Living Magazine December 19

REFLECT

D EC E M B E R 2 0 1 9

APPRECIATE THE YEAR

ARLINGTON / MANSFIELD / GRAND PRAIRIE

wishing you a MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR!

‘Tis the Season—for Pampering

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HEALTHCARE

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contents | LIVING MAGAZINE inside this issue DECEMBER 2019 | r e f l e c t

on the cover 24 I AVANTE SALON AND DAY SPA IN THE SPOTLIGHT 28 I THE BREAST CENTER AT

METHODIST MANSFIELD

MEDICAL CENTER

features

44

NIGHT LIGHT

Evening party attire that will brighten your mood

50

SHIN DIG WIT H ST YL E

Throwing a holiday party that’s sure to delight

66

EXC ELLEN CE IN EDU CATI ON

Making sure your child .. makes the most of it

72 in every issue 12

P UBLIS HER ’S LETT ER

14

S OCI AL CALEND AR

16

B EST B E TS

18

TA L K O F T HE TOW N

26

F R UIT O F T HE V IN E

22

30 WELLNESS

40 AESTHETICS

52 HOMESTEAD

62 ADVENTURE

THE SECRET TO HAPPINESS

FORWARD FAST

CONSIDERABLE CANDIDATES

CHRISTMAS IN JACKSON HOLE

2020 VISION

FLEECE NAVIDAD

74

L IV ING LIK ES

70 CUISINE ALL THE TRIMMINGS FROM OUR TABLE TO YOURS

GET BACK

december 2019

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letter from the p ublisher

publishing PUBLISHER Misty Daniels

Christmas is a great time to look back on all the blessings of the year—and the years. It’s a season for slowing down and reconnecting with family and friends and remembering those who’ve gone on before us. Sure, it’s a season of elaborate parties, extravagant decorations, and grand gestures, but it’s also a time of quiet moments and silent, soulful reflection.

As we indulge in gifts and greetings and get-togethers, let’s not forget about the greatest gift of all that was given one night in a quiet stable in Bethlehem. May the gift of the Savior be at the heart of our celebration—during Christmas time and all year long.

I can hardly wait to see this Christmas through the eyes of our grand girls, to relive the magic of the Christmas tree, to teach them my childhood Christmas carols, and to share their breathless anticipation over Christmas morning. But I also cherish the time I’ll have to talk to them about the true reason for the season, to read the nativity story to them from the Bible, and to watch that story unfold for them, as it did for me.

From the Daniels family to yours, may your Christmas be merry and bright and filled with the love of the Savior!

contribution EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Lisa Landry, Anna Charles, LaRue

EDITOR Brandon Daiker

Novick, Meredith Knight

production

Lauren Medean, Diana Raines

ART DIRECTOR Kelsey Higham

community magazine group

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Van Ngo, Amelia Callies CLIENT SERVICES MANAGERS Jenefer Grady administration SENIOR ADMINISTRATOR Todd Collom, Don Beene OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR Teresa May ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Mary Phaneuf advertising/marketing/sales VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Scott Daniels sdaniels@livingmagazine.net ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Kami Anderson, kanderson@livingmagazine.net

PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTORS

NORTH TEXAS MARKETS Arlington/Mansfield/Grand Prairie Rockwall/Rowlett/Heath/Forney Frisco/Plano McKinney/Allen/Fairview Celina/Prosper Southlake/Westlake/Trophy Club/ Colleyville/Grapevine Coppell/North Irving Keller/North Richland Hills N. Richardson/Murphy/Sachse/Wylie Flower Mound/Highland Village/Argyle SOUTH TEXAS MARKETS The Woodlands/Shenandoah/ Magnolia Spring/Champions Cy-Fair Fort Bend Katy / Fulshear Memorial LIVING MAGAZINE

DIRECTOR OF BRAND MARKETING Bruce Perlstein SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORM MANAGEMENT Lindsay Clark, lclark@livingmagazine.net DIGITAL MARKETING SPECIALIST Kat Curling

PUBLISHING PARTNERS 4101 W. Green Oaks, #305 - 594 Arlington, TX 76016 682-556-1246 • Fax: 817-572-3232 For advertising/distribution information call 682-556-1246.

DIGITAL MARKETING INTERN Julianna Beno PRINT SUPPORT SPECIALIST Lisa Austin

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

A partner of Chansen Media Group

TO GET THIS ISSUE AND SEE MORE ABOUT LIVING MAGAZINE VISIT:

livingmagazine.pub

Living Magazine is published monthly. Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher. Living Magazine is not responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine. Advertisers and its agencies assume all liability for advertising content. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted with our the permission in writing from the publisher.

letters from

O U R M AYO R S mayor

DAVID COOK

As the holiday shopping season gets underway, Mansfield residents now have a multitude of new retail options available to them. That wasn’t always the case.

New stores are now open at The Shops at Broad and at retail centers all along East Broad Street. Historic Downtown Mansfield has dozens of businesses with unique inventory perfect for gift giving.

The key to all this is shopping local and putting those dollars you spend to work for your community. For the last 20 years, city officials and economic development staff have worked diligently to bring retail and commercial to Mansfield so residents don’t have to look to our neighbors to address those needs. When you shop in Mansfield, your sales tax dollars stay in

mayor

RON JENSEN

Grand Prairie has lots of family fun things to do to make your holidays Prairie and bright! Prairie Lights opens Nov. 28-Dec. 31 in Lynn Creek Park on Lake Joe Pool, delighting guests with its two-mile drive through light displays, Holiday Village and walk-through Lighted Forest. The Grand Prairie Arts Council presents Peter Pan at the Uptown Theater in downtown Grand Prairie Dec. 6-8 and Dec. 13-15. Farmers Market features fresh fruits, veggies and Holiday Gift Market Dec. 7, 14 and 21.

Have a snomazing time at the Jingle Bell Bash Dec. 14 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 123 W. Main St. just across from Farmers Market. This free holiday event features holiday drinks, arts, crafts, a snow maze and more. Traders Village offers photos with Santa Sat.-Sun., Dec. 1-15. Fill your stockings with

mayor

JEFF WILLIAMS

It’s been fun watching The American Dream City embrace the holiday spirit. Homes, businesses, and government buildings have come to life with lights and greenery and other decorations. And again, this year, more than 200 homeowners in the Interlochen neighborhood, near Interstate 30, are pulling out all the stops to adorn their homes and yards with festive lights and holiday-themed displays. If a drive past the decorations has become part of your family’s holiday tradition, this year’s display will begin December 13th and run through the holidays from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. each night.

A huge “thanks” goes out to the Arlington police department for being on hand to keep traffic flowing and everyone safe. Admission is free and our city website at ArlingtonTX.gov has information on travel routes and safety information. Thanks to all the Interlochen families

MA NS FI ELD our community and fund the budgetary needs of our city. And with a half cent of our sales tax going to parks and another half cent to economic development, those dollars buy park land and work to keep the economic health of our city strong.

So Shop Mansfield. It makes cents. Literally.

Enjoy the holidays and Merry Christmas!

GRA ND PRAI RI E treasures found at IKEA and the Premium Outlet Mall. Rock out at the Pentatonix Christmas Tour at the Theatre at Grand Prairie Dec. 22-23. Enjoy Christmas at the Palace Dec. 14 and 21 at Ripley’s Believe It Or Not, complete with entrance to all five attractions, Christmas crafts, hot cocoa and a Ripley’s style photo with Santa. If it is cold – or not -- outside, splash in the tropics at Epic Waters Indoor Water Park year round. Start your new you in the new year with a membership to the Epic fitness, arts and entertainment center. So many ways to….

Live Life Grand,

A RLINGTON for keeping this favorite Arlington Christmas traditions alive.

If you haven’t yet, be sure to visit the new mural and rose garden completed by Arlington Girl Scouts. The rose garden is located at the Upstairs Gallery on West Abram Street. The mural is on the Precision Press building on West Main and depicts the iconic Rosie the Riveter and her “We Can Do It” spirit. Local artist, Amy Stephens, and Seguin High School student, Rachel Hollings, helped with the project.

Merry Christmas from the Williams family to every one of you!

MANSFIELD / ARLINGTON / GRAND PRIAIRE

community | SOCIAL CALENDAR

december

14

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

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

Have some fun and have breakfast with Santa! 8am-11am. $10/person. Limited spots available. Register at website. Cliff Nelson Rec Center, 4600 W. Bardin.

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

NOW - DECEMBER 31

DECEMBER 7

DECEMBER 14

HOLIDAY LIGHTS PARADE

HOLIDAY LIGHTS EXPERIENCE

COOKIES WITH THE CLAUSES

G ra n d P ra i r i e

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

Arlington

Enjoy drive through displays and themed lands, carnival rides, indoors show and lighted walk through forest. Tickets available online.

Lynn Creek Park at Joe Pool Lake, 5610 Lake Ridge Pkwy.

Everyone is welcome to decorate cookies, play festive games and make some holiday crafts with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Bring your camera for pictures with the Claus family. $6/ person. This fee applies to little ones ages 3-12. 9:45am-11:15am. Hugh Smith Rec Center, 1815 New York Ave.

