Nigerian Gems: Expatriate Tales of Adventure
Divine Interventions: Travelers Tales, A Spanish Lullaby
Dead of Winter Nonfiction Contest Winning Entry: Larry, Come Out...Please
This I Believe NPR Radio Essay: Broadcast June 26th, 2009 on KUHF Houston, TX
Raising Children Is the Best Work I've Ever Done
Press Releases:
“A Child of Immigrants” Wins Pennwriters Slogan Writing Contest
Cy-Fair Magazine, Houston:
Sky High Fun Cy-Fair Couples Find Romance in the Skies
Dixie Trahan Sings Country Music for Local Audiences
Melvin Adams: Former Globetrotter Inspires Youth
Precious Pets With Purpose: Pet Therapy Benefits Residents of All Ages
AZ Daily Sun:
A Weight Off Their Shoulder
Food is Life for Supper Clubs
Making the Leap to Midlife Fulfillment
Working Wonders--Seniors in the Workplace
A Literary Legacy on Bark -- Basque Carvings
4000-Strong Walk for Cancer Cure
In the Money A Novice at the Horse Track
Parkinson's Sufferers 'Think Big'
Botanist Buzzing Over Wildflowers
Pick a Card, Any Card--Cardinals Training Camp
Northern AZ Mountain Living Magazine:
Living Lucky: Ways to Find a Fortunate Life
The Heart: A User's Guide
Keeping the Promises: Finding Ways to Sustain Personal Resolutions
Getting Personal (Time): Seeking Solitude & Finding One's Inner Self
Finding a Stable Life: Utlizing Horses for Therapy
Flexible and Accessible: A Chair Yoga Class Offers the Exercise to All Abilities
Mastering Mindfulness: Reducing Stress Through Meditation
Eastern Meeting Western: Integrated Health Embraces Both Horizons
Tiny Treasures: The Work of a Baby Rocker & Special Care Nursery
Strength in Partnership: Reinforcing Relationships Through Counseling
Moving the Midriff: Getting Physical and Spiritual with Belly Dancing
Signs of Life: One Class Teaches Baby Talk with Hand Signals
Nature's Healing Hand: Taking Supplements to Fight Illness
Revival of a Miracle: Natural Childbirth
All About Animals: Pet Photographer Bill Landau
Playing with Light: The Adventurer-Photographer Life of Dawn Kish
Hot Springs Eternal: A Verde Valley Thermal Pool
Lake View Home Tour
Nigerian Gems: Expatriate Tales of Adventure
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Co-authored & Edited by: |
Excerpt: Groundhog Day
According to legend, on February second, a furry rodent crawls from his burrow to blink at the day and gauge his shadow to determine the coming of spring or the continuation of winter. A shadow means more snow, and the lack of one, means blooms are on their way. If the same groundhog crawled from a sewage ditch in Lagos and managed to dodge the perpetual foot traffic on the side of Lekki Expressway, the sun could surely cast his reflection, but winter’s snowflakes wouldn’t appear, and on the off chance that a stray cloud passing overhead concealed the animal’s silhouette, the earth would not be renewed by spring. That reminds me of Bill Murray.
Bill Murray starred in a movie called Groundhog Day where an endless cycle of mornings dawned the same day. A replica of the previous 24-hour’s events occurred no matter how he tried to alter the course of events. And he strained through numerous opportunities. Each time Bill laid head to pillow to release the failure of another day, the alarm clock radio woke him at precisely the same time with exactly the same song to confront a day IDENTICAL to the one he’d struggled through only yesterday.That reminds me of life in Lagos.
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“The Pawlickis teach ‘clean’ eating,” said Joe Haughey. “We eat five meals a day. It speeds up our metabolism, and we don’t get hungry." Making the Leap to Midlife Fulfillment Changing careers has meant life makeovers for several Flagstaff residents. Sandy Abbajay, at 70 years young, helped set-up and establish Linens ‘n Things at the Marketplace shopping area in Flagstaff last October. It took ten days and untold truckloads of goods, but fortunately, she had the dedicated assistance of another senior, Verna Johnson. “I just can’t sit,” said Abbajay. “And besides, you can never retire from life,” she added laughing. That kind of spunk and energy is what you often find in today’s older workforce. A few years ago, Abbajay made the decision to move across the country. The fact that her children objected to her driving off to explore future options just steeled her resolve. She put her life in storage and her retirement from 20 years as a manager on hold. “I hate to use the word ‘retire.’ It creates a mindset that no one will hire you, and retirees are an untapped resource.” She obviously found the right fit because Andy Western, General Manager for Linens ‘n Things said, “I’d never thought of Sandy and Verna as seniors. You see through the ages because everyone just jumps in and offloads the trucks when they come in.” Verna Johnson echoed her co-worker’s story. After retiring from a housekeeping job at Flagstaff Medical Center, she spontaneously applied for the new store opening. Quietly and simply, she said, “I’m not the type to just sit there and let the time go by.” And there is respect with age. “When the younger employees need help, they look for me.” Meg Gonzalez, a third senior, works nearly full-time with commensurate benefits. She spoke sagely, “I don’t care how old you are, stay up with the times.” And statistics reflect that computer skills are remarkably similar for workers aged 16-69. All of these women entertain grandchildren, so look for flexibility. Western admits with her labor budget and older workers who look for fewer hours, it’s a perfect match. “You get 40 hours out of their 20, considering their work ethic and dependability.” Illiterate Basque sheepherders told of their lonely, dangerous work with carvings on Inner Basin aspens. Kevin and I arrived early to familiarize ourselves with the horses and make our picks for the first three races. We bought a Racing Program—it’s more chicken scratch than a newbie needs, but it lists the day’s sponsored races plus key racing history on each horse. Each page contains a numbered race and distance, plus the horses running in it. Suggested winners are listed in the corner under boxes for marking one’s choices to win, place and show. We banked on the tried and true adage, “Winners keep on winning, losers keep on losing,” and selected our favorites for the Third Race. Kevin and I gave marginal attention to statistics and more to horses with appealing names. We worked backwards from there. Next, we graduated to considering a Trifecta wager in the Second Race. For $12, we picked a winning horse and three others of which two need to be winners. Proud of himself, Kevin left to buy lemonade. I eyed a man at our table that looked to be engaging data and logic to choose winners. His upright posture and tally of numbers on a legal pad looked like code, so I was sure it was important. I introduced myself and asked his advice. “Have a set amount of money you’re willing to spend,” said Dave, “and then, look for a happy horse. That’s a good sign, but just have fun.” “OK, but who should I bet on in the first race?” I pressed him.
