Living Magazine May 2021

NOURISH

M AY 2 0 2 1

GROW & DEVELOP

ARLINGTON / MANSFIELD GRAND PRAIRIE

+

OUR ANNUAL SPECIAL SECTION

DENTAL HEALTH ARLINGTON HONORS LOCAL PHILANTHROPIST Dr. Amy Schoening Making a Difference for Arlington Families

female foodies

southern charm

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A N O D TO T E X A S B LO G G E R S

G I R LS ’ T R I P TO N ATC H I TO C H ES

C H E R I S H T H E T H I N G S YO U LOV E

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2020

2021

best of ARLINGTON & MANSFIELD READERS’ CHOICE

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contents | LIVING MAGA ZINE inside this issue

MAY 2021 | n o u r i s h

39 | l e a d i n g W O M E N

on the cover 24 I AMY SCHOENING PROFILED 36 | DR. STEVEN THOMAS 40 | BURLWAY GARDENS 41 | STORYBOOK REALTY, MASSAGE ENVY 42 | CITYVIEW AUDIOLOGY & HEARING AIDS, INC. 43 | PHYSICIAN'S AGELESS SOLUTIONS 44 | KIM LE, DDS, MS 45 | ACCENT ON YOU PLASTIC SURGERY AND MED SPA 46 | JODY KAUTZ. RE/MAX 47 | MANSFIELD FAMILY DENTISTRY 48 | THE FAMILY LAW FIRM OF DONNA SMIEDT 49 | KLEIMAN EVENGELISTS EYE CENTERS OF TEXAS 50 | DANCE ACADEMY OF MANSFIELD

features

51 | LANDRY DESIGNS 52 | INSTITUTE OF HORMONAL BALANCE AND BOITE MEDICAL

38 S U C C E S S F U L S E A R C H I N G

53 | TWENTY-TWO REALTY 54 | KOS/DANCHAK AUDIOLOGY & HEARING AIDS 55 | THERE{4} TEEN GATHERING 56 | AOA ORTHOPEDIC SPECIALISTS 57 | THE FAMILY LAW OFFICES OF STEPHANIE FOSTER 58 | METHODIST MANSFIELD WOUND CARE AND HYPERBARIC CENTER

Tips for buying a new home

60 R E S O R T R E A D Y R O U N D U P

Five sunny must-haves for a chic summer

70

LOCAL ENTREPRENEUR

Dr. Iris Ruben

80 H E R B H E AV E N

86

Growing, cooking, and preserving tips

in every issue 18

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

66 WELLNESS RELATIONSHIP RX BONE UP

20

SOCIAL CALENDAR

22

BEST BETS

72 AESTHETICS GET A LEG UP

26

FRUIT OF THE VINE

74 HOMESTEAD PLAYING AROUND

28

TALK OF THE TOWN

34

LIVING PET CLUB

82 ADVENTURE SOUTHERN CHARM

90

LIVING LIKES

86 CUISINE FOOD FOLLOWING

CLEAR THE AIR

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letter from the publisher

“Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.”

Proverbs 31:30 This is an exciting month for me.

Not only is it Mother’s Day and a time to reflect on the wonderful woman who raised me and my own rich mothering journey. But it’s our annual leading women edition when we take time to honor the phenomenal women who help make Arlington, Mansfield, and Grand Prairie unlike anywhere else in the country. These are women who demonstrate you really can have it all and do it all—with grace and heart. We enjoyed getting to know many of you and tell your stories. But we also want to give a big shout-out to all the women in our community who model, mentor, and motivate every day. You inspire us!

This month is also special to me because it marks the 18th anniversary of the magazine. The past 18 years have been an amazing ride with blessings around every corner. Our little area of the world has experienced unprecedented growth but every day I see ways that we’ve maintained our small-town heart and priorities.

It’s been a blessing to meet many of you, during this journey, and tell the unique stories of our area. God has truly blessed! I look forward to the next 18 years.

And Happy Mother’s Day, y’all!

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

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MAILBOX • INBOX • ONLINE

letters from

O U R M AYO R S mayor

MICHAEL EVANS

I hope you were as excited as I was by the announcement last month of the collaboration between the City of Mansfield, Methodist Mansfield Medical Center and the Texas Tech Health Sciences Center School of Nursing to locate a satellite campus here in Mansfield. Even though I am a Baylor grad (Smile), the benefits of this alliance is far reaching and will have a major impact on our community in the years ahead.

It is no secret that our state is facing a tremendous shortage in nurses and other essential health care professionals. Unfortunately, this is happening at time when the population in our state is growing and aging. We need these nurses in our hospitals and doctor’s offices to provide high-quality care and help us build a healthier community.

mayor

We also need to provide our young people with educational opportunities right in our own backyard. Students in Mansfield ISD and the surrounding municipalities will benefit from having this satellite campus at Methodist Mansfield.

