L’Auberge chez Francois (Photo Courtesy James Kim)

Great Falls’ legendary L’Auberge Chez François is the place to dine with that special someone during this romantic month. Here are some other items to get you in the mood.

Kate Apron, Hysteria, shophysteria.com, $250

Ferragamo Jeanette Lace Clutch, Bloomingdale’s, www.bloomingdales.com, $1,090

Sondra Roberts ‘Rose’ Satin Box Clutch, Nordstrom, www.shop.nordstrom.com, $98

John Robshaw Arial Pillow, Red Barn Merchantile, redbarnmercantile.com, $240

Year of Color September Ring, Kate Spade, www.katespade.com, $78

Starry-Eyed Skirt, Anthropologie, www.anthropologie.com, $128

Statement Tray by Mariposa, The Nest Egg, thenestegg.bigcartel.com, $39

Wood and Metal Wine Holder with Chalkboard, Wine Rack Station, www.winerackstation.com, $100.95

James Kim (L’Auberge chez Francois); courtesy of cape craftsman (wine rack); courtesy of anthropologie (skirt); courtesy of the nest egg (tray ); courtesy of john robshaw (pillow); Courtesy Of kate spade (ring); courtesy of nordstrom (rose clutch); Courtesy of hysteria (apron); courtesy of bloomingdale’s (clutch)

This year Gaylord National transported viewers of ICE! to Madagascar, which had us wanting to get into the spirit with some tribal accents.

Scrapbook Aztec Loop Scarf, South Moon Under, wwwsouthmoonunder.com, $42

Trouve Toggle Sweater Coat, Nordstrom, www.shop.nordstrom.com, $108

Tory Burch Embellished Collar Statement Necklace, Nordstrom, www.shop.nordstrom.com, $365

Waverly Lunar Sky Ikat pillow cover, Playpurdys, www.etsy.com, $36

Tribal Spike Ring, Neiman Marcus, neimanmarcus.com, $315

lack and White Tribal Sunglasses, fredflare.com, $2.99

Vintage Havana Tribal Print Slit Sleeve, www.bloomingdales.com, $53

Vintage Havana Tribal Burnout Tee, www.bloomingdales.com, $53

photos: courtesy of gaylord national (ice! photo); courtesy of bloomingdales.com (vintage Tribal tees); courtesy of fredflare.com (sunglasses); courtesy of neiman marcus (tribal ring ); courtesy of south moon under (scarf); Courtesy Of nordstrom (sweater coat, necklace); courtesy of cathy bennett (pillow)

(January 2012)

By Lexi Gray, Natalie Kaar, Lynn Norusis and Jennifer Pullinger with Matt Basheda, Buzz McClain and Lexie Ramage

Photography by Jonathan Timmes

WORK/LIFE
Women Find Balance Through Patience, Perseverance.

Many women who struggle to balance career and personal responsibilities have found that the solution might change day to day, which means it’s necessary to plan ahead and remain calm when the daily grind becomes overwhelming.

By Lexi Gray

The way women balance responsibilities is often an individualized process, making it sometimes irrelevant to compare coping methods with other female co-workers. Since each person has their own preferences and limitations, sacrifices that seem worthwhile for one woman might make another person miserable. This struggle affects women both with and without children, though the two groups face somewhat different issues.

Working moms may feel penalized at the office if co-workers or supervisors believe they are focusing too much on their home lives. Similarly, they may also feel guilty at home for focusing too much on work.

Rene Syler, author of the book “Good Enough Mother” and host of www.goodenoughmother.com, says there are times when women need to accept they won’t always be perfect as mothers.

Syler, a former co-host of CBS News’ “The Early Show,” says, “For instance, I’m not a good cook—but that doesn’t make me a bad mom. It’s important for mothers to admit that they are human, and sometimes they should work on their own needs, even if this means spending time away from their children. When women become moms, it doesn’t automatically mean they lose all their dreams, goals and aspirations. It’s fair for us to continue to learn and grow as women.”

Syler says her inspiration for the “Good Enough Mother” book and website came from several of her friends who were constantly stressed out by their own commitments at work and at home.

Kristen Quackenbush
Master Matchmakers is a powerful force in reality TV. “Tough Love,” starring the company’s founders, is now in its fourth season on VH1. Kristen Quackenbush leads the Matchmakers’ efforts in the D.C. area, cultivating healthy relationships and doling out advice, all while balancing her endless duties as a wife and mother to five, ages 1- to 17-years old.by Matt Basheda

When and how did you make the transition from hobbyist to full-time professional? I guess I’ve always sort of been just a natural matchmaker … my stepmother was my chemistry teacher in high school when I introduced her to my dad. In my prior life I was a high school biology teacher and I actually have a master’s degree, so it’s not like I went to school to be a matchmaker or anything.What are some keys to being a professional matchmaker these days, especially since the dating scene is moving more and more online? People are coming to us mostly because they’re busy and picky, and they refuse to meet someone, actually, online.

Obviously you have to be extremely social to be a matchmaker, but you also have family concerns. How do you balance work with all the family schedules? It’s tough. … It’s definitely a delicate balance, and certainly I don’t juggle it all perfectly. It does definitely cut into family time, when I’m supposed to be making dinner and hanging out with the family, and I’ve got clients that also want to talk. … but I just have to make it all work, and schedule everything, and everything in moderation. Sometimes I don’t know how I do it, I literally feel like it is a juggling act, and I’m constantly, instead of juggling three balls, I’m juggling like eight balls on fire all up in the air at the same time.

What is one mantra you seem to live by when it comes to creating a happy work/life balance? It can’t all be about the kids; it can’t all be about work. It has to be a little bit of both at all times. I’m the queen of multitasking [laughter].

“I was seeing so many women act like it was a tragedy to work overtime—like they deserved to have their kids taken away from them for working too much. Women can be so hard on themselves when it comes to family,” Syler says. “I just want to convey the idea that you don’t have to be perfect to be a good parent. It’s all right to be good to yourself, as well as everyone else. Working moms tend to put themselves at the bottom of the to-do list, but you can’t take care of other people unless you’re also taking care of yourself.”

The stress of work-life balance is certainly not reserved for working mothers, says Julie Gray, who offers organizing and coaching services through her company Profound Impact, in Arlington. “Regardless of whether or not you are a mother, I believe there is a certain type of woman—one that is driven, ambitious and type-A—who tends to work more, in the house or out of it.”

She adds, “I think some of us feel compelled to ‘do it all’ before we can give ourselves a break, before we feel we deserve a break. I think this can keep us endlessly searching for that blissful moment when our to-do list is completed.”

Single women without children may fall victim to a work environment where long overtime and travel hours are expected of them, even when they’re burned out. They may feel pressured to work and travel more than married moms, since they don’t have children at home. As a result, these women could end up working considerably longer hours than co-workers with children.

Bella DePaulo, Ph.D., is a social scientist and author of two books on the subject of “singlism”—a phrase she coined to describe how single women are stereotyped in the workplace and beyond.

DePaulo says, “When President Obama first floated the name of Janet Napolitano—a woman who has always been single—as Secretary of Homeland Security, Pennsylvania Gov. Ed Rendell said that Napolitano would be perfect for the job, because she has no life and could therefore spend 19 hours a day at work.”

DePaulo adds, “That was a bold-faced statement of a stereotype, one that a politician didn’t realize he should never have uttered.”

A National Focus on Women at Work and at Home
The National Partnership for Women & Families is a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit focused on creating a society “where nobody has to experience discrimination and all workplaces are family-friendly,” according to the organization’s website.

Vicki Shabo, the National Partnership’s director of work and family programs, says that though the issue has been discussed in the media for years, it is critical to recognize the struggle women encounter when trying to take care of their families while also meeting responsibilities at work.

“Most companies don’t have paid family leave or even paid days off when they are sick or they need to take care of a sick family member,” she explains. “As workplace culture changes, an increasing number of companies understand how retention improves their bottom line, so they begin to offer flexibility in various forms. My hope is we will see it become a standard to offer paid maternity leave and telecommuting options. Employers should offer flexibility so that workers don’t feel like they might be risking their job if they can’t work overtime.”

Addressing concerns like those voiced by the National Partnership, the White House Council on Women and Girls and the National Science Foundation (NSF) announced a 10-year plan designed to provide greater workplace flexibility to women and men in research careers. Under the “NSF Career-Life Balance Initiative,” researchers in need of time off to care for a newborn or newly adopted child would be allowed to delay or suspend grants for up to one year to fulfill those duties.

Subra Suresh, NSF director, explains the need for the initiative: “Too many young women scientists and engineers get sidetracked or drop their promising careers because they find it too difficult to balance the needs of those careers and the needs of their families. This new initiative aims to change that, so that the country can benefit from the full range and diversity of its talent.”

The government also recognized the need for more workplace flexibility in early 2010, when the President’s Council of Economic Advisors released a report stating that allowing employees more flexibility is shown to contribute considerably to a company’s success.

Sacrificing for the Future
Sarah Chi, a Fairfax resident, is a government researcher who makes significant sacrifices to sustain her career while caring for her toddler son. As her husband finishes a Ph.D. program in another state, Chi lives with the couple’s son so that she is able to keep her full-time job here.