Parkinson's Sufferers 'Think Big' Although there is no known cure for the disease, a new program at FMC helps to restore muscle control and stability Botanist buzzing with excitement over wildflowers They ranged from novice earth-diggers to experienced gardeners and they studiously scribbled notes on steno pads and raised their hands to ask questions. To read more... To top of page... A man in wrap-around sunglasses and a Cardinals' jersey stood on the sidelines of the practice field. He was close enough to hear the pro players pant as they executed a drill. To read more... To top of page... Sings Country Music for Local Audiences Written by: Gail Collins, Cy-Fair Magazine, Winter 2009 The band tumbles off the stage of the Dosey Doe Coffee House, full of the happy energy that transfers from singer to listener and back again. “The people ate us up,” seems the general consensus of their acoustic set, opening for the Real Life, Real Music event. “This is the target, this is our niche,” says Dixie Trahan of her music and of the night. “We got off the stage just grinnin’.” Welcome to the Land of Dixie. Dixie Trahan, that is. She says, “Country music has always been a constant for me, whether it’s a love song or a hell-raisin’ song. It fits just about any mood. It just lets you express so much emotion.” Originally from Kansas, the singer, as the bumper sticker says, “Wasn’t born in Texas, but got here as fast as I could.” Only twelve days later. Trahan has been singing for as long as she can remember. The petite, sandy-haired singer with a generous smile says, “I grew up in a preacher’s home, but my dad was a closet music fan. When I was bitty, Barbara Mandrell had her show, and I thought, I want to do that!” Music in the Blood “We began a family and took a break from music to be normal,” she says of her stay-at-home mom decade. Still, the Trahans treated music as a lifestyle. Her sons, at 15 and 17 years old, and twelve-year-old daughter were all trained in classical violin. “The boys have a band – guitars now, you know – but my oldest can saw on a fiddle,” she says proudly. But as children grow, so can dreams. “We always enjoyed writing and singing and playing. One night, Skeeter called me in and said, ‘This is silly. This is what we love. Let’s find a spot and jump in. Let’s find out if there’s anything to it (music).’” Kegarise has been training dogs for 30 years. Her clicks and softly spoken instructions command Bonnie to start, stop, turn, and lie down. Not any dog can be a therapy dog, even if they can manage all that. Each animal is registered, tested, and insured, but must also be screened for temperament, health, manners, and attitude. “These dogs are friendly and tolerant,” says Kegarise to the students at Matzke. “You can even pull on their ears – though it wouldn’t be nice – but they can handle it because they’re trained to be with all kinds of people.” Former Globetrotter inspires Cy-Fair’s youth through basketball, comedy and words of encouragement Written by: Gail Collins Cy-Fair Magazine, Winter Issue 2009 Local resident Melvin Adams wants good things for kids and inspires them to want the same for themselves. The NBA player turned Globetrotter showman inspires youth by combining sleight of hand basketball, comedy, and motivational messages. Adams explains to students how hard work, responsible choices, and staying the course will help themrealize their dreams. “God uses ordinary people to do extraordinary things,” Adams tells youth at New Experience Fellowship Church. “Not only was I short, I was poor, my mother was abusive and my father wasn’t around.” His was a rough start, but he laces it with humor, “If you’re black, you’re from the hood; if you’re Hispanic, you’re from the barrio; if you’re white, you’re from the suburbs.” Laughter bubbles up, and Adams says, “I’m from duh hood.” Dressed in baggy jeans and a T-shirt, he looks like them. Born in the projects of Houston in 1971, Adams understands their temptations. And he challenges them to make it, too. “Your choices today will determine where you’ll be tomorrow. Drugs and alcohol will hold you back from your dreams, your vision and your purpose.” Tragic Beginnings Adams’ father died when he was thirteen, and he turned to sports for therapy. Despite his dogged dedication, his mother saw only the gaps in his performance. So, he tried harder. “All I ever wanted was my mother to tell me she loved me.” Teens understand that. Perseverance paid off for Adams with a college scholarship. He played basketball and met a coach who mentored not only his game, but his spirit. One evening, Adams sat at their family dinner table while the children chatted about their day and passed the food. He’d never shared a meal like that, and it left a lasting impression. The coach noticed Adams’ gift of talking to people and dared him to write his testimony, but cross God out of it. Like Adams steers youth today, this man pressed him to use his ability to connect with people in their struggles with their moral compasses. That coach’s insight would both confront Adams in his career and guide him through it. Cy-Fair Couples Find Romance in the Skies Written & Photographed by: Gail Collins /Cy-Fair Magazine, Spring 2010 Madiha Basit and Irfan Patel are celebrating their second anniversary with this ride. Basit confesses, “I’ve just always wanted to do it, and Irfan surprised me, hinting, ‘Your anniversary gift will come when the weather clears.’” While Turner hangs onto a rope at the balloon’s crown, the couple holds the throat open with Watson where a large fan inflates the massive sphere. This is cold-packing the balloon. Then, propane burners in the basket fire up, and she’s ready. “We use the heat to fly,” Watson says. Prior to lift-off, the couple literally learns the ropes that secure the basket and how to stay safe. “These are the things you can hold,” Watson says pointing out handles. Patel puts a reassuring arm about his wife and says, “And me.” With a whoosh from the burner, the basket and balloon gently floats up, up and away. The crew waves and Turner shouts, “The sky is yours.” The colorful craft tracks towards a local reserve where they will admire wildlife and the landscape. There are some grim and difficult things that we’re forced to learn in a lifetime. Physics homework or memorizing the driver’s manual is standard fare. But I’m talking about the things we never counted on learning. For some, it’s measuring their blood glucose for diabetes. For others, it’s filing for bankruptcy. And for my neighbor, it was dealing with your husband when he’s high on painkillers, waving a gun and threatening to kill himself. And I’ve learned how these stand-offs play out. The process of reaching such a person is a patient, drawn-out, noisy and officer-intensive affair. Seven squad cars to be exact. I noticed the number early in the evening of that golden fall day. Seven is the perfect number, and I took it as a positive sign. You look for them when it appears all hell is breaking loose. We’ve lived in our chalet-style mountain home for seven years. There is that number again. Being neighbors, you think you know people. But the reality is, even those who share our beds may not know the murky cave where pain dwells within us, wounded, selfish and scrabbling to hang on at any cost. Or in this case, making the decision not to hang on for one more minute. That was Larry. Three years ago, our neighbors sold their successful tile business. They’d just finished remodeling the inside of their twenty-something year-old home, and I assumed their uses for granite and travertine had been personally exhausted. But it was the husband who fit that description. After failed disc surgery on a long-standing back problem, he went on disability. Larry had more surgery followed by a stint in rehab for an addiction that too easily tempts a person who is in constant pain. Along the way, the scrawny man who drives a monster truck also became addicted to ink. I know this because Larry walks around shirtless, so that all are forced to enjoy the artwork tattooed on his body. Within our walls, we began to call the un-neighborly fellow Inky. As for his wife, Jade remained as gentle as our summer days here, but not as sunny. Their children also stopped speaking to anyone. Larry’s control cut them off, and the pain in that house stayed private. For awhile. At moments, Larry had been creepily nice to us, but he lacked social cues — my first clue not to trust him. A clean stream? Unlikely. He was up at odd hours of the night, wandered all day and smoked by the pack. Still, each of us has redeeming qualities despite more overt evidence to the contrary. I’d noticed an effort in the man lately and hoped good things for all of them. The conversations I’d overheard with his son on car maintenance and the like had been tender and intended to mature Allan into a man. It was early evening on that golden fall day as the painters loaded up their trucks at the neighbors’ home. Their youngest daughter giggled in the driveway with their Saint Bernard who acted like the kind of goofy dog that makes girls giggle. Jade, now employed at the hospital, was hosting a charity jewelry party, so an inordinate number of healthcare workers were arriving. At 5:45 p.m., I stood at my front door as three cars nosed into our circle. A few of the ladies milled about, so I waved to them. Then, I caught sight of some police cars. Two more screamed around the corner before pulling halfway into front yards the far end. More police arrived as I hurried out. In the quarter-hour it had taken me to comb my hair and apply make-up, the world beyond my front door had morphed from Beaver Cleaver Street to a scene from Dragnet. “Jade, what’s going on?” I said.
A Weight Off Their Shoulders
By Gail G. Collins
AZ Daily Sun, Business
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Common Goal Realty took their name to heart with team building for health. They revolutionized the office refrigerator with lean meats, sugar snap peas, fruit and protein drinks. Their energy levels soared and carried over to their personal lives. Lenders don’t bring sausage biscuits to meetings anymore because the staff recoils.
Valerie Caro, co-founder with father Joe, confirmed this, “I’ve eaten more than ever before in my life and lost weight.”
Sarah Pawlicki of Build Yur Own Body Gym works with local employers to get a handle on good health to reap radical results. She evaluates businesses to establish needs particular to their workplace.
