West Georgia Woman Magazine November 2016 by West Georgia Woman Magazine/Angel Media, LLC

Woman

Complimentary

November 2016

West Georgia TM

Anniversary Issue Celebrating One Year In West Georgia

This publication is dedicated in loving memory of

Tristan Alexander Brooks

May 15, 1993 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; September 1 7, 2015

He will remain forever in our hearts ...

Happy Thanksgiving From Our Family To Yours 100 PROFESSIONAL PARK, STE. 204, CARROLLTON 4

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inside... 12

Turning The Page

Obesity And Type 2 Diabetes Among Women

How Smart Is Your Home?

Abandoning Tradition

Ovarian Cancer: The Silent Killer

Local Happenings

Does He Deplete You?

In Every Issue:

Daily Fare

Womentality

Celebrate Her Success

Kidz Korner

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Happy Anniversary, West Georgia Woman! Time flies by, doesn't it? I can't believe it has been one year since we published our very first West Georgia Woman magazine! When I first began my journey with West Georgia Woman, I was full of optimism and hope that I would be able to somehow make the world, at least our little world in West Georgia, a better place for women. I wanted to create an outlet that would encourage others, share our hopes and dreams of the future, and at the same time share the real stuff of life. Our tragedies and sadness, our struggles that we all face on a daily basis, some more than others, our courageous and inspiring moments, all of us bound together within the same thread of humanity, forever connected in some way, even if sometimes on very different levels. I am truly humbled and honored that you have allowed me and my staff to be a part of your lives every month for the past year. I want to thank all of you, from the bottom of my heart, for your letters, emails, cards and phone calls you have sent us that have been filled with story suggestions, encouragement, love and kindness. Although I read every one of your letters and messages, sometimes I cannot respond as quickly as I would like, and I appreciate your patience so very much. Just know that you are very important to us, and we appreciate all of the positive feedback you have given us. It is my hope that by sharing these stories of amazing West Georgia women, we have made an impact your lives. I know all of you have impacted our lives in a very meaningful way. Of course, I have to thank our wonderful supporters, our advertisers. Thank you for believing in me and in West Georgia Woman magazine. I can never express in words how much your support has meant to me over the last year. We would never be able to provide this beautiful publication to the women of West Georgia every month without you! In This Issue I experienced some trepidation regarding what I should put on the cover of our anniversary issue. I initially created the copy on the next page to place on the cover, but eventually made the decision to place the West Georgia Woman magazine staff alone. As women in this world, it is very difficult to accept praise for a job well done, and we are often taught at a young age to downplay our accomplishments. After much consideration, I knew I had to put our staff on the cover. These ladies have put their heart and souls into this publication and deserve to be recognized for their valuable contribution. This is the most amazing team to work with, and I am so very proud of what we have accomplished over the last year. I am extremely lucky to be able to work with these remarkable women every day! Thank you for reading! I wish each and every one of you a wonderful Thanksgiving, and we look forward to being a part of your lives for many years to come. Happy Thanksgiving!

Publisher

Woman Woman Woman Woman West Georgia

West Georgia

A Taste of Reality

Cassie Wright

West Georgia

Women to the Rescue

Caterer takes her success to the small screen

Fifteen Ways To Love Yoursel

A survivor's story

Cross Country and Across Town

Holiday Recipes ‘Yule’ Love

Grace Clements is in it to win it

Holiday Pets Keeping them

Unstoppable Hearts

Ellen Wynn McBrayer refuses to give up

safe and happy

Woman

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March 2016

West Georgia

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Find the hidden dangers

big impact

November 2016

Woman

West Georgia

Spring Planting

Woman

June 2016

A Day In The Life Of A Female Farmer

Anniversary Issue

July Cosper Nicholas Enriching

Minds And Bodies In West Georgia

Sydney Dailey Going For The

Goal

Fun Activities Close to Home

West Georgia

Know The Warning Signs

Family Time

Complimentary

West Georgia

Stroke

West Georgia

Karen Vance Facing the Music

Female Presidents Making an Impact

Woman

April 2016

How to Cope

Carrollton Dawnbreakers Rotary Club

May 2016

She’s All Heart

Complimentary

Stressed Out?

Rebuilding Lives in West Georgia and Beyond

Complimentary

What You Should Do Now

Paula Layton

Safe at Home

Involved & Kathryn Inspiring Teen Dating Violence Dr. McFarland Civic club makes Keep your kids safe

Rosie Holley Spreading Hope Throughout West Georgia

Show Dad Some Father's Day

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July 2016

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August 2016 Complimentary

West Georgia

Complimentary September 2016

West Georgia

October 20

West Georgia

TM TM

Social Skills

Lessons Your Children Need To Know

Not Just Horsin' Around At

Chase Meadow Lane Farm

Anne C. Richards, Ed.D. Changing Lives In West Georgia For Over 40 Years

THE

Pat Dickson Leaning On Faith

MANISSUE

The Faces Explore Softer Of TheSide Of Suicide Shot Spot A LovingIt's So Much More Than A

Kathy Yates

Making Every Day Count

Finding our voice. Knowing our value. Making a difference. TM

West Georgia Woman is a voice for and about the women who live and work in West Georgia. Our mission is to engage, inspire, and cultivate a cohesive community for all women in West Georgia by sharing our hopes, our dreams and our lives. This magazine would not be possible without the inclusion of our advertisers. Please be sure to show your support by doing business with these VIP’s (very important partners) so we will be able to continue to share with you our stories about amazing West Georgia Women! Please be sure to tell them we sent you! Inspiring women wanted. Do you know an interesting woman who should be on the cover of West Georgia Woman? Is there a special project or organization you would like us to feature in our magazine? Let us know! Email your suggestions to: features@westgeorgiawoman.com Share your special events. Send your upcoming events to: calendar@westgeorgiawoman.com Send us your photos! We welcome your local event and wedding photos.

We welcome your comments and suggestions.

Woman

Volume 2 • Issue 1 November 2016

Facebook.com/@WestGaWoman

Publisher/Editor

Angela Dailey angela@westgeorgiawoman.com

Copy Editor Editorial Contributor

@WestGAWoman

Shala Hainer shala@westgeorgiawoman.com

Instagram.com/westgawoman

Photographer for cover and Page 8

Need a copy? Get yours at Kroger, Publix, Southern Home and Ranch, Food Depot (Maple Street), Palladino’s Pizza and A+ Consignment in Carrollton. Publix at Mirror Lake and Piggly Wiggly in Bowdon as well as over 500 grocery stores, convenience stores, other retail locations and medical offices throughout West Georgia! Need to advertise? Email sales@westgeorgiawoman.com

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West Georgia

Mail correspondence to: West Georgia Woman P.O. Box 2782 Carrollton, GA 30112

Keith May

Photographer for Pages 2 & 3 Rachel Dobson

Editorial Contributors

Charlene Brooks, Julie Culpepper, Sydney Dailey, Cheryl A. Francis, L.P.C., Habiba N. Shaw, M.S., Ed.D., and Dr. Stanfill Thomas

Advertising Sales Executive Rosa Reyes rosa@westgeorgiawoman.com

Angela Brooks Dailey, publisher of West Georgia Woman magazine, has lived in West Georgia most of her life and has a deep love and appreciation for the area. She received her B.B.A in management from The University of West Georgia in Carrollton, Ga., and is a Civil and Domestic Relations mediator and arbitrator registered with the Georgia Office of Dispute Resolution. She lives in Carrollton, and has two wonderful children, Zachary and Sydney Dailey. Angela enjoys reading, spending time with her children and extended family and loves to watch Sydney play soccer.

Turning

Photos By Keith May

the Page

Giving Thanks for One Year of Serving West Georgia Women By Shala Hainer

Women have reinvented themselves for generations. We once were thought of as property, and not worth educating. At one point, women were considered ideal homemakers, but nothing more. Although being a homemaker is a noble and extremely difficult job, it should be a choice, and not your only option. Women eventually reinvented the entire notion of their worth. They found careers and fulfillment outside of their families – in fact, having a family became more of a choice than an expectation. In 1972, women represented about 38 percent of the workforce in the U.S., but in 2014, that number had risen to 47 percent, according to the Department for Professional Employees. The ladies who have poured themselves into West Georgia Woman magazine for the last year all have something in common: they have reinvented themselves not just as women, but by changing careers and life focus mid-stream. They used their resiliency and determination to start something new, and they want you to know that anything is possible. “Women are powerful, and that’s the whole point behind this magazine,” says Publisher Angela Dailey. “When we have to make our career choice, usually in our late teens or early 20s, we don’t really know what we want to be when we grow up. Instead of staying in a job that doesn’t fit you as you get older, know that you can do anything you want, no matter how old you are.”

