me & mine magazine winter/holiday 2015

32
WINTER 2015 A Free Local Publication

Upload: me-and-mine-magazine

Post on 24-Jul-2016

219 views

Category:

Documents


0 download

DESCRIPTION

 

TRANSCRIPT

WINTER 2015

A FreeLocal

Publication

2 ME AND MINE MAGAZINE | WINTER 2015

ME AND MINE MAGAZINE | WINTER 2015 1

25 TO DO'S 3

DEALING WITH GRIEF DURING THE HOLIDAYS 5

HANDS OF HOPE: RESOURCES FOR HOMELESS FAMILIES 8

A MATTER OF TASTE: HOLIDAY TIPS FOR FOOD & WINE PAIRING 11

MEET DENISE LEE 13

TRIMMING YOUR TREE 17

VERY MERRY HOLIDAY MUFFINS 19

CHRISTMAS CLAY CREATIONSWITH LOOSE PARTS 21

THANK YOU FOR SHOPPING LOCAL 25

Jennifer Jaeger Traynham PUBLISHER

Rona Desmond MARKETING & ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE

Fritzie RhodyMARKETING & ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE

Jessica JaegerEDITOR

Me & MineStaff

www.meandminemagazine.com

Me and Mine magazine is an LLC and its information, format and designs are protected by copyright laws. Any reproduction of content, photography or arrangement is not permitted unless written permission is granted by the publisher of the magazine.

Contributing authors and photographers are responsible for content and accuracy in their submissions and Me and Mine Magazine, its founders or members assume no responsibility for errors or omissions.

Me and Mine Magazine, LLC, © Copyright 2015

on the coverCover Photo of Candis King by Samantha Prather Photography

2 ME AND MINE MAGAZINE | WINTER 2015

Dried Fruits Nuts • Confections

Gifts & Kitchenware

1-800-447-5218 or 751-5327www.sunsweet.com

901 N. Walton Ave. Yuba City, CA

We have a great selection of local food products and gifts.

Holiday HoursMonday-Saturday 8 am - 4 pm

through December 23rd.

OPEN YEAR ROUNDMonday-Friday 8 am - 4 pm

ME AND MINE MAGAZINE | WINTER 2015 3

I mean, we really love it! We love the music,

the weather, the food, the clothes, and even

the chaos. We love that people have a little

more pep in their step and we love seeing

the excitement in the eyes of children when

someone mentions Santa. Every day of

December will bring fun activities and the

creation of more memories with your loved

ones that you will treasure for years to come.

We always have ideas of what we wish we

would have taken time to do throughout the

season, so we compiled a list to share with

our readers. Our advice is to stop and enjoy

the little things this season. Remember that

the best things aren’t bought; that they are

truly the thoughtful gestures, shared laughs

and tears, and unforgettable feelings of love

that are cherished. We hope you have the

best Christmas yet!

We love the holiday season!

1. Read a Christmas book to a child.2. Take a drive and find Christmas lights in town.3. Create a special playlist with all of your favorite Christmas songs.

Take a couple of extra minutes and make copies for your friends. 4. Be sure to watch your favorite Christmas movies.5. Go to the Christmas parade!6. Decorate a gingerbread house.7. Donate to Toys for Tots or another charity drive that brings a smile to

a child's face.8. Make a card for a soldier to thank them for their service.9. Attend a Christmas play.10. Gather some kids and Christmas carol at a local nursing home or in

your neighborhood.11. Bake cookies.12. Let your kids help decorate the Christmas tree.13. Treat the car behind you to a coffee at Starbucks.14. Make sure to schedule a date night.15. Buy a new ornament for each child in your house to represent what

they love.16. Meet a friend for a manicure/pedicure to take time for yourself.17. Volunteer to take your friend’s kids for an hour or two so they have

time to get some quiet gift-wrapping time.18. Bring your child’s teacher a cup of coffee and pastry at the morning

drop off. 19. Decorate your house with lights.20. Let your kids loose at the Dollar Store so they can buy their own gifts

for you and their siblings.21. Make special treats for your neighbors.22. Call someone that you have been meaning to reach out to for months.23. Spend time with your parents.24. Take pictures. Lots of pictures! And be sure to take a family photo,

even if you think you’re not camera ready. You will be happy you have it!

25. Donate old coats and toys or find an angel tree. Select children the same ages as your own, and let your child choose a gift their angel would really love!

By your friends at Me & Mine

4 ME AND MINE MAGAZINE | WINTER 2015

(530) 846-3673540 Vermont St.Gridley

(855) 372-8169751 Sterling ParkwaySuite 100Lincoln

Hoybjerg Orthodontics team combines impeccable credentials

with exceptional rapport insuring the best-customized orthodontic

treatment in a relaxed atmosphere.