So as you can see, this announcement represents a win-win for Mansfield and warrants our enthusiasm and optimism for the future. As a Baylor alum I would be remise if I did not say, “Congratulations to the Baylor Men’s Basketball team for winning the NCAA tournament and to the Baylor Women’s Basketball team for making a great run as well.” In closing, let’s keep up the great spirit of unity and optimism in our cities.

RON JENSEN

Summer is upon us and Grand Prairie is moving back to our new normal. Our Farmers Market, on Main Street in downtown, is ranked #1 in Texas by the American Farmland Trust and now open Saturdays from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. selling delicious, farm fresh fruits and veggies, as well as sweets, candles, cooking oils, spices and more. The Grand Prairie Library system’s Summer Reading Club kicks off June 5 at the Main Library, 901 Conover, followed by a summer full of interesting classes, programs and activites designed to engage, connect and educate. The horses are running at Lone Star Park, kids are playing at PlayGrand Adventures, all ages are finding family friendly fun at Main Event Entertainment, boats are floating at Lake Joe Pool, campers are glamping in yurts at Loyd Park, and people are staring in amazement at Ripley’s Believe

mayor

MANS FIELD

GR AND P RAIRIE It Or Not and Louis Tussaud’s Palace of Wax. And it is summer all year at Epic Waters Indoor Water Park. From shopping at Living Spaces, IKEA, Grand Prairie Outlet Mall to Traders Village, people will be enjoying a more normal summer while still being smart about their health, masks and social distance. Come join us in Grand Prairie, recently named #3 Best City of Jobs in Texas and #4 Happiest City inTexas by the researchers at WalletHub.com.

Live Life Grand,

JEFF WILLIAMS

This month as Living Magazine honors some of Arlington’s leading women, I want to take time to say “thank you” to the many outstanding community leaders who work every day to truly make this America’s Dream City. From raising kids to running major corporations, from practicing medicine and law to innovating in industry, from molding young minds in the classroom to working with our local sports teams, from running small businesses to serving in law enforcement, and more, Arlington women are giving of themselves every day to inspire and support, care and sustain throughout our community and we can’t thank you enough.

Things are really looking up on the COVID front. I want to thank all of you who’ve taken the time to

AR L I NGTON get vaccinated and of course our many healthcare workers who administered vaccines and those who helped organize the efforts. I know we’re all looking forward to a time when we can return to life as usual in Arlington with our restaurants at full capacity, our stadiums brimming with fans, and our schools and businesses back up to 100%.

It’s been a long year. But the citizens of Arlington came together to make it a time we’ll never forget with neighbor helping neighbor, businesses innovating new ways to serve their customers, and customers going out of their way to keep those local businesses alive. It was a community-wide effort, and it truly made a difference. Thank you!

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community | S OCI A L CA LENDA R

may

4 - JUNE 4

ROCK CLIMBNG - MINI CAMP A r l i n g to n P a r ks a n d R e c re a t i o n

Campers learn basic rock climbing techniques during this great way to build self-esteem and achieve physical fitness for kids at all levels. Ages 6-12. 1pm-4pm. Elsie Odom Athletic Center. 1601 NE Green Oaks. Visit our website for fee detail and registration.

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

ALL MONTH LONG

M AY 8

you! Get the most flavorful peaches, pecans,

LEVITT PAVILION

DOLLAR DAY

gourmet jams and more. Pick up your order

Lo n e S ta r P a r k - G ra n d P ra i r i e

when The Peach Truck Tour comes rolling

Check out this season’s opening acts to kick off 50 free concerts on the lawn. You don’t want to miss them. Open seating is available on the lawn. Please bring blankets and lawn chairs. You also can bring your own food and coolers with beverages, including alcohol, but no glass containers, please. Parking is free. Visit our website for performers and times. Founders Plaza, 100 W. Abram St.

Enjoy an afternoon playing the ponies! General Admission, hot dogs, soft drinks, popcorn, Lone Star Programs, beer…all for $1 each. Live entertainment with Limelight Band. For tickets and more information visit our website.

into Hillside Village in Cedar Hill, 305 FM

A r l i n g to n

L E V I T T PAV I L I O N A R L I N GTO N . O R G

A r l i n g to n

SHAKE BODY DANCE FITNESS Hillside Village - Cedar Hill

Everybody’s favorite instructor, Cassandra Pierson is back with her very own dance format! It’s called Shake Body Dance Fitness and includes Hip-Hop, Salsa and Afrobeat. Dance those calories away on Saturday mornings in the Village Green at 9am. 305 FM 1382, Cedar Hill.

M AY 8

MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH M a n sf i e l d

Join us for a Mother’s Day Brunch and mimosas along with music. 10am-12pm.

Family Time Mansfield, 1791 Farm to Market Road 1187. Contact 682-220-9492 or visit our website.

