Magazine Articles

Decorating comes easy for some, while others struggle with the basics of furniture placement and color choices. Then there are those of us who just do. I have no formal training—aside from a middle school Home Economics project where we created our dream house complete with carpet samples and a room-by-room floor layout. I loved that project! I would pore over my parents’ copies of Good Housekeeping and even the Sears catalog for inspiration and furniture photos to cut out for my “dream house.” It would be fun to see that project now; all I remember is a canopy bed …

WRITTEN BY GRACE THEISEN I love winter. I love winter activities like skiing and snowshoeing. I love going to the cabin, cuddling up under a blanket next to a fire and reading a good book. But even winter can be a hectic time of year. Recently, my life has been hectic. I have had a hard time keeping balanced—my faith, family, friends, school, and boyfriend (“Hi, Logan”)—and still having time for myself. In the cold of winter, wrapped up in a blanket, I took the time to write myself a few life lessons about loving myself: 1. Don’t get caught …

When the cold months blow in, Wisconsinites dig out their dormant wardrobes: large winter jackets, bulky sweaters, and layers-upon-layers in black and brown tones. Fashion can get lost with the balmy days. However, local style professionals offer fantastic advice—promoting fashion-forward looks practical enough to vanquish Jack Frost, Mother Nature, and Old Man Winter. Comfort stylist Judy Foust fell in love with Jockey Person to Person®’s clothing and concept after attending her first in-home event, The motto of “Where Comfort Meets Style” was truly evident in every item I tried on and purchased. As a Comfort Stylist, I’ve been with the …

WRITTEN BY HEATHER ROTHBAUER-WANISH For Sylvia Hedberg-Thomas, each day is a new day of opportunity, hope, and desire to build a better future. In addition to assisting her husband, Jeff (who is blind), Sylvia works at the Eau Claire YMCA, is a mother to two daughters, and is a three-time cancer survivor. Through resolute faith, family dedication, and a focus on tomorrow, Sylvia is moving forward with an optimistic outlook that defies the odds. Faith Faith defines Sylvia’s life. She professes, “Without Jesus, I feel like I would have nothing. My faith is the most important thing in the world …

WRITTEN BY GRACE THEISEN The holiday season is my favorite time of year. And I have a special way of enjoying the holidays all year long. All you need to do is make a batch of shrimp bisque. Allow me to explain. My mom is a great cook. Soups are among her specialties. She makes a tasty leek soup. Everyone loves her potato chowder. And thanks to one of her best friends, she has a special recipe for shrimp bisque. Put simply, the bisque is to die for. So, when we go to my grandpa’s house for Christmas Eve, my …

A merry Christmas season and happy New Year to all, I hope this installment finds you enjoying time with loved ones. Although this time of year can be very stressful, for me, I can’t think of a better place to be than in the kitchen baking cookies with my family or preparing appetizers or meals to share with family and friends. I like to serve this frittata at our annual Bible study Christmas celebration, and I acquired the coffee cake recipe from my friend Sue. (Thanks, Sue!) I hope you enjoy! Please share your favorite holiday and winter recipes on …

Maintaining Hopeful Holidays for Dementia Patients and Their Caregivers The holidays are poignant because of our gatherings. Families gather and, in turn, memories are gathered. Stories are told—stories of when we were younger, braver or more cautious, impetuous or reserved. Such stories stir our emotions and tickle our funny bones; but for some families, there are beloved brothers and mothers, sisters and spouses unstirred by such stories, due to Alzheimer’s and related dementias. What are holiday gatherings like in such families? How do caregivers cope? Perhaps, most importantly, how can we best care for those afflicted and their caregivers? Lisa …

Your success and happiness lies in you. Resolve to keep happy, and your joy and you shall form an invincible host against difficulties. Helen Keller Whew! We made it to December, and I am not wearing a stocking cap to bed this year. The Sorels, however, have been well worn already this season. Wisconsin women know how to remain fashion-forward even in bulky boots and big parkas. I am so excited to share our article on how we women can keep cozy and cute in the frozen tundra. As our adventure in chaos draws to a close, my family and …

Having a safe, livable, and warm home is something that most people take for granted. When was the last time you worried about being evicted or having enough money to pay next month’s rent? Unfortunately, there are families throughout the nation and in the Chippewa Valley that worry about these things each day. However, the local Habitat for Humanity organization strives to help families achieve their dream of home ownership. Through volunteerism, hard work, and community support, the organization makes a significant impact—one home at a time. Josh Rizzo serves as Chippewa Valley Habitat for Humanity’s development coordinator, and he …

Imagine being hungry and then walking into a room lined with exquisite appetizers, gourmet entrées, and professionally decorated desserts. As you look around the display, your mouth begins to water as you contemplate which food you will try first. Life could not get any better! You’ve hit the food lottery! Now, imagine walking into the same room lined with the exact same food. Your hunger is the same and your mouth is still watering. This time though, your state of mind is different. In fact, it might even feel like the worst day of your life. There is not ONE …