Living Magazine November 2022

Methodist Family Health Center – South Arlington welcomes Tina Joseph, DO

She

Designed

Methodist Family Health Centers and Medical Groups are owned and operated by MedHealth/Methodist Medical Group and are sta ed by independently practicing physicians who are employees of MedHealth/Methodist Medical Group. The physicians and sta who provide services at these sites are not employees or agents of Methodist Health System

hospitals.

Tina Joseph,

the

area for more than a decade, and now she’s making Methodist Family Health

home.

Stephanie Tipton,

the center’s newest primary

Tina Joseph, DO

Photography may include models or actors and may not represent actual patients. ©2022 Baylor Scott & White Health. BSWOSH_12_2022_Radiology_v1_BR. Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic and Spine Hospital – Arlington is a hospital in which physicians have an ownership or an investment interest. The list of physician owners or investors is available upon request. We are fully licensed by the state of Texas and Medicare certified. Our facility is also accredited by The Joint Commission. We are an affiliate of United Surgical Partners International, and partnered with local physicians. Physicians are members of the medical staff and are neither employees nor agents of Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic and Spine Hospital – Arlington, United Surgical Partners International, Baylor Scott & White Health, or any of their subsidiaries or affiliates. Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic and Spine Hospital – Arlington complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability or sex.

SAVES Early Screening LIVES

Colon cancer can manifests itself in the form of polyps These polyps can be removed, which reduces your risk of dying of cancer by 90%. Your personal risk and prevention steps can be determined at a screening with your local GI Alliance gastroenterologist.

We recommend regular screening beginning at the age of 45 in order to detect cancer early. If colon cancer runs in your family, then we suggest receiving a colonoscopy at a GI Alliance location near you as soon as you can.

Treatment for colon cancer can vary depending on the stage of the cancer. Every case is unique, but the best thing you can do for colon cancer is to completely prevent it. To schedule a colonoscopy, contact GI Alliance today.

Dr Moustafa Youssef Dr. Suwebatu Odunsi Shiyanbade Dr Gregory LBrennan

ittee Anna Sam NP

There are many options when

optimization, but there’s only one

you’re

myhormonelevels.com

letter from the publisher

Anna Charles, LaRue Novick, Meredith Knight

“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!”

1 John 3:1

Welcome to the month of thanksgiving, family, friends, and all our favorite foods. November means cool weather, warm drinks, and cozy fires. Goodbye to October and all things pumpkin spice, and hello to a time of Thanksgiving and the start of the holiday season. As we begin to check off a list of all the blessings for which we’re so thankful, let’s not forget the greatest blessing of all— God Himself.

It’s amazing to know that God loved us from the beginning of creation and continues to love us in spite of all our doubts and failings. God loves us because He Himself is love. Unlike you and me in our spiritual journey wanting God to bless us and give us more, more, more, God would continue to love, even if no one turned to love Him in return. Because, as 1 John 4:16 tells us plainly, “God is love.” This Thanksgiving, as Natalie Grant sings, “Help me want the Healer more than the healing. Help me want the Savior more than the saving. Help me want the Giver more than the giving. Help me want You, Jesus, more than anything.” Happy Thanksgiving from my family to yours!

DANIELS, OWNER/PUBLISHER mdaniels@livingmagazine.net 682-556-1246

SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jennifer Kelley

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Joseph Villegas Justin Womack

CLIENT SERVICES MANAGERS Jenefer Grady Veronica Garza

O UR M A Y O R S

m a y o r MICHAEL EVANS

Thanksgiving will be the month's overarching theme for the plethora of events and activities that take place in November. Join us in honoring Mansfield’s veterans at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 5 for the Mansfield Veterans Day Parade and Salute. The acclaimed parade returns to Historic Downtown, followed immediately by a musical patriotic salute in front of The LOT amphitheater located downtown. For more information, visit www.mansfieldtexas.gov/veteransday

While in the downtown area, please set your schedule to visit two special exhibits:

The "Women In Aviation" exhibit will be available now through Dec. 2 at the Historical Museum & Heritage Center, 102 N. Main St., and the Farr Best Theater, 109 N. Main St. It will also be a treat for you to visit the "Remembering Our Fallen" exhibit from Nov. 4-6, also at The LOT amphitheater

Grand Prairie offers an abundance of family fun during the holidays. Highlights include:

Nov. 24 - Dec. 31

Prairie Lights at Lynn Creek Park

Nov. 25 – Dec 11

Twas the Night Before by Cirque du Soleil at Texas Trust CU Theatre

Nov. 26 – Dec. 18

Photos with Santa at Traders Village Nov. 26-Dec. 25

EpicWaters H2Olidays Dec. 2- 11

A Christmas Story The Musical, Uptown Theater

MAN S FIEL D

located in Downtown, 110 S. Main St.

Finally, the month of November ends where the Christmas holiday season begins with our Hometown Holidays beginning Nov. 30 through Dec. 3. Four days filled with midway rides, Santa visits, an ice ride, interactive art, and special highlights to each day, like the tree lighting, fireworks, and a drone show! As well as wonderful performances by Mansfield ISD students. The United States Marine Corps has entrusted Mansfield with its own Toys for Tots donation event, and Hometown Holidays will host toy drop-offs. Get more information and ride tickets at www.MansfieldHometownHolidays.com. We'll see you around town!

Dec. 2-26 (closed Dec. 25)

Ice skating rink, City Hall Central Dec. 3 and 10

Farmers Market and Gift Market Dec. 10

Snow Ho Ho at Warmack Library Dec. 12

The Ultimate Christmas Variety Show, Uptown Theater

Hope your holidays are Prairie and bright,

There are never enough words to express our appreciation to our military and their families, men and women who serve so we can enjoy all the blessings that come with being Americans and their loved ones who “keep the home fires burning” while they do. One of the least things we can do is help them transition back into civilian life, when the time comes. The 11th Annual Hiring Red, White & You! Statewide Job Fair is one way we do that. This year’s job fair is scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 10 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Globe Life Field in Arlington. Joint-sponsored by Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County, The Texas Workforce Commission, and the Texas Veterans Commission, this statewide job fair connects transitioning service members, military spouses, National Guardists, reservists, veterans, their family members, and the

general public to employers looking to hire in our area. It will include 150-plus employers with more than 5,000 job openings. Job seekers can pre-register on our website at ArlingtonTX.gov to avoid lines the day of the event.

The state of Texas has the second largest veteran population in the nation with over 250,000 veterans. As we count our blessings this month, let’s not forget the men and women who have fought and sacrificed for our freedom and liberty. Veterans Day 2022 is November 11th. Let’s let these brave men, women, and their families know what they mean to us—on Veterans Day and every day.

m a y o r RON JENSEN

GRAN D PRA I RI E

m a y o r JIM ROSS

ARL I N GT O N

NOVEMBER 1-30

DADDY DAUGHTER DANCE 2023

Arlington Parks and Recreation

Our Daddy Daughter Dance is March 4, 2023. Registration opens November 1 and goes thru November 30. $24 per person. Visit our website.

NATURALLYFUN.ORG

NOVEMBER 11,12,13

THE GLASS MENAGERIE Mainstage Classic Theatre Mansfield

Set in a small St. Louis apartment circa 1937 during the Great Depression, Amanda Wingfield struggles to guide her two children to happy, independent lives of their own while simultaneously dreaming of her old life of love and freedom. Her daughter Laura, an affectionate girl who religiously collects glass animals, all find their way through triumph and loss, while searching desperately for hope in what the future may hold for them. Ticket prices adults $15, seniors $12, students $10. Farr Best, 109 N. Main St. Visit our website for show times.

MAINSTAGECLASSICTHEATRE.ORG

NOVEMBER 12

RUN WITH HEART Mansfield

Step out for your health and a good cause. Choose from a half marathon, 5K or one-mile fun run/walk. Enjoy family activities including clowns, music and face painting. The race starts at Methodist Mansfield Medical Center, 2700 E. Broad St. For details visit

our website.

METHODISTMANSFIELDRUNWITHHEART.ORG

NOVEMBER 12 AND 26

MOBILE PET ADOPTION EVENT

Arlington

Adorable adoptable pets looking for new homes will be available at the mobile adoption unit for immediate adoption! Visit with adoptable cats available inside PetSmart! Adoptions will be at the Petsmart® in South Arlington, 203 E. I-20 (Arlington Highlands) 10:00am-3:30pm. Scheduled events are subject to cancellation without notice due to weather conditions (heat, cold, storms, etc.) for the safety and protection of adoptable pets, volunteers, and staff.

NOVEMBER 21-23

THANKSGIVING BREAK CAMP

Arlington Parks and Recreation

Want a great way to spend Thanksgiving Break? Three days full of fun games and activities. Bring a sack lunch and we’ll provide the afternoon snack. Ages 5-12. Starting at $105/week. Pre-registration required. Visit our website for details, rec center locations and registration.

NATURALLYFUN.ORG

NOVEMBER 24 - DECEMBER 31

PRAIRIE LIGHTS

Grand Prairie

Be dazzled with 4 million lights set along 2 miles of path. Hundreds of all new displays

november 17

FRIENDSGIVING LUNCH

Arlington Parks and Recreation

55+ years. Leave the cooking and cleaning behind and come join our Thanksgiving Luncheon at the EAST! It’s the perfect opportunity to share the holiday season with others and enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving meal with all the trimmings. We’ll have prizes and entertainment for your enjoyment. 11am-1pm. 1817 New York Ave. Space is limited and reservations are required. Visit our website.