FA M I LY T I M E M A N S F I E L D . C O M

LIVINGMAGAZINE.NET

M AY 8 A N D 2 2

MOBILE PET ADOPTION EVENT

S AT U R D AYS I N M AY

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

Adoptions will be at the Petsmart® in South Arlington, 203 E. I-20 (Arlington Highlands) 10:30am-3:30pm. Scheduled events are subject to cancellation without notice due to weather conditions (heat, cold, storms, etc.) for the safety and protection of adoptable pets, volunteers, and staff.

1382. The pre order deadline is May 25 at 11:59pm. Pre orders only, no walk up sales.

Pick up date is May 30, 12pm-1:30pm. To place order visit our website.

THEPEACHTRUCK.COM M AY 3 1 - J U N E 4

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

Full day camps offer a new theme each week with games, crafts and other fun activities.

Campers also may swim at least once a week at a nearby pool. Campers should bring a sack lunch each day. An afternoon snack is provided. The camp is for ages 5-12. Each family will receive a parent’s packet at registration outlining activities. The Beacon Rec Center, 1100 Mansfield Webb Rd. For details, rates and registration visit our website.

M AY 2 5

THE PEACH TRUCK TOUR PREORDER DEADLINE Hillside Village - Cedar Hill

Order online from The Peach Truck partners directly with farmers to bring fresh and phenomenal foods off the farm and straight to

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

see more e vents in your area on LIVINGMAGAZINE.NET

Sign up for free weekly watering advice to help manage your lawn’s thirst this summer. Advice is based on local weather station data. After signing up, you will receive email reminders telling you what your lawn needs every week. Join the 11,000+ people already using the service today!

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our picks | BES T BE T S

PRE M IE R I N G IN M AY

MAY 28 // CRUELLA

THIS M ONTH IN M OVIE HISTORY

Set in London amidst the punk rock revolution, Cruella follows a young grifter named Estella, a clever and creative girl determined to make a name for herself in the world of design. One day, Estella’s fl air for fashion catches the eye of the Baroness von Hellman, played by Emma Thompson. Their relationship sets in motion a course of events and revelations that will cause Estella to embrace her wicked side and become the raucous, fashionable, and revenge-bent Cruella.

MAY 16, 1986 // TOP GUN

IN THEATERS AND ON DISNEY+

TH I S M O N T H ’ S M U S IC

TOM CRUISE, KELLY MCGILLIS, VAL KILMER, ANTHONY EDWARDS DIR. TONY SCOTT (CRIMSON TIDE) If the continued delayed release (now November 19, 2021) of the sequel to this ‘80s hit Top Gun: Maverick has you in a tailspin, grab your aviators and some popcorn and watch the original.

W H AT TO REA D

MAY 11 // BRAT: AN ‘80S STORY

BY ANDREW MCCARTHY

MAY 7 // JACK INGRAM, MIRANDA LAMBERT, JON RANDALL THE MARFA TAPES

In his memoir Brat: An ‘80s Story, McCarthy focuses his gaze on that singular moment in time.

The result is a revealing look at coming of age in a maelstrom, reckoning with conflicted ambition, innocence, addiction, and masculinity.

MAY 6 // SUFJAN STEVENS CONVOCATIONS

MAY 7 // AMY WINEHOUSE AMY WINEHOUSE AT THE BBC

Filled with personal revelations of innocence lost to heady days in Hollywood with John Hughes and an iconic cast of characters, Brat is a surprising and intimate story of an outsider caught up in a most unwitting success.

MAY 21 // ROBERT FINLEY SHARECROPPER’S SON

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Most people know Andrew McCarthy from his movie roles in Pretty in Pink, St. Elmo’s Fire, Weekend at Bernie’s, and Less than Zero, and as a charter member of Hollywood’s Brat Pack. That iconic group of ingenues and heartthrobs included Rob Lowe, Molly Ringwald, Emilio Estevez, and Demi Moore and has come to represent both a genre of fi lm and an era of pop culture.

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Imagery from Cruella (2021), Disney. Movie image from Top Gun (1986), Paramount Pictures. Book cover from Brat: An ‘80s Story by Andrew McCarthy (2021), Grand Central Publishing, with description excerpt from the publisher. Album covers and all other materials are presented for non-commercial illustrative purposes.

ON THE COVER

DR. AMY SCHOENING’S LEGACY OF LOVE

SCHOENING DENTAL CLINIC DEDICATION

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

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DENTAL HEALTH ARLINGTON When Nancy Blinn took the reigns as executive director of Dental Health Arlington in 2014, Dr. Amy Schoening was already a longtime volunteer and board member for the nonprofit dental organization. “Dr. Schoening and her husband, Andrew, have been some of our biggest financial backers for over twenty years. She also donates her time caring for patients and even offered to stay on in her position as president of the board of directors to help me get my footing as executive director.” Nancy said.

DHA is a non-profit organization that has been providing dental treatment for low-income individuals for little to no out of pocket cost for almost 30 years in Tarrant County. The clinic serves almost 3000 patients a year and DHA’s award winning SMILES program provides dental education, screening, fluoride, sealants, and toothbrushes (sometimes the only one kids have ever owned) to approximately 10,000 at risk Arlington elementary school children annually.

