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Annual show includes everything under one roof By Colin Anderson Blessed with dozens of courses in the region or within a short drive, Inland Northwest golfers have plenty of variety in which to challenge their skills or experience something new. You can find information on a slew of these courses and get yourself a free round of golf and other discounts by attending the annual Spokane Golf & Travel Show February 22 and 23 at the Spokane Convention Center. Your $12 admission includes a free round of golf at The Fairways in Cheney. Buy your tickets in advance online and you get to select an additional bonus of either free greens fees or discounted fees at 11 additional courses including Circling Raven, Wandermere and Twin Lakes Village. Once inside the show, you’ll find just about everything you need to get you fired up for the upcoming golf season and, as a bonus, find many unique places to visit and vacation this summer. With more than 100 exhibitors, you’ll find everything from the latest technology in clubs and balls to muscle and fatigue recovery, regional tourism representatives and many local businesses. This is the time to get the most bang for your buck at some of the top courses in the region. Most booths offer show-only specials that can include buy one get one free round, reduced greens fees, discounted range passes and other specials. You can enter to win overnight stay and play packages, and retailers will also be offering steep discounts on clubs, bags and balls. For those who want to showcase their skills against the best in the region, there are tough shot, long drive and putting competitions. If you are looking to upgrade your old equipment, there is a golf club swap on site, and Wide World of Golf has a try and buy setup where you can test out the season’s newest technology. Kids and adults can receive professional instruction, and children 12 and younger will each receive a free club. You can find additional information and buy advanced tickets (which include the bonus round/discount) at SpokaneGolfShow.com.

Shriners patients praise experience at Spokane hospital By Dan Thompson Photo courtesy of Shriners Hospitals for Children Shae has been a regular at the Spokane Shriners Hospital since she was a baby. It started with a one-week stint when she was 1 year old to address the scoliosis that was apparent in her spine. From then on, it was check-up appointments every six to 12 months—up until this visit, which could be as long as three months and a week. “I planned it to the day,” said Shae, now 14 years old. “It depends how fast my body stretches.” The top and bottom of her spine are straight, but there is a significant curve in the middle. Shae started her most recent stint at Shriners in early January as a 4-foot-9 (and a half) teenager. But thanks to the halo that’s been slowly stretching her back, she is now closer to 4-foot-11. The doctors’ goal for her is to “grow” 3 to 6 inches, the process of her spine straightening out to the point that the impending surgery will be most effective. But for now, she is waiting it out, a metal halo screwed to her head, moving around, on this snowy January day, in a wheelchair. Yet through it all, Shae’s spirits have remained high. She, and her parents Debi and Steve, see that the end is about as near as the spring thaw. “I feel like sometimes people let things get to them, to their head, and it doesn’t [for me],” Shae said. “My life could be so much worse.” And her time at Shiners, she said, has been really great. “So fun. It’s like a fancy hotel,” she said in a room off from the main recreation room, which is replete with tables for football, billiards and puzzles, among other diversions. “All the nurses are so nice, everyone’s sweet. The first week, you know everyone, and everyone knows you. “It’s like a home and family away from your actual family.” Shriners started in Spokane as a mobile unit in 1924 and has grown into a state-of-the-art hospital that treats thousands of children from babies to 18-year-olds each year. With the nearest site to the west in Portland, and the nearest to the east in Minnesota, Shriners Hospital for Children in Spokane has a large region of coverage, spanning four states as well as parts of Canada. Its doctors treat conditions of various sorts, from same-day fractures and sports injuries to longer-term treatments such as Shae’s. Shae’s stay is made easier because she completes school online—something she has done since fifth grade—and is able to complete work at her own pace from the hospital. Her parents and older siblings visit frequently and are able to stay in the same room as her if they wish to. It’s that flexibility and personal care that Debi has enjoyed so much, and the ability to be at the hospital for such a long stay is, Debi said, in Shae’s best interest. Wearing the halo to stretch out Shae’s spine will make the surgery to insert metal rods into her back more effective, and they don’t need to rush it; they just need to wait until Shae’s spine has straightened out as much as it is going to. “[The doctor said] it’ll take a commitment, but it really reduces a lot of risk,” Debi said. “We’ve known this was coming … this is just the best place to be.” Shae and Debi were mostly alone on this Friday afternoon, as the hospital tries to line up most of its surgeries early in the week so that patients can recover at home, said Kristin Monasmith, director of marketing and communications for Shriners Spokane. The hospital’s relatively smaller size allows its doctors to provide a higher level of care, Monasmith said, and that the “family centered wrap-around” is a hallmark of their system. Staff want their patients to be as independent as possible and to keep active when they can. Shae’s condition worsened—or rather, became more painful—over the last year or two. Sitting for long periods of time became painful. Even making it through a movie was difficult, she said. They told their doctor at Shriners, who advised them that this long-term visit would be wise. Shae, Debi and Steve live in Medical Lake, Washington, and they have grown accustomed to the drive. “It takes 18 minutes, door-to-door,” Shae said. “I’ve timed it.” The surgery, though, should be the final step for her. While the metal rods, once in place, will limit her some, the idea is that she won’t have to be in for a long stay at Shriners again. Brenda and 12-year-old daughter Carsyn came to Shriners last summer under much different circumstances. Carsyn, a soccer and basketball player, suffered a foot injury a year ago, in January 2019, and it just wasn’t healing right. Carsyn was playing basketball and, as Brenda described it, “the whole front of her foot rolled over.” Her coach told Brenda that it didn’t look good. When they consulted various doctors, they “got all these different answers,” Brenda said. Some thought Carsyn had hurt her tendon. Maybe it was a strain, or perhaps her growth plate had been damaged. She was in a cast six days a week and would take it off to play, managing the pain, Brenda said. “She was six days in the boot and one day out of the boot, just because [we thought] it was a strain,” Brenda said. But her foot kept swelling up, and Carsyn told her mom, “I promise, there’s something really wrong with my foot.” By that point, Brenda was feeling pretty down about the whole situation and wondered if they would ever really find an answer or if her daughter’s foot would ever fully heal. “You feel a little bit hopeless,” said Brenda, who herself is an athlete and also suffers from multiple sclerosis. “This problem is just going to continue to happen.” It wasn’t until that summer Carsyn’s parents took her to Shriners, largely because Brenda said they didn’t realize the hospital handled sports injuries such as Carsyn’s. From their entrance into the lobby, though, Brenda said she and Carsyn felt comfortable. And when she met with the doctors, she felt like they were finally getting the right answers. Shriners sees children not just as small adults, Monasmith said, but as very different people because they are still growing. They are also more than a long-term care facility, and they take care of fractures and other surprise injuries that come up, especially for young athletes. Brenda said the way Carsyn’s doctor interacted stood out in their experiences and that the doctor was good at explaining the injury in a