Does a job require small, repetitive movements? Or are injuries from heavy lifting a concern? Could your team of desk jockeys be at risk due to poor ergonomics? And is absenteeism on the rise?
Other consultants assess companies, but simply hand employers a report and walk away. Pawlicki, a certified Sports Nutrition Counselor and Life Style Fitness Coach, implements the fix. She organizes classes in diet and tobacco cessation, for example, or designs and teaches a workout program to address specific problems.
“Americans should be the healthiest people in the world when you look at how much money is spent, but not enough attention is given to preventative care,” said Pawlicki.
She utilizes mind, body and soul and explained, “We’re not solely focused on your weight or lifting weights in our gym. The attention is on emotional and physical well-being.”
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By GAIL COLLINS
Special to the Sun
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Willie and Terry Schick hoisted their wassail cups with eight longtime friends as they celebrated Hanukkah in Italy. The festive table held an appetizer of artichoke and fennel ravioli, and the menu promised beef brisket with marsala and mushroom sauce as well as happy conversation.
In an era of fast times and fast food, a supper club is the antithesis. Dishing with friends values quality of food and time over speed. And that is its allure. This is the height of party season. Only Scrooge didn't find himself at a party for the holidays -- wait, even he had an invitation! But why shouldn't folks indulge in food and fellowship throughout the year?
PASSION FOR FOOD
Supper clubs have been growing in popularity over the last decade, but some have been at it for decades like the Schicks. Truth be told, most groups start out as like-minded strangers who become a tribe of foodie friends.
Willie Schick said, "After 34 years, we are very much a family."
Groups can be formed from gym associations, Mothers' Nights Out programs, work and more. The passion for food is key.
The Schicks' five senior citizen couples call themselves the Foreign Food Group, taking up a different nationality's fare for each gathering.
"My husband and I lived in Poland, Washington," said Willie Schick, "and as a part of the Newcomers Club at Washington State University, we ate wonderful food. I began saving all the recipes."
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By GAIL COLLINS
Special to the Daily Sun
Sunday, September 07, 2008, Front Page
Stacey Wittig believed in her destiny. She left a six-figure pay-check and 21 years as an advertising consultant with Dex Media Yellow Pages behind. Wittig had only 2Ãn years until retirement when her company wouldn't give her time off without pay for a mission trip.
"I had to keep my commitment to the mission team," Wittig said, "If I had to quit my job, so be it."
Today, as a writer and marketing consultant, she doesn't come close to her previous corporate earnings, but said, "After spending three weeks immersed in poverty in Africa, it's difficult for me to spend money the way I did."
She traded working late nights and buying services for cooking her own meals, cleaning her own home and spending time with family.
"My life certainly changed. I'm at a slower pace, my blood pressure is down ... and I'm developing a coffee import business that will connect impoverished farming families in Third World countries with Mom and Pop coffee shops that are looking for exotic Fair Trade coffees."
'IT HAD TO MATTER TO ME'
Jim Anderson, another high-salary earner, took a two-step transition in midlife. He moved from marketing and sales for companies such as Nielsen to work for Public Radio at KNAU, before forming a partnership with Alice Ferris at Goalbusters.
Anderson faced life's priorities and asked, "Do I sacrifice quality of life and my children's stability for my career or do I quit my job?"
Then, he added the clincher, "I'm not going to shovel coal into someone else's machine again. It has to matter to me."
Before, Anderson built stock portfolios. But now, at 44, he said about fundraising for nonprofits at Goalbuster: "We empower individuals and organizations -- making the world a better place. We develop and nurture relationships and community stories with infectious passion.
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Working Wonders
Seniors provide experienced, flexible labor source
By GAIL COLLINS
Special to the AZ Daily Sun
Monday, August 11, 2008, Front Page
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By GAIL COLLINS
Special to the Daily Sun
Monday, August 25, 2008
When Santiago Parra carved his name and the date, 1970, into an aspen tree on the Inner Basin Trail, he marked the end of an era. Parra made his lines thin and neat. As the tree grew and stretched, his marker would remain attractive, legible and a witness to his having herded sheep near Lockett Meadow.
The carvings, made solely on aspens, are called dendroglyphs. This historical graffiti mingles with contemporary proclamations of love. Though there are scores of significant carvings, one wouldn't notice them for the sheer number of marks on the trees along this popular trail. Forest Ranger Heidi Strickfaden, who led an interpretive hike Saturday as a partnership event between the U.S. Forest Service and the National Park Service, said, "The carvings are important to ethnologists because we can track the Basque life in this area. They are like a ledger for a hotel."
The etchings give names, dates, home territory and even pictures to tell us who passed this way. Who were these Basque sheepherders and how did they end up in Northern Arizona?
DISPERSED TO THE NEW WORLD
The Basque are thought to be the original European peoples. This ethnic group chiefly inhabits a region that covers north central Spain and southwestern France. Their language resembles no other European language, and their ethnic ties and culture are as fiercely defended today as throughout their past.
Tradition gave all property to the eldest son, leaving the other males in a family to find land as they could. By the 1700's, there was no available land left in France or Spain. This forced men to seek their fortunes elsewhere in the world. They joined the Merchant Marines in large numbers, but their history of migration had begun two centuries earlier -- a Basque crew sailed Columbus to the New World.
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4000-Strong Walk for a Cancer Cure
By GAIL COLLINS
Special to the Daily Sun
Sunday, August 17, 2008, Front Page
The American Cancer Society reminds us in its ads that cancer touches everyone.
Even me. We all saw the commercial. A woman trudges uphill to the narration, "I can do this, I can do this ..." I'd seen the ad 50 times and wondered -- something was familiar about her.
The woman is Ann Eagan. She was also co-chair for Saturday's 20th anniversary Climb to Conquer Cancer, a cancer survivor and -- come to find out -- an old college friend.
"Until 2007, I climbed simply for friends, family and co-workers," Eagan said. "Then, I was diagnosed with intravascular lymphoma." She explained that the rare, aggressive cancer is dubbed the "Great Impostor" for its difficult diagnosis and, too often, confirmation only by autopsy.
Eagan received her final chemotherapy treatment only days before last year's climb. But she walked the first mile, then husband Tony and two friends pushed her wheelchair up the balance of Snowbowl Road. Despite her struggle, Eagan emerged last year as the climb's highest individual fundraiser.
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In The Money
Even a novice can spend a fun day at the track—especially when the winners come in
AZ Daily Sun, Front Page
Sunday, July 6, 2008
By Gail G. Collins
In the movie Seabiscuit: An American Legend, jockey John “Red” Pollard is asked to breeze a horse? What on earth is that, I wondered? I soon found out that breezing means to let a horse run easily with little encouragement—in Red’s case, it could nearly kill a guy. After that, I wanted to see a real race.
There is nothing like hands-on experience, so my brother-in-law, Kevin, and I headed out to Coconino County’s 53rd Annual Horse Races at Fort Tuthill. 15,000+ people attend the event from July 4-7 which boasts the only live horse racing in Arizona on Independence Day weekend. Monday is Family Fun Day with activities and free admission.
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By GAIL COLLINS
Special to the AZ Daily Sun
Friday, July 25, 2008, Front Page
Larry Gold stretched his arms wide and reached to the left, mimicking Cindy Thomann, a physical therapist at Flagstaff Medical Center.
"What kind of effort is that on a 1-to-10 basis?" Thomann asked him. "An 8," Gold answered.
"What can you do to make your movements bigger?" Thomann asked, then watched.
"That's right, hold your chin up and extend your hand. Catch those raindrops," she encouraged in a loud, firm voice with a positive bent. "Are you tired or thirsty?"
