Living Magazine February 2024

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A R L I N GTO N / M A N S F I E L D / G R A N D P R A I R I E

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WELCOMING WILDLIFE

AT T R A C T I N G B I R D S , B U T T E R F L I E S , & M O R E

TRAVELING ROUTE 66

A L L A B O U T YO U R R E T R O R O A D T R I P

WATCH PARTY WINNERS CROWD-PLEASING BITES

Advanced heart care with serious heart for our community At Methodist Mansfield Medical Center, we’re devoted to personalized care for complex heart issues. From skilled specialists, innovative techniques, and minimally invasive procedures we provide the advanced heart care our friends and neighbors depend on. That’s community and why so many people Trust Methodist.

Caring for a wide range of heart and vascular conditions, including:

Take our free heart health risk assessment today at MethodistHealthSystem.org/HeartCareMansfield

or call (469) 824-3392

Aortic aneurysm Arrhythmias Carotid artery disease Congenital heart disease Coronary artery disease Heart attack Heart failure Heart valve disease Peripheral artery disease Stroke

Texas law prohibits hospitals from practicing medicine. The physicians on the Methodist Health System medical staff are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Methodist Mansfield Medical Center, Methodist Health System, or any of its affiliated hospitals. Methodist Health System complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.

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The power to be you again.

When you’ve lived with pain for years, getting relief is a cause for celebration. Our pain management treatment team offers personalized treatments and procedures that are truly life-changing. From your neck to your hips to your knees, we’ll work together to get you back to a pain-free life.

707 Highlander Boulevard Arlington, TX 76015

BSWArlington.com 855.41.ORTHO Appointments

Photography may include models or actors and may not represent actual patients. Physicians provide clinical services as members of the medical staff at one of Baylor Scott & White Health’s subsidiary, community or affiliated medical centers and do not provide clinical services as employees or agents of those medical centers or Baylor Scott & White Health. Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic and Spine Hospital – Arlington is a facility in which physicians have an ownership or investment interest. The list of physician owners or investors is available upon request. BRM-990852 ©2024 Baylor Scott & White Health.

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When it comes to matters of the heart, make sure you choose a hospital that has one.

Texas Health Hospital Mansfield is committed to ensuring you receive the whole-person care you deserve. Whether you need a routine check-up or are experiencing heart problems, you can trust that our team will care for you like those we love most.

For patients experiencing a heart attack, time is critical. That’s why our emergency department collaborates with local emergency medical services (EMS) to provide advanced cardiac care faster than the beat of your own heart. Additionally, our Cardiac Cath Lab is open 24/7 and delivers quick service when time is of the essence. In other words, you can count on our team to ensure seamless patient care from start to finish.

Visit TexasHealthMansfield.org/Heart to learn more.

Doctors on the medical staffs practice independently and are not employees or agents of Texas Health hospitals or Texas Health Resources. ©2024 Texas Health Resources

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

8001 Anderson Boulevard Fort Worth, TX 76120 1 block west of Sam’s Club on I-30 and Eastchase Parkway

best of ARLINGTON ARLINGTON & MANSFIELD READERS’ CHOICE

2015, 2017, 2017, 2019-2023 2019-2021

Total heart care.

Right where you need it.

Dr. Bradford specializes in minimally invasive surgery, offering patients a successful alternative to traditional open heart and open chest surgery. Providing the advanced heart care our friends and neighbors depend on. That’s community and why so many people Trust Methodist.

Darien W. Bradford, MD Cardiothoracic Surgeon

2022

2023

Best Cardiothoracic Surgeon 2013, 2015-2023!

Call 817-465-5311 to make an appointment ADVANC ED SURGERY F O R D ISEASE S O F T H E LUN G S, H EART AND CHEST.

2800 E. Broad Street #514 Mansfield, TX 76063 Methodist Heart and Lung is owned and operated by MedHealth/Methodist Medical Group and staffed by independently practicing physicians who are employees of MedHealth/Methodist Medical Group. The physicians and staff who provide services at this site are not employees or agents of Methodist Health System or any of its affiliated hospitals.

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contents | LIVING MAGAZINE inside this issue

FEBRUARY 2024 | t i p s

31 | h o me & GARDE N on the cover 22 I SURGICAL ASSOCIATES OF MANSFIELD

features

30 MATT ERS OF M OV IN G Relocating in Retirement and How to Manage Life if You Do

32 A ROOF OV ER YOUR H E AD Protecting Your Investment for Years to Come

36 W ELCOM IN G WILDLIF E Tips for Attracting Birds, Butterflies, and More

38 ELEVAT E YOUR GARDE N Tips for Gardening with Raised Planter Boxes

42 R UG READY The Art of Selecting Sizes and Placement

46 CLEAN SWEEP Freshening Up Your Home this Spring

48 FRUIT T REES How to Plant, Establish, and Push Them to Production

50 FOLLOW YOUR HEART Love is in the Air with Accessories that Say, “That’s Amore.”

64 PAT H TO SUCC ESS Five Tips for Parents to Support their All-Stars

42

in every issue 16 PUBLISHER’S LETTER 18 SOCIAL CALENDAR 19 BEST BETS 20 FRUIT OF THE VINE 24 TALK OF THE TOWN 28 LIVING PET CLUB 74 LIVING LIKES

56 WELLNESS

58 AESTHETICS

HEART HEALTHY PREGNANCY

GUM FITNESS

66 ADVENTURE

70 CUISINE

TRAVELING ROUTE 66

WATCH PARTY WINNERS

INVEST IN YOURSELF

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letter from the publisher

“Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God.” – 1 John 4:7 Hallmark has a lot to say about love. Well, so does the Bible.

The original valentine, God’s word is all about the redemptive power of God’s love toward us.

In fact, love (in its many facets) is mentioned over 700 times in the Bible. God tells us of His love for us and instructs us how we should love one another.

John 15 tells us it was love that led Jesus to lay down His life for us. Ephesians 5:25 instructs husbands to love their wives as Christ loves the church. And 1 Corinthians 13 reads like a manual of how to love unselfishly, non-judgmentally, without envy or arrogance, but with patience and kindness. In Matthew 22, Jesus urges us to love the Lord our God with all our heart and love our neighbor as ourselves. There’s even the steamy love letter that is Song of Soloman. And 1 John 4:16 tells us quite plainly that God IS love.

However you choose to celebrate Valentine’s Day this year—with flowers and chocolates and night’s on the town—don’t forget the one Who invented love and Who loved us before He spoke the world into existence.

MISTY MORGAN-DANIELS, OWNER/PUBLISHER mdaniels@livingmagazine.net (817) 908-2111

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MAILBOX • INBOX • ONLINE

letters from

O U R M AYO R S m a y o r MICHAEL EVANS February is going to be a great time for people of all ages in Mansfield. For our senior residents and visitors, we invite you to enjoy activities at our Mansfield Activity Center. For more information, go to mansfieldtexas.gov/MAC. The Man House Museum is offering another Museum Moments’ Hands-on History event taking place on Saturday, Feb. 10. We have something for all of you looking for great Valentine’s Day gifts. On February 13 at 6 p.m., join us at the Mansfield Public Library to learn the art of Paper Quilling. There is even more to do at the Mansfield library if you like book clubs. We host both, “As the Page Turns “(non-fiction) on Saturday, Feb. 16, and “Murder & Mayhem,” on Wednesday, Feb. 28.

M AN SFIE L D chase” game, all ages are welcome. For more information go to birdcount.org. Make plans for the Tutu 2.2-mile fun run happening Wednesday, Feb. 22 at McKnight Park East. The Lot Downtown will also be hosting the Venues, Vendors, and Vibes Event Expo on Saturday, Feb 24 where visitors can see a wide array of company offerings.

If you want more adventure, there are several archery classes offered for beginners and advanced students, as well as painting courses for kids and adults all throughout February. We are looking forward to you enjoying our city, and hope to see you around town.

We even have something for our outdoor types.

Calling all Bird Watchers from Feb. 12-18, take part in the “Great Backyard Bird Count and Goose-

m a y o r RON JENSEN There are so many reasons we live life grand in Grand Prairie. Over the past few years, thousands of families have visited and decided to make our town home. And it’s no wonder. There’s something for everyone—at every age—to do and to love in Grand Prairie.

Case in point. Parents and kids are having a blast on Tuesdays from 11:00 to noon at the main library branch on Conover Drive during the Read, Play, Learn! class making connections through action, rhymes, and activities. Also on Tuesdays, the Warmack Library on Bardin Road offers fun with hands-on activities, experiments, and games exploring science, technology, engineering, arts, and math starting at 4:15.

G RAN D PRA IR IE Feeling lucky? Make your way to Lone Star Park for some major league horse racing. Enjoy some boating on Joe Pool Lake. Take in a movie at Uptown Theater.

Enjoy the farmer’s market on Main Street or get your shop on at any number of local shops and outlets.

Add all that to our beautiful neighborhoods, exceptional public schools, thousands of acres of parkland, and friendly welcoming locals and it’s no wonder so many are eager to call Grand Prairie home.

It’s not just kids who are living life grand. There’s plenty to do here whatever your age. Put together a pickle-ball team and head over to Chicken N Pickle.

m a y o r JIM ROSS One of the things that makes The American Dream City so special is the way we invest in our children.

Arlington has long been an idyllic place to raise a family and it becomes more so, each year. There’s no end to the wholesome fun you can have with your kids in and around Arlington. From Six Flags and River Legacy Nature Center to Free Play Arcade, Urban Air Adventure Park, The Planetarium at UTA, and Arlington Skatium, the fun never ends. And don’t forget all our family-friendly parks and walking trails.

Between now and February 10th, your kids can enjoy some fun that’s also educational at the Forever Forest traveling exhibit at River Legacy Nature Center. The immersive and interactive exhibit demonstrates how our everyday lives connect to forests through the ways we live, work and play.

ARLINGTON Kids can enjoy hands-on, focused learning about forest life and sustainable harvesting, climb, crawl, and slide on treetops, become a conductor for a day, work a kid-sized replica of a Union Pacific engine, or work together to build a house as they learn about the many uses of wood.

Produced by Omaha Children’s Museum and presented

by Union Pacific and North American Wholesale Lumber Association, the exhibit teaches future environmental stewards the proper way to sustain our forests and the many benefits of maintaining a vibrate forest ecosystem. The exhibition is open 9 a.m. until 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday.

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community | SOCIAL CALENDAR

FEBRUARY 3 AND 24

FEBRUARY 23

MOBILE PET ADOPTION EVENT AT PETSMART HIGHLANDS

PARENT’S NIGHT OUT / NIGHT AT THE MOVIES

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! Visit with adoptable cats available inside PetSmart! 10am2pm.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.

Enjoy an evening in or out and leave the kids with us. We will have plenty of games, a bounce house and crafts. Ages 5-12. 6pm-8pm. Cost is $20. Dinner provided. Dottie Lynn Rec Center, 3200 Norwood Lane. Registration is at our website.

A r l i n g to n

FEBRUARY 9

DADDY DAUGHTER DANCE G ra n d P ra i r i e

This memorable night will include a dinner, dancing and a gift for the daughters. Limo rides and photos will be available for an additional cost.

6:30pm-8:30pm. Cost is $35. Ruthe Jackson Center, 3113 S. Carrier Parkway.

Visit Charley Taylor Rec Center, 601 E. Grand Prairie or call 972-339-3770 to register before tickets sell out. Tickets will not be sold at the Center.

FEBRUARY 13

VALENTINE TOT PARTY

A r l i n g to n P a r ks a n d R e c re a t i o n

Come by for a morning filled with Va l e nt i n e c ra f t s , f u n g a m e s a n d special treats. This event is designated for 5 and under and we ask that all participants are escorted by a guardian 18 years or older. 10am-121:30am. Cost is $10/child. Dottie Lynn Rec Center, 3200 Norwood Lane. Visit our website to register.

A r l i n g to n P a r ks a n d R e c re a t i o n

N AT U R A L LY F U N . O R G FEBRUARY 24

VENUES, VENDORS & VIBES M a n sf i e l d

Join us for our first ever expo! Bringing together all the best local event venues and vendors, this expo is perfect for professional event planners, brides-tobe or anyone planning a part or special occasion. Entry is free. 10am-4pm. The LOT Downtown, 110 S. Main St.

MARCH 2

DADDY DAUGHTER DANCE 2024

A r l i n g to n P a r ks a n d R e c re a t i o n

Save the date! Entering the Diamond Era, it’s time to Sparkle & Shine! The Bob Duncan Center will be transformed into an illuminating Grand Ballroom where guests will dance the night away. Individual tickets include a corsage, light refreshments, dessert, a professional photographer to capture the memory, keepsake souvenir tickets onsite and parting gift for our young guests. All ages. March 2 4-6pm; or 7-9pm. Tickets are sold per person at the prices listed here. Registration from February 1 – February 25 is $39 per person. To register bit.ly/DDD224

N AT U R A L LY F U N . O R G

february 16

FEBRUARY 16

GALENTINE’S DAY

A r l i n g to n P a r ks a n d R e c re a t i o n

Celebrate with your ladies. It’s GALentine’s Day. Join us for an evening of fun games, giveaways and girl dinner. Dress code and who you bring is up to you! 6pm-8:30pm.

Ages 16+. Cost is $20. East Rec Center, 1817 New York Ave. Visit our website to register.

N AT U R A L LY F U N . O R G

FRIDAY NIGHT SKATE

A r l i n g to n P a r ks a n d R e c re a t i o n

Have a blast skating with your friends, play games and participate in skating activities throughout the evening. Ages 13 and under. Cost is $15 per child. 2 slices of pizza and a drink included in cost. 7pm-10pm. Pre-registration is required. Elzie Odom Athletic Center.

N AT U R A L LY F U N . O R G

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see more e vents in your area on LIVINGMAGAZINE.NET

our picks | BEST BETS ON- S C R E E N R O M A N C E

SYLVIE’S LOVE

ROMAN HOLIDAY

A modern-day musical about a busker and an immigrant and their eventful week in Dublin, as they write, rehearse and record songs that tell their love story.

When a young woman meets an aspiring saxophonist in her father’s record shop in 1950s Harlem, their love ignites a sweeping romance that transcends changing times, geography, and professional success.

A bored and sheltered princess escapes her guardians and falls in love with an American newsman in Rome.

ROMANTIC SOUNDS

ETTA JAMES AT LAST!

CHET BAKER BAKER’S HOLIDAY CHRIS ISAAK HEART SHAPED WORLD

ROMANTIC READS

ONCE

NEVER TOO LITTLE TO LOVE

BY JEANNE WILLIS Tiny Too-Little loves someone who’s very, very tall, and Tiny wants a kiss. What if he stands on his tiptoes on top of a thimble?

What if he stands on his tiptoes on top of a matchbox on top of a thimble? Clever cut-away pages show Tiny’s precarious pile growing higher and higher as this comical, cumulative tale of a mouse in search of a kiss shows that you’re never too little (or too big) to love.

THE OTHER BENNET SISTER

BY JANICE HADLOW

Movie poster images from Once (2007), Summit Pictures & Samson Films. Sylvie’s Love (2020), Amazon Prime, Roman Holiday (1953), Paramount Pictures. Book covers from Never Too Little to Love by Jeanne Willis (2004) Candlewick, and The Other Bennet Sister by Janice Hadlow (2020) Henry Holt and Co., with description excerpts from the publisher. All images are presented for non-commercial illustrative purposes.

In Jane Austen’s classic romantic novel Pride and Prejudice, Mary is the plain, pious, overlooked middle sister. But in The Other Bennet Sister, Janice Hadlow shines a light on Mary. She’s an introvert in a family of extroverts, a disappointment to her mother and with little in common with her sisters. As she watches her sisters marry, it seems Mary is destined to be single forever. But will Mary find there is hope for her after all? This life-affirming, uplifting story of a woman finding her place in the world is a wonderfully warm and witty homage to Jane Austen.

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community | FRUIT OF THE VINE

CHRISTIANITY’S

iceberg

WHAT LIES BENEATH THE TIP

BY M I K E M A Z Y C K

Who do you think of when you think of the “greats” of the Christian faith?

If someone were to have asked me, for most of my Christian life, I would have rattled off names like Charles Spurgeon, C.S. Lewis, or Mother Theresa. I would have immediately thought of men and women who have written great books, preached to thousands, and influenced massive amounts of people. I would have thought about those who have sparked reformations and revivals. If asked about the giants of our current generation, I would have said names like John MacArthur, Francis Chan, or one of my favorites, John Piper! But as I have spent more time in the word and come to know our Lord more fully, He has begun to change my answer to that question.

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All those names I would have rattled off have something in common: They are known! Not just known — but well known! They are the names of those with huge platforms that have impacted millions of souls. They are the ones who have wielded great influence. As I thought about how I answered the question, I realized it revealed something within me. It revealed a subtle deception I had bought into.

The immediate inclination of my mind was to think of men and women that are known! Men and women with great followings. You could even say they have achieved a level of “fame” within the Church. I realized I had inadvertently brought the world’s ranking system into my theological perspective.

Why is this type of reasoning so dangerous to our walk with God? Because all true believers have a desire to make their Father proud! We long to hear those words, “Well done, thy good and faithful servant!” (Matthew 25:23) So, when someone asks us the question: Who do you view as the “greats” of the faith? And we immediately recall those who have acquired massive fame and influence. The logical correlation, even if we aren’t consciously aware of it, is that we must accomplish similar feats as those men and women to make our Father proud. Until we have accomplished some great task for the Lord, we have not truly stepped into our calling. We haven’t accomplished all that He has created us for. Yet, this notion directly contradicts the entire teaching of Scripture and the words of our Lord Himself.

Jesus told us plainly, numerous times, that the way to become great in the Kingdom is to become less in this life, not more. (Matthew 20:26-28) When Jesus arrived on the scene, what did John the Baptist say: “He must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3:30). John had no desire to exalt himself. In fact, his desire was just the opposite.

I have always loved these great words of G.D. Watson in his famous tract, Others May – You Cannot, “If God has called you to be really like Christ in all your spirit, He will draw you into a life of crucifixion and humility,...The Lord will let others be honored and put forward, and keep you hid away in obscurity because He wants to produce some choice fragrant fruit for His glory, which can be produced only in the shade…. God will let others be great, but He will keep you small.

He will let others do a great work for Him and get credit for it, but He will make you work and toil on without knowing how much you are doing; and then to make your work still more precious,

He will let others get the credit for the work you have done, and this will make your reward ten times greater when He comes.”

Am I saying it is wrong for us to have influence?

Certainly not! God chooses to exalt some of His servants. But that is not the norm. They are the exception. They are only the tip of an enormous iceberg that looms beneath the surface. The message of the world in our generation is to build a platform. Build our brand. Become an influencer.

EXALT YOURSELF! Our enemy certainly knows that there is quite possibly no greater power in the world than the ability to influence people, and he wants all men to desire this power! Maybe we should consider the words of Plato, “He who does not desire power is fit to hold it.” I would venture to say this is how God works as well; He exalts those who do not desire to be exalted.

Yet the world is not the only voice telling us that we must increase! This subtle and deceptive message comes from within the church as well. It sounds something like this: God has created you for some big purpose. He has some magnificent plan for your life — a “destiny” you were created for! These voices tell you that you need to dream bigger. You need to step into your calling. These messages sell lots of books. They create lots of hype at the latest conference. But are they the truth?

Does God have a plan for your life? Of course, He does. His word tells us that. (Ephesians 2:10) But what if that beautiful and great and magnificent plan is, as G.D. Watson so aptly put it, for you to live in obscurity for the rest of your life? What if that plan is for you to simply be a loving parent who lays down your life to raise your children — a loyal and dedicated spouse — a humble servant in some small and overlooked ministry at your local church? What if your calling — your destiny — is to live a life of silent and concealed obedience in your prayer closet? And to tell no one! What if His great plan is for you to decrease? To be unknown!

Who are the “greats” of the Christian faith?

I’ve now come to believe that is an unanswerable question. Most of their names will never be known in this life. I believe they were men and women who took Jesus at His word — they decreased. They sought no recognition. No following. No platform.

They lived in humble and simple obedience. They lived in a beautiful obscurity as unknown soldiers!

Visit MikeMazyck.com to read more of Mike’s writing.

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ON THE COVER

YOU DON’T HAVE TO LIVE WITH HEARTBURN SYMPTOMS “ It’s just a little heartburn.

It happens to ever yone.”

BY MEREDITH KNIGHT P H OTOS BY L A N D O N D AY

W

e’ve all experienced heartburn from time to time. No big deal, right? Actually, frequent heartburn could be a sign of a more serious problem, gastroesophageal reflux disease known as GERD. Do you fi nd yourself taking antacids on a regular basis? Have you had to give up foods you love because it’s not worth enduring the heartburn that follows? It may be time to consult with the GERD experts at the Methodist Heartburn Treatment Center.

WHAT IS GERD? Gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD is a chronic disorder characterized by regurgitation of stomach contents back into the esophagus. As one of the most commonly diagnosed digestive disorders, it’s said that up to 20% of the population suffers from GERD. Although acid reflux can happen to anyone from time to time, GERD is when it occurs more frequently and causes irritation. While the condition can prove to be uncomfortable, there are ways in which to manage the symptoms.

SURGICAL ASSOCIATES OF MANSFIELD OFFERS EXCELLENCE IN MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGERY FOR: • REFLUX/HEARTBURN • HERNIA REPAIR • APPENDICITIS

The most common symptoms of GERD are heartburn and regurgitation. However, GERD can also present itself as chest pain, eroding teeth, a chronic cough, a hoarse voice, or asthma symptoms. Patients may also have trouble swallowing or feel like something is stuck in your throat. If left untreated, the stomach acid present because of GERD can damage the esophagus or— even worse—it can lead to changes that increase your risk of developing esophageal cancer.

THE HEARTBURN CENTER CAN HELP

• VASCULAR ACCESS SURGERY

Surgical Associates of Mansfield has partnered with Methodist Mansfield Medical Center in launching the Methodist Heartburn Treatment Center. As a comprehensive digestive center, the Heartburn Center has the latest state-ofthe-art technology to test the function of your esophagus, measure acid levels, evaluate for precancerous conditions, and help diagnose, manage, and treat the causes of GERD. With the help of their expert staff, gastroenterologists, and surgeons, the Heartburn Treatment Center will guide you every step of the way. They offer highly personalized treatment plans, not just treating heartburn but treating the individual patient.

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Whether that treatment is medication or surgical procedures, the goal of the compassionate Heartburn Treatment Center staff is to treat your GERD symptoms and get you back to your life. Their nurse coordinator offers a single point of contact to manage your care, overseeing scheduling and completion of your evaluation, treatment, and follow-up care.

There’s no one-size-fits-all treatment for GERD. Each patient is uniquely different, so care is highly personalized. There are more important things to worry about today than whether you should eat that slice of pizza or have that cup of coffee. If you think you might have symptoms related to GERD, give the Heartburn Treatment Center a call and let them help you get back to enjoying life again.

SURGICAL ASSOCIATES OF MANSFIELD The board-certified surgeons of Surgical Associates of Mansfield are ready to help you make heartburn history. For many years now, they’ve led the way with minimally-invasive da Vinci robotic surgery, offering their patients less pain, less scarring, quicker recovery, and better results in surgery. In fact, they perform more robot-assisted operations than any other general surgery practice in North Texas.

The da Vinci Robotic Surgical System is revolutionary in that it assists skilled surgeons in performing complex and delicate procedures with greater accuracy and precision. And thanks to these innovations, incisions are a fraction of the size of traditional “open” surgery.

This means decreased trauma to the patient’s body, shorter recovery time, less risk of infection, less bleeding, less scarring, and far less downtime for the patient. The increased precision offered by the system allows Surgical Associates of Mansfield surgeons to perform even the most complex surgery with confidence and accuracy.

DYNAMIC SURGERY TEAM The mission of Surgical Associates of Mansfield is simple—to improve the lives of those they serve. Drs. A l e x a n d e r, T r u s s e l l , P a r c e l l s , Standerwick, and Cruz have performed thousands of successful surgeries restoring the quality of life to many of your DFW neighbors. Excellence is their standard in everything they do.

DR. THOMAS JOHN GOALEY Surgical Associates of Mansfield is always looking for new ways to meet the needs of their patients. They did just that recently by welcoming Trauma Surgeon Dr. Thoman Goaley to the SAM team. A graduate of Nebraska College of Medicine, Dr. Goaley is a critical care specialist with 35 years

Gary K Alexander, MD, FACS, CPE

Joshua Trussell, MD, FACS, CPE

Jeremy Parcells, MD, FACS

Andrew Standerwick, MD, FACS

Ivan Cruz, MD, FACS

Thomas John Goaley, MD

of experience. His specialties include critical care medicine, surgery, and trauma surgery. Dr. Goaley is a highly skilled and respected surgeon and this addition will continue to elevate the teams level of surgical, trauma, and critical care services available to our community.

EXPERIENCED SURGEONS SPECIALIZING IN MINIMALLY INVASIVE PROCEDURES Surgical Associates of Mansfield is a multi-specialty surgery group that services Mansfield, Arlington, Grand Prairie, Midlothian, Cedar Hill, Fort Worth, and other surrounding communities. The surgeons specialize in da Vinci robotic surgery for use in gallbladder, hernia, bariatric, reflux, and diverticulitis. Other conditions they treat include appendicitis, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn's disease.

They are committed to using evidencebased medicine and advances in medical technology to provide high quality of care for their patients.

Call (682) 518-8619 or speak with your primary-care physician about scheduling an appointment at Surgical Associates of Mansfield.

DON’T SUFFER IN SILENCE. THE H E A R T B U R N T R E AT M E N T C E N T E R O F F E R S : • The latest state-of-the art technologies to test the function of the esophagus, measure acid levels and evaluate for precancerous conditions • Personalized treatment programs • A highly compassionate staff • A single point of contact with a specially trained nurse coordinator who oversees scheduling and completion of your evaluation and treatment • An array of medical and surgical treatments that can be selected based on each patient's specific condition

2975 E AST BROAD STREE T, SUITE 200 MANSFIELD, TE X AS 76063 (682) 518-8619 | MANSFIELDSURGERY.COM

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community | TALK OF THE TOWN

COURTESY: THE LUKA DONČIĆ FOUNDATION | COOK CHILDREN’S MEDICAL CENTER PHOTOS: TRACY VAN SICKLE

A BIG HEART

LUKA DONČIĆ AND HIS FO U N D AT I O N P L A N N E D S P E C I A L H O L I D AY S U R P R I S E S

THIS YEAR, THE FOUR-TIME ALL-NBA FIRST TEAM AND ALL-STAR, WHO HAS BEEN WITH THE DALLAS MAVERICKS FOR SIX SEASONS, HELPED NEARLY 275 CHILDREN, TEENS, AND NEWBORN BABIES IN TWO COUNTRIES — HIS ADOPTED COMMUNITY IN NORTH TEXAS AND HIS HOMELAND, SLOVENIA.

Jordan Brand signature T-shirts. The students were from Dallas ISD’s Cedar Crest Elementary and Boude Story Middle School, Bishop Dunne Catholic School, and The Heroes Foundation.

My heart has always been with kids, and I know that being in a hospital, a youth center, or facing hard times during the holidays is really tough. I want to do whatever I can to make these kids’ days just a bit happier and better,” said Dončić.

COOK CHILDREN’S MEDICAL CENTER

THE LUKA DONČIĆ FOUNDATION EXPERIENCE Dončić hosted 50 students at the American Airlines Center as they watched the Dallas Mavericks play the LA Clippers. Dončić covered all the bases for the students, most of whom had never experienced an NBA game in person. He arranged bus transportation and a hearty meal at the concession stands and surprised the kids with a meet-and-greet before the game.

He also teamed up with a few “elves” from the NERF team and Jordan Brand. The youth also received Luka’s

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Dončić’s helpers were at Cook Children’s Medical Center in Fort Worth bearing a number of gifts. Hand-knit hats and blankets (created by a local knitting club) were distributed to the families of approximately 97 babies in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Mothers were given gift cards for manicures and pedicures (offered onsite at the Mirror Mirror Salon in the hospital), and a professional photographer was on hand to shoot family portraits destined to be treasured.

Recognizing the heavy financial strains families suffer during a baby’s lengthy hospitalization, Dončić’s foundation provides financial support to NICU families who need assistance paying mortgages, rent, utility bills, car payments, and more.

ARLINGTON/MANSFIELD/GRAND PRAIRIE

“The holiday season can be overwhelming and stressful for families with newborns in the NICU,” said Brittany McLaughlin, director of the NICU at Cook Children’s Medical Center — Fort Worth. “We are incredibly grateful to the Luka Dončić Foundation for bringing holiday cheer to our patients and families through their generous donations and financial support for our NICU families. This outpouring of kindness will undoubtedly provide them with joyful memories during this challenging time.”

YOUTH CARE CENTER MALČI BELIČ LJUBLJANA IN SLOVENIA The Luka Dončić Foundation hosted a holiday party and distributed gifts to the 68 children and adolescents currently living at the Youth Care Center Malči Belič Ljubljana. The young people were thrilled with the surprise, receiving headphones, gift cards, LEGO sets, and more. The center serves youth who have faced significant hardships in their young lives and have been admitted in order to grow socially, emotionally, and academically without the pressures of their often-tumultuous home lives.

“It means a great deal to us that every child in the Youth Care Center Malči Belič received a Christmas present — and a real one at that,” said the Center’s principal Tatjana Pleško Zalar. “All too often, our children have the experience of being forgotten by those who should have thought of them. That is why, more than the present itself, it means even more to the children that their role model, Luka Dončič, thought of them. They feel they can identify with him because, like Luka, these children also had to grow up very quickly. They want to be successful too, especially in the most important things that they mostly do not know – having a warm family.”

RESIDENTIAL AND COUNSELLING INSTITUTION VERŽEJ IN SLOVENIA The Foundation hosted a festive party and delivered holiday gifts to 56 children and adolescents at the center, which educates children and adolescents with emotional and behavioral problems, as well as those with learning disabilities. The youth also received a bounty of holiday treats — from games, gift cards, audio equipment, and more.

To l e a r n m o re , f o l l o w t h e L u ka D o n č i ć Fo u n d a t i o n on Instagram.

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ARLINGTON/MANSFIELD/GRAND PRAIRIE

community | TALK OF THE TOWN

COURTESY: METHODIST MANSFIELD MEDICAL CENTER

BABY NEW YEAR

METH OD IST M A NSFIEL D C ELEB RATES W I TH A B ABY B OY FOR M R. COL BY ADAIR AND MS . JULI E ROW E THE NEW YEAR BROUGHT MANSFIELD A NEW RESIDENT AT 1:10 AM ON JAN. 1. Julie Rowe gave birth to a healthy baby boy Clayton Bradley, at Methodist Mansfield Medical Center. Weighing in at 6 l bs. 4oz., and 19.25 inches long. Clayton was delivered by Dr. Heather Gardow and big brother Kayden and big sister Kayleigh were

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thrilled to welcome him into the family. Mr. Adair and Ms. Rowe are from Mansfield.

The new parents received a gift basket full of gifts and a new baby book, to help Clayton get a head start on reading as part of the Read to Me Program.

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2024

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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!

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Moving RELOCATING IN RETIREMENT AND HOW TO MANAGE LIFE IF YOU DO

BY KIM B E R LY B L A K ER

O

ne of the most significant changes retirees often consider is moving to a new city or state. The idea of relocating is an exciting way to embrace your new life. But it’s also a big decision you may want to consider carefully, especially if it means leaving friends and family behind.

LOVING AND AFFORDING WHERE YOU LIVE After you retire, you can better prioritize your preferences when deciding where to live. Do you want hiking trails, beach access, city living, or a place in the country?

Think about what you enjoy and the environment that makes you feel your best to help narrow your options.

Downsizing and finding an area with a lower cost of living could mean having smaller mortgage or rent payments, lower property taxes and insurance, and less maintenance and repairs, which could save you a bundle.

FAR FROM FAMILY AND FRIENDS One of retirees’ biggest hesitations about

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relocating is that it’ll take them away from their kids and grandchildren. Fortunately, there are many ways to keep your relationships strong, even from a distance.

Through social media, you can follow them to see regular updates, pictures, and videos of important things happening in their lives, and text messaging and phone or video calls can give you the feeling you’re right there with your family.

Talk to locals, particularly those at a similar stage of life, and get their perspective.

Realtors and librarians are both excellent resources for getting more information about what your potential new hometown has to offer.

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR MOVE

Once you’ve relocated, look for ways to get involved in your new community. Leaving your old home also means losing the relationships and routines you were used to. At the same time, as a recent retiree, you have much more time on your hands than you’re accustomed to.

If you do decide to relocate, the best thing you can do is go into it prepared, so it’s a great experience from the start. You’ll want to begin by figuring out precisely what you want out of your new home, town, and life to narrow down the places that make the most sense for you to move to. Even if you already have a dream location in mind, know why you want to live there and that it’ll meet your expectations for retired life.

Look for group classes that align with your interests or offer the opportunity to try something new. There are often classes specifically for senior populations where you can meet other people to build new relationships and enjoy retired life together. The local library, city recreation department, and social media are helpful resources for finding these classes and groups.

It’s a good idea to visit any new places you’re seriously considering relocating to and spend time there. Check out the city or town, including the more mundane aspects of it, like places where you’ll run errands.

Retirement is a time of change that can be both wonderful and daunting. So, whatever path you’re considering, weigh your options carefully to find the situation best suited for enjoying your new life.

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A ROOF OVER

your head P R OT E C T I N G Y O U R I N V E S T M E N T FOR YEARS TO COME

BY PET E ALFANO

Homeowners in Texas know what the long, hot, and dry summers can do to their houses’ foundations. Cracks and shifts can result in thousands of dollars in repairs. But how often do homeowners look up and consider the condition of that other essential structure — the roof? A damaged, neglected, and aging roof can also put a serious dent in your finances.

A new roof can last 20 years or more, but it is not maintenancefree. The blistering hot summers in Texas can cause shingles to shrink or crack. Spring and summer storms, which often feature hail and strong winds, can prematurely damage a roof.

And those ice storms and occasional snow events during winter also take a toll. One consolation is that any roof damaged beyond repair by Mother Nature is covered by a homeowner’s policy that will pay for a new roof after the deductible is paid.

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What isn’t covered is a roof that is simply old, has mold and mildew buildup, has been damaged by animals like mice and squirrels, or has generally been neglected.

And according to roofing experts, a new roof will cost a homeowner from $5,000 to $12,000 or more, depending on the size of the house and materials used.

If you’re buying a house that isn’t new, don’t rely on a home inspector’s report.

Call a roofing company and ask for an inspection. It’s also prudent to have periodic inspections to uncover any small issues that may become major problems if ignored.

For example, ever yone enjoys having mature trees to provide shade during the summer, but tree limbs overhanging the house are an accident waiting to happen.

Those limbs offer easy access to the roof and attic for animals. And a tree limb can break off and land on your roof in a storm, causing considerable damage. Even the leaves from an overhanging tree limb can lead to moisture buildup when they fall on a roof.

Get the gutters cleaned at least annually and more if needed. This allows rain to flow freely in the gutters to the downspouts.

Blocked g utters cause water to pool, warping the roof decking, which is usually made of wood, that provides the base for the shingles. For moss and mold buildup,

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get a professional to treat the roof with a solution that can be hosed off. However, experts caution against power-washing a roof because it may loosen the granules on the shingles and shorten the roof’s lifespan.

Make sure the flashing that is usually found around the chimney and vent pipes has not been bent or in any other way damaged, which would allow rain to seep into the exposed areas. That may lead to leaks in the attic or the ceiling, which should be avoided. Also, notice where the steamy, humid air that builds up when someone takes a shower or bath goes when the exhaust fan is running. In older homes, bathroom fans usually vent into the attic or crawl spaces, which increases the chances for mold and mildew buildup, thus causing roof damage from the inside out. Have a roofi ng company extend the venting to outside the house.

There is not much we can do when a Texas ice storm hits, but when the temperature moderates and the ice begins to melt, make sure the runoff isn’t blocked by ice in the gutters or downspouts.

As you can see, there is a lot you can do to get the maximum number of years from your roof. And it’s always good advice to hire roofing specialists rather than risking injury from inspecting and doing the work yourself.

A Matter of Substance A roof can be composed of composite asphalt metal, wood, clay, slate, synthetic rubber, or cement shingles. Most roofs are compost of asphalt shingles. Slate is the most expensive and is estimated to cost 10 times more than an asphalt roof. In Texas, a homeowner may want to consider a hail-resistant or impactresistant roof. That doesn’t mean hail-proof.

But these are usually reinforced asphalt shingles that can withstand all but rare baseball-sized hail. It will cost more to install, but a hail-resistant roof can lower your homeowner’s premium and pay for itself in about three years.

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WELCOMING

Wildlife Tips for Attracting Birds, Butterflies, and More

BY M I M I G R E E N W O O D K N I G H T

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I

t happened again this morning. I heard my husband “whisper” from the dining room, and I dashed in just in time to see a gray heron snatch up a fish from our pond and make quick work of it into his beak and down his gullet. Our wooded lot delights us with a parade of rabbits, turtles, opossums, raccoons, squirrels, deer, and even the occasional fox or coyote. And our bird feeders and pollinator gardens provide entertainment all year round.

There are many reasons to welcome wildlife into your yard’s ecosystem. Many landscape plants rely on pollinators to transport pollen for them. And if you’re growing edible crops, more pollinators mean a larger yield of fruits, vegetables, and herbs. And you don’t have to live in the country to welcome wildlife to your backyard.

If you build it, they will come. Knowing what to “build”— no matter how small your yard — can help you attract and satiate birds, bees, butterflies, and more. And now’s a great time to get started, even if it’s just developing your game plan.

H-appy Hunting Here are some fun apps to help you identify the wildlife you attract.

Seek by iNaturalist

Seek is a great all-around nature app (and free) that helps you identify plants, trees, fungi, birds, butterf lies, insects, spiders, and other critters in your yard or on excursions. And it’s crazy accurate!

Merlin Bird ID

I love using this free app from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology as I drink my morning coffee on the deck. It not only identifies any birds calling around me but lights up each time a bird calls again to help me identify which bird is making which call.

PictureThis

All wildlife needs four fundamental things to survive: food, water, cover, and places to reproduce and raise their young. Start by considering what you’d like to attract to your yard. Then research their preferences on sites such as BirdsandBlooms.org and BoundbyBeauty.org.

While the PictureThis app does cost $29.99, Rutgers University recently ranked it best plant-ID apps. The app identifies plants and offers an image gallery, a care guide, a list of benefits to wildlife, and sometimes even a snippet of a poem about the plant.

If it appears unhealthy, it may also offer a diagnosis of the problem.

Choose plants with pollen and nectar if you’re hoping to attract bees, while hummingbirds and butterflies are only interested in nectar (yet pay dividends by transferring pollen as they forage). Some plants containing pollen and nectar are coneflower, black-eyed Susan, aster, and zinnia. Flowering herbs, such as lavender, are also a lovely addition.

Leps is crowdsourcing for butterf ly geeks.

The free app is a collection of butterf ly images with information about the taxonomy and life stages of each. Users can also contribute their own images of butterf lies and moths they encounter.

Leps by Fieldguide

Different wildlife is attracted to different flower shapes and colors, too. Bees like white, blue, and yellow, while most birds prefer white, red, and orange, and butterflies go ga-ga for red, yellow, and purple. Butterflies and bees prefer flat, open blooms with large petals they can land on and shorter nectar tubes, while tubular, trumpetshaped flowers like honeysuckle and lobelia attract those glorious hummingbirds. The website WildOnes.org can help you choose native plants most attractive to our native wildlife and noninvasive to our area.

Whether you’re growing in pots or flowerbeds, offer your plantings ample sun, water, and protection from harsh winds. Stagger blooms throughout the year, so there’s always something for wildlife to enjoy. You can also stagger the heights of your plants and, to appeal to a diverse audience, plant in groups of three or four rather than a single plant type. Consider planting a mix of perennials, annuals, and edibles. (Herbs are great fun!)

Don’t forget to provide a shallow water source for wildlife to drink and bathe in. And include some shelters, such as birdhouses. Once you’ve put out the welcome mat, invest in some binoculars and a field guide or ID app, sit back, and enjoy the show.

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TIPS FOR GARDENING WITH RAISED PLANTER BOXES

BY ANNETTE BROOKS

pring planting is right around the corner, and now is an ideal time to start planning a vegetable garden. Growing vegetables and fruits is healthy, fun, and an innately gratifying way to help you connect with nature. Plus, research suggests that gardening routines like watering, weeding, and harvesting help ease stress, promote relaxation, and can positively impact depression and anxiety.

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EASY RAISED PLANTER BOX GARDENING There’s nothing quite like using your very own just-picked produce in a home-cooked meal or salad. So, why don’t more of us have vegetable gardens? First, there’s hard clay soil in many parts of Texas. Digging up a garden plot with this soil and mixing in bags of fertile topsoil is a backbreaking job. Because of this, standard raised beds are popular, but you must prepare the area first, install the raised beds, and then fill them with a soil mix. You may also decide to place fencing around an in-ground or raised bed to keep out ground-dwelling creatures that love to eat your crops and dig up the dirt.

My choice is to use versatile, easy-toassemble raised cedar planter boxes.

Standing on legs, the boxes are almost waist high, which eliminates bending over and getting onto your knees to plant and tend to your garden. Rabbits can’t hold a nibble-fest with a raised planter box, and soil-born fungal diseases and weeds aren’t a concern.

Equally important is the ability to place them anywhere you have the right amount of sunlight, such as a patio or around a pool area. I’ve arranged my raised planter boxes along the edges of our deck, along with stands filled with pots of herbs and flowers.

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HOW TO CHOOSE RAISED PLANTER BOXES Raised planter boxes are an investment you can use for several years with just a little care. Look for planters with sturdy, rust-proof legs and boxes that are made from untreated, naturally rot-resistant cedar.

Cedar provides great insulation for soil and plant roots and offers superior drainage and soil aeration compared to metal and plastic boxes.

The size and quantity of raised planter boxes you choose depends on your available outdoor space and how ambitious you are about growing your own produce. Keep in mind that size will also influence what you grow. Certain veggies take up a good deal of space.

If planted too close, they may compete for resources like water and sunlight. Boxes can be as small as 18 by 18 inches and as big as 18 by 72 inches or larger.

And pay attention to the depth.

Root vegetables like carrots, for example, need a container that’s a minimum of 12 inches deep.

Potatoes need at least 15 inches of depth for optimal growth.

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RAISED PLANTER BOX ACCESSORIES Some companies offer handy accessories like arched and pivoting trellises and selfwatering planter inserts. If your planter doesn’t automatically come with a water-permeable box liner, include one in your order to avoid soil washing out and making a mess.

You may also want to get custom-fit waterproof, UV-resistant covers with breathable pockets to protect your planters over the winter.

In the spring, using a custom-fit greenhouse cover over a planter can extend the growing season, allowing you to plant seeds and seedlings earlier.

WHAT’S THE BEST MONTH TO PLANT A VEGETABLE GARDEN?

GET GROWING Now that you know more about raised planter box gardening, compare various options online and then make a choice.

Before your planter arrives, pick up enough potting soil to fill your planter a few inches from the top. If you’re starting seeds indoors before transplanting them into your planter, there are numerous online guides, including GardenBetty.com/the-no-brainer-guide-tostarting-seeds-indoors/ and Almanac.com/ content/starting-seeds-indoors.

Planting seeds or transplanting seedlings at the correct time is essential, and the answer depends on what part of Texas you live in. According to Urban Farmer’s Texas vegetable planting calendar (UFSeeds.com), the last frost date in Dallas is around 3/21, and the first is around 11/14. In Houston, the last frost is around 3/1 and the first frost is 11/29.

Determine your USA plant hardiness zone at UFSeeds.com/texas-vegetableplanting-calendar and review the colorcoded planting time charts in your zone for a wide variety of plants. There are two growing seasons in Texas— spring and fall — for many vegetables, so you can maximize the use of your beds and enjoy garden-fresh veggies for many months throughout the year.

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RUG r e a d y THE ART OF SELECTING SIZES AND PLACEMENT

Rugs serve as the unsung heroes of interior design, effortlessly transforming spaces and tying together elements to create a harmonious ambiance. However, mastering the art of choosing the right rug sizes and placing them in various rooms can be a game-changer in elevating your home’s charm. Let’s delve into the nuances of rug selection and placement for different areas within your abode.

LIVING ROOM ELEGANCE In the hear t of your home, rugs play a pivotal role in defi ning seating areas and setting the tone for relaxation and conversation. The rule of thumb here is to ensure

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the rug accommodates all front legs of the furniture, be it a plush sofa, elegant armchairs, or a chic coffee table ensemble.

This cohesive touch creates a sense of unity and comfort. Alternatively, a smaller rug can be centered amidst the seating arrangement, allowing for a chic border of f looring to frame the area without overwhelming the space.

DINING ROOM SOPHISTICATION When it comes to the dining area, the rug’s size takes center stage in facilitating a refined dining experience. A rug should extend generously beyond the table’s edges, ensur ing that chairs remain comfortably placed even when pulled out. This ensures both aesthetic harmony and practicality during delightful dinner parties or cozy family meals.

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BEDROOM BLISS Ah, the sanctuary of sleep! Rugs in the bedroom serve as cozy companions, especially when placed strategically around the bed. For a lavish look, opt for a rug that extends beyond the sides and foot of the bed, offering a plush surface for your feet to land on in the morning. Alternatively, smaller rugs fl anking the bed or placed at its foot can infuse charm and comfort without dominating the entire floor space.

MASTERFUL PLACEMENT Proper rug placement is an art form that elevates the allure of any room.

Centering the rug within the space, whether aligned with the room’s focal point or the bed frame in the bedroom, creates a visual balance that captivates the eye. Remember, the goal is to harmonize the rug’s positioning with the room’s layout, fostering a sense of equilibrium and cohesion.

LAYERING DELIGHTS Dare to be bold and adventurous? Try the trend of rug layering. Combine rugs of varying textures, sizes, or patterns to craft a visually arresting statement. Placing a smaller rug atop a larger one can delineate specific zones, like a charming reading nook or a captivating accent area, adding depth and personality to your space.

By understanding the dimensions of your space, furniture arrangement, and personal style, you can curate an atmosphere that exudes sophistication, comfort, and visual balance. Embrace the power of rugs — they’re not merely floor coverings but rather artistic elements that weave together your home’s aesthetic allure.

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Sweep CLEAN

A Room-by-Room Guide to Freshening Up Your Home this Spring

BY KIM BLAKER

T H E B A S I C S – FO R E V E RY R O O M I N YO U R H O M E • Dust wall and ceiling light fixtures, then remove globes and wash them out.

• Empty cabinets, drawers, and organizers, then wipe them inside and out.

• Dust ceiling fan blades.

• Wash windows and sills, and don’t forget the tracks.

• Remove cobwebs with a vacuum and brush attachment.

• Vacuum upholstered furniture from top to bottom and under cushions, paying particular attention to creases and crevices where dust and grunge build up.

• Remove and wash window coverings and dust the top of curtain rods and window trim.

• Remove wall hangings, knick-knacks, and other décor, and rinse in warm soapy water.

• Vacuum lampshades with a soft bristle attachment.

• Wash doors and knobs and the dust that collects on top of doors and entryway trim.

• Unplug electrical cords and wipe with a damp rag to remove built-up dust.

• Wipe walls with an all-purpose cleaning solution.

Touch up scuffs and chips with paint.

• Wipe baseboards, then vacuum carpet edges with a narrow attachment.

• Clean switch plates.

• Vacuum and mop under furniture and other stationary items.

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K I T C H E N — C O N TA M I N AT I O N Z O N E S • Dust the top of kitchen cabinets.

• Remove grease and grime from small kitchen appliances.

• Clean stove, oven, refrigerator, and dishwasher inside and out.

• Wipe the built-up grunge on the top of the gar bage disposal with a rag, add ice and lemon slices, and run the disposal to clean and freshen the blades.

• Scrub countertops with a mild abrasive or degreaser.

• Wipe the table and chairs from top to bottom.

BEDROOM ODDS’ N ENDS • Remove items from under the bed, dust off storage containers, and dispose of clutter.

• Vacuum under beds using attachments.

• Eliminate unwanted articles from drawers.

T H E B AT H R O O M — S C O U R A N D D I S I N F E C T • Remove and launder shower curtain and liner, bathmat , toilet cover, and rugs.

• Scour tub and shower from top to bottom, inside and out. Use a toothbrush to remove mold, mildew, and soap scum accumulation around the drain, faucet , knobs, and showerhead.

• Clean glass shower doors inside and out , including the track.

• Spray exterior of toilets with a sanitizing solution and wipe down.

• Remove the toilet seat , and clean the bolts where odors linger.

• Use a deodorizing solution on the baseboard and wall behind the toilet.

• Store odds and ends in same-size boxes or containers for easy stacking.

• Remove oil, paint , and other stains from concrete with trisodium phosphate. Be sure to follow directions carefully and protect the skin and eyes.

O U T D O O R S — D I R T, D I R T E V E R Y W H E R E • Hose down siding and windows.

• Wash screens with soapy water, then rinse with a hose.

• Scrub doormats with an all-purpose cleaner and a brush, then rinse.

• Spray off patio furniture, then wipe clean.

• Clean light fixtures.

• Remove lint from dryer vent and nests and hives that have formed on or near the house.

• Wash toilet brush container and wastebasket.

• Scrub sink and countertop, including grooves around the drain, faucet , and knobs.

• Dust the top edge of mirrors, towel racks, and other accessories.

C L O S E T S — T H E A LW AY S F O R G O T T E N • Dust shelving, brackets, and rods.

• Organize shelves and eliminate unneeded items.

• Remove clothing you haven’t worn in two years.

• Dust shoe racks and rarely worn shoes.

AT T I C A N D G A R A G E — C L U T T E R H A V E N S • Install racks, shelving, and hooks, then organize and eliminate clutter.

• Dust shelving and stored items.

Time-Saving Tips • Gather cleaning tools and supplies before you get started. Have plenty of rags, an old toothbrush, q-tips, toothpicks, cleaning solutions, spray bottle, step stool or small ladder, and vacuum and attachments.

• Work room-by-room for efficiency and to avoid duplicating or missing tasks.

• Work around the room from top to bottom.

• Play music as you clean. It may not save time, but it will make time pass more quickly.

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HOW TO PLANT

fruit trees T R A N S P L A N T T I P S T O E S TA B L I S H AND PUSH THEM TO PRODUCTION

BY ADAM RUSSELL

E s t a b li s hin g f r uit tre e s in Te x a s takes ef for t , but these time-tested t i p s f r o m a Te x a s A &M A g r i L i f e Extension Service expert can guide the way. Larry Stein, Ph.D., professor and Regents Fellow in the Texas A&M Department of Horticultural Sciences and AgriLife Extension fruit specialist, Uvalde, says planning now will help homeowners choose the right tree and take the correct steps to establish and care for it through the first critical years of its life.

TIMING IS EVERYTHING, AND WINTER IS THE TIME TO PLANT W hen it comes to fruit trees, Stein said to plant in late December through February. The key is that trees be totally dormant at planting. Planting trees in early winter helps them establish some root growth before they break dormancy in the spring, Stein said. That initial root growth can make a big difference during harsh summer conditions. “When people plant their fruit trees in the early spring, they may struggle because they haven’t initiated good root growth to help them absorb moisture and nutrients during a stressful summer,” he said.

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DECIDING WHAT FRUIT TREE TO PLANT Picking the right tree variety for your location is the first and most important decision when transplanting fruit trees.

Peaches are the most universally planted fruit tree in Texas, Stein said. Apples are hard to grow in Texas, and pears are the easiest.

“I suggest using the Aggie horticulture fruit site (Aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/ fruit-nut/) when choosing varieties,” he said. “It has comprehensive fact sheets on different crops and gives a variety of recommendations based on locations.”

Once you’ve narrowed the options, visit a reputable tree nursery and choose a medium-sized tree — 3 to 5 feet tall — so the recommended cutback at planting is less severe. Stein prefers planting bare-root fruit trees rather than container trees.

“They’re less expensive and will grow better. The challenge is that bare-root trees are getting harder to find. Inspect the tree for injury or signs of stress.

Check for gum coming out of the tree, any injuries to the tree’s cambium layer, or other issues like crown gall. Cut the

february 2024

tree’s roots to make sure they are a healthy white, and look for nodules, which could be root rot nematodes. Make sure the roots are not dry or wrapped around the tree’s base, which can lead to root girdling. If you find damage once you get it home or discover it’s irreversibly root bound or has other potential issues, take it back. Don’t accept a subpar tree,” Stein said.

WHERE TO PLANT FRUIT TREES Stein said that soil that does not drain well can become a problem for fruit trees. So, low spots or areas that stay saturated easily are not good transplant locations. “You don’t want a spot where water ponds,” he said. “That can drown the tree.”

Stein said soil berms can be built up encircling the tree about 18 to 24 inches from the tree’s base to keep water at bay.

But low spots, even if they drain well, are not recommended because cold air settles there, Stein said. The tree’s location, which is related to the property layout, is another consideration.

Stein recommends placing the tree on the north side of the property so it stays cold during dormancy and dormant longer. Plant fruit trees where they will avoid late-day sun, which can contribute to earlier bud breaks.

“We want the tree to stay dormant as long as possible to avoid tree or fruit damage from any potential late-spring freezes,” he said.

HOW TO PLANT FRUIT TREES Before planting, knock off the soil around the tree’s roots, which, in container trees, typically includes peat moss and perlite or a light mix. Bare-root trees will not have any soil around the roots. Inspect the roots and cut them back if they are wrapped around the root ball to prevent the tree from becoming rootbound.

Dig a hole the size of the root system, typically 12-18 inches, Stein said. Dig it deep enough to plant the tree so that its root collar — the distinct line where the stem meets the root ball — is level with the ground. “There is a distinct color change at the root collar,” he said. “You don’t want it to be any deeper than that.”

Fill in the hole with the original soil, Stein said. Water the tree well to settle the soil around the roots, and then cut the tree back hard.

Cut pecan trees back to 42 inches with all side branches removed to the stem.

Fruit trees should be cut back to 18 to 24 inches, and all limbs cut back to the stem.

“It goes against some recommendations, but the reduced root system and the cutback will force the tree to go into growth mode,” he said.

WEED AND GRASS FREE ZONE Stein recommends clearing weeds and grass from around the fruit trees for at

least the fi rst five years. This reduces competition for water and nutrients critical for the tree’s development.

Kill out or manually remove weeds and grass within a 2 to 3-foot diameter circle around the tree, he said.

“Use glyphosate or another herbicide that will kill all grasses and broadleaf weeds to the root,” he said. “It doesn’t matter how you do it. But you want bare soil around the tree to cut down competition for the tree.”

Make sure the herbicide does not contact tree leaves, he said.

Stein said grow tubes or aluminum foil could be used to keep the herbicide off the tree’s trunk when chemicals are applied. After the first year, mulch can be added within the circle to help weed control.

DON’T KILL IT WITH KINDNESS After proper transplanting, cutback and weed eradication, it’s important to leave the tree alone until it starts to actively grow, Stein said.

“It’s impor t ant to just let the tree do its thing. Most people kill trees with kindness at that point,” he said.

“Watering is probably the No. 1 cause of death. Trees don’t need much water while inactive. They can go 4 to 6 weeks without water when dormant, and rain usually takes care of that.”

When the tree begins actively growing, keep it well-watered — typically once a week with 1 inch of water, depending on soil type, Stein said.

“When the tree is first planted, the water needs to be placed right around the tree,” he said. “As the tree grows, the roots move away from the tree. We think the best roots start at the canopy

edge or drip line and go out about one and a half times the height of the tree.”

FERTILIZE, FERTILIZE, FERTILIZE Water the fertilizer in 12 to 18 inches from the trunk of the tree, he said.

“The soil berm and weed-free zone can be useful to let you know where to spread the fertilizer,” he said. “You might want to put the fertilizer outside the berm to make sure it’s not too close to the trunk.”

Stein said to continue to water and weed around the tree and ramp up the fertilization regimen in year two with a cup of fertilizer in March, April, May, and June. In year three, double the fertilizer regimen with 2 cups of ammonium sulfate in those months to push the tree’s growth.

“Follow this regimen, and you will be amazed at the tree you can grow in three years,” he said.

Provide a half pound of 21% fertilizer per inch of trunk diameter at bud break in subsequent years for the life of the tree, Stein said. Give the tree another half-pound of fertilizer in May if it is showing a fruit crop. Do not apply the second round of fertilizer if the tree is not showing fruit.

“There are variety-specific training and pruning regimens we recommend in the fact sheets, and you’ll need to be aware of potential seasonal disease and pest issues, but that is a good start to well-established fruit trees in Texas.”

Courtesy: Texas A&M AgriLife Photos: Laura McKenzie and Tamara Garza

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wellness

HEART-HEALTHY

pregnancy 7 WA Y S T O M O N I T O R A N D MANAGE HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE

It’s important to know that women with preeclampsia are more likely to develop HBP and diabetes later in life.

Research also shows having the condition increases the odds of heart failure, especially if preeclampsia happens in more than one pregnancy.

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A common misconception is high blood pressure (HBP), or hypertension, rarely affects women. However, nearly half of all adults with HBP are women.

While HBP isn’t directly related to gender, a woman’s life stages, like pregnancy, pregnancy prevention (birth control), and menopause, can increase the risk of developing HBP. HBP is an important sign that preeclampsia, or severe high blood pressure during pregnancy, may be developing, and testing may be needed to check both the mother and baby.

Not all women have noticeable symptoms beyond high blood

wellness | HEART HEALTHY PREGNANCY

pressure, but when they do occur, they may include headaches, vision changes, abdominal pain, or rapid swelling (edema).

Black women of childbearing age are more than twice as likely to have uncontrolled blood pressure than their white counterparts, according to research featured in a Go Red for Women issue of the “Journal of the American Heart Association.” Additionally, food insecurity, or lack of access to adequate healthy food, which is one of the social factors that may affect HBP risk, is higher among Hispanic and Black women compared to white women.

While delivery of the child is the only cure for preeclampsia, which affects 1 in 25 pregnancies in the United States, management of the condition is based on several factors, including the overall health of the mother and the progress of the disease. Symptoms usually subside within six weeks of delivery.

To help ensure a heart-healthy pregnancy, consider these tips.

Visit a healthcare provider regularly. A health care professional will monitor you and your baby at regular prenatal visits — monthly until 28 weeks. Then, the frequency will increase bi-weekly or weekly as the due date approaches. There is no proven way to prevent preeclampsia or test to predict the condition. Follow your health care team’s recommendations and check blood pressure and urine levels of protein regularly, if advised.

Track blood pressure at home. The American Heart Association recommends using a validated automatic, cuff-style bicep monitor to take readings. Avoid caffeine or exercise within 30 minutes before measuring and empty your bladder at least 5 minutes beforehand. Sit with your back straight and

supported with your arm supported on a flat surface and the upper arm at heart level. Place the cuff directly above the bend in the elbow, and don’t take the measurement over your clothes. Measure at the same time daily, such as morning and evening, and record the results to share with your doctor.

Take medication as prescribed. Some medications, including some heart medicines, may be risky for you or your fetus during pregnancy. Talk to your doctor about what’s safe, what to do if you miss a dose, and other drugs or supplements that may help improve or maintain your health. Never stop medications without approval.

Manage blood pressure through lifestyle modification.

Limiting salt intake and getting regular physical activity can help keep blood pressure in a healthy range.

Reduce stress and manage anxiety. Some ways to calm down include meditating, spending time in nature, and enjoying other hobbies.

Monitor weight gain. Doctors will advise you how much weight is safe to gain based on your body mass index (BMI) before pregnancy. Normal-weight women with a BMI of 18.524.9 who are pregnant with one baby are typically expected to gain 25-35 pounds.

Avoid unhealthy habits. While pregnant, do not smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs.

Learn more about how HBP can impact pregnancy and how to track and take control of your blood pressure at heart. org/health-topics/high-blood-pressure.

Courtesy: Family Features and the American Heart Association Photos: Getty Images

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aesthetics

GUM f i t n e s s K E E P YO U R M O U T H I N T I P - TO P S H A P E

BY PET E ALFANO

There is a famous saying that “the eyes are the window to your soul.” And while not as romantic, medical experts might say that your gums are a window to your health. Oral health, or lack of it, may be an indication of or precursor to heart disease, complications during pregnancy, diabetes, respiratory disease, and even dementia.

While medical science is further identifying cause and effect, at the very least, periodontal (gum) disease can lead to tooth loss.

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aesthetics | GUM FITNESS

Planning For Oral Care

In its early stages, gum disease is called gingivitis. As the Mayo Clinic reports, a buildup of plaque — a sticky substance containing bacteria — on your teeth can infect your gums. And infected gums cause the bone-supporting teeth to weaken, which can eventually cause tooth loss.

Maintaining the health of your gums and teeth is not difficult, but it takes a commitment that people often find challenging to keep. First, visit your dentist at least twice a year. Obviously, you want to brush your teeth at least twice daily for two minutes, allocating 30 seconds each to the upper and two lower quadrants of your mouth. If possible, use an electronic toothbrush, which is more effective than manual brushing. Use dental f loss to dislodge food stuck between teeth. And if you invest in a Waterpik, it adds another layer of cleansing. Finally, rinse with a mouthwash that does not contain alcohol.