Hoybjergortho.com

(530) 533-30532770 Olive HwySuite FOroville

(530) 751-12251215 Plumas St.Suite 1101Yuba City

Call today to schedule your complimentary consultation at Hoybjerg Orthodontics...indeed the place to experience the best-customized orthodontic treatment!

WE WISH YOU MANY SMILES & THE HAPPIEST HOLIDAY SEASON!

S P E C TA C U L A R I S . . . .

ME AND MINE MAGAZINE | WINTER 2015 5

he holidays are coming and I am dreading sitting around the dining room table. I can see the green bean

casserole with French onions and the salami and cheese plate, I can feel the warmth of happy memories, but I also know I will look across the table and see the empty chair, the one where my sister would normally be sitting. When I think of this moment I can feel my neck muscles tighten, and before I know it the tears are streaming down my face once again. I find myself looking around the room. The kids are arguing back and forth. I can hear everything and nothing at the same time; it’s like I am in a fog. Suddenly, I hear my son’s voice. I shake myself out of the fog and see him in front of me. He says, “Mom, I’m worried about you. Are you alright? You seem so sad lately.” I begin to cry harder. I don’t want to let those around me down, but I fear if I lose focus of my sister I will forget her. I am not quite ready to accept that her death is real.

This is just a small part of my story, but if you have recently lost someone, you may also be experiencing similar feelings and fears. Feelings of shock, anger, sadness, or even some relief (and guilt because of the relief) are not unusual at all. If you are feeling any or even all of these things, you are not alone. These are normal emotions associated with grief and loss. The most well-known stages of grief include denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance, but there can be many more. So many of us who are grieving wish we could move quickly and smoothly through these emotions, but unfortunately healing from grief is not an easy or quick journey. It takes time and effort to move forward from the loss of a loved one and there may be numerous bumps along the way. You may feel you have accepted the passing one day and then be angry again the next. There is no right way to grieve and each person’s journey is different.

Crying is a natural response to pain. Talking about your needs, feelings, and memories to someone caring and trustworthy can help you feel better. Let the people around you know what you need; this will not only be helpful for you, but also for them. A big mistake often made by people who are grieving is to hide your pain to protect those around you. Grief is meant to be felt, and trying to ignore it will only put your physical, emotional, and mental well-being at risk. Please know that you have the right to feel and express your pain, and if you do not have people in your life that you can reach out to, you have options available to you in our community. There are many grief groups available that can provide you with the opportunity to meet others who feel the same way you do, and who can help you learn to walk this road you have found yourself on.

For me, my son’s statement of concern was my turning point. Three months after the passing of my sister I finally felt like I could “create my new normal.” You hear this a lot in the world of grief and loss: creating a new normal. At first, it seems totally impossible. With time, though, you begin to find different activities and tasks that help you feel better. For me, it was leaning on my husband when I needed to, listening to songs that provided me comfort every morning, and praying. These are the things that worked best for me. For you it might take something completely different to help you get through your day. Things such as talking and sharing with others, journaling, engaging in physical activity, or switching to a healthier diet or lifestyle can all be ways to help sustain you as you work through your grief. Take the time to rest when you need it and give yourself a break from grieving when you feel completely overwhelmed. Be patient with yourself and take care of yourself. Grief is a deep wound, and it needs time to heal.

For those who would like some help in working through their grief, Rideout Hospice offers a grief group that is free and open to the community. In this group, we get to share our stories, offer one another support, and learn new ways to cope with our grief. Rideout Hospice’s Grief Group is held Thursday nights at the Fremont Conference Center at 989 Plumas St in Yuba City. Our next session begins December 3, 2015 and meets through February 4, 2016. Rideout will also be hosting a special “Grief and the Holidays” group on November 19, 2015 from 6-7 pm, for those who need some extra help during this time of the year. We would love to have you join us!

If you have any questions, please contact one of the Rideout Home Health and Hospice Medical Social Workers, Tracy Mae Alvarez or Emily Gillmeister, at (530)790-3006.

Tracy Mae Alvarez is a graduate of Sacramento State University. She has been a Social Worker for nearly 20 years, with the last few years specifically as a medical Social Worker working with the ill and terminally ill patients at Rideout Home Health and Hospice.

Emily Gillmeister is a graduate of Loyola University Chicago. She has been working with the ill and terminally ill patients at Rideout Home Health and Hospice for the last year.

By Tracy Mae Alvarez and Emily Gillmeister

Photography by Brandi Schwartz Design & Photography

Dealing with GriefDURING THE HOLIDAYS

6 ME AND MINE MAGAZINE | WINTER 20156 MEEEEEE AE ND MINNNEEEE MEEEEE AGAAAAAAAAAAAZINZININEEE | WINNNNNTER 22202222 15

ME AND MINE MAGAZINE | WINTER 2015 7

SHOW

Feb 2nd-4th, 201651st Annual Colusa

For 51 years, our show has meant

one-stop shopping for all farm services.