"Yeah, thirsty," said Larry and smiled, "but I'll have to get it."
This is the point of Think Big, the new program to bring Parkinson's Disease sufferers back into the world they knew before diagnosis. It's not the dramatic things that cut the deepest with compromised health; it's the frustrations they bring to simple pleasures.
Think Big builds confidence through exercises for stability in functional activities. For Gold to stand without falling, stride across a room and pour water into a glass is a hierarchy of tasks. One skill builds upon another, incorporating social and community interaction.
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By GAIL COLLINS
Special to the AZ Daily Sun
Monday, July 28, 2008, Front Page
"It's a matter of stewardship," botanist Gwen Waring said to the 25 enthusiasts gathered for the annual Wildflower Walk at the Flagstaff Arboretum on Saturday. "As our ecosystems are disturbed and changed, we need to provide a refuge for our native plants that also welcomes animals into our garden. "I take an evolutionary approach," Waring said. "There are 110 conifers, and they are ancient creatures. But flowering plants are so much more diverse. They developed strategies for pollination as they evolved. These exploded in the Cretaceous Period, evidenced by fossils from that time."
Billed as a "Celebration of the Evolution of Flowering Plants," Waring's talk quickly focused on the birds and the bees. And moths and butterflies. And hummers -- the tiny, zipping, territorial kind. Attention turned to these pollinators as Waring reached over to pluck a Golden Columbine. She noticed a bee, rolling in the anthers of a nearby flower to gather pollen and drew our eyes to the unsuspecting buzzer.
Delightedly, Waring giggled and said, "Ah, sex. It's just the way of the world, and we just need to relax and let it happen." She means we need pollinators to continue the life cycle.
By GAIL COLLINS
Special to the AZ Daily Sun
Sunday, August 03, 2008, Front Page
Suddenly, a kicker walked up and asked, "Hey, where'd you get that jersey, man? T.J. Maxx?" Caught off guard, the fan said, "No, I got it for Christmas."
Both men wore No. 1 and grinned at each other.
Then, in characteristic good humor, Neil Rackers laughed and slapped the man on the back as he said, "You got ripped off."
Welcome to Cardinals training camp at NAU in Flagstaff, where "It's all about the kids" and it's easy for every adult to become one again. You're close enough to reach out to a player or have them reach out to you. Throughout 30 practices and games over four weeks, players indulge fans with autographs and a sneak-peek at upcoming season action.
Nature's Healing Hand
Mountain Living Magazine October, 2007
By Gail Collins
In the past few years, the small packets have invaded. They fill up desk drawers at work, kitchen cabinets at home and purses and backpacks. The best-known brand is Emergen-C. They boast themselves as “super energy boosters” and champions of immune defense. They are envelopes of a dietary supplement powder. And when cold and flu season unleashes itself across the region, people reach for them.
Emergen-C has become one of many more natural ways to fend off illnesses and control symptoms. In an era where nearly every disease and ailment has a designer medication aimed to cure or curb it, more people are seeking the right balance of vitamins, minerals and natural herbs to solve their problems. They can be less expensive than many over-the-counter medicines without the litany of side effects.
For battling the old arch enemies the cold and flu, Vitamin C and Echinacea are popular choices. Rebecca Cooke of WindFlower Natural Medicine agreed. “One of the most effective herbs for treatment and prevention of the flu, Echinacea has been shown to inhibit influenza virus in cell cultures.” She also suggests elderberry. “It appears to prevent viral attachment to cells.”
Land of Dixie
Her father retired from the church when Trahan was nine years old and drove the family of four around in a van, singing in venues all over North America. After three years of wandering, they bought a fixer-upper in Missouri to serve as a home base during many more years of touring. In fact, Trahan met her future husband, Skeeter, in Louisiana performing. After a letter-writing campaign, Skeeter came to Missouri and learned to play the bass from Trahan’s brother. “He called his mother and said, ’I’m staying.’” Trahan says with a laugh. “He even went on the road singing and playing with our band for about 16 months.”
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Precious Pets With Purpose:
Pet Therapy Benefits Cy-Fair Residents of All Age
Written By Gail Collins, Cy-Fair Magazine Fall 2009
Eric Harris sits with an open book in his lap, but doesn’t say anything. Bonnie, the collie snuggled next to him on a blanket in Matzke Elementary Library, waits. She noses the boy’s arm to read. Eric pats the dog, his grin grows, and he begins. Reading is an adventure in itself, but when a child shares the story with a four-legged friend, they’re more eager to embark on it. That’s the point of BAK-PAK Critters Reading Program. Canine Behavior Specialist Mary Kegarise created the buddy system to encourage confidence and skills as children cozy up for reading. And Cy-Fair residents of all ages, from kids to seniors, are getting the opportunity to experience the positive impact it can have on their lives.
Friendly and Tolerant
Holding a compass in one hand, Doug Watson releases a purple helium balloon with the other, noting the currents at various altitudes as it floats away. As Chief Pilot and owner of Air Texas Balloon Adventures, he will use this information to steer his craft – a hot air balloon – and plot the direction of an upcoming trip. “The whole idea is to get us airborne in a safe manner,” he says. He then unrolls a map to check angles. “When flying in an urban area, we look for places to land in an hour’s time, so the crew can pick us up,” he says, noting the crew as myself, Watson’s wife, Kathryn, and Dixie Turner. We will chase the balloon, and welcome Watson and his passengers back to Earth upon landing
Preparing for Flight
In a parking lot, we drag a heavy, four-by-five-foot woven basket with a leather base from Watson’s trailer. Next an enormous fabric package is brought out. Everyone helps prepare for the flight, and for the excited couple who booked the trip, this adds to their happy energy. “I run a cheap airline – no restrooms on board, no seats or seat belts,” Watson jokes and says, “and yet, they come.”
At 120,000 cubic feet, Watson operates the largest balloon in Houston. Sport models range from 55-90,000 in size. The basket weighs 300 pounds as does the envelope, or balloon and none of it feels lighter than air. The balloon emerges like a fabric snake from its bag. Balloons like boats are christened, and unfurled, Blue Drifter’s checkerboard pattern of dominant blue, pink, black and white is revealed. The sun peeks above the rooftops and everyone revels in the glorious sunrise. “We pick the morning for rides because we get the calmest winds. Afternoon flights are rare,” Watson says.
Lifting Off
Dead of Winter Nonficftion Contest: Third Place Winning Entry
Larry, Come Out...Please
Press Releases:
“A Child of Immigrants” Wins Pennwriters Slogan Writing Contest
PHILADELPHIA, PA (2/28/2010) - When Pennwriters held a contest in January to find a new slogan for its highly-rated online courses, writers from nearly every continent flooded the organization with entries. After careful consideration, the winning slogan is “Building Careers, One Course At A Time.”
Gail G. Collins, a journalist for the Arizona Daily Sun and co-author of the book, NIGERIAN GEMS: EXPATRIATE TALES OF ADVENTURE, was the contest winner of the $100 credit for any Pennwriters online course in 2010. She resides in Houston, TX. A child of immigrants, winning is nothing foreign to this well-traveled journalist. Gail has won a short story writing contest before. Her Web site is http://www.gailgcollins.com.
Contest rules called for slogans ideally no longer than seven words. The slogans had to speak to students’ needs for knowledgeable helpful instructors and ways to improve their writing careers--which are strengths of Pennwriters.
ABOUT PENNWRITERS ONLINE COURSES: Pennwriters has a high satisfaction rating for its online courses and workshops, with 95% of its students learning "new information" and 92% indicating great value for the price. Most of its students become repeat customers. For more information about its courses on, among other subjects, marketing for writers, plotting stories that get published, and crafting queries that sell books to agents and editors, visit http://tinyurl.com/PennwritersOnlineCourse.