way her daughter could understand without scaring her. The doctors took an X-ray and noticed that Carsyn’s foot had been broken for a while, specifically that a part of it had broken away from the rest of the bone. “They knew right away what the problem was,” Brenda said. “They did the least invasive process to see if the bone would reattach itself.” The tendon, Brenda said, had wrapped itself around the broken piece of bone, which is what was causing the pain and swelling. A few weeks later, after seeing how the foot reacted, the doctors ultimately suggested surgery. Carsyn came in for the surgery on October 31 dressed as a jester. The other kids there, Brenda said, were dressed up, too. “[The doctors] came in and talked to her about what was gonna happen. They didn’t just slap something on and scare her,” Brenda said. “Because of that experience, she won’t be afraid to go into surgery. … Something cutting skin isn’t very pleasing. It doesn’t sound like a bubble bath.” The surgery went well. So well, in fact, that Brenda remembers the doctor storming into the waiting room with a smile on his face, expressing joy as if he were operating on his own child. The doctor told them in detail how the surgery had gone and reported that Carsyn’s recovery would be shorter than expected: just four weeks in a boot. On December 3, Brenda said, Carsyn was back on the basketball court. “They’re just so excellent. They go way over the top to make sure you’re comfortable and welcome, and that we’re part of it,” Brenda said. “They know kids, and they listen.” That is something Shriners takes particular pride in doing, Monasmith said, and the hospital wants care to be coordinated and seamless while giving families confidence and comfort about the situation. Shriners treats all sorts of conditions, from sports injuries like Carsyn’s to spinal deformities like Shae’s. Shriners also provides services regardless of a patient’s family’s ability to pay. If a child is covered by private insurance or a state-funded plan, the hospital will bill accordingly, but such insurance or plans are not required to receive care. Financial donors help fill that gap. In addition to medical services and care, Shriners has a multi-million dollar research program, with specific focuses on orthopedics, burn care, cleft lip and palate, and spinal cord injuries, according to its website, investing $38 million last year. In 2018, at its 22 locations nationwide, it treated nearly 150,000 children. Shae knew that her visit to Shriners was only a matter of time. But as the pain grew, her family and her doctors found that this timing was right. “We’ve known this was coming,” Shae’s mom, Debi, said. During her first weekend at Shriners, her family came and spent Sunday with her. Shae has three older siblings and they visit as often as they can, she said. But her cat Bailey and her two guinea pigs, Archie and Elliot, couldn’t visit, so her dad is in charge of taking care of them. Debi said she made sure he knew which guinea pig was which. The halo around her head makes sleeping difficult, but with a neck pillow she can generally find a way to get comfortable. “The halo, it feels like when you hit your head and you have a really bad headache, and it won’t go away,” Shae said, “and then you get used to it.” On this day, Shae was able to go without taking any medicine to manage the pain of having the halo attached to her head, Debi said. Shae said she is hoping that after surgery—and about a year of recovery—she will be able to do some swimming and diving again. Maybe too some gymnastics, the sport she loved when she was younger. “Right now I feel ehhh,” Shae said, shaking her head, “because I don’t like being in [the halo], because I can feel it stretching my back out, but also good at the same time because it’s stretching out my back and then it relieves all the pressure.” Pressure and pain, she is confident, will all be gone in just a little bit longer, when the halo is gone, the rods are in her back, and her body is finally recovered, with as straight a spine as she has ever had.

What to Expect When You’re Remodeling: Part II By Nikki Luttmann, Interior Designer It seems like everyone is building, remodeling or sprucing up their homes this year. This is evident in both the lack of available contractors and subcontractors, but also in the rising prices of labor and goods sparked from high demand. That’s why it is very important to have a clear set of expectations and needs lined out before you start your project, as remodeling can be a slippery slope. I’d hate to see anyone get into the middle of a major remodel, only to find themselves stuck and unable to complete the job because they cannot find subcontractors who have the availability time-wise to finish it! Last month I started a list of common home remodeling projects including whole house painting, kitchen remodeling, new flooring and bathroom tile projects. This month I thought I’d continue the list of common projects and what to expect with each. The aim is to help readers determine what to expect for each. New countertops. Though this would likely be included in kitchen remodeling, this is by far one of the most common projects people undertake as it has such a huge perceived impact on the value of our homes. For any of the myriad options out there, the process starts with selecting a material and color, finding a supplier that deals with your specific material and offers a variety of options, and discussing with a salesperson the merits of each. From there, a measure will be performed and then a template created. For the templating process, they will be looking at your existing cabinet structure and determining the best fit, location for seams, etc. Additionally, decisions will have to be made regarding sinks, faucets, backsplash material and height, and more. Oftentimes, the fabricator can provide the sink from a selection of options, which usually proves easiest for the homeowner, unless they want a more specialty sink. As well, it must be determined if the fabricator will be removing the old countertops—some will (for a fee), some will not. If the answer is no, ask if they have a suggestion for someone who can do that work for you, unless you’d like to do it yourself. After the template, material will be cut off-site by the fabricator then brought to your home on installation day. Sometimes, there are issues—a measurement was missed, the sink doesn’t fit, etc. Be prepared for this—they will fix it, and usually very quickly. That’s part of the reason I suggest that the fabricator provide the sink. If they provided it, then it is their mistake, and they will resolve the issue at no additional charge to you. New windows and/or doors. This is a fairly large remodeling project, and I definitely recommend working with a specialist to accomplish these for you. Windows, as long as they are being replaced in the exact same sizes as existing, are typically a fairly easy switch. However, with any remodeling project, keep in mind that there are often unforeseen difficulties. Headers may be incorrect, or windows may have been installed wrong the first time around. Trim, both interior and exterior, may be damaged or removed in the process, paint and drywall damaged. Window coverings will, of course, have to be removed and may not quite fit correctly when new windows are installed, depending on the type of window and treatment you are replacing. Though replacing old windows is one of the most rewarding projects you can undertake for the insulation integrity of your home, it can be quite a process. Be prepared! Doors—both interior and exterior—are similar in scope and potential issues. Ask questions, and make sure you are working with a professional! Lighting. This is one of the easiest switches for your home. Changing out light fixtures is usually quick, painless and very rewarding! There are so many options available now that shopping for lighting can be almost overwhelming, but in this case, the internet is your friend. You can search fixtures by finish, style, glass or any other option you can think of, and ordering them online is fairly easy. The one caveat that I will insist on is using a professional electrician for installing them—one who knows the codes and will not jeopardize your safety by installing something incorrectly. Well, that’s my list! Happy remodeling and remember, if in doubt, ask a professional for help or advice.