Get a good seat along the parade route enjoying hot chocolate, sights and sounds of the season.

The entertainment begins around 2pm. And the parade begins at 6pm. The tree lighting follows the parade. Come and make a lot of memories! Downtown Arlington.

P R A I R I E L I G H TS . O R G

H O L I D AY L I G H TS PA R A D E . C O M DECEMBER 14

DECEMBER 6 AND 7

DECEMBER 7, 14, 21

HOMETOWN HOLIDAYS 2019 M a n sf i e l d

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA E p i c Wa t e rs , G ra n d P ra i r i e

Come and have a magical time in Mansfield.

Shop In historic downtown, tree lighting with Santa, fireworks, parade and so much more!

Bring your little ones to have breakfast with Santa! You’ll get a complimentary souvenir photo with Santa, enjoy a delicious breakfast

The festival includes live reindeer in a petting

buffet, holiday crafts and all-day splash and

zoo, food trucks, rides and activities for all.

play. Starts at 8am! Advance ticket purchase

5pm-9pm. 1200 E. Broad St. Parade will be

required for Breakfast with Santa. Visit website

held Dec 7, 8pm-10:30pm. 106 S. Wisteria St.

for information and costs.

EPICWATERSGP.COM/BREAKFAST-WITH-SANTA/

MOBILE PET ADOPTION EVENT Arlington

Adorable adoptable pets looking for new homes will be available at the mobile adoption unit for immediate adoption! Visit with adoptable cats available inside PetSmart.

Golden PAWS will be at this event (weather permitting) with wonderful hand-crafted treasures such as blankets, toys for dogs, catnip toys for cats, bandanas and more, available with your donation. Adoptions will be at the Petsmart® in South Arlington, 203 E. I-20 (Arlington Highlands) 10:30am-3:30pm.

DECEMBER 6 AND 7

OLDE TOWN CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR A r l i n g t o n P a r ks a n d R e c re a t i o n

DECEMBER 8

HOLIDAY HOME TOUR M a n sf i e l d

Presented by Mansfield Women’s Club. Tour

S TA R T I N G D EC E M B E R 2 0

WINTER BREAK CAMP

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

Come and browse to find a gift that will make

5-6 beautifully decorated homes in Mansfield

someone’s Christmas memorable. Take a

and South Arlington this year, while supporting

Visit our website for dates, times and costs for the various rec centers.

photo with Santa. Win raffle prizes and enjoy

our main fundraiser of the year. Proceeds will

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

lots of goodies at this annual craft fair.

benefit the health, welfare and education of

This event is free. December 6- 2pm-8pm;

women and children in our area through our

December 7am-3pm. Dottie Lynn Rec Center,

yearly charity grant program. 1pm-5pm.

3200 Norwood Lane.

MANSFIELDWOMENSCLUB.COM

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december 2019

see more e vents in your area on LIVINGMAGAZINE.NET

DECEMBER

12/5 The Guess Who

12/6 Wynonna & The Big Noise Rockin' Roots Christmas 12/7 AMH Spectacular Christmas 12/8 AMH Spectacular Christmas 12/11 Will Hearns "Grand Ol' Christmas Show" 12/14 AMH Spectacular Christmas 12/15 AMH Spectacular Christmas 12/19 Symphony Arlington 12/20 Chris Milyo Big Ban - Swinging Christmas featuring "Kings Return" 12/21 "Blue Christmas" Starring Al Joslin 12/28 Whey Jennings & Cagney Frizzell

Upcoming

ZZ Top VS Lynyrd Skynyrd - Featuring Trio Grande & Lone Star Skynyrd, Swan Song - A Tribute to Led Zeppelin, Garrett Jacobs, Bricks In The Wall - Pink Floyd Tribute, Symphony Arlington, Collin Raye, Phil Vassar, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Hiromi, The Kingston Trio

Downtown Arlington • Est. 1949

224 N Center St. • Arlington, Texas 76011 • 817-226-4400 • mark@ArlingtonMusicHall.net

Purchase Tickets Online at ArlingtonMusicHall.net

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our picks | BEST BETS

U PC O M I N G E V E N TS

PENTATONIX

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 22 AT 7PM & MONDAY, DECEMBER 23 AT 7PM T h e T h ea t re a t G ra n d P rairie

Three-time Grammy® Award-winning and multi-platinum selling artist Pentatonix is coming to town this Christmas to celebrate the holidays with you. Bringing you new songs and performing holiday favorites like “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”, “Joy To The World”, “Carol of the Bells” and many more.

C OMI N G TO THE ATER S

A TRIBUTE TO THE BEATLES’ WHITE ALBUM Wednesday, December 4 at 8pm T h e T h ea t re a t G ra n d P rairie

WYNONNA & THE BIG NOISE ROCKIN’ ROOTS CHRISTMAS Friday, December 6 at 8pm Arli n g to n Mu s i c Ha l l JAY LENO Saturday, December 7 at 8pm T h e T h ea t re a t G ra n d P rairie

AMH SPECTACULAR CHRISTMAS Weekends in December (Various Days & Times)

DECEMBER 20 // STAR WARS: THE RISE OF SKYWALKER DAISY RIDLEY, ADAM DRIVER DIR. J. J. ABRAMS (SUPER 8)

Let’s be real, you could go to the theater over the holidays this year and catch the new CG-filled version of Cats, or yet another adaptation of Little Women (written and directed

by Greta Gerwig at least!), but you’ll almost certainly end up at The Rise of Skywalker with the family first— the third and purportedly final entry in the Star Wars sequel trilogy that began all the way back in 2015—which is set to bid a fond farewell to the beloved characters we’ve been rooting for since 1977.

THIS M ONTH IN M OVIE HISTORY

Arli n g to n Mu s i c Ha l l

DECEMBER 27, 2002 // CATCH ME IF YOU CAN

DISNEY JUNIOR HOLIDAY PARTY! Sunday, December 8 at 3pm

LEONARDO DICAPRIO, TOM HANKS // DIR. STEVEN SPIELBERG (HARRY POTTER AND THE SORCERER’S STONE)

T h e T h ea t re a t G ra n d P rairie

WILL HEARN’S “GRAND OL’ CHRISTMAS SHOW” Wednesday, December 11 at 7:30pm Arli n g to n Mu s i c Ha l l CHRIS MILYO BIG BAND - SWINGIN’ CHRISTMAS Friday, December 20 at 8pm Arli n g to n Mu s i c Ha l l

Let us reminisce about the days when Steven Spielberg could release a $50 million comedy/drama with no special effects and go toe to toe with The Lord of the Rings at the Christmas box office, an ancient time known as 2002, when Leonardo DiCaprio, only five years removed from his star turn in James Cameron’s Titanic, appeared in films from two legendary directors in the same weekend (this one, from Spielberg, and Gangs of New York, from Marty Scorsese).

OUR BOOK P ICK

HOLIDAY WISHES Saturday, December 21 at 7:30pm T h e T h ea t re a t G ra n d P rairie

“BLUE CHRISTMAS” STARRING AL JOSLIN Saturday, December 21 at 2pm Arli n g to n Mu s i c Ha l l LONE STAR NYE LIVE! Tuesday, December 31st at 8pm Texa s Li v e !

WHILE WE CHECK THE ACCURACY OF EVENT INFORMATION PRIOR TO PRESS, DETAILS CAN CHANGE. PLEASE CHECK WITH THE VENUE BEFORE HITTING THE ROAD!

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DECEMBER 3 // THE CLERGYMAN’S WIFE A PRIDE & PREJUDICE NOVEL

BY MOLLY GREELEY For every fan of Austen’s 1813 novel Pride & Prejudice comes this novel set in “Austen’s world,” delving deeper into the character Charlotte Collins and exploring the roles of love and sensibility in the life of a woman residing in early 19th century England.

Still from Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker (2019), Walt Disney Pictures. Movie poster from Catch Me If You Can (2002), DreamWorks Pictures. Book cover from The Clergyman’s Wife by Molly Greeley (2019), William Morrow Paperbacks, with description excerpts from publisher. All materials are presented for non-commercial illustrative purposes.

Saturday January 25, 2020

MANSFIELD / ARLINGTON / GRAND PRIAIRE

community | TALK OF THE TOWN

USAGYM.ORG, PHOTO: AGENCIA BRASIL FOTOGRAPHIAS/FLICKR.COM: CC BY 2.0

produced a number of World and Olympic medalists, including Carly Patterson, who won the 2004 Olympic all-around title. We hope everyone will come watch our athletes compete, including those who may be on their way to Tokyo.”

At the 2019 U.S. Championships, both 2016 Olympic all-around champion Simone Biles of Spring, Texas/World Champions Centre, and two-time Olympian Sam Mikulak of Newport Coast, Calif./U.S. Olympic Training Center, won their sixth U.S. women’s and men’s all-around titles, respectively. Recently, Biles won her fifth World all-around title and a total of five gold World medals, setting a new record of 25 for most World gymnastics medals won by a female or male gymnast.