The Beginning Each of the ladies who contribute consistently Page 12: The West Georgia Woman magazine Staff. Back from left: Julie Culpepper, Angela Dailey, Sydney Dailey and Kin Brooks. Front from left: Charlene Brooks, Shala Hainer and Michelle Horsley.

to West Georgia Woman came from very different backgrounds. Angela started out as a bank teller, Charlene Brooks was a secretary, Shala Hainer was a newspaper copy editor, Michelle Horsley was a stayat-home mom and Julie Culpepper was an assistant manager for TJ Maxx. Their paths continued to change. Angela stayed in banking, working her way up to branch manager. Julie and Charlene decided to stay home with their families, and Shala continued in the communications field, moving from newspapers to nonprofits. But as their lives changed – children got older and their interests shifted – they knew they needed to find fulfillment through their work. They began to think about their passions and how to capitalize on them. For one of the ladies, though, the change wasn’t her choice. “I lost my job in banking in May 2012, through no fault of my own, because of some very angry and vindictive women, which included a few of the women I managed and my new female supervisor who was based in Douglasville, Ga.,” explains Angela, who was 38 at the time. "I received a promotion and a raise in December, then less than three months later I was placed on a performance improvement plan due to fabricated (and unsubstantiated) claims of mistreatment from a few women who worked directly under me." Angela can only guess why a few of those who worked for her and her supervisor tried to destroy her life. "I really have no idea why they went to such great lengths to hurt me and, as a result, hurt my children. I know I wasn't perfect, and I had to make sure disciplinary action was taken when policy violations occurred, but every manager has to do those tough things. The truth is, I genuinely cared about those women who eventually turned against me. It was quite bizarre, the stories they fabricated

Photo by Rachel Dobson

to end my career in banking." “Even though it took two more months of me being transferred and basically enduring a living hell every day, my career really ended in a split second on the day I received the performance improvement plan. So I went from being a loyal employee for 15 years with no written or verbal disciplinary actions against me in my entire career except one warning when I was out of balance as a teller in my early 20s, to receiving employee complaints and two customer (friends of those same employees) complaints all in the same time frame. It was so clear to me that I was being railroaded, and I was shocked and astounded that human resources didn't investigate or try to disprove what was happening; she just took my supervisor's word for it. A couple of the women who worked directly under me tried to tell them the things the others were saying about me were not true, but it didn't matter." Because Angela was a divorced mother of two children, she couldn't afford to go down without a

fight. She had to try to save her job and her career for her children's sake. "I went through the chain of command to the regional community executive who was based in Carrollton, Ga., for help," she shares. "I asked him to pull the video at the branch to prove the employees' allegations weren’t true, and asked him to talk to numerous people I had managed at different locations over the years to find out what their experiences were as my subordinates, but he told me he supported my supervisor and did nothing to help me." The next two months were some of the hardest months Angela says she had to endure in her lifetime. “Every day I would cry driving to and from work for those two months," she shares. "I was a single parent of two children and I could not afford to quit and walk away from my career, even though I wanted to leave very badly. I tried to find work elsewhere, but the economy was terrible during that time. I knew I would need unemployment income to keep us going until I could find something else, so I endured the horrendous treatment for as long as I could. “The day before I lost my job, I told my supervisor I knew what she was doing (trying to force me to resign by making my work days miserable, and she had come to visit me that day with yet another fabricated 'customer complaint,' imagine that), and I told her I couldn't take the bullying she was subjecting me to anymore. "She and the regional community executive, the same one who refused to investigate or help me, came to my office the next afternoon while the bank was still open. I actually felt a sense of relief along with the dread of what I knew was coming, because I knew when they walked in that I would finally be free of the torment I had endured during those really long two months. "They walked in my office, and the regional community executive said to me ‘Get up, get your stuff and get out.’ He really said those words to me, verbatim. Sometimes, when I think back on his words that day, it still surprises me that anyone has that capacity to be so cruel to others. I'll never forget that smug look on my supervisor's face, though. They watched me pack my belongings, still being extremely rude with the community executive saying, ‘Don’t forget to give me your credit card and your keys,’ repeatedly, as if I were going to steal something, and telling me to hurry up and pack over and over again." “The entire time he was being so cruel to me I

WE WISH YOU

Seasons Greetings and a Happy New Year.

took the high road and remained calm and polite. I shared my passwords with them so they could get into my computer and told them about loan closings I had scheduled, etc. I refused to cry in front of them. I wasn't going to give them the satisfaction of seeing me cry. Then they escorted me out in front of my customers and employees, and shoved my things in the back of my car. After I got in my car and left the tears flowed and didn't stop for about two weeks. "I honestly consider what the collective group of them did to me from beginning to end as a series of violent rapes, metaphorically speaking. My dear friend Dr. Fred Richards actually came up with that metaphor after I shared my story with him, and I agree. They were similar to a pack of wolves, getting more and more frenzied and out for blood as they closed in for the kill, and they seemed to take great delight in destroying my career and, the way I felt at the time, my life. I certainly didn’t deserve the appalling and extremely bizarre experience I had to endure there from some of my subordinates, my supervisor, human resources and upper management. No one deserves that type of

inhumane and cruel treatment from an employer, and I vowed to never again be in a position where I needed a job so desperately that I couldn't leave on my own terms. “Before this happened to me, I always believed in my heart that corporations had their employees’ backs as long as they were good, solid highperforming employees," she relates. "Now I know that even good employees who have done nothing wrong can be discarded quite easily if a company has the wrong people in authoritative positions who are inclined to behave poorly and unethically. "I was a very good employee and manager, and I’m proud of the job I did. I was able to leave with my head held high knowing that I did the very best that I could for them every day, even though I was so horribly victimized during those last two months."

Finding New Paths Angela sent out hundreds of resumés during the nine months she was out of work, and attended training to become a civil and domestic relations mediator and arbitrator for the state of Georgia.

Angela and Shala have been great friends since they met in fifth grade at the age of 10.

That in itself did not bring in enough income for her and her children, and she finally found a position selling advertising. “I took the first job that I was offered making half of what I had made as a bank manager, but it was a job,” she says. “This was where I began to work in advertising, and I worked there for almost two years. During those two years, I frequently thought about how there were no publications in West Georgia that were specifically of interest to women. Most were owned, edited or published by men, and none appealed to me as a woman. It was very important to me to create something that helped people as well. “Advertising is often about how much money can be made, not how can we make a difference in people’s lives and help one another. I knew it would have to be a publication that really helped others, especially women in West Georgia. I toyed Photo by Rob Hainer around with the idea and spoke with Shala, Shala Hainer, West Georgia Woman magazine's copy editor and who is our copy editor and contributing contributing writer, is not only a dedicated and loyal friend to Angela, she is a dedicated, award-winning full-time Realtor when she's not correcting writer for West Georgia Woman, several times over those two years about creating Angela's grammar. Shala had a background in real estate from her a magazine for women. I left my job in time spent at the Greater Atlanta Home Builders advertising in January to work in mediation again, Association, where part of her job included and I began the planning stages of the magazine. managing the real estate council and teaching In July 2015, I quit my day job and began really continuing education classes to agents. She had focusing on creating what would become West always had a passion for real estate, and she was no Georgia Woman magazine. I knew it was now or never. I had to try it. Here we are, one year later, and longer afraid of the unknown. “The biggest obstacle was a lack of income,” it has surpassed all of my expectations. I am really she says. “When you're studying for the real estate proud of the quality product that we produce for exam and searching for your first clients, you have our readers and our advertisers every month. It's so much work, but the rewards of helping these women no income coming in. Thankfully, my husband was willing to cut some corners to make it possible for us in our community, and helping our advertisers get to live on just his income for those difficult months. new clients from the magazine, are well worth it.” It's also hard to find childcare. With young children, Although Shala wasn’t forced out of a position, including one who stays home with me, it's hard to at age 41, she saw a disturbing trend in the juggle times to network and show houses. However, communications field and knew she had to shift her I have family who helps and have spent the past few career as well if she planned to be successful. “I months growing my babysitting base so I have more knew the communications industry was changing,” flexibility. Sometimes, the kids just tag along with she relates. “Newspapers are closing all over me – with clients who don't mind, of course.” the country, and people prefer to get their news Julie moved from stay-at-home mom to office from television or online, for the most part. Many organizations strayed away from newsletters, instead manager and bookkeeper for C&H body shop in 2005, and stayed through 2012. “I went to night sending information through blast emails. Although school for culinary during that time as well and there is still a strong need for communications received my diploma as a chef,” she says. “I decided professionals, the industry is very different than the to get certified as a chef because I had been doing one I was comfortable with. I knew there had to be small-time catering all along the way from age 16 something else I could do that helped me focus on to 45 when I graduated. I wanted to lend more my passions.”

who were still living at home at the time, returning to school was challenging, to say the least,” she explains. “However, choosing to return to school as a full-time student made it even more challenging. I had to work twice as hard to stay ahead of the game, balancing my home life, family schedules and appointments and still meeting the demands of each class. I often envied my (younger) college peers for having nothing but time and opportunity to do all the things I struggled to achieve, but I am grateful, and if given the choice to do my life over, I wouldn't change a thing.”