35TH ANNUAL HOSPICE WINE TASTE February 1 Coeur d'Alene The annual Hospice Wine Taste is an incredible black-tie evening filled with full glasses and giving hearts, and this year’s tasting event and auction marks Hospice of North Idaho's 35th year hosting this evening of tasting while raising the crucial funds needed in order to continue its mission of providing exceptional hospice care to those in the North Idaho community. Read more... COEUR D'ALENE BOAT EXPO February 5 - 9 Coeur d'Alene Come experience the Coeur d’Alene Boat Expo and everything that it has to offer! This event provides the opportunity for attendees to see 200 boats in more than 40,000 square footage of heated showroom floor space. Whether you are new to boating or are looking to upgrade, this is the place to be February 5 through 9. Read more... HIGHLIGHTED EVENTS JANUARY 31 WINTER WHITE-OUT PARTY Join Pend d'Oreille Winery in Sandpoint for their first ever Winter "White-Out" Party! Dress all in white, or winter-themed attire, and costumes are encouraged! There will be prizes for top costumes, drink specials all night and live music with Nick Wiebe. Don't miss out on the fun! Celebrate winter at the winery tonight from 5 to 8pm. Read more... JANUARY 31 EVANS BROTHERS GRAND OPENING Celebrate Evans Brothers' new Spokane location! The fun starts at 6:30pm and features a Latte Art Throwdown; coffee tasting; SOL Tribe Breaking Crew Performance; dance party with DJ Unifest and DJ Moon Tribe; food by Mangia Catering; cash bar with coffee cocktails, beer and wine; High Tide Lobster Bar special menu and more! Read more... FEBRUARY 5 FIRST WEDNESDAY WINE TASTING Wednesday, February 5, don't miss "First Wednesday" at MAX at Mirabeau in Spokane Valley. From 5 to 7pm, join MAX for wine specials and complimentary hors d'oeuvres, as they feature Weather Station Winery for your tasting pleasure and pieces by local artist Michelle Darnell for your viewing pleasure. Read more... FEBRUARY 6 CDAIDE'S 3RD ANNUAL CARE AFFAIR The 2020 CDAIDE Care Affair takes place Thursday, February 6, at the Coeur d'Alene Resort in Downtown Coeur d'Alene. The event will once again feature four celebrity chefs offering delicious complimentary appetizers. The evening also includes a silent auction of hospitality-themed items, buffet dinner, and live auction and paddle raise. Read more... For more happenings this week ... CLICK HERE Read SIZZLE Winter Edition CLICK HERE #newsletter

"FAMILY PICTURES" CONCERT January 24 & 25 Sandpoint Coeur d'Alene Symphony presents its annual family concert, where you will enjoy an exciting performance of Prokofiev's Peter and the Wolf, with live narration by Steven Shortridge, and be treated to a performance of "Pictures from an Exhibition” by Mussorgsky with original photographs of Coeur d’Alene and Kootenai County by Don Sausser. Read more... FLY FISHING FILM TOUR 2020 January 28 Spokane The 14th annual Fly Fishing Film Tour is headed to Spokane with a fresh catch of new films. Featuring exclusive shorts telling the stories of everything from fishing guide fairytales to serial steelhead semantics, canyon conservation in Colorado, mountain biking for marlin, jumping jaguars and jungle fish in whitewater rapids and the audacious Aussies who explore the largest coastline in the world. Read more... HIGHLIGHTED EVENTS JANUARY 24 - 26 INLAND NORTHWEST RV SHOW & SALE The Inland Northwest RV Show and Sale kicked off yesterday and continues through the weekend at the Spokane Fair and Expo Center. The largest RV show in the Northwest and featuring over 200,000 square feet of RVs and accessories, you'll find hundreds of RVs, brands, styles and accessories to choose from. Read more... JANUARY 24 - 26 BANFF MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL CDA The Banff Mountain Film Festival returns to Coeur d'Alene. Approximately 26 different films will be shown over three evenings at Schuler Performing Arts Center in Boswell Hall on the North Idaho College campus. Be inspired by the international film competition, showcasing footage of spectacular mountain subjects from all over the world. Read more... JANUARY 25 HILLS FOR HOPE 5K January 25 marks the first annual Hills for Hope 5k. Held at McEuen Park in Coeur d'Alene, Hills for Hope is an event aimed at raising awareness for cervical cancer. Race signups will be held the day of the race only, with registration starting at 8am, followed by the race at 9am. All entry fees will go to Hospice House of North Idaho - Sullivan House. Read more... JANUARY 25 SPIRIT LAKE WINTERFEST 2020 Hosted by Spirit Lake Parks and Recreation, the 2020 Winterfest promises to be a day of fun for the entire family! Held 10am to 6pm Saturday, January 25, on Main Street and the Big Park, the day's events feature a snowman competition, team sled races, sledding hill, snowball fight, live band, team snowshoe race, and a chili/pie cook-off. Read more... For more happenings this week ... CLICK HERE Read SIZZLE Winter Edition CLICK HERE #newsletter

Go Sandpoint making dream vacations a reality By Patty Hutchens Since being named the Most Beautiful Small Town in America by USA Today over a decade ago, Sandpoint has been discovered by countless people throughout the country as they come to witness the beauty of the mountains and lake firsthand. While there are many lodging options when it comes to visiting North Idaho, the trend has changed dramatically with more people than ever now seeking a home vacation rental. That’s where Go Sandpoint (GoSandpoint.com) Vacation Rentals can assist not only visitors seeking to rent a home but also homeowners who wish to rent out their homes. “We are seeing more and more visitors from not just the Pacific Northwest but from across the country, many of which are families,” said Go Sandpoint owner Steve Russo. “People are realizing that it makes much more sense to rent a home where they can spread out, prepare their meals and relax.” Go Sandpoint is a full-service vacation rental company that has been in business for 10 years, helping visitors make their vacation to Sandpoint one that they will always treasure. They help their clients navigate the world of vacation rentals, ensuring a simple and straightforward process and making sure all the clients’ needs are met. With homes available for rent from the shores of Lake Pend Oreille to Schweitzer Mountain Resort and beyond, Go Sandpoint has something for everyone. They are the preferred booking agent for the exclusive development and golf course at The Idaho Club, where beautiful homes are nestled along the fairways of the Jack Nicklaus designed course. Here, with choices of three-, four-, five- and six-bedroom homes, guests can enjoy living life to the fullest, whether they are golfing, hiking, recreating on the water during the warmer months, or just need a beautiful setting to unplug and relax. Their rentals at Schweitzer Mountain Resort offer year-round breathtaking views with an array of things to do from skiing, boarding and tubing in the winter to hiking, mountain biking and more in the summer. “We also offer homes on Gold Mountain and on the shores of the Pend Oreille River just past Dover,” said Russo. It’s true that if you live in Sandpoint, you are guaranteed to have many visitors no matter what time of year it may be. Instead of displacing the kids from their rooms to the couch to make room for guests, renting a vacation home is the perfect answer. “Whether it is people coming for weddings, family reunions or just looking to get away, our homes have been the perfect solution when it comes to lodging,” said Russo. With an in-house maintenance staff on call 24 hours a day as well as a housekeeping service, it is nice to know that all your needs are being met. To view the beautiful homes or learn more about Sandpoint, visit GoSandpoint.com. Experience all that Sandpoint has to offer and make your trip even more memorable by staying at one of Go Sandpoint’s beautiful homes. Go Sandpoint Vacation Rentals 208.610.4416 Jackson@GoSandpoint.com GoSandpoint.com