ABOUT PENNWRITERS, INC: Pennwriters is a sharing family of hundreds of authors, editors, and booksellers. Originally started in Pennsylvania, its membership now spans the United States and around the world. Pennwriters mission is to help writers of all levels--from the novice to the award-winning and multi-published--improve and succeed in their craft. It runs an annual writers conference that will be held in Lancaster, PA on May 14-16, featuring bestselling thriller writer James Rollins and instructors of its online courses. For more information, visit http://www.Pennwriters.org.
Revival of a Miracle:
The Gravitation Back to Natural Childbirth
Gail Collins
Mountain Living Magazine, August 2008
The couples talked intimately and tenderly. They touched one another in the same way as they moved around the room’s mock labor stations. Backs were kneaded and acupressure applied utilizing tennis balls in tube socks and paint roller covers. The group progressed from wariness to confidence in the third session of the class “Preparing for Baby.”
Kelly, a Registered Nurse at Flagstaff Medical Center, rocked and swiveled atop a birth ball — a rubbery ball about 30 inches in diameter — reassuring the parents-to-be with her smiling voice. It’s about information allaying fear.
In Pooh’s Greatest Adventure, a book these mothers may soon read to their child, Christopher Robin cheers, “You are stronger than you seem, braver than you believe and smarter than you think.” These mothers will prove it when they birth. In an ancient rite, they will yield to pain, allow their body to do its work and push life forward. And — in recent years and greater numbers — mothers have been able to empower themselves with natural childbirth.
For the first half of the 20th century, childbirth moved from giving birth at home with little to no medical intervention to giving birth in hospitals. This shifted the view of birthing from natural process to medical procedure, which offered the potential of a less painful labor. Many women went the route of hospitals, but it came to disconnect them from their bodies.
By the 1940s, doctors began to sedate mothers into unconsciousness and deliver babies with forceps. Dr. Robert Bradley, who would come to advocate for natural childbirth, called it “knock-em-out, drag-em-out obstetrics.” Other routine obstetric interventions had surfaced over time, including the hand-strapping of laboring women and the 12-hour monitoring of newborns away from the mother.
Fortunately, the last few decades have brought a steady return to natural childbirth. These days, it is almost the norm. Assistance comes less with drugs and forceps and more with education and natural methods. Flagstaff has evolved with this trend and grown into a birth-friendly town. Along with 11 different birthing and parenting classes offered at FMC, an established midwifery offers the home birth option — the least medical and most natural path.
Mary Ann Baul owns and works with certified professionals at Womancare Midwifery Center. She earned her midwifery degree in 1982 and became an RN a decade later. Her clients include professors, doctors, nurses and highly educated people who choose home birth for its specialized care.
“Eighty-seven percent of women with low-risk pregnancies are candidates for a home birth,” Baul said. Attentive care and early transport to FMC without haste account for the remainder. “Women self-select,” meaning they don’t opt for home births with conditions like lupus, high blood pressure or multiple pre-term history. She said, “I get the cream of the crop — women who are motivated to have a healthy and positive birth experience.”
Her hour-long appointments shape an intimate, holistic relationship that covers stress, family health, nutrition and notably, empowering women. “I was born to do this,” Baul said.
When labor begins, a midwife and assistant evaluate the mother, bringing sterile equipment and supplies into the home. The team creates a sacred space for mom — rubbing her back and feet, encouraging her to eat and drink and change position — yet not interfering. A second midwife arrives for the pushing stage. “At birth, dad can help to receive or not or cut the cord or not,” Baul said.
When problems arise, Baul can resuscitate the baby, offer a whiff of oxygen — sometimes necessary at Flagstaff’s 7,000 feet in elevation, stitch tears or even give an injection. Her team stays three to four hours after birth. Mom and baby are assessed and receive an herbal bath and poultices, breastfeeding assistance, a newborn physical and, later, a birth certificate. “Most people think birth is a huge mess,” she said, “But it’s not — and we do the laundry.”
Cameron Clark, Baul’s client and first-time mother to Owen, put it this way, “I knew from the start of pregnancy that I wanted control of my environment, but I didn’t realize the added benefits of A-plus-plus service. I couldn’t imagine having my baby anywhere else (than home).”
People may think of home birth as anti-hospital, but this notion itself is dated because Flagstaff’s birthing community speaks of cooperation. Beckett appreciates midwives and Baul said, “I’m grateful for Labor and Delivery at FMC. Nursing works hard to be gracious to our clients.”
Sometimes the hospital route is needed, and for some moms, it’s the more comforting option. When mothers-to-be birth at the medical center, they are given many more choices than mothers received half-a-century ago. “Our goal is to work with each family to allow them to have the optimal birth experience,” FMC’s Director of Pediatrics and Perinatal Services Cindy Beckett said.
Staff promotes aromatherapy, visualization, affirmations, music and relaxation techniques for the gentlest birth. “Bring things that will help you create a home environment,” Beckett said.
Mom typically stays 48 hours with baby nestled in her private room and typically not carted away. Education continues here with lessons on bathing and breastfeeding baby. Despite increased numbers of working women, more than 80 percent of mothers breastfeed, so certified lactation consultants are available 24 hours a day, even after discharge.
With nearly 1,600 births at FMC last year, 60 percent of mothers required minimal intervention while 15 percent birthed naturally. Two surgical suites accommodate the unexpected, and a Special Care Level II Nursery stands ready. Still, natural childbirth is the aim. “Women need choices, and we provide a home-like birth with security. We have medical resources, but hopefully, they won’t need them,” Beckett concluded. Either way, women have more power and more choices — so they can perform the miracle they have always been built to do.
Editor’s Note: Gail Collins served as a childbirth educator for six years and she is the mother of four children birthed naturally, two born at home.