In 2017 DHA learned they would have to relocate from their longtime location to the United Way Human Service Center in central Arlington.

While the move would allow them to reach their demographics group more easily, the suddenness of the move created problems. “A move like that can be very expensive and concerning without the time to launch a proper capital campaign but the Schoenings were quick to donate the initial funds which led to other businesses and individuals matching. With the move completed, we have been able to continue providing quality care for our patients in need. After the opening of the new facility, the decision was then made to name the clinic portion of the business after the Schoenings in appreciation for all they have meant to DHA over the years.” Nancy said.

MEET DR. SCHOENING Dr. Amy Schoening feels privileged to be able to work in a career she loves and make a difference

“ D r. S c h o e n i n g a n d h e r h u s b a n d , A n d re w, h a ve b e e n s o m e of our biggest financ i a l b a c ke rs fo r ove r t we n t y ye a rs . S h e also donates her time c a r i n g fo r p a t i e n t s a n d eve n of fe re d t o s t a y on in her position as p re s i d e n t of t h e b o a rd of d i re c t o rs t o h e l p m e g e t m y fo o t i n g a s exe c u t i ve d i re c t o r. ”

for families in her community. “I have the skill to truly transform someone’s life by giving them a smile they can feel confident about, this is what has made dentistry my passion for 25 years.

Dentistry also allows me to build relationships, not only with my patients but with their entire families and those relationships have made it a positive journey for everyone involved. I have experience and enjoyed a large, busy practice but recently I have slowed things down with a smaller, more intimate boutique style practice in Mansfield. Having a supportive family and team that have stayed with me for the duration has allowed me to refocus on my visions of caring for individuals one patient at a time. It also gives me time to devote to Dental Health Arlington and other interests that are important to me. We welcome new patients that will appreciate this style of practice and we are here to help with all of your dental needs.”

LOVE THAT SMILE CASINO NIGHT SATURDAY, JUNE 26, 2021 AT AMERICAN AIRLINES CR SMITH MUSEUM

Dr. Schoening believes in taking the time to tune into each patient and her patients hail her as a dentist who pays attention to the smallest detail, always taking the time to treat them as respected individuals. She and her husband, Andrew, are very proud of their two grown children who both graduated from The Oakridge School in Arlington and one has graduated from college and the other is attending now. Dr. Schoening enjoys reading, yoga and traveling to a favorite location in Big Sky, Montana.

• DINNER • L I V E MUSIC • DA NCING • GA MING • SIL EN T AUCT ION VISIT DENTALHEALTHARLINGTON.ORG TO PURCHASE A PARTY IN PLACE PACKAGE OR A TICKET TO ATTEND IN PERSON (LIMITED CAPACITY) OR TO INQUIRE ABOUT SPONSORING THIS WORTHWHILE EVENT.

CONTACT:

Find out more at schoeningdds.com and dentalhealtharlington.org.

1757 Broad Park Circle Nor th Suite 101 | Mansfield, T X 76063

w w w.schoeningdds.com

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community | FRUIT OF THE V INE

THE AMAZING CALLING OF BEING

“Mom”

BY TRILLIA NEWBELL

he other morning, I woke up while my children were still sleeping and began to pray. I started thinking about my identity. What am I? Who am I? As I settled into my prayer time, I began to rejoice at the thought that I am a mother. It is part of who I am. To my children, it is my name — Mom. The modern mom doesn’t always like to be identified as a mother.

We are “liberated.” We have names and identities of much greater significance. Even the Christian mommy would prefer to keep her mom identity in check. “I am a Christian first and foremost,” we might say. This is so true and so good. We are first and foremost identified as united to Christ. He has redeemed us, and therefore our identities are wrapped up in his righteousness. But this doesn’t mean we have to deny the significance of being a mother as we embrace who we are in Jesus.

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Maybe what we need is not to shed our mommy title, rather see the true significance of it. One great example can be found in the biblical account of Timothy. Timothy was the son of a Jewish woman who was also a believer, Eunice, and a Greek father (Acts 16:1, 2). Though we don’t seem to know much about his father, we get some crucial information about his mother.

Timothy was a young pastor and Paul’s child in the faith (1 Timothy 1:2). Paul loved Timothy for his faithfulness to the sacred texts and his friendship (2 Timothy 3:15, 10-11). When everyone had abandoned Paul during his imprisonment in Rome, Timothy remained faithful to Paul through prayers and tears (2 Timothy 1:3-5). Paul was greatly affected by the ministry and love of his apprentice. And Paul attributes Timothy’s faith and character to his mother’s and his grandmother’s faithful witness.