The purpose of this showcase is to

acquaint agriculturalists with the

latest in modern farming

equipment and techniques.

Free admission!!Free Parking!!

ands of Hope began in 2004

when two teachers kept seeing

students being dropped off at

school in the morning with their cars

full of their belongings. They began to

research the homeless situation in our

communities and found there was a

great need to help those less fortunate.

Over the next five years, a group

of dedicated people, led by Mike

and Sue Mannshardt and Evelyn

Cosner, created the non-profit

corporation known as Hands of

Hope. With the support of many

churches, social groups, agencies,

service organizations, city and county

officials, and volunteers, we opened

the doors at our facility at 909 Spiva

Ave., Yuba City on March 31, 2009.

We serve those who are homeless;

who are living in cars, doorways, river

bottoms, or parks. We also serve those

who are precariously housed, and are

staying in a different place every day.

Hands of Hope provides a day

program Monday-Thursday from

11:00-5:00 where we offer core

services of “no cost” showers, laundry,

and a clothes closet. We have five

showers and eight commercial-grade

washers and dryers. Our clothes closet

provides basic clothing needs for all

ages and sizes.

We serve single women, families

with children, single men who have

custody of their children, and childless

couples. Currently, we are serving 362

adults and children.

At the very beginning, we created a

Client Advocate program to help our

clients with many needs, such as bus

tickets for appointments, ID’s, birth

certificates, new shoes for children,

and bike tires. Our Client Advocate

assesses and meets the needs of each

of our clients, and is invaluable in

helping our clients receive the services

they need. Recently, we acquired a

woman who was pregnant and whose

partner had to be dismissed from

Hands of Hope because he suffered

from a grave mental illness and was on

drugs. We felt this person was a danger

to our population. He subsequently

ended up in jail, which left our female

client to her own devices. This woman

suffered from a brain impairment. She

was unable to problem-solve on her

own, could not do math, had limited

reading skills, and was unable to

graduate high school, despite several

attempts. She became overwhelmed

with grocery shopping and other

chores, and she received only food

stamps.

The Client Advocate evaluated that

her needs required us to pursue

advocating for needed services.

We worked with Social Security to

get her SSI, and Alta Regional to

get her qualified for their services.

After months of persistence on our

Client Advocate’s part, we finally got

approval for psychological testing at

Alta Regional in Sacramento. We

provided transportation there, waited

the two hours for the testing, and

transported her back to Yuba City. She

has since been accepted into the Alta

Regional program, which will strive to

get her into a protected work program

and teach her living skills. We also

have her enrolled in parenting classes,

and she is in a safe living environment.

Her newborn is in the custody of the

grandmother.

We have also retained an attorney’s

office to appeal her SSI denial and

are helping her to complete the

appropriate forms. We continue to stay

in daily contact with her. This is just

one example of many that show how

much Hands of Hope can help our less

fortunate community members.

Resources for Homeless FamiliesHands of Hope

8 ME AND MINE MAGAZINE | WINTER 2015

Hands of Hope works to enhance the quality of life in the Yuba Sutter area by:

• Providing core support services to the homeless

• Reintegrating the homeless within our community

• Engaging the community to respond to the challenge of homelessness

Photography by Brandi Schwartz Design & Photography

ME AND MINE MAGAZINE | WINTER 2015 9

Recently, we also added a Mentor Program. This

program pairs a client with one-on-one help from a

mentor, who guides them to the many community

resources available to help them procure housing,

obtain medical assistance, search for a job, and receive

an education.

We have a van that was given to us by the Pepsi Refresh

Grant and Geweke Ford. It runs four days a week

picking up our clients in both Yuba and Sutter counties.

We have four part-time, paid staff members. However,

VOLUNTEERS help keep our program operating. We

are very grateful for all the community members who

volunteer their time.

Hands of Hope is a private, non-profit organization.

We receive a small percentage of our budget from

county grants and local agencies, but the majority

comes from the generosity of the community members.

We are extremely grateful for all the support

we receive!

Like us on Facebook and find us at ychandsofhope.org

Hours: Monday-Thursday 11am-5pm

909 Spiva Avenue, Yuba City

If you would like to help our organization, we would welcome your support.

Our donation requests include:

• Financial support. We would be glad to send you envelopes in which to mail your donation. This is not a pledge. Send what you can when you can.

• Heavy-duty large tarps and sleeping bags.

• Toilet paper, paper towels, feminine products, diapers (sizes 4, 5, and 6), wipes, tissues.