BANFF MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL January 17 - 19 Sandpoint For the 23rd year, the one and only Banff Mountain Film Festival will be coming back to Sandpoint’s Panida Theater! For three consecutive nights, be inspired by the international film competition, showcasing footage of specular mountain subjects from all over the world. Read more... INLAND NORTHWEST RV SHOW & SALE January 23 - 26 Spokane Held indoors at the Spokane Fair and Expo Center, this four-day event is the largest RV show in the Northwest with over 200,000 square feet of RVs and accessories. Find five gigantic dealers, hundreds of RVs, brands, styles and accessories to choose from, along with new products and new innovations! Read more... HIGHLIGHTED EVENTS JANUARY 18 PILGRIM'S 20TH ANNIVERSARY SALE To celebrate their 20th anniversary, the community is invited to stop in between 9am and 9pm Saturday, January 18, to help them celebrate 20 outstanding years of serving the Coeur d'Alene community healthy and natural foods, drinks and products. Nearly everything in the store will be 20 percent off! Read more... JANUARY 18 MAC & CHEESE FESTIVAL Celebrate this favorite dish at this year’s Mac & Cheese Festival. This annual food and drink celebration takes place noon to 5pm Saturday at the Coeur d’Alene Resort. While adults and children alike enjoy a comfort-food-filled day, participating chefs will be competing for the Golden Noodle Award! Read more... JANUARY 18 POST FALLS BRIDAL TOUR Brides, and grooms, you won't want to miss the 2020 Post Falls Bridal Tour. Held 10am to 4pm, Trailhead Event Center, Jacklin Arts and Cultural Center and Red Lion Templin's Hotel will all be participating, each offering a unique location for your wedding or reception, as well as vendors for bridal attire, cakes, catering, flowers and more. Read more... JANUARY 23 ANNUAL FRENCH WINE DINNER Make your reservations to attend Fleur de Sel's annual French Wine Dinner in Post Falls, featuring five wines from the portfolio of North Berkley Imports each paired with a course designed and prepared by Fleur de Sel chef and co-owner Laurent Zirotti. Cost for the dinner is $99 per person, inclusive. Space is limited, and reservations are filling up quickly. Read more... For more happenings this week ... CLICK HERE Read SIZZLE Winter Edition 2019 CLICK HERE #newsletter

Make a trip to West Yellowstone this season By Marguerite Cleveland When the winter snows blanket the town of West Yellowstone and Yellowstone National Park, the summer crowds dissipate, making this the ideal time of year to visit. West Yellowstone makes the perfect base for exploring all the area has to offer in the winter months and is the closest park entrance to the Old Faithful Geyser. Surrounded by three National Forests, plenty of trout streams and lakes, it makes getting back to nature easy. There is a surprising number of things to do from snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing to winter fly fishing. The town of West Yellowstone is right outside the West Entrance to the park and, although it is closed to cars in the winter, it is open for licensed tour operators for snowmobile and snowcoach tours. Where to Stay The Yellowstone Lodge has a great location for your base during your time in the area. It is only one block away from popular attractions, restaurants and shopping, and just three blocks away from the West Entrance to Yellowstone National Park. The hotel is one of the newer properties in West Yellowstone. It has decent sized modern rooms, and there is even a family suite option if you need more space. Amenities on the property include an indoor heated pool and hot tub. The included continental breakfast is substantial with a nice variety. The staff is very friendly and helpful. Where to Eat Most restaurants in the area are heavy on the Western theme. Think hearty steaks, burgers and comfort food. While in town make sure to try an elk or bison dish. Madison Crossing Lounge is in an old school. The first West Yellowstone school was built in 1918 and now houses commercial businesses including the restaurant. This is a wonderful place to dine. They work hard to source locally as much as possible to support the local economy and offer a very well-rounded menu with nightly specials and several elk and bison options; think delicious bison meatloaf or elk tenderloin medallions with a blueberry-tarragon reduction. The Slippery Otter Pub is a rowdy, casual pub with good service and tasty food. Try a bison burger or jalapeno wontons with huckleberry sauce. The Book Peddler is a coffee shop tucked in the back of a store. This is where the locals grab coffee. The baked goods are house made, and the blueberry scone is light and delicate, and pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee. What to Do No trip to the area is complete without a trip to Yellowstone National Park. Always stunning, it will blow you away with its beauty during the winter months. Mounds of snow contrast with steaming geysers, and wildlife viewing is at its peak. If you are going to splurge on anything during your trip, make it hiring Yellowstone Guide Amy Beegel, Easy Tours Yellowstone, LLC to guide your snowmobile trip into the park. Certified guides are required in the winter months, and Amy is a pro. Super fun and so knowledgeable about the park, she will curate your tour to fit the interests of your group. A great guide makes or breaks a trip, so contact Amy first and she will help you arrange the snowmobile rentals. Plan for a full-day adventure. Local outfitters also have snowsuits, gloves and boots available for rent. Be aware when making any kind of reservations that there is no cell phone service outside of town, so many outfitters will get back to you in the evening after they have returned from day tours. You won’t be able to spot a bear in Yellowstone National Park in the winter because they hibernate, but the bears that live at the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center don’t hibernate. The center gives you the opportunity to explore the world of grizzly bears and gray wolves as well as the new River Otter Exhibit. Each exhibit has warm buildings so you can observe the animals both inside and outside. The center has also acquired a world-class exhibit BEARS once it completed its tour of the country. It is interactive and explores the ways bears have captured our attention through myth, art, literature, history and folklore. It is well worth a visit. The animals that live at the center can no longer return to the wild for a variety of reasons including being orphaned, a nuisance animal or suffered injuries. This is not a typical tourist attraction but an education center, and you will learn so much about the wildlife in the area. Your ticket is good for two days, so don’t be surprised if the kids ask to go back again. The Yellowstone Giant Screen and Trading Post makes a nice stop if the weather is not cooperating. It opens in the afternoon for shopping, and movies start at 3:30pm. The Yellowstone Movie shows every day and provides a good overview of the history of Yellowstone National Park. A current movie is also shown each day. Check with the theater for current listings and times. You’ll want to schedule in time to explore West Yellowstone by foot. It is a cute walkable town with a “Wild West” feel about it. If you want a special adventure, head out to Big Sky for a dogsled adventure with Spirit of the North. Unlike many companies, with Spirit of the North you will receive hands-on