In addition to Biles, current national men’s and women’s team members who live in or have ties with Texas include Sydney Barros, Lewisville/Texas Dreams; Fuzzy Benas, Richmond/EnRich Gymnastics; Skye Blakely, Frisco/WOGA; Garrett Braunton, Cypress/ Cypress Academy of Gymnastics; Sophia Butler, Houston/Discover Gymnastics; Jordan Chiles, Houston/World Champions Centre; Asher Hong, Tomball/Cypress Academy; Colt Walker, Cedar Park/AcroTex Gymnastics; and Colin Van Wicklen, Magnolia/University of Oklahoma.

DFW LANDS U.S. GYMNASTICS TEAM

2 0 2 0 C H A M P I O N S H I P S T O B E H E L D AT D I C K I E S A R E N A N E X T J U N E

T

HE U.S. GYMNASTICS CHAMPIONSHIPS will make its first appearance in Fort Worth when the event heads to Dickies Arena from June 4th through the 7th in 2020. It will mark just the fourth time the event has been held in Texas.

“The 2020 U.S. Championships is literally the last stop before the Olympic Trials, and the four-day competition will play a pivotal part in selecting the gymnasts who will advance to the trials,” said Stefanie Korepin, chief programs officer for USA Gymnastics. “The Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area and the state of Texas have great gymnastics communities and have

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The U.S. Gymnastics Championships was last held in Texas in 2009 when it was staged at the American Airlines Center in Dallas.

Houston has hosted the event twice, both times • in t he Oly mpic yea r FOR MORE ON THE (1988, 2008). In addiEVENT, AND TO SECURE TICKETS tion to Patterson, some AND GET SCHEDULE well-known gymnasts INFORMATION, VISIT who have called Texas USAGYM.ORG. home include Olympic all-around champions Mary Lou Retton, Nastia Liukin and Biles; Olympic medalists Mohini Bhardwaj, Raj Bhavsar, Kim Zmeskal Burdette, Jonathan Horton, Madison Kocian, Julianne McNamara, Phoebe Mills, Dominique Moceanu, Betty Okino and Kerri Strug; and World medalists Chris Brooks, Rebecca Bross, Ivana Hong, Steve Legendre, Ragan Smith, Kurt Thomas and Hollie Vise.

Havard Heart will be opening a new office at 1754 Broad Park Circle North on December 2, 2019.

Even though we are just moving across the parking lot from our current location, we are excited to be able to better serve the Mansfield and surrounding area with a larger office and expanded services for our patients. Dr. Havard is board certified in Cardiovascular Diseases.

CARDIOLOGY SERVICES • Treatment of heart failure, heart attack, arrhythmias • Echocardiogram: Ultrasound of the heart to evaluate overall function • Stress Testing: To evaluate heart symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath and passing out spells • Heart Monitoring: To evaluate heart palpitations and arrhythmias • Tilt Table Testing: *To evaluate light headiness and falls • EECP Therapy: *To treat chronic heart symptoms *These services will be available in the new office

VASCULAR SERVICES • Screening for arterial and vascular disease • Leg swelling, pain fatigue, discoloration blood vessels are often symptoms of underlying heart disease that vein centers cannot test for.

• If you want pretty legs, go see the vein guys. If you want HEALTHY legs, come see us!

Come experience the Havard Heart difference where our focus is treating the whole cardiovascular system one patient at a time.

best of

ARLINGTON & MANSFIELD READERS’ CHOICE

2019

1754 Broad Park Circle N. Mansfield, TX 76063

817-225-2718

MANSFIELD / ARLINGTON / GRAND PRIAIRE

community | TALK OF THE TOWN

CELEBRATING T VETERANS

H E C I ­­T Y O F G R A N D P R A I R I E Parks, A r ts and Recreation Department hosted a Veterans Day Ceremony that celebrated our nation’s heroes.

The ceremony included a fly over, 21-gun salute and presentation by

GRAND PRAIRIE HOSTS SPECIAL CEREMONY

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Admiral Patrick Walsh, Retired USN. Admiral Walsh commanded the Pacific Fleet during Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom.

The Law Offices of Gaydos Duffer wish you and your family the Happiest of Holidays!

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PET CLUB Have you checked out our new Living Pet Club yet?

We showcase a few of your fluffy (or feathery or fishy or funky) pet friends every month by sharing their pictures in the pages of Living. And members are automatically entered in our monthly pet gear giveaway!

W W W. L I V I N G M A G A Z I N E . N E T / P E T- C L U B december 2019

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community | PET CLUB

PET CLUB Tucker “This is Tucker, the friendly Yorkie! He enjoys his daily walks in our neighborhood and loves meeting new friends!”

- MICHAEL L.

THIS MONTH’S

GIVEAWAY Give your dog their own stocking hung by the chimney with care thanks to Hearth Hounds, which offers a wide range of stockings that represent almost every breed and are embellished with with soft faux furs and are fully lined.

HEARTHHOUNDS.COM

Smokey Dude

PET TRIVIA QUESTION!

“Smokey Dude was born in our home in May of 2000 and left us in May of 2019 at the age of 19! Our handsome Smokey Dude loved catnip and chilling in the sun.”

A) Catnip has been used to make tea for humans historically

ONE OF THE FOLLOWING FACTS IS INCORRECT. WHICH ONE?

B) Most Yorkies bred today are distant relatives of a single dog named Ben

- AMREEN & ROB K.

C) The average cat lifespan has doubled from 7 years in the 1980s to 15 years today

Aldo “Meet Aldo, he’s 16 weeks old and a half husky/ half pitbull ‘Pitsky.’ He’s loving, playful, and always looking for new outdoor adventures.”

- ASHLEY A.

(D: Nah, but it sounds kinda funny right?)

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D) Pitsky mixed breed dogs are also known as Huskbulls

PET CLUB MEMBERS Every month, all Living Pet Club members are automatically entered to win our giveaway! To join the club and receive a free membership magnet for your pet, send your pet’s name, your name, your address, and a clear photo of your pet to pets@livingmagazine. net. They might just turn up in a future issue of Living!

PETS@LIVINGMAGAZINE.NET

PAW T Y !

Three Dog Bakery is an unforgettable experience for dogs (and their two-legged parents). The only thing you need to watch out for is exuberant wagging tails — dogs often go into full-body wagging mode!

Visit our Mansfield location to find a selection of treats that can only be found in our bakeries – because they’re fresh-baked on-site by real pastry chefs who use simple, healthy, and whole some ingredients. Check out our playful exclusive seasonal treats, gourmet dog pastries, includ ing our famous Pupcakes®, and one-of-a-kind canine cakes you can have personalized for your pup’s special occasion. With Three Dog Bakery, you can make their birthday, adoption day, training graduation day or any day special. Because who says you need to have a reason to spoil your dog?

Three Dog Bakery opened the world’s first bakery for dogs in 1989 and has been making tails wag ever since! We’re excited to share the same over-the-top experience with you in Mansfield.

Bring your dogs and come see what all the fuss is about!

North Arlington • 817 E. Lamar Blvd.

Mansfield • 3300 E. Broad Street Ste 142 817-795-3135 • ThreeDog.com Follow us:

ON THE COVER

AVANTÉ SALON & DAY SPA FOR GIFTS AND RELAXATION A N D A M E M B E R S H I P M A K ES I T AVA I L A B L E A L L Y E A R L O N G

BY MEREDITH KNIGHT

Don’t look now but the madness of the holidays is here! It’s a wonderful time—absolutely it is. But it’s also a time when you can feel pulled in a dozen directions at once. It’s too easy to put yourself on the back burner, while you’re making your list and checking it twice. But before you pour yourself out and out and out—until there’s nothing left—don’t forget to take a break, take a breath, and indulge in a little self-care. If you already have an AVANTÉ membership, you know exactly what I’m talking about. If not, then listen up.

AVANTÉ Salon & Day Spa has got you covered with everything you need to relax, revive, and rejuvenate, so you can meet your holiday duties with a spring in your step and a smile on your face. Make time between the kids’ school program and that mandatory office party, to unplug and recover with your favorite AVANTÉ massage. Slip away from all the shopping and baking to regain your youthful, dewy skin with one of a dozen customizable facials. Then finish off your holiday look with a mani/pedi, an up-do, and some lash extensions. Now you’re feeling festive.

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P H O T O S B Y L A N D O N D AY

VOTED TOP SPA 15 YEARS! W hat about all those people who make your life worth living, all year?

AVANTÉ’s got you covered again with spa gift cards for everyone on your list. Who needs a prenatal massage?

Who deserves a hot-stone massage or a body wrap? And who would be a lot easier to live/work with, after a deep-tissue massage? Surprise your bestie with facials for the two of you or your honey with a couple’s massage (complete with chocolate-covered strawberries, adult beverages, and a couple’s rain shower). And for only $68 dollars a month, you can give the gift of an AVANTÉ membership for the spa service of their choice each month plus exclusive membership perks.

Avante Salon & Day Spa is a Christian family based business that is locally owned and operated. They offer you the warm, know-you-by-name service you can’t find in a chain spa. They’ve worked hard to make theirs a one-stopshop where loyal clients return again and again for massage, waxing services, nails, facials, exclusive hair and skincare products, and sound, educated advice from technicians with years in the industry and a passion for bringing you personal, highly-customized service.