• 33 gal. garbage bags, small (4 and 8 gal), and medium (13 gal) garbage bags.

• Ground coffee, large size powdered creamer, large bags of sugar, tea, hot chocolate packets, Styrofoam cups, paper bowls.

• Regular size SPRAY deodorant, large size body wash, shampoo and conditioner, travel size body lotion, shaving gel, brushes, combs, razors.

• Quality, clean children’s clothing, adult “survival clothing” (seasonal FALL/WINTER bottoms and tops), sweats, new packaged underwear, new or quality used socks. Please, no “dressy clothing.”

10 ME AND MINE MAGAZINE | WINTER 2015

www.YCRC.com673-6900 • 825 JONES RD, YUBA CITY

ARE YOU STUCK AT ANOTHER GYM?

YCRC WILL HELP YOU GET OUT OF THE CONTRACT AND REIMBURSE

YOUR CANCELLATION FEE

UP TO $250! Call membership for details.

Present this card for offer. New members or alumni only.

Local residents only. Limit one pass per year.

Pass valid for 7 consecutive days. Must be 18 or older with a photo ID.

Some restrictions apply.

7 DAY PA$$FAMILY PASS

EXPIRES JANUARY 15, 2016

ME AND MINE MAGAZINE | WINTER 2015 11

ith the holiday season in full swing, and Christmas and New

Year’s celebrations just around the corner, many of us are busy planning for our festive get-together. Whether you’re planning a simple after-work or weekend “casual” get together with friends or coworkers, or a full-blown multi-course dinner party, we could all use a few fresh ideas and some creative inspiration.

As we all know, food (and LOTS of it!) is the focal point of most holiday gatherings. From appetizers and hors d’oeuvres to grilled meats and imported cheeses, the beverage selection should be as thoughtful as the dishes. To help you “balance” the two, I’ve put together some tips and ideas to help insure your party is a gastronomic success!

First, let’s dispel a few myths. Like, “there’s a science to food and wine pairing.” I’m asked all the time for pairing suggestions from

folks who have been influenced by a Sommelier at a restaurant or a (so-called) food or wine “expert.” While most are well-meaning, they are typically repeating what they’ve been taught and told by other, old-school wine and food experts.

Some of these “rules” have some basis in truth, such as don’t serve a low-acidity wine with a high-acidity dish, because it will make the wine appear flat. Instead, match high-acidity with high-acidity. A cold, sweet, low-alcohol white will quell the “burn” in hot and spicy dishes. And a not-so-sweet wine with dessert will seem bitter. Serve a wine that is sweeter than the dessert. Some flavors CAN overpower one another. The idea here is to complement one another. Generally, think lighter foods with lighter wine, and likewise with heavier fare.

A good friend and well-known master of wine, Tim Hanni, wrote a whole book on personal

preference in which he describes four distinctively different “flavor profiles.” In his book, Why You Like the Wines You Like, he explains that we all have a different amount of taste buds, and as a result, experience taste uniquely from each other. So knowing what wines YOU like should be the first requisite. If you like Chardonnay, and you enjoy it with your steak, then feel free to enjoy. His credo is, “match the wine to the diner, NOT the dinner.”

For casual group get-togethers, you may want to choose a nice selection of reds and whites, have them open near the food, and let your guests do their own wine tasting and pairings. You can even put a bottle of your “suggested” wine next to the dish you’d like it paired with as a sort of guide. I encourage my guests to start with small pours in order to try a number of combinations, which will give them a better chance of finding that “perfect pairing.”

If your group is fairly “wine savvy” and know their way around a Cab, a Malbec, a Chard, and a Zin, you may want to consider having a “blind tasting” dinner party, where each person brings a bottle of wine. The host will wrap each one so no one can see the bottle or label, pass out score sheets and begin the tasting. It’s fun to see the different reactions to flavor and quality when you have no idea what you’ve been poured. Score sheets found online and printed in advance can help guide you and your guests through the process. At the end of the tasting, votes are tallied and the wines (and the winners) are revealed.

No matter how you choose to celebrate this season, sharing it with good friends, good food, and good wine will make it all the more enjoyable and memorable. Have fun with it. Here’s to your health, happiness, and prosperity in the New Year! Cheers!

by Michael Wreyford

A Matter of Taste

12 ME AND MINE MAGAZINE | WINTER 2015

Cheese platter with a selection of crackers and artisan bread.