Paul references the legacy of these women in two places. First, we see it when he is thanking God for Timothy and his faith. He reminds him that his sincere faith dwelt first in his grandmother Lois and then his mother Eunice, and he says, “now, I am sure, dwells in you as well” (2 Timothy 1:5). Later on, Paul encourages Timothy to stay strong in the Word, not being deceived, and under the persecution that surely comes from those who follow Christ (2 Timothy 3:12-14). And yet again, he reminds him that he learned and firmly believed the Word from a young age, “from childhood” (2 Timothy 3:15).

Moms, this is very significant. Eunice and Lois invested in Timothy to teach him about God. The gospel was passed on to Timothy and from Timothy to other generations. And even more importantly, Timothy now enjoys the benefits of being with Christ forever.

God has called us, Moms, to train up our children in the way they should go (Proverbs 22:6). There really couldn’t be a more significant calling than to pass on the legacy of our faith. The Great Commission applies to us, in our homes with our children. Our Christ-identity is to be poured out into the lives of our children. We don’t need to shed this God-given title of “Mom.” We are called to maximize what it means for the glory of Christ. We can embrace our role without grumbling and with the full assurance of God’s sovereign goodness. God promises that as we shine light into this world (and that includes our kids), we will know that our labor was not in vain (Philippians 2:12-16).

We may never know the significance of our Mommy-title this side of heaven, but we know Lois’ and Eunice’s, and we know that generations of people have been saved as a result of their faithfulness to teach one.

Trillia Newbell is the author of several books, including A Great Cloud of Witnesses, Sacred Endurance, If God Is For Us, Fear and Faith, and the children’s books Creative God, Color ful Us, and God’s Very Good Idea. When she isn’t writing, she’s encouraging and supporting other writers as an Acquisitions Editor at Moody Publishers. Trillia is married to her be s t friend, Thern. They reside with their two children near Nashville, TN. You can find her at TrilliaNewbell. com and follow her on Instagram at @trillianewbell.

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community | TA LK OF THE TOW N

A RLINGTON / M A NSFIELD / GR A ND PR A IRIE

O

UT OF MANY, ONE: PORTRAITS OF AMERICA’S IMMIGRANTS , BY PRESIDENT GEORGE W. BUSH brings to the forefront the stories of individuals who exemplify our proud history as a nation of immigrants.

Through 43 powerful four-color portraits — personally painted by the President himself — and their accompanying stories, Out of Many, One reminds us of the countless ways in which America has been strengthened by those who have come here in search of a better life.

A public exhibition of the portraits and an in-depth look at the many issues surrounding the immigration debate in our country will run from April 20, 2021, through January 3, 2022, at the George W. Bush Presidential Center in Dallas.

Representing numerous cultures and nearly every region of the world, the men and women featured in Out of Many, One speak to the hard work, determination, and unfaltering optimism that are inherent in both the immigrant spirit and the spirit of America. The book’s title was inspired by the Great Seal of the United States, which for generations has declared E PLURIBUS UNUM — “out of many, one” — to remind us of America’s exceptional ability to unite individuals from all backgrounds and cultures as one nation.

As our country continues to grapple with the complexities of immigration policy, Out of Many, One seeks to put us face-to-face with immigrants themselves so that we may hear their stories and better understand what America has given to them and what they have given to America.

Timed tickets are available for entry from 10 AM to 2:30 PM Tuesday through Saturday. Tickets must be purchased online prior to arrival.

To learn more abou t w here to purchase the book , exhibit safety measures, and to purchase tickets visit, Bushcenter.org/exhibits-and-events/exhibits/2021/ out-of-many-one.

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President Bush writes in the introduction to Out of Many, One :

While I recognize that immigration can be an emotional issue, I reject the premise that it is a partisan issue. It is perhaps the most American of issues, and it should be one that unites us. . . .

My hope is that this book will help focus our collective attention on the positive impacts that immigrants are making on our country.

community | TA LK OF THE TOW N

WARM WELCOME MAYOR JEFF WILLIAMS, SHERIFF BILL WAYBOURN, AND FRIENDS HAD THE HONOR OF WELCOMING CHIEF AL JONES TO ARLINGTON! Hosted by Zang | Adams Real Estate and The Man’s Shop.

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A RLINGTON / M A NSFIELD / GR A ND PR A IRIE

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community | TA LK OF THE TOW N

CRUISING TO VICTORY! IF YOU HAVE NEVER SEEN “THE FOSTER CLASSIC CAR COLLECTION,” IT’S JAW-DROPPING! It was an amazing event as John and Barbara Foster hosted an evening of fun, food, and great times in Honor of candidate Jim Ross, who is running for our next mayor of Arlington.

Hats off to Kathy Venable for organizing such a memorable evening!

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A RLINGTON / M A NSFIELD / GR A ND PR A IRIE

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our picks | PE T CLUB

PET CLUB FEATURED PETS

this month

Nala // Kathryn C.

“Nala was rescued from Belles Buds Rescue in October. She had been abandoned and then hit by a car. She suffered a broken leg. However, she has recovered with the help of the rescue and volunteers. We absolutely love her and are extremely lucky to have her as a part of our family.”