The process takes about five or six minutes, which doesn’t seem like too much to ask.

The signs of periodontal disease may not be as apparent at first. So, look for dark red gums, bleeding when you brush or f loss, and pockets forming from gum recession that expose more of the tooth at the gum line.

Bad breath, tooth sensitivity, difficulty chewing, and loosening teeth are also warning signs. It is worth noting that smoking contributes to periodont al disease. And people with osteoporosis, which causes brittle and weaker bones,

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must make their dentist aware of the condition because it may affect the bone density around the tooth.

T here are treatments, including nonsurgical and more complex surgical procedures, that can alleviate gum loss.

In the early stages of periodontal disease, a dentist may prescribe more frequent cleanings done by a dental hygienist. For an advanced case, you may be referred to a periodontist who specializes in gum care.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, the simplest treatment is oral or topical antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria eroding the gums. A laser or ultrasonic device can be used to eliminate bacteria and tartar buildup below the gumline, and the laser may also be used to selectively remove the diseased, inflamed gum tissue.

Deep cleaning will smooth the roots under the gum line, eliminating harmful bacteria. This procedure is usually done in multiple visits and requires the patient to be anesthetized.

Surgery is for severe periodontal disease.

Soft tissue grafts from the roof of the mouth build up and reinforce g ums.

Bone grafts use bits of a patient’s bone or synthetic material. Flap surgery enables the periodontist to temporarily lift the gum away from the tooth to allow for more complete cleaning or root scaling.

There are other procedures, too, but if it all sounds daunting, the best course is to take care of your gums now and avoid the unpleasant consequences.

Whether you have an employer-provided health care plan, traditional Medicare, private Medicare Advantage, or self-funded health care, it is imperative that policyholders know if or how much covers dental care and whether the coverage goes beyond routine visits and cleanings.

For example, while more than 90% of private Medicare Advantage plans now cover more than routine dental care, the coverage may still leave you with a sizeable bill for periodontal visits and procedures. Individuals and those with a family may want to subscribe to a separate dental plan that usually offers tier coverage with the premium based on what is covered.

There are still co-pays and sometimes a year of waiting if you have a pre-existing condition, but oral health care can be expensive for anyone who has a minimal amount of coverage or none. HealthCare.gov and the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS. Texas.gov/dental-health) are helpful websites to search for dental plans.

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aesthetics

INVEST IN y o u r s e l f N E W Y E A R S E RV I C E S TO B R I N G O U T T H E N E W YO U

BY ANNET T E BRO O KS

One of the best New Year’s resolutions you can make is to invest in yourself, and one of the easiest to keep is committing to medical-grade aesthetic procedures or plastic surgery. All it takes to get started is deciding what you want to change or improve and then scheduling a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon and aesthetic team you trust.

For inspiration, we’ve identified five popular services for the New Year to bring out the new you.

FULL FACIAL REJUVENATION Looking naturally youthful versus “done” usually requires an individualized treatment plan that combines services to create the results you desire. For example, a facelift will address lax skin and wrinkles, and the results can last for years. But it won’t add youthful volume back into your cheeks, temples, or underneath your eyes or improve your skin tone and radiance. Combining a facelift with noninvasive or minimally invasive procedures can address all these issues and more.

HAIR REPLACEMENT Chances are, your life’s ambitions don’t include always wearing a ball cap, searching for hairstyles that might camoufl age thinning hair, or wearing a hairpiece or wig. Now, you can do something about it without undergoing painful old-school hair replacement techniques that involve a substantial lateral scar across the back of your scalp. The minimally invasive Automated FUE (follicular unit extraction) process extracts follicles from areas where your hair is growing and transplants them into thin or balding spots. Results include a naturallooking hairline and a faster recovery.

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MOMMY MAKEOVER Pregnancy, weight gain loss, and aging take a toll on a woman’s body. We’re often left with saggy skin, stubborn pockets of fat, and overall changes in body shape that diet and exercise alone can’t correct. If you’re ready to get your sexy back, consult with an experienced plastic surgeon about a Mommy Makeover. The set of procedures used to sculpt your body may include a breast lift, breast augmentation, tummy tuck, liposuction, and more. If you’re wondering if a Mommy Makeover is worth it, according to RealSelf’s regularly updated patient reviews, 95% of patients say yes.

NOSE SURGERY Do you find yourself correcting the shape of your nose with picture editing software after taking a selfie? Or, with age, have you noticed that your nose appears different than it used to? Whatever your concern, rhinoplasty in the hands of a gifted plastic surgeon will sculpt your nose to fit your facial structure. Depending on your needs, it can also make breathing through your nose much easier.

TATTOO REMOVAL Some things don’t age well, including tattoos. It’s reported that one in four Americans regrets a tattoo. If you’re one of the millions of people who wish they could erase a tattoo, you’re in luck. New-generation lasers can remove tattoos of the most common colors, clearing pigments efficiently and effectively.

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FIVE TIPS FOR PARENTS TO SUPPORT THEIR FUTURE ALL-STARS

S

ome of the fondest childhood memories for many people include practicing sports, game days, and teammates turned friends.

Parents hoping to provide their children with similar experiences can look to organized youth sports as a perfect outlet for expending energy, all while learning valuable life lessons like teamwork , goal setting, humbly celebrating victories, and bouncing back from defeat .

In fact , sports can provide a multitude of benefits for young athletes. From improving physical health to gaining valuable social and leadership skills, team-oriented activities give kids a way to explore their own interests and have a little fun.

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KIDS TO 1. ENCOURAGE TRY MULTIPLE SPORTS If your little ones are first-time athletes, signing up for multiple sports exposes them to a variety of options. They can navigate their interests and discover their unique talents through each sport ’s challenges. For example, some require more endurance, like soccer and basketball, while others call on coordination and balance, such as dance or baseball. Once they ’ve experienced a few activities, allowing them to choose which sports to continue participating in provides a sense of independence.

ATHLETES WITH 2. OUTFIT THE PROPER GEAR Each sport and activity have equipment requirements, ranging from simple (a ball and a net) to complex (helmets, pads, bases, and more).

Proper footwear is necessary, whether it ’s cleats for outdoor events or shoes with ankle support for a sport like basketball. Remember, safety comes first , which is why your children may need helmets, shin guards, knee pads, or other protective equipment . Be sure to talk to coaches or league coordinators about what equipment is provided and what you may need to purchase (or borrow).

YOURSELF 3. FAMILIARIZE WITH THE SPORTS While you don’ t need to be a hallof-fame coach to enjoy your kids’ events, understanding the rules and regulations can help you be a more informed parent . Plus, it shows your little athletes you’re taking an interest in their activities when you can discuss the game together. If you’re able, one of the best ways to learn is to attend a local professional, semi-professional, college, or even high school game with your children so everyone can get in on the fun together.

POSTGAME CLEANUP A BREEZE 4. MAKE Many people don’ t know sweat can lead to bacteria,

which secrete acids with a distinct , stinky odor. Just think about all the bacteria living in a gym bag after your children’s big games. Behind a team of bacteria-fighting scientists, Lysol Labs is on a mission to educate parents and their young athletes that bacteria can be the source of their stinky clothes.

A GOOD SPORT 5. BE Teaching a child sportsmanlike conduct is crucial for fostering respect , resilience, and fair play.

Emphasizing values of graciousness in victory and defeat , instilling teamwork , and honoring opponents cultivates integrity. Encouraging empathy towards others’ efforts and displaying good sportsmanship forms the foundation for lifelong character development .

“A single stinky sock can contain more than 8 million bacteria,” said Callum Couser, Reckitt Research and Development Operations Manager, Hygiene. “ This program was created to show parents the number of bacteria in their kids’ clothes and how to eliminate 99.9% of the odor-causing bacteria on stinky clothes during the summer sports season.”

You can strike out stink with a laundry additive like Lysol Laundry Sanitizer, which kills 99.9% of odor-causing bacteria on laundry when used as directed and helps simplif y your postgame routine. It contains 0% bleach and even works in cold water.

Cour tesy: Family Features and Lysol.com

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adventure

Cadillac Ranch

TRAVELING

route 66 ALL ABOUT YOUR AMERICAN RETRO ROAD TRIP

BY C H R I S T I N A GARCIA

Photos: Nick Fox, Sue Smith, mysh, Andrew Bayda, Deatonphotos, Travelview, StockPhotoAstur, Get Lost Mike via stock.adobe.com, Judson McCranie Creative Commons.

A medley of unconnected roads, Route 66 was created to link rural lanes with one main artery and vice versa. It placed Chicago, Illinois, and Santa Monica, California, on a chain joined by rolling wheels and, eventually, drivable pavement. The new road would mean no more dead ends or lost paths. And 12 years later, New Deal policies fi nally saw the 2,400-mile stretch of Route 66 surfaced by men previously out of work during the Great Depression.

Immortalized in popular song, literature, and fi lm, Route 66 felt better than other east-west trails — Route 40, for example — because of the relatively nicer weather. That natural blessing created a corridor of fi nancial success for restaurants, shops, and service stations catering to travelers, but times changed. Over the decades, other highways were built with more lanes, and Route 66 became obsolete. Although it was decommissioned in 1985, nostalgia trippers still sail by, stopping at the roadside diners and quirky attractions from another time. Antiques, art galleries, quirky installations, and ghost towns draw travelers every year too.

Not all parts of the road are still in service, and others are now private property, so plan ahead with a current map if you’re looking to travel the entirety of the famous Route 66.

ROUTE 66 IN POPULAR CULTURE A symbol of hardship and opportunity for migrants traveling from the Dust Bowl to California, Route 66 became “Mother Road” in John Steinbeck’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, The Grapes of Wrath.

Nat King Cole sent “(Get Your Kicks On) Route 66” up the charts in 1946. The song was written by Bobby Troup, a former pianist for Tommy Dorsey, and later recorded by Chuck Berry, The Rolling

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adventure | TRAVELING ROUTE 66

Blue Swallow Motel

Stones, and even Depeche Mode.

Woody Guthrie wrote “The Ballad of Tom Joad,” named for a character in Steinbeck’s novel, in 1940, the year after the book’s publication.

Cars, Disney Pixar’s 2006 film, was based on the director’s travels across Route 66. A few decades earlier, Peter Fonda directed Ea sy Rider, a film released in the summer of 1969 after shooting on location in areas across the United States, including Route 66 in California and Arizona. The film was a global hit.

CRUISE THE TEXAS CORRIDOR ON ROUTE 66 Slicing through the Panhandle and marking the halfway point between Chicago and Santa Monica on the original drive, Route 66 created a few hidden gems to seek as you blast across the historic road.

Last year marked the first annual Route 66 Festival, taking place across the Texas stretch of the road at various locations over one week in June, culminating in an Amarillo bash. Amarillo hosted rodeos, Elvis impersonators, a Miss Texas Route 66 Pinup Pageant, cattle drives, and car shows over ten days of the festival. If you miss the fest, don’t worry. The biggest city on Route 66 is home to the Route 66 Historic District

on 6th Avenue between Georgia and Western Streets. Stop by for antiques, art galleries, and architecture.

Slug Bug Ranch

Bring the spray paint. You’ll need it at Cadillac Ranch, a must-see installation of ten Cadillacs manufactured between 1949 and 1963 and driven nose-fi rst into the desert in Amarillo, Texas.

Covered in g raf f iti, the paint job continually evolves as passersby add new scrawls regularly. The Caddies have been painted all pink, g ray, or black throughout the years, but pilgrims with paint cans are never far away. A relic of the 1970s, Cadillac Ranch, was created by artists from San Francisco who were part of the Ant Farm collective. Though located on private property in a cow pasture, visitors are encouraged. Combines and Volkswagen Bugs were buried similarly at nearby Combine City and VW Slug Bug Ranch.

GHOST TOWNS If Texas ruins call to you, stop by the ghost towns at Alanreed and Glenrio.

Hauntingly beautiful, each town’s crumbling cafes, fi lling stations, and motels suggest a world long gone. For a challenging side quest, try to locate Jericho, a small ghost town of farms and the odd abandoned car between Alanreed and Groom.

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adventure | TRAVELING ROUTE 66

U-Drop Inn

FOOD & FUN FACTS You can’t miss the glowing green neon in Shamrock. Designed as a gas station, cafe, and store, the Art Deco-style structure called the U-Drop Inn was opened in 1936. After being largely abandoned, it later saw new life and renovation. Now a visitor center with a small eatery for guests to order sandwiches, classic American pies, and ice cream, the stop no longer offers gas but does have a Tesla charging station out back.

Grab a bite to eat at the Midpoint Cafe in Adrian. As its name suggests, this cafe marks the midpoint of Route 66 between Chicago and Los Angeles. It’s an excellent spot for food and nostalgia.

The Big Texan

The Big Texan Steak Ranch in Amarillo is well known for its 72-ounce steak challenge and offers a taste of classic Texan cuisine and a lively atmosphere.

Though technically across the border in Oklahoma, the National Route 66 Museum in Elk City provides insight into the history and culture of Route 66 and its impact on the region.

If you venture beyond the Lone Star State, keep an eye out for quirky roadside stops like Seligman Sundries in Seligman, Arizona, and local diners or motels like the Blue Swallow Motel in Tucumcari, New Mexico, that add to the charm and character of this historic road.

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february 2024

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cuisine

ry c o ld

c lu b

U se ve er R IC KS : Le t b a tt T IP S & T c ri s p y c o a ti n g . s in g . u a r re s o d a fo te s b e fo -1 0 m in u s it fo r 5

WATCH PARTY winners GET SUPER BOWL AND MARCH MADNESS READY WITH THESE CROWD-PLEASING BITES

BY JENNIFER BAJSEL

SPICY KOREAN CAULIFLOWER BITES S E R V I N G S : 6 - 8 | P R E P : 2 0 M I N . | C O O K : 3 0 M I N . | T O TA L : 5 0 M I N .

INGREDIENTS: 1 head caulif lower | 1 cup rice f lour | ½ cup all-purpose f lour | 1 tsp. baking soda | ½ tsp. salt | ¼ tsp. white pepper | 1 cup club soda Glaze: | 1 cup vegetable oil | 2 cloves garlic, minced | 2 Tbsp. gochujang | 1 Tbsp. brown sugar | 2 Tbsp. rice vinegar | 1 Tbsp. soy sauce | 2 Tbsp. water | Green onion and sesame seeds, optional DIRECTIONS: CUT caulif lower into bite-size pieces. WHISK together the rice f lour, all-purpose f lour, baking soda, salt & pepper. ADD club soda and stir to combine. PL ACE a deep skillet or Dutch oven on the stove top and fill with vegetable oil. HEAT oil on medium-high heat until it reaches about 325°. TOSS caulif lower in batter and drop into oil, working in batches. FRY until golden brown, about 7-10 minutes for each batch. DRAIN fried caulif lower on a rack over a baking sheet to keep crispy. WHISK glaze ingredients in a separate mixing bowl. Toss fried caulif lower to coat, working in batches. Garnish caulif lower with sliced green onion and sesame seeds.

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cuisine | WATCH PARTY WINNERS

TIPS & TRICKS: To save time, buy a roasted chicken and pull off the bone.

Thicken sauce on the stove top and mix chicken and sauce together.

PRETZEL BUN HONEY MUSTARD CHICKEN SLIDERS S E RV I NG S: 8 | PREP: 1 0 M I N. | C OOK: 5 H OU RS | TOTA L : 5 H OU RS 1 0 MIN .

INGREDIENTS: 2 lbs. chicken breast | 2 Tbsp. yellow mustard | 2 Tbsp. Dijon mustard | 3 Tbsp. honey | 1 cup chicken stock | 1 Tbsp. cornstarch | ½ tsp. kosher salt | ¼ tsp. black pepper | 1 pkg. pretzel buns Carrot Red Onion Slaw: 1 ½ cup shredded carrots | ½ medium red onion | ¼ cup mayonnaise | 1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard | ½ tsp. celery seeds | 2 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar | Salt & pepper to taste DIRECTIONS: MIX mu st ard , h o n e y, chi cke n stock , an d co r n st arch .

POUR mi x t ure into a sl o w cooke r. SEASON chi cke n w ith sa lt an d pe p pe r. PL ACE chi cke n in sl o w cooke r. COOK o n l o w fo r 5 hr s . SHRED chi cke n an d mi x w ith sau ce in th e sl o w cooke r. KEEP o n war m u n t i l r e a d y t o s e r v e . Fo r t h e s l a w: M I X a l l i n g r e d i e n t s i n a se parate bo wl an d ref r i ge rate whil e chi cke n cook s . SERVE h o n e y mu st ard chi cke n o n p ret zel b un s to p ped w ith sl aw.

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cuisine | WATCH PARTY WINNERS

TIPS & TRICKS: You can use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to make meatballs the same size. The more you move the meatballs in the pan, the rounder your meatballs will be. You can also use store-bought marinara.

PAN FRIED ITALIAN MEATBALLS WITH MARINARA DIPPING SAUCE S E R V I N G S :

1 0

|

P R E P :

3 0

M I N .

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C O O K :

3 0

M I N .

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T O T A L :

1

H O U R

INGREDIENTS: 1 lb. ground beef | 1 lb. bulk Italian sausage | 1 large egg, lightly beaten | ½ cup dry Italian breadcrumbs | ¼ cup milk, whole | ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese | ¼ cup fresh parsley, minced | 1 tsp. salt | ½ tsp. pepper | ½ tsp. garlic powder | 1 Tbsp. Italian seasoning | 6 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil, divided Sauce: 28 oz crushed tomato | 1 Tbsp. onion powder | ½ Tbsp. garlic powder | 1 Tbsp. basil | Salt & pepper to taste DIRECTIONS: COMBINE, in a large bowl, ground beef, sausage, egg, breadcr umbs, milk, cheese, fresh parsley, and all sea sonings. USE your hand s to shape 1-inch balls. PL ACE a large skillet on medium-high heat. COAT the pan with 2 Tbsp. of olive oil. PL ACE 1/3 of the meatballs in the skillet. BROWN meatballs on all sides. TURN stove-top down to medium-low to continue cooking meatballs, stir r ing occa sionally until cooked through. REPEAT with the remaining meatballs, being caref ul not to overcrowd the pan each time. SIMMER cr ushed tomatoes and sea sonings in a separate pot on low heat. TO SERVE, place a toothpick in each meatball with sauce on the side.

ABOUT OUR CHEF Jennifer is a private chef in Dallas, TX , with a passion for home-cooked meals with a global inf luence.

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

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Arlington-South 5001 S. Cooper Street, Suite 111 Arlington, TX 76017 (817) 557-2253 Arlington-North 839 E Lamar BLVD Arlington, TX 76011 (817) 583-6522 Mansfield 3141 E Broad Street Suite 115 Mansfield, TX 76063 (682) 204-0235

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our picks | LIVING LIKES

A SMATTERING

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

A TREAT FOR YOUR SWEETHEART

BY HE AT H E R WI T H E R S POON

Araya Artisan Chocolate specializes in handcrafted, small-batch gourmet chocolate products and gift boxes. They make their creations using the best chocolate available, following French and Belgian artisanal techniques. They carefully source all their ingredients and do not use any preservatives. Araya Artisan Chocolate is a proud woman-owned and operated small business that ships nationwide. $38 (BOX OF 12), ARAYACHOCOLATE.COM

TIDY TEA The Linus Tea Storage Box is ideal for sorting and storing teabags, sweetener packets, non-dair y creamers, and other small items. With eight deep compartments, this clear tea organizer keeps contents upright and easy to see. A hinged lid keeps everything in its place. Use it alone or stack it with other boxes to create a neat beverage bar or restore order on a kitchen shelf. $27, CONTAINERSTORE.COM

DETAILED DINING Set the table for the Lunar New Year and special occasions all year long with this vibrant dinnerware featuring animals, my thical creatures, and symbols that have significant meaning in Chinese culture. Made of porcelain and stoneware, the collection boasts bright gold rims and glazed interiors that help you create a beautif ul, welcoming table.

PRICES VARY, WILLIAMS-SONOMA.COM

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HUES OF BLUE Enhance your home with the Tall Modern Glass and Loop Vase from Threshold. These stylish vases look great as a stand-alone piece or filled with flowers or green foliage. Perfect for a mantel, console, side, or entr y way table, they layer perfectly with other decor for a clean and contemporary look. $10 & $30, TARGET.COM

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