Manchego cheese and a Brut Champagne or California “Sparkler”Italian truffle cheese and a ViognierCreamy Brie with a buttery Chardonnay

Meat dishes

Lamb Lollipop Appetizers with an Argentine MalbecChicken Satay Sticks with a ChardonnaySteak bites with a California CabSmoked Salmon with a Pinot NoirRoast Turkey with a Sauvignon BlancGrilled Pork with an Old Vine Zin

Holiday Cocktail Suggestions

The Classic Cosmo—it even looks festive! For a twist, replace the Cranberry juice with Pomegranate juice Lemon Drop using Citron Vodka with a sugared rimClassic White Russian with Kahlua, Vodka & milkAmaretto Sour with a CherrySmall Batch Bourbon or Rye with one large ice cubeSpiced Mulled Wine

Mike Wreyford, AKA Mike the “Wine Guy” is a food, wine, travel, & lifestyle expert. This writer, blogger, foodie/

wine enthusiast, and spontaneous traveler is the host & producer of “The Good Life” show, a popular weekly radio talk

show. Mike combines his lifetime of travel, 30+ years in the restaurant/bar business, and an ongoing appreciation of wine

with his marketing and entrepreneurial expertise to share his passion for food, wine, and travel with his fans.

Here are a few suggestions

for simple and delicious

food and wine pairings.

ME AND MINE MAGAZINE | WINTER 2015 13

The Most Wonderful

Time Year

Photography by Brandi Schwartz Design & Photography

eck the halls with boughs of holly

at the home of Denise Bertolini Lee. Savor the glittering trees, the twinkling lights, the handmade ornaments, and enough gorgeous holiday decor to make any spirit bright. Here, Denise shares her creativity and artful way of living with us this holiday season.Living artfully is about expressing who you are through the moments and relationships that only you can create. Life is a work of art, and Denise is an extraordinary artist. When you can enjoy creating a home that reflects your beliefs, your values, your love, and your passion for life, you will have the happiest of holidays. Denise’s artful way of living transforms her home into a glamorous winter wonderland every holiday season. Denise achieves this by experimenting with cheerful color palettes, playful patterns, and various mixed textures while putting together a carefully-planned theme for each room. A thoughtfully-designed tree for each grandchild displays a toyland of treasures among their favorite things. Denise has created a very special home for the holidays, and with her great love for entertaining, her loved ones and friends look forward to gathering at her home each year, surrounded by the spirit of Christmas!

Thank you for sharing your holiday traditions with us. Please tell us more about them.Each year our children and their spouse

children and grandchildren right when we

and grandchildren get into our PJ’s and

How long does it take to decorate your home?

How long do you enjoy your decorations?

Tell us about some of your favorite pieces of décor.

Do you have any special collections?

Do you entertain during the holidays?

grandchildren.

What do you look forward to most about holiday season?

Meet

Denise Lee

14 ME AND MINE MAGAZINE | WINTER 2015

16 ME AND MINE MAGAZINE | WINTER 2015

ME AND MINE MAGAZINE | WINTER 2015 17

Begin by decorating your tree with all your favorites. There is no need to start over from scratch, but you can always enhance the look of your tree by trimming it with some new elements this season.

Let’s say your heart belongs to the season of spring. Try embellishing your tree with flowers or blooming branches. You can also incorporate this look throughout your home, including your holiday table.

If you’re a traditionalist when it comes to decorating, try a natural element with a little flair. Grab a can of gold spray paint and create your own DIY with magnolia leaves. Gorgeous, simple, and classic!

You can always go big! Pitch forks or anything else that you can fit in your tree will surely make a statement.

TRIMMING YOUR TREE

Let’s talk about your Christmas tree! It’s the main focal point during the holiday season, and deserves a little time and a whole lot of love. For those of you that need a little inspiration,

Kevin DeHoff of Country Florist and K. Roberts is here for you! Often, we stick with the same old decorations, but let’s spice it up this year. It’s easier than you think!

No matter your style, Christmas is the time we get to show off our decorating skills. So have fun! Try something new, and spice things up!

Kevin DeHoff, is the owner of the Country Florist and K. Roberts. As a third generation florist in the

Yuba-Sutter area, Kevin first showcased his floral talent at the age of 8 at the local Yuba-Sutter Fair. He has travelled extensively, and has taught several courses in floral design throughout the country. He

is well-known for his work in the area, especially his generous philanthropic donations to local organizations.

by Kevin DeHoff

Ideas to Help You Trim that Tree!• Feathers

• Lanterns

• Wrapped packages

• Pinecones (sprayed or natural)

• Twigs

• Ribbon

• Figurines

• Small collectibles

• Deer antlers

• Old silver utensils and/or frames tied with ribbon

18 ME AND MINE MAGAZINE | WINTER 2015

The mission of the U. S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program is to collect new, unwrapped

toys during December each year, and distribute those toys as Christmas gifts to less fortunate

children in the Yuba Sutter community. The primary goal of Toys for Tots is to deliver,

through a new toy at Christmas, a message of hope to less fortunate youngsters that will assist them in

becoming responsible, productive, patriotic citizens. 