NATURALLYFUN.ORG

in shapes of all kinds line and arch over the roads. Experience the Holiday Village, sweets and eats, carnival, walk thru forest, photos with Santa, vendors and photo opportunities. This is the premier holiday light park in Texas! Lynn Creek Park, 5610 Lake Ridge Parkway. Visit our website.

VISITGRANDPRAIRIETX.COM/EVENTS/ PRAIRIE-LIGHTS

NOVEMBER 30 -DECEMBER

HOMETOWN HOLIDAYS

Mansfield

Come and enjoy this four day holiday extravaganza! For over two decades Hometown Holidays has been the City of Mansfield’s huge holiday celebration. Since 2012 MISD has hosted its annual Toys for Tots extravaganza. Get ready for midway rides, an ice slide, carnival games, interactive arts, Santa visits, food vendors, Toys for Tots drop-offs, parade, tree lighting and fireworks, drone show and dance spectacular. Dr. Jim Vaszauskas Center for the Performing Arts, 1110 W Debbie Ln. For times and days visit our website.

MANSFIELDHOMETOWNHOLIDAYS.COM

see more events in your area on LIVINGMAGAZINE.NET

NOVEMBER 24 // DISENCHANTED

DISNEY +

It has been more than 10 years since Giselle (Amy Adams) and Robert (Patrick Dempsey) wed, but Giselle has grown disillusioned with life in the city, so they move their growing family to a suburban community. Suburbia has a new set of rules and a local queen bee, Malvina Monroe (Maya Rudolph), who makes Giselle feel more out of place than ever. Frustrated that her happily ever after hasn’t been easy to find, she turns to the magic of her former home, Andalasia, for help, accidentally transforming the entire town into a real-life fairy tale and placing her family’s future happiness in jeopardy.

THIS MONTH’S MUSIC

The King’s Speech tells the moving story of the relationship between King George VI (Colin Firth) and his unorthodox Australian speech therapist Lionel Logue (Geoffrey Rush) as they face the abdication crisis and the greatest test of all — the Second World War.

WHAT TO READ

NOVEMBER 8 // THE CROWN IN VOGUE

NOVEMBER 4

BABY

WELCOME

ALICIA KEYS

The Crown in Vogue is an illustrated tribute to the 70-year reign of Queen Elizabeth II and the British Royal Family from the pages of British Vogue. With four monarchs (crowned and uncrowned), one abdication, one royal investiture, a jewel box of jubilees, and many royal marriages, British Vogue , has borne witness to a century of royal history.

With visual treasures from Vogue’s unrivaled archive and contributions through the decades from the most perceptive of royal commentators — from Evelyn Waugh to Zadie Smith — The Crown in Vogue is the definitive, authoritative portrait of Queen Elizabeth II’s magnificent reign — and royalty in the modern age.

THIS MONTH IN MOVIE HISTORY

NOVEMBER 26, 2010 // THE KING’S SPEECH COLIN FIRTH, GEOFFREY RUSH, HELENA BONHAM CARTER DIR. TOM HOPPER (LES MISÉRABLES)

BY ROBIN MUIR & JOSEPHINE ROSS

Imagery from Disenchanted (2022) , Jonathan Hession, Disney +. Movie poster image from The King’s Speech (2010) , See-Saw Films. Book cover from The Crown in Vogue by Robin Muir and Josephine Ross (2022), with description excerpt from the publisher. All images are presented for non-commercial illustrative purposes.

Landon

CLAIMING YOUR confidence

STANDING FIRM ON THE FINISHED WORK OF JESUS

BY MIMI GREENWOOD KNIGHT

Do you know your God-given identity? Amanda Pittman thought she did. Growing up in Fort Worth, Texas, with a Dominican father and a Minnesota-farm-girl mom, Amanda found identity in her flute playing. She entered college ready to make music her life. But God had other plans. He led her to rededicate her life to Him and set her feet on a unique path. That path took her out of a life where she was mired in insecurity and self-doubt and into one where she’s helping others find their confidence in the finished work of Christ. For Amanda, it’s not about “fake it till you make it” but rather about an authentic journey with God. She sees that journey as having four distinct components — clarity, connection, competency, and conviction.

CLARITY

Knowing who you are and Whose you are changes everything. And it’s all documented in one precious book. Throughout the Bible, God goes out of His way to let us know we’re fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14). Our bodies are cherished temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). As Christians, we are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, and God’s special possession (1 Peter 2:9).

We are sons and daughters of the King. (John 1:12). Yes, we fight against an enemy who comes to still, kill, and destroy our identity, one who plants lies in our head about who we are.

But the Word of God tells us clearly and concisely that we are the apple of our Father’s eye. (Psalm 17:8)

CONNECTION

God created us to have a connection with Himself and connection with other believers. “Connection with God has to come first because that relationship affects every other,” Amanda said. “I found that when I put my connection with God first, and my relationship with Him deepened, He gave me direction and discernment and helped me choose my people and establish secure, Christian relationships.” God has a lot to say about our relationships. Jesus tells us clearly that He expects us to love others the way He loves us (John 13:34). God implores us to encourage one another and build one another up (1 Thessalonians 5:11 and Ephesians 4:29), to strengthen one another because “a cord of three strands is not quickly broken” (Ecclesiastes 4:12), and to demonstrate faith, goodness, knowledge, selfcontrol, perseverance, godliness, mutual affection, and love within our relationships (2 Peter 1:5-7). And He had so much to say about the relationship between husband and wife that He dedicated the entirety

of Song of Solomon (Song of Songs) to celebrate that connection.

COMPETENCY

For Amanda, competency has to do with expanding your capacity and “getting in reps” to become good at what you do. Philippians 2:13 tells us it’s God who works in us both to will and to do His good pleasure. He is an equipping God Who never calls us to do something without equipping us to do it with competency (2 Timothy 3:17). But Amanda says sometimes, before we can realize a level of competency, we need to heal mentally, emotionally, and spiritually and we do this through God’s word. In it, He tells us we are His handiwork (workmanship, masterpiece), created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do (Ephesians 2:10). He also promises to renew our minds through His holy word, so we can know what His good, pleasing, and perfect will is. (Romans 12:2)

God wants us to know we’re already equipped as Christ’s ambassadors to do what He’s calling us to do (2 Corinthians 5:20). “That sets us free from worrying what other people think, or even what we think about ourselves because our faith, hope, and confidence are no longer based on yourself or others, but on God,” Amanda said.

CONVICTION

Amanda says conviction is all about deep-seated faith. The good news is that faith isn’t something you have to muster up on your own. Even our faith comes to us from the Father (I John 5:4). “I don’t believe it’s possible to never feel fear and never feel incompetent,” Amanda said. “But we can have a conviction that’s greater than our fears and that

conviction is our love for people and our responsibility to them.”

If Christians were capable of fearlessness, God wouldn’t have bothered with scriptures like 2 Timothy 1:7, “God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” If we were capable of never feeling incompetent, He wouldn’t have bothered to assure us His power is made perfect in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9) and to offer us that blessed mantra, “I can do all things through him who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13).

Learn more about living boldly and confidently for Christ at ConfidentWoman.com.

Meet Amanda Pittman

Amanda Pittman is a wife, mother, author, keynote speaker at this year’s She Speaks Conference, and founder of Confident Woman Co., a ministry that equips women to stand confidently upon the finished work of Jesus. Through CWC, Amanda hosts retreats, conferences, online events, podcasts, videos, and more. Through her coaching program, Launch Confident, she and her husband, Michael, help business owners confidently and profitably launch their next digital product, course, or program. Amanda’s latest book is Stand in Confidence: From Sinking in Insecurity to Rising in Your God-Given Identity

Originally from Fort Worth, Amanda now lives in Allen, Texas.

LET HILLSIDE VILLAGE PUT A SPARK IN YOUR HOLIDAYS

COME HAVE SOME FAMILY FUN AT THE VILLAGE

Hillside Village offers family-friendly events that bring our community together all year long. Christmastime is even more magical. The same place that offers your family “lets-get-outside” fun with store events, promotions, and gatherings on the Village Green, is ready to put a spark in your holiday spirit with glittering family events throughout November and December.

Anchored by Dillard’s, Dick’s Sporting Goods and Barnes & Nobles, Hillside Village offers a vibrant collection of favorite national fashion retailers, dining, and unique amenities to get you right in the holiday spirit. Mark your family calendar for these holiday events. You won’t want to miss a thing.

VILLAGE LIGHTS

Saturday, November 19, 5:30 – 7:30 PM

5:30 PM K104 turns up the volume to awaken everyone’s holiday spirit, a real 10’ snow slide, festive entertainment, jolly photo-ops, holiday crafts, and more!

7:30 PM Be dazzled when Santa fl ips the switch on the giant 34-foot tree, turning Hillside Village into an enchanting winter wonderland.

SOUNDS OF THE SEASON

Village Green, Varies days & times

Enjoy a collage of musical seasonal delights while shopping with a variety of performances by local schools, churches, and professional musicians.

EXPERIENCE SANTA

Create memories with a special photo with Santa! Featuring a schedule of magical activities meant for everyone.

All photos, visits, and activities are located at Santa’s Corner, Suite 406, near Razzoo’s!

Nov 19 - 23

Saturday 6 PM – 8 PM

Sunday 12 PM – 6 PM

Monday - Wednesday 3 PM – 7 PM

Nov 25 - Dec 15

Monday - Thursday 11 AM – 7 PM

Friday - Saturday 11 AM – 8 PM

Sunday 12 PM – 6 PM

SANTA PAWS

Nov 21, 28 & Dec 5, 4 PM – 7 PM

Dec 16 - 23

Friday - Saturday 10 AM – 8 PM Sunday 12 PM – 6 PM

Monday - Friday 10 AM – 8 PM Dec 24 10 AM – 6 PM

Four-legged friends will have their own special time for photos with Santa. Consider bringing a bagof pet food for our friends at Tri City Animal Shelter.

ELF ACADEMY

Dec 6 & 13, 10 AM – 12 PM

Kids can create their very own special holiday craft project. Participation is free for children in preschool through kindergarten.

*While supplies last.

PJ PARTY WITH SANTA

Friday, December 9, 6 - 8 PM

Santa’s Corner, 305 W FM 1382, Suite 410 (Next to toddler play area) Join us for a Pajama Party at Santa’s Corner! Before your annual visit with Santa, enjoy sweet treats*, a coloring station, and more! Parents are invited to bring children to this free event in their favorite pajamas!

*While supplies last.

SENSITIVE SANTA

Sunday, Dec 11, 10 AM – 11:30 AM Santa knows some children need extra patience and quiet time when visiting.

Exclusively for families with special needs children and their siblings.

305 WEST FM 1382, SUITE 590, CEDAR HILL, TEXAS 75104 (972) 637-6300 | INFO@SHOPHILLSIDEVILLAGE.COM

In the event of inclement weather, a determination of weather-altered plans for outside events will be made on the day of the event. Check our Facebook page for updates. @Shophillsidevillage

For more information on events see www.shophillsidevillage.com

GRAND GIVING

COMMUNITIES FOUNDATION OF TEXAS’ 14TH NORTH TEXAS GIVING DAY, PRESENTED BY AMAZON, CLOSED OUT ITS ANNUAL 18-HOUR DAY OF GIVING WITH MORE THAN $62 MILLION RAISED BY GIVERS NEAR AND FAR. More than 94,000 donors rallied together for more than 3,200 participating nonprofits across a 20-county region.

Communities Foundation of Texas founded North Texas Giving Day 14 years ago to provide an easy way for everyone to support their community by donating to local nonprofits. Over the years, North Texas Giving Day has also become a platform to build the nonprofit sector’s capacity by providing fundraising tools and training support. This year the site served as a portal for givers to “find their passion and give with purpose.”

This year’s total brings the cumulative amount raised to more than $500 million since North Texas Giving Day launched in 2009. This year, gifts were received from all 50 states and 41 countries. The event was preceded by 21 days of early giving that included concerts, community events, festivals, and more to mark the giving extravaganza.

For more information and the full list of this year’s results, visit NorthTexasGivingDay.org.

NTX

COURTESY: NORTH TEXAS GIVING DAY PHOTOS: KIM LEESON, ALISON MILLS, CAN TURKYILMAZ, AND THE CITY OF ARLINGTON

Dallas skyline lit in honor of Giving Day.

Health and Wellness Festival hosted by ChildCareGroup in celebration with Communities Foundation of Texas.

2022 Nonprofit Kick-Off.

Scheels Celebrates NTX Giving Day at Grandscape.

Brad Thompson Band at Arlington Gives! concert sponsored by Arlington Tomorrow Foundation.

PET CLUB

FEATURED PETS this month

PET CLUB MEMBERS

To join the club, visit LivingMagazine.net/pet-club

Send your pet’s name, your name, your address, and a clear photo of your pet. They might just turn up in a future issue of Living!

Mango is a 29-year-old blue and gold macaw. He loves to dance and give kisses. He doesn’t have a large vocabulary, but he does say a few phrases, including “I love you” and “What’cha doin’?”. He lives with Razzle, a greenwing macaw, and his human mother.

Knox

Chloe Molly

Teddy

Cowboy Ninja

Mango

[ MINDFUL WAYS TO CUT DOWN HOLI DAY STRESS ]

BY AUDREY SELLERS

If you feel like you’re dashing from one soiree to the next, it can be hard to find time to enjoy the holidays. Fortunately, there are some ways you can scale back on the merriment while still embracing the magic of the season.

Just say no. The holiday hustle and bustle can sneak up on you if you accept every invitation and try to make every wish come true. Unless a party, gift, or trip is truly worth your time and resources, pass on it this year.

Create a budget. Before you run ragged buying all the things this holiday season, set a budget and stick to it. Determine how much you can spend on gifts, party supplies, and holiday travel.

Stay realistic. You don’t have to pull off the perfect holiday feast or try to outdo yourself from last year. Accept that your pie crust may burn, and you may not find that perfect gift for a loved one.

Stick with your healthy habits. Don’t let the holidays become a free-for-all.Overindulging in the hot buttered rum or fresh-baked snickerdoodles will only add to your stress. Make sure you eat nutritious foods, exercise regularly, and get plenty of sleep.

Take some time for yourself. When your children are nestled all snug in their beds, do something you enjoy. Relax with a cup of eggnog and a holiday movie or sink into a warm tub with a holiday bath bomb.

Downsize your décor. If you typically trim your house in lights and garlands galore, consider paring back this year. It’s not Grinch-y if it helps you feel happier and calmer.

Plan ahead. An easy way to manage the holiday hustle and bustle is to prepare for it. Are you hosting a party at home or for your kid’s class? Make a list of what you need to buy and when to have everything ready. Schedule time for shopping, cleaning, decorating, and baking. This can help eliminate the stress of scrambling at the last minute.

Delegate. Don’t feel like you need to do it all this holiday season. Enlist your kids to help in the kitchen with baking cookies and tap your partner to wrap presents or run to the store for supplies and ingredients.

Get some fresh air. Walking around the block or sitting outside in solitude can help relieve stress. It gives you time to reflect on the cheer, wonder, and joy of the season.

Give yourself (and others) some grace . When you accept that things may not go exactly as planned and the season may be a bit chaotic, you open yourself up to enjoying all the little things. Be kind to yourself and others.

best of

of

TIFFANY YOUNG & CREW

BY DREW ANDERSON PHOTOS BY LAUREN MEDEAN

Construction has historically been viewed as a manly and gritty profession requiring a strong back and rough hands, but this is not the case with Tiffany Young, owner of Tiffany Young & Crew. Tiffany brings a softer side to construction with her sole focus on providing a positive remodeling process for her clients. Tiffany and her crew walk their customers through every step of their remodel project from design to build out and color selection to punch out. Tiffany is a creative visionary, and her passion is transformation. Tiffany has a deep faith and loves “transforming the worn-out and damaged into the beautiful and restored, just like Jesus does with our lives”. Tiffany Young & Crew is a company that was born out of necessity. After doing a few remodels of her own and struggling to fl ip houses, Tiffany realized there was a lot of frustration associated with finding dependable contractors. Reliability, honesty and true craftsmanship was severely lacking. With 2 sons heading off to college, the need for a second income was prudent. Tiffany saw a need in the industry and decided to capitalize on her God-given talents of vision and creativity. Being reliable, providing excellent craftsmanship and

being completely transparent is at the core of her business. Some of their unique business practices include:

• Utilizing crews that work exclusively for Tiffany Young & Crew, allowing more control over scheduling.

• Exclusively using licensed tradespeople, including electricians and plumbers.

• Fully guaranteeing all their work.

• Complimentary design services for their clients.

Tiffany’s mom showed her from a very young age that there is nothing that compares to the comfort and feeling of home. “Our home was always beautifully decorated by my mom, and it is where my best childhood memories were made.” says Tiffany. “To be invited into someone’s home and help them create beautiful spaces is a high honor that I take very seriously. To give our very best effort to every client, every single time and leave them with

My dad is someone I have always admired. I have learned so much from him and now I am so blessed today to have him as a partner in my business. He keeps everything straight behind the scenes so I can fully focus on serving our clients”.

more than they expected is our goal and it is what drives me every day.” Tiffany said.

Tiffany Young & Crew’s only goal is to exceed the expectations of their clients. They attribute a large part of their success to the countless referrals they receive from satisfi ed clients. “Tiffany walked through every step with me and was the visionary that I couldn’t be” said Valerie, a former client. “Her crew is wonderful and are very hard working and conscientious of taking care of your home. I also can’t rave enough about the customer service they provide months/ years after they have completed the job.”

While Tiffany is the founder and visionary for the business, she has surrounded herself with incredibly knowledgeable and experienced people. She is supported by her father and business partner, Mike Hanner, who keeps all things in order. “My dad is someone I have always admired. I have learned so much from him and now I am so blessed today to have him as a partner in my business,” Tiffany said. “He keeps everything straight behind the scenes so I can fully focus on serving our clients”.

Former customer, Stephen Dedwylder is Vice President of Tiffany Young & Crew. Tiffany was hired by Stephen to design and remodel several of Stephen’s investment houses and eventually earned the honor of remodeling his personal home. Tiffany states with a smile “Stephen was absolutely the most particular client I have ever worked

with, and I knew that I needed his spirit of excellence on my team”. Stephen assists Tiffany with business development, where he put his business management degree and years of upper-level management experience to work. His attention to detail is peerless and his familiarity with real estate and remodeling, made him the perfect addition to Tiffany’s team.

One of the greatest strengths of the company, and what Tiffany calls “the backbone of the business” comes from the hands-on experience of the Project Managers in the fi eld. Zack Nixon, a true craftsman himself, is a tremendous asset to the team and the nicest guy you will ever meet. Zack brings 15 years of construction experience to the table. Chris Wilson, an encyclopedia of information who is unparalleled in trouble shooting, comes with 20 years of hands-on experience in the field. “Anything I can dream up, these guys can make it happen and always with a smile”, says Tiffany.

Tiffany also gains insight from her husband, Clint Young. Clint, a certified Master Builder with a degree in Construction Management, has over 28 years of experience in the construction industry. His wisdom, insight and constant support are a few of the reasons Tiffany described Clint as “the biggest blessing in my business”. In addition to being a Senior Vice President of Construction with the Billingsley Company, Clint serves as Tiffany’s top advisor.

After growing up in the small town of Baird, Texas, Tiffany and her family now reside in Mansfield. Tiffany and Clint have three sons, Hayden and Hunt are in college and Hayes is in the 7th grade. As a family they attend Lakeside Church of Christ, where they are involved in various ministries. Tiffany and Clint love being together and when they aren’t talking shop, they enjoy entertaining, watching football and cooking. Clint loves to cookout and I love to cook so you can always fi nd something good to eat at our house!

Tiffany Young is a rarity in this world and in her industry. Unlike most, she is not driven by money, and she doesn’t put a lot of stock into material things. Her motivation comes from helping others and creating beautiful spaces. Whatever your construction or remodel needs may be, Tiffany and her team are ready to assist you in bringing your vision to life and making your space truly special.

INSTITUTE FOR HORMONAL BALANCE

Nurse Practitioner Mandy Cotten is passionate about patient education. She loves nothing more than empowering men and women to take their health into their own hands and be their own best wellness advocate. Again, this year, Living Magazine readers thanked her by voting her Best Hormone Replacement 2022. Mandy still has a lot to teach about the benefits of bioidentical hormones therapy.

“Bioidentical hormones look exactly like your naturally occurring hormones,” Mandy said. “They enter your body, go directly to the receptor site, and achieve the desired results. While synthetic hormones must be metabolized through the liver first and converted to a different hormone—sometimes causing the opposite effect then what’s desired—bioidentical hormone therapy (BHRT) can be tailored to your specific needs and administered through your choice of creams, patches, pills, or pellets.”

BHRT can balance your mood, improve sleep, reduce brain fog, decrease hot flashes, decrease vaginal dryness, increase stamina and energy, increase muscle mass, decrease fat mass, and increase libido, heart protection, bone protection, brain protection, and enhanced sexual response and desire.

“My patients typically notice an improvement in seven-to-10 days or four-to-six-weeks with pellet therapy. Because hormone therapy isn’t black and white, patients sometimes need adjustments to their treatment plan. We begin with initial lab testing, then test again four to six weeks after initiating therapy. Most male patients end up needing pellet therapy every four to six months, female patients every three to five months.”

Mandy & her amazing team consult with her male and female patients about proper thyroid health which is imperative to overall health status. “Many practitioners only consider Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) which doesn’t offer the full picture of thyroid status,” Mandy said. “Assessing the Free T3 and Free T4 is necessary as well as comparing antibodies against the thyroid looking for autoimmune

dysfunction causing the thyroid problem. Often, patients have low thyroid symptoms, and the labs can appear normal, requiring additional testing such as looking at a reverse T3. Thyroid is involved in multiple aspects of health including metabolism, temperature regulation, mood, and cardiac function, so it’s imperative to find a provider who will evaluate the whole picture.”

Mandy Cotten, DNP, APRN, FNP-C has performed over 25,000 pellet procedures, averaging 300 a month. She completed her Bachelor of Science in Psychology and her Bachelor of Science of Nursing (BSN) both from Texas Christian University. She worked in labor and delivery at John Peter Smith hospital for five years before completing her Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Loyola University in New Orleans. She is certified by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).

“I believe in providing education and options to my patients through annual visits and hormone balance,” Mandy said. “I’m blessed to do what I love every day, partnering with my patients, educating them, and providing them with the best care possible.” When not on the job, Mandy enjoys spending time with her husband, Casey, and their daughter, Rylie.

The Institute for Hormonal Balance is a female owned and operated business. Kylie Bunner, DNP, APRN, FNP-C and Kara Kramer MSN, APRN, FNP-C are a integral part of the team at the IHB, and share in Mandy’s passion for patient wellness and communication. All three providers at the IHB have extensive knowledge in hormone optimization and have your best interest at heart, just ask their patients!

I’m blessed to do what I love every day, partnering with my patients, educating them, and providing them with the best care possible.

DR. SANDI HAMM AND DR. NICOLE GRANT

BY DREW ANDERSON

You deserve the best that contemporary dentistry can offer. Dr. Sandi Hamm and Dr. Nicole Grant invite you to experience dentistry that is more comfortable and efficient than ever. Using the very latest techniques and procedures, Dr. Hamm and Dr. Grant strive to give you the smile you’ve always wanted – comfortably and quickly, with results that stand the test of time. Specializing in complex restorative and cosmetic procedures, they bring state of the art technology and cutting-edge dental services to your entire family in a comfortable and welcoming environment.

“We want to keep our practice relationship orientated and create beautiful smiles along the way,” said Dr. Hamm. This philosophy is shared throughout the practice as they strive to understand your goals, concerns and expectations while supporting your health and wellness. They offer comfortable treatment rooms, an inviting atmosphere and personable team members to put you at ease for every visit.

As a longtime Mansfield resident, Dr. Hamm is proud to offer her services to her community. A graduate of Baylor College of Dentistry, Dr. Hamm has improved smiles for Dallas-Fort Worth patients for over 30 years. When she isn’t building beautiful smiles, Dr. Hamm enjoys yoga, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. She is also an active member of her community, participating in various business, school, and church events.

“I believe in getting to know my patients on a personal level and prefer to address their dental health in relation to their overall health,” said Dr. Hamm.

Dr. Grant, who graduated from UNLV School of Dental Medicine, is also dedicated to forming meaningful relationships with her patients. For her, what’s most important about being a dentist is taking the time to foster personal, long-lasting connections with people. Alongside Dr. Hamm, Dr. Grant works hard to create a stellar dental care experience in the Mansfield community. In her spare time, Dr. Grant enjoys

traveling and trying new restaurants as well as cooking and hosting dinner parties for friends and family. Additionally, she is a Captain in the US Army Reserves, where she joined as a dental officer in 2016, and is proudly serving our country.

Offering comprehensive general, restorative and cosmetic dentistry, Dr. Hamm, Dr. Grant and their team provide individualized care. Most importantly, they are dedicated to helping you maintain both your health and your smile throughout your life.

I believe in getting to know my patients on a personal level and prefer to address their dental health in relation to their overall health.

REGENCY PAIN & THERAPY INSTITUTE

BY DREW ANDERSON PHOTO BY LAUREN MEDEAN

Regency Pain & Therapy Institute is an interventional pain management practice serving the Dallas-Fort Worth area. In 2020, the practice completed construction on a beautiful 20,000 square-foot, stateof-the-art facility in Mansfield. This new facility offers patients a stunningly designed space with world class amenities, including a high-end physical therapy facility, well equipped procedure suites that accommodate less invasive procedures, a large multi-functional classroom and the nationally recognized Pritikin Intensive Cardiac Rehab (ICR) program.

Regency Institute offers innovative pain management techniques and technology with the patient at the center of everything they do. Patients will experience physicians who strive to be as conservative as possible and only progress to more interventional treatments, as needed. Their focus is on decreasing a patient’s pain while increasing productivity, minimizing medication use, maximizing physical activity and improving quality of life.

Additionally, they offer on-site physical therapy, a non-invasive discipline that helps patients develop, maintain and restore maximum body movement and physical function. Regency is confident that no matter your age or stage of life, physical

therapy can help patients recover from injury, relieve pain, prevent future injury or deal with a chronic condition.

Regency provides a full range of treatment options and services for patients suffering from chronic and acute pain. From conservative care treatment plans to the most advanced minimally invasive procedures, their team is committed to helping patients get back to their everyday activities as quickly as possible and without long term reliance on medications.

Regency Pain & Therapy Institute has consistently been recognized for its outstanding team of doctors and their amazing support staff. Continuing in the tradition of providing the best experience for their patients, Regency is pleased to welcome Dr. Cindy Ng to their practice. Dr. Ng is board certified in family and sports medicine and specializes in pain management. She earned her medical degree at Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine at the University of North Texas Health Science Center in Fort Worth; then completed her residency at Baylor Scott & White in Temple and her fellowship at John Peter Smith Hospital in Fort Worth.

Dr. Ng has served as a sports and pain specialist for several organizations including Texas Christian University, Texas Wesleyan University, NCAA Gymnastics,

Regency is confident that no matter your age or stage of life, physical therapy can help patients recover from injury, relieve pain, prevent future injury or deal with a chronic condition.

March Madness, Golden Gloves and the Fort Worth Rodeo. She has also served as team physician for several area high schools.

Dr. Ng’s clinical focus will be on maximizing conservative and interventional treatment of musculoskeletal pain and injuries for patients seen at Regency Pain & Therapy Institute. She brings a warm, personal approach to patient care and shares Regency’s commitment to excellence in patient care delivery. Dr. Ng is currently accepting new patients.

For the past four years, Regency Pain & Therapy Institute has been selected as ‘Best Of’ in Pain Management by Living Magazine. This recognition celebrates Regency’s commitment to excellence in providing the best possible experience to every patient they treat.

ACCENT PODIATRY ASSOCIATES

Some pain is easier to ignore. But pain in your feet and ankles can—quite literally—stop you in your tracks. Whether you’re experiencing pain from an injury, repetitive use, or a degenerative issue, the doctors at Accent Podiatry want you to know you don’t have to live with pain. Drs. Steve Silvey, Dharmesh Bhakta, Parth Bhakta, Shae Paschal, and Jacob Jasper spend their days partnering with patients of all ages providing comprehensive care including foot and ankle pain, bunions, heel pain, plantar fasciitis, diabetic wound care, flat feet, neuromas, children’s foot care, hammertoes, and Achilles tendonitis.

THE ROOT OF THE PROBLEM

The Accent Podiatry doctors have dedicated their careers to understanding the intricate workings of the human foot and ankle complex. Rather than merely treating the symptoms of foot and ankle pain, they’re committed to diagnosing and addressing the root cause of these and other foot or ankle problems—not simply masking symptom but treating the source of your pain or dysfunction. The votes are in, and their loyal patient base has voted them Best Podiatrist again this year.

ALL UNDER ONE ROOF

No matter the source of your pain it’s not just a natural part of aging. That’s why Accent Podiatry doctors provide diagnosis and care for everything from simple fungal nails to complex foot surgery—all under one roof. They place an emphasis on patient education, outlining all treatment options to their patients then partnering with them to pursue the least invasive options first. And although they are highly trained and experienced surgeons, they only recommending surgery, after all conservative treatments have been explored.

THERE WHEN YOU NEED THEM

The doctors and staff of Accent Podiatry Associates understand your life is hectic. Theirs is too! They are committed to making their practice and care as convenient and accessible as possible by respecting appointment times and making themselves available

when their patients need them. Their website at AccentPodiatry. com offers educational information on common issues of concern to their patients such as diabetic foot problems, heel spurs, ingrown toenails, Plantar Fasciitis, and more.

PATIENT-FIRST CARE

Patients praise the warm, welcoming environment at Accent Podiatry where the offices are fun places to visit, with doctors and staff who joke and laugh and remember your name. It’s easy to have that attitude when you love what you do. That jovial atmosphere is just one reasons their patients enthusiastically recommend them to family and friends.

Foot and ankle pain isn’t just a part of living. Let the professionals at Accent Podiatry Associates help you find the root cause of your foot/ankle problems and regain your active, pain-free live again. They accept most insurance plans and always welcome new patients.

BY MEREDITH KNIGHT

PHOTO BY LANDON DAY

Having chronic foot and ankle pain can greatly affect the quality of your life. We understand that and we

help.

ANTONIO

KAREN KANE

THE

Blake Open Front Patch

Long

Knit Fringe

DECODING dementia

BY PETE ALFANO

How often have people joked that they could recall in detail events from years ago but can’t remember where they put their keys? Or they met someone for the fi rst time yesterday and have already forgotten that person’s name today. Are these examples something to laugh about or symptoms of the onset of dementia?

That depends. Some memory loss can be part of the aging process. The World Health Organization estimates that 40% of those 65 and older will have some age-related forgetfulness. Those who experience more frequent bouts of forgetfulness are classifi ed as having Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). Memory loss, however, is only one symptom of dementia.

There are other warning signs for people with dementia, which is not a disease, but a condition caused by diseases that damage brain nerve cells. Memory loss, for example, occurs frequently, and often, those with dementia will combine two different memories or have the wrong people involved. People with dementia will have increasing difficulty communicating as they struggle to find the right words to express themselves. They might exhibit frequent mood swings and are prone to say something offensive or act inappropriately.

They may also become disoriented easily, have poor hygiene, use faulty reasoning, and have trouble understanding what is being said. Their eating habits can change, and they have increasing difficulty with balance and performing daily tasks. Now, having any one or two of these symptoms doesn’t mean a person necessarily has dementia. Sometimes, you forget things because you are distracted or thinking about something else. But exhibiting several of these symptoms is a red fl ag that should not be ignored.

Dementia cannot be simply attributed to aging. It is a group of symptoms and can also affect “younger” people, meaning those in their 50s and 60s. Is Alzheimer’s disease the same as dementia? No. Alzheimer’s causes dementia and is estimated to account for between 60 and 80% of dementia cases. Alzheimer’s occurs when deposits of specific proteins damage healthy brain cells. Parkinson’s disease, vascular cognitive impairment, Huntington’s disease, Lewy body dementia, and traumatic brain injury are other conditions that damage brain cells and cause dementia.

There are tests for anyone who is concerned about having symptoms of dementia or suspects that a family member has symptoms. Brain scans can show abnormalities such as tumors, bleeding, or protein deposits associated with Alzheimer’s disease. The Mayo Clinic says that simple blood tests, neurological and psychiatric evaluation, and cognitive testing are indicators of the onset of dementia.

Symptoms that mimic dementia, caused by factors such as vitamin deficiency, medication side effects, immune disorders, infections, or a brain tumor, may be reversed in some cases. However, there is currently no cure for actual dementia. Although medications and lifestyle changes can help manage it, unfortunately, the symptoms will gradually worsen over time for a great majority of dementia patients. A patient doesn’t die of dementia but an illness such as pneumonia, a heart attack, or cancer as bodily functions deteriorate. The thing to remember, however, is that dementia is not a normal and inevitable part of aging.

RECOGNIZING THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN MEMORY LAPSES AND DEMENTIA

TAME YOUR turkey neck PROCEDURES TO IMPROVE YOUR SKIN’S APPEARANCE

BY ANNETTE BROOKS

Let’s talk turkey. Sun exposure, weight fluctuation, and especially age can cause our necks to develop an unflattering turkey wattle appearance with droopy, wrinkled skin. The main culprits behind the dreaded turkey neck include weakened muscles and loss of skin elasticity and support. Sometimes the skin becomes so lax that folds appear.

Luckily, a growing number of cosmetic procedures designed to improve the appearance of a turkey neck are widely available. Noninvasive treatments usually produce noticeable yet more subtle results than a neck lift performed by a plastic surgeon. Choosing the procedure that’s right for you depends on several factors, including age, skin type, the severity of the condition, and the amount of downtime you can handle.

NONINVASIVE NECK REJUVENATION

Nonsurgical treatments can help you proactively maintain a youthful, ageless appearance. Talk candidly with your provider about what concerns you most about your neck so they can recommend a treatment or create a combination of services tailored to help fulfi ll your cosmetic goals.

Noninvasive procedures involve using technologies that harness the energy of light, ultrasound, and radiofrequency (RF) to lift, tighten, and restructure the skin by stimulating collagen and elastin production. Some also address excess fat. While technology can make a difference, remember that it’s only as good as the provider. There’s no substitute for the skill and expertise of a highly experienced physician or licensed aesthetician.

LIGHT POWER

Laser neck rejuvenation with fractional CO2 and non-ablative Nd: YAG lasers, and more, treat skin laxity, texture, and pigmentation. Some platforms combine different laser

wavelengths to optimize results. Depending on your goals, BBL (broadband light), which is not a laser but a type of intense pulsed light (IPL), is used to improve the appearance of a turkey neck.

ULTRASOUND MAKES WAVES IN COSMETIC SERVICES

Ultherapy targets ultrasound energy deep within skin layers. The waves give off heat that prompts collagen and elastin production. Improvements are typically gradual, taking about three to six months for optimal results to appear.

Another technology — Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam (SUPERB) — utilizes ultrasound energy to lift the area beneath the chin and tighten lax neck tissue.

RADIOFREQUENCY TO THE RESCUE

We’ve seen an explosion of devices that use RF to address sagging skin in the lower face and neck. They include Morpheus8, one of the newer, customizable, deep fractional RF treatments designed to reduce fat and stimulate skin rejuvenation by boosting elastin and collagen. Other RF technologies used to treat the lower face and neck include, but aren’t limited to, FaceTite, Evoke Neck, and Thermage FLX.

DRAMATIC, LONGER-LASTING RESULTS

If you want more pronounced results, an elegant neck contour that typically lasts for years, and can spare a little more downtime, consult with a plastic surgeon about getting a neck lift. This highly customized and nuanced surgery involves carefully removing excess skin and fat. Platysma muscle bands — vertical cords that appear in the neck with aging — may also be addressed during a neck lift.

Although there’s no “perfect” age for a neck lift, most people don’t develop significant signs of aging in their neck until around age 40 and up.

of

PLUMP it up

FACIAL FILLERS REVERSE SIGNS OF AGING AND ENHANCE YOUR NATURAL BEAUTY

BY ANNETTE BROOKS

Think of your face as a plum. Voluminous and plump when you’re young, it loses volume with age, gradually becoming more prune-like. When this loss of volume occurs — caused partly by the breakdown of collagen and elastin that provide structure and elasticity — wrinkles and folds appear.

Thankfully, injectable dermal fillers offer a convenient, nonsurgical solution that replaces lost volume. Injections are performed in-office, results are often instant, and downtime is usually minimal, typically involving some bruising and redness which subsides in a couple of days.

DESIGNER FILLERS

Since 2003 when the first hyaluronic acid (HA) filler was FDA-cleared, a procession of new and improved fi llers has followed. Today’s designer formulations often target different areas of the face, such as the cheeks, lips, chin, nasal-labial folds, and marionette lines, compared to a one-size-fits-all filler approach.

Certain temporary fillers last longer than others, but generally, fillers last from six months to a couple of years, depending on many factors. Repeat treatments will be required to maintain your results. Over time, your provider may adjust the type of filler and the amount used to help ensure optimal results.

POPULAR USES FOR FACIAL FILLERS

Highly skilled, experienced dermal fi ller injectors are true artists. Working with a palette of different fillers and a needle and syringe instead of paints and a paintbrush, they can achieve natural-looking results that meet your desired goals.

Create a snatched jawline. Snatching is a newer term that describes a tighter and more defined or sculpted jawline. Filler can be ideal for someone who has lost volume along the jawline or chin over the years.

Diminish marionette lines. Fillers smooth out these creases, which extend from the corners of your mouth to your chin.

Plump the lips. Whether Mother Nature gave you thin, flat lips or they’ve lost volume with age, fillers are great for perfecting your pout.

Soften nasal-labial folds. Smile or laugh lines are filled in to create a smoother, softer appearance.

Smooth vertical lip lines. Fillers are used for both lipstick lines and smokers’ lines. Even a minimal volume of the product injected into precise locations along the vermilion border can produce noticeable results.

Smooth chin wrinkles. From horizontal chin creases and vertical lines to a bumpy cobblestone chin, fillers can recontour and redefine your chin.

Correct facial asymmetries. No one’s face is perfectly symmetrical, but a noticeable unevenness in features can detract from your natural beauty. In many cases, fi llers can provide a more balanced appearance.

Lift and enhance cheeks. Restoring cheek volume provides greater definition and lift, creating a more contoured look.

Smooth undereye hollows. HA fillers are commonly used to treat under-eye hollowness and pronounced tear troughs.

Meet

Season of SGratitude eason of Gratitude

Robert Kent Smitherman, M.D., F.A.C.P.

Tawakoni Jones, APRN, FNP-C

Our trusted primary care providers are dedicated to delivering a full range of quality health care to their community. We o er preventive and routine care and chronic disease management. Same or next-day appointment available for urgent needs.

Now accepting new patients. Schedule your next appointment today.

Texas Health Internal Medicine: 4901 S. Collins Street Arlington, TX 76018 817-672-9885

Texas Health Internal Medicine is a Texas Health Physicians Group practice. Providers employed by Texas Health Physicians Group are not employees or agents of Texas Health Resources hospitals. © 2022 Texas Health Resources

Did you know?

Those who practice gratitude in addition to receiving counseling services report more positive benefits, even when the gratitude practice is brief.

Benefits include a more positive outlook on life, lower levels of stress, and overall higher levels of happiness.

Call

to schedule your appointment today!

Red and green at Christmas go together like turkey and dressing, chips and queso, and watching the Cowboys on Thanksgiving Day. But every year, the stores tempt me with adorable new decor ideas that make me want to switch things up. Here’s some color palette inspiration to deck your halls this season.

BOLD AND BRIGHT

Sprinkle a little sparkle like these mini trees on a mantle. For a bolder look, I decorated the white tree in my dining room with some vintage Santa’s in a rainbow of hues. Don’t be afraid to use non-ornament tree decor. Instead of ornament hooks, I just secured my Santa fi gures on the tree with zip ties. Once they were on the tree, I fluffed branches to conceal the plastic.

BLACK, WHITE, AND A TOUCH OF RED

Black for Christmas? You bet! Black is timeless. And paired with classic white and a touch of Christmas red, you’ll have a unique twist to celebrate the season.

BLUSH, NAVY, AND CHAMPAGNE

You decorate your home with your favorite colors, so why not trim the tree to match? Last year, when my favorite store asked me to decorate a tree for them, I used my home as inspiration. I used navy and metallics, then paired them with blush and champagne accents. It was fun to use non-traditional colors in a traditional way.

RED, WHITE, AND GREEN

How about a tree with vintage touches like “blow molds,” those old-school painted plastic outdoor decorations hung among your ornaments? If vintage is not your style, this could be anything large and eye-catching.

Not into using ribbon for your tree? Display an advent countdown made of mini stockings. Tired of the traditional tree topper? Make a bold statement with a large Santa face or a festive floral spray.

Get all your spaces in on the fun with fresh greenery on kitchen island lights or use them to anchor the sides of a holiday display.

Your home and tree are blank canvases just waiting for your self-expression. Don’t be afraid to shake things up this year.

Share your Christmas colors with us on Instagram or Facebook @courtneywarrenhome, and we will share some of the best-submitted trees and decor throughout the month.

ABOUT THE DESIGNER

Courtney Warren is a Rockwall native interior designer whose award-winning design work has been featured in numerous national magazines and media and whose clients span the North Texas area. She believes “you deserve a beautiful home you can be proud of, and it doesn’t have to be complicated.” She loves decorating for the holidays, and her most embarrassing Halloween costume was when her parents made her dress up as a Magic Skunk. You can find her recent projects on Instagram and Facebook at @courtneywarrenhome or courtneywarren.com.

Gain access to helpful content, local promotions, including giveaways and other fun tidbits

DAZZLING display

CHRISTMAS LIGHT OPTIONS AND WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN AN INSTALLER

BY CHERYL ALEXANDER

Twinkling lights hanging from eaves and trees and winter scenes depicted in front yards are typically the first cue that the Christmas season has arrived. The kids see them as the sign that Santa is on his way, while you realize someone has some work to do. For some, too, a level of rivalry is evoked as neighbors compete to outdo one another with their displays. No matter how you look at it, the outcome — an outdoor salute to the season of hope — brings an enhanced sense of community and elicits miles of smiles.

To join in the fun, even just a little, you’ll need to invest in some of the best outdoor Christmas decorations. These days, you can buy everything from wreaths to full-blown, music-synced lighting displays. In addition to your traditional string of lights usually hung from eaves, newer outdoor trends include infl atable Christmas fi gures, light-up characters, projectors, oversized ornaments, garlands, yard sculptures, music, and more.

But you can’t go wrong with the right roof lights. Here are a few ideas.

C7/C9 Bulbs – These are the classic Christmas lights. Both C7 and C9 bulbs are popular along roof lines due to their large size and overall presence compared to other roof lights when viewed from afar.

Icicle Lights - An elegant display makes icicle lights a beloved option, especially for roof awnings, overhangs, peaks, and windows. Traditional white is the most popular, but they also come in color combinations.

Cascade Light Tubes and Falling Icicles

- The unique dripping icicle effect and subtle motion displayed by these less familiar styles is a dynamic departure from the usual, and they’re great for creating stand-out displays. Plus, they’ll fit standard C9 and C7 sockets.

POPULAR LIGHT COLORS

With Christmas lights available in a full spectrum of colors, there’s no limit to the possibilities if you’ve got a theme in mind. Cozy, classic, and still very popular, clear incandescent lights are iconic, simple, and generally inexpensive. However, they require more electrical planning to handle the additional wattage they use.

White LED Christmas lights can be found in warm white or cool white. If you love the traditional look of incandescent bulbs, you can fi nd LEDs with an opaque fi nish and visible fi lament bulbs that create a cherished classic glow. Additionally, LEDs use up to 90% less energy and last longer than incandescent bulbs, making way for more lights that shine brighter for longer. Consider multicolor outdoor roof displays to maximize Christmas cheer. Multicolored Christmas lights are easy to fi nd in all the most popular roof lighting options, including C7 and C9 bulbs, icicle strings, and even net lights so that you can carry the roof display into your yard.

Hiring an Installer

Don’t go for the cheapest option: Significantly lower costs typically mean lesser quality.

Check out their lights: A professional installer should only be sourcing lights from dedicated, commercial Christmas light suppliers.

Upfront costs: If the upfront fee seems high or is more than half the total cost, take that as a red flag and find another company to perform the job.

Verify they are insured: Due to the risks involved (probably why you’re hiring a professional in the first place), make sure they have commercial and workman’s comp insurance.

Ask for references: Companies that have been in business a while and have references to show the quality of their work are typically the best ones for the job.

Problem Resolution: Problems may arise. What happens if some lights stop working before the end of the holiday? Or, what if you disagree with some of their design ideas? A real professional will have policies in place for resolving issues.

Hire a team: Professional installers will be a team, not a single person, that knows what they’re doing, works quickly, and delivers a quality result.

all about

A P P L E S

MOVE OVER, PUMPKIN, THERE’S A NEW SEASONAL FAVORITE IN TOWN

BY SYDNI ELLIS

Pumpkins are fall's iconic fruit. With their perfect sweetness that blends so well with the season's spices, it can be easy to forget the other delightful flavor to savor — apples!

Hot apple cider, caramel-coated apples, and apple cinnamon treats — it’s all so good. Although you can’t munch on a raw pumpkin, you can enjoy a crunchy apple anytime your heart desires or use them in delicious foods, cocktails, scents, and more.

Homemade Apple Cider

Sure, store-bought is fine, but there’s something extra special about apple cider made from scratch. Delish’s Homemade Apple Cider is made in a stockpot on the stove and smells amazing in your kitchen. This recipe requires 10 large apples, an orange, cinnamon sticks, spices, and brown sugar. Combine with water, simmer for two hours, then mash the apples and simmer for another hour. Remember to save some of the cider to use for cocktail recipes. Delish.com

Apple Cider Mimosa

Enjoy a seasonal version of this brunch favorite by making The Spruce Eats’ Apple Cider Mimosa recipe. This drink combines champagne or sparkling wine with apple cider and pear vodka. For extra flair, garnish the rim with cinnamon sugar and an apple slice, it's like a liquid apple pie. TheSpruceEats.com

Caramel Apple Manhattan

If you have extra prep time or are hosting a fall get-together, make Recipe Girl’s Caramel Apple Manhattan. This cocktail is made with bourbon, apple cider, and Calvados apple brandy, among other things. The kicker is the garnish, which involves dipping apple slices into melted caramel candies and then them slipping on the rim of the cup before serving. RecipeGirl.com

Apple Pie Bars

Apple pie in snack-sized portions? Yes, please! Ina Garten’s Apple Pie Bars recipe takes a little work, but it’s worth it. The crust is made with butter, sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, chopped walnuts, cinnamon, and other ingredients. Scatter the dough in a baking pan, then pre-cook it before adding the apple filling. Use 1½ pounds Granny Smith apples, 1½ pounds Golden Delicious apples, sugar, spices, butter, and more to make the filling. These ingredients are combined over a large pot until the apples are tender, then spread over the crust and top with the remaining dough. It’s like a heavenly mixture of apple crumble and apple pie that’s especially delicious when topped with whipped cream. FoodNetwork.com

Roasted Chicken with Apples and Herbs

Apples aren’t reserved for desserts. Incorporate this delicious, versatile fruit into your savory dishes as well. Southern Living’s roasted chicken recipe requires four to six apples (like Gala, Fuji, or Granny Smith), 12 small shallots, thyme and rosemary sprigs, a whole chicken, and more. The finished roasted dish is delightfully juicy and perfect for the holiday season. SouthernLiving.com

Apple Aromas

There's nothing like the smell of fresh apples, but it isn't practical to bake or simmer apple cider every day. Here are a few of our favorite fragrances so you can channel sweet fall vibes daily.

Relive nostalgic moments of buying your first caramel apple at the Fall Fair with the Fall Festival candle from Noa Lux. Notes of apple, caramel, vanilla, and toffee, will transport you back to those childhood moments.

$40, NoaLuxCo.com

It doesn't get much more fall than the Tumalo Cider candle from Broken Top Candle Co. This scent adds a kick of spice to the classic apple cider we all know and love. Embrace the cozy season with this fruity masterpiece. $26, 9 oz., $15, 4 oz. BrokenTopCandleCo.com

Yankee Candle's Macintosh is a fruity apple scent with top notes of apple peels and crisp greens, mid notes of grapefruit and juicy Macintosh, and base notes of clove bed and sheer musk. $31, YankeeCandle.com

Sweet holiday memories will rise to the surface when the Homesick Grandma's Kitchen candle is lit. It features notes of butter, apple, cream, cinnamon, clove, sugar cookie, and vanilla, which is heavenly. $38, 13.75 oz. Homesick.com

Artiscent's Soul Flame candle transports you in front of a crackling fire while enjoying a warm mug of cranberry apple cider with family and friends. A touch of orange zest and cinnamon bark round off this cozy combination.

$38, Artistscent.com

BY SYDNI ELLIS

The season of giving is upon us, a time to show friends and family (teachers, coworkers, and neighbors) how much we appreciate them.

This year, skip the generic gifts a give ones from the heart. From personalized treasures to one-of-a-kind items, there is something for everyone. Shop one of our picks, or let the list inspire you to think outside the box.

For a special couple: Looking for a heartfelt gift for your in-laws? FamiPrints offers customizable canvases that will display lyrics to a song in the shape of a vinyl, starting at $60. Simply fill out the couple’s name, anniversary, and song title, and the company will do the rest.  FamiPrints.com

For a shining star: Create a custom star map from  StarryMaps , starting at $55, showing the night sky on the day of their birth (or another milestone date). Choose a date and location, and the company will create a custom, museum-quality map of the arrangement of the stars and constellations at that moment in time — like an electric planisphere. You can design the background, add a frame, and write a custom message about why this date and time are important.  StarryMaps.com

For the sentimental type: For your kids’ teachers, grandparents, or anyone else extra sentimental, order a gorgeous piece of  Handwriting Jewelry  from Caitlyn Minimalist on Etsy, starting at $42. They will engrave a special note or drawing onto a necklace with your handwriting, making for an incredibly special gift. Have your kids write something for loved ones or find a scrap of handwriting from someone who’s passed away as a way to keep their memory alive. Then choose your necklace length and if you want a gold, silver, or rose gold finish. Turnaround time is about 6 to 9 business days in non-peak times.  Etsy.com/shop/CaitlynMinimalist

Finishing Touch

For the pet lover: For that coworker who is always showing off pictures of their pet, order the  West & Willow Custom One Pet Portrait  for $67. This cute image is a minimalist design on a simple background hand-illustrated by digital artists. Just upload your favorite pet photo, fill in the name, and choose a frame size, and it’ll be ready to ship in 1 to 2 weeks.  WestAndWillow.com

For the nature enthusiast: Does your college-age niece love plants? Gift a beautiful  Jewel Garden  from Lula’s Garden, which includes three small, fresh succulents in a little rectangular box for $45. This will add a touch of greenery to a windowsill or desk, and it even comes with a tiny dropper to keep it watered! Each garden purchased provides six months of safe water for one person in the developing world through its partnership with water.org.  LulasGarden.com

It doesn’t matter what you give this holiday season. Any present (even the go-to gift card) can be made more meaningful with a personal touch. Follow these tips to make gift recipients feel extra special.

• Use an ornament as a gift tag. Tying a pretty ornament to your present gives it an extra special upgrade, plus it doubles as a second gift!

• Include baked goods. Homemade bread, fresh cookies, and your grandma’s famous pie recipe make perfect additions to any present.

• Write a personal message. A few personal words go a long way.

• Give a book. Nothing says “thoughtful” like a book. Add a new thriller, romance, or fantasy novel to each gift this holiday season. Write a note in the book jacket about why you chose it for that special someone.

• Get artistic. Draw on the wrapping paper, crochet a scarf, or frame a picture you took. Making some thing original is a unique way to show you care.

DICKENS on the strand

TIME TRAVEL TO A VICTORIAN WINTER ON THE GULF COAST

BY CHRISTINA GARCIA

A block from the bay on Galveston Island, Victorian times come alive during the annual Dickens on The Strand festival held this year from December 2nd through the 4th . For three days, top hats and hoop skirts are back in fashion, and visitors toast the lords and ladies in cutaway coats and corsets. Hosted in Galveston’s Historic Strand District — once considered the “Wall Street of the Southwest” — this time capsule of an event spans several blocks from 24th street going east between The Strand and Mechanic Street.

Surrounded by a fascinating mix of elegant and flamboyant Victorian-era architecture in the city, this party helped preserve the 1800s-built beauty of The Strand, shooing off developers who might have mowed over the surrounding antique structures.

Period dress is encouraged, so wear your best “seaside costume” if you wish, but don’t worry if you’re not inclined. Once a strict presentation of historically accurate garb, food, and street wares, the festival atmosphere is a lot

Photos: Visit Galveston

looser today. Entire families might show up in pirate gear, harkening back to the times of pirate Jean Lafi tte. Festival food is a bit more common than roasted chestnuts, at least on the streets, but the Victorian celebration still thrives almost three decades since the fest’s inception in 1974.

Take in the sunshine and promenade with carolers, musicians, and even descendants of Charles Dickens himself in a historically distinguished city paying homage to one of England’s great writers.

AT THE FEST

Fezziwig’s Friday Festival Kick-Off is a free evening jamboree to start the weekend-long festivities, but Saturday and Sunday are stacked with the most attractions. For example, the beard contest called Albert’s Whimsical Whisker Review, held Saturday at 5 PM at the Windsor Castle Stage, awards the best Rip Van Winkle (full beard), Most Impressive Piccadilly Weepers (sideburns), Finest Gatter Soaker (mustache), and more.

When at a Dickens festival, only the mirthless would miss the Victorian costume contest on Saturday at 3:30 PM on the Westminster Abbey Stage, sure to attract the most lace-ruched, ornamented, and jauntily hatted of all in attendance. For my shillings, viewing Pickwick’s Lanternlight Parade illuminating The Strand at 6:30 PM. on Saturday would urge me to attend. This parade and those held at 2 PM on Saturday and Sunday might be the highlight of the sensational daily affairs.

Not to be outshined, Sunday’s Victorian bed races down Mechanic Street seem to blow away the winter blues with silly Christmasthemed beds being rushed down the street with a team taking turns on the mattress. As for Dickens’ descendants, plan to meet Ollie Dickens, the great-great-great-great-grandson of Charles, and other family members who take time to walk the streets greeting guests at all special events and parades.

OUTSIDE THE FEST

Ring in the season with a handbell concert inside 1859 St. Joseph’s Church, a beautiful whitewashed German Catholic church made of wood. The acoustics are exceptional, according to the church itself, and three performances take place on Friday night for those with advance tickets.

The Dickens Soiree, held at the breathtaking 1892 Bishop Palace — built with the intention of being the most elaborate house in Texas at the time — offers a “curated food and drink menu” with live music, acrobats, and other performances Friday evening. Advance tickets are necessary.

Mysterious until the end, or at least about one week before the fete for guests with reserved tickets, Dickens After Dark takes place on Friday and Saturday at a secret location on The Strand. Promising drinks and performances, this might be the way to go for a surprise if that’s your cup of tea. Enjoy breakfast in the first mansion built on Galveston Island by joining The Dickensian Breakfast at 1859 Ashton Villa on Saturday or Sunday. The mansion is otherwise closed to visitors (The Galveston Island Visitors Center is in a rear house), so this breakfast offers a unique chance to view the restored splendor.

Tea with the Captain’s wife on 1877 Tall Ship Elissa is a stop for tea and biscuits on Galveston’s Historic Seaport. You’ll be regaled with historical stories, likely from when Galveston was one of the leading ship ports and boomtowns in the south, and you’ll watch the crew at work.

What’s a Dickens Festival without the author’s most popular work, A Christmas Carol? Enjoy performances on Friday and Saturday at the historic, beautifully detailed 1894 Opera House. If a curated walking tour suits your fancy, St. Arnold’s guided group tour around The Strand includes three complimentary craft beers. Visit GalvestonHistory.org/events/dickenson-the-strand for more information, admission tickets, and tickets to special events.

PIE perfection

SERVE UP SMILES WITH A HOMEMADE SLICE

HONEY PISTACHIO PIE

SERVES:

INGREDIENTS: Crust: 1 refrigerated pie crust for the bottom only OR use a from-scratch recipe you love | 1 Tbsp. flour Filling: 6 Tbsp. unsalted butter, melted | 1 cup sugar | ½ tsp. kosher salt | 1/3 cup honey | 1/3 cup light corn syrup | 1 tsp. freshly grated lemon zest | 1 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice | ¼ tsp. ground cardamom | ¼ tsp. ground cinnamon | 3 large eggs | 1 ¾ cups shelled pistachios, coarsely chopped Topping: 3 sheets of phyllo dough, thawed | 1 ½ Tbsp. unsalted butter, melted | 2 tsp. sugar

DIRECTIONS: PREHEAT oven to 375°. SPRAY a 9-inch pie pan with non-stick cooking spray and sprinkle with 1 Tbsp. of flour. PLACE one of the pie crusts into the pan. Gently press into the bottom and around the sides of the pan. PRICK the bottom of the crust with a fork. Partially bake the crust by baking for 12 to 17 minutes or until the edges and center begin to brown. REMOVE the partially baked crust from the oven and lower the heat to 300°. WHISK together butter, sugar, salt, honey, light corn syrup, lemon zest, lemon juice, cardamom, and cinnamon in a medium microwave-safe bowl. WHISK in 3 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well between each. MICROWAVE the mixture at medium power, checking the temperature and stirring every minute or so until it reaches 130°. FOLD pistachios into filling and pour into prepared crust. PLACE foil around the edges of the crust to prevent burning. Now make the topping. LAY out all three sheets of phyllo dough, brush with butter and sprinkle with sugar. STACK phyllo on top of each other and press to make one thick sheet. USE a small cookie cutter to cut out small shapes of your choice. PLACE evenly on top of the pie filling. TRANSFER the filled pie to the middle rack of a preheated oven. BAKE for 60 minutes or until phyllo dough becomes browned, crisped, puffed, and the filling sets. COOL completely before serving.

TIPS & TRICKS: If you like baklava, you will love this pie. It pairs perfectly with a holiday dinner featuring Mediterranean fare. Recipe by Hummingbirdhigh.com

BY MELISSA TATE | PHOTOS BY KELLY ALEXANDER FROM TEXAS PIE FEST 2022

TIPS & TRICKS: Rhubarb is seasonal, popping up in summer and then again in fall. If you are craving a rhubarb pie out of season, don’t hesitate to use canned rhubarb pie filling. It can scratch the itch until rhubarb season comes back around.

GRANDMA’S

EASY RHUBARB PIE

SERVES: 8 | PREP: 20 MINS. | COOK: 1 HR. | TOTAL: 1 HR. 20 MINS.

INGREDIENTS: 2 eggs | 2 cups sugar | 2 Tbsp. cornstarch | 1 Tbsp. flour | 3 cups rhubarb, chopped into bite-size pieces | 2 refrigerated pie crusts, one for top, one for bottom | 1 Tbsp. flour

DIRECTIONS: PREHEAT oven to 425°. COMBINE the first four ingredients. MIX in the rhubarb until well combined and set aside. SPRAY a 9-inch pie pan with non-stick cooking spray and sprinkle with 1 Tbsp. of flour. PLACE one of the pie crusts into the pan. PRESS into the bottom gently and around the sides of the pan. POUR the rhubarb mixture into the pie crust. PLACE the second pie crust on top. FOLD the upper edges underneath the bottom crust and pinch them together to seal the crust. PLACE several vent cuts into the top crust, evenly spaced. PLACE the pie onto a baking sheet to catch any overflow. BAKE for one hour. COOL slightly before serving. Recipe by Justapinch.com

TIPS & TRICKS: Pecan pie will set differently in different altitudes and temperatures. Have no fear. It will always taste wonderful.

SPICY CAYENNE PECAN

ABOUT OUR CHEF

Melissa is a freelance food writer with a passion for hospitality and home cooked meals. Along with writing, she helps her husband run their working ranch and event venue in Rockwall, Texas. To follow her cooking and ranching adventures visit MelissaTateTX.com or find her on Instagram at @MELISSATATETX

INGREDIENTS: Crust: 1 refrigerated pie crust for the bottom only OR use a from-scratch recipe you love | 1 Tbsp. flour Filling: 5 Tbsp. unsalted butter | 1 cup light brown sugar, packed | ¾ cup light corn syrup | ½ tsp. salt | 2 cups pecans, chopped and toasted | 1 Tbsp. bourbon | 2 tsp. vanilla extract | ¼ cup coffee, cooled | ¼ tsp. cayenne, ground | ½ tsp. cinnamon, ground | 3 eggs, lightly beaten | pinch of sea salt

DIRECTIONS: PREHEAT oven to 375°. SPRAY a 9-inch pie pan with non-stick cooking spray and sprinkle with 1 Tbsp. of flour. PLACE one of the pie crusts into the pan. Gently press into the bottom and around the sides of the pan. PRICK the bottom of the crust with a fork. Partially bake the crust by baking for 12 to 17 minutes or until the edges and center begin to brown. REMOVE the partially baked crust from the oven and lower the heat to 350°. COMBINE the butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt in a saucepan on medium-high heat. BRING to a boil and cook for one minute. REMOVE from the heat and stir in the toasted pecans, bourbon, vanilla, coffee, cayenne, and cinnamon. STIR in eggs and pour into pre-baked pie crust. SPRINKLE top with sea salt. BAKE at 350° for 40 to 45 minutes or until the middle sets. REMOVE from oven, let cool and enjoy!

Recipe by Eastmeetskitchen.com

5001 S. Cooper Street, Suite 111 Arlington-South

Arlington, TX 76017 (817) 557-2253

839 E Lamar BLVD Arlington-North

Arlington, TX 76011 (817) 583-6522

3141 E Broad Street Suite 115 Mansfield

Mansfield, TX 76063 (682) 204-0235

NothingBundtCakes.com

A SMATTERING of stuff

COMFORTING CASHMERE

This ribbed cashmere scarf from J.Crew is one of my favorite winter accessories.

BY HEATHER WITHERSPOON

These personalized Arctic that feature the 2022 holiday season in glitter on the bottom make an effortless gift for every hostess, Secret Santa, and teacher this holiday. Or tie one onto another present for a finishing touch.

BRING ON THE BRINE

I started brining our Thanksgiving turkey about seven years ago, and I never looked back. Give it a shot this year with the Williams Sonoma Autumn Fruit & Spice Blend Turkey Brine with Brining Bags. Add flavor and moisture with the custom blend of coarse sea salt, dried apples, juniper berries, lemon peel, Spanish rosemary, and black tellicherry peppercorns. The set includes the brine and three heavy-duty, leak-proof brining bags.

$39, WILLIAMS-SONOMA.COM

TURN BACK TIME

Nothing can beat treatments from a professional, but if you need something to supplement your skincare routine, the NuDerma Clinical Skin Therapy Wand may be the answer. The six fusion applicators — each for different needs — provide the skin-boosting benefits of neon and the breakout-fighting power of argon in one universal delivery system. They work together to energize and oxygenate skin at the cellular level and help kill any sub-dermal causes of inflammation to control blemishes and help achieve a smoother complexion. Use your preferred serums or creams before or immediately after use to ensure maximum absorption into the deeper layers of your skin.

$150, PUREDAILYCARE.COM, AMAZON.COM, BESTBUY.COM

THAT’S MAKING US SAY “WE LIKE IT!” THIS MONTH