“I was awarded my current position at the same time I graduated with my Ph.D. and found out I was pregnant,” Chi says. She continues, “It was a great opportunity, but my husband was still a Ph.D. student and couldn’t quit to move with me. We thought if we could make it through this period of time until he finishes his degree, the outlook for both of our careers would be good.”

Though Chi says the decision to live apart from her husband while taking care of their son full time makes sense, it has been a struggle. “To be honest, we were quite naïve and very brave to come up with this decision. We’re first-time parents and didn’t expect all the difficulties and chores that come with childcare at the very beginning. But on the other hand, being too rational sometimes will cause people to lose great opportunities.”

“I clearly define my schedule into several time slots, then I prioritize tasks within each slot. After work and until my son goes to bed, the priority will be all about him. If he’s fully satisfied, there will be less of a chance he’ll be cranky—which means I can have a more peaceful night after he goes to bed,” Chi says.

Positive attitude and calm demeanor aid Chi in motherly duties. “Sometimes I feel like dealing with kids is just like dealing with an emergency issue or annoying boss. When the situation is bad, it requires more emotional control. If we can keep ourselves calm, the problem will usually be solved with less effort.”

Chi does get the sense that her co-workers, friends and family are aware of the time and effort she spends on maintaining balance. However, says Chi, “It doesn’t mean they can fully understand or appreciate it.”

A Nice Balance, Despite the Challenges
Gray says that recognizing the signs of being overwhelmed will help increase balance and satisfaction. One sign of an imbalanced life, according to Gray, is “the feeling of not being able to stop because things will start falling apart. This is a pretty clear sign to me that your to-do list is running you instead of the other way around.”

Another sign, Gray suggests, includes “the feeling that you don’t have energy or time for anything other than work—that everything is an urgent priority and must be done immediately. These are classic signs of burnout and overwhelmed thinking.”

Viola Chen, of Springfield, works as an antitrust economist at the Federal Trade Commission. In March of 2010, she had her first child, a son, and took five months off to care for him. Maternity leave for Chen meant combining her paid sick and vacation days; however, after those ran out, it was mostly unpaid.

She returned to work with the goal of pumping milk daily until her son was a year old. “When I returned to work, I was lucky enough to be able to pump milk for him at the nurse’s office at my workplace. As much as I hated pumping—seriously, who would enjoy it?—I continued until my son was 11-months old.”

Chen’s efforts to balance work and home continued when her request to telework one day per week was granted. Though she was the first person in her division to request a regular telework schedule, it was already fairly common in other departments at the FTC, so Chen says: “I am not that revolutionary.”

Another challenge Chen faces is finding time to spend with her husband. “It’s not that we have any problems, but rather in the balance of child, work, housework, catching up with friends, parents/in-law visits and alone time.”

Chen adds, “One struggle I face isn’t necessarily a work/home sort of struggle but an internal one between my feminist self and my mother self. The two are unable to be reconciled.”

Yet sometimes finding the balance between work and home just takes time and practice. “I feel that at this point in my life, my family has come to a nice balance in terms of work and home life,” Chen says.

Helping Other Parents
Dr. Jennifer Canter is a board-certified, child abuse and general pediatrician, and also a mom to twin boys and twin girls. Dr. Canter hosts her own website, “Play this Way with Dr. Jen,” and in 2008 invented the U-Play Mat, a learning tool designed to promote language and social developmental play.

With all of that on her plate, Dr. Canter’s No. 1 priority is family. She lives with the expectation that an unplanned child-related issue will occur, whether it’s a sick child, a forgotten lunch, or another duty.

Dr. Cantor, who lives in Westchester County, NY, says, “I don’t see [work and life balance] as a black and white decision. There are times when mommy mode kicks in 100 percent. For example, one time my son was in the hospital with Lyme meningitis, and I made sure to stay in touch with my office but drop anything that wasn’t critical.”

According to Dr. Cantor, the purpose of her website is to create a platform that makes parents feel good. After sharing a story about how in one week she dropped her phone in the toilet, broke her toe, and then locked her keys in the car, Dr. Cantor says, “We are all balancing and juggling. I’m just open to sharing how I attempt to do it, and by no means is it easy.”

Cynné Simpson
Most might recognize Cynné Simpson as an ABC7 news anchor. But some may not know that this Howard University graduate is living her dream. Since childhood Simpson has wanted to be a news anchor, often doing interviews with a Fisher-Price tape recorder. Originally from suburban Detroit, she now lives in Arlington. Simpson came to the Metro-D.C. area to “watch history unfold” and cover the 2008 presidential race. Though she has been here for a relatively short time, Simpson has had a great impact. By Lexie Ramage

What have you learned about balancing work and social life? Well, that it’s a challenge. I’m not someone who has this completely figured it out yet. For me, work isn’t just a 9-5. This is more of a lifestyle, and so a lot of my socializing is tied into my work, and sometimes my work is tied into my socializing. So, I’ve learned how to blend the two.About what percentage of your time do you devote to work and to a social life, respectively? Are you happy with those percentages or would you like to change them? I’d say I do about 85 percent work, 15 percent downtime. And one day, not anytime soon, I hope to reverse that. But for right now, I love the work that I do. I’m so passionate about news; this is a dream come true for me doing this work. As I explained, it’s something I wanted to do since I was really young. So I feel privileged to be able to do this, and this is what I want to do. I’m not one of those people like, ‘Oh, it’s another day at work’; this is my lifestyle. This is who I am. This is what I do.

When you aren’t working, how do you prefer to spend downtime? I love to travel. I spent a lot of time traveling, and my family is spread out all across the country, so luckily they love to travel, too. We usually do three or four international trips, vacations, a year.

What keeps you going throughout the day? I’m a person of faith, and I think that gives me a lot of motivation. In this business I think that every day [you’re] working with a lot of hurdles and challenges and things that come up. I have faith in the order of things. That I don’t have to control everything, that there’s order to the universe.

Satisfaction, Not Balance
Attaining satisfaction in life starts with identifying traits of the ideal work-life balance, Gray says. “What do you want—peace of mind? A healthy body? What is satisfying for you?”

Once those main goals have been identified, they can be reached by putting new systems and rituals in place. “Most often this involves developing a practice that centers people, gives them patience, and gets them out of their heads for at least a few minutes a day,” Gray says.

Cindy Simpson, director of programs and external relations at the Association for Women in Science, says that satisfaction is the key to maintaining efficiency at home and at work.

“Balance implies that both sides have to be in equilibrium, which is really difficult to achieve. It is important to feel satisfied with the amount of time that you give to both your career and your personal life, with the understanding that this will change over time,” Simpson says.

Simpson, who lives in Alexandria, says she loves being a working mom, and frequently shares work scenarios with her children to get their perspectives. Being a working mom makes her feel like a well-rounded individual, and this brings a great deal of satisfaction to her life.

“Some days the focus will need to be on work, while other days the focus will need to be on your family, depending on your circumstances,” Simpson says. “You can tell when you’re not satisfied, and when that happens it’s important to access your priorities to determine how you can achieve satisfaction. And remember, nothing lasts forever!”

WOMEN’S HEALTH

Prescription for Well-Being
What every women needs to know to maintain her health through the ages

One day, the headlines tell women they need take a vitamin supplement, drink eight glasses of water, and get a mammogram every year, among other health prescriptions. The next day, supplements could cause vitamin toxicity, eight glasses of water has become six, and mammograms are only required every other year. So what’s a woman who wants to optimize her health to do? And to whom should she listen?

First, let a little common sense and a dash of precaution prevail when it comes to good health. Maintain a healthy weight. Consume a balanced diet. Get regular exercise. Don’t smoke. Everything in moderation.

It’s often as simple as that, yet it’s easier said than done for most of us who can’t resist the plate of chocolate glazed donuts, down their third diet soda of the day, skip their regularly scheduled gyno appointment, or opt for a nap instead of a jog or walk around the park.

“From 20 and above, if you had to pick one thing that was common amongst every female in every age category, its weight,” says Dr. Barry Rothman, M.D. with Alexandria’s Physicians for Women.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, approximately one-third (33.8 percent) of all adults in the U.S. over age 20 are obese, with obesity defined as having a body mass index equal to or above 30.0. Another one-third (34.2 percent) over the age of 20 are overweight, but not technically obese. Let’s add this up and repeat this heart-racing statistic—a full two-thirds of Americans are either obese or overweight.

Obesity increases the risk of stroke, heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and endometrial, breast cancer and colon cancer, plus a host of other diseases and conditions, including infertility.

The 20s and 30s are the peak child-bearing years, so reproductive health, especially if children are desired, is something young women should guard and protect. That’s even truer for women approaching their late 30s and early 40s, as fertility rates decrease and pregnancy complications increase.

“Patients are deciding late to get pregnant, which is OK. We have in-vitro specialists who are helping these ladies in their 40s,” says Rothman. But even though they can conceivably get pregnant later in life, they are at risk because reproductive organs deteriorate with age. “So a lot of these ladies are overweight, and now they are getting pregnant, which is going to compound the problem,” adds Rothman.