Olive Rose // Sara N.

Felix // Daniela R.

Abby // Richard C.

Gershwin // Danielle S.

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

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

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Jake // Jim S.

Tiny // Cindy G.

WHERE WAGGING

TAILS

ARE ALWAYS WELCOME.

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.

817-795-3135

MANSFIELD 3300 E. Broad Street, Ste 142 817-592-3531

ThreeDog.com

Follow us:

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PROFILE

THE ONLY THING THAT’S CHANGED IS THE LOCATION AFTER 36 YEARS AT THE SAME ADDRESS - DR. STEVEN W. THOMAS HAS MOVED HIS DENTAL OFFICE (LESS THAN 2 MILES AWAY)!

We are so excited about our new office space located on the ground floor of the Park Forest building (no more stairs or elevator to deal with) with plenty of parking, a spacious and comfortable lobby, nicely equipped patient rooms and the same wonderful team of people that cannot wait to greet you! We have implemented the recommended precautionary measures and guidelines directed by the CDC to ensure the safety of our patients while we collectively fight the spread of the Covid-19 virus. Please stop by 2304 W. Interstate 20, Suite 120, Arlington, Texas, 76017 to see us. Our 817-468-1166 phone number remains the same.

DR. STEVEN W. THOMAS AND HIS TEAM MAKE TRIPS TO THE DENTIST ABOUT MORE THAN JUST TEETH! If you are a current patient, you know how much Dr. Steven W. Thomas and his team value relationships and love seeing you in the office. If you are not yet a patient - you are missing out! Dr. Thomas and his team are blessed to have chosen a profession that allows them to personally partner with those that trust them with their oral wellness. Dr. Thomas has been a consistent advocate for his patients since beginning his career. His team offers full-service dental care in a warm and inviting space.

Integrity, empathy and following God’s guidance are the hallmarks of his practice.

“Our desire is that your entire experience

with us exceeds the expectations you have for any medical appointment. Every decision we make is about our patients.

We use the latest dental industry technology so we can offer the best solutions for the friends, family and neighbors that put their trust in us for their oral health.

I’m proud of the love and compassion my team extends to each patient. It is not only about teeth with us. We genuinely care for each person that walks through our doors and count it a great blessing to serve each and every person.” says Dr. Thomas.

GETTING TO KNOW DR. THOMAS. Dr. Steven William Thomas graduated from Texas A&M in College Station and completed dental school in Houston be-

fore beginning his dental career in 1983.

Steven and his wife, Lori, were married in 2008 and live in Mansfield, Texas. They have a blended family of five children ranging in age from twenty to thirty-five and have four beautiful grandchildren.

They are active members of Walnut Ridge Baptist Church and seek opportunities to serve locally and globally through supported ministries. Dr. Thomas says, “Daily I lean on the wisdom of Romans 8:28 which says, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” I feel abundantly blessed that God has allowed me to do work I love, with people I love, in a community I love.”

WE ALWAYS WELCOME NEW PATIENTS AND HOPE TO MEET YOU AT OUR NEW LOCATION VERY SOON! D R. ST EV EN W. THOMAS , DDS 23 04 W. I NT ERSTAT E 2 0 , SUIT E 1 2 0 | A R L IN GTO N , T E X AS 76 0 1 7 (8 17 ) 46 8 - 11 6 6 | ST E V E N W T HO M ASD D S. C O M

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Only thing that’s The

changed is the

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

When Integrity Counts...

HONEST, PATIENT DRIVEN CARE SINCE 1983.

best of ARLINGTON & MANSFIELD READERS’ CHOICE

2015

StevenWThomasDDS.com • (817) 468-1166 2304 I 20 West, Ste. 120, Arlington, 76017

UCCESSFUL EARCHING

TIPS FOR BUYING YOUR NEW HOME

BY PETE ALFANO ouse hunters know the mantra when finding a new place to live — “Location, location, location.” But there are other important considerations to keep in mind when touring homes either in person or virtually.

Start your house search by doing the math first, so you don’t waste your time looking at homes outside your price range. What can you afford? How much will you pay in utilities and property taxes? Factor in expected annual repair costs, especially if the property is older. Consider what landscaping and lawn maintenance will cost. What will your work commute be like, and what will it cost in wear and tear on your car? Then, you can zero in on finding the house that offers the most bang for the buck in your price range. Getting pre-approved for a mortgage will make you more attractive to the homeowner, and real estate agents might request a pre-approval before showing you homes because it strengthens your negotiation ability.

Other considerations on your checklist may include: Does it have the kind of floor plan you want? Is it a two-story or single-level house? What is the square footage? How many bedrooms do you need? How many bathrooms and how much closet and storage space does a house have? Does the yard, and the garage meet your minimum requirements?

What are the values of other homes in the neighborhood?

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Also, decide whether you are looking for a starter house or what is now popularly called a “forever” home? This will determine how much you are willing to invest in updating or remodeling the house might need and whether you will meet the homeowner’s asking price or offer something less.