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Ways to Find a Fortunate Life Written by: Gail Collins Mountain Living Magazine, March 2010 The Collins family appears lucky. It can claim three multi-million dollar lottery winners through its relatives. One of the family wins, a Catholic brother-in-law, stopped to pray on his way home from work and used the posted hymn numbers from a service as his picks. One might say, “God is good,” but psychology experts stress the power of positive thinking and gathering good to you as well. Do people make their own luck? Burt Gershater, a licensed counselor and motivational speaker who consults with businesses and athletic teams, said, “To a large degree, we do. By hard work, by good deeds and by noticing. The more present we are, the more luck we notice.” Lucky people have purpose which provides direction. As they move through their lives, they are clued in to the indicators that direct them rather than the obstacles that block their path. Their destination is rarely a million dollars. Often, it’s education, a healthy marriage, honing a skill, opening a business, and ultimately, finding contentment in the journey to those goals. Lucky people don’t compare their lives to others, they live their own dreams. There might be a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, but Gershater said, “Don’t wait for the rainbow. It can be a long, long wait. Every step towards making your life better gets you there. There is a direct relationship to our movement, and luck begets people who instigate a path of noticing opportunities.” So, if we can chart our lucky stars, does a bad attitude thwart our progress? Heed the closing words of those Hee Haw codgers plucking at their banjoes, “Deep dark depression, excessive misery. If it weren’t for bad luck, I’d have no luck at all…” Gershater confirmed, “Pattern of thoughts or actions can create or repel luck. Positive people draw positive things. If you think you’re unlucky, you might send out energies that keep you from seeing the blessings that are out there.” In other words, what we say repetitively to ourselves and others becomes true to us. Criticizing ourselves or expecting the worst to happen creates self-fulfilling bad luck – or a blind spot for good. This is neuro-linguistic programming in action, and we should use it to focus our awareness, behavior and circumstances on recognizing the signs that guide us to our destinies. To read more... To top of page... Ways to Keep the Most Vital of Organs Healthy Written by: Gail Collins, Mountain Living Magazine February 2010 Jazz musician Joel DiBartolo has kept high-profile company by playing for 18 years on the Johnny Carson show and by suffering from the same heart condition as Regis Philbin and David Letterman. Out of the blue in 1995, a heart attack struck DiBartolo in Prescott. They called it a ‘widow maker’ for its drastic and lasting effect. Except the jazz pro lived. No follow-up care was offered, and he resumed his musical life, teaching and performing. Thirteen years later, DiBartolo felt disturbingly short of breath and headed to Flagstaff Medical Center. A diagnostic exam revealed blockages so great he was admitted for surgery. In years past, DiBartolo had sounded the bugle for funerals at Arlington Cemetery and said, “That was a life-changing experience.” Then, his own life was threatened, and he instigated change. “I have become a lighter and healthier eater. I pay more attention to myself now, and I am ready to live longer. I am extremely grateful.” How it Works Health is something we take for granted until it is compromised, yet our heart is a life or death matter. As the body’s pump for our lifeblood, a heart that beats strongly is essential and vital for longevity. Potential problems can include coronary disease, aneurysm, valve disease, arrhythmia or abnormal heartbeat as well as cardiomyopathy where the muscle is inflamed. Dr. James E. Carter with Mountain Heart said, “The Number One killer in the U.S. is cardiovascular disease and dealing with it in a comprehensive way is important. People need to understand that better. Good care helps decrease heart attack, stroke and control cholesterol.” What to Eat The role of our food can’t be denied or ignored. The Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension (DASH) or its close cousin, the Mediterranean Diet, both emphasize a low sodium approach full of fruit and vegetables and utilize healthy oils, like olive or canola. Dr. Carter said, “Both diets have been shown to lower blood pressure and are as effective as medication.” With the popularity of cable food television and chefs as icons, paying attention to food and the creative ways to prepare it makes good nutrition tasty and trendy. Form a recipe exchange group or a supper club to create a social element to eating well and enjoy mealtimes. Finding Ways to Sustain Personal Resolutions Written by: Gail Collins Mountain Living Magazine January, 2010 For gym rats, January is the worst month. Not because skating on parking lot ice terrifies more than tones or because working off stuffing leaves them winded. No, the month is bitter because New Year Resolution Reformers crowd fitness centers. Still, regulars realize that come February, Reformers will have given up and given them back the sweaty space. Losing weight or getting fit is part of the larger scheme of improving overall health. This general goal dominates the list of resolutions made at the start of each year’s possibilities. And it should. As people reflect on a year gone by, many recognize the need to regain wellbeing. Whether it’s a health check up or a body makeover, we sense that what lies within us holds the answer to a better self. Dorothy Jecmen, a licensed professional counselor with Sanctuary: A Healing Place, advised a new twist on our old pattern. “Setting goals and making resolutions can be fun if we start with the intent to be gentle with ourselves and engage the little kids inside us. Too often we make goals and try to change the negative behaviors with the critical edge that says we Need, Aught or Should make those changes.” Instead, she said, “Do it in a style that fits your personality and engages your childlike self. State the changes in a positive way. Be specific.” Licensed Therapist Ben Gallaway, who owns Enrichment Workshops and Counseling, echoed that thought. “We are creators, so look at what you want to create and put that into a daily aspect.” Pacing ourselves is important. He said, “One day at a time, we can accomplish something realistic that leads to an end. You are empowered by what you know you want to do and what you can do.” To read more... To top of page... Written by: Gail Collins Mountain Living Magazine, December 2009 Steven Kalas went to the wilderness because he was feeling alone. Life is nothing if not ironic. He was hardly alone as a single father with three children, a psychology practice and a newspaper column. “Alone,” he journaled of his trip, “is a very ordinary experience. But for most of my life, when aloneness came to visit, I would promptly vacate the premises. I was, and still can be, the master of distraction when it comes to the deeper work of being human. But this weekend, I went camping. And I invited Aloneness to come camping with me.” With personal and professional connections to Flagstaff as a behavioral therapist, Kalas is still just human and faces the same dilemma as everyone else. How do I find time for myself? Being alone is pre-meditated and purposeful, if it’s done right. And it takes practice. “The inner life is the road less traveled,” said Kalas. And we’re not doing our children any favors as we perpetuate the problem. “Today’s parents,” Kalas continued, “rush to entertain. Their solutions tend to teach children to dodge the contemplative life at all costs.” And it’s not about directing all our energies towards ourselves. He said, “Your inner life must direct your ability to love and serve others. No exceptions. If you value meeting the demands/needs of important relationships, you will tend, then, to your own garden on a regular basis. Without time spent with our inner life, people tend to have a variable grip on their core.” In a 24-hour, seven-day-a-week world, there seems to be no breaking away to nap, playing the guitar, reading a classic or lingering over coffee, let alone making time for prayer or yoga or collecting one’s thoughts on the back porch. We’re proud of multi-tasking. But the great apes rest approximately four times a day, obeying their circadian rhythms to eat, work, play and rest. And Kalas confirmed, “The soul needs tending.” Seeking solitude provides insight, dreaming, creative solutions, self-reflection and leads to harmony between heart and mind. It invites self-content. Life Coach, Norman Shrewsbury, defended personal time and said, “It is not selfish, it is simply necessary to be ‘self full’…to assist others and ourselves in what is most important. This perceived need to do two things at once is actually a cause of many social problems. When is the last time you asked someone to turn on the television when you needed to have an important meeting? Why would we want to be distracted while having a conversation with ourselves?” This is what Shrewsbury does for his clients: Teaches self-care. “We work together over time on making new habits more aligned with their values. It is simply a slow, steady process, somewhat like gardening.” To read more... To top of page... The gravel driveway leading to Valerie Hannemann’s home and office in the woods passes a horse pen. The licensed psychologist and Northern Arizona University professor, dressed in boots and jeans with a red and white checkered shirt, stands within the fenced area, calling one of her three horses. The spirited animal comes close and shoots off again. She laughs. He is reluctant, but she means to catch him. Serious then, Hannemann commands the horse several times, and it eventually accepts the halter. The horse trusts and responds to her respectful direction. “Horses are flight animals, so are built to pick up everything in their surroundings and reflect what is happening,” she said. This is what makes them valuable in the symbiosis of therapy. “I don’t use it (Equine Assisted Therapy) with everybody,” Hannemann said. “If it’s difficult to talk, I can say, ‘Let’s just go out and mess with the horses awhile.’ I’ve had some amazing breakthroughs that way. Even cleaning out the stall – a great thinking place, by the way – can work. And smells have such strong power, too.” A certified therapist helps a client to establish a relationship with the horse through grooming, walking, and sometimes, riding. Noise, aggression and disrespect hinder that connection, and often, a person’s inconsistencies, boundaries, feelings and problems surface. In short, the client asks for trust from the horse which inspires trust in the client. Autism, Bi-Polar Disorder, Attention Deficit Disorder as well as anti-social behaviors benefit from grasping the calming interactions necessary to work with a horse. Their successes increase self-esteem. To read more... To top of page.... A Chair Yoga Class Offers the Exercise to All Abilities The participants arrive at Thorpe Community and Senior Center, ready for action. Bins of equipment stand ready to offer each person maximum benefit in a yoga workout. Good wishes and grins greet Iyengar Hatha Yoga Instructor Melinda DeBoer-Ayrey as her students spread out around the room. “You have enough space there?” they ask one another and joke as they set up. Armed with water bottles and towels, the group has the gusto to pull off a challenging exercise routine in any setting. Except this isn’t just any setting. And this isn’t any group of yoga enthusiasts. This is Melinda’s Stretch & Laugh Chair Yoga class. Three of the five members that day manage with some degree of wheelchair assistance. None has any hesitation to participate. It’s an attitude that propels them through their tough days. Melinda passes out blankets rolled up as bolsters to support spines and begins with a deep breathing exercise. “At this elevation, we need as much oxygen as we can get. Mountain pose, Tadasana,” she instructs, and we sit tall. “Lift and open the chest for more oxygen. Observe air across the glands that bring more right-left brain harmony and self-affirming thoughts. Carry these with you throughout the day. Use diaphragmatic or belly breathing to focus on the ‘now moment’ and use this focus again at times of sleeplessness or challenge.” Life is an equal opportunity stressor, but this group of Multiple Sclerosis sufferers knows more than most. The class began with a request from the National Multiple Sclerosis Society which has sponsored six to eight-week sessions since 2007. Any stability or challenged individual is welcome. To read more... To top of page... By: Gail Collins Sarah held a raisin and explored it with her nose, eyes and hands before putting it in her mouth. There, she noted the fruit’s lumpy shape before chewing through its firm skin to the fleshier inside. Finally, she swallowed it, reflecting on the sweet taste. “It sounds simple enough when you describe it (the class exercise), but each member of the group agreed that we’d never experienced anything quite like it,” she assured me. This was practice in Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR). Hatch, who is with Hatch River Expeditions, is on the go. Between voicemail tag and her jaunt out of the country, I could barely catch up to her. Eventually, she said, “Now I’m not the type of person you would expect to meditate or even take a class like this. I’m a Type A business owner with two young children and an incredibly busy life.” Yet, she said, “Like many working moms, I’m always multi-tasking, feeling guilty about what I’m not accomplishing and always feeling like I’m dropping a ball somewhere.” In recent years, Sarah has suffered emotional and physical trauma and travesty, causing some depression. Following a further diagnosis of Attention Deficit Disorder, she made a conscious decision to improve her life. An invitation to reduce stress through mindfulness and focus arrived. “I was immediately hooked after the first class.” Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Nicolette Sachs, who has practiced for more than 20 years and taught MBSR for seven, said, “Mindfulness is a way of being present in the only moment when we are alive now. The focus is on what is happening within ourselves and around ourselves. Too often, we tend to the past and future. Being present in the moment is like waking up to our lives.” Realistically, this is our best chance at assessing the past for shaping future events. Oh, my aching sacroiliac. My back’s SI joint had been shooting pain through my most basic motions: sitting, standing and sleeping. Like most people, I made a doctor’s appointment. The physician only took care of backs and wouldn’t even glance at my sore knee. “Might they be related?” I asked. After an evaluation, an MRI and physical therapy, I was released, and I guess, pronounced well. Except, I wasn’t. To pursue it further, I needed a pain management specialist. The tests said all my healthy individual parts should be working, so why the twinge? I asked Licensed Acupuncturist Stephanie Selman how she could help. She said, “Acupuncture looks at you like a tree. I look at your limb, your roots, your wind and everything that affects that tree. This is Root and Branch Theory. Effectiveness depends on the practitioner and the patient who needs to feel open and tell the truth. Are you holding something in or are there addiction issues, reproductive problems…?” For fifteen years, Selman has taken a quiet approach to finding answers to those questions that determine health. “A practitioner needs to read between the lines – a wall hiding pain can hinder health. People say ‘psychosomatic”’ like it’s bad, but everything has a mind and body connection.” Next, Selman would look at my eyes, hair and tongue before taking my pulse in several places – all to check the kidney organ system which is responsible for joint and bone pain. “Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is evidence-based in that I take in a lot of information to diagnose a problem. That points me in a direction,” she said. And if it pointed to the kidney? “I would do a treatment to support that organ as well as points around the SI joint to loosen you up.” Same patient, same pain, yet the practitioners organized information, applied logic and treated the situation distinctly different. Each stems from a time-tested method. The central concept of TCM is qi (pronounced chee) and is seen as bio-electric energy in the West. It’s like the invisible substance in our mountain air that clears the mind in one breath. To read more... To top of page... Don Rhodes exudes a gentle calm. It could be the grandfatherly grey hair or tempered voice. Seated in a rocking chair, Rhodes shelters a premature infant in a red and white crocheted cap and hums. “I put them over my heart. The vibrations come through my chest to soothe them,” he says. Rhodes has been putting babies and parents at ease for nine years. “I always tell any moms or dads I see in the nursery that I’m healthy, and the baby is in good hands. I think about how they might feel if they came around the corner and saw a strange man holding their child.” But that is exactly Rhodes’ job – to hold other people’s babies who can’t be present due to work or distance or other siblings when their child requires attention. He has extensive training as a Special Care Nursery Technician to monitor the needs of these miniature beings. Nurses indicate when the babies wish to be held or fed or offered comfort or simply want to interact. They are also protective as one glared at me and asked, “Are you trying to wake my baby?” “Mother of four? Not me,” I whispered. Rhodes is the pro, however, and said, “I rub their backs or tap their bottoms to assure them that I’m here. Intuition directs me. Some like Sinatra music and some like Calypso. You have to study the baby.” To read more.... To top of page... Strength in Partnership: From the driveway to the kitchen, the same discussion played out between Liz and Janine, their wives. The gals wrapped their hands around coffee mugs, but their eyes scanned one another for subtle clues as they chatted face-to-face. Both kinds of communication have cemented these couples’ strong friendships, but intermingling the styles doesn’t always work. It often leads to criticism, defensiveness and more. Why? Along with a difference in physical equipment, men and women communicate differently. Men prefer parallel talking – picture men fishing or watching football. Then, observe women commanding attention in a tête-à-tête. “Men are more quickly emotionally flooded, and so, shut down,” said Marie Schimmelpenninck, licensed Marriage and Family Therapist at New Leaf Wellness Building in Flagstaff. “Cortisole rages, and they cannot engage. Women calm down by connecting with their eyes.” It’s that simple. And not a problem, if we use such keys to unlock the mysteries in our marriages. To read more... To top of page... Getting Physical and Spiritual with Belly Dancing By Gail Collins October 2008. Mountain Living Magazine Before I walked through the door of my first belly dancing class, I wondered, would the women be wearing yoga pants like me or would they be splashed out in vivid costumes with jangling doo-dads? I discovered most of the dancers dressed the part. And they invited me to join in! Instructor Hilary Giovale pointed to a basket of accessories where a ruby chiffon hip scarf fringed with clinking coins caught my eye. Just that fast, I was ready to shimmy and swivel. Giovale began the class with a moving meditation. “It’s a group centering exercise,” she said, “to help us focus and be mindful of our intentions.” They acknowledged the space with a lotus gesture—a symbol of the ongoing nature of life. Gratitude for music, teachers and ancestors followed with arms pulling in for the final motion