The mission of the U S Marine Corps Reserve

More than 50 drop off locations in the Yuba-Sutter community, visit  yuba-city-ca.toysfortots.org for more information. 

SPONSORED BY HUST BRO.

ME AND MINE MAGAZINE | WINTER 2015 19

Ingredients:Muffins:1 1/2 cups flour 1 cup raw oatmeal 1/3 cup firmly packed brown sugar 1 tablespoon baking powder 1 cup milk 1/4 cup canola oil 1 egg, lightly beaten 1 tsp vanilla

Streusel Topping: 1/3 cup raw oats 1/4 cup flour 1/4 cup firmly-packed brown sugar 2 tablespoons chilled butter, cut into pieces

Directions:Heat oven to 400. Spray your muffin pan with a nonstick cooking spray.

For the streusel, combine all the ingredients in a small bowl and blend with a pastry blender or two butter knives until coarse. Set aside.

In another bowl, combine the dry ingredients (flour, oats, sugar, and baking powder). In a different bowl, combine all the wet ingredients (milk, oil, egg, and vanilla). Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and blend well.

Fill muffin cups 2/3 of the way full, then top each muffin with a 1 tablespoon streusel mix. Bake 18-20 minutes until golden brown. Let cool 5 minutes, then serve and enjoy!

Nothing says “good morning” like muffins from the oven! They are the perfect little day-starter for guests during the holidays.

Oatmeal Muffins with Streusel Topping

Lillian Nelson is the chef and manager at New Earth Market. Raised in Hawaii, Lillian has lived in the Yuba-Sutter area for 29 years. She has been married for 35 years and has three children. She has been cooking for 39 years, and it has always been her passion. At 10 years old, she was taught by her Asian mother how to infuse flavors. She taught herself to cook different ethnic foods, vegan and veggie dishes, and healthier recipes with less fat but great flavors. She loves making soups from scratch and could eat a good, homemade soup seven days a week. She enjoys throwing ingredients together to make different dishes for family and friends.

Very Merry Holiday Muffinsby Lilian Nelson

Photography by Brandi Schwartz Design & Photography

20 ME AND MINE MAGAZINE | WINTER 2015

ME AND MINE MAGAZINE | WINTER 2015 21

What are Loose Parts?Loose parts simply means moveable

materials that children can use in their play. They can be re-imagined, combined,

redesigned, taken apart, and put back together in creative ways. They are

materials with no specific set of directions that can be used alone or combined with

other materials. Examples are:

Why Loose Parts?There are many reasons why play

should include loose parts, including:

• Providing daily inspiration • Having endless possibilities • Giving children a chance to think

and rethink

Encouraging Creativity Now that you know all about those loose parts, let’s make a Christmas Clay keepsake that is endless, easy,

cheap, and fun for all ages.

• Pieces from nature• Rescuable items (boxes,

bottle caps, containers, old buttons)

• Old parts (old tools, broken pieces, toy parts)

• Scraps (paper, fabric, beads, yarn, wire, ribbon, wood)

Lm

plare

matha

s

Contributed by Staci Howell, Playzeum, Children's Play Museum of Yuba-Sutter

Photography by Brandi Schwartz Design & Photography

22 ME AND MINE MAGAZINE | WINTER 2015

1531-A BUTTE HOUSE ROAD YUBA CITY, CALIFORNIA 95993

(530) 822-7505

www.sutterkids.org

H MEmadeHolidays are theBest H lidays!The holidays are the perfect time to learn through play. A great way to do this is to work on holiday craft projects with your kids! Here’s one you can try at home!

Peppermint CANDY RNAMENTSWhat you’ll need:

• peppermint candies

• metal cookie cutters

• non-stick cooking spray

• parchment paper

• toothpick or skewer

• twine or ribbon

DIRECTIONS: Preheat oven to

350F. Line a baking sheet with

parchment paper. Spray the inside of

each cookie cutter with cooking spray.

Lay cookie cutters on baking sheet

and fi ll with a layer of peppermints.

Bake for 3-9 minutes. Keep an eye

on candy as it melts and remove

from oven when candies have

melted together.

Lightly coat a toothpick with cooking spray and

use it to make a hole in each group of candies. Let candy sit

inside cookie cutter until it re-hardens. Once hard, carefully

stretch out the cookie cutter, pulling it away from the candy,

to pop out your ornament.

Voila! You and your little one have

made an ornament the whole

family can enjoy! For more great

holiday craft ideas, visit our

Pinterest and Facebook pages.

Credits: Photos and project courtesy of hello-homebody.com

Here's what you need:2/3 cup salt 1/3 cup baking soda 1/3 cup of water1/2 cup cornstarch Plus those loose parts*Optional: glitter to add to the dough

Here's what you do:1. In a small saucepan, mix the salt and

baking soda with 1/3 cup of water and bring to a boil. 