At this time of year, the management and staff of AVANTÉ Salon & Day Spa want to extend a heartfelt thanks to all their loyal guests. Your loyalty to them has not only provided rewarding careers to AVANTÉ’ employees allowing them and their families to prosper and achieve their dreams, but it also supports a locally-owned business that in turn supports many non-profit and community groups. Thank you!

And if you’re new to the AVANTÉ Salon & Day Spa experience, the web address says it all. Go to BestSalonMansfield. com to book your holiday relaxation package and start checking those loved ones off your Christmas gifting list.

I LOVE THAT AVANTE OFFERS HALF AND FULL DAY SPA PACKAGES –DAWN, MANSFIELD, TX CONTACT 1223 EAST DEBBIE LANE (NEAR MATLOCK ROAD) MANSFIELD, TEXAS | (817) 477-4040 BESTSALONMANSFIELD.COM

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community | FRUIT OF THE VINE

tragedy to

TRIUMPH

BY LI SA J ENKI NS-MO O RE

THE HATTONS ARE MEMBERS OF THE BETHEL LEADERS NETWORK AND IN THE EARLY STAGES OF LAUNCHING GATES CHURCH, GATESCHURCH.ORG.

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A

t 17, Gabriel Hatton was one of the youngest pilots to receive a license and had accumulated over 150 hours of flight time on his way to becoming a commercial pilot. His love for flying began early, as he hoped to follow in the footsteps of his Uncle Dan. As the years progressed and he began to seriously pursue flying, his parents, Clint and Amárillys, made a conscious decision to reject the fear that often accompanies risk, and instead embraced his dream and supported his ambition.

They’ve remained steadfast in that decision, even after receiving the news of Gabriel’s tragic crash in September that took his own life.

Amárillys says, “If you let fear in one part of your life, it will bleed into other parts as well.”

Clint shares a similar sentiment. “If we regret that one choice, it invalidates everything else about Gabriel’s life. We choose to reject regret and instead thank God for the time we had with Gabriel, knowing we will see him again in heaven.”

As I’ve watched my friends navigate through an immeasurable loss, I’ve seen nothing but faith.

We cannot know the depth of our faith until it is tested, and this family has endured the ultimate test—they’ve been tried in the fire and have come out gold. Rather than bury themselves in remorse and self-pity, crying out to heaven with questions and accusation, they have held their shoulders back, stood tall, and faced loss with grace, dignity, and a strength that only comes from above.

Clint recounts the many times people have called them “strong” and couldn’t accept that word as accurate. “No,” he says, “We aren’t strong. We are greatly loved. Jesus has shown up so powerfully for our family. His love for Gabriel and for us has been tangible, measurable, and definite.” The support he received from his family, friends, and community was overwhelming and they have been so grateful. As people continue to think of Gabriel, the Hattons are insistent that he not be mourned, but celebrated.

At Gabriel Hatton’s memorial, he was indeed celebrated. Planes flown by pilots from all over North Texas, including a few of his best friends from his local aviation club, Tango 31, passed overhead in tribute just before the ceremony began. Hundreds gathered into the sanctuary and though it seated several hundred, it was standing room only as dozens lined the back and walls.

The event began with music—worship music—not somber, mournful tunes, but deeply profound words of praise and adoration to God. As I watched Clint and Amárillys raise their hands in worship, I couldn’t help but weep. Watching them honor

Jesus in spite of their loss was a testimony of faith I will forever remember.

Family and friends took turns reminiscing about Gabriel—his charisma, his boldness, his brilliance— he impacted so many in such a short time. A beautiful slide show pictured him as a wee one in diapers, then taking his first step through the day he took his first solo flight. His infectious smile beamed from the presentation and I knew he was watching from above.

In honor of Gabriel, the Hattons have adopted the following statement: “Live Big, Bold, and Brave.” They have no doubt that Gabriel’s legacy will live on, not only through those words, but that remembering his life will be a catalyst in bringing forth an incredible harvest for the Kingdom of God. Clint says, “I challenge you today, turn your heart to Christ, give Him just a crack of an open door to share the love He has for you. You will never regret it, and his perfect love will lead you into true life.”

They have already witnessed God’s hand in so many situations since Gabriel’s death; many continue to hear and respond to the gospel and many more will follow. While the loss of his life has caused unimaginable pain, the joy in bringing others to Christ and the peace He has offered has been no small consolation. “We still shed tears and will continue to, we have tough moments, but love carries us and helps us appear strong. His grace empowers us to bring hope and encouragement to others, even at times when they intended to bring it to us first.”

Suffering is part of the human experience. Yet those who follow Christ produce fruit from the suffering. The dreams and visions that have already been given will soon come to fruition and Gabriel’s life will continue to impact others for decades. While his death was tragic, his life now in eternity is triumphant. And one day those who believe in Christ will join him in celebration.

LI SA I S A S P EAK ER, F REELANCE W RI T E R A N D A UT HO R O F FO UR B O O KS. TO C O N TACT L ISA O R FO L LOW HE R B LO G , V I SIT LISAJENKINSMOORE.COM OR CONNECT O N FAC E B O O K : HTT PS: //W W W. FAC E B O O K . C O M /L J E N K IN SM O O R E

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SPOTLIGHT

M

ethodist Mansfield Medical Center recently opened a comprehensive center for breast health and women’s services that has the ambience of a luxurious spa.

THE BREAST CENTER AT METHODIST MANSFIELD MEDICAL CENTER BREAST

H E A LT H A N D WOM E N ’ S S E RV IC E S F O C U S E D ON WOM E N

MEET THE MEDICAL DIRECTOR AT THE BREAST CENTER AT METHODIST MANSFIELD MAGDA RISER, DO, EARNED HER MEDICAL DEGREE FROM NEW YORK INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY. SHE THEN COMPLETED A DIAGNOSTIC RADIOLOGY RESIDENCY AT MOUNT SINAI MEDICAL CENTER IN FLORIDA AND A BREAST IMAGING FELLOWSHIP AT BRIGHAM AND WOMEN’S HOSPITAL/DANA-FARBER CANCER INSTITUTE IN BOSTON. DR. RIZER LIVES IN DALLAS WITH HER HUSBAND AND ENGLISH BULLDOG. AS HOBBIES, SHE ENJOYS STAND-UP COMEDY AND LONG WALKS ON THE KATY TRAIL.

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Imagine walking into an imaging center that smells of lavender and is lit by a beautiful chandelier. Tranquil music, comfortable furniture, and stunning decor in serene colors calm the nerves, as does the selection of gourmet coffee, herbal teas, and the berry colored gowns. But don’t let this luxurious appearance fool you — this center is a powerhouse of streamlined care that is technologically advanced and directed by highly trained specialists.

“The Breast Center at Methodist Mansfield is one of the most comprehensive centers for women’s health in Southeast Tarrant County, and it’s designed to cater to the needs of women,” says Juan Fresquez Jr., MBA, president of Methodist Mansfield.

“We all know that early detection of cancer, including breast cancer, saves lives.

Many women put off having their annual mammograms because it’s inconvenient, and it’s an experience that is tolerated, at best. We’re seeking to change this paradigm with a center that offers compassionate, advanced care in a setting that may relieve the anxiety that many women experience.”

While there have been significant breakthroughs in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer in the past decade, it remains one of the most common causes of death among U.S. women. When breast cancer is detected early, the five-

year relative survival rate is 99 percent, according to the American Cancer Society. Early detection is crucial, and this includes monthly breast self-exams and regular clinical breast exams and mammograms.

BREAST HEALTH SERVICES All mammograms at the Breast Center use 3D technology for greater accuracy, especially important for women who have dense breast tissue. To help make mammograms more comfortable, the Breast Center uses the SmartCurve™ system, which is a curved compression surface shaped like a woman’s breast, and the MammoPad®, a soft, warm cushion.

Mammograms are reviewed by the Breast Center’s fellowshiptrained breast radiologist. Women receive the results of their screening mammograms within 24 to 48 hours and the results of diagnostic mammograms immediately at the time of their appointment.

If further testing is needed, it is scheduled as soon as possible. This can include ultrasound, stereotactic, and 3D biopsies.

A dedicated nurse navigator assists inpatients and outpatients in all aspects of their care, answering questions, scheduling appointments, offering emotional support, and providing information and resources.

“Our goal is to provide women with streamlined care in an environment that is comfortable and reassuring, says Magda Rizer, DO, medical director at the Breast Center and a fellowshiptrained breast radiologist. Routine screening mammograms, additional testing, appointments with specialists, and the support of a nurse navigator are all available at the Breast Center.”

WOMEN’S HEALTH In

addition

to

mammography,

the Breast Center offers a range of women’s health services. This includes bone density scans and pelvic health exams. Pelvic health therapists provide treatment for: • Urinary and bowel incontinence • Bladder pain syndrome (interstitial cystitis) • Constipation and irritable bowel syndrome • Pelvic pain or pain with intercourse • Infertility, pregnancy-related discomfort, and postpartum rehabilitation • Abdominal muscle separation (diastasis recti abdominis).

“The Breast Center is the cornerstone of women-centered care,” says Dr. Rizer. “We are here to care for women and empower them with the specialists, information, and resources that they need to make informed decisions about their health.