that gathered these elements. Belly dancing’s vague history began over 6000 years ago, so invoking this sort of ancient attention seemed especially appropriate. This exotic dance is featured in rituals, spiritual practices, childbirth preparation, physical education, and of course, entertainment. Its earthy, fluid, complex and sensual moves of the belly, hips and upper body are punctuated by shaking and gyrating. Such physical expressions have been found etched in Egyptian tombs and painted as Persian miniatures, making it the oldest of social dances. To read more... To top of page.... Signs of Life: By Gail Collins, October, 2008 Any mother will tell you how smart her baby is. But some babies can tell you as well. A couple took their fourteen-month old son to an animal fair where the little boy especially enjoyed the snuffling pigs. A week later, the family walked by that same area with their son in his stroller. He began pushing at his nose—the sign for a pig. The parents looked at each with wonder. The pigs were long gone, but their son remembered the fun he’d had in that park recently. “Observant little babies take note of everything,” said Tami Nicholson, certified Baby Signs Instructor. “With signs, you can know what they’re thinking about at a particular moment.” There’s no guessing what that tearful face is asking for at 2 AM. If she squeezes her fist—simulating udder action—she wants milk. A yearning to establish this kind of connection with her first child, Kendall, drove Nicholson to buy the book, Baby Signs: How to Talk with Your Baby Before Your Baby Can Talk by Linda Acredolo, PhD and Susan Goodwyn, PhD. Nicholson was impressed with the bonding possible through clear, simple messages, and when she couldn’t find a class in Flagstaff three years ago, became an instructor. She teaches other parents how to interpret their baby’s tears or tantrums. It was, in fact, the desire of Acredolo’s own year-old daughter to communicate with her that led to the discovery and research for Baby Signs in the mid-1980’s. Her little one’s sniff-sniff to indicate flowers started a movement. Most babies self-create signals, in their desperation or delight, to tell us what their undeveloped vocal tract cannot. Hot Springs Eternal: By Gail Collins Northern Arizona’s Mountain Living Magazine, December 2007 As my truck skittered along FR 708 towards Verde Hot Springs, the pungency of earth and its abundance drifted through my window. People often speak of the journey versus the destination, but this trip held adventure on both accounts – a desert trek and a contemplative soak. The dirt road’s occasional ribcage of ruts kept my speed to a law-abiding 20 mph – an irony as its distance also measured 20 miles. It rose to butte views and plunged to cross a dry Fossil Creek. Hairpin bends hugged cliffs, looming like weathered faces, and after five miles, a Sharp Curve sign belatedly appeared. It teetered, the result of someone barely negotiating its particular concern. After monsoon rains, the morning brought these arid wilds to life. Hares galumphed across my path, worrisome quail gathered their coveys up, and squirrels and butterflies kept ground and air surveillance. Ocotillos promised blooms at the ends of plush, pipe-cleaner arms, and spiky medallion prickly pears already bore fruit. No wonder the draw of the Verde River for human wildlife as well. Water enhances life. An avid river runner, climber and snowboarder, Kish prefers to go and play outdoors. But she finds her passion and work in recording others interacting with nature. “Whether it’s climbing or science in the Grand Canyon, I get into what people are about — their essence — and capture it. I get to play with light. That’s my job.” At 6 years old, Kish’s early interest in other cultures led her to a shelf of old National Geographic magazines. “I’d think, ‘I want to be traveling around the world exploring like that.’” She tried painting, but it didn’t work out. “I don’t have a paintbrush, but I use different things — light, angles and energy — to get my creative across.” The self-taught Kish interned at 17 with Flagstaff photographers John Running and the late Sue Bennett. They had different methods, and she learned the business from the dark room to the licking of stamps to promote exhibits. At 23, she shot her first professional essay for Transworld Snowboard Magazine. To read more... To top of page... By Gail Collins “I learned in photography school that children and pets have universal appeal,” said Landau. So when he and wife Peggy arrived in Flagstaff in 1979, he approached the newspaper with the Pet of the Week idea to drum up business. It worked. Wednesday’s circulation received a boost and so did Landau’s popularity. After a few years and children, the Landaus moved to Iowa to be near grandparents though their horizon remained in Flagstaff, stoked by yearly hiking trips. Landau specialized in weddings for the next 20 years, chasing after 2000 brides before envisioning his semi-retirement. He made a good living, but with their children grown and gone, Peggy and Bill aimed their sights back on Flagstaff, planning to pick up where they had left off. “I’d do weddings on the weekends and hike during the week,” Landau said. He also volunteered to resurrect Pet of the Week. That was six years ago, and during that time, Landau tried to quit pet photography a few times. Somewhere along the way though, his marketing ploy became a moral obligation. In fact, Dennis Pugh, who manages Coconino Humane Association said to Landau, “ ‘You quit, and we’re out of business.’ “ To read more... To top of page... By Gail Collins Through the foyer’s glass doors, guests pass into the entertainment area. This large formal dining space abuts a resort -sized sitting room. This is where a party thrives. The beige brick fireplace rises two stories, flanked by tiers of windows, while generous panes across the back wall beckon guests into the yard. After they’ve secured a drink from the stunning bar opposite, of course.
The Heart: A User’s Guide
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Getting Personal (Time)
Seeking Solitude and Finding One’s Inner Self
Need for No Speed
Finding a Stable Life:
Utilizing Horses for Therapy
Written by: Gail Collins, Mountain Living Magazine, November 2009
Written by: Gail Collins, Mountain Living Magazine October, 2009
Mastering Mindfulness
Reducing Stress Through Meditation
Mountain Living Magazine, September 2009
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Eastern Meeting Western:
Integrated Health Embraces Both Horizons
By Gail Collins
Mountain Living Magazine, August 2009
Tiny Treasures:
The Work of a Baby Rocker and the Special Care Nursery
Mountain Living Magazine, May 2009
By Gail Collins
Reinforcing Relationships Through Counseling
By Gail Collins
Mountain Living Magazine, April 2009
Two men stand side-by-side and work under the hood of a nearly-restored muscle car. Their eyes never meet as one talks about his teenaged son and the other about his mother-in-law coming into town. From the driveway to the kitchen, a similar conversation plays out between their wives. The women wrap their hands around coffee mugs. Their eyes scan one another for subtle clues as they chat face-to-face.
One Class Teaches Baby Talk with Hand Signals
A Verde Valley Thermal Pool Beckons All Kinds
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Playing With Light:
The Adventure-Photographer Life of Dawn Kish
By Gail Collins, Mountain Living Magazine November 2007
Emerging photographer Dawn Kish’s style, with pigtails and jade Thai wrap-trousers, balanced her soft-spoken passion. Spanish guitar music played while she clicked on her computer, showing me photographs. The 36-year-old Kish has repelled from an arch in Canyonlands, run the Colorado River as a boatman and found herself the unexpected guest at an Oaxacan funeral. “That is the serendipity of my job.”
All About Animals:
Bill Landau, Pet Photographer
Mountain Living Magazine, May 2008
Animals charmed their way into Bill Landau’s life. Watching his yellow tabby, I understand. Rufus’ ears perk and haunches bunch as he prepares to attack his prey, the noiselessly spinning wheels of my tape recorder. I want to take the fuzzball home with me. And that is exactly how Pet of the Week works. Landau photographs a stray for the Arizona Daily Sun, people fall in love and take that shelter animal home.
Lake View Home Tour
Mountain Living Magazine, April 2008
I exited my vehicle under the covered walkway and paraded across the red, circular drive of the luxury home in Continental Country Club. With the splashy lake view, mine felt like a red carpet arrival in the woods.
Jim and Terry Tress, owner agents with Russ Lyon Realty Company, ushered me into their two-story foyer over which hung an enormous crystal chandelier. Jim held their small dog, christened Coco for the glamorous Chanel herself. He caught my upward glance and said, “It came from a German castle, but we don’t know which one."
Terry explained how Old World elegance once draped the home in floor-to-ceiling velvet as well. “Like they use onstage in theaters,” she said. The crimson cloaking framed every panoptic window and subsequently filled three dumpsters when the couple pulled it all down. “We tried to give it away – called theater groups in town – but no one wanted it.” The draping evoked drama, but the Tresses preferred natural light to flood their living spaces.
Jim’s office stands to the right, an ideal location for meeting clients without turning it into a family affair. And this couple had plenty of family when they moved in during the spring of 2004. They counted nine children between them. “I had six and Terry had three,” Jim said. “At one point, we had four at NAU at one time.” I imagined the alder-paneled library workplace would’ve been heaven for hiding away then. And three rows of books, shelved high and accessible by a sliding ladder that skirts the perimeter, made for practical pleasure while there.
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