instruction and have the thrill of driving a sled dog team. If you’ve never been around an Alaskan huskies dog team, you are in for a treat. The dogs are high energy and love to run. They are friendly and enjoy receiving lots of petting. The trips take place 1 mile about the Mountain Village at the ski resort in what is known as Moonlight Basin. You’ll enjoy breathtaking scenery along the trail including views of Lone Mountain and the Spanish Peaks. Located around 30 miles outside of West Yellowstone, the historic 320 Guest Ranch offers evening sleigh rides. This magical ride takes you along the Gallatin River on a sleigh pulled by draft horses. On a clear night, being so far out of town, the stars are so bright in the night sky. The sleigh ride takes you to Mountain Man Campsite where you will enjoy wild game chili, a variety of snacks and hot beverages, with the option of adult beverages. Listen to ranch stories by the bonfire before heading back. The trip lasts about an hour. You can also arrange for a private sleigh ride. West Yellowstone is truly special during the wintertime. When planning for your trip, prepare for extreme weather and pack layers and warm clothing. Before heading out each day, check the weather forecast so you don’t get caught in an unexpected storm. For more information, visit DestinationYellowstone.com and YellowstoneDestination.com. The Specifics Where to Stay Yellowstone Lodge - YellowstoneLodge.com Where to Eat Madison Crossing Lounge - MadisonCrossingLounge.com Slippery Otter Pub - Facebook.com/Slippery-Otter-Pub-147231008691618 What to Do Easy Tours Yellowstone - EasyToursYellowstone.com Spirit of the North Sled dog Adventures - HuskyPower.com Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center - GrizzlyDiscoveryCtr.org Yellowstone Giant Screen - YellowstoneGiantScreen.com 320 Guest Ranch Sleigh Rides - 320Ranch.com

UNCLE NEAREST WHISKEY DINNER January 16 Coeur d'Alene Honey Eatery and Social Club teams up with Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey for an unforgettable evening. Thursday, January 16, from 6:30 to 9:30pm, enjoy a four-course dinner, two cocktails and two tastings, a short film, and hear the incredible story of the great whiskey maker the world never knew. Read more... TEDx CDA January 11 Coeur d'Alene TEDxCoeurdAlene 2020 promises to be an informative and inspiring event. Held 9am to 5pm at The Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Center, TEDx will feature 12 Talks, exciting live performances from local artists, and interactive experiences. The event grants attendees the opportunity to be the first to see selected Talks from the latest National TED Conference. Read more... HIGHLIGHTED EVENTS JANUARY 10 MUSIC WALK Though the weather may not be cooperating, tonight kicks off the first Music Walk of the year. Held the second Friday of each month, January through March, Downtown Coeur d'Alene is the place to be from 5 to 8pm, as participating businesses feature live music throughout the evening. It may be snowing outside, but great entertainment awaits. Read more... JANUARY 11 & 12 THE BRIDAL FESTIVAL The Northwest's premier bridal event, with nearly 200 vendors—wedding gown specialists, caterers, florists, photographers, travel agents and more—at the Spokane Convention Center, brides and grooms have the opportunity to meet one-on-one with the industry’s top wedding experts all under one roof, saving both time and money. Read more... JANUARY 16 COOKING CLASS & WINE PAIRING Join Chef Angelo Brunson of Angelo's Ristorante at Castaway Cellars for a cooking class and wine pairing. The menu features beef carpaccio with potato gaufrettes; arugula bistro salad with raspberry gorgonzola dressing, poached pears and candied pecans; basil tomato gnocchi; and flourless chocolate cake with spumante. Recipes will be available to take home. Read more... JANUARY 16 YOGA WITH SECOND HARVEST Second Harvest invites you to grab your mat and join them as you sweat it out for a good cause! The Union Studios is partnering with Second Harvest to bring a night of food-packing fun followed by yoga flow. The event includes a volunteer food sort, yoga, and snack and information session with Second Harvest. Proceeds benefit Second Harvest. Read more... For more happenings this week ... CLICK HERE Read SIZZLE Winter Edition 2019 CLICK HERE #newsletter

Now is the time to get yourself on track for total health Article and Photos By Mandy Braviroff Ringing in the new year for a lot of people is a way for them to start over or to even just start. Perhaps it's a resolution to work harder, work less or to take more vacations. I’m all for that, but for a lot of people, it’s getting fit and healthy. With 2020 being the year of clear vision, now is the time to get yourself on track for total health! So, I’ve shared some ways to help you and all of us feel a little better for the year ahead. The first way to total health is to change your diet. Dieting doesn’t have to be painful, even though the word has ‘die’ in it. It’s all about sticking to your goals and changing your habits. It can be a challenge to skip that extra helping when you can’t help it, but it can be done. Speaking to your physician or a dietitian can help immensely as well. A healthy diet is the No. 1 way to feel better all around, and finding the one that works for you is easy, as there are many to choose from. Some current popular diets range from Keto to Atkins and even the classic Weight Watchers. You don’t have to join a program to eat right, but sometimes they do help, especially if this is the area you struggle in. All it takes is changing out those bad habits and replacing them with better ones. Some simple ways to start on your own are by cutting fast foods and sugar and to start eating more fruits, vegetables and drinking the recommended eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day. The second way to find yourself in total health is to get moving. Get up and walk the block, take the stairs instead; whatever it takes, just move your body. A good way to help you get moving is to join a local gym like the Y. With two different locations in Spokane to choose from, it's an affordable family friendly place to help get you and your entire family healthy. If you’re slower paced and like smaller groups, you can join a local yoga studio, like the Spokane Yoga Shala, where you can try many classes like reiki, hot yoga and even mediation. Are you more of an outdoors person even with winter here? Spokane has some of the best trails in the Northwest. When the snow is clear on the paths you can head to North Spokane to the many trailheads, or you can head downtown and jog, walk, bike or board over by Gonzaga and head across the Centennial Trail down into the bustling Kendall Yards area. There are plenty of places here in our beautiful city to jog and enjoy, so find one close by you. When sticking to a healthy lifestyle, there are many local places to eat that support your goals as well. You can find many delicious keto foods and baking items at Cole’s Bakery, where they have a full menu to choose from including cookies, burgers and biscuits. If you're looking for a way to cleanse with your new start, Method Cafe has two locations to choose from where you can do a variety of juice cleanses, plus they serve organic smoothies, acai bowls and salads. Making smart choices to reach that goal is easy. Just take your time. Start slow if you feel you're going to quit—and keep it consistent. It only takes a few weeks for this new lifestyle to become a habit, which in turn becomes a healthier you. This isn't about being skinny, this is about total health, so be good to yourself during the process. And good luck on whatever goals you set for yourself in 2020. Just remember, you've got this!