Oh, and as difficult as it may be, look past the bright purple paint in the bedroom and outdated kitchen wallpaper.

These are cosmetic fixes. But don’t forget to ask about the heating and cooling systems, and the water heater. If they’re old, they’ll need to be replaced in the near future.

Much of this is homework. Virtual online tours are great for getting a feel for houses on the market. You can also research the neighborhood online, focusing on the crime rate and conveniences. For example, determine how far you have to go to buy groceries. Are your preferred pharmacy and a bank branch relatively close? How far away are you from healthcare providers and hospitals?

If you plan to start a family or already have children, the school district is as important as any of the criteria you are using. After doing your research, drive around the neighborhood to create some degree of familiarity.

A house will probably be your biggest investment, so make sure you spend the money wisely.

leading

WOMEN

SPECIAL SECT IO N

“AS A S O C I A L W O R K ER I N TH E FU N ER A L I N D U STRY I ’ M A B LE TO LO O K TO TH E ‘ N EED S ’ O F TH E C LI ENT AS O P P O S ED TO J U ST S ELLI N G TH EM S ER V I C ES , ” S H E S A I D . “ BY P L A C I N G TH EI R N EED S A H E A D O F A S A LE, I C A N P R O V I D E C O M PAS S I O N A N D EM PATHY FO R A LO V ED O N E A N D TH EI R FA M I LY.”

BY M E R E D I T H K N I G H T P H OTO BY L A U R E N M E D E A N

KATHLEEN RAMON VENABLE Burlway Gardens

For Kathy Venable the road to success has not been easy. She began her working life at 18, serving as a hotel concierge but soon married and with her husband owned and ran a limousine service.

Children followed and, if she thought it was tough balancing the demands of motherhood and marriage with the challenges of running a thriving business, it paled by comparison to working two jobs as a single mom, just a few years later.

Kathy welcomes challenges and does not discourage easily. She pulled herself up by her bootstraps and began a 16-year career in the insurance industry eventually relocating to Kansas City. There she met and married a kind, charismatic college professor and marketing executive. “Bill encouraged me to fulfill my ambition of becoming a role model to young Latinas, and to prove it was never too late to get an education,” Kathy said. “In Kansas City, I was involved in economic development as managing director of the Greater Kansas City International Business Development Center, where I provided business services, event management, and translations. I participated in economic development trips to Monterrey and Guadalajara, Mexico, and served

as a translator for the Kansas City delegates to the NAFTA Corridor (NAITCP), Mayor’s Conference.”

Bill encouraged her to pursue a college degree which she did carrying a 3.8 GPA, becoming a member of the National Social Work Honor Society and the National Spanish Honor Society, all while managing her own business, volunteering at the Guadalupe Centers Inc. Senior Center, and serving on the Guadalajara Sister Cities Committee. “One of my biggest accomplishment was presenting a paper on advancing social work education to serve the aging population at the annual Association of Baccalaureate Social Work Program Directors conference,” she said.

After earning her Master of Social Work and continued membership in the National Social Work Honor Society, she accepted a position with Dignity Memorial in the Dallas Market, which includes Arlington, Mansfield, and Grand Prairie. There she worked as a counselor and case manager helping families plan funeral services and meet cemetery property needs. Expanding her role in the Arlington community, Kathy proposed a business plan for a new Latino Business Group

CONTACT 400 BURL RAY STREET | MANSFIELD, TX 76063

682-518-6091 | WWW.BURLWAYGARDENS.COM

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to the Greater Arlington Chamber of Commerce.

As a result she served as the inaugural chair and continues to help build relationships with Latino businesses through education, professional development, and community awareness. “In the Latino community I’ve been able to bring people together to build consensus,” she said.

Kathy volunteers at The Summit Senior Center in Grand Prairie and helps Latino business owners access public and private services. She’s active in the Greater Arlington Chamber of Commerce, with the Latino Business Group, and with the weekly business networking group. All of this activity has led to the advancement of her role in the funeral industry, where she was named as president of Burlway Gardens Association, a cemetery and mausoleum complex in Mansfield. “As a social worker in the funeral industry I’m able to look to the ‘needs’ of the client as opposed to just selling them services,” she said. “By placing their needs ahead of a sale, I can provide compassion and empathy for a loved one and their family.”

SP EC I A L SEC T I O N

“A s a re a l t o r w i t h S t o r y b o o k R e a l t y, I fi n d j oy i n h e l p i n g people buy and sell th e i r h o m e s . I t’s a n h o n o r to wa l k o t h e r s t h ro u g h t h e p ro c e s s o f re a c h i n g t h e i r h o m e d re a m s .

I ’ m g ra t e f u l f o r G o d ’ s p ro v i s i o n i n a l l ow i n g m e to fo c u s o n a c h i e v i n g c a re e r success while having a schedule th a t’s c o n d u c ive w i th fo c u s i n g o n my f a m i l y. T h e y a l w a y s c o m e f i r s t .”