To do this, we have brought together a multidisciplinary team of specialists that includes radiologists, oncologists, surgeons, gynecologists, physical therapists, and a nurse navigator — to offer support for patients.”

“Methodist Mansfield is committed to quality and advancing the care of every woman,” adds Fresquez.

“We are proud to offer women in Mansfield and the surrounding areas the specialized resources they need in a setting that feels like a spa at a high-end resort. We think that this meticulous attention to detail — from aesthetics to medicine — will make it easier and more comfortable for them to receive the care that they need.”

Methodist Mansfield Medical Center has earned accreditation in mammography and ultrasound by the American College of Radiology.

THE BRE AST CE N TE R AT ME TH OD I ST MANS FI E LD Profe s si o na l Of f i c e B u i ldi ng I , S u i t e 124 28 00 E. B ro a d S t .

Ma nsf i e ld , Texa s 76 06 3 To schedule a mammog ra m, v i si t Ma nsf i e ld Ma mmo .c o m o r cal l 6 8 2 - 24 2 - 72 1 0 .

To schedule pe lv i c he a lt h t he ra py, c a ll 6 8 2- 242 - 3 2 9 9 .

Texas la w prohibits hos pi t a ls f ro m pra c t i c i ng me di c i ne . T he p h ys i c i an s o n th e M e t h odist Health S ystem me d i c a l s t a f f a re i nde pe nd e nt prac ti ti o n e rs w h o are n ot employees or a g e nt s of Me t ho d i s t Ma nsf i e ld Me di c a l C e n te r, M e th o d i s t Hea lth S ys t e m, o r a ny of i t s a f f i li a t e d ho spi t al s .

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wellness

the secret to HAPPINESS? IT MAY BE CLOSER THAN YOU THINK

BY SAMANT H A G LUC K

W

e all want to be happy—and most of us would probably say we’ve experienced happiness. The problem is just that it never seems to stick around long enough. Why is a prolonged state of happiness so elusive, so difficult to pursue in a straightforward way unlike other goals? The answer might surprise you.

W H AT DOE S H A PPINE S S L OOK LIKE ?

Though we talk about “being happy,” most of us don’t actually have a clear idea about what being happy looks like relative to what we’re actually seeking in our lives.

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines happiness as “a st ate of prosper it y and well-being” and “a pleasurable or satisfying experience,” but this definition implies that happiness arises out of external influences, such as mater ial possessions or social status. If we’re talking about a lasting happiness, something that feels more transcendent and removed from external influences, almost every adult realizes this isn’t the case.

Sure, we’re familiar with that giddy, happy feeling we have when we finally get some material object we really want, and there’s nothing wrong with that. But that feeling, which we often equate with happiness, can’t last. Before long, we see another thing we “need,” or find flaws in the things we’ve just gotten, or realize that the thing we thought

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Schedule YOUR colonoscopy!

Colon Cancer Prevention Tips • Get a colonoscopy screening after age 45 • Eat a balanced diet • Maintain a healthy weight & healthy lifestyle • Don’t smoke

Colon cancer is the most beatable, preventable cancer when detected early.

no ifs, ands or

BUTTS

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wellness | THE SECRET TO HAPPINESS

Aim to the side If you pursue contentment head-on, you’ll probably miss it. In other words, you can’t target it directly like you would a more tangible goal.

The key to finding it involves focusing outside of yourself.

BE GRATEFUL for what you have right now. This isn’t to say you shouldn’t strive to improve your life situation.

It means to take quiet time every day to really appreciate what you already have.

GET YOUR EMOTIONS UNDER CONTROL. Emotions give life might really solve all our problems actu-

best course of action in response to

ally just made everything worse.

these struggles.

T he secret revealed

A CONT ENT LIFE H A S SIDE BENEFIT S T OO.

True happiness has a secret name, and it’s contentment. W hen you have the sense that your life is good and meaningful, and that your struggles are worthwhile, that’s contentment. Joy is the fruit which blossoms from it. A lthough we often use the terms joy and happiness interchangeably, they’re quite differ-

You’ll save money, time, and have more energy. Seriously, you will. To pursue the shallow type of happiness—that giddy feeling—you need to work longer and spend more money, both of which devour your time and energ y. A nd while the end result might be pleasing for a time, it often ends up being disappointing.

ent. In contrast to happiness, circum-

Instead, dig deep to find the small joys in

stances don’t dictate the presence of

every circumstance of life. Create a habit

joy in one’s life.

of noticing the deeper lessons buried in

It’s possible to feel content while also being unhappy. Life’s challenges come for us all, and usually at the worst times possible. This t y pically disr upts our

during times of great pain, try to notice and appreciate a beautiful sunrise, a wildflower, or a simple kindness.

You deserve more than the fleeting feel-

have to spiral down into anxiety and fear.

ings of “happiness” dictated by exter-

Maintaining your contentment despite

nal inf luences. Pursue the lasting joy

external factors will give you a better

of contentment, and see where it takes

sense of clarity when determining the

you when you’re not looking.

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IT’S ALMOST ALWAYS NOT ABOUT YOU. Bad things happen, and they happen to everyone.

When they happen to you, the important thing is how you respond to them. Take a moment to think it through before having a knee jerk reaction.

your more difficult challenges. And even

happiness. But that doesn’t mean you

32

its sparkle and meaning, but learn to identify when you’ve let them overcome reason.

Redirect your inner voice to a more positive outlook.

Negative thoughts do nothing to make anything better.

december 2019

Benjamin Franklin may have summed it up nicely when he said, “Contentment makes poor men rich; discontent makes rich men poor.”

It’s that time again! Vote for your favorite businesses in

Beauty & Wellness, Dining, Entertainment, Healthcare, Home & Garden, Professional Services, and Retail.

best of

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voting opens on January 1 VOTE HERE livingmagazine.net/bestof2020

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wellness

2020 VISION NEW HORIZONS IN CORRECTIVE EYE SURGERY COULD PROVIDE A FRESH PERSPECTIVE FOR YOUR FUTURE

BY D AVI D B U I C E

A

fter years of wearing glasses or contacts, it ’s possible that you’ve considered putting them back into the bedside table for good—and electing to go ahead with some type of vision-correcting surgery.

The truth is that there’s no better time than now, because there are now several different surgical procedures, most of which focus on reshaping the cornea—the transparent front portion of the eye that refracts light, accounting for about two-thirds of the eye’s total optical power.

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wellness | 2020 VISION

Perhaps the three most popular options PRK, LASIK, and SMILE. All three are safe and effective ways to correct your vision, and each merits consideration.

PRK (PHOTOREFRACTIVE KERATECTOMY) Often considered the first generation of laser eye surgery, in this procedure the surgeon removes the outer layer of the cornea and then uses a cool excimer laser to reshape the layer to correct your vision.

PRK can be used to treat nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, and is a good option for patients with thin corneas or those suffering from chronic dry eyes.

Recovery may take up to six weeks for complete healing and the return of clear vision.

LASIK (LASER-ASSISTED STROMAL IN-SITU KERATOMILEUSIS) Considered to be the second generation of laser eye surgery, today it’s the most commonly performed laser eye procedure.

The surgeon uses a femtosecond laser to create a small flap of corneal tissue that is folded back, and with an excimer laser reshapes the underlying corneal tissue to correct your vision.

LASIK can treat mild to moderate nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Since a flap is created during the procedure, a certain

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amount of corneal thickness is required, and those with thin or irregular corneas may not be candidates for LASIK. Most patients will see an improvement in their vision within the first two days, but complete healing can take up to six months.

SMILE (SMALL INCISION LENTICULE EXTRACTION) SMILE represents the third generation of laser eye surgery, and unlike PRK and LASIK it does not involve the use of an excimer laser. Instead, the surgeon uses a femtosecond laser to remove a small amount of corneal tissue, which allows the cornea to reshape and improve your vision.

Recovery takes only one to two days, but SMILE’s primary downside is that it can only be used to correct certain types of nearsightedness.

Though vision surgery can have a huge impact on your quality of life, in the end choosing a corrective surgery for your vision should be a shared decision between you and your eye surgeon. Talk about advantages, disadvantages, and recovery—and if it seems like it’s right for you, go for it! You might find you end up with a whole new way of looking at the world.

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aesthetics

fo rw ard FAST

BY M E L I S S A C H I A N G MD, FAAD BOARD-CERTIFIED DERMATOLOGIST, SPRING, TX

LOW DOWNTIME TREATMENTS TO GET YOU LOOKING BETTER THAN YOUR BEST AS THE CLOCK TICKS DOWN ON END-OF-YEAR PATIES

Holiday season is fast approaching, and we all want to look and feel our best. But what if you want a little bit more than that?

Here are some options if you want a little extra help from your local plastic surgeon, dermatologist, or med spa.

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FOUR WEEKS BEFORE: Clarify your skin.

There are many ways to increase luminosity, lighten pigmentation, and address ruddiness. Consider superficial chemical peels to exfoliate the skin, lift brown spots, and refine texture. Intense pulsed light or laser also softens signs of summer damage by targeting freckles, sun spots, and blotchy redness. For fine lines and textural irregularities, microneedling with platelet rich plasma induces collagen production. For an added boost, combine microneedling with radiofrequency heat. Depending on your needs, these treatments are often used in combination. One thing they all have in common is that there is a lag between when you receive the treatment and when you see the results, and they do have minor downtime.