The basic fundamentals of anti-aging By Jaime Crocker As a nurse practitioner working in the world of aesthetics, I often get asked, "What is the best thing I can do for my skin?" My answer to my clients is almost always retinol and sunscreen. Most of us are familiar with the benefits of sunscreen and the important role it has on anti-aging and protecting our skin from free radicals. However, very few are familiar with the benefits and actions of retinoids. Retinoids are a class of synthetic and naturally occurring vitamin A compounds and derivatives that include retinol and retinoic acid. Some retinoids, such as retinoic acid (Retin-A or tretinoin), are available by prescription only. Other retinoids, such as retinol, are cosmetic and can be found in various OTC products, however, it does not work as quickly nor as deeply as prescription retinoids (tretinoin). The primary mechanism of action for both tretinoin and retinol is to stimulate epidermal turnover, causing skin to rapidly exfoliate and make new, brighter skin while stimulating collagen and elastin. The result can be smoother, thicker skin with fewer imperfections such as sunspots, acne, fine lines and scarring. Retinoic acid (Retin-A or tretinoin) can be found in both topical and oral forms. Retinol is a topical retinoid. Both formulations require patience and commitment. For best results it takes three to six months of regular use before improvements in skin and reduction in wrinkles are apparent. The most common adverse effect of topical retinoids is skin irritation, notably erythema and peeling. The most severe adverse effect of systemic retinoids is teratogenicity (birth defects). Do not use these products while pregnant or considering pregnancy. Retinoids are recommended for daily use, yet due to the common side effect of redness, itching and flaking, most patients cannot tolerate the once daily application initially. If patients have sensitive skin or are new to a medical-grade skin regimen, I recommended to start off using tretinoin every other night or three times a week, working up to nightly use for best results. Retinoids should be applied at night due to increased sensitivity to sun exposure. Due to the increased cell turnover of the epithelium, it is recommended that anyone using tretinoin use a daily sunscreen SPF 30 or greater containing an increased level of titanium or zinc oxide. Even if you are not using a vitamin A product, daily sunblock is essential. Tretinoin and retinol are safe to use in conjunction with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and salicylic acid (SA); just stagger applications—acids in the morning and retinoid in the evening for additional benefits. I recommend avoiding use of glycolic acid and benzoyl peroxide at the same time due to increased exfoliation and epithelial turnover. Benzoyl peroxide is also known to oxidize retinoids, making them less effective. When is it not appropriate to use retinoids? Aside from pregnancy, caution should be applied when waxing or preparing for laser treatments of our upper body (areas where you apply retinoids). Your esthetician, PCP, dermatologist or aesthetic RN can educate you on pre-treatment instructions for the associated procedures; usually it is avoidance for five to seven days prior to treatment. I also caution my patients when planning a trip to a sunny destination. As you are more sun sensitive when using these products, this makes you at greater risk for sunburn. If we are working toward healthy skin, a sunburn is definitely not in the skin-care regimen. Protect your investment. Jaime Crocker is a nurse practitioner in Spokane, Washington, who is also the owner of Odara Medical Spa. Jaime has practiced in emergency medicine for the past 17 years and most recently entered into the practice of aesthetics. To connect with her, please follow her Instagram page at OdaraMedSpa or directly via odaraMedSpa.com.

The Inland Northwest RV Show & Sale returns for its 32nd year By Jillian Chandler “Whether you are ready to buy an RV or not, this is a great show to see,” says Steve Cody, Inland Northwest RV Show & Sale promoter. With hundreds of RVs both inside and outside the Spokane Fair and Expo Center, attendees will find multiple dealers offering great prices while competing for your business throughout the four days. From tent trailers to monster motorhomes with incredible innovations, slide outs, fireplaces, back-up cameras and much more, this show has it all. “We will even have a totally restored 1959 Aloha travel trailer,” says Steve. “Check out the Aloha, then see how far RVs have come in the last 60 years.” The largest show of its kind in the Northwest, he states that people are in awe by the number of RVs all in one place, taking over all nine main fairground buildings. In addition to the RVs, there’s added excitement with fun giveaways (trip for two to Nashville and the CMA Country Festival) as well as freebies from vendors. And for those who do buy an RV at the show, they’ll get 30 seconds in the Jamison Hook Allstate Cash Machine to grab all the cash they can! “The biggest reason we have been so successful is that we have multiple dealers at the show, not just one,” affirms Steve. “Show goers get to see several dealers, all in one location inside! They can compare prices before they buy and know they got a great deal.” General admission is $10, cash only, and kids 12 and younger are free with an adult. Even better, admission is good all weekend long! Show dates and times are Thursday, January 23, noon to 8pm; Friday, January 24, 10am to 8pm; Saturday, January 25, 10am to 8pm; and Sunday, January 26, 10am to 4pm. For additional information, visit SpokaneRVShow.com. “The best way to cure cabin fever is to come to the Inland Northwest RV Show January 23 through 26 at the fairgrounds and start dreaming about spring and summer,” says Steve. “Buying or dreaming, you will have a great time.”

HEALTH & FITNESS EXPO January 4 & 5 Spokane Don’t miss the largest health and fitness event of its kind in the Inland Northwest! Held at the Spokane County Fairgrounds, meet fitness experts on yoga, Pilates, spin, barre, strength training and more; shop fitness equipment, apparel and supplements, all under one roof! Admission includes unlimited classes! Read more... SPOKANE WEDDING EXPO January 4 Spokane This yearly event showcases the services of members of Spokane Weddings & Events, an association of wedding professionals providing you with the services you need to make planning a breeze. Held in an intimate setting at the Double Tree Hotel - City Center, attendees will have the opportunity to meet with the region’s most sought-after professionals 10am to 4pm. Read more... HIGHLIGHTED EVENTS JANUARY 3 2020 CHARITY BALL The Special Olympics Idaho - Kootenai County Bears team invites the community to their Charity Ball fundraiser. Dress to impress and enjoy a night of dancing, silent auction and family fun. All proceeds benefit Special Olympics Idaho - Kootenai County. Hosted by Anthem Church in Hayden tonight from 6 to 9pm, there is a suggested donation of $10 per adult at the door. Read more... JANUARY 3 FIRST FIRDAY AT ARTWORKS Join Artworks as they celebrate the New Year on Sandpoint's First Friday, January 3, from 5:30 to 7:30pm. They're pleased to welcome two new artists to the gallery: Diane Kinney, who turns recycled glass candle holders into beautiful works of art, and inspirational photo-artist Collene Auble. It's a whole new year at Artworks, where you'll always find something new, one-of-a-kind and local.Read more... JANUARY 9 BRIDE'S NIGHT AT BARRISTER Kick off your wedding planning at Barrister! This is one of Spokane's only open house-style curated boutique bridal shows. From 4:30 to 7:30pm, enjoy complimentary wine tastings, gourmet hors d'oeuvres, scratch-made desserts, swag bags and real life inspiration while you chat it up with the Inland Northwest's most elite vendors. Read more... JANUARY 9 COOKING CLASS Register to attend this intimate cooking class with Chef Aaron Fish of Eat Good Group, which promises to be both entertaining and hands on. Learn the skills of a chef while learning and creating new recipes. Held from 6 to 8pm at the Jacklin Arts & Cultural Center in Post Falls, class registration is $50 and includes a great meal, wine and recipes. Read more... For more happenings this week ... CLICK HERE Read SIZZLE Winter Edition 2019 CLICK HERE #newsletter

Exhibits continue to wow By Colin Anderson If you’ve meandered through one of the many car shows of the Northwest, you’ve probably seen some pretty cool rides. It’s a great way to get up close to a piece of history. The common vehicles featured in most of these shows are mid ‘50s to late ‘70s American-made automobiles. Some shows have rules as to how old the car must be to be shown, what condition it is in or where it was made. While these shows can be a lot of fun, especially for those who grew up driving one of these muscle machines, being able to see a wider variety of automotive history is a more difficult thing to find. Lucky for us, North America’s largest continuous “car show” can be found right in our backyard. And if you’ve never been, you are sure in for a treat. LeMay - America’s Car Museum is a bucket-list trip for those serious about automotive history but also a great time for those who know little to nothing about vehicles of the past or even how a car works; and that’s the beauty of this place. “It’s truly multi-generational,” said Ashley Bice, National Strategic Initiatives Officer with America’s Automotive Trust, a nonprofit organization aimed at preserving America’s car heritage. “Everyone walks away with a great experience.” The ACM collection includes some 300 cars, trucks and motorcycles inside the 165,000-square-foot complex, with vehicles spanning more than a century. “It’s all about the celebration of America’s love affair with the automobile, not one particular vehicle or brand,” said Bice. The collection varies from some of the earliest models ever made to some of the newest in luxury, high speed or concept on the market today. The museum came to be when Harold and Nancy LeMay had amassed the largest privately owned collection of vehicles and memorabilia in the world. When asked about his collection, the late Harold LeMay said, “I don’t go for just the dollar value car. If it is unusual, I like it. So, I am kind of a maverick, since I am not a dyed-in-the-wool Chevy, Ford or Duesenberg man. I see it, I like it, I buy it.” After amassing such a large collection, and seeing the sheer enjoyment of guests at their annual car show and open house at the couple’s homestead, the LeMays made the decision that instead of seeing their collection scattered and auctioned off to private owners, it would be better served as a piece of history that all could enjoy. After more than a decade of planning, grant writing, fundraising, ups and downs, and surviving the economic downtown, ground was broken in 2011, and the museum saw its doors open for good in June of 2012. Since then, thousands of visitors from all 50 states and 47 countries have passed through the doors to admire this truly one-of-a-kind collection. First-time visitors are amazed almost instantly as they walk through the doors. Most museums typically display only a small portion of their collections, as many of the rare artifacts are kept in storage and away from the public eye. Rather unique to LeMay - America’s Car Museum is that the collection is held in an “open air” setting. Vehicles that aren’t currently on display in one of the numerous exhibits are still open for easy public view in the center lower levels of the complex. While the LeMays are the primary donors to the museum, other cars, trucks, motorcycles and unique pieces of automotive history have come from many different sources. According to Bice, two-thirds of the vehicles on display come from private donors—not just from the area but across both oceans. “We had a 1941 Buick go to China for an exhibition and then back to the museum. Our 1927 La Salle that is currently on display competed in the 2011 Mille Miglia in Italy,” she said. It’s a unique opportunity for collectors as they have a safe place to display their car where thousands more people will get to see and experience it than at a regional car show. It also helps the museum continually bring in new pieces of history to share as the exhibits rotate often and showcase different brands, eras and styles. “You don’t have to be a ‘car guy’ to enjoy this place, but if you are, there is definitely a lot of eye candy to enjoy,” said Bice. Getting the unique autos is often a two-way street. Sometimes the museum is made aware of a special car or vehicle that would make a great fit for an upcoming exhibit, making a request to the owner; and other times, the vehicle’s owner is made aware of the museum and wants to be part of sharing its history with others. The museum recently wrapped up displaying one of the more unique collections on the planet. While many donate a single vehicle or maybe a couple, Brown M. Maloney loaned LeMay 125 Honda motorcycles from multiple decades. Maloney was highlighted in the 2019 Master Collector’s Exhibit, which is reserved for “dedicated enthusiasts whose passion for cars knows no bounds.” A new Master Collector will be featured later this year. The collection at LeMay includes just about anything you can think of, along with several vehicles and artifacts you might not have known to exist. One exhibit might include the earliest Cadillac, Model Ts and Model As, and around the corner you’ll find a display of British-made automobiles. Muscle cars and family wagons, high-end ultra-fast sports cars and even the foot-powered “Flintmobile” from the 1994 Flintstones movie are on display for guests’ enjoyment. One of the more popular exhibits is Route 66, which includes a rotating interactive collection of cars and memorabilia to celebrate America’s iconic roadway. This exhibit is dedicated to the heyday of American automobile travel and helps a younger generation see what a family road trip on this iconic highway looked like in the 1950s and ‘60s. First-time visitors should set aside some time to visit Lucky’s Garage to learn about Harold LeMay, his passion for automobiles, how he came to own so many and his decision to put them on display for all to enjoy. This is a permanent exhibit paying tribute to those who made it all possible. Though initially popular in the south, NASCAR’s following has grown not just nationwide but has spread to a worldwide audience. Two-hundred mile-per-hour super cars dominate the tracks today, but this sport got its humble beginning from southern moonshiners tuning engines for a few extra horsepower in order to avoid the law while running their illicit alcohol. In the Legends of Motorsports: The NASCAR story you’ll not only learn about how the sport began to blossom but see the evolution of race cars, many of which you’ll recognize from popular drivers throughout its history. If you want to take your racing experience up a notch, be sure to stop by the Speed Zone. Here you are strapped into a state-of-the-art CXC racing simulator so you can get the feel of track and slot car racing. One of the most exciting new exhibits at LeMay is Saleen: From the Heart of a Racer to America’s Supercar. The incredible display was unveiled this past fall with Steve Saleen in attendance. Visitors are treated to a unique display of Saleen’s rich automotive history spanning over four decades. You can enjoy a variety of historic vehicles on display, including his personal racing machines, early Saleen Mustangs, the Saleen S7 (considered America’s first supercar), and examples of the company’s new Saleen 1 mid-engine turbocharged sports car and recently unveiled Saleen 1 GT4 concept race car. Other exhibits include the opulent rides of the 1930s and a wing of all British-made autos. There is no shortage of vehicles to see, but there are also great opportunities to get hands on and interactive as well. “We have dedicated spaces for kids and families to really experience automobiles,” said Bice. These include the photo car where you can have your picture taken with a 1923 Buick touring car. There is also the Family Zone which has multiple interactive pieces for kids to explore. Here they can study how a car works by looking at an exposed chassis, build and race pinewood derby cars, get behind the wheel of a Mustang, and design their own car. Many school groups have come through the museum, and there are also family-focused programs as well as adult-only programs on the calendar. What’s truly amazing is the museum is run almost entirely on a volunteer basis. These folks handle everything from tour guides, greeters and manning various interactive stations to monitoring the collections and doing general maintenance and upkeep on the collection. While many of the museum’s collection will likely never see outdoor roadways again, that isn’t to say you won’t soon see and hear some of them rumbling the streets of the Northwest. “Our Drive Home program takes vehicles from the collection and gets them out on the road driving from one point to another,” explained Bice. In fact, part of the collection will take a unique journey later this year. To recreate the iconic American road trip, vehicles from LeMay will be brought to California in late spring and driven across the country, eventually landing in Detroit for the American Auto Show in June. The cars will be making stops at famous points of interest and National Parks along the way. “We really want to keep the hobby alive, and this is a great opportunity to get people to see these cars up close, outside, and appreciate the history,” said Bice. While any time of year is a great time to visit, those wanting an even more unique experience will want to mark their calendars for the evening of March 13. Each year, the museum hosts a yearly party called Drive the Blues Away. This year’s theme is “Viva Las Vegas.” Guests can still wander throughout LeMay - America’s Car Museum, but you’ll also be treated to food, drink and live music as you peruse the collection. Tickets will be going on sale soon for this exclusive event. When the weather turns brighter and warmer, you’ll find even more fun outside the museum walls with Cruise Ins and Drive-In movies featuring a 40-foot screen. Take a Spin will put you in a moving car, which could be anything from a Packard to a vintage fire truck. There is always something new to find at LeMay - America’s Car Museum. New visitors are astonished by the sheer scope of the place, while members continue to find new details they might have missed on previous visits. Nowhere else can you find a collection of such variety, all thanks to the incredible generosity of Harold and Nancy LeMay.

What to Expect When You’re Remodeling By Nikki Luttmann, Interior Designer I love January. The stress of the holidays has passed, and the new year is a clean slate. It seems like the perfect time to start fresh on a project—whether that’s developing a healthy eating plan or fixing up our homes. Last year, my husband and I decided that we would concentrate on remodeling the exterior, including new windows, doors and siding, and I’m happy to report that we were able to achieve our goals and stay married in the process. That’s not always an easy feat—remodeling or building a home can be stressful. Many of my clients underestimate the amount of stress a construction project may cause. Especially for those who have no option but to stay in their home during the process, it can be very trying indeed. Before you undertake a remodeling project, I urge you to educate yourself on the process. Following are a few common home projects and some of the things required for each one. Whole house painting This can be very rewarding and perhaps the most common of all remodeling projects. However, before you hire that painter, keep in mind that this process can be very invasive. All artwork must come off the walls, furniture must be moved to the center of each room, light fixtures should be removed, and floors and furniture will be tarped off. As well, windows and doors may be taped over (if they are spraying), and the air may be fairly toxic for a few days. Ask your painter how long the process will take and ensure that they can be at your house for the time it takes to finish, not breaking off to different jobs in between. Also ask the method they will use to paint—rollers, brushes or spray—and ask if the paint they use is low in VOC (volatile organic compound) emissions. This will help you determine whether you should stay or just check into a hotel room for the week! Kitchen remodeling This can include new cabinetry, flooring, countertops, paint, etc. Sounds like fun, right? But if not scheduled properly, with a kitchen remodel, days can easily turn into weeks of no appliances, no countertops and cooking exclusively outdoors on a barbecue! This might be OK in the summer months, but in the winter, it can be hard to live without the ease and comforts of your kitchen. Working with experienced contractors and sub-contractors and having your decisions made ahead of time are key to keeping your sanity throughout the process. New flooring This is one of my favorite changes to any home, and there are some wonderful options out there. LVP (luxury vinyl plank) for example, comes in many colors and subtypes and boasts a fairly easy installation process. An entire home can be installed in LVP in less than a week if you are dealing with experienced flooring installers. Opposite this product on the spectrum of installation, however, would be sand and finish hardwood. This is an amazing look that truly sets your home apart, but it can be very time-consuming. First the wood is installed, then sanded, then layers of product are applied in coats. Finally, the whole thing has to cure for two days before furniture can be put back on. After that, it takes a full month for the new floor to fully cure and harden. Bathroom tile This is one category that truly depends on the professionalism of your installer. If you are removing old tile, this is best done by a professional, as they will be able to remove the old tile with minimal damage to the subfloor or walls behind. I can’t stress enough the importance of appropriate waterproofing in showers and wet areas. If your installer is good, he will be able to save you a lot of headache down the road in good prep, waterproofing and overall tidiness. But, keep in mind, they will need access to water for their tile saw and a relatively enclosed, preferably heated, space for cutting. Oftentimes, a garage is perfect, but please don’t expect your tile installer to set up their wet saw outside in the middle of winter in freezing temperatures. This isn’t fair to them as craftsmen, and I know that my fingers do not work their best if they are frozen solid—and neither will your tile installer’s! In next month’s article, we will continue the list of projects, so stay tuned and have a happy new year!