Planning for Change

Julie Culpepper, West Georgia Woman magazine's chef, shares delicious recipes for our readers every month in the "Daily Fare" section of the magazine.

professionalism and authenticity to the work I had been doing all along.” Trying to reinvent yourself isn’t always easy, and Julie realized that from the beginning. “It was very difficult to juggle working and going to school while trying very hard to keep my family first and staying very involved with my children's lives,” she says. “Alan has always supported me 100 percent in whatever I wanted to do. My kids have always been very understanding, too.” When Michelle’s oldest child, now 27, graduated high school, she started thinking about re-entering the work force after many years working as a stay-at-home mom. “As my children got older, and the reality set in that they'd soon become independent, I began to consider the next phase in my life and where that might lead,” she says. “I was 42 when I decided that I would pursue my passion and further my education. I attended the Art Institute for Photographic Imaging and Commercial Photography.” Michelle relates that although going back to school while still managing her children and the house was tough, but her family’s support helped her through it. “Being the mother of three children

With any major life transition, some preparation is key. Even if you want to move quickly, spending at least a little time getting some finances in order can make all the difference in your success. When Charlene wanted to change from full-time worker to homemaker, she chose to make some smart investments with the money she had. Michelle and Shala had their husband’s income to live on during their transitions. Angela and Julie continued to work full-time and part-time jobs while they prepared for their next adventures.

Michelle Horsley, West Georgia Woman magazine's food photographer, takes the beautiful photos of Julie's recipes every month in the "Daily Fare" section of the magazine.

They all had family and friends who offered encouragement and support throughout the process. Angela wasn’t just changing careers; she was getting an entire, brand-new magazine off the ground. “When I decided to quit my job and work on creating West Georgia Woman, some of my friends told me I was crazy," she laughs, "But I knew I had to try it no matter what people thought. Some of my friends didn't believe in me and they didn't think I would do this. Before I quit my day job, I talked with both of my children, Zachary and Sydney, and my fiancé Dan, and told them what I would like to do, but only if they were O.K. with it. I told them that at least I could try this, and if I failed the worst that could happen is I would have to get a full-time job again. They were so supportive of my dream to do this, so were my parents, my brother William, my friend Eileen Burton and of course, Dr. Fred Richards and Shala had my back from the beginning.” Shala says it was family support, and sometimes their pushiness, that helped keep her focused. “My family was amazingly supportive,” she relates. “They knew I had a love for real estate. Even when I was feeling like I would never find my first client, I received constant pep talks – my sister-in-law Tanya likes to take credit for my success because she kept telling me it would happen and to stop whining.”

From left: Angela's parents, Kin and Charlene Brooks, Sydney and Angela.

Michelle. “Photography doesn't feel so much like work as it does just being creative. It almost seems wrong to me to get paid to do something I love.” Angela agrees that doing something you love is essential. “My life has changed tremendously since the inception of West Georgia Woman magazine,” she relates. “I really love that I'm helping other women by featuring them in the magazine. I want women here in West Georgia to know that I am here for them, and I want to set a positive example for all women and girls so they will know that we don't have to tear each other down to build ourselves up.” Shala explains that finding a fulfilling career has helped her shift some priorities and discover what’s The Impact of Change truly meaningful. “I am so much more satisfied with my career now than I've ever been,” she says. Finding the path that brings you joy as a mature “I have strong support from my broker and the adult can change your entire outlook. All the company staff, and it's made all the difference in my challenges and sacrifices become worth it when you success. Because I look forward to work, I find myself can look forward to the work you do each day. being more patient with my children and more “Because I choose to do freelance photography, willing to set priorities – if the house is dirty because I'm able to let my creativity flow, and being I spent six hours looking at houses with a client productive becomes a release for me,” explains rather than staying home and cleaning, the world isn't going to come to an end.” The ladies offer advice to other women who are working in fields that no longer bring them joy. “Follow your heart,” says Charlene. “Focus on the reward, and not just the work,” Shala advises. “If you are passionate about what you do, you will find a way to push through adversity and make it a reality. When we are young, it's impossible to know what kind of people we will be when we're older, yet Angela's son Zachary Dailey, Angela and her daughter Sydney Dailey

Pediatric, Hand & Speech Therapy Charlene Brooks, West Georgia Woman magazine's contributing writer and distributor, with her husband Kin Brooks, also a West Georgia Woman magazine distributor.

Sydney Dailey, Angela's 16-year-old daughter, contributes much of her time and energy to West Georgia Woman magazine. Sydney helps Angela distribute the magazine when she isn't in school or playing soccer, visits clients with Angela and is a regular contributor to the "Kidz Korner" section of the magazine.

that's when we have to make our life decision about a career. Don't beat yourself up about choosing a career you ended up not liking as much as you hoped. Instead, embrace what you love.” Michelle agrees. “My mother used to tell me, ‘If you do something you love, you'll never have to “work” a day in your life,’” she explains. “While it's not always fun and games, and stress IS a major component of who I am, I understand what she meant by that statement.” Julie shares the best advice she was given. “Any education is never a waste,” she says. “I should fill my wagon and pull whatever I needed from it along the journey. Even if I never used my education for a career, the knowledge and experience of it was never a waste of time.” Angela says you should always remember those people who help you make it possible. “Our advertisers invest their hard-earned dollars in this publication every month so we can provide this valuable resource to the women in our communities in West Georgia,” she relates. “Without them, there would be no West Georgia Woman magazine. I will be forever grateful to each and every one of our valuable advertisers for helping me make this publication possible, by offering me sound advice and story suggestions and for continuing to provide the funds that make West Georgia Woman a reality every month.” WGW

Why Is Contributing To West Georgia Woman Magazine Important To You?

Shala: I feel strongly that the women of West Georgia need a voice. There are many brilliant, powerful and influential women in our community, and most of them fly below everyone's radar. West Georgia Woman tells their stories, and helps other women understand not only that they're not alone in their struggles, but that struggles make you stronger and you can come out whole on the other side. We are all in this world together, but it's hard to feel that way unless there is something that helps create that bond the way this magazine does.

Photo by Rob Hainer

Charlene: I love contributing to West Georgia Woman because it is a wonderful, informative magazineÂ that celebrates inspirational stories about women and their struggles and triumphs. The articles are factbased and helpful for everyone who reads them. I think West Georgia Woman has well-rounded content for each reader to enjoy, and I am proud to be a part of it.

Julie: I love to share something good with people that will enhance their lives in some way, either strengthening their health, happiness or quality of life. West Georgia Woman magazine has given me an easy way to reach many people in order to accomplish that goal.

Michelle: Being a part of West Georgia Woman magazine affords me the opportunity to be creative and also share my art with my community. It has also opened new doors and new friendships for me. Being a contributor to the magazine is, in part, like working with an extended family. The staff there, truly are "Some Kinda Special!â&#x20AC;?

Angela: By supporting each other, our nonprofits, our organizations that are making a difference, our small businesses and by sharing our struggles, successes, hopes and dreams, we can break down those barriers and the stereotypes that we have created among women. I wanted to take my situation and what happened to me, where I lost a career because other women decided I should, and use it for good. I want to make a difference in women and young girls' lives.

How Smart

Is Your Home?

Tech gadgets make life easier, but do they help with resale value?

arage doors that open as you approach without needing a remote. Doorbells that let you see who’s outside before you walk to the door. Refrigerators that create grocery lists for you. Sound like the Jetsons? It’s not. It could actually be your home, if tech gadgets are your thing. High-tech features in real estate aren’t new, but what’s bringing them to the forefront now is recent advances in affordability. Many gadgets that used to appear only in “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous” are now available at decent prices. The trick to picking smart-home technology is to find the pieces that make sense for the most people, not just for you. Once installed, some systems are costly to remove or require drywall and electrical system repair. If you choose wisely, the home gadgets can help you sell your home, but if you go a

By: Shala Hainer

little crazy with the technology, you could scare away the not-so-technological crowd of buyers. When you’re considering investing in smart-home technology, think accessibility. What makes life run smoother and easier without needing a degree in programming? Those gadgets tend to make the best options for your home if you intend to sell some day because they appeal to a broad buyer base. Too much technology might seem overwhelming to those not as tech-savvy as you. One quick note – even if you invest a ton of money in technology, don’t expect it to increase the value of your home. Some buyers might feel the same thrill as you do when they watch their doors unlock just because they got close to it with their smartphones, but they aren’t likely to pay too much extra for it.

Doors

One technology option that appeals to most is Bluetooth door locks. Many of these offer several ways to open them, such as the old-school key option, a coded key pad, a fingerprint scanner and a smartphone app. With the app, you can typically set it up to open the locks automatically if you get close, or to require you to manually press a button on the app. When tied into your smart security system, activating the lock can trigger the security cameras to send you a photo or video to your phone – a handy feature if you have teens coming home from school if you’re at work. New garage door technology is moving toward working the same way. Most still require you to press

a button on your smartphone app to open the door, but they are moving toward opening automatically as you get close with your phone. Smart doorbells often integrate with your home security system, and many feed into an app on your smartphone. When someone rings the bell, you get a notification on your phone as well as live video of the person. The doorbells usually have speakers and microphones so you can talk to the person at the door if you want, asking them what they need or telling them to come back later. In addition to letting you see who is at your door, the fact that you can speak to them through the doorbell adds a layer of security – if it’s someone up to no good who is checking to see if you’re home, hearing your voice is likely to deter them from entering.

town. The Nest offers additional options, such as smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, that tie in with your existing system. They help your system detect heat, humidity and occupancy so the system can learn your habits and needs better.

Lights While lights on timers aren’t new, smart lights are

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Wart?............................. $40 Skin Tag? ...................... $20 Thermostats The most popular smart thermostat system currently is the Nest, but there are several other options available. These allow you to program variable temperatures at different times – like if you want it to be colder when you’re sleeping – but many give you the ability to change the temperature with your smartphone. Did your parents just call and say they are coming over for dinner, and you know your mom gets cold easily? Log into the app from wherever you are and turn up the temperature before you even get home. Most systems have alerts set up as well, such as ones that warn you if the temperature gets low enough inside the home that pipes might burst – especially handy if you’re out of

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the newest trend. Some are smart sockets that work with any bulb, and others are smart bulbs that fit into any standard socket. These offer a new level of excitement over the basic turn on and turn off. With multiple bulbs throughout the house, you can program them to turn on and off in a series, making it appear as if someone is home when you’re out of town. You can also schedule them to dim or become brighter, such as if you want to wake your kids slowly by easing on their lights in the morning. In addition, many offer different color options, letting you create your own light show or set the mood for a quiet evening at home. They also let you activate the lights from your smartphone wherever you are, giving you total control at home or when you’re out. Some are actually designed to give off heat when synced with your smart thermostat to help warm the room and save on your heating bill.

Other Fun Options Although not mainstream, several options might feed your hunger for technology. Smart shades allow you to open and close them from your phone, or you can program them on a schedule. Many cable providers offer remote apps that let you change the channel from wherever you are – although they are designed to let you use your phone while you’re watching TV, it makes for some secret fun when you know your spouse is home alone and wondering why the channel keeps changing.

High-tech refrigerators let you enter your grocery list on a touch screen and access the list from your phone from the store. Some even have cameras inside so you can see what’s in your fridge while you’re shopping – never buy an extra gallon of milk again! Belkin has a slow cooker that connects to Wi-Fi so you can change the settings while away – if your chicken only needs to cook for four hours, you can turn it on while you’re at work instead of letting it sit in the cooker for the entire day. A smart plug lets you turn nearly any device into a smart one. It lets you turn devices on and off or set them up on a schedule, and it communicates with other technology such as smart thermostat systems. Now you never have to worry whether you left the curling iron plugged in, and this time of year, you can turn on your Christmas lights from wherever you are. WGW

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Ovarian Cancer

The Silent 26

Killer

varian cancer is the deadliest type of gynecologic cancer. Part of the reason this cancer claims so many lives is that it often is not diagnosed until it has reached an advanced stage. There is also no current screening method to detect ovarian cancer. “It’s a very difficult cancer to detect, because even once it does begin to cause symptoms, those symptoms can often be attributed to other health problems,” said Tiffany Stanfill Thomas, MD, an obstetrics and gynecology specialist with Tanner Healthcare for Women, a Tanner Medical Group practice in Villa Rica. “That’s why it’s so important for women to know their risk factors, know the symptoms and be advocates for their own health. They may need to ask their healthcare providers, ‘Could this be ovarian cancer?’”

Know the Risk Factors The exact causes of ovarian cancer are unknown, but the latest clinical research suggests two factors play the largest role: • Age – Being middle-aged or older increases the odds of developing ovarian cancer. The

risk is highest after age 63. Ovarian cancer will effect one in 70 women in their lifetimes. • Family history – A woman may be at risk if she has a first-degree relative – such as a daughter, sister or mother – who has had ovarian cancer. Her risk is particularly high if two or more first-degree relatives have had this cancer. A history of the disease in other close family members – such as aunts or grandmothers on either the mother’s or father’s side – is also linked to a higher-than-average risk.

using hormone replacement therapy after menopause may slightly raise the risk of some types of ovarian cancer. • Talcum powder – In some studies, use of talcum powder in feminine hygiene products or contraceptives has been linked to ovarian cancer. However, the overall increase in risk is minimal and this issue is still being explored.

Warning Signs

“A family history of breast or colon cancer also has been associated with an increased risk of ovarian cancer,” said Dr. Stanfill Thomas. Women who have a strong family history of breast cancer sometimes choose to be tested for the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes, which are linked to a high risk of breast cancer. Being a carrier of either one of these genes also is associated with an increased risk of ovarian cancer.

Other risk factors include:

• Personal history – Women who have had colon or breast cancer may face a higher risk for ovarian cancer than those who have not had either of these other cancers. • Pregnancy – Women who have never given birth have a higher risk than women who have. In fact, the more children women have had, the less apt they are to get ovarian cancer. • Medications – According to some evidence,

Ovarian cancer is often called the “silent killer” because symptoms don’t appear until it’s too late. “The truth is, ovarian cancer does have warning signs even in the earliest stages, but those warning signs are so subtle that they can be attributed to other conditions that tend to occur more frequently, like irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS,” said Dr. Stanfill Thomas. Only about one-fifth of ovarian cancer cases are identified in the initial stages, when treatment is most successful. If detected early, however, ovarian cancer is treatable. But symptoms often are vague and may not show up until later stages of the cancer.

Talk with your doctor if you notice these symptoms. “We have several methods we can use to diagnose or rule out cancer,” said Dr. Stanfill Thomas. “A patient may need an ultrasound or CT scan, blood tests, a biopsy or a pelvic exam – or any combination of those. But if these symptoms manifest, you should see a physician, and you should ask if they could be caused by ovarian cancer.” WGW

Easy-to-overlook warning signs may include: • Stomach discomfort, such as indigestion, nausea, swelling or cramps • Diarrhea, constipation or frequent urination • Decreased appetite • Feeling full after even a light meal • Unexplained weight gain or weight loss • Abnormal vaginal bleeding • Pain during intercourse • Fatigue • Backache

Dr. Stanfill Thomas earned her medical degree from Mercer University School of Medicine in Macon, and completed her residency in obstetrics and gynecology at the Medical Center of Central Georgia in Macon. She practices with Tanner Healthcare for Women, a Tanner Medical Group practice in Villa Rica. More information is available online at www.TannerHealthcareForWomen.org.

West Georgia Ambulance Encourages all WOMEN to INVEST IN YOURSELVES! For the greatest return on your time and money, invest in yourself. • • • • • • •

Check your blood pressure at the local drugstore. Scan the paper for free health screenings in your area. Get your yearly check up and mammogram. Add drinking water to your daily routine. Park farther out from the store and walk. Incorporate a meatless Monday and eat your veggies! No one is worth more than you. When you are at your best, then you can be better for those around you.

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770.832.9689 29

Does He

Deplete Complete

You?

re you in a toxic relationship? How do you know? Have you been with your partner a very long time and are miserable but you don't feel like you can leave him? Then every time you do get the courage to leave, he just sucks you right back in with empty promises that things will be better? Unfortunately, you may be involved with a Narcissist. At its core, Narcissism is a mere disguise, a way to hide a deep-seated sense of shame about oneself. Many Narcissists suffered great trauma during their early years, and having an inflated sense of self is the only way they can cope with everyday life and relationships. Here are a few warning signs you may be involved in a toxic relationship with a Narcissist.

1. He flips out over any perceived criticism. He believes in his own twisted mind that he is above reproach. He can do anything, say anything or be anything he wants and no one should ever question him or his motives. So what if he did something you don't like?

He's entitled, and you better not make the mistake of saying he did something wrong. 2. He has a false sense of entitlement. This man is so out of touch with reality and the feelings of others that he will go above and beyond to have his own needs met, regardless of the hurt or pain he causes others. You catch him looking at porn on the day of your

Jessica Simpson Nude

beloved grandmother's funeral? So what, he has needs to fulfill and you dare not challenge him and his needs. 3. Appearances are HUGE to him. He cannot stand to be looked upon in a bad light. He comes across as humble, kind and helpful in the public eye, but beware of the evil that lurks within. Only those who truly know him (date him, marry him, live with him, his children) know that he is really capable of tearing your world apart and then stomping all over you in the process. He thrives on the terror, anxiety and stress that he creates in those closest to him. This man will make every effort he can to come out smelling like a rose when the you know what hits the fan. You break up with him? You're the one with the problem, and he won't have any qualms about making you look like the bad guy through character assassination, to make himself look like the poor pitiful fallen hero. 4. He's hot and cold. He exerts his control over you by "punishing" you when you have done wrong. The slightest infraction and there will be hell to pay. He will ignore you. He will not speak to you for days. He will withhold intimacy from you. Then, after he has decided you have been thoroughly and properly punished, he will snuggle

up to you and pretend like nothing ever happened. You must be the crazy one because nothing ever happened in his mind. And in his mind this is completely true, because only his feelings count, not yours. Hence the name, Narcissist. 5. He lacks empathy for others. Narcissists do not consider others thoughts, feelings or perceptions. Nor do they care about the pain they often inflict upon others. Their thoughts and feelings are the only things that matter in their world, so don't expect him to care in the least how you feel about anything. Never expect a Narcissist to validate, listen to, support or understand you. It simply will not happen. Ever. Keep in mind how crafty Narcissists can be, though. They are very adept at picking up on social cues and will often "fake" empathy when necessary, only so they can be perceived as being "normal." Usually, the only time they will fake empathy

Diagnosis: Narcissist 31

is with the hopes of receiving something in return. 6. He's envious of others or believes others are, or should be, envious of him. He always wants what other people have, whether it be material objects, admiration, status or fame and notoriety. He brags excessively about places he gets to go and things he is able to buy and do that others can't afford. He is obsessed with famous people and their lifestyles, and becomes preoccupied with unrealistic fantasies of power, success, beauty, brilliance and what he considers an ideal relationship, (one where all of his needs are met, and his partner is there to cater only to him and his needs, while completely ignoring her own.) He finds it difficult to be happy for others when they are successful, unless it is someone close to him where he can bask in their glory. 7. He makes friends with people who have something he wants. Narcissists specialize

in fostering relationships with people who have something they really want. He stacks these people up like pawns in his mind, and when he needs something from them, he calls them up and expects them to deliver immediately. He especially tries to foster relationships with people who can also offer him some type of "high-profile status." For example, he might befriend the guy who has box seats at the Georgia Dome, or the woman who has connections with a famous actor is very appealing to the Narcissist. He will develop these relationships in the hopes that their power or status will trickle down and he might have a bone or two thrown at him: an invite to a celebrity party or a pair of tickets to the game. Of course, he'll brag excessively to co-workers and family members and through social media before, during and after the event, to make sure everyone knows how important he is. Narcissists have very few, if any, real friendships. Other, lesser, human beings are here on earth only to provide a service to or for the Narcissist. He could never be true and real friends with anyone because they will always disappoint him when they are unable, or unwilling, to cater to his every need or whim. His entire world revolves around him and him alone. 8. He keeps a tally of all the mistakes you've made throughout your relationship. A Narcissist never forgets anything you've ever done to offend him in your relationship. If he runs out of things to say about your poor behavior over the years, then he will move on to throw your horrible parenting or housekeeping skills in your face, or he will give you a long list of why he believes you are a horrible person. Then he will move on to attack your family and friends, and your relationships with them. In spite of his many flaws, a Narcissist will never admit he is less than perfect, so he will attack you and your character to feel better about himself. A Narcissist will reduce your self esteem to an all-time low because he knows that's the only way you will stay with him. The more you feel badly about yourself, the better. 9. He blame shifts. This is a classic tool of Narcissists. Normal human beings admit when they are wrong, will apologize and try to correct their mistakes. Not a Narcissist. He refuses to be held accountable for anything. Instead of admitting to his bad behavior

Hi my name is (insert jerk's name here)

and his mistakes, he will immediately flip the switch and throw the blame on to others. He will say things such as "Because you treated me this way I did this or that," or "It is your bad behavior that has caused me to [drink, cheat, view porn, be abusive, shut down or withhold intimacy.] If you would only straighten up and act right, things would be better." 10. He will never change. Ever. Narcissists usually never change their behavior. Many women find themselves feeling trapped in relationships with Narcissists because they have suffered some sort of serious emotional injuries early in life, which makes them easy prey for a Narcissist. Often they have codependent behaviors, which manifest in roles of excessive care-taking and preoccupation of things or people outside themselves, for example, depending on others for validation of their own self-worth. Narcissists feed off of these people to receive their narcissistic supply, and it is extremely difficult to break

free of him if you have these co-dependent tendencies. If you will pay attention and listen to your gut feelings, often there are numerous red flags that can be spotted in the beginning of a relationship with a Narcissist. If you notice any of these signs in a potential partner, walk away immediately and do not look back. Watch for the following red flags that suggest you

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may be beginning a relationship with a Narcissist. • Saying the words "I love you," too quickly. • Wanting you to commit to a serious relationship too soon. • Sweeps you off of your feet. • Showers you with expensive gifts or takes you on expensive dates in the beginning of the dating relationship. • Cannot stand to be away from you, treats you as if you're a princess on a pedestal, describes you as his "soul mate." • Character assassinates ex-girlfriends or ex-wife and blames the ending of those relationships on her, and does not take responsibility for any problems in prior relationships. (If only she had improved her behavior, things would have been fine.) • Says you are everything he's always wanted in a woman, where have you been all my life, etc. • Tries to monopolize your time. Does not want you to spend time with family or friends outside of the dating relationship, and gets angry or jealous when you do.

Never mistake intensity for intimacy. True love and intimacy never happen overnight. It takes a willingness to be open, real and honest, and it takes time to develop. It takes knowledge of your true selves, consideration and empathy for others and a real desire to develop your relationship at a pace that is comfortable for both of you. Narcissists are simply incapable of having real, authentic and honest relationships, which is why they try to suck you in very quickly, early on in the beginning stages of dating. They view everyone else in their lives as the ones who have the problem, never themselves. A true Narcissist will never try to change his behavior because true Narcissists can do no wrong in their own twisted and warped minds. To admit weakness would kill the Narcissist and the facade (false self) he has created for himself. You may be unhappy for a little while after ending a relationship with a Narcissist, but your future will be so much brighter once he stops sucking the life out of you. You can escape this toxic relationship. Just remember one thing: you will never be able to save him, because a Narcissist doesn't want or need to be saved, but you do have the power to save yourself from the toxic Narcissist in your life. WGW

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Daily Fare ”Adapt these recipes to your tastes and your lifestyle. That’s what I want you to feel the freedom to do with my recipes. You are more talented and creative than you give yourself credit for!” Julie Culpepper

Julie Culpepper is a Georgia native who lived in Carrollton for 26 years with her husband Alan and their adult children. She and Alan recently became residents of Wedowee, Ala. Julie became a personal chef after graduating culinary school in 2012 and loves working with two companies that she incorporates into her style of cooking – Branch and Vine in Newnan, and Doterra, an online source for essential oils located in Utah. For further information about contacting Julie or these companies, please feel free to contact her at : jculpep4@gmail.com or culpepperoilsolutions@mydoterra.org

or go online to: branchandvineonline.org

A Different Take On Pork Chops and Gravy and a Cozy and Comforting Turkey Dinner Everyone needs a change now and then, so I wanted to present a slightly different twist on pork chops and gravy to you with these delicious Smothered Pork Chops with Gremolata and Swiss Chard. You can always substitute any kind of greens for the Swiss chard and lighter versions of the gravy if desired. Be careful not to over-salt the gremolata, (like I did the first try,) if the bread crumbs are already salted. Cook the gravy and mushrooms separately from the pork chops so you can retain a crust on the chops for service. The gremolata can be made up to three days ahead of time, and the extra can be used to garnish many other side dishes, hot or cold. There’s something about this Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash cooked in a cast iron skillet and served with cornbread that’s so satisfying and comforting. This dish is a perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors that are warm and nourishing after being out in the cold during the day. I did not brave the cold weather to grill the cornbread! I used my cast iron griddle over the stove top, and it does not take long to get the grill marks on the corn bread if you preheat the grill before starting. Leftover cornbread works perfectly well if your family does not eat cornbread and buttermilk for dessert like Alan does!

Smothered Pork Chops with Gremolata and Swiss chard

Photos by Michelle Horsley

removed, chopped For gremolata:

1 cup panko bread crumbs,

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil 1 teaspoon garlic paste ½ cup chopped parsley

1 tablespoon lemon zest Salt and pepper to taste For gravy:

Ingredients

¾ cup beef broth

For pork chops:

1 can cream of mushroom soup

Flour for dusting

½ teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

½ teaspoon pepper

1 can cream of chicken soup

4 pork chops, boneless, 1 inch thick

8 ounces sliced portabella mushrooms

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

½ teaspoon paprika

1 pound Swiss chard, washed, stems

1 tablespoon butter

Instructions For pork chops: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add extra virgin olive oil. Sprinkle salt and pepper over each chop and dust each chop lightly in flour. Fry about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until cooked through and browned. Remove from skillet, cover with foil and keep warm. In a separate skillet, add the extra virgin olive oil and sauté the chard with salt and pepper to taste about 7 to 8 minutes on medium heat stirring frequently, cover and keep on low heat until service, stirring occasionally until service. For gravy: In the same skillet used for the chops, add butter and sauté the mushrooms about 3 minutes, adding the spices and stirring frequently. Add the beef broth and soups and combine until smooth. Heat through and simmer until bubbly, about 5 minutes. Cover and keep warm until service. For gremolata: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add extra virgin olive oil. Add the panko crumbs and roast until golden brown, about 2 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and allow to cool. In a food processor, add parsley, garlic, lemon zest, and pepper. Pulse until finely chopped. Toss with the panko crumbs and add salt if necessary. Cover and refrigerate until service if making ahead of time. For service: Place a mound of greens on each plate and top with one pork chop for each person. Ladle about 1/3 cup gravy and sprinkle gremolata over the top. Serve immediately. Serves 4

Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash with Grilled Cornbread and Jalapeño Honey Butter Ingredients For hash: 1 pound ground turkey ½ cup chopped onion 1 cup chopped parsley (reserve ¼ cup for garnish) 1 ½ cups diced cooked sweet potato (retain firm texture without allowing to become mushy) ½ cup yellow pepper 1 teaspoon each salt and pepper 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese For cornbread: Sliced cornbread (about 2 slices per person) ½ cup softened butter 2 tablespoons raw honey 1 jalapeno, finely chopped

Instructions For hash: In a large skillet, brown the turkey and drain the grease. Add onion, parsley, sweet potato, yellow pepper, salt and pepper, and extra virgin olive oil. Stir gently and allow the ingredients to soften, about 5 to 6 minutes. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the mixture, cover with a lid and turn the heat off, and allow the cheese to melt, about 2 minutes. Garnish with parsley before service. For cornbread: Combine butter, honey and jalapeno in small bowl. Slather over cornbread slices and grill until marks show on the cornbread as it is heated through. You can also place the slices under the oven broiler and allow to brown slightly as the bread heats and honey butter melts. Serve immediately with the hash.

Serves 4

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Shala Hainer, Realtor Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Metro Brokers Office: 404.843.2500 Direct: 770.842.8500 www.metrobrokers.com Better Homes and Gardens® is a registered trademark of Meredith Corporation licensed to Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC. Equal Opportunity Company. Each Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate Franchise is Independently Owned and Operated. If your property is currently listed with a real estate broker, please disregard. It is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other real estate brokers.

Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes Among Women D

iabetes is the sixth leading cause of death among adults, and over 800,000 people live with diabetes in Georgia. In 2012, the prevalence of diabetes among men and women in Douglas County was 12 percent and Carroll County 10 percent. Type 2 diabetes is increasingly common among young people and even children. In addition, approximately 450,000 adults in Georgia have prediabetes. Individuals with prediabetes have an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke. Moreover, individuals with prediabetes often possess cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertension, obesity and high cholesterol, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health.

Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes Type 1 diabetes is caused by a lack of insulin due to the destruction of insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. In type 1 diabetes – an autoimmune disease – the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the beta cells. Type 1 diabetes typically occurs in children and young adults, though it can appear at any age.

By Dr. Habiba N. Shaw In type 2 diabetes, the body does not use insulin properly, which causes blood glucose (sugar) levels to be higher than normal. Type 2 diabetes is strongly associated with inactivity and obesity. People who are genetically susceptible to type 2 diabetes are more vulnerable when these risk factors are present. Research show that the influence of obesity on type 2 diabetes risk is determined not only by the degree of obesity but also by where fat accumulates. Increased upper body fat including visceral adiposity, as reflected in increased abdominal girth or waist-to-hip ratio, is associated with the metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. With increased rate of obesity in Georgia (30.5 percent) diabetes constitutes a major health problem in our state and it is becoming one of the largest challenges to health care systems.

Pear and Apple Shaped Obesity According to Harvard Health Publication in October 2015, fat accumulated in the lower body (the pear shape) is subcutaneous, while fat in the abdominal area (the apple shape) is largely visceral. Some evidence suggests that pear-shaped women

Excess visceral fat and insulin resistance, but not general adiposity, are independently associated with coincident prediabetes and type 2 diabetes mellitus, according to a 2012 JAMA study that followed up 732 obese individuals for a median of seven years. While men are more likely to store noticeable levels of visceral fat, women are definitely at risk, too. Reducing visceral fat through a healthy diet and other means is one of the most important natural diabetes treatments there is that’s within your control.

People with Large Waists Need to Reduce Them Immediately are better protected from metabolic diseases like diabetes compared to big-bellied people. Although people who are overweight or obese are more likely to have large amounts of visceral fat, normalweight people also can have too much visceral fat. Considering the risk that visceral fat poses to one’s body, it is considered far more dangerous than the subcutaneous fat type, which merely causes the inflation of the body without really causing internal problems.

In a study comparing sedentary adults with those exercising at different intensities, researchers at Duke University Medical Center found that the non-

Visceral Fat Visceral fat is body fat that is stored within the abdominal cavity and is therefore stored around a number of important internal organs such as the liver, pancreas and intestines. The visceral fat is thought to play a large role in insulin resistance more than other types of fats, which means a heightened risk for developing diabetes. For example, abdominal fat is viewed as a bigger health risk than hip or thigh fat, not only for diabetes but for many other chronic diseases too.

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bread, refined-grain pasta, and sugary drinks. Replacing saturated fats and trans-fats with polyunsaturated fats can also help. But drastically cutting calories is not a good diet strategy, because it can force the body into starvation mode, slowing metabolism and paradoxically causing it to store fat more efficiently later on. For now, experts believe that lifestyle, especially exercise, is the very best way to fight visceral fat.

Type 2 Diabetes Can Be Prevented exercisers experienced a nearly 9 percent gain in visceral fat after six months. Subjects who exercised the equivalent of walking or jogging 12 miles per week put on no visceral fat, and those who exercised the equivalent of jogging 20 miles per week lost both visceral and subcutaneous fat. Losing weight and increasing exercise appear to be the keys to decreasing visceral fat. Start a regular moderate-intensity physical activity at least 30 minutes to an hour per day to control weight. Strength training (exercising with weights) may also help fight abdominal fat. Spot exercising, such as doing sit-ups, can tighten abdominal muscles, but it won’t get at visceral fat. Diet is also important. Pay attention to portion size, and emphasize complex carbohydrates (fruits, vegetables, and whole grains) and lean protein over simple carbohydrates such as white rice, white

Data from the Nurses’ Health Study suggest that 90 percent of type 2 diabetes in women can be attributed to five such factors: excess weight, lack of exercise, a less-than-healthy diet, smoking and alcohol intake. Among 85,000 married female nurses, 3,300 developed type 2 diabetes over a 16-year period. Women in the low-risk group were 90 percent less likely to have developed diabetes than the rest of the women. Low-risk meant a healthy weight (body mass index less than 25), a healthy diet, 30 minutes or more of exercise daily, no smoking, and having a maximum alcohol intake of about three drinks per week. Type 2 diabetes and prediabetes can be prevented through physical activity and good nutrition; once acquired, there is no known cure for this disease. With proper treatment, it can be controlled and managed so that it does not progress to the point of severe medical complications. WGW Dr. Habiba Shaw was a member of the National Speaker’s Association, Alabama Chapter, and is regarded as an expert in healthy lifestyles. Dr. Shaw has a Doctorate Degree in Health Care Education from Nova Southeastern University and a Master’s Degree in Food and Nutrition. Habiba, a former university health and nutrition specialist, specialized in working with medical professionals and organizations that are concerned with general health and obesity. During her thirty plus year career, Dr. Shaw wrote health and nutrition related articles for newspapers, scientific magazines, and brochures, and presented seminars to major universities and colleges in Alabama. She also appeared on local television programs in her role as a nutrition expert.

Striving for the Best

Realtor Shala Hainer chooses to reject mediocrity

Photos by Rob Hainer

Celebrate HER SUCCESS

Building Relationships, One Client At A Time

hala Hainer believes that decisions matter. If you make a bad one, you live with the consequences. If you make a good one, you reap the rewards. Although that sounds like a simple concept, it seems difficult for many people to put that into practice. In spite of several decisions that didn’t turn out so well, Shala has tried to learn from her mistakes, and she’s now a successful, award-winning Realtor in West Georgia. “Taking the leap into real estate wasn’t easy,” she recalls. “The good – and bad – thing about real estate is that for the most part, you get out of it what you put into it. The harder you work and get yourself out there to find clients, the better chance you have of being successful. Having all that pressure on my shoulders can seem overwhelming, but it also empowers me to try new things and focus on the future. By going the extra mile to make sure my clients have a positive experience, I hope to see future rewards in the form of referrals.”

Overcoming Adversity Shala had every reason to end up unsuccessful. Originally from Buchanan, Ga., the schools focused more on vocational training than college prep classes, designed to meet the needs of the majority of students who had no college plans. Raised by a single mom, there was no money to pay for college. Her parents divorced when she was barely 9 years old, and afterward, her father made some very bad decisions. For most of her childhood from that point, he was in prison. “I quietly lived with the stigma associated with his

decisions, which ranged from friends whose parents wouldn’t let them come over to my house to play, to other children who made fun of me at school,” she says. “I was determined to never show anyone I was hurt. And more important, I vowed that I was not the product of my parents’ behavior – I knew my choices could take my life in a different direction.” Her mother lived with bipolar disorder, which often complicated daily life. Although her mother was kind, loving and generous, she would bounce between manic behavior and depression without a proper diagnosis. She started to get progressively worse after Shala and her brother left for college. But Shala had an ace up her sleeve: her grandfather. They moved in with her mother’s parents after the divorce, and her grandparents became like an additional set of parents. “My grandfather was an amazing man. I can’t even describe how wonderful he was,” she explains. “He seemed to have unlimited patience, and he truly understood children. He got us outside, had us whittle on sticks or sand down some wood to make canes, and he would just listen while we talked about how we felt. For some reason, getting our hands busy made our minds, and mouths, open.” Her grandfather taught her the benefit of working hard, and how she could do anything she wanted if she just set her mind to it. She earned scholarships to pay for college, determined to get an education. She worked through college, sometimes two jobs. She graduated summa cum laude from Jacksonville State University with a major in communications. “There is no way I could have found my way through college without my family support,” she says. “Most of the people I graduated high school

with chose not to go to college, but my mother told me for as long as I can remember that having a college degree would open doors. She was right.”

Finding Her Groove Shala worked in communications for many years at various newspapers and nonprofit organizations. After her oldest son, Jackson, was born, she began working from home as a freelance writer. “There wasn’t much security in it, but I knew the right decision was to be with him as much as possible,” she says. “Juggling work and a small child was incredibly hard, but as I built my resume of freelance work, I found more clients and developed a relatively steady stream of income.” She says the trick to finding new clients was putting out quality work. “My grandfather told me that no matter what job you had, even if it was digging a ditch, it was worth doing right or it wasn’t worth doing at all,” she recalls. “I’ve always worked with that mantra. If I’m going to do something, I want to be the best I can at it. Being mediocre isn’t

an option.” During the recession, freelance work changed. Many people who were suddenly out of work started looking for jobs they could do at home, and companies that hired freelance writers began paying less for the work because of the high number of applicants. Shala knew her time working as a freelance writer full-time was limited.

Giving Real Estate a Go “I eventually decided to take a huge leap of faith. I always loved real estate, and I started working in the industry in 2003 when I was with the Greater Atlanta Home Builders Association. Part of my job involved teaching continuing education classes to real estate agents and overseeing the group of real estate agents who were members of the Association. “I learned about how marketing real estate was different than traditional sales,” she remembers. “I also learned the level of commitment it takes to be a good Realtor. For the truly successful ones, it’s a passion for helping people find homes they can

love. I watched some of those Realtors move heaven and earth to get the best for their clients.” Shala knew then that she wanted to go into real estate. It fit in directly with her caregiver mentality, and she was attracted to how working hard and smart usually led to success. She took the real estate class online and passed the licensing exam on her first try. Although she started out part-time, she jumped in with both feet. “One of the big things I did was try to take other agent’s advice,” she explains. “I asked several successful agents what they thought made them successful, and what I could do starting out to start building my client base. I listened carefully, and took their advice.” Shala realized real estate was a relationship business, and her network had dwindled significantly since she had been working from home. “I started looking for ways to get more involved and build relationships with people I had something in

common with,” she says. “That’s by far the most time consuming part of my job, but I love it. There is great personal satisfaction with getting to know new people, and it’s just a bonus that they might recommend me or use me as a Realtor.” She’s discovered that the clients she works with quickly become like family. “I wasn’t prepared for how protective I become of my clients,” she relates. “I develop bonds with them that continue long past the home sale transaction.” Because Shala has a 9-year-old and a 3-yearold, she sticks mostly to groups that are friendly with small children. She is on the board of the local MOMS Club, and she volunteers on several committees for the elementary school’s Parent/ Teacher/Student Association, for example. “I also reach out through social media,” she explains. “Many people are more comfortable starting off conversations about houses online, where there is a small degree of separation. Many

“

When your heart is about making someone else’s dream come true, there’s not much that can sto p you.

She started out part-time, but she began working full-time as a Realtor about a year ago. Since that time, she has been recognized as one of her company’s top producers and is in line to receive awards from Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Metro Brokers and the Paulding Board of Realtors for total inventory sold – she’s projected to move more than $3 million dollars’ worth of inventory by the end of the year. She also recently spoke to her peers about the secrets behind her success. “I was honored to be asked to address a meeting at my local office,” she says. “Most of the people who speak have years and years of success to share, but I hoped to inspire newer agents to make the decision to get out there and find their own ways to success.” Shala tries to play to her strengths, and she believes that’s key to her success. “I want to get the best deal I can for both my buyers and sellers,” she says. “I do my research. I dot my I’s and cross my T’s. But most of all, I make my clients feel valued. I work hard for them – it’s not just about a commission for me. There’s a much higher

“

times, the first time I meet a client is when we show up at the first house together.”

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purpose there, and my clients feel that from the very beginning. I truly want to help them, and that’s not something you can fake.”

The Future Shala hopes her future continues to be bright in real estate. She works mostly in Carroll, Haralson, Paulding and Cobb counties, sticking to the areas where she has lived and is the most familiar. “I want to give my clients the best advice possible, and I think being knowledgeable about the market is key to that,” she relates. She believes what sets her apart is her communication, and she plans to continue increasing her organization strategies so she can always communicate effectively with her clients. “I’ve had several clients say they were working with other Realtors before they met me, but they decided to work with me instead because I actually called them back. My kids might be screaming in the background or tugging on my shirt to get my attention, but I will

always call back,” she laughs. “If I can’t do it timely, I send a text message to let them know when I’ll be available to talk. I don’t ever want my clients to feel ignored.” She knows she is still building her business, but she believes her passion to serve will help her grow as a Realtor. “When your heart is about making someone else’s dream come true, there’s not much that can stop you,” she says. WGW

For more information about Shala Hainer and Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Metro Brokers, call 678.320.4529 or email shala.hainer@metrobrokers.com

Womentality

Inspiring quotes by extraordinary women “People think at the end of the day that a man is the only answer [to fulfillment]. Actually a job is better for me.” – Princess Diana

“The question isn’t who’s going to let me; it’s who is going to stop me.” – Ayn Rand

"Stop wearing your wishbone where your backbone ought to be.”

“A woman is the full circle. Within her is the power to create, nurture and transform.”

– Elizabeth Gilbert

– Diane Mariechild

"Whatever you do, be different – that was the advice my mother gave me, and I can’t think of better advice for an entrepreneur. If you’re different, you will stand out.” – Anita Roddick

Abandoning Tradition:

Change Your Life Through Being Grateful

By: Cheryl Francis

hat if, instead of waiting until November 24th to be consciously and publicly thankful, you break tradition and begin a marathon of giving thanks and showing gratefulness? What, if anything, would change in your life? Positive Psychology has long touted the fact, backed by research, that an attitude of gratefulness lends to a much happier and healthier life. The first time I experienced the truth that gratefulness contributes to happiness was during my undergrad years in college. I graduated high school, did two years at a community college on a scholarship, and eventually graduated. I knew I did not want to stop after two years, but the scholarship was only for two years, and I was simply broke. I found a job which paid for employees continuing their education if they maintained a “B” or better. So, I decided to continue my education. I fell in love during this time with Mr. Wonderful, got married and thought, “This is the life! What can go wrong?” Well, things did go wrong – two young people trying to find their way, trying "adulting", trying to finish college, financial strains, attempting to balance in-laws, work, school, the list goes on

and on. All these stressors began to take a toll on my marriage with Mr. Wonderful. I decided that I was in for keeps and I needed to do something to stave off this unhappiness. As we sat in our studio apartment on the third floor talking about what was not working, I had an "ah-ha" moment. With all the stressors in our marriage, there were some things that were going right! We decided to talk about those things and found out a lot was going right based on perspective. As we talked, I realized that I was feeling less stress. We were even laughing together. We were communicating more openly, and actually enjoying each other’s conversation. At the end of our discourse, I created an inside game called the “20 Blessings.” We agreed that whenever either one gets in a funk, the other would mention “20 Blessings.” We would both stop and identify 20 things in that moment for which we were grateful. I cannot recall a time we utilized that game where I did not walk away feeling better about me, my situation and the circumstances surrounding what I was feeling. As we enter the period of thanksgiving, I want to challenge you to abandon tradition. Although Thanksgiving is a national holiday and we cater

huge feasts and do what we do best – eat – there are many people who are not truly happy during this period. These are those individuals who may be experiencing some type of grief around this time. Although we may show up for the family Thanksgiving dinner, we show up wearing masks, hoping specific people would decide not to show, and for that we would be eternally grateful. For some, having to host the feast takes the gratitude out of the holiday celebration. The in-laws may be coming over, or you may be going to the in-laws. It takes 21 days to develop a habit. I want to help you abandon tradition and enjoy a healthier, happier life, beginning today. This Thanksgiving as you list your blessings, I want you to be truly grateful with the expectation that your gratefulness will extend beyond Thanksgiving Day. We are 23 days away from Thanksgiving. Purchase either a plain journal or a fancy motivational journal; you may even use a notebook. Write down some things for which you are grateful. If writing is a chore for you, decide on a specific time in the day where you are able to spend time alone reflecting on gratefulness. Make a decision today to invest in and change your life. Whichever method you choose, please complete before bedtime.

Day: 1. Write a minimum of three things related to your health for which you are grateful 2. Reflect on what you wrote on day one and write a minimum of three things related to friendship for which you are grateful 3. Reflect on what you wrote the past two days and write a minimum of three things for which you are grateful, relating to

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your father (deceased, alive or absent) 4. Reflect on what you wrote the past three days and write a minimum of three things for which you are grateful, relating to your mother (deceased, absent or alive) 5. Reflect on what you wrote the past four days and write a minimum of three things for which you are grateful, relating to employment 6. Reflect on what you wrote the past five days and write a minimum of three things for which you are grateful, relating to the environment or nature 7. Reflect on what you wrote the past six days and write a minimum of three things you are grateful for related to whatever you would like 8. Reflect on what you wrote the past seven days and write a minimum of three things for which you are grateful, relating to being able to smile 9. Reflect on what you wrote the past eight days and write a minimum of three things related to living in West Georgia for which you are grateful 10. Reflect on what you wrote the past nine days and write a minimum of three things related to children for which you are grateful 11. Reflect on what you wrote the past 10 days and write a minimum of three things related to breathing for which you are grateful 12. Reflect on what you wrote the past 11 days and write a minimum of three ways in which you practiced kindness to someone this past week 13. Reflect on what you wrote the past 12 days and write a minimum of three things related to movement for which you are grateful

Be Thankful

14. Reflect on what you wrote the past 13 days and write a minimum of three things for which you are grateful related to whatever you would like 15. Reflect on what you wrote the past 14 days and assess where you are on abandoning tradition 16. Reflect on what you wrote the past 15 days and write a minimum of one thing for which you are grateful, relating to food 17. Reflect on what you wrote the past 16 days and write a minimum of one thing for which you are grateful, related to family 18. Reflect on what you wrote the past 17 days and write a minimum of one thing for which you are grateful, related to reading and writing 19. Reflect on what you wrote the past 18 days and write a minimum of one thing that you saw recently and would describe as absolutely beautiful 20. Reflect on what you wrote the past 19 days and write a minimum of three things for which you are grateful, which relates

to being able to follow through on your commitment 21. Reflect on what you have written so far and assess where you are on your lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s journey 22. Reflect and write as you please 23. Reflect and write as you please 24. Truly HAPPY THANKSGIVING!! And yes, I am so grateful to still be with Mr. Wonderful. I would do it again in a heartbeat! WGW Cheryl A. Francis, Licensed Professional Counselor, is the owner of The Heart Matters Wellness Services LLC, a fullservice counseling agency. She is certified as a Mental Health First Aid Adult trainer and regularly provides seminars and trainings to the community on various mental health issues. She currently works as a school-based mental health counselor, and has partnered with the Georgia Center for Child Advocacy to train individuals in the prevention of childhood sexual abuse. Visit heartmatterswellness.com for more information about Cheryl and her work.

Give them tomorrow Premature birth is the #1 killer of babies. Every baby deserves a fighting chance. DO SOMETHING TODAY

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Local Happenings

Healers and Helpers Wellness Group

This group meets the last Saturday of every month in Douglasville or Austell. For more information, contact Cheryl at theheartmatters@gmail.com or learn more at www.heartmatterswellness.com. November meeting: Managing Financial Stressors: Your Taxes and You. Featuring presenters Lawrey Francis EMBA and Cheryl Francis LPC. November 19, 2016, at 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Location: Austell, Ga. Contact Cheryl for more information.

Hope For The Journey This group meets the third Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in the board room at the Tracy Stallings Community Center at 118 South White St. in 56

Carrollton. These events are free to breast cancer survivors or those currently battling breast cancer. No one should have to face breast cancer alone.

Need It Most – Mommy’s Day Out Each Mommy’s Day Out event is from 6 to 7 p.m. on the first Thursday of every month. Locations vary. Please contact Jwyanda at 678.739.1740 or Jwyanda@icloud.com for more information. These are free events for new mothers, mothers with children 0-12 months and mothers suffering from postpartum depression. www.needitmost.wordpress.com

Battle of the Badges June 14, 2016 Thank You For Your Service!

From left: Carrollton Police Department's Corporal Omereo "Mario" Potts and Detective Sergeant Dan Keever with Carroll County Sheriff Terry Langley.

From left: Carroll County Fire Department's Kelvin Graham, Robert Ogle and Matthew Hall collecting donations for the Georgia Firefighters Burn Foundation "Give Burns The Boot" campaign.

Tyler and Gabby Cole, children of Carrollton Police Department Lieutenant J.J. Cole and Christine Cole hanging out beside the City of Carrollton Police Department's 1963 Chevrolet Bel Air Police Car.

From left: Jim Porter, Officer Jerric Gilbert, Corporal "Mario" Potts and Detective Sergeant Dan Keever collect donations for the Fraternal Order of Police "Cops, Kids and Christmas" campaign.

Milestone Investment Management â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Midyear Outlook and Art With Andrea

Michael Stone, CEO and founder of Milestone Investment Management, presenting at the Midyear Outlook 2016. Milestone Investment Management provides this valuable service to their clients to keep them updated on important financial news that may impact their financial portfolios throughout the year.

Michael with Susan Hewitt and her masterpiece.

Andrea Stone, a former art educator for 21 years, now Director of Marketing at Milestone Investment Management, waiting to teach her students for the evening as Michael gives opening remarks.

Jennifer Sauls, Director of Operations, observes as Marla Dugan creates her work of art.

Maggie Mitchell Visits Local Book Club

Author of "Pretty Is," which The New York Times reviewed as “a stunning, multi-layered debut,” joins Carrollton book club for an evening of discussion and fellowship

Maggie's book is available online and at all major retail stores, including Underground Books and Horton's Bookstore in Carrollton.

From left: Sydney Dailey, Karen Kagiyama, Melanie McClellan, Maggie Mitchell, Joetta Miller, Karen Hartley and Dee Dee Murphy.

Maggie signs a copy of her book for Tami Ogletree.

From left: Tami Ogletree, Maggie holding her second-favorite publication (wink), Stacey Blackmon and Jami Bower.

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Super Easy

Thankful Turkey Puppets

emind your children what Thanksgiving is truly about with these super cute thankful paper bag turkey puppets. After the family eats Thanksgiving dinner have the kids put on a thankfulthemed puppet show for guests.

Materials Paper lunch bag Construction paper (assorted colors, black and white) or feathers Glue Scissors Crayons, paint or markers Instructions Flip paper bag upside down so the opening is pointing downward. Glue feathers or construction paper feathers to the back of the bag. At the top of the front side of the bag glue eyes, beak and wattle. On the turkey bag's body use the crayons, paint or markers to write down things for which you are thankful. See next page for different example with turkey legs, alternative eyes, beak and wattle.

Kids'

Thanksgiving Table Mayflower Place Cards

Instructions Cut the white construction paper into 2 1/2 X 2 1/2 inch squares. Cut a small slit about 1/2 inch from the top and bottom to accommodate the pretzel stick. Decorate the "sail" with stickers. Place pretzel through slits in construction paper then insert into the front of the donut to resemble a sailboat. Place in front of each table setting for guests. Eat donut for dessert after Thanksgiving dinner! WGW

ake Thanksgiving dinner a formal affair for the kids' table with these adorable Mayflower place cards they can easily make for themselves and their guests.

Materials Chocolate mini-donuts Small pretzel sticks White construction paper

Happy Thanksgiving!

Alphabet stickers

Happy Thanksgiving Word Search Word Bank Turkey Cornucopia Gobble Autumn Cornbread Dressing Grateful Pumpkin Pie Thanksgiving Football Tradition Leaves Nap Family Cranberry

Word search created at puzzle-maker.com

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