2. In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch and 1/4 cup of water and stir well (give the kids this task).

3. When the salt mixture boils, remove it from the heat and add the cornstarch mixture. Stir vigorously for a minute or two to thicken the clay.

4. Spoon it onto a sheet of waxed paper and allow it to cool before working with it.

5. Then you shape, decorate, and create with your new dough and loose parts! 

6. Let the creations dry on waxed paper for 24 to 48 hours.

ME AND MINE MAGAZINE | WINTER 2015 23

Staci Howell lives in Yuba City with her husband Jeff. They have three girls, ages 2, 4, and 9. She has a B.S in child development and is currently in her third semester of a Master's program in Early Childhood Special Education. She is a part time stay-at-home mom, while also working part time as a consultant and the new Co-executive Director at the Playzeum. She has a passion for empowering parents with young children.

24 ME AND MINE MAGAZINE | WINTER 2015

Me and Mine is so thankful for the local businesses that fill the pages of our magazine. Without these advertisers,

we simply would not exist. You may or may not have noticed, but this is a FREE publication. You’ve never paid for

an issue. Not for the one that you pick up at your local market, or the one that arrives directly in your mailbox.

The reason that you’re not charged is because of the advertisers that have made the decision to share their

business in Me and Mine. So please remember to shop local this season. Let these businesses know that you learned

about them through our magazine. We would appreciate it, and also know that our community will appreciate the dollars

you are spending locally. We hope you enjoy this beautiful season of giving! We wish you and yours a wonderful holiday

season and look forward to another exciting year ahead.

Much love to you!

Me and Mine Jen, Rona, Fritzie, & Jessica

Cowboy BBQ is a favorite in the kitchen. Known for their award-winning seasonings, barbeque sauces, and relishes, their products are sure to be the perfect gift for the hostess, the grill master, or even for the hard-to-buy-for on your list! Cowboy BBQ can customize a special gift package for you or you can always find their products at the following locations: Sunsweet Gift Outlet, The Crave, Raintree Car Wash, New Earth Market, Granzella’s, The Brick Coffee House, and Manzanita Market. To purchase a gift package or customize your own, contact Cowboy BBQ at 530.713.8654 or www.cowboybbq.com

The Face & Body Bar with Beautifully Bronze is the place to relax with a massage or facial, or to get your holiday glow with a gorgeous spray tan. The holidays are the perfect time to treat yourself, and to look and feel fabulous for all of your holiday parties and festivities. Don’t forget to put gift certificates to The Face & Body Bar with Beautifully Bronze on the top of your list; they’re perfect for sisters, girlfriends, teachers, cousins…or even yourself! Visit The Face & Body Bar with Beautifully Bronze at 391 Del Norte in Yuba City.

ME AND MINE MAGAZINE | WINTER 2015 25

26 ME AND MINE MAGAZINE | WINTER 2015

Kittle’s Outdoor & Sport Co. has gifts for every hunter and fisherman on your list. Whether you’re looking to fill stockings full of goodies or purchase a larger present for under the tree, a trip to Kittle’s Outdoor & Sport Co. will make someone very happy! And if you’re too overwhelmed to make the decision yourself, gift certificates are also available. Kittle’s Outdoor & Sport Co. is located in Downtown Colusa on Market Street, or you can always find them at www.kittlesoutdoor.com

Hit the holidays with spectacular style! Or even better, give it as a gift! Poppies is a locally-owned boutique dedicated to bringing top-quality women's fashions and unmatched customer service to the Yuba Sutter area. Come shop brands such as Brighton, Hobo, Habitat, Nomadic Traders, CMC, FDJ, and Holly Yashi. Looking for a gift? Ask about our Wish List program, pick up a gift certificate, or let our knowledgeable team help you choose that special something. When you stop by to see us make sure to mention “Me & Mine” to receive 15% off your in-store purchase (discount not valid on purchase of gift certificates)! From all of us at Poppies - Happy Holidays! 669 Plumas Street, Yuba City.

Who doesn’t love cookies? They are the perfect gift for your hostess, teacher, neighbor, boss, or friend, and you can check them off your list with a sweet treat from The Cookie Tree, made fresh daily & beautifully wrapped in your choice of colorful cellophane and ribbons. Their baked goods can also be a delicious treat for your family gathering! They offer coffee cake and muffins for breakfast, as well as after-dinner dessert choices of delicious cheesecakes, brownies, cupcakes and their famous bars. The Cookie Tree will also ship your gift! Just call ahead & they will have your order ready to pick up or ship. They also offer many sugar-free options as well. During the busy holiday season, The Cookie Tree is also a wonderful option for a quick time-out with kids, friends, or family. Stop in for a coffee or espresso and any one of their gourmet desserts. 441 Bridge Street, Yuba City

Give the gift of STYLE this holiday season, and surprise your sweetie with new sunglasses for Christmas! Angela and Jeff at Milani Optical are there to help you make the perfect choice from their amazing selection for both men and women. They have every style imaginable, from elegant and chic to stylish and sporty. Milani Optical carries all the latest brands, such as Ray-Ban, Dior, Spy, Maui Jim, Oakley, and Gucci, just to name a few! Gift certificates are also available. If prescription glasses are what you're looking for, Milani Optical has an on-site lab and over 50 years combined experience for all your eyewear needs.   644 Plumas Street, Yuba City

ME AND MINE MAGAZINE | WINTER 2015 27

Creative Interiors is the place to find the perfect gift for every woman on your list. From holiday decor to jewelry, fine gifts for the home, and of course Vera Bradley, you’ll be able to find something for everyone. Stop into their beautiful store on Plumas Street in downtown Yuba City; their staff is always happy to help with your selection and also beautifully wrap it for you, free of charge! Mention ME & MINE and receive 15% off your entire purchase! Merry Christmas from Creative Interiors! 642 Plumas Street, Yuba City

Everyone needs to feel fancy and polished around the holidays. Let Polished Salon and Spa get you camera-ready! Their estheticians specialize in holistic anti-aging treatments, enzymatic peels, deep pore cleansing and eyebrow shaping. Hair colorists are also available, so that you can achieve that perfect color, balayage, or new designer cut. From hair to skin to nails, Polished Salon and Spa will have you looking your best. And a gift certificate for services or products will be a hit for anyone on your list! Polished Salon and Spa is located at 1002 Live Oak Blvd, Suite A, Yuba City

Cupcake Magic would like to help make your holidays a little sweeter with 6 different made-from-scratch pies, pumpkin cheesecake, Dutch Caramel Apple pie and more! Cupcake Magic also has macaroons, handmade chocolates, cake pops, and of course, cupcakes! Gluten Free is no problem; we always offer gluten-free options. So come check us out and see what we can do for you to make YOUR special day a little sweeter. Happy Holidays from Cupcake Magic! 728 Plumas Street, Yuba City

Decor with a Past is located in Historic Downtown Marysville, and is your "go-to" spot for new and vintage home decor. They specialize in Annie Sloan Chalk Paint®, Wood Icing, Artisan Enhancements, Modern Masters Metal Effects, and Stencils & Workshops.Dazzle everyone on your shopping list this holiday season with unique stocking stuffers and perfect treasures for under the tree from Decor with a Past. 323 D Street, Marysville. 530.763.5795. Decorwithapast.com

28 ME AND MINE MAGAZINE | WINTER 2015

Digs is full of fun, vintage home furnishings, accessories & collections, amazing artwork and great design ideas. Come to historic downtown Marysville to visit Digs for trendy vintage holiday gifts for the collector and creative home decorators on your shopping list this season! 322 D Street. 530.743.3447

Rustic Elegance by Della, interior design specialist. It’s not just about furniture and amazing accessories—it’s about creating an interior space that suits your style! Every item in the shop is hand-picked; some are by local artists, while others come from all over the world. Let Rustic Elegance fill your home with wonder & beauty for the holidays! Rustic Furniture, Home Décor & Fine Gifts.419 D Street . Marysville . 530.743.7644

Give the gift that lasts a lifetime! Hoybjerg Orthodontics embraces every patient as an opportunity to change lives through a healthy, beautiful smile. Our team’s extraordinary customer service and quality of care will create an amazing experience for anyone on Santa's list with the gift of an orthodontic journey to a new gorgeous smile! Let us help you with a gift sure to make anyone smile.1215 Plumas Street, Suite 1101. Yuba City. 530.751.1225 Hoybjergortho.com

Image Salon and Day Spa is a perfect place to get beautified. Voted Best of Yuba Sutter Day Spa for 2015, we specialize in HydraFacials, which are a great way to treat, exfoliate, and hydrate the skin. Just want to relax? We offer custom facials, massages, manicures, pedicures, and even an amazing aqua polish. Image Salon and Day Spa is also an Aveda concept Salon, where each member of our Hairstylist Team is Top Notched trained on color and cuts, plus all Aveda products are up to 97% naturally derived to help maintain healthy hair. Image Salon and Day Spa is a perfect place to treat yourself or that special someone in your life. Gift cards are available at our Salon or online at www.imagesalonspa.com. Call and book your appointment today! 1548 Starr Drive, Yuba City

ME AND MINE MAGAZINE | WINTER 2015 29