Banish sweaty armpits.

Par ties can be a lit tle stressf u l, and crowded rooms can heat up quickly. If you spend vital mental energy thinking about armpit sweating and how to avoid deodorant or sweat stains, consider reducing sweating permanently with a one-time procedure called miraDry, or temporarily with Botox.

Skin tightening.

If you’re noticing that your skin is sagging, energy-based modalities work by using heat to tighten the skin. Popular options include ultrasound energy and radiofrequency energy.

TWO WEEKS TO FOUR WEEKS BEFORE: Smooth out those wrinkles, especially the frown and worry lines.

Although the holiday season can be stressful, our faces don’t have to reveal the inner commotion. Botox and other neurotoxins soften frown and worry lines, but take a few days to a couple weeks to work their magic. Also, if you need an adjustment, you still have time before the party. Fillers work immediately and can wake up tired eyes and lift sagging cheeks, but you should allow one to two weeks to recover from swelling and bruising. You can minimize bruising by avoiding anti-inflammatories like aspirin and ibuprofen for one week before your procedure.

A WEEK TO A FEW DAYS BEFORE Bring on the glow.

Aquagold is a super-facial that plumps, hydrates, and diminishes fine lines. It should be done about a week before your event.

There are also no-downtime procedures that help to smooth and plump the skin. These include amped-up facials, such as dermal infusion or hydrafacials, which remove dead surface cells and infuse hydrating serums into the skin. They can be combined with laser genesis, which decreases pore size and increases luminiosity.

Make an appointment with an exper t.

Your consultant will give you his or her professional opinion about what would be most impactful for you based on your goals and your starting point. Remember—a little planning ahead of time will give you more options.

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aesthetics

f leece

NAVIDAD HOW TO BECOME THE UNDISPUTED CHAMP OF THIS YEAR’S UGLY SWEATER CONTEST

BY C H R I S T I B L E VI N S

Do you remember when your favorite aunt used to break out her favorite holiday sweater featuring a prominent felt cat wearing a Santa hat on the day after Thanksgiving? (Just me?) These days, such a sweater would be classified as a fantastic example of kitsch chic. But it takes more than kitschiness to win the most demonstrative of holiday traditions—the ugly sweater contest. To take home top honors, you have to throw everything you know about good taste out the window. Consider it the holiday equivalent of homecoming mums.

Less is NOT more—don’t be stingy now.

THINGS ARE ABOUT TO GET UGLY You can’t just throw some garland and mistletoe sprigs on your sweater and expect to win. You have to have a plan.

More importantly, you must have a theme. Some possible themes are: Christmas tree

GATHER YOUR GAUDY MATERIALS Some people purchase sweaters for an ugly holiday sweater contest off the rack. Those people should go on the naughty list! Still, you should be aware that the cost of supplies for creating a prize-winning holiday sweater can add up quickly.

Dreidel

With a little ingenuity, you can be the gaudiest person at the party without breaking the bank. A thrift store is a great place to find not only your sweater, but also unusual decorations and craft supplies. This will allow your sweater to stand out from the crowd even more. If sewing isn’t your forte, don’t let that get in your way of designing the ugly sweater of your dreams. Break out the hot glue gun.

A gingerbread house

HAVE A JOLLY GOOD TIME

Snow globe Menorah Santa stuck in a chimney Fireplace mantle

Christmas cookies A popular holiday movie, book, or song These sweaters can be as big as your imagination will allow. The fun doesn’t have to stop with a sweater. To give yourself a competitive edge in the judging, you can continue your tacky ensemble to include a festive headpiece, gloves, or sweatpants. Think of yourself as a

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holiday parade float entry. If your holiday sweater contest will have different categories, find out what they are and keep your eyes on the prize.

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If you’re really feeling the spirit of the season, host a sweater decoration party. Swing by your local thrift store on halfoff clothing day and purchase a supply of sweaters. Provide some basic and not-so-basic craft supplies and let your guests go to town on the pilling poly-blends. You could choose to set a time limit and award prizes, or you might simply want everyone to have the fun of creating a sweater. Your guests will then leave with a sweater to wear to their other holiday events.

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fashion

NIGHT LIGHT It wouldn’t be December without an array of yearend parties, most of them after hours and serving as an excuse to trot out your finest twinkling attire.

We’ve wrapped up a few options that’ll help you light up the room.

GAL MEETS GLAM COLLECTION

DIANA ALLOVER SEQUIN RUFFLE HEM JACKET $148

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P R I C E S A RE S U B J E C T TO C H A N G E AT A N Y TIME, PLEASE VISIT DILLARDS.COM FOR C U RRE N T P R I C I N G I N FO R M AT I O N .

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fashion

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K AY U N G E R

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fashion

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Give yourself the gift of Better Hearingfor the holidays!

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homestead

considerable CANDIDATES A FEW INTERESTING TARGETS FOR HOME IMPROVEMENT NEXT YEAR

BY A N N E T T E B R OOKS

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K

eeping your home updated makes it more enjoyable to live in now, and if you decide to move, more marketable.

While completely remodeling your kitchen and bathrooms are obvious options, as are large projects like whole-home makeovers, other improvements can also make it more livable and valuable.

december 2019

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homestead | CONSIDERABLE CANDIDATES

1

ENERGY EFFICIENCY and in-home air quality is an important priority for a growing number of homeowners and buyers. Start with a professional home audit that will identify what is causing your home to be energy inefficient, and learn about the steps you can take to remedy the situation. From installing radiant barrier products in the attic to installing replacement windows and new HVAC systems, not only will you feel more comfortable in your home, you’ll also be adding value.

2

CREATE AN OUTDOOR EXPERIENCE—a space where you can build life memories with friends and loved ones. Think about adding a deck with builtins, a patio with a firepit, an outdoor kitchen, or a pool.

These enhancements will not only increase your property’s livable square footage and make it more enjoyable for you and your family, it can add to your bottom line when selling.

3

GIVE YOUR FRONT DOOR AREA A FACELIFT. Don’t underestimate the power of an updated, eye-catching front door and covered entry. People tend to make up their minds about a house within the first seven seconds. A new front door and refresh of elements that have fallen out of fashion since the 80s or 90s can boost your home’s curb appeal as well as your pride of ownership.

4

NOT READY TO RENOVATE YOUR ENTIRE KITCHEN? Aside from painting the cabinets and getting new hardware, how about updating your backsplash and countertop? And what about that old island? Kitchen islands today don’t have to match the cabinets. Have fun as you explore designs that will work as new focal point. Add workspace, storage, and even a dining area to your kitchen with an island update. Consider adding a raised bar that frames the kitchen and acts as continuation of the countertop, hiding objects on the kitchen-facing side.

5

FEW INDIVIDUAL CHANGES can breathe life into your home like new flooring. Replace old-fashioned shiny kitchen and bathroom tiles for modern faux wood or faux stone tiles that come very close to looking like the real deal. Replace worn carpet with easy-to-maintain modern carpeting or with durable laminate flooring.

6

EVEN RELATIVELY SMALL, strategic tweaks can make huge differences in your space, both visually and from a livability perspective. As the new year arrives, look around your home, decide what you’d like to upgrade, then create a plan that will help you and your family get more out of your home as you push through the coming months.

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Burlway Gardens An Exceptional setting to honor and remember your Loved Ones.

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homestead

get

BAC K A R E M O D E L - A D D I T I O N T H AT R E F L ECTS I TS 5 0 S R O OTS W I T H T I M E L ES S N O D S

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homestead | GET BACK

A lofty stairway connector off the kitchen leads to the addition’s second story roof deck, with views of Austin’s famed Barton Creek Greenbelt.

AB OU T TH E AR CH ITECT: C h io c o De sign is an award - w in n in g arc h it e c ture f irm fo rme d in 20 0 5 by Prin c ip al , Jamie C h ioco.

Th e ir wo rk ran ge s f ro m in t imat e p rivat e re sid ence s t o massive in d u st rial ad ap t ive re u se p ro je cts, an d t h ey fo c u s o n c l ie n t ex p e c t at io n s in p ro cess an d re su l t , t h ro u gh ac t ive l ist e n in g, c o l l ab orat io n , an d in n ovat ive d e sign , b e l ievin g “e l evated d e sign e l evat e s l ive s.”

C hio c oDesign. c o m

Using a limited palette of materials like brick, white stucco, metal siding, and clear sealed western red cedar, the exterior of this Austin home, originally built in 1953, is a series of interconnecting rectilinear forms.

PROJECT AND DESCRIPTIONS BY CHIOCO DESIGN ORIGINAL STRUCTURE DESIGNED BY A. D. STENGER GENERAL CONTRACTING BY MIARS CONSTRUCTION PHOTOGRAPHY BY LARS FRAZER PHOTOGRAPHY

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homestead | GET BACK

The now-open kitchen is compact and efficient, with a custom blackened steel vent hood surround that also serves as a display shelf. Concrete countertops and glazed brick tile provide timeless and durable surfaces.

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EXPERIENCE THE FASCINATING

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homestead | GET BACK

Unlike many homes from the 1950s, this originally one story and L-shaped home felt unusually cramped and dark in its original format. The remodel/addition sought to retain the layout and augment it with a splitlevel addition as well as a three-sided clerestory to provide complete and even light and offer higher ceilings.

The bold blue and graphic pattern of the master bathroom is enhanced by covering both the floor and walls of the “wet room� with encaustic concrete tile. This area holds a large shower and a free standing tub, and is accented with gold plumbing fixtures throughout.

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adventure

christmas in

JACKSON HOLE SLEIGHS, SNOW, AND YULETIDE SPLENDOR BY AN N E T TE BROOKS

F

reshly fallen snow twinkled as daylight waned. The winter scene reminded me of past Christmases, long before I moved to Texas. Sinking into the leather seat of our rental car, my mind drifted to bygone years. I remember riding through snowy streets in the dark of night with my mom, dad, and sister to our church’s midnight Christmas Eve service, which was lit only with the golden glow of candles. How I loved holding my little candle, watching it flicker as we sang Christmas hymns.

Pulling up to Hotel Jackson jarred me from my reverie back to the present day.

We enjoyed dinner by the fireplace in our suite, content to simply kick back for the evening. Awakening in the morning snuggled in the hotel’s luxurious triple sheets, I reluctantly got up and swished the curtains open. There was a lone Mountain Chickadee perched in an evergreen outside our window, fluffed up to create its own down comforter as protection against the cold. It reminded us to bundle up before we set off walking to breakfast at Persephone Bakery Boulangerie and Café.

The cozy, French-inspired spot was bustling at 10 AM. Famished for no reason except, perhaps, being invigorated by

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adventure | CHRISTMAS IN JACKSON HOLE

the cool mountain air, we agreed to order hearty breakfasts that would tie us over until dinner.

So, with that excuse, we gorged on handmade pastries, croque madame, and quiche Lorraine, which came with a guilt-free side of local greens.

Fueled by strong cappuccinos, our brisk walk to the Town Square took no time at all.

Entwined with lights, monumental arches made of antlers collected from the nearby National Elk Refuge welcomed us to Jackson’s quaint Town Square. We spent a couple of hours strolling under covered boardwalks, checking out local shops, and doing a bit of last minute holiday shopping before driving to Teton Village to ride the aerial tram and gondola. As expected, the tram—located just outside Grand Teton National Park with a base elevation of 6,311 feet above sea level—was busy. As the enclosed gondola smoothly climbed to the top of Rendezvous Mountain at 10,459 feet, we were blown away by spectacular panoramic views of the mountains and valley while fellow tram riders vied for good photograph positions. Since it was blissfully calm at the summit, we made our way to the café for a mug of cocoa before riding back down to the base.

The next morning, taking full advantage of our break from the work-a-day world, my husband headed to the ski slopes after breakfast. Still recovering from a fractured foot, I opted for an immersive spa experience at the Amangani.

Having stayed at Aman resorts around the world, I knew I was in for luxe treatment. The indulgent three-hour Nourishing Journey began with a body polish and wrap, followed by massage, and completed with the Face Ritual. With each treatment building on the one before, I felt every drop of stress and worry dissipate from my body in the stillness of restorative calm. I left almost in a trance as the driver took me back to my hotel. There, I finished the day perfectly happy reading a novel and sipping hot tea as I waited for my husband to return.

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adventure | CHRISTMAS IN JACKSON HOLE

On our final day, we skipped the gingerbread house decorating event at the Wort Hotel since we were sans family. Instead, we took a bus from the Jackson Hole Greater Yellowstone Visitors Center to the National Elk Refuge for a horse-drawn sleigh ride. There are several sleigh rides to choose from in the area, but the excitement to be had while gliding among an elk herd numbering in the thousands was too tempting to pass up. Our knowledgeable guide explained why thousands of elk have migrated there for centuries and answered questions as we rode across the refuge huddled under warm blankets, spotting elk, eagles, bison, and a variety of birds along the way.

pictured (top to bottom) jackson hole town, Teton Mountain

That evening, we savored skillfully prepared prime steaks, 28-day wet-aged and butchered in-house, at The Restaurant at White Buffalo Club. Eschewing carbs after our overload a couple of days earlier, we chose grilled creole asparagus with lemon aioli and toasted almonds as well as wild mushrooms prepared with sake and chives as sides. Knowing we weren’t going to order dessert, we rationalized our way into splurging on an expensive bottle of cabernet which was worth every penny.

Back at Hotel Jackson—named “The Most Beautiful Hotel in Wyoming” by Architectural Digest—we relaxed in its handsome Sacajawea Library with a nightcap. Leisurely browsing through their robust collection of books about the region and chatting about the day, it was a refined ending to our stay in this haven nestled among the mountains.

As our plane banked away from Jackson Hole the next morning, we agreed there’s something special about a white Christmas, especially at nighttime when everything becomes still and quiet under a blanket of glistening snow. It evokes a peaceful, comforting feeling that everything will be alright in the world and with mankind, and a deep appreciation for the brief amount of time we have to experience the wonders of life.

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WHEN IT COMES TO YOUR FAMILY AND YOUR FINANCES

EXPERIENCE MATTERS!

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cuisine

from our table

TO YOURS

EACH YEAR, WE HERE AT LIVING LIKE TO ROUND UP A FEW HOLIDAY FAVORITES FROM SOME OF OUR FAMILY MEMBERS—RECIPES THAT REMIND US OF PERSONAL TRADITIONS AND STORIES. WE’RE HAPPY TO SHARE A FEW OF THEM WITH YOU THIS MONTH.

COCA-COLA CAKE

CREAM CHEESE CORN CASSEROLE

MAKES: 6-8 SERVINGS | TIME: 50 MINUTES

MAKES: 6-8 SERVINGS | TIME: 35 MINUTES

“MY MAIDEN NAME IS BLACK, AS IN BLACK BROTHERS C O C A - C O L A B O T T L I N G C O M PA N Y, I N C L A R KS V I L L E , T E X A S . ”

“ T H I S H A S B E E N A FA M I LY FAV O R I T E F O R YEARS AND IS SUPER EASY TO MAKE!”

for the salad 10 ounces of a 12 ounce can of Coca-Cola | 1 box yellow cake mix | 1 box instant vanilla pudding | 4 eggs | ¾ cup oil | chopped pecans

INGREDIENTS: 4 oz. canned green chilis, chopped | 3 cans of corn, drained | ½ cup mayonnaise | 8 oz. cream cheese | 5 or 6 shakes of Frank’s Red Hot Sauce | ¼ tsp. salt | 1/8 tsp. pepper | 1 tsp. white sugar | ½ cup shredded Cheddar or Colby-Jack cheese | additional shredded cheese for sprinkling

ABBI E ANDREWS, SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

For the glaze 1 cup powdered sugar | ¼ teaspoon vanilla | 2 leftover ounces of Coca-Cola MIX all ingredients and pour into DIRECTIONS: greased bundt cake pan.

BAKE at 350 ˚F for 45 to 50 minutes, until toothpick comes out clean.

INVERT cake onto cooling plate and wait about 15 minutes.

MAKE the glaze by mixing all glaze ingredients together.

Once the cake is just warm but not hot, spoon the glaze over the cake.

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MIMI FILBIN, SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

PREHEAT oven to 325 ˚F. In a large microwave DIRECTIONS: safe bowl, add corn, cream cheese, and green chilis. COOK in microwave for 1 or 2 minutes, until cream cheese is melted. STIR thoroughly, adding in Frank’s pepper sauce, salt, pepper, sugar, and cheese. SPRAY a 9” x 9’’ baking pan with cooking spray, then add corn and cream cheese mixture to pan.

SPRINKLE with additional cheese to taste.

BAKE for about 35 minutes, then serve.

cuisine | FROM OUR TABLE TO YOURS

APPLESAUCE CAKE ANGELINA MUMFORD

MAKES: 12 SERVINGS | TIME: 50 MINUTES INGREDIENTS: ½ cup shortening | 2 cups sugar | 1 large egg | 1½ cup thick unsweetened applesauce | 2½ cups sifted flour | 1½ teaspoon baking soda | 1½ teaspoon salt | ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon | ½ teaspoon ground cloves | ½ teaspoon ground allspice | ½ cup water | 1 cup chopped walnuts or raisins PREHEAT oven to 350 ˚F. CREAM DIRECTIONS: shortening and sugar until fluffy. BEAT in egg, then applesauce. MIX and sift flour, baking soda, salt, and spices. STIR in, alternating with water. Stir in walnuts or raisins. BAKE 45 to 50 minutes in a greased and floured 13” x 9” x 2” oblong cake pan. Cool on rack and frost if desired.

NANA’S SOUR CREAM JELL-O SALAD

CHRISTMAS STRUDEL

MAKES: 10 SERVINGS | TIME: 45 MINUTES + COOLING

MAKES: 2 STRUDELS + FILLINGS | TIME: 45 MINUTES + RISE

“ I ' M FA I R LY C E R TA I N I ' V E H A D T H I S E V E R Y C H R I S T M A S O F MY LIFE. MY MOTHER MADE IT ALL THROUGH THE 1960S, 1 9 7 0 S , A N D A L L T H E WAY U P T O T H E Y E A R B E F O R E S H E PA S S E D A WAY I N 2 0 1 5 . T H E N I T O O K O V E R . I T ' S R E D A N D P R E T T Y A N D L O O KS G R E AT O N T H E TA B L E F O R C H R I S T M A S D I N N E R . F O R S O M E R E A S O N , D E C E M B E R I S T H E O N LY T I M E I SERVE THIS… BUT I THINK ABOUT IT ALL YEAR LONG.”