BY MEREDITH KNIGHT PHOTO BY LAUREN MEDEAN

WENDY DANNER

Storybook Realty, LLC Massage Envy South 360, Mansfield, and North Arlington Wendy Danner is a busy gal. Not only does she own three thriving Massage Envy franchises but she’s a devoted mom of four kids who plays soccer, whenever she can get in a game, and somehow still found time to obtain her real estate license to work with families realizing their dream of home ownership.

Wendy’s entrepreneurial journey began with the example of her father. “He was an entrepreneur and worked harder than anyone I’ve ever known yet I saw the fulfi llment he gained from his work,” she said. “He inspired me to reach for high goals and find eventual success in owning my own businesses. My mom was a school teacher who encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone and trust my own ability.” Wendy originally worked toward a law career, obtaining her doctorate in law, and working for a couple of years at a Houston law firm. That when she was introduced to Massage Envy and the opportunity of owning

her own franchise. “I was so impressed with the business model and the idea of helping people in their wellness journey that it was an easy decision to transition into owning my own South 360 franchise location with my mom,” she said.

Five years later, Wendy opened a second Massage Envy location in Mansfield and in 2019 open a third in North Arlington in partnership with her husband. “Since then, I’ve been fortunate to achieve another lifelong dream by obtaining my real estate license,” she said. “As a realtor with Storybook Realty, I fi nd joy in helping people buy and sell their homes. It’s an honor to walk others through the process of reaching their home dreams. I’m grateful for God’s provision in allowing me to focus on achieving career success while having a schedule that’s conducive with focusing on my family. They always come first.”

Whether it’s as a business owner, a realtor, a mom, or a human being, Wendy is always striving to be

better, do more, and learn more. She’s an ardent believer in paying it forward which she achieves through efforts such as gathering Toys for Tots donations at her three Massage Envy locations, rallying clients to contribute to food drives, and helping organize the Run for Warriors 5k charity run/walk for the Wounded Warrior Project.

“I believe anyone is capable of achieving success if they’re willing to put in the effort and most importantly just start taking steps towards your goal,” Wendy said. “Those steps will eventually lead you toward larger goals you might not even anticipate right now. You don’t have to be the smartest person in the room to work hard and reach your goals. If I can do it, anyone can, and it is never too late to start a new career.” That philosophy has certainly been a winning one for this local wife, mother, business owner, realtor, and community leader.

CONTACT STORYBOOKDFW.COM | MASSAGEENVY.COM

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SPECIAL SECT IO N

“ We love helpi ng worki ng men and women be more successfu l in the i r ca reers.

Someti mes people are bothered by ri ng i ng i n the i r ea rs. That is ca lled Ti n n itus. We often ca n evaluate what is goi ng on and offer treatments to help. We l ive i n a ti me when heari ng a id tech nology is extremely soph isticated and we have the abi l ity to treat any heari ng loss successfu l ly. Every pati ent is d ifferent. So we stay abreast of advancements i n the prog ra m m i ng softwa re that al lows us to correctly fit heari ng i nstru ments to each patient we see.”

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

DIANE BLAISING, AUD, ADA, ABA, FAAA Cityview Audiology & Hearing Aids, Inc.

It should have been no surprise to Diane Blaising’s family when she found her calling helping others live a better life through improved hearing. Way back in elementary school, it was a young Diane who wowed her classmates with a science project demonstrating bone conduction hearing. “This was back when we had portable record players,” she said. “I took the record player to school and instead of using the needle on the record, I had a sewing needle stuck into a pencil eraser. We’d hold the wooden end of the pencil between our teeth and place the needle on the turning record and could hear the record through our teeth and bones in our skulls. It’s not coming through your ear canals. It’s bone conduction hearing.”

The workings of the human auditory system haven’t ceased to amaze Diane. Now as a board-certified doctor of audiology, she’s discovered she likes the human side of audiology even more than the medical/science side. “I love the patient contact and making a difference in the lives of my patients the most,” she said.

After more than 25 years serving as an audiologist, the last 12 with her own practice, Dr. Blaising sees herself as a source for total hearing care. “I want my office to serve as a resource center for everything hearing,” she said. “I opened Cityview Audiology & Hearing Aids because I wanted to do more for my patients. For instance, we offer a free aural rehab class for anyone who wants to learn coping strategies for people with hearing loss and their families. Sometimes family members need a little education about how to communicate with the one with hearing difficulties.”

Dr. Blaising says she has the best staff on the planet. “They join me in my mission to help our patients obtain a better quality of life by enhancing their ability to communicate with their families and friends, for deeper, more meaningful relationships,” she said. “We love helping working men and women be more successful in their careers. Sometimes people are bothered by ringing in their ears. That is called Tinnitus.

We often can evaluate what is going on and offer treatments to help. We live in a time when

CONTACT 7801 OAKMONT BOULEVARD, