Living Magazine December 2024

TAKE THE PLUNGE

PLAN NOW FOR A POOL IN 2025

KITCHEN OR THE KINGDOM

THE GREAT CHASM BETWEEN MARY & MARTHA

STUNNING STATE

PICTURESQUE PLACES IN TEXAS

CARING FOR PEOPLE IS A FAMILY TRADITION

Welcome Home!

Central Bible Church is a family of people growing in their connection with God and each other while making a difference in their world. This Sunday, discover God -centered worship, relevant Bible teaching, and vibrant community. We invite you to make us home!

9:30 a.m. Worship Service (livestream on YouTube)

Central En Español Worship Service Ministry for Children Birth -Kindergarten

10:45 a.m. Adult, Student, and Children’s Ministry classes

1:00 p.m. ReGenesis Bible Church African Congregation

1 block west of Sam’s Club on I-30 and Eastchase Parkway

Providing world-class care and great patient experiences since day one.

Since opening our doors four years ago, we’ve been dedicated to safeguarding what ma ers most — your health. Equipped with cu ing-edge technology and sta ed by an outstanding team of skilled physicians, nurses, and specialists, we’re here to meet all your healthcare needs.

From routine check-ups to complex surgeries, our commitment to advanced, personalized, and compassionate care remains unwavering. Thank you for trusting us to be your partner in health. When it comes to top-tier care, there’s no place like home.

One of the highest-rated hospitals for patient safety by The Leapfrog Group.

Accelerated Mental Health Therapy Programs For adults and adolescents

publisher’s letter

“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.” – John 1:14

When you think of Christmas past, what comes to mind? Is it a certain gift you were thrilled to receive as a child or the time you spent with a loved one who’s no longer here? Maybe it’s your first Christmas as a married couple or as a parent, a certain food you only eat at Christmastime, or the words to a favorite Christmas hymn.

Christmastime brings so many details and obligations—and for some, emotional baggage—that it can be hard to stay focused on the main message: that God came into the world in the form of man to atone for the sins of humanity. With all the busyness, buying, giving, and getting of the Christmas season, it’s easy for that truth to be drown out. It takes intentionality to remember and cherish that Christ is God’s ultimate gift to all of creation for all time. “To us a son is given...and he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6).

This year, rather than despairing about how far from that truth the secular world has come, maybe we can concentrate on being—in word and deed—the Christmas we want others to see. Rather than just celebrating Christmas this year, let’s BE Christmas to everyone we encounter. When our Christmas season is filled with celebrations of Jesus’ birth, life, love, and sacrifice, others can see and encounter the Jesus whose birth we celebrate.

PUBLISHER

Misty Morgan

EDITOR

Heather Witherspoon production

ART DIRECTOR

Jennifer Kelley

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Joseph Villegas

CLIENT SERVICES MANAGERS

Jenefer Grady

Veronica Garza administration

SENIOR ADMINISTRATOR

Todd Collom

OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR

Teresa May

advertising/marketing/sales

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Kami Anderson

kanderson@livingmagazine.net

SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORM MANAGEMENT

Lindsay Clark

lclark@livingmagazine.net

BRAND MARKETING DIRECTOR

Justin Womack

SOCIAL MEDIA SPECIALIST

Mary Kate Gray

PRINT SUPPORT SPECIALIST

Lisa Austin

Blessed CHRISTmas to you all!

MISTY MORGAN, OWNER/PUBLISHER

Mmorgan@livingmagazine.net (817) 908-2111

O UR M A Y O R S

It’s the Holiday Season in Mansfield!

Start with our Hometown Holidays tree lighting on Fri. Dec. 6th at 5 pm, followed by a drone show at our City Hall (1200 East Broad St).

Join us the next day for the Snowman Run 5K on Sat. Dec. 7th. It’s always a fun way to ring in the holiday season. We’ll see you at the free “Holiday at the (Man) House” event on Dec. 9th from 11a to 3p with present crafting, making Christmas ornaments and more.

We’re offering three classes for different age groups at “Deer Day” happening at Oliver Nature Park from Dec. 12-14. Learn all about deer and how to examine their tracks.

Trout fishing classes happen at Oliver Nature Park at 11:30a on Sun. Dec. 8th a nd Sat. Dec. 14th, with

Enjoy a season of lights, laughter and celebration. Don’t miss Prairie Lights at Lynn Creek Park, open now through Dec. 31. This year, the event dazzles with a reimagined walk-through forest, animated light displays, carnival rides, shopping, photos with Santa, and so much more. For details, visit PrairieLights.org.

For a little winter magic, glide on over to the free downtown ice rink in front of City Hall, open until Dec. 28. For hours and more information, visit gptx.org.

Cooler weather is perfect for exploring our city’s new outdoor fitness courts. Find them at EpicCentral, Fish Creek Linear Park, and four other spots around Grand Prairie, and get your workout in the fresh air.

equipment and bait supplied! It’s sure to be fun.

The Jane Austen Tea Party returns to the Man House on Saturday afternoon, Dec. 14th with crafts, tea and riveting book discussion. Register at bit.ly/janeausten24

How about Family Pickleball Days? Go to the Mansfield Activities Center (MAC) on Wed. morning, Dec. 18th.

For Seniors, meet at the MAC on Mon. afternoon, Dec. 16th for a holiday light tour in Mansfield with a stop at Texas Roadhouse.

Lastly, we are offering the free Holiday Grease Roundup 24 hours a day, all December long, at the Environmental Collection Center at 616 S. Wisteria.

See you around town!

Mark your calendar for MLK Day on Jan. 20, where we’ll gather to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a parade celebrating his legacy, local community leaders, and the talents of Grand Prairie ISD students.

And a quick reminder: holiday garbage and recycling collection shifts to the next day during holiday weeks. Check the updated schedule at gptx.org/garbage to stay on track.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, Grand Prairie!

Don’t you love doing business with a company that treats their employees well? When you enter your neighborhood grocery store and see employees laughing and joking together or you visit your dentist and observe how they respect their staff and their staff respects them, there’s a satisfaction in knowing your dollars are going to support employers who support their employees not just financially but emotionally.

Texas Health Resources was recently honored for doing just that. Top Workplaces DFW 2024 ranked Texas Health number 18 among 40 large companies they recognized for promoting positive work environments in DFW. In fact, this is the 12th time the Arlington based company has earned that recognition and, earlier this year, they also

placed number one on the 2024 Fortune Best Workplaces in Health Care list. Keep up the great work, THR! You help make the American Dream City the special place it is.

And I’d be remiss if I didn’t offer a great big “congratulations” to Arlington’s own Patrick and Fasicka Hicks whose restaurant Smoke’N Ash BBQ recently made it onto the first-ever Michelin Guide Texas. Their unique Texas-Ethiopian fusion food earned them a spot as one of 57 restaurants across the Lone Star State selected as "recommended" by Michelin. Congratulations on a job well done, Patrick and Fasicka! (If you visit Smoke’N Ash, be sure to try the lamb tips. Trust me.)

december 14

COOKIES WITH THE CLAUSES

Arlington Parks and Recreation

All are welcome to come eat cookies, play festive games and make some holiday crafts with Mr. and Mrs. Claus! Bring your camera for pictures with the Claus family. 10am-12pm. East Library and Rec Center, 1817 New York Ave. Visit our website to register. NATURALLYFUN.ORG

NOW - DECEMBER 31

PRAIRIE LIGHTS

Grand Prairie

Experience the premier holiday light park in Texas. Prairie Lights will feature an all new state-of-the-art light tunnel, a reimagined magical walk-thru forest, captivating animated light displays, carnival rides, photos with Santa, holiday shopping and more. Open every night. 6pm. Lynn Creek Park on Joe Pool Lake. 5610 Lake Ridge Pkwy. Visit our website for additional information.

PRAIRIELIGHTS.ORG

DECEMBER 1

WINTER WONDERLAND CRAFT FAIR

Arlington Parks and Recreation

Join us for a festive celebration of local artisans and handcrafted treasures. Find unique gifts, festive decorations and delicious treats in a cozy, winter wonderland atmosphere. Find something for everyone on your list. 9am-3pm. Elzie Odom Athletic Center, 1601 NE Green Oaks Blvd. Visit our website to register. NATURALLYFUN.ORG

DECEMBER 6

HOMETOWN HOLIDAYS

Mansfield

Join us for a month of holiday celebrations kicking off with a huge Hometown Holidays Tree Lighting & Drone Show. 5pm-9pm. Mansfield City Hall. 1200 E. Broad St.

DECEMBER 7

CHRISTMAS ON THE PRAIRIE

Grand Prairie

Get your Christmas shopping done on Main Street as we celebrate Christmas on the Prairie for year 2 with food, drinks and Christmas fun! Enjoy shopping on Main St., the city ice skating rink, food vendors and more.9am-1pm. 120 W. Main St.

DECEMBER 7 AND 28

MOBILE PET ADOPTION EVENT AT PETSMART HIGHLANDS

Arlington

Join us for a tail-wagging, familyfriendly, pet-saving community event! Adorable adoptable pets looking for new homes will be available at the

mobile adoption unit for immediate adoption! 10am-2pm.Scheduled events are subject to cancelation without notice due to unfavorable weather conditions (heat, cold, storms, etc.) for the safety and protection of adoptable pets, volunteers, and staff. 203 E. I 20.

DECEMBER 13

SWIFTIE SWIM

Arlington Parks and Recreation

Get ready for a sparkling evening at the Swiftie Swim Pool Party! A night filled with vibrant lights, Taylor Swift hits and lots of fun. Enjoy a dazzling atmosphere with the best of Taylor Swift’s music playing throughout the event. Make your own sparkling friendship bracelets at our craft station. 5pm-7pm. East Library and Rec Center, 1817 New York Ave. Visit our website to register.

NATURALLYFUN.ORG

DECEMBER 14

THE FALALALA 5K Mansfield

This is an annual fun/walk hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Mansfield. This is a chip-timed event. 8:30am-10:30am. Awards will be issued to several categories. RunUnited, 650 US 287 Frontage Rd. To register visit our site.

KIWANIS-CLUB-OF-MANSFIELDFOUNDATION.SQUARE.SITE/

DECEMBER 23

SENIOR MOVIE MONDAY (50+ YRS.)

Arlington Parks and Recreation

Come and enjoy a movie - we are featuring “Christmas with the Kranks”. Join us for popcorn and a movie every third Monday of the month. East Library and Rec Center, 1817 New York Ave. Visit our website to register.

NATURALLYFUN.ORG see more events in your area on LIVINGMAGAZINE.NET

TINSEL-FILLED TV

WONDER-FILLED WORDS

The Great British Baking Show: Holidays on Netfl ix brings festive cheer with returning bakers competing in holiday-themed challenges. From intricate gingerbread creations to show-stopping Yule logs, the episodes brim with creativity and camaraderie. Special guests, including fan-favorite bakers and celebrity contestants, add humor and heart to this delightful seasonal series.

SEASON 7 DROPS DECEMBER 9 | NETFLIX

IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE

Follow George Bailey as he discovers the profound impact of his selfless actions on those around him. Guided by his guardian angel, Clarence, George gains a new appreciation for life. This heartwarming tale of community, love, and redemption remains a timeless holiday tradition year after year.

DECEMBER 24 AT 8 PM ET | ABC

LETTERS FROM FATHER CHRISTMAS, CENTENARY EDITION

BY

J.R.R. TOLKIEN

For fans of J.R.R. Tolkien, Letters from Father Christmas is a gorgeous, full-color, festive gift featuring a wealth of letters and illustrations that Tolkien created for his children. This handsome edition also includes an introduction from daughterin-law Baillie Tolkien, reflecting on the centenary anniversary of the letters, as well as a personal note by Tolkien himself.

ELLA FITZGERALD

ELLA WISHES YOU A SWINGING CHRISTMAS

LITTLE BIG TOWN THE CHRISTMAS RECORD

BRETT ELDREDGE MR. CHRISTMAS

Imagery from The Great British Baking Show: Holidays , Mark Bourdillon/Netflix. Movie poster image from It’s a Wonderful Life (1946), RKO Radio Pictures Inc./Paramount Pictures. Book cover from Letters from Father Christmas , by J.R.R. Tolkien, William Morrow, with description excerpt from the publisher. All images are presented for non-commercial illustrative purposes.

SOUNDS OF THE SEASON

THE GREAT BRITISH BAKING SHOW: HOLIDAYS

Now, as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.” – Luke 10:38–42

Kitchen or the Kingdom

THE GREAT CHASM BETWEEN MARY AND MARTHA

BY MIKE MAZYCK

I’m curious, what do you think the tone of Jesus’ voice was when He answered Martha that day? What expression do you see on His face? Was this a soft and gentle admonishment from a loving Savior: a bit of a slap on the wrist? Or did His tone of voice reflect a great seriousness? Was Martha’s error a minor deviation? Or could she have been in great danger? How do you read it?

We live in a time where it has become quite acceptable for professing believers to be just like Martha: anxious and troubled about many things! A life, and a calendar, fi lled with distraction, busyness, and hurry has now become an acceptable Christian life. We tell ourselves, “Jesus understands, it’s just the world we live in.”

But what if we are wrong? What if a life of distraction, and a heart that is anxious and troubled about many things, is not acceptable. What if this story was included in the pages of Scripture because the folly of Martha

Image: Abbaye-aux-Dames, Caen. Painting depicting Martha and Mary by Rethou (18th century). France.

was extremely significant? What if Jesus was very serious when He rebuked her, in the living room of her own home, with a house full of guests looking on?

I believe the answer to these questions can be found in two words: “Martha, Martha.”

We must understand that in Jesus’ day the repetition of a word had great meaning. It meant that what was being said carried great signifi cance. It was weighty. Possibly even — urgent!

The great Charles Spurgeon had this to say: “Jesus calling her name twice shows His tenderness and seriousne ss, urging her to prioritize the right thing — His presence.”

Renowned theologian John Calvin says it this way: “The repetition of her name is both a loving and [a] solemn call for her to reassess her priorities …”

The great commentator Matthew Henry said that by Him calling her name twice “He speaks as one in earnest, and deeply concerned for her welfare. Those that are entangled in the cares of this life are not easily disentangled. To them we must call again and again.”

I think we live in a time when most professing believers have no trouble hearing Spurgeon use the word “tenderness,” but we do not understand why He used the word “seriousness.” We can easily receive Calvin’s word “loving,” but we dismiss that word “solemn.” We live in a time when we cannot fathom why Matthew Henry thought Jesus would be “deeply concerned for her welfare.”

Yet these words represent exactly how Jesus guards and protects His children, how He preserves the saints until the end; He pulls them like a magnet from the front, with kindness, grace, and tenderness, while simultaneously pushing and prodding them from the back with eternal warnings.

My friend, please hear me when I say this: The words of Jesus to Martha on that day were full of love and grace and tenderness. But do not be deceived; they were also solemn and serious. He was issuing a warning to her. He was, in fact, deeply concerned for her welfare. The warnings of Scripture couldn’t be clearer: To be distracted in this life is a very serious matter. To have a heart

“BLESSEDARE THOSEWHO HUNGERAND THIRSTFOR RIGHTEOUSNESS, FORTHEYSHALL BESATISFIED.”

– MATTHEW 5:6

that is anxious and troubled about many things is a very serious matter.

Martha was a commendable woman. She was a woman of hospitality (which is a sign of Godliness). She was a wellintentioned woman with a heart to serve. Martha had gotten things almost right!

But here is the problem: Sometimes in life, almost right … is entirely wrong. And I think this is the case with Martha. She was so close, yet at the same time she had missed the point completely. Why do I claim she had gotten things so wrong?

Because I think the choices of Mary and Martha on that day represented a great distinction in the hearts of these two women: Mary was a woman who possessed what the saints of old called “poverty of spirit.” She was a woman desperate for His presence. She hungered and thirsted for His word. She could not fathom the thought of letting a meal from the kitchen keep her from a feast in the living room. She was truly … UNDISTRACTED!

As I ponder this story, I can’t help but wonder, had Mary also been sitting at the Rabbi’s feet when He said those words … “Blessed are the poor [poverty] in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”

(Matthew 5:3)

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfi ed.” (Matthew 5:6)

The Kingdom of Heaven is reserved for those who hunger and thirst! For the Marys of this world — the desperate ones. The undistracted ones!

Listen to the prayer of Moses at Sinai: “If your presence will not go with me, do not bring us up from here” (Exodus 33:15). John Calvin describes the heart

of Moses in this way: “He signifi es that it would be better and more desirable for him to perish in the desert than to go any further without the manifest token of God’s presence.”

Or consider these other words from Jesus: “From the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven has suffered violence, and the violent take it by force” (Matthew 10:12).

In speaking of this verse, Matthew Henry says: “They who would enter into the kingdom of heaven must strive to enter; that kingdom suffers a holy violence … The violent take it by force … They who will have an interest in the great salvation are carried out towards it with a strong desire, will have it upon any terms.”

My friend, have you come to the place, like Moses, where you would rather perish in the desert than go any further without His presence in your life? Have you come to the mountain of desperation? Are you ready to cast aside all distractions in your life so that you may beat down that Kingdom door with a Holy violence? Are you so hungry that you must be sitting at His feet, no matter the cost— upon any terms? If the answer is yes, be encouraged, my friend; He has cleared a spot on the floor next to Mary; the Kingdom of Heaven is near to you.

But for those who answer no—the Marthas of this world, the distracted ones, the ones whose hearts are anxious and troubled about many things—please hear me today: You are in danger! I say those words as any loving brother would, with grace and tenderness, yet also with deep concern for your welfare. You must know this: The casting aside of the distractions of this age is an evidence that one has, in fact, squeezed through that narrow gate and entered this great Kingdom we speak of. I beg you to heed that great warning on the pages of Scripture (Matthew 7:21–23) and remember that many will call Him “Lord” on that day, just as Martha did. Many will tell Him of the things they did in His service, just as Martha was doing that day. And Many will hear those dreadful words “… away from Me, I never knew you.” Mary was a woman He knew. Martha was distracted. There is a great chasm that exists between the kitchen and the living room.

To comment and read more articles, visit MikeMazyck.com

CARING BEGINS AT HOME

DARIEN BRADFORD, MD AND KRISTIN BRADFORD, RN

Leading Cardiothoracic Surgeon Dr. Darien Bradford and his wife, Registered Nurse Kristin Bradford, are all about caring for people. He through life-saving cardiothoracic care and she through aesthetic treatments such as Botox, fillers, and skincare. They’ve even found a way to marry their two interests at her Kristin Ellyn Aesthetics where he serves as medical director.

This year has brought a lot of exciting changes for the Bradfords as Darien has left his longtime affi liation with Methodist Mansfield and is now caring for patients at Huguley Texas Health Hospital, and Kristin pushes forward in her career working toward her nurse practitioner’s degree. Although the husband-and-wife duo are offering different types of care to our community, they’re each endearing themselves to their patients and making lifelong connections inside and outside of their careers.

While busy careers keep them both on the run, they cherish any time they can steal away from work to just be together and spend time with their five children. “We have a no-shop-talk policy at home,” Kristin said. “Our time together is about us and family and friends and we try not to talk about work. I was privileged to work alongside Darien as an ICU nurse and I know he is the rarest of persons—someone who’s truly serving his God-given purpose. It’s not unusual, when we’re dining out, for

PHOTOS BY LANDON DAY

someone to approach our table to tell us how Darien saved their loved one’s life. I couldn’t be prouder of my husband and the work he does. His bedside manner is something I rarely saw with any physician. But at home, he’s just Darien and I couldn’t ask for a more supportive life partner and friend.”

And Doc is pretty proud of her, as well. “Kristin has a heart for serving people,” he said. “I watched her do that as an ICU nurse. That job isn’t for the weak. It’s intense and can be exhausting, but Kristin did it with all her heart. Now, she’s found another way to give of herself to others.”

After 25 fulfilling years as a nurse, Kristin still wanted to make a difference in people’s lives. She actually began administering injectables part time in 2010. Word spread and as client after client referred her to their family and friends and returned to her again and again, she soon found she had enough clients to offer aesthetics fulltime. And Kristin Ellyn Aesthetics was born!

“I left the ICU with mixed feelings,” Kristin said. “I loved the high-energy nature of that care and going home each night knowing I’d truly made a difference in someone’s life. But by offering my clients a true boutique cosmetic experience focused on personalized service and natural-looking results, I can still make a difference for others, just in a different way. My goal is for clients to leave their time with me feeling better—physically, mentally, and spiritually—than when they arrived.” Her location within Town Garden Salon on South Bowen Road

provides the perfect pampering space where Kristin can customize care for each client’s needs and beauty goals and allows enough time between patients that no one ever feels rushed or like a number. And having Darien on board as medical director gives her the ability to continue to expand her offerings.

Meanwhile, board-certified by the American Board of Thoracic Surgery, Dr. Bradford has changed countless lives. A true leader in his field, he’s spent 25 years pioneering minimally invasive thoracic surgery techniques and technology such as video and robotic-assisted surgery of the chest, heart, lungs, esophagus, diaphragm, and trachea. He brings all of that plus his trademark gentle bedside manner to Huguley Texas Health Hospital.

For almost three decades, Dr. Bradford has helped develop less invasive surgical procedures offering hundreds of patients more surgical precision, shorter recovery time, less risk of infection, negligible scarring, reduced hospital stays, less blood loss, less pain, fewer complications, and far greater success. Because each patient is unique, Dr. Bradford works closely with each individual and their physicians to tailor a treatment program designed specifically for them.

As Dr. Bradford continues to lead the way with life-saving techniques, such as minimally invasive surgery for coronary artery disease, cancers of the lung, esophagus and chest wall, abnormalities of the great vessels and heart valves, as well as birth defects of the chest and heart, he’s now seeing patients at Huguley Texas Health Hospital.

“I’m excited about making the move to Huguley,” he said. “I love their wholeperson approach to care designed to help patients take their heart health into their own hands. It’s not just about healing what’s wrong but about celebrating what’s right and helping patients create a life of better health, more joy, and less stress. Huguley Texas Health Hospital has been providing that type of whole-person care for more than 40 years and I’m thrilled to be part of that model.”

Find out more about Dr. Bradford at Texashealthhuguley.org and about all of Kristin’s aesthetic offerings at KristinEllynAesthetics.com. Kristin currently works by appointment only.

Kristin Bradford, RN

4130 S Bowen, Suite 101, Room 10 Arlington, Texas 76016 (817) 689-2253

KristinEllynAesthetics.com

Kristin@ KristinEllynAesthetics.com

Darien W. Bradford, MD

Texas Health Huguley Hospital 11801 South Freeway Suite 310 Burleson, Texas 76028 (817) 293-5547

TexasHealthHuguley.org

LIGHT UP THE NIGHT!

Prairie Lights is the premier holiday light park in Texas located at Lynn Creek Park on Joe Pool Lake. Upon arriving at the entrance of Prairie Lights, you will be dazzled with 4 million lights set along 2 miles of path. Hundreds of ALL-NEW displays in shapes of all kinds line and arch over the roads. At the halfway point, exit your vehicle to enjoy: FREE carnival rides, concessions, photos with Santa, a redesigned magical walk-thru forest, and the return of holiday shopping! The second half of the drive ends with the ALL NEW, one-of-a-kind LED light tunnel – the perfect fi nale to a night you will never forget!

Tickets: PrairieLights.org

BRANDED FOR CHRIST

Operation Care International’s Annual Fund-raising Gala

This year’s gala, “Branded For Christ,” hosted by Scott Murray at Gilley’s Dallas, kicked off with a pre-show room full of activities, including photo ops with the mechanical bull used by John Travolta in Urban Cowboy, a live horse, and a 360 Photo Experience. Kids-Helping-Kids lemonade stand raised funds. Live music was provided at the preshow by Cherilyn Johnston, Jayne Carter, and Curtis Grimes during a BBQ dinner in the main hall. The 18 fl ags and national costumes of our partners were presented in the parade of nations.

Special awards were presented to Shelley Taylor (Heart of Jesus Award) and Paul and Dr. Victoria Sarvadi (Light of the World Award).

Everyone enjoyed a great time of fellowship while learning about Operation Care International’s God-givenmission and vision, including the Annual Christmas Gift Celebration, the 7 Callings of God - explained in a takehome booklet, Christmas in July International - Cuba, Love Your Neighbor Campaign, and success stories of four previous homeless neighbors.

OPERATION CARE INTERNATIONAL’S CHRISTMAS GIFT

Born of a widow’s grief, Operation Care International (OCI) is a nonprofit Christian ministry dedicated to caring for “the lost, the least, and the lonely in Jesus’ name” worldwide. This year, 2024, OCI marks the 21st year of hosting the nation’s largest birthday party for Jesus,

honoring the homeless and impoverished men, women, and children of the Dallas Metroplex. Since Nov. 1993, when founder Susie Jennings and a group of volunteers distributed 100 new blankets to the homeless living under the Canton Street overpass in downtown Dallas. OCI has been faithful in carrying the message of love and hope to those in need through the power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Each December, Operation Care International holds the nation’s largest Christmas party for the homeless and impoverished at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center. Thousands form lines early on a cold morning for this special event. OCI utilizes more than 3,000 humble and caring volunteers in partnership with charitable organizations, church groups, sponsors [corporate, small businesses, and individuals], and donors to give a Christmas gift to the needy. Food, clothing, shoes, and services are distributed to thousands of impoverished men, women, and children in a festive and safe environment.

Planning begins months before the event to coordinate logistics and gather materials. Thousands of hours are required to create a special day for the homeless and needy families.

Operation Care International Christmas Gift 2024

When: Saturday, December 21 | 8:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Where: Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center, 650 South Griffin Street, Dallas, TX 75202

Homeless and veterans in need receive blankets and sleeping bags, personal care products, and family reunification opportunities with free Operation Phone Home.

Impoverished children and their families receive medical and dental assessments and family gifts and can enjoy a huge indoor amusement area and Toyland.

All guests receive Evangelism, prayer & counseling, Bibles & gospel tracts, foot washing, a new pair of shoes and socks, a hot meal, haircuts, new coats, and medical assessments.

Please consider helping OCI to serve the homeless, veterans in need, and impoverished children and their families. For more information about OCI’s mission, how to get involved, and how to donate, visit OperationCareInternational.org.

PET CLUB

To

Winnie

Moochie

Gizelle

Maggie & Dewey

Junie B

Gretchen

Casper

Boo Boo

YOUR HEALTHY CONCEPT

A

Proactive and Integrative Approach to Being Healthy and Happy

BY MEREDITH KNIGHT PHOTO BY LAUREN MARIE MEDEAN

For generations past, a healthcare professional was someone you saw when you were sick hoping they’d make you well again. We’re fortunate to live at a time where visionaries like Cami Grasher partner with individuals to not just cure their illness but empower them to stay healthy to begin with. As she put it, “Unlike conventional medicine, which focuses on reactive care, treating the symptoms of an illness or condition after it develops, I specialize in preventative care, empowering and aiding clients with lifestyle changes, and exploring natural, effective ways to treat the root cause of any ailments they may be facing, or are at risk of facing, in the future.”

Cami felt so strongly about this pro-active wellness model that she put in the time and mental muscle to become a board-certified nutritional consultant, board-certified natural health professional, board-certified holistic health practitioner, DUTCH testing interpreter, certified

functional hormone specialist, certified genetics interpreter, certified traditional naturopath, and certified Pilates instructor.

Speaking of generations past, it was actually Cami’s grandfather—a man ahead of his time—who initially inspired her toward this preventative care model. “As I was growing up, he was already an active part of the growing movement toward natural, holistic methods of healthcare. So, I was fortunate enough to be exposed to that line of thinking early on.”

Cami operates her practice, Your Healthy Concepts, under the teach-a-man-to-fish principle. “Ultimately, my goal is to use my knowledge, experience, and expertise to empower individuals to take their health and wellness into their own hands, to give them the tools they need to make sustainable changes.” That can include basic education such as how to make healthy choices in the grocery store.

Because each client she sees is unique with their own health challenges, life circumstances, and wellness goals, Cami begins with a consultation where she asks probing questions and truly listens to the answers. Recently, she responded to a frequent client request for healthy, sustainably sourced skincare and body care products with Botanical Radiance, a skin care line featuring Touch of Tallow, which is 100% organic, grass-fed beef tallow. “This superstar ingredient promotes cell repair, skin hydration, and contains healing properties,” Cami said. Popular products in the Botanical Radiance line include lip balm, whipped body balm, and sugar scrub.

Cami is an active member of the community paying it forward wherever she can including serving on the board of directors at the Arlington Museum of Art, serving as a chapter advisor for Tri Delta Sorority at UT Arlington, presenting at community events such as the annual Community Care Fair at the East Arlington Library and Rec Center and speaking to students at NorthStar School. She’s served her community for the past eight years as owner/operator of The Pilates Effect, Arlington’s first and only privately-owned Pilates studio. When she’s not on the job, Cami enjoys staying fit and active, spending time with loved ones, traveling, and reading.

2410 West Abram, Suite 110 Arlington, Texas 76013

(Located next to The Pilates Effect) (214) 558-0996 | YourHealthyConcepts.com

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If you suspect you or a loved one may be experiencing SAD, please seek professional help from a mental health care provider to explore the best treatment options available. With the proper support and treatment, it’s possible to navigate through SAD with hope and resilience.

THE “winter blues”

SHEDDING LIGHT ON SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER (SAD)

BY ANNETTE BROOKS

As the days grow shorter and the chill of winter sets in, it’s not uncommon to fi nd yourself feeling sluggish and downcast occasionally. Yet, for some, it isn’t just a fl eeting case of the “winter blues.” Instead, it may be Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

WHAT IS SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER?

SAD is a form of depression that follows a pattern, typically emerging in the late fall and winter and subsiding in the spring and summer. It’s believed to be triggered by reduced levels

of sunlight. A subtype of major depressive disorder, SAD can significantly impair daily functioning.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

According to HopkinsMedicine.org, SAD symptoms tend to come back and then improve at about the same times every year. These symptoms are consistent and can disrupt a person’s ability to work, socialize, and enjoy life. They include, but are not limited to:

Persistent low mood: Feeling sad or down most of the time.

Loss of interest: A lack of pleasure in activities once enjoyed.

Fatigue: Persistent tiredness and low energy, even with adequate sleep.

Sleep disturbances: Oversleeping (hypersomnia) or difficulty waking up in the morning and daytime drowsiness or fatigue.

Appetite changes: Craving carbohydrates and gaining weight.

Difficulty concentrating: Trouble focusing, thinking clearly, or making decisions.

Social withdrawal: Avoiding social interactions and activities.

CAUSES AND RISK FACTORS

While the exact cause of SAD is not fully understood, several factors are thought to contribute to the condition. It’s believed that a reduced level of sunlight in fall and winter can disrupt your body’s internal biological clock (circadian rhythm) and lead to feelings of depression. Additionally, reduced sunlight can cause a drop in serotonin, a brain chemical (neurotransmitter) that affects mood, which may trigger depression. It can also disrupt the body’s melatonin level, which plays a role in sleep patterns and mood.

Other factors increase the risk, including being female, living where there is less sunlight during winter months, having a family history of SAD or other forms of depression, and already having clinical depression or bipolar disorder.

MANAGING SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER

Although SAD can be challenging, several treatments and strategies can help manage its symptoms. They include:

Light therapy, also known as phototherapy, involves sitting near a special light box that mimics natural sunlight for about 20 to 30 minutes daily. It’s one of the fi rst-line treatments for SAD and may help significantly reduce symptoms.

Medication such as antidepressants, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), may be effective in treating SAD. A healthcare provider can determine if this is an appropriate treatment.

Psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), has been shown to help individuals manage SAD by changing negative thought patterns and behaviors.

Lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, can help improve mood and energy levels. Spending time outdoors and maximizing exposure to natural light during the day is also beneficial.

Additionally, some studies suggest that vitamin D supplementation can help alleviate symptoms of SAD, as low levels of this vitamin are common in people with the disorder.

Three Common Myths About SAD

Understanding the realities of Seasonal Affective Disorder is crucial for those affected and their loved ones. Dispelling myths like those below can lead to more effective treatment, greater empathy, and improved support for individuals dealing with this challenging condition.

Myth 1: SAD Only Occurs in Winter

Although SAD is most commonly associated with the winter months, a less common form, summer-onset SAD or “reverse SAD,” occurs in the spring and summer. Individuals with summer-onset SAD may experience symptoms such as insomnia, reduced appetite, weight loss, and anxiety. The key characteristic of SAD is its seasonal pattern, not the specific time of year it occurs.

Myth 2: Only Women Get SAD

While SAD affects women at a rate four times higher than men, anyone can suffer from it, regardless of gender. Men’s symptoms can be just as severe. It’s important for everyone to seek help if they notice signs of seasonal depression.

Myth 3: You Can Just “Snap Out of It”

SAD is a medical condition, not a matter of willpower or attitude. Telling someone with SAD to “snap out of it” is not only unhelpful but can also be harmful. Like other forms of depression, SAD requires proper treatment and support. Encouraging someone to seek professional help is far more beneficial.

FLEX appeal

THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF STRETCHING

BY PETER ALFANO

Do you ever get out of bed in the morning, instinctively raise your arms above your head, and groggily reach as if trying to touch the ceiling? Good for you. That is an effective way to “wake up” your muscles and shake off the cobwebs of sleep. Yet maintaining fl exibility throughout your life requires more than just stretching first thing in the morning. Ideally, it should become a regular part of your lifestyle.

Many people are under the impression that seniors are the primary target audience for stretching exercises to improve flexibility. It is true that improving fl exibility can help older people maintain better balance and avoid life-changing falls that often result in fractures, leading to hip and knee replacement or worse. However, the time to start improving flexibility begins well before you are eligible to become an AARP member.

According to the Harvard Medical School, stretching not only wakes your body by increasing blood flow and oxygen to your muscles but also prepares your nervous system for a new day. Stretching can relieve body aches and pains after sleeping in an awkward position or tossing and turning through the night.

A regimen of stretching just three times a week helps improve flexibility, which, in turn, can prevent injuries, muscle strains, and, most notably, back pain. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) says that 39% of

adults in the U.S. have back pain at any given time. Hartford HealthCare estimates that 80% of Americans will experience back pain at some point in their life.

Stretching helps lower the risk of sprains, strains, and muscle pulls, which can be debilitating for everyone, not just the elderly or professional athletes. It improves posture, which helps your lower spine. It provides more overall strength and range of motion and improves your breathing. A study in 2020 also found that regular stretching may have cardiovascular benefits and that stretching fi ve times a week for 30 minutes a session can lower blood pressure.

Okay, we know what you are going to say. Who has time for 30 minutes of stretching fi ve days a week? And yes, that would be the optimum amount of stretching, and it is not as if any of us is training for the next Olympics. But even 10 or 15 minutes of stretching two or three times a week can increase your fl exibility and benefi t your mind and body. You can stretch at home, at your desk in an offi ce environment, at the gym before you begin lifting weights, or before you hit the road for a daily walk or run.

A good way to assess where you are on the flexibility scale is by bending over and touching your toes. If you can achieve that benchmark, then you have a head start. If you can’t, then begin slowly because you don’t want to suffer an injury trying to do something intended to prevent injury. And here is a bonus — stretching doesn’t have to cost money, for example, purchasing expensive equipment or paying for a gym membership.

A variety of stretching exercises can be found online. Yes, you can buy resistance bands, yoga sticks, exercise floor mats, and books targeting specific demographics such as women, people over 65, and so on, but none of that is absolutely necessary. Just keep in mind that maintaining fl exibility now can pay dividends for your entire life.

Flexing with Friends

Some people are more motivated if they exercise with others. That can add a social dimension to working out. If you enjoy group workouts, take yoga, tai chi, qigong, or Pilates classes. All incorporate stretching to improve flexibility.

Yoga, which originated in India, combines breathing exercises, stretching, and meditation. Tai chi, a Chinese martial art, also combines mind and body movement. Qigong, a holistic practice rooted in Chinese medicine and martial arts, combines coordinated body movements, breathing techniques, and meditation. Chair yoga and chair tai chi aren’t as demanding but still enable beginners and older people to participate and enjoy the benefits. Pilates is a more intense exercise that focuses on building strength, endurance, and flexibility.

Taking an in-person class in any of these disciplines will cost from $10 (tai chi) to $25 (yoga) and as much as $40 a class for Pilates. Purchasing a class bundle often includes discounts, and sometimes seniors can take these classes for free at a local recreation

BRAIN building

HOW TO KEEP YOUR MIND YOUNG

BY MIMI GREENWOOD KNIGHT

I ran into my elementary school bus driver the other day. She seemed ancient when I was a kid. Yet, as we chatted, she asked after each of my siblings by name. Y’all, I’m one of 12 kids. This sweet lady remembered each one of us and an estimate of how old we’d be now. What should I be doing now to have a brain like that at her age?

STAY MENTALLY STIMULATED

When was the last time you took up a new hobby or delved into a new area of study? Research shows that brainy activities stimulate new connections between nerve cells and may even help the brain generate new cells. This neuroplasticity is a result of mental stimulation. So, work on word puzzles. Assemble jigsaws. Tackle math problems. Draw and paint. Garden. Learn to knit. Teach yourself to juggle. These and other activities are fun ways to wake up new areas of your brain.

EXERCISE

Using your muscles helps your mind. It’s believed that exercise does this by increasing the number of tiny blood vessels that bring oxygen-rich blood to the region of the brain responsible for thought. Additionally, exercise spurs the development of new nerve cells and increases the connections between brain synapses, resulting in brains that are more efficient and adaptive. Exercise also lowers blood pressure, improves cholesterol levels, helps balance blood sugar, and reduces mental stress, all things that can help your brain — and your heart.

EAT RIGHT

Eating high-quality foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants nourishes the brain and protects it from

oxidative stress (free radicals). A diet high in vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, seafood, and lean protein and low in processed foods and refi ned sugars is believed to ward off mental decline, dementia, and even depression.

MAINTAIN HEALTHY BLOOD PRESSURE, BLOOD SUGAR, AND CHOLESTEROL

Eating this brain-healthy diet will also help maintain healthy blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels, which in turn decreases your chance of decline. Commit to staying lean, exercising regularly, getting adequate sleep, limiting alcohol consumption, reducing stress, and eating right in middle age to head off dementia and Alzheimer’s in old age.

SAY “NO” TO TOBACCO

In case you needed one more reason not to smoke, here it is. Tobacco, in all its forms, has been linked to mental decline. If you smoke, stop. If you don’t, don’t start.

LIMIT ALCOHOL

Chronic alcohol consumption has been shown to have a profound impact on the brain’s complex structures and to increase the risk factors for dementia. If you drink, limit yourself to one to two drinks per day.

MAINTAIN SOCIAL TIES

Research increasingly shows that strong social ties are crucial for brain health. Socializing can stimulate attention and memory and help to strengthen neural networks. If you don’t currently have much of a social life, consider starting a bunko or bridge group in your neighborhood. Join a small group at church. Take a night class. Join a gym. Use an app like Meetup to fi nd interesting local group activities or hobbies. Or look up old friends and reconnect.

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FRESH face

RENEWING THE LOOK OF YOUTH & VITALITY WITH FACIAL REJUVENATION

BY ANNETTE BROOKS

We live in a digital age where your face is your calling card, and first impressions have enduring effects on personal and professional relationships. With so much at stake, it’s no wonder facial rejuvenation services have gained such immense popularity. Whether you want to tackle skin smoothness and clarity, broken capillaries, hyperpigmentation, sun damage, rosacea, skin laxity, lines, wrinkles, or volume loss, services can be custom-tailored to meet your personal needs and goals.

NONINVASIVE TREATMENTS

Topical treatments, including peptides, antioxidants, and retinoids, play a crucial role in maintaining and improving skin health. Retinoids promote cell turnover and collagen production, and

Dr. Thomas and his staff

would like to wish each of you a very Merry Christmas.

Dr. Thomas and his experienced staff are built upon providing exceptional dentistry to each patient while providing a comforting atmosphere.

When Integrity Counts... HONEST, PATIENT DRIVEN CARE SINCE 1983.

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peptides signal the skin to produce more collagen. Antioxidants like vitamin C help protect your skin from free radicals and enhance its radiance. You can buy over-the-counter products, but medical-grade products used by medspas are generally more potent.

Chemical peels come in varying strengths, from light to deep. Treatments involve applying a solution to the skin that causes the top layer to exfoliate and peel off to reveal fresher, more youthful skin underneath. Peels can improve skin texture and tone and reduce the appearance of fi ne lines and hyperpigmentation.

Exfoliating treatments like microdermabrasion, dermabrasion, and dermaplaning remove the outermost layer of dead skin cells. Microdermabrasion uses tiny crystals or a diamondtipped wand, while dermabrasion is usually more intense and involves a rotating brush. Both stimulate collagen production and enhance skin texture. Dermaplaning promotes a smoother, brighter complexion by removing dead skin cells and fi ne facial hair with a special tool similar to a surgical scalpel.

Laser and light treatments target a host of issues from wrinkles and lines to sun damage, skin laxity, and scars. Fractional lasers, for example, create micro-injuries that stimulate the skin’s natural healing process, promoting collagen production. Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and next-generation broadband light (BBL) treatments address pigmentation issues, improve overall skin tone, and more.

Radiofrequency (RF) treatments use energy to heat the deeper layers of the skin, stimulating collagen and elastin production to help tighten the skin. Treatments using focused ultrasound energy stimulate collagen production and cause existing collagen reform to become thicker and stronger. Results include smoothed wrinkles, improved skin elasticity, the reduced appearance of jowls, lifted droopy eyelids or eyebrows, and more.

MINIMALLY INVASIVE TREATMENTS

Microneedling involves using tiny needles that create microinjuries in the skin, stimulating collagen and elastin production. It can be combined with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, where a patient’s blood is processed to extract growth factors that are then applied to the skin, enhancing the rejuvenation process. Combined microneedling and RF treatments are also growing in popularity.

Injectables like Botox and Dysport temporarily relax muscles in the treated area, reducing the appearance of wrinkles. Dermal fi llers restore lost volume, smooth out wrinkles, and enhance facial and lip contours. Kybella injections target and reduce submental fat, commonly called a “double chin.”

Thread lifts involve inserting dissolvable threads under the skin to lift and tighten sagging areas. The threads stimulate collagen production, providing both immediate and gradual improvements.

WHAT ABOUT SURGICAL SOLUTIONS?

Results from nonsurgical services are usually more subtle than surgical solutions, and results typically don’t last as long. If you’re looking for more dramatic results lasting up to 10 years or more, consult with a plastic surgeon. Ask them to compare surgical and nonsurgical options and create a customized treatment plan for you that may include both.

Psychological and Social Benefits

Although facial rejuvenation is not a solution to all of life’s problems, research indicates several benefits, including:

Improved Self-Esteem and Confidence

By addressing specific facial features that may cause insecurity, individuals often experience a more positive selfimage after facial rejuvenation. This enhanced confidence can positively impact various aspects of life, including personal relationships and professional interactions.

Reduction in Anxiety and Depression

Studies have shown that certain cosmetic procedures can contribute to a reduction in anxiety and depression. By addressing the source of their distress, facial rejuvenation can be a step towards improved mental health and emotional well-being.

Enhanced Social Interactions

Feeling more confident about one’s appearance can improve social interactions and engagement. You may feel more comfortable in social settings and be more willing to participate in various activities, enhancing your overall quality of life and emotional well-being.

Alignment with Self-Perception

Facial rejuvenation can help individuals feel more aligned with their inner selves. When appearance matches selfperception, it can lead to greater overall satisfaction and reduced psychological distress.

TONGUE tied?

UNDERSTANDING FRENECTOMIES FOR KIDS AND ADULTS

BY ANNETTE BROOKS

Most of us don’t think twice about the folds of tissue that connect our upper and lower lips to the gums, and our tongue to the fl oor of the mouth. Called frenum, also known as frenulum, they play a vital role in our health and wellness. By regulating movement of the lips and tongue, they help ensure proper functions when talking, swallowing, breathing, and latching for breastfeeding infants.

The procedure for adults is similar to that for children, although the healing time may be slightly longer. Most people return to normal activities within a week,

and pain and discomfort are usually minimal and manageable.

WHAT ARE FRENUM?

Three frenum in the mouth provide stability and support to various oral structures. The maxillary labial frenum connects the upper lip and gums, and the mandibular labial frenum connects the lower lip to the gum tissue. Connecting the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth, the lingual frenum enables the tongue to move back and forth for functions like chewing and swallowing while preventing it from moving too far back in the mouth.

WHAT’S A FRENECTOMY?

When frenums are too tight or too short, a minor procedure called a frenectomy may help achieve optimal function. During the procedure, a trained dentist, oral surgeon, pediatrician, or ENT uses a laser or surgical tools to slightly adjust the frenum to increase the range of motion for the affected area.

FRENECTOMIES FOR INFANTS AND KIDS

Pediatric frenectomies are often used to address tongue-tie and lip-tie. Tonguetie is a condition where the lingual frenum overly restricts the tongue’s

movement. When this occurs, speech development may be affected, and it can hinder proper oral hygiene.

Lip-tie occurs when the labial frenum is too tight. It can interfere with breastfeeding, so babies do not get the nourishment they need to thrive, and it may also cause a gap to form between the front teeth. By helping close gaps between front teeth or keeping gaps from forming, the need for orthodontic treatment at a later time may be reduced. A frenectomy for children and babies, performed after the area is numbed, is typically quick and causes minimal discomfort. Healing is usually fast, often within a few days. Pain can be addressed easily with over-the-counter pain relievers. Children may need a little time to adjust after a frenectomy, but they quickly adapt to the improved mobility and comfort.

FRENECTOMIES FOR ADULTS

While frenectomies are more common in children, adults can also benefit from this procedure. A tight lingual frenum can cause speech impediments, even in adulthood. A restricted labial frenum can pull on the gums, leading

to gum recession and discomfort. A restricted frenum can also interfere with the fit and function of dentures and dental implants.

LASER FRENECTOMY ADVANTAGES

While conventional scalpel and laser techniques are used for frenectomies, laser frenectomies are becoming increasingly common. They tend to involve less tissue trauma and seal blood vessels, resulting in less intraoperative bleeding. Patients undergoing laser frenectomies usually experience less discomfort during and after the procedure, fewer complications, and faster healing compared to conventional methods.

NEXT STEPS

If you or a loved one might benefit from a frenectomy, schedule a consultation with a medical professional to explore the best options and address your concerns. When choosing a provider, whether a dentist, oral surgeon, ENT, or pediatrician, ask about their training and experience with frenectomies, their understanding of tethered oral tissues (TOTs), and their approach to the procedure and follow-up care.

Can a Frenectomy Help Treat Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)?

OSA is a serious sleep disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep caused by a narrowing or collapse of the airway. Although a frenectomy isn’t usually a standalone cure for OSA, it can be a valuable component of a comprehensive treatment plan, especially for those with anatomical issues related to tongue movement. In some cases, the frenum, particularly the lingual frenum, can contribute to airway obstruction by preventing the tongue from maintaining its proper position during sleep, potentially contributing to airway blockage. A more mobile tongue can also contribute to better overall muscle tone in the throat, reducing the likelihood of airway collapse.

TAKE THE plunge

PLAN NOW FOR A POOL IN 2025

BY PETE ALFANO

Newcomers to Texas may be discovering what natives already know — summers are scorching hot. In fact, a local climatologist reported that the summer of 2023 was the second hottest on record for the state. And temperatures exceeding 100 degrees can range from an average of 20 days to a record 71 in 2011.

Whether purchasing new construction or an established house, you may want to invest in an inground pool to make the summers more tolerable. Experts say the best way to start is to do your homework before calling a pool installation company. So, what does that mean?

First, consider the expense and financing costs if needed. According to Forbes Magazine, the average cost of a concrete or gunite pool (longest lifespan) can range from $50,000 to $100,000, with high maintenance costs. A fi berglass pool can cost between $30,000 and $60,000, while a vinyl pool is between $28,000 and $40,000.

If you are buying a new house, consider building the pool during the same time frame as house construction and add it to the total mortgage. If you are adding a pool to your existing home, consider refinancing (depending on rates) your mortgage to spread the cost over time. Remember, the size and design of the pool will affect the price, and rectangular pools are generally the most cost-effective.

Next, survey your backyard and where you would prefer to situate a pool, given area and privacy. It is recommended that an inground pool utilize at most one-third of the total square footage. And it is not just the pool itself but also the pool deck, which is the paved area around the pool. Factor in a spa if you decide to add that to the pool. You want to preserve some green space in your yard.

A standard inground pool is typically around four-to-six feet deep. So that means no diving. If you want the ability to dive into a portion of the pool, remember that the deeper the pool, the more water it will take to keep it at a sufficient level, and water tends to evaporate quickly during a Texas summer.

Depending on the design, consider adding a railing next to the steps to make

it easier to enter the pool, and remember, in the state of Texas, a fence must enclose any property with a pool. Before starting your project, familiarize yourself with state and local pool building codes and requirements.

Pool equipment will be situated near one side of the house, including the fi lter, pump, and pool heater. You may have a spigot near the equipment that feeds water to the pool. Or, you can add a pool station to your irrigation system. The pool pump should be run from eight to twelve hours a day during a typical Texas summer to prevent algae growth and six to eight hours a day during the winter. The timer and scheduler can be found at the pump or in a panel inside the house. A pool pump should be set to run automatically when the temperature outdoors reaches 32 degrees to keep water moving and avoid freezing, which can damage the pool.

A backyard pool can be a source of a great family staycation, the focal point of a weekend barbecue or party, and an engaging diversion for kids, but it requires careful planning before the excavator rolls into the backyard to begin digging.

Pool Pro Pluses

Pool maintenance is not inexpensive, with the national average ranging from $120 to $350 a month for a pool pro. So, would you save money being your own pool person? Not likely. First, no one will be paying you for your time, as pools require a lot of care. You will have to vacuum the pool, brush the walls and floor, be a scientist and test the water often for the proper chemistry, clean the traps and backwash the filter. And you will have to buy, safely store, and resupply chemicals such as chlorine, pool shock, algaecide, cyanuric acid, alkaline, clarifier, and diatomaceous earth for backwashing (cleaning) the filter. Get the picture? For peace of mind and more free time, hiring a pool pro may make more sense.

PLANTING prep

IT’S NEVER TOO EARLY TO DREAM OF SPRING GARDENING

BY MIMI GREENWOOD KNIGHT

One of my favorite things to do in winter is to make a cup of herbal tea, spread out my plant plans and catalogs, and think about the gardening I’ll do come spring. But there’s more than daydreaming to keep a gardener occupied in winter. This is a great time to collect soil samples for testing by your local ag center. The results they return will help you plan for next year’s fertilization of the lawn, vegetable garden, and flower beds. Be sure to submit separate samples for different areas of your property where soil quality can be very different.

If you like a more organic approach in your garden (I do!), spread compost, manure, sawdust, straw, and shredded leaves over your garden beds and turn them into the soil. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at the difference this organic matter will make in your garden’s fertility, soil structure, and water-holding capacity come spring. If you’ve been toying with setting up a composting system, now’s a great time to get it started because of the abundance of available “brown” material (i.e., dead leaves). Plus, you’ll have plenty of time to read up on composting and set up your system. Now, let’s get those garden tools clean. Use a wire brush and apply a light coat of oil as a defense against rusting. Sharpen the edges of your hoes, spades, and pruning tools. Lightly sand tool handles and apply a coat of linseed oil. Or I like to give my hand tools a fresh coat of brightly colored paint. That makes them more visible, so I’m not forever misplacing them in the garden in spring and summer. To extend the life of your gas-powered equipment, such as weed eaters, lawnmowers, and leaf blowers, drain the fuel tanks, oil them up, and store them away.

Grandma Always Said…

Most gardeners have a time-honored metric — science-based or not — for when to plant in spring. Here are some of my favorites.

Not until the pecan tree leaves out

Wait until after Good Friday

Not until Mother’s Day

Plant potatoes in the moonlight on Good Friday

Wait until the muscadine grapevines have leaves

And my elderly neighbor likes to say, “If it thunders in February, there will be frost in April.”

Now, maybe there’s some hardscaping you’ve been wishing for, such as painting or replacing fencing, installing an irrigation system, building a retaining wall, or introducing garden features such as a birdbath, large rocks, or a fountain. Now’s your chance.

Winter is also the time to divide or move shrubs, roses, trees, evergreens, and springblooming perennials — even fall bloomers like asters — while they’re dormant. If you’ve been thinking about planting a citrus tree or two, planting between now and March will allow them to establish a hearty root system before the summer heat arrives, but

cover them for any hard freezes. January will be the time to plant grapes and berries.

Rake fallen leaves into your flower and vegetable beds or arrange them around the roots of your trees and bushes but pull them back a bit from the trunk so they’re not actually touching, which can cause them to rot and mold. This lovely leaf layer will suppress weeds and conserve water come summer, then decompose and contribute (natural, non-chemical) nutrients to y our soil.

Now, hang in there. Spring gardening will be here before we know it!

For That Person Who Has Everything

Consider gifting memberships to local botanical gardens, arboretums, or nature centers. You can support a worthy organization while giving a thoughtful gift to a friend or family member.

CELEBRATE!

Ideas for Gatherings

New

Year’s Eve

is the perfect time to invite loved ones over, pop some bubbly, and wrap up the year in style. Whether you want to plan a low-key get-together or go all out with a show-stopping celebration, you can host an unforgettable New Year’s Eve party right at home. Here’s how to make your event a magical one.

BY AUDREY SELLERS

When You Want to Go Big

Provide epic entertainment. If you really want to take your party up a notch, hire a DJ or band that’ll keep your crowd dancing all night long. You could also set up a mini-stage area for dance-offs or karaoke. Don’t forget the photo booth with all the fun props for people to capture the evening’s festivities.

Impress your guests with a champagne tower. It’s easy to create a sparkling centerpiece that adds a touch of glamour to your party. Start by stacking some champagne glasses in a pyramid shape on a metallic serving tray, making sure each layer is slightly smaller than the one below. Then, pour champagne from the top and watch it cascade down through the glasses.

Create a feast for the senses. Treat your guests to a fine-dining experience by bringing in a personal chef or caterer to prepare a multi-course meal. If you want something more hands-on, set up gourmet cooking stations where guests can create their own dishes with help from a cooking instructor. You’ll be the talk of the neighborhood if guests get to roll their own sushi or craft gourmet pizzas at your New Year’s Eve bash.

Keep Things Cozy

Create a relaxing ambiance. Light some candles, string fairy lights, and set out plush blankets. If you have a fireplace, light it up and place floor cushions nearby for a cozy spot to socialize. Curate a playlist of relaxing music or ambient sounds that add to the atmosphere without overpowering the conversation.

Decide on the entertainment. You could have a movie marathon and play some rom-coms like The Holiday or

family-friendly flicks like Happy New Year, Charlie Brown. Set up a snack station with a popcorn and hot chocolate bar so guests can indulge in some treats while enjoying the show. After the movie, bring out board or card games to liven things up before the ball drops.

Serve up some comfort food. When you’re spending a cozy night in, warm comfort foods like homemade mac and cheese or flavorful stews can make people feel snug and at home. They can also evoke a sense of nostalgia. Enjoying Grandma’s famous spaghetti Bolognese, for example, can spark memories of happy moments with loved ones.

Your Home, Your Celebration

This New Year’s Eve, skip the crowded venues and overpriced drinks. When you host at home, you can control the menu and the playlist, and you don’t have to worry about parking or cover charges. Let the ideas above guide you in planning the perfect-for-you New Year’s Eve gathering, right from home.

FAB

FAVORS

No party is complete without favors. Hand out these small gifts to keep the fun going long after the confetti settles.

Mini bottles of bubbly. Give your guests little bottles of champagne or sparkling cider at the end of the night. Add a ribbon or a custom label for a special touch.

New Year’s resolutions jars. Fill small jars with inspirational quotes or goal-setting prompts. Your party guests can use them to spark ideas for their own resolutions.

A recipe card. If you created a signature cocktail, mocktail, or special dish for your fête, share it with guests on a notecard so they can recreate it at home. Add a fun anecdote or thank-you message to make it even more special.

Mini plants or succulents. Unlike many other gifts, a small plant or succulent can thrive for years. It’s also symbolic, showing that you wish your loved ones growth and new beginnings in 2025.

The Magic of

Music

Creating the Perfect Playlist for Parties and Holiday Gatherings

BY MIMI GREENWOOD KNIGHT

Each spring, when I head to the beach with my gal pals, I’m in charge of games and activities. But my friend, Giselle, is in charge of the music. A couple of months before our trip, she’ll send a group text asking for songs we’d like to add to our

beach playlist. Over the years, the list has grown and evolved, and it serves as the perfect backdrop for a week of laughing, sharing, bonding — and often a little spontaneous line dancing.

A Bespoke Playlist

Consider your party’s theme, guest list, and setting. For instance, you’ll want different tunes for a kid’s birthday party than you would for a formal sit-down dinner and different still for a bachelorette bash. For something like a wedding, your playlist might begin with solemn, romantic tunes for the actual ceremonies, then transition to raucous numbers to get everybody on the dance floor at the reception. For a holiday party, you’ll want to include some seasonal songs with a blend of unusual covers and remixes with time-honored, nostalgic versions.

Include a Good Mix

If you’re hosting different ages and backgrounds, be sure your music comes from more than one genre and more than one decade. If your guests range from 20-somethings to seniors, for example, the current top 40 probably isn’t the ticket. Though some songs just seem to please everyone. Think Van Morrison’s “Brown Eyed Girl,” Neil Diamond’s “Sweet Caroline,” Abba’s “Dancing Queen,” Earth Wind and Fire’s “September,” Kenny Loggins’ “Footloose,” and Whitney Houston’s “I Wanna Dance with Somebody.” Try mixing these musical gems with older and newer songs to please everyone at your event.

Request Requests

Go ahead and ask your guests what they’d like to hear. (This can head off requests in the middle of your party.) We all have that one friend who’s particularly music minded. Be sure to get their input. Maybe ask them to share their current playlists. If you both use the same streaming service, they may even be able to merge their list with your own instead of adding each song manually.

Make Your List Long Enough

As with food and drink, having too much is always better than not enough. Be sure to include enough songs to last for your entire event. In fact, go ahead and make it 45 minutes to an hour longer than you need. That way, if you decide to settle in with a few friends after everybody else has gone, you’ll still have music to enjoy together. And, if you’ll be playing music from your phone or iPad, be sure to put it on “airplane mode” so alerts, calls, and texts don’t disrupt the music.

Lastly, resist the urge to include only up-tempo songs. Too many in a row can feel exhausting or monotonous. Instead, alternate between these toe-tapping tunes and more chill numbers. This balance will keep your party interesting, and your guests engaged. Now that you’ve completed your playlist, you can get busy planning your menu and signature cocktails.

Want some suggestions for your holiday party playlist? Say no more. Here are some holiday hits we really like.

• “The Christmas Song” – Stevie Wonder

• “All I Want for Christmas is You” – Mariah Carey

• “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” – Harry Connick, Jr.

• “This Christmas” – John Legend

• “Linus and Lucy” – Vince Guaraldi

• “Merry Christmas Baby” – Otis Redding

• “DJ Play A Christmas Song” – Cher

• “Wonderful Christmastime” – Paul Mc Cartney

• “Jingle Bells” – Michael Bublé

• “Let It Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow!” – Frank Sinatra

• “What Child is This?” – Lauren Daigle

• “Joy to the World” – Aretha Franklin

• “Peace on Earth/Little Drummer Boy” – Bing Crosby & David Bowie

• “Jingle Bells” – Ella Fitzgerald

• “Christmas Waltz” – She & Him

• “Sleigh Ride” – The Ronettes

• “Underneath the Tree” – Kelly Clarkson

• “Run, Rudolph, Run” – Chuck Berry

• “Jingle Bell Rock” – Hall & Oates

• “Santa Baby” – Eartha Kitt

• “Do They Know It’s Christmas” – Band Aid

• “Mistletoe” – Justin Bieber

• “Last Christmas” – Wham!

• “Cozy Little Christmas” – Katy Perry

• “A Marshmallow World” – Dean Martin

• “Santa Tell Me” – Ariana Grande

Get Growing

PLANT THE SEEDS FOR YOUR FINANCIAL FUTURE NOW

BY PETER ALFANO

If you found a hundred-dollar bill underneath a sofa cushion, what would you do with it? Spend it? Make a deposit to your bank account? Or would you invest it yourself on Wall Street, hoping you can make that money multiply?

There are people who like “playing the stock market,” even if they do not have an abundance of knowledge about how stocks, bonds, annuities, real estate, and other investments work. They may as well take that $100 to a Las Vegas casino or a racetrack. And yet, it also takes a leap of faith to entrust your hardearned cash to a financial planner, although that is generally the best way to grow your money.

It really isn’t enough to have a 401k plan through your employer or an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) if you are self-employed or work for a small business. A study from Northwestern Mutual revealed that 71% of adults believe their financial planning needed improvement, while only 29% have a financial planner. Other studies show that working with a planner can add 15% more to your retirement fund.

So, what are you waiting for? Sure, it can be difficult thinking about retirement when living paycheck-topaycheck, making loan and mortgage payments, and perhaps also raising a family. All the more reason to have a financial planner help you with that nest egg that will enable you to navigate the future and perhaps give you peace of mind.

Investing always carries a measure of risk, of course, but over time, gains customarily outweigh losses, even during an economic downturn or recession. The golden rule of investing is “Don’t panic.” The stock market can be volatile, and you should never react impulsively to daily or weekly fluctuations.

Just like hiring an electrician, plumber, or contractor, perform your due diligence when hiring a financial advisor and interview more than one person or company to handle your assets. What are their qualifications? Are they licensed, and what is your agent’s education and background in financial planning?

Maybe you can ask to speak to a few of their clients for feedback. How is the advisor or their firm rated in the

industry? It is also important that your strategy aligns with theirs. If you are conservative, you won’t want a big risk-taker, and vice versa. And keep in touch with your planner. Schedule quarterly phone meetings and at least an annual in-person meeting to review your portfolio.

Also, know and understand your planner’s fee structure. They can vary from one firm to another. Some financial planners charge a flat rate, while some take a percentage of all assets. The goal is to have your investment grow from three to five percent annually over 25 years.

Most experts advise getting a financial planner when your liquid assets equal and exceed $50,000. However, some advisors or firms accept new clients who have fewer assets. Remember, although your money is safe in a bank savings account protected against loss ($250,000 for an individual; $500,000 for a joint account) by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), even a relatively high interest rate won’t make that money grow much at all. So, consider the benefits of planning ahead with a financial planner.

STUNNING state

PICTURESQUE

PLACES IN TEXAS YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS

BY CHRISTINA GARCIA

BIG BEND

Remote and vast. At Big Bend in the Trans-Pecos region of Texas, those two adjectives are accurate but insuffi cient to describe the beauty that draws backpackers, hikers, motorcyclists, mountain bikers, boaters, and aviators to the area to bask in the beautiful scenery and maybe even explore some petroglyphs. Horseback trips are also common in this lovely wilderness.

The Chisos Mountains offer some beautiful hikes to peaks more than 7,000 feet above sea level for those looking to get plenty of exercise. If a car ride sounds better, enjoy the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive to the

Sotol Vista and Santa Elena Canyon trailhead, both famous for their excellent views.

Navigable by kayak and canoe, the Rio Grande is often traversed by people on day-long trips, which you can reserve online with local guides. The views from the canyons, including Santa Elena, Mariscal, Colorado, and others, make for unforgettable journeys on the border with Mexico.

Summer days are incredibly hot, so visit during milder seasons. Don’t miss the small natural hot springs, Boquillas Hot Springs, for a healing soak. To stay in the park, camp, park an RV, or book a room in the Chisos Mountain Lodge.

NATURAL BRIDGE CAVERNS

Go underground. Discover the enchanting Natural Bridge Caverns, Texas’ hidden subterranean gem nestled just outside San Antonio. As you journey through its awe-inspiring chambers, marvel at stunning stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over millennia.

The Discovery Tour offers a family-friendly path, guiding visitors 180 feet below the earth’s surface, while the new Hidden Wonders Tour takes visitors through the expansion of their spectacular hidden cavern with state-of-theart lighting, newly open rooms, a sound and light show, and conveyor ride back to the surface. Adventure Tours include climbing and crawling through undeveloped passages, and the Lantern Tour leads you with only the light of lanterns, allowing you to experience the cave through the eyes of the original discoverers in the 1960s.

Above ground, the lush parkland provides perfect spots for picnicking and hiking, with breathtaking views of the iconic natural bridge along with playgrounds with ropes, ladders, mazes, and gem mining. Whether you’re a geology enthusiast or seeking a unique family outing, Natural Bridge Caverns promises an unforgettable adventure beneath the Texas sky.

PALO DURO CANYON STATE PARK

Think Dr. Seuss. When tall rock spires have been eroded into interesting shapes, they’re called hoodoos. These striking formations are close to something you might have seen in kids’ books. At Palo Duro Canyon State Park, the Lighthouse hoodoo stands in stunning shades of red and ochre, framing beautiful vistas. All around the canyon, unique cliff faces, secluded

caves, and hidden arches offer exciting areas to explore in the Panhandle region of Texas.

As the second largest canyon in the United States, this spectacular area of 20,000 acres welcomes sightseers and outdoor explorers for activities as serene as birdwatching and as adrenaline packed as mountain biking. Horseback trail rides and scenic tours are available too.

Take it all in by car on a scenic drive down Park Road 5 to enjoy views from the rim to the canyon floor or reserve a Jeep tour from Palo Duro Creek Ranch to explore with a knowledgeable guide. For a shorter hike, take the one-anda-half-mile trek on the Lighthouse Trail or the one-hour horseback tour from Old West Stables, located inside the park. Luxury overnight accommodations are available at the nearby Doves Rest Cabins.

MONAHANS SANDHILLS STATE PARK

Grab your goggles. Texas isn’t always blessed with enough snow to sled across, but Monahans Sandhills in the Permian Basin of West Texas are a great alternative. The 3,840 acres of sand dunes include both fi xed and active dunes of pale orange quartz sands. Fit for a toboggan or board any time of year, the dunes shift and blow. Visitors can rent boards from park headquarters, but we’ve heard that some even bring skis. Horseback riding trails add an extra avenue for exploration in these dunes, which stretch into New Mexico.

CADDO LAKE

Don’t feed the alligators. At Caddo Lake, alligators, alligator gar, and alligator turtles are right at home, but that doesn’t stop this area from being a favorite destination for travelers. Flooded bald cypress trees navigable by boat are some of the most jaw-dropping parts of the landscape. Caddo Lake State Park boasts the largest cypress forest in the world and is a fantastic area to visit for paddling, fi shing, hiking, or camping. Crossing into Louisiana from the Piney Woods of East Texas, the freshwater area stretches 25,000 acres into bayous and canals with trees picturesquely draped in Spanish moss and lots of natural wildlife. Just don’t go swimming unless you’ve found a clearly designated area.

To explore this otherworldly territory, hop aboard a sunset tour or cruise through on a privately operated boat tour from nearby Karnack or Uncertain. For those with an interest in the haunting ruins of the Longhorn Army Ammunition Plant, the Caddo Lake National Wildlife Refuge will satisfy.

Photos: Santa Elana Canyon - Big Bend National Park, The Lighthouse - Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Hidden Wonders Tour - Natural Bridge Caverns, Monahans Sandhill State Park, Bald Cypress Tree - Caddo Lake

HEARTY holidays

DINNER DISHES FOR COLD DECEMBER NIGHTS

BY JENNIFER BAJSEL

BALSAMIC GLAZED BRISKET WITH BRAISED ONIONS

SERVINGS: 6 | PREP: 20 MIN. | COOK: 3 HRS. 20 MIN. TOTAL: 3 HRS. 40 MIN.

INGREDIENTS: 2-3 lb. brisket, trimmed | 2 oz. kosher salt | 1 tsp. black pepper | 1 Tbsp. smoked paprika | 1 Tbsp. garlic powder | 1 tsp. onion powder | ½ tsp. chili powder | 1 carrot, peeled, chopped | 1 medium sweet onion, chopped | 4 thyme sprigs | 2-3 cloves garlic | 2 cups chicken stock | ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce | 3 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar | 2 tsp. soy sauce | 2 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil Braised Onions: 1 sweet onion, cut in wedges | 1 red onion, cut in wedges | 1 Tbsp. butter | 1 Tbsp. sugar

DIRECTIONS: PREHEAT the oven to 325°. PAT dry the brisket and trim excess fat, leaving some fat for flavor and moisture. COMBINE salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder. RUB the brisket all over with the spices. BROWN the brisket in a large cast iron skillet with olive oil. REMOVE from heat and add chopped carrots, onion, garlic clove, and thyme. MIX stock, Worcestershire, soy sauce, and vinegar. POUR onto brisket and cover with foil. PLACE the brisket into the oven. COOK for 3 hours, basting occasionally. REMOVE from oven; take brisket out to rest. KEEP brisket covered with foil while resting. STRAIN the remaining sauce and place back into skillet. ADD onions, butter, and sugar to the sauce. COOK on medium-low until onions are softened and sauce is reduced. SLICE brisket and serve with braised onions and sauce.

TIPS & TRICKS: Spray the panko with cooking spray or drizzle melted butter to make the breadcrumbs brown quickly.

LOBSTER MAC & CHEESE

SERVINGS: 6 | PREP: 20 MIN. | COOK: 15 MIN. | TOTAL: 35 MIN.

INGREDIENTS: 1 16 oz. pkg. elbow macaroni | 3 Tbsp. butter | 2-3 lobster tails | 3 Tbsp. flour | 2 cups half & half | 1 cup gruyere, shredded | 2 cup cheddar, shredded | ¼ tsp. nutmeg | 1 cup panko breadcrumbs | ½ cup parmesan | ¼ cup parsley, chopped | ½ Tbsp. kosher salt | 1 tsp. black pepper

DIRECTIONS: COOK pasta according to package directions in a large sauce pot. STRAIN pasta and set aside. MELT butter in the same sauce pot. REMOVE lobster meat from the tails and chop meat. ADD to melted butter and sauté for a few minutes until the lobster is no longer translucent. SPRINKLE flour over lobster and stir into butter. ADD half & half and bring to a simmer. STIR until thickened. ADD gruyere, cheddar, and nutmeg. STIR until cheese is melted and creamy. SEASON with salt & pepper. ADD pasta and mix until combined. PLACE macaroni & cheese into a baking dish and top with panko, parmesan and parsley. BAKE in a 350° oven for 15 minutes until golden on top.

TIPS & TRICKS: Spray the panko with cooking spray or drizzle melted butter to make the breadcrumbs brown quickly.

CHICKEN & MUSHROOM MARSALA

SERVINGS: 4 | PREP: 15 MIN. | COOK: 30 MIN. | TOTAL: 45 MIN.

INGREDIENTS: 4 chicken breasts, trimmed | 1 Tbsp. kosher salt | 1 tsp. black pepper | 1 cup flour | 2 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil | 8 oz. pkg sliced baby bella mushrooms | 1 large shallot | 2 cloves, garlic, minced | 1 tsp. thyme | ¼ cup sweet marsala wine | 2 cups chicken broth | 3 Tbsp. butter, divided | 2 Tbsp. parsley, chopped | 2 Tbsp. heavy cream

DIRECTIONS: TRIM chicken into thin breasts. COMBINE flour, salt & pepper and place on a plate. HEAT a large saute pan on medium heat with 2 Tbsp. olive oil. COAT chicken in flour mixture. ADD to heated pan and sear until golden brown. REMOVE chicken and set aside. ADD mushrooms, shallot, garlic, and two Tbsp. of butter to the pan and saute until softened. DEGLAZE pan with marsala, scraping up brown bits. ADD chicken stock, thyme, and the remaining Tbsp. of butter. COOK over medium heat until reduced and thickened. ADD heavy cream and stir to combine. ADD chicken back into the pan and simmer until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F. SPRINKLE with parsley.

TIPS & TRICKS: Sprinkle 2 Tbsp. of flour onto mushrooms before adding liquid to thicken the sauce without reducing; it will produce more gravy.

ABOUT OUR CHEF

Jennifer is a private chef in Dallas, TX, with a passion for home-cooked meals with a global influence. In addition to cooking, she hosts an Italian cooking show on national streaming television. To follow her, go to JenniferBajsel.com or find her on Instagram @JENNIFER_BAJSEL

5001 S. Cooper Street, Suite 111 Arlington-South,TX

3141 E Broad St. Suite 115 Mansfield-Tx (817) 557-2253 Arlington, TX 76017

Grand Prairie-Tx (682) 204-0235 Mansfield, Tx 76063

3136 State Hwy 161 Suite 220

Grand Prairie, Tx 75052

(945) 231-8204

12/31/24

A SMATTERING of stuff

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

GAL GIVING

Tart by Taylor is a Dallas-based brand known for its vibrant, pop-culture-inspired home decor. Their “Golden Gals” coaster set, celebrating the iconic ‘80s ladies features artwork by Heather Perry, and celebrates friendship and nostalgia. Made from durable acrylic, these coasters showcase beloved characters in retro workout gear, blending humor and practicality. Each piece is handcrafted in Texas, adding a unique, personal touch to any home and is the perfect present to thank someone for being a friend!

$55, SHOPTARTBYTAYLOR.COM

SPEAKEASY STYLE

The Wine Savant’s Colored Coupe Art Deco Glasses set offers six coupe glasses that add a vintage touch to any celebration. Inspired by Art Deco elegance, these crystal glasses are perfect for champagne, martinis, Manhattans, and more. Each glass features a unique color, bringing style and fl air to your drink presentation. Their speakeasy-inspired design makes them an excellent choice for entertaining or a thoughtful gift for cocktail enthusiasts who appreciate timeless, classic glassware.

$80, THEWINESAVANT.COM

SLEEPING BEAUTY

The iconic, fan-fave pout perfector Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask is a perfect stocking stuffer. This deeply hydrating, leave-on lip treatment nourishes and smooths overnight and is infused with vitamin C, antioxidants, and Laneige’s Moisture Wrap technology that provides intense hydration, leaving lips soft and supple by morning.

$25, SEPHORA.COM

ROAD-TRIP REVEAL

Reach International Outfitters (RIO) is dedicated to inspiring exploration across the U.S., offering bucket-list scratch-off cards for Texas and other states. A perfect gift for travel lovers, their Texas Adventure Bucket List showcases 50 adventures throughout the state. Pick a city you want to explore, check out the icons at the bottom of the card to determine the season, cost, and time of day, and then scratch off the card to reveal a QR code with your adventure.

$65, REACHINTERNATIONALOUTFITTERS.COM