“ T H I S WA S M Y M O T H E R - I N - L A W ’ S R E C I P E .

Y O U C A N C H A N G E I T U P W I T H A VA R I E T Y O F D I F F E R E N T F I L L I N G S I F YO U ’ R E A F T E R E I T H E R S W E E T O R S AV O R Y. I T S L I C E S U P I N T O 1 ” P I E C E S A N D C A N A L S O B E F R O Z E N F O R L AT E R . H AV E A MERRY CHRISTMAS!”

MICHELLE PARADISE, SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

INGREDIENTS: 2 boxes strawberry Jell-O, one large and one small | 2 cups boiling water | 2 (10 oz.) boxes frozen strawberries | 1 (20 oz.) can crushed pineapple | 1 (16 oz.) container sour cream DIRECTIONS:

MIX boiling water with Jell-O in a large bowl.

ADD

strawberries and pineapple, and all the juices from the fruit go in too.

POUR half this mixture in a 13×9 pan and leave the other half

in the bowl. Put both in the refrigerator.

SPREAD sour cream over

it, once the bottom layer has just jelled.

POUR thickened Jell-O

from the bowl carefully over the sour cream. way until the all the Jell-O is firm, then serve.

CHILL the rest of the

ERICA LYLE, SENIOR ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVE

INGREDIENTS: 3½ cups flour | pinch of salt | ½ cup margarine, melted | 1 cup milk | 1 packet yeast | ¼ cup warm water | 4 Tbsp. sugar DIRECTIONS: PROOF yeast in a cup with warm water and sugar.

MELT margarine (or use your choice of oils) and add milk in a measuring cup. COMBINE flour and salt in a large bowl, then make a well in the flour and pour in the liquid, stirring until incorporated.

COVER with a damp cloth and let stand in a warm place to rise.

DIVIDE the dough, after rising, into two pieces and roll out into an oblong shape. Cut 1” slits on the long edges. ADD your choice of fillings. (Some ideas: sausage with green chili peppers, chopped ham and cheddar, pie filling and cream cheese.) FOLD the short ends toward the middle, fold the long ends in, and braid the slit pieces.Sprinkle with toffee bits.

TUCK the final piece to seal the loaf.

BAKE at 350°F for about 45 minutes, or until golden brown.

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all the

TRIMMINGS WHETHER HOSTING AT YOUR OWN HOME OR HEADING OUT TO A HOLIDAY PARTY, THESE RECIPES ARE EASY TO PREPARE AND SURE TO BE WELCOME ADDITIONS TO THE POTLUCK TABLE.

BY M E L I S S A TATE

TIPS AND TRICKS Nobody ever thinks to bring salad to a potluck but everyone wants it, whether they know it or not. Be a hero, bring the greens!

TATE FARMS WINTER SALAD

WITH BALSAMIC HONEY MUSTARD DRESSING MAKES: ABOUT 4 SERVINGS TIME: 30 MINUTES INGREDIENTS: for the salad 3 cups mixed salad greens | ½ cup dried cranberries | ¼ small red onion, sliced thin | ½ cup candied pecans | ¼ cup pumpkin seeds | ¼ cup French’s fried onions |2 oz. goat cheese for the dressing 3 Tbsp. olive oil | 1½ Tbsp. pure, unfiltered honey | 1 Tbsp. honey dijon mustard | 1 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar | salt and pepper

PHOTOS & FOOD BY

MELISSA TATE To follow her cooking adventures visit MelissaTateTX .com or find her on Instagram at

@MELISSATATETX

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DIRECTIONS: IN A SMALL GLASS JAR, combine dressing ingredients. Shake well and set aside.

IN A LARGE BOWL, combine salad ingredients.

DRIZZLE with dressing and toss to combine right before serving.

cuisine | ALL THE TRIMMINGS

TIPS AND TRICKS

SPINACH AND ARTICHOKE DIP

This dip can be served straight from the baking dish warm or transferred to a serving platter and served at room temperature.

MAKES: ABOUT 4 CUPS TIME: 30 MINUTES INGREDIENTS: 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened | ½ cup mayonnaise | ¼ cup sour cream | ½ cup plus 1 Tbsp. Parmesan cheese, grated | ½ cup plus 1 Tbsp. Romano cheese, grated | 1 (14 oz.) can of artichoke hearts, drained and chopped | 1 (9 oz.) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained | ¼ cup mozzarella cheese, grated DIRECTIONS: PREHEAT oven to 350 ˚F. Prepare a small baking dish with non-stick spray. IN A MIXING BOWL, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, ½ cup Parmesan, and ½ cup Romano cheese.

STIR in artichokes and spinach. Spoon mixture into baking dish. SPRINKLE with mozzarella cheese and remaining Parmesan and Romano cheeses.

BAKE for 25 minutes until cheese is browned and bubbly.

SERVE with tiny toast, soft sour dough bread, or crackers.

SALTINE CRACKER

TOFFEE

MAKES: ABOUT 40 PIECES TIME: 20 MINUTES + COOL INGREDIENTS: 1 standard sleeve of saltine crackers | 1 cup butter | ¾ cup brown sugar | 3 cups semisweet chocolate chips | 1 package (8 oz.) milk chocolate English toffee bits TIPS AND TRICKS PREHEAT oven to 350 ˚F. LINE a 15”x10” baking pan with parchment paper or foil.

ARRANGE crackers in a single layer, making sure all touch.

OVER MEDIUM HEAT, melt butter. Stir in brown sugar. Bring to a boil, then cook until sugar is dissolved, about 4 minutes. Slowly pour mixture over crackers.

BAKE tray for 8 minutes or until bubbly.

Remove from oven, let set for 1 minute, then immediately cover with chocolate chips.

PLACE baking sheet back in oven for 1 or 2 minutes until chocolate chips become shiny.

REMOVE from oven and spread chocolate chips onto crackers. Sprinkle with toffee bits.

LET COOL, then cover and refrigerate until set, approximately 1 to 2 hours. Break into pieces and serve.

TOFFEE WILL KEEP IN AN AIRTIGHT CONTAINER FOR UP TO A WEEK.

RECIPE ORIGINALLY INSPIRED BY TASTE OF HOME “SALTINE TOFFEE BARK,” MODIFIED BY MELISSA TATE.

DIRECTIONS:

THIS RECIPE CAN BE DOUBLED AND BAKED IN A 21”X15 PAN”.

IT’S PERFECT FOR POTLUCKS BUT ALSO AS AN ADDITION TO HOMEMADE HOLIDAY GIFTS.

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our picks | LIVING LIKES WISE

A SMATTERING

of stuff

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

If, like us, you’re the type of person who forgets to change your toothbrush head about as regularly as you forget to change your air filters, consider plucky hygienic upstart quip, which provides you with a fancy electric toothbrush then keeps you supplied with new brush heads, batteries, toothpaste, and floss at regular intervals.

STARTER KITS FROM $25, GETQUIP.COM CUT IT OUT It’s true that they’re cranking out more inventive greeting cards than ever these days, but there’s nothing quite like putting your personal touch on the whole affair, and these little printer-looking gizmos from Cricut let you do just that, die-cutting cards, shapes, signs, and scrapbook bits from patterns you load into it with your computer.

MACHINES FROM $199 TO $349, TINYURL.COM/LMCRICUT DUBBA DUBBA Hollywood’s famous Bros. have a new logo in advance of their centennial anniversary in 2023, and you’ll start seeing it before their movies early next year. It’s a little bit taller, a little bit flatter, and drops the Warner Bros. “ribbon.” The last time the logo was significantly changed was in 1984, though the general style dates all the way back to 1948. And now you know!

C RI C UT

ON THE BIG AND LITTLE SCREEN, AND AT WARNERBROS.COM OUTSIDE THE BREAD BOX

DAGS MEJAN

QUI P

The fine folks at Eastern Standard Provisions Company are cranking out deliciously doughy hand-made all-natural artisanal pretzels in shapes and sizes that might just find themselves right at home at a holiday party, and they’ve got pretzel packs that come with flavored salts and sugars to please any chowhound. They’re even one of Oprah’s Favorite Things!

PACKS STARTING AT $12.99, ESPROVISIONS.COM THE SCIENCE OF SLEEP

EAST ERN STAN DARD PROVI S I ON S COMPA NY

WA RNE R B R O S .

Dagsmejan, which develops sleepwear to keep you the right temperature all night, takes its name from Swedish word referring to the last days of winter when the warmth of the sun melts the snow even when the temperature is below freezing. Combining natural fibers with sleep research and textile engineering, their premium sleepwear is scientifically proven to boost sleep comfort.

PIECES FROM $99, TINYURL.COM/LMDAGSMEJAN

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december 2019

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