Denise Austin
To see fitness maven Denise Austin in a yoga pose is to see a body balanced, with every chakra along her spine in perfect alignment. She manages to do that in her life, too, despite the swirling activity: She’s closing in on 100 fitness DVDs (“Shape Up and Shed Pounds” is new in stores); she’s national spokesperson for Idaho Potatoes and Skechers; she stays in touch with some 1 million fans via her robust DeniseAustin.com website; and she does a weekly segment on Lifetime’s appropriately named “The Balancing Act.”

Now that the Alexandria resident’s two daughters are older—Kelly is 21 and at college in Southern California; Katie is 18 and in high school—Austin can reflect on how she managed to get to where she is, and give advice to those who need more balance. By Buzz McClain

You’ve been making DVDs since 1988 and been married 27 years. Does your husband, sports agent Jeff, ever complain about being neglected? I have a great husband who is helpful and supportive; that always is important. But I make my family first; that’s probably the biggest thing about balance. I work around their schedule; I’ve already looked at Katie’s entire spring lacrosse season, and I know when I can and can’t go out of town. I’m blessed that I’m able to do that; years ago I couldn’t.

What’s a day like with you? I wake up at 6:30 on most days, have warm water and lemon, eat breakfast, get Katie up and make a big breakfast for her because I’m a true believer in breakfast. I make her lunch, then jump up on the treadmill, do yoga or walk with my girlfriends. I like to walk the Parkway to Mount Vernon, Arlington Cemetery or the C&O tow path. When the kids were younger, I didn’t answer the phone between 3 and 6 when the kids were home, because at 3 I turn into a mom. On Fridays I make dinner for my daughter’s friends; I love to hear everything that’s going on in school.

What’s most important about balancing your life? Finding 30 minutes a day for yourself. We’re awake 16 hours, so 30 minutes is not that much. You deserve it, and you feel better.

Two other major health and nutrition concerns for women involve calcium and vitamin D intake. Some women might think that only older ladies need to pay attention to their daily dose, although young women in their 20s do, too. Bones continue to build until about age 25, says Dr. Preston Sacks of Columbia Fertility Associates.

STD prevention is another health issue young women need to be mindful of, with consideration given to getting the HPV vaccine, which prevents certain types of the human papillomavirus that cause most cervical cancers. The Centers for Disease Control say the vaccine can be given as early as age 9 and up to age 26.

When a woman hits her 20s, she should also schedule regular visits to her gynecologist for a pap smear, and consider having them done every one to two years until age 30. “If you have three consecutive normal pap smears and are beyond age 30, then you can get them every three years,” says Sacks. HPV testing is done whenever there is an abnormal pap smear to help guide the treatment, he adds.

“Once you get HPV, the virus, you always have it. It never goes away,” Rothman reminds his patients. The vaccine doesn’t protect against all HPV types—roughly 30 percent of cervical cancers are not prevented by the vaccine, according to the CDC. “So I tell patients, condoms are the best form of protection against that until you are with the sexual partner you are going to be with for the rest of your life. Don’t depend on the vaccine to prevent anything,” says Rothman.

How often women should get a mammogram has been up for debate by in the medical community for many years. The National Cancer Institute says when women reach 40 years of age, they should get a mammogram every one to two years. The CDC recommendation suggests getting them every two years if you are age 50 to 74 years of age.

Another important test for women in their 50s, typically the time of menopause, is a bone density test, performed to assess for osteoporosis. Getting enough calcium and vitamin D can help improve bone health, as can cardio and weight bearing exercise, says Sacks.

One of the biggest health concerns for women of menopausal age and beyond is cardiac disease, with more women over age 60 dying from it than any other disease. “It’s not breast cancer, it’s not uterine cancer, it’s cardiac disease. Sometimes we don’t treat females as aggressively as we treat males,” Rothman says. Women over 50 who have a family history of cardiac disease or strokes should make a special point of talking with their doctor.

Nobody knows your body—and the health of your body—better than you. To stay healthy as one ages, women should above all listen to their bodies and talk to their doctor if they feel something isn’t quite right. While treatment guidelines exist, the prescription for good health isn’t one size fits all.

Overcoming infertility
Young and “older” women experience difficulty in conceiving.

There was once a time when a woman reached her early 20s, it was expected she would find a mate, settle down and start a family. Today, women, thankfully, have more options than that—and they are taking advantage. More often, women are delaying motherhood, perhaps to focus on their careers or until they find a man they truly wanted to marry. Yet with pregnancy coming later in life, sometimes in the late 30s or early 40s, women need to recognize that the risk of fertility complications increases.

“Women have been given an opportunity to make life choices that are more appropriate for where they are in their life than they were in the past,” says Dr. David Saffan of Shady Grove Fertility. “And if for them, family, at this moment in their life, is second to their career, well, there’s a cost to that.” But there is hope for them.

Infertility isn’t just a natural phenomenon of women who postpone motherhood beyond age 35, however. Women in their early 20s and 30s can also experience difficulty in conceiving. The Centers for Disease Control report from 1970 to 2006, the average age of first-time mothers increased by 3.6 years, up from 21.4 to 25 years, while 12 percent of women of childbearing age will end up seeking out the services of an infertility clinic.

Women in their prime reproductive years—20s and early 30s—don’t necessarily experience different symptoms of infertility than women past 35-years old, which is commonly believed to be the age that fertility rates start falling. Women who have regular cycles, some reasonable frequency of sexual relations, and don’t get pregnant within a year are considered infertile. For women over 35, the barometer drops to half that: six months.

By age 40, over half of couples seeking to have a child will be infertile, says Dr. Preston Sacks of Columbia Fertility Associates. Women are born with all of the eggs they will ever have to conceive. Naturally, fertility declines with age because the “longer you store an egg, the more it deteriorates,” adds Sacks.

In addition to age, other potentially problematic signs include irregular menstrual cycles, excessive menstrual pain or bleeding, bleeding in between the periods, or pain with intercourse, says Sacks. For those patients have had a sexually transmitted disease, experts also advise against waiting a full year to seek treatment.

“If you are 38 or older—and some people would even say 35 or older—and you’re not pregnant within six months, then you should start looking into things because you don’t have enough time if there is a big problem to fix it, or at least attempt to fix it,” says Saffan.

Any patient, no matter their age, who is struggling to conceive will be given a routine evolution, including blood tests, to check hormone levels as well as ovulation tests and ultrasound tests for uterus and ovarian function. Patients may then have a hysterosalpingogram or HSG to check the fallopian tubes and if the uterus is a normal shape, says Saffan. The partner may also be asked to do a semen analysis, since men experience fertility problems, too.

Depending on the condition, treatments may be medical or surgical, ranging from fertility drugs to stimulate ovulation and injectable hormones for intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in-vitro fertilization (IVF). With patients who have irregular ovulation cycles, 80 percent will respond to ovulation-inducing pills like Clomid. “Those that do not will require the injectable medications, and they are highly effective at inducing ovulation. Whether pregnancy occurs is then related to other factors present,” says Sacks.

For women who ovulate regularly, ovarian reserve testing can reveal the quantity and quality of a woman’s remaining eggs and in turn how well they will respond to medications. “The goal is to increase the number of eggs available to offset the decline in egg quality. Obviously the side effect is multiple pregnancy,” says Sacks.

For women in their early 40s, ovarian function decreases significantly, as does the opportunity for them to get pregnant with their own eggs. “Nobody gets the pregnancy rate in their 40s that they had in their 30s or 20s,” says Saffan. One treatment option is using a donor egg and, in the case of male infertility, using a donor’s sperm.

Egg preservation is another route to extending the life of your fertility. “With newer freezing techniques, with six eggs, most women who are 38 will have a pregnancy rate of about 50 percent,” says Saffan.

Kathy Houser of New Market, Md., sought out the help of Shady Grove’s Baltimore office after two years of attempting to conceive. She was 37-years old at the time and had a normal cycle. “For me, it was two years of trying and just complete frustration, and the fact that things just weren’t working,“ says Houser. “My husband has two children from his previous marriage, so I was pretty sure it didn’t have anything to do with him.”

Houser also believed she had genetics on her side; her mom had become pregnant at 42-years old. “I was completely astounded to find out that I was considered old, so I think more and more women are coming to the realization that after 35 it becomes more difficult,“ she says.

After testing, Houser’s doctor started her with IUI coupled with fertility medication. The first cycle wasn’t successful, but the second provided more hopeful results. “I guess I wasn’t responding very well to it, so they upped the dosage right towards the end where they would normally tell you it was time to take the trigger injection and release the eggs,” says Houser. “I had way too many follicles developed so the risk of multiples was really high at that point, so they wanted to cancel the cycle,” which she did.

“With the way I had responded to the medication, they said I would be a great candidate for IVF,” Houser adds, which is ultimately what worked for her—her daughter just turned 2-years old.

Houser’s advice to those women who are having trouble conceiving is to reach out to a fertility specialist sooner rather than later, especially if you are over 35. Secondly, recognize that you are not alone. Approximately 6.1 million or 10 percent of women in the U.S. ages 15 to 44 have trouble conceiving, according to the CDC.

“You enter into it thinking you are the only person. It seems like everyone else you know is getting pregnant really easily, and that’s really not true,” she says.

Time Stops for No Man—or Woman
Women No Longer Want to Suffer Through the Symptoms of Menopause.

Milestones come and go as women age. The first time we get our period. The first time we have sex. The first time we get pregnant. The first time we begin to go through … perimenopause? That’s right—for some women, “the change” is something to actually anticipate. No more “time of the month“! For others, it’s a time of mourning—officially say goodbye to youth—and a time to start managing some unpleasant, flustering symptoms.

Of course, there are many variations in between in how women process the years leading up to menopause, but if Blanche from “The Golden Girls” has taught us anything, it’s that life can be good—maybe better—during and beyond “the transition.”

Perimenopause, the precursor to menopause, is when a woman officially stops having menstrual cycles, and her ovaries stop producing eggs. Perimenopause can begin as early as age 35 but typically hits in the mid 40s. Symptoms can include hot flashes, night sweats, tender breasts, difficulty sleeping, anxiety, low energy and libido, and irregular, painful, heavy or spotty periods.

“Back in the old days, patients may have just dealt with it as, ‘That’s what happens to ladies.’ Today’s modern patient just doesn’t want to put up with that anymore … she wants to do something,” says Dr. Barry Rothman of Physicians for Women in Alexandria.

The birth control pill can be prescribed as a way to alleviate the symptoms of perimenopause, and it‘s safe to take up to about age 54. “There’s no increased risk of breast cancer. There’s no increased risk of cardiac disease, and there’s actually a decreased risk of uterine and ovarian cancers,” says Rothman. “Patients who are smokers over the age of 35 cannot be put on the birth control pill, so it’s dangerous for that category only.”

Clearly, the pill isn’t just for preventing pregnancy. “I have more patients today over the age of 35 who have had tubal ligation or their husbands have had vasectomies—so obviously they are not using it for contraception—on the birth control pill. They are on the low-dose birth control pill because it’s safe and they need menstrual regulation,” adds Rothman.

Uterine or endometrial ablation, which is an outpatient surgical procedure, is also an option for women who experience heavy bleeding. This is where a doctor destroys the lining of the uterus so the lining doesn’t grow back, and the patient no longer has menstrual bleeding. A third and the most severe option for treating heavy bleeding is removal of the uterus, or hysterectomy.

Hormone replacement therapy, or HRT, is a treatment option for women going through perimenopause, but is more common and recommended for women just entering menopause. HRT has become a controversial treatment over the years, especially since the National Institutes of Health released results from its Women’s Health Initiative in 2002. The study indicated that women on HRT were at a higher risk of stroke, heart disease and breast cancer. Many physicians, including Rothman, have come to view the data as flawed, however, because the study largely only tested HRT on women in their 60s, and not women in their 50s when menopause typically occurs. HRT is most beneficial when started within the first two years of menopause, says Rothman, something perimenopausal women should be sure to keep in mind.

Mood swings can also pose a problem for perimenopausal women. “Patients may find that their moods are changing,” says Rothman. “Their children may notice it, their spouses may notice it, co-workers may notice it—that you are a little bit more on edge as you get closer to your period, or your personality really has changed or they’ve noticed a difference in your personality to be more on the depressed or anxious side,” Rothman says. Some of the milder antidepressants like Zoloft and Wellbutrin can be prescribed for mood swings, anxiety or chronic irritability.

Rene Welton of Kingstowne, 51, says her first menopausal symptom was a heavy period, so she went on birth control. Rothman’s wife, Tara McCarthy, 54, says one day, her period stopped, so she went on HRT, and “because of that, I think I’ve missed a lot of the symptoms. The only thing I really have are night sweats, but they are not as bad as some of my friends might have,” she says.

Welton says HRT may be for some women, but it’s not for her. She prefers natural methods of treating symptoms. “My mom never used any estrogen replacement therapy, and she’s 76 and got through it fine, so I’m hoping I can be the same way,” she says. Alternative treatments include black cohosh tea, evening primrose oil, wild-yam root and omega-3 fish oil. Other non-medicinal remedies include getting regular exercise; yoga or meditation can be helpful in dealing with certain physical—and mental—discomforts.

The hot flashes and night sweats that accompany perimenopause are especially disruptive, says Welton. “It’s the chief complaint that perimenopausal and menopausal women have … the hot flashes and the insomnia and the irritability,“ she says. “And some women can handle them … and then some are just not happy at all.”

Women today should know there are remedies available to help them navigate the sometimes rocky road of perimenopause.

“A lot of women of my generation know what their mothers went through—their mothers just suffered through it until it passed. This is a different era. … We’ve got plenty of treatment options. You can go on a very low-dose hormone replacement therapy, you can go on a higher dose, you can find the right dose for you, but to me, it’s just not worth suffering for,” says McCarthy. “You want to try and have a reasonable degree of peace and serenity.”

(January 2012)

By Natalie Kaar and Lynn Norusis

1. Drape Pocket Silk Trousers; 3.1 Phillip Lim; Nordstrom ($375)
2. Emilia Tie-Dye Maxi Dress; Soft Joie; Bloomingdale’s ($128)
3. AE Boyfriend Tuxedo Jacket; American Eagle Outfitters; American Eagle Outfitters ($79.50)
4. Odessa suede ankle bootie; Kelsi Dagger; Treat ($149)
5. mini MAC; Rebecca Minkoff; Urban Chic ($195)
6. Pleated Ponte Skirt; Maeve; Anthropologie ($88)
7. Perfect long-sleeve shirt; Ann Taylor; Ann Taylor ($62)
8. Enamel Bean Black Earrings; Kenneth Jay Lane; Bloomingdale’s ($40)
9. Textured Cutout Cuff; House of Harlow; Cusp ($85)
10. ‘Classic Q – Natasha’ Crossbody Flap Bag; MARC BY MARC JACOBS; Nordstrom ($368)
11. Trelodie Malachite-Print Blouse; Diane von Furstenberg; Cusp ($265)
12. Glimmer long-sleeve tee; J Crew; J Crew ($69.50)
13. The workwear biker boot; Madewell; Madewell ($248)
14. Keynote dress in bird’s-eye tweed; J Crew; J Crew ($198)
15. Holiday henley sweater; Madewell; Madewell ($72)
16. “Mona 2” Pointy Pumps; Via Spiga; Bloomingdale’s ($225)
17. 4-pearl earrings; Nakamol Designs; South Moon Under ($28.50)

(January 2012)

shutterstock/DUSAN ZIDAR

Looking to get back on track after the holidays and have a New Year’s resolution to improve your health? Start with one or two of the resolutions below. You can also add on additional goals once you accomplish the first one or two. It may be easier to make a few changes at a time.

Healthy Food Choices/Serving Sizes

• Monitor your serving sizes; measure how much cereal you put in your bowl, how much pasta or rice is on your plate, how big your protein portion is compared to the other portions on your plate, and how much olive oil you add to each dish you prepare.

• Track the food you consume and monitor your calorie and nutrient intake. The following websites are great tools to help you do this: www.sparkpeople.com and www.myfitnesspal.com.

• Do you know how much of each food group you should eat? Visit www.choosemyplate.gov/food-groups for more information.

• Think it is too expensive to eat healthy? This website has some great tips: www.choosemyplate.gov/healthy-eating-on-budget.html.

Exercise—Just Get Moving

• Not sure where to start? Check out the Every Body Walk! website for tips on how to get started and to download the Every Body Walk! app, which enables you to personalize your walking plan, connect with walking communities and more.

• No way to carve out 30 minutes for exercise? Try two 15-minute or three 10-minute workouts. It is not “all or nothing.” Thirty minutes of exercise is best, but 10 or 15 minutes is better than none.

• Incorporate exercise into some of your daily activities:
–Walk faster to and from the parking lot or Metro.
–Walk in place at the bus stop or train platform while you are waiting.
–Use the stairs instead of the elevator.
–Do arm curls while you are sitting at a traffic light or talking on the phone.
–During commercials, march in place or do jumping jacks.
–Catch up on phone calls when you get home while you walk on the treadmill, do lunges or squats or walk in place.

• Also set time away from the TV, phone and computer to do your exercises.

• Find an exercise you like to do; put on some music and dance around the house, take a class and play with your children or grandchildren as they are great personal trainers (so is your dog!).

• Find a co-worker to walk with at lunch and make it an appointment, not just, “I will meet you if I have time.” You need a break from the work setting.

• Get up and go to the restroom or get some water every 30 minutes, or as often as you can, to stay active throughout the day.

• Did you get a pedometer as a holiday gift? Start using it and challenge yourself to increase your steps by 500 every few days until you reach 10,000 steps.

• Reward yourself with something you really enjoy doing after you finish your exercise; it will make it all worth it.

• Looking for a way to help control your blood pressure, blood glucose, and cholesterol? Exercise will help all three.

Comfort Foods

• For the winter, look for recipes with bright flavor from warm places; Caribbean, Hawaiian, or Polynesian dishes are great options.

• Incorporate beans into your diet. They are a great meat alternative, a source of protein, a good source of fiber and they are inexpensive.

• Focus on recipes with vegetables or add more vegetables to your recipes.

• Soups and casseroles are often better the next day.

• Use pureed vegetables to thicken soups and make them more creamy.

• In a casserole or soup, try cutting the amount of meat in half and double the vegetables.

• Dress up a recipe with a little salsa, balsamic vinegar, garlic or freshly ground pepper.

• Use a crock pot or slow cooker and come home to a ready-to-eat meal.
–Great for soups, casseroles, or a one-pot meal of chicken, potatoes and carrots
–Make soup stock and freeze it to use in your next soup. This is a great way to make tasty, low sodium soup.

Fruits

• Select fruits instead of juice; you will get more fiber from fruits. Even juices with pulp do not contain fiber.

• Keep a bowl of winter fruits—apples, oranges or pears—on the counter or table; you are less likely to look in the refrigerator for a snack.

• Select a different type of apple, orange or pear each week; there are so many choices.

• Toss some sliced apples or pears with a little vinaigrette and sprinkle a teaspoon or two of blue cheese for a great salad with dinner.

• Fresh fruit choices are limited in the winter. Think about cooking dried fruits to have for dessert or to add to oatmeal or yogurt.

Vegetables

• Incorporate vegetables into your breakfast in an omelet, smoothie or on a sandwich. Grape tomatoes are a great way to add crunch to your breakfast.

• Roasting vegetables is a great way to reinvent them and give them a different flavor. Eat them hot or cold with rice or pasta. They make a great addition to a sandwich.

• Bake a sweet potato. Ever put butter, cheese, sour cream or bacon bits on a sweet potato? Probably not! It will save you calories, compared to a white potato, and is delicious, sweet and moist with just a little cinnamon. Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin A.

• Tired of the same old salad? Dress it up by adding a few raisins, dried cranberries, toasted walnuts, sliced almonds, rinsed and drained kidney beans, chick peas, chopped apple, pear, mandarin oranges or pineapple tidbits to your favorite salad greens.

• Chopped onions, carrots and celery are often used in many winter dishes. Try chopping your ingredients ahead of time. For example, chop a large onion, use what you need and put the rest in the refrigerator for another day.

Whole Grains

• Try soba or udon noodles for pasta.

• Alternate pasta or rice with ancient grains like quinoa, amaranth, spelt and Kamut.

• If time is an issue, prepare brown rice or whole wheat pasta on the weekend and then use it throughout the week with roasted or stir-fried vegetables and grilled chicken or fish for a hot or cold dish.

Quick Breakfasts

• Whole grain cereals like Cheerios, Shredded Wheat and Kashi Go Lean, plus a banana and light yogurt

• Whole grain English muffin with low fat cheese

• Cinnamon raisin or whole grain bagel with peanut butter

• Oatmeal made with fat-free or one-percent milk with cinnamon and raisins, dried cranberries or banana. Make a pot of oatmeal on the weekend then reheat when ready to eat and add fruit. Want it fresh? Make in less than three minutes in the microwave or put cook it in your crock pot the night before and wake up to ready-to-eat oatmeal.

Snacks

• Bring snacks to work so that the vending machines and food in the coffee room is not tempting.

• Fruit—apples, oranges, grapes—and dried fruits are easy to carry.

• Vegetables: assorted raw vegetables with salsa or hummus for a dip

• Light yogurt or low-fat string cheese

• Whole grain cereal, snack-size light popcorn, whole grain crackers and graham crackers (Put the appropriate portion in a snack bag rather than eating out of the package.)

Make your New Year’s resolution a family affair! Enlist family members to help with meal planning, grocery shopping, chopping, cooking and, of course, clean-up. This often makes them more willing to try new things and helps everyone. Family members make great exercise buddies and often give you that push to do your exercise. The whole family benefits from healthy eating and regular physical activity.

Make healthy diet changes and exercise your priority for the New Year. Let’s thrive together in 2012!

Biographies

Chris Loudon, RD, CDE, is a Nutritionist with Kaiser Permanente of the Mid-Atlantic States in the Northern Virginia Service Area. In this position, she counsels patients on nutrition related issues in individual appointments and conducts group classes on topics such as chronic disease management and weight management at Kaiser Permanente’s Reston Medical Center.

Chris received her BS degree from Kent State University in Kent, Ohio and completed her dietetic internship at New York Hospital’s Cornell Medical Center. She has worked at Kaiser Permanente since 1990.

Chris is a Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE) and a member of the American Dietetic Association and American Association of Diabetes Educators.

Lo-an Nguyen, MD, is the Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group’s Chief of Adult Primary Care in the Northern Virginia Service Area. In this role, she oversees and mentors fellow primary care physicians in Kaiser Permanente’s Northern Virginia Medical Centers as well as practicing beside them in Kaiser Permanente’s Reston Medical Center.

Dr. Nguyen received her MD from the University of Maryland School of Medicine in Baltimore, Md. Dr. Nguyen completed her residency at the State University of New York at Stony Brook in Stony Brook, New York.

She is board certified in internal medicine and is a fellow of the American College of Physicians and a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society.

Shutterstock/marekuliasz

Like a perfect melody, our mind and body should be in harmony. Everything we do in life first requires thought, and our thoughts turn into actions and into reality. So, if you think, “I’m fat, my butt is too big and I’m not tall enough,” then you will never allow your mind and body to be happy together. Negative thoughts produce negative actions. Have you ever said to yourself, “I haven’t lost a pound this week. I might as well eat that piece of cake since it won’t make any difference anyway.”

It does make a difference. I know; I used to say things like this all the time. My thoughts and, therefore, my life were pretty darn negative. But not anymore, my friends! I have learned to embrace all my imperfections.

Do you catch yourself thinking negative thoughts, too? If so, here are a few ideas to help turn your thoughts around so you can let your mind and body live in harmony.

The next time you find something you don’t like about your body, I want you to immediately find something you love about yourself and say it out loud. You may not like that you have your mother’s thighs, but do you have gorgeous eyes? Maybe you have a really tiny waist. How about great hair or, ever better, a fabulous personality and a terrific sense of humor?

I promise, with a little practice your mind and body will be singing a very happy tune.

Sherry Nicely is a NASM-certified Personal Trainer & Owner of Fitness Together Fairfax. Find her and her local Fitness Together colleagues at www.ftcustomfitness.com and follow them on Facebook to get their health tips and fitness news www.facebook.com/FTCustomFitness.

3 Sisters

ATTIRE

3 Sisters

3 Sisters
213 King St., Alexandria
703-888-2471; www.shop3sisters.com
This hip and urban clothing boutique carries everything those with a fashion-forward mind desire. This is the place to go for casual and dressy jewelry, books, shoes, purses, dresses and more. From Vera Bradley to Not Your Daughter’s Jeans, 3 Sisters has all the designers shopaholics of all ages could ever want. The clothing is as varied as the multiple types of music playing on the iPod that one can hear throughout the store. —LR

Betsey
102 W. Washington St., Middleburg
540-687-5748; www.betseyshop.com
Betsey calls its style “cozy chic,” and the store’s interior perfectly reflects that description. This boutique sits in Middleburg like a warm, sunny attic. The clothes simultaneously resemble vintage treasure and total modernity. Colorful fashions quite literally fill the shop to capacity, just waiting to be grabbed and worn by any shopper fortunate enough to find themselves inside. Betsey is all about affordability, too, and the store sources all its clothes from local designers. —MB

Crystal Boutique
2160 Crystal Plaza Arcade, Arlington
703-415-1400; www.crystalboutique.com
When it comes to finding the perfect fit—petite, tall, plus-sized—we have all bets on one of Arlington’s best full-service women’s shops: Crystal Boutique. Customers find that owner Joel Cohen and his team of expert personal buyers are armed with a large spectrum of sizes, in-house alternations, a luscious array of colors, plus the perfect handbag or shiny bauble to complete any look. Searching for high-end casual or career separates, suits or knits? Search no further. —LD

Betsey

Current Boutique
2529 Wilson Blvd., Arlington; 703-528-3079
1009 King St., Alexandria; 703-549-2272
www.currentboutique.com
If the names Alexander Wang, Cole Haan and Trina Turk top your fashion label crushes, chances are they’re also crushing your wallet. That’s where Current bursts onto the shopping scene, like a fashionable consignment fairy godmother, transforming dangerous designer prices into sparkly, more affordable ones. It’s a place where still-trendy, gently used clothes and accessories have another go-round, along with new duds from New York and Los Angeles that have owner Carmon Lopez’s stamp of approval. Both shoppers and consigners alike will score deals here—with resellers earning 50-percent profit on their items that Current sells. Modern yet classic, designer but affordable—that’s Current. —LD

Gossip on 23rd
566 23rd St. S, Arlington
703-920-1498; www.gossipon23rd.com
Walking into the newly expanded storefront (900 added sq. feet!) on the corner of 23rd Street South is every woman’s shopping dream come true: Large displays of colorful scarves, metal bangles, earrings and handbags fill up every nook and cranny, with a separate room of shoes and racks of tops and dresses organized by hue, plus a great selection of denim, belts and other accessories.

What sets them apart from other boutiques? Affordability. Gossip’s claim to fame is their everything-under-$100 price tags. Owner Katherine Glorioso Dress handpicks the apparel straight out of Los Angeles while picking up vintage items from Hollywood. With new items arriving every week, this is a shopping habit waiting to happen. —LD

Tully Rector
13 E. Washington St., Middleburg
540-687-5858
Tully Rector is your destination for high fashion (Vince, Rag & Bone, etc.). The shop is small and tightly packed, but it’s orderly. Racks of the latest styles form clean aisles from which to easily browse. The store fits right in with Middleburg’s charm. Equestrian-themed decorations dot the walls. Instead of a trip to Tysons Galleria and its attendant traffic and crowds, visit this independent boutique in one of Virginia’s most beautiful towns. —MB

Urban Chic
11889 Grand Commons Ave., Fairfax
703-825-7218; www.urbanchiconline.com
In 2004, Urban Chic opened its first location in Georgetown. And now, owners Chris and Lindsay Buscher have brought their style sense to Fairfax Corner with the newest location that opened in October. The store carries upscale brands such as Diane von Furstenberg, Shoshanna and 12th Street by Cynthia Vincent, for both men and women. —LN

Boutiques show us their picks for this season

Other favorites
Chic Envy
11895 Grand Commons Ave., Fairfax; 703-268-5228; www.chicenvy.com

Dash’s of Old Town
1114 King St., Alexandria; 703-299-4015; www.dashsofoldtown.com

Davelle Clothiers
11904 Market St., Reston; 703-904-0011; www.davelleclothiers.com

Details
206 Mill St., Occoquan; 703-494-4959; www.details-of-occoquan.com

Highcliffe Clothiers
16 S. Madison St., Middleburg; 540-687-5633; www.highcliffeclothiers.com

Hysteria
125 S. Fairfax St., Alexandria; 703-548-1615; www.shophysteria.com

Madisonbelle
5 Loudoun St. SE, Leesburg; 703-443-1790; www.madisonbelle.com

Monkee’s of Freder-icksburg
827 Caroline St., Fredericksburg; 540-368-2111; www.fredmonkees.com

New to You
108 W. Broad St., Falls Church; 703-533-1251

periwinkle
1557 Potomac Greens Drive, Alexandria; 4150 Campbell Ave., Suite 104, Arlington; www.periwinkleshop.com

Pretty People Vintage & Modern
108 N. Patrick St., Alexandria; 703-739-2522; www.prettypeoplevintage.com

Simpatica
810 Caroline St., Fredericksburg; 540-899-0977; www.simpaticaonline.net

Soria’s Closet
7013-B Manchester Blvd., Alexandria; 703-373-3899; www.soriascloset.com

The Factory
10409-A Main St., Fairfax; 703-352-TEES; www.thefactorytees.com

The Full Cup
218 N. Lee St. S, Suite 206, Alexandria; 703-836-9441; www.thefullcup.com

Treat
103 S. Saint Asaph St., Alexandria; 703-535-3294; www.shoptreat.com

Shoefly

BEAUTY & ACCESSORIES

Covet

Bellacara
1000 King St., Alexandria
703-299-9652; www.bellacara.com
Anchoring a corner spot in Old Town, Bellacara has many cosmetics that those in their early 20s and over will love. This is the place to go for Fresh and Kiehl’s among other popular lines. Listen to the sounds of Old Town as customers shop for makeup, bath and body products or hair care products. This is the perfect store to get gift sets for the beauty-obsessed person on anyone’s list. —LR

Covet
5140B Wilson Blvd., Arlington
703-247-9797; www.2covet.blogspot.com
Where in Northern Virginia can you browse for art, furniture, décor and accessories all in one spot? Since opening in 2010, Covet offers shoppers a distinctly original experience in the region. One-of-a-kind handmade items and best-selling brands alike are stocked here, from jewel-encrusted peacock rings, driftwood sculptures and Jonathan Alder mugs to graphic tees and embroidered pillows. Local and national artists’ works of art hang on the walls of the store/gallery, which are also available for purchase. With its champagne and macaroon jewelry trunk shows, and DIY craft nights, Covet is more than just an art and accessories destination. —LD

Rouge

Ooh la Lara
10409 Main St., Fairfax
703-218-1004; www.shopoohlalara.com
Don’t let this small accessories shop tucked away on Main Street in Fairfax City fool you—it is packed with an eclectic mix of baubles, gems and neck, finger and wrist bling you won’t find anywhere else. The French-inspired, European-chic boutique brings in jewelry from Europe, the Middle East, Asia, the streets of SoHo and exclusive pieces the owner, Lara Bissadi Cofer, helps design. Also a fashion stylist, Cofer carries a collection of high-end and vintage pieces. –LN

Rouge
17 S. King St., Leesburg
703-779-3700; www.rougespa.com
Set up as a traditional apothecary, this downtown Leesburg gem features an eclectic mix of beauty items for women and men featuring popular and hard-to-find items from around the globe. While there are skincare products from Dermalogica, Mario Badescu and Nuxe, and makeup from Nouba, the shop—with spa in back—is centered on fancy bath items and candles from brands like Lollia, perfect for gift giving or personal pampering. —NK

ShoeFly
2727 Wilson Blvd., Arlington
703-243-6490; www.shoeflyonline.com
Pumps, rain boots and TOMS, oh my. Whether you’re on the hunt for a neutral pair of flats or going-out heels, ShoeFly offers a wide selection of styles, colors and brands without breaking the bank (think Coconuts, Seychelles and Big Buddha). Bright aqua walls serve as backdrop for fully-stocked shelves of shoes, as well as hats, earrings, tights and handbags displayed throughout the store. —LD

Boutiques show us their picks for this season

Other favorites

Les Gardins de Bagatelle
12 E. Washington St., Middleburg; 540-687-5253

LouLou
Multiple NoVA locations; www.loulouboutiques.com

Meg Carter Designs
Available at Kiskadee in Alexandria, Persnickety Palm in Leesburg; www.megcarterdesigns.com

Queen Bee Designs
Available at Several Area Boutiques; www.queenbeedesigns.com

Shoe Hive
127 S. Fairfax St., Alexandria; 703-548-7105; store.theshoehive.com

Today’s Cargo
1102 King St., Alexandria; 703-836-6866; www.todayscargo.com

The Cottage

HOME GOODS

Urban Retreat

Decorium
116 King St., Alexandria
703-739-4662; www.decoriumhome.com
This vibrant-hued, one-stop shop for everything anyone of any age could want for their home is complete with a fun, funky vibe. Shoppers can find little trinkets for house-warming gifts or even colorful lights for their home. Decorium is the place to go for anyone who wants to spice up a home. And, they even offer interior designers for those who get a little overwhelmed by all of the options. —LR

Pear Tree Cottage
130 Maple Ave. E, Vienna
703-938-1331; www.thepeartreecottage.com
What this tiny Vienna shop lacks in space, it more than makes up for in marvelous merch—a carefully curated mix of antique, vintage and new items for the home and garden. Upon entry, expect your nose to be filled with comforting scents via Votivo and Hillhouse Naturals candles, and your mind to craft a wish list—starting with lighting. Chandelier and lamp options: wow. Other items we’re wishing for: a vintage watering can and funky teak mirror. —NK

The Cottage
105 S. King St., Leesburg
703-443-0058; www.cottageatleesburg.com
If this light-filled, tastefully arranged Victorian shop in historic Leesburg—with free parking!—doesn’t convince you to overhaul your abode, it may be time for an eye check. The 12-room, two-floor store hosts a regularly refreshed assortment of terrific shabby-chic vintage furniture and home accessories from everyday enhancements to seasonal décor and beach house beauties. All at amazing prices. Recently we became especially smitten with the pillows (about $30), lockers, painted dressers, suitcases, lamps and a French birdcage. —NK

Peacock Road

The Old Lucketts Store
42350 Lucketts Road, Leesburg
703-779-0268; www.luckettstore.com
This antiques store, nestled among Route. 15 farms outside of downtown Leesburg, sells $1 snacks like M&Ms and has a Keurig; fuel up, and make an afternoon of it. If perusing Lucketts’ outdoor inventory doesn’t crank up a hunger, scouring its three stories full of hand-picked items inside will. The dizzying array includes loads of antique furniture and other super-cool retro finds. We especially dig the chandeliers, armoires, typewriters, coasters, apparel (cowboy boots to fur) and dress forms. —NK

Urban Retreat
11409-I Sunset Hills Road, Reston
703-689-3404; www.urbanretreatfurniture.com
When furnishing our homes, we dream about having a bestie in the biz, one who is very benevolent when it comes to passing on discounts. But such benefits are reality thanks to Reston’s no-frills, all-fabulous Urban Retreat. Don’t let its inconspicuous location (in a warehouse near the Sunset Hills Road/Whiele Avenue intersection) turn you away. In store is a small, eye-catching assortment of Urban Retreat’s seemingly endless options that you can order, at up to 40 percent off retail. —NK

Peacock Road
125 Mill St., Suite 4, Occoquan
703-490-2244; www.peacockroad.com
This sunlit-filled boutique, anchored on the shore, has brought a touch of English gardens to the historic town of Occoquan. Having just celebrated its one-year anniversary, Peacock Road delivers unique, sophisticated pieces to deck out your abode. Clocks, frames, artwork, vases, tea sets, holiday décor and a Beatriz Ball collection of fine metalware serving pieces are just some of the great finds. One can also find jewelry, scarves, stationery and Nest home fragrances and soaps, displayed throughout the store. —LN

Boutiques show us their picks for this season

Other favorites
East & Beyond
6727 Curran St., McLean; 703-448-8200; www.eandbeyond.com

European Country Living
1006 King St., Alexandria; 703-778-4172; www.europeancountryliving.com

Green Front Furniture
10154 Harry J. Parrish Blvd., Manassas; 703-396-8560; www.greenfront.com

Imagine Artwear
1124 King St., Alexandria; 703-548-1461; imagineartwear.com

Le Village Marche
2800 S. Randolph St., Suite 110 A, Arlington; 703-379-4444; www.levillagemarche.com

Lee Design & Interiors
1020 King St., Alexandria; 703-683-7013; leedesignandinteriors.com

Market Square Shop
202 King St., Alexandria; 703-548-0603

Red Barn Mercantile
113 S Columbus St., Alexandria; 703-838-0355; www.redbarnmercantile.com

The Hour Cocktail Collection
1015 King St., Alexandria; 703-224-4687; www.thehourshop.com

The Keeping Room
8405 Richmond Highway, Suite G, Alexandria; 703-360-6399; www.keepingroom.com

The Nest Egg
11940 Grand Commons Ave., Fairfax; 703-988-0944; shopthenestegg.com

Valerianne
111 Church St. NW, Suite 201, Vienna; 703-242-1790; www.valerianne.com

Willow Street Decor
203 Washington St., Occoquan; 703-497-2070; www.willowstreetdecor.com

The Fun Shop

KIDS

Apple Seed

Apple Seed
115 S. Columbus St., Alexandria
703-535-5446; www.appleseedboutique.com
This is the maternity and baby store for those who are expecting, expecting to expect or have already expected. Apple Seed has calming music for those looking for gifts for themselves or their baby. Transitional clothing like wrap dresses are their specialty. But, more important, this is the place to go for maternity work wear and suiting. Apple Seed is also one of the only stores in the area to have the Bugaboo Cameleon Stroller, an all-in-one dream. —LR

The Magic Wardrobe
108 W. Washington St., Middleburg
540-687-3363; www.themagicwardrobe.com
The Magic Wardrobe is essential for those who want nothing less than the very best for their children. The store offers fine clothing for kids of various ages, including infants, and the location itself is inviting for both parents and children. Sun pours in through wide windows onto broad wooden floors, and many of the clothing shelves are child-sized to make the shopping trip more inclusive. The Magic Wardrobe is truly a boutique for kids. —MB

Dharma & Leopold’s

The Fun Shop
117 W. Washington St., Middleburg
540-687-3861; www.thefunshop.com
Open for 55 years, The Fun Shop actually sells everything from cooking products to home decorations in their massive, three-building store. But their children’s store, located upstairs, was made for kids. Shelves packed full of toys glow with imagination’s endless possibilities, and books extend as high as the eye can see. The Fun Shop lives up to its name. The store also sells children’s clothes, which simply adds to the paradisiacal atmosphere. —MB

Dharma & Leopold’s
7945 Stonewall Shops Square, Gainesville
571-222-7817; www.dharmaandleopolds.com
Stepping into Dharma & Leopold’s in Gainesville is like stepping into C.S. Lewis’ wardrobe. No longer will your little one have to suffer the fate of wearing the same thing as the child next to them, as owners Brenda Radford Mills and Roxanne Klopp stock unique brands for girls, infants to age 12, and boys, infant to 4T. “Anything basic you won’t find here,” explains Mills. The store itself is its own wonderland with a white picket fence garden theme, turnabouts of accessories, bookshelves filled with trinkets and toys, and an entire wall of shoes. But clothes and accessories are not the only thing Dharma & Leopold’s is about. Throughout the year they host trunk shows and craft events, and bring local jewelers, cupcake makers and—something for mom and dad—local wineries. —LN

Sweet Caroline’s Boutique
305 William St., Fredericksburg
540-373-5858; www.sweetcarolinesinc.com
Spending a day out shopping with your little one in tow just got easier at Sweet Caroline’s Boutique. While Mom, Dad or Grandmom shops the racks of attire—from dressy to casual, holiday-themed to occasion wear, and outerwear to accessories—the tikes can play in a room just for them with a play table, toys and different children’s events held throughout the year (story time and face painting). The boutique stocks items from brands such as Le Top, Zuccini, Royal Child and Funtasia, for girls (up to 14) and boys (up to 10), and also carries smocked items, photo books and shoes. —LN

Boutiques show us their picks for this season

Other favorites

Anna-Kate’s Closet
2491-A N. Harrison St., Arlington; 703-533-0482; www.annakatescloset.com

Doodle-hopper 4 Kids
228 W. Broad St., Falls Church; 7521 Huntsman Blvd., Springfield; www.doodlehopper.com

Go Bananas
42395 Ryan Road, Ashburn; 19352 Promenade Drive, Leesburg; www.gobananastoys.com

Little Choux Boutique
www.littlechoux.com

Little Lords & Ladies Consignment
14088 Sullyfield Circle, Chantilly; 703-488-9948; www.littlelordsandladies.com

Monday’s Child
218 N. Lee St., Alexandria; 703-548-3505; www.mondayschildofalexandria.com

Pink & Brown
1212 King St., Alexandria; 703-684-1050; www.pinkandbrownboutique.com

The Mock Turtle
810 Caroline St., Fredericksburg; 540-371-0003

The Tabby CAt
2946-F Chain Bridge Road, Oakton; 703-255-0812; www.tabbycatkids.com

Why Not
200 King St., Alexandria; 703-548-2080

Fetch

PETS

Dogma

The Reign of Cats & Dogs
13 ½ S. King St., Leesburg
703-669-6920; www.thereignofcatsanddogs.com
If every dog has his day, it’s at downtown Leesburg’s The Reign of Cats and Dogs. While dubbed a place for pets and their people, the emphasis here is on dog pampering. There are plenty of playful gifts for pet people like “Real Men Love Chihuahuas” mugs and a room upstairs devoted to cats and their people, but the primary focus here is dog fun—treats, funky leashes, adorable outfits, luxe beds and chew toys like Manolo Barkniks. —NK

Dogma Bakery
2772 S. Arlington Mill Drive, Arlington; 571-422-0370
2445 N. Harrison St., Arlington; 703-237-5070
www.dogmabakery.com
Don’t let the word “bakery” fool you. Arlington’s Dogma Bakery, with its two neighborhood locations, is anything but just a bakery—it’s also a doggie boutique offering any product or amenity your pet could need. Plush squeak toys, patterned collars, seasonal costumes and cushioned beds are among their featured products. On the food front, they offer a large selection of organic, raw food, kibble and dehydrated brands, plus healthy, U.S.-sourced bagged treats, homemade doggie ice cream and baked goodies like paw print Snickerpoodles. Resources abound here—pet sitters, training classes, grooming—you name it, and they offer it or have fliers promoting local businesses that do. ”We’ll special order products, too” says Shirlington Village store manager Kamala Mohammed. —LD

Arthur’s Court Pet Bakery and Boutique
14891 Washington St., Haymarket
703-753-7743; www.arthurscourtpetbakery.com
Human shopping is not the only thing this pet boutique in Haymarket allows for. While canine and feline counterparts get their shop on in the boutique that carries a wall of accessories, kitsch home décor and healthy food brands, the four-legged friends can take advantage of the bakery treats and Tuesday- and Thursday-night yappy hours, from 5-8 p.m., in the adjoining romp yard. But fun and accessories isn’t all this place is about, Arthur’s Court takes in pets for their own vacation while “Mom and Dad” are away. They also offer walking and in-home pet care services. —LN

Fetch! Dog & Cat Bakery-Boutique
305 Mill St., Occoquan
703-491-8686; www.fetch-bakery.com
A healthy pet’s mecca, Fetch! Dog & Cat Bakery-Boutique has a taste any animal will love. From daily meals (California Natural, Innova brands) to yummy snacks (Veggie Life, A Dog’s Life realdogs, Stella and Chewies brands) to scrumptious bakery treats supplied by local pet bakeries, Fetch! will have every pet drooling. But Fetch! isn’t just about food. The boutique also carries pet attire, grooming goods, toys, collars, leashes as well as pet-themed décor and cards in a space that even has relaxing areas indoor and out. And, they host pet events throughout the year and work with local animal welfare groups to call attention to the needs of animals. —LN

Boutiques show us their picks for this season

Other favorites

Barkley Square Gourmet Dog Bakery & Boutique
2006 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria; 703-548-3644; barkleysquarebakery.com

Chateau Animaux
101-A St. Asaph St., Alexandria; 703-518-5188; www.chateau-animaux.com

DogGone Natural
44031 Ashburn Shopping Plaza, Unit 287, Ashburn;
703-858-1112; doggonenatural.com

The Dog Park
705 King St., Alexandria; 703-888-2818

PetMAC
822 N. Kenmore St., Arlington; 703-908-7387; www.petmac.org

Weber’s Pet Supermarket
11021 Lee Highway, Fairfax; 703-385-3766

Wylie Wagg
Multiple NoVA locations; www.wyliewagg.com

Check out the “Our Favorite Boutique” videos here!

(December 2011)

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At the beginning of every new year, do you sit down and make a resolution to get in shape, hit the gym regularly and eat better? Do you go to the gym the first few weeks—maybe even the entire month of January? Then February rolls around, along with the cold weather of Washington D.C., and you find yourself on the couch every night curled up with a blanket eating the dinner you picked up from the fast food drive-through.

I say to you now, and I’ll shout it out loud: NO MORE UNREALISTIC NEW YEARS RESOLUTIONS! If you really want to get healthy simply make three small changes that you can stick to for life, and you’ll actually find yourself in better shape by the time summer rolls around.

Here’s suggested resolution No. 1: Instead of making the bold statement that you’ll hit the gym every night of the week, how about committing to two or three times a week? I would also suggest that you don’t make it Monday nights after the New Year. Ever notice how crowded the gym is the first few Monday nights after New Year’s?

Here’s suggestion No. 2: Another simple change you can make is to drink more water! How much water should you drink in a day? If you are drinking soda all day, then trade half of those for water. It’s a great start to a healthier, long lasting habit.

As for small change No. 3, I really want you to think what you personally could do for yourself to help get you on the path to a healthier AND happier lifestyle. Chances are, you already know what that is!

Happy and HEALTHY New Year everybody!

Sherry Nicely is a NASM-certified Personal Trainer & Owner of Fitness Together Fairfax. Find her and her local Fitness Together colleagues at www.ftcustomfitness.com  and follow them on Facebook to get their health tips and fitness news www.facebook.com/FTCustomFitness

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The holidays are upon us and there are many foods and activities that are special at this time of the year. The key to the best and healthiest holiday season is to be highly aware of your food choices and the amount you eat. To enjoy holiday foods without feeling “deprived,” think about how good the first one or two bites taste. Enjoy those couple of bites, and then pass on the rest.

Healthy Menu Planning for the Holidays
• Keep the appetizers light. Fruit kabobs, vegetables with low fat dip, shrimp or other seafood cocktails are great options.
• Plan the entree around the vegetable choices so that you offer guests a colorful meal.
• Use low calorie options (suggestions below) when possible. This probably will not compromise the taste of the dish, but just to be sure, do a test run before the party.
• Be trendy with miniature desserts such as individual cheesecakes, pecan tarts or serve your fancy dessert in a shot glass.
• Your co-workers may not welcome the temptation of extra calories if you bring in your leftover cookies and candies. Instead, send guests home with leftovers or a doggie bag.

Let’s Party!
Here are some tips to help you be healthy during a holiday party:
• Eat breakfast and spread out your meals over the course of the day, avoiding the desire to “binge.”
• Munch on a small sandwich, bowl of hearty soup, fruit, light yogurt, low-fat cheese stick or vegetables with hummus a few hours before the party so that you are not starving when you arrive, and you can limit your trips to the food table.
• Offer to bring a fruit or vegetable tray with a low-fat dip for everyone to enjoy.
• Arrive fashionably late; you’ll have less time to eat and drink.
• Place your choices on a napkin rather than a plate to control your portions when eating appetizers.
• Try to chew your calories instead of drinking too many calories. There are many high-calorie beverages at holiday parties. (See the list below.) To keep the calories down, alternate high-calorie beverages with diet soda, flavored seltzer water, club soda or ice water with a cherry in it.
• Be the last in line for food, which will give you less time to get seconds.
• Survey the buffet and start by filling half of your plate with vegetables and then add a small portion of your favorite foods.
• Take small bites and chew your food well to enjoy the taste and texture of each bite. This will also slow down your eating.
• Share your favorite dessert with someone else. They will be glad if you offer to share.
• Sit in a location away from the food and desserts, and enjoy the company of others. That way you won’t be tempted to go back for seconds.

Stress Less This Holiday Season
• Consider the source of your stress—shopping, food, travel, etc.—and focus on reducing your stress in that particular area.
• Schedule “me time” each day to read, go for a walk, take a hot bath, see a funny movie or listen to your favorite holiday music.
• It is OK to say “no” and send regrets to some of your holiday invitations.
• Get adequate sleep by avoiding caffeine, large meals, alcohol and nicotine before bed. Remove distractions (TV, computer) from your bedroom.
• Save time and share the holiday tasks of cleaning, holiday decorating, shopping, gift wrapping, and meal planning and preparation with your family. Focus on having fun and making new memories.
• Sweat out the stress by trying to maintain your exercise routine over the holidays, which will probably give you more energy.
• Stay organized by making a list and checking off tasks as they are completed.

Healthy Holiday Gift Ideas
• Homemade gifts have a special meaning and sentimental value and can also be economical. Gifts could be fresh from your oven like pumpkin, cranberry or zucchini bread.
• Soup mixes in a decorative jar
• Cookbook with healthy recipes
• For the cook, consider a bread machine, rice cooker, air popper for popcorn, yogurt machine, crockpot, food processor, toaster oven, pressure cooker or a mandolin for quick slicing and chopping.
• Gift certificate for a fun class like line dancing, zumba, yoga or boot camp
• Gym membership
• Spa day

Help Your Children Have a Healthy Holiday
• Keep kids’ portions “kid” size.
• Make ingredient substitutions when possible or reduce some of the high-fat foods.
• Children are usually proud of anything they make, so let them help plan the menu and prepare the food.
• Remember that healthy eating and physical activity is for all children—not only those facing weight issues.
• Maintain the children’s eating schedule and avoid skipping meals.

Holiday memories are about more than food. Keep your children active by having them help carry the groceries, set the table, play with younger children or take out the trash. Let’s make one or two changes so that this will be a happy and healthy holiday for everyone.

Biographies

Chris Loudon, RD, CDE, is a Nutritionist with Kaiser Permanente of the Mid-Atlantic States in the Northern Virginia Service Area. In this position, she counsels patients on nutrition related issues in individual appointments and conducts group classes on topics such as chronic disease management and weight management at Kaiser Permanente’s Reston Medical Center. Chris received her BS degree from Kent State University in Kent, Ohio and completed her dietetic internship at New York Hospital’s Cornell Medical Center. She has worked at Kaiser Permanente since 1990. Chris is a Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE) and a member of the American Dietetic Association and American Association of Diabetes Educators.

Lo-an Nguyen, MD, is the Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group’s Chief of Adult Primary Care in the Northern Virginia Service Area. In this role, she oversees and mentors fellow primary care physicians in Kaiser Permanente’s Northern Virginia Medical Centers as well as practicing beside them in Kaiser Permanente’s Reston Medical Center. Dr. Nguyen received her MD from the University of Maryland School of Medicine in Baltimore, Md. Dr. Nguyen completed her residency at the State University of New York at Stony Brook in Stony Brook, New York.She is board certified in internal medicine and is a fellow of the American College of Physicians and a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society.

Stephanie Pysher, RD, LD, is a Nutritionist with Kaiser Permanente of the Mid-Atlantic States in the Northern Virginia Service Area. In this position, she counsels patients on nutrition related issues in individual appointments, works with Oncology patients, and teaches group classes on topics including diabetes, hypertension, and weight management, in Kaiser Permanente’s Fair Oaks and Manassas Medical Centers. Stephanie received her MS degree from the University of Pittsburgh and completed her dietetic internship at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center St. Margaret’s Hospital. She has worked at Kaiser Permanente since 2010.Stephanie is an American College of Sports Medicine certified Health Fitness Specialist and a member of the American Dietetic Association.

Dentistry in the Family: The Kelliher Family

Dr. Kelliher

The Kelliher family has been in dentistry in the Northern Virginia area since 1962, when the father of the current crop of dentists and dental hygienists came to town. Jeremiah Kelliher set up shop on Brandon Avenue in Springfield, where the Kellihers still have a practice. Dr. Jerry Kelliher and Dr. Sean Kelliher, or Dr. Sean and Dr. Jerry as they are known to their patients (it’s easy to see how last names could get confusing), hold the fort down in Springfield while their brother, Dr. Dan, works out of the Metropolitan Dental Centre off of Braddock Road in Fairfax.

Dr. Jeremiah was the man who started the family tradition in dentistry, but it’s likely to live on for a while as six of his seven children are in the profession. Three are dentists, all his daughters are dental hygienists, and there’s the one son that Dr. Jerry lovingly calls the “oddball” of the family, who has done well in the insurance business in North Carolina.

The Kellihers have a great reputation throughout NoVA, and they are committed to furthering their education long after they have left school. Dr. Dan even lists “continuing education” accomplishments on his website.

See the Top Dentists 2011 List Here.

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(November 2011)