Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/40669
from our staff what I've learned this month... by Michelle Page-Alswager The In-Between We're lucky here at BRAVA. Not only do we have an abundance of chocolate in the offi ce (it isn't pretty when we run out), but we get to start each month with a blank slate. Sometimes, even in the midst of a busy deadline, we can't wait to start the next month to bring new ideas to life. At other times, climbing that mountain again feels daunting. Starting over can be scary. Endings can be sad. Life is about making it work in the middle. Best-selling author Jacquelyn Mitchard knows this well. Her story has been told before (even by us, years ago): From the death of her fi rst husband to being chosen for Oprah's Book Club, building a career, a family and a home. But today, she's in a place she never expected. At 56—after au- thoring 18 books brought her the fi nancial security she thought would last a lifetime— it's all gone. Victim of a Ponzi scheme that took her life savings, Mitchard is starting over. As she puts the fi nishing touches on a new book (due out next month), she shares not only what it's been like to rebuild her fi nancial security, but how she's found happiness not in life's highs, and certainly not in life's lows, but somewhere in the middle (p. 40). Th en sit back and count your own bless- ings in life. If it's a pet that brings a smile to your face, we've got tips and local places to pamper him or her in our Pet Guide (p. 56). If it's gathering with friends that feels right, check out our selection of salsa reci- pes from local chefs (p. 47)—they're perfect for sharing on a hot August night. When the summer heat gets to be too much, fi nd a bit of shady style inspiration on p. 50—then go fi nd a cool stream to dip your toes in, just like our model, Katie, did. As you explore this issue and take note of some design tweaks we hope you'll love, we'll get a fresh start on next month's. In fact, maybe starting over isn't so bad after all—especially when there's chocolate. After reading about the fun farms in our area, I realize it's time for me to take my kids to a real farm—a tour of Hinchley's is in order! "Down on the Farm, Family Style," p. 24 Happenings is my favorite part of the magazine. I like to see what's going on around town, and love when we have the opportunity to feature something new, like the Rhythm & Booms run/walk! "Happenings," p. 72 Pairs of shoes ultramarathoner Darren Fortney went through on a 135-mile run through Death Valley. I love fi nding people I know in our pages, and seeing Darren featured is extra special to me after he dedicated mile 23 of his race in 3 honor of my son, Jesse. "Live in a Man's World," p. 26 What? There's a huge rock festival on Aug. 6 featuring local bands and fun for families? Thanks to all the support- ers, including BRAVA, of Jessepalooza. p. 27 I always look at the price of the items we feature and love when I fi nd a great deal at a local store, like the $12 bangles from Neena! "Sun Kissed," p. 52 Th ankYou! Sarah DeRoo Managing Editor 8 Michelle Reddington Publisher BRAVA Magazine August 2011 This issue marks our second anniversary since the Aug. 2009 relaunch of BRAVA. To our amazing readers and loyal advertisers: Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts. Your support means everything. Here's to another great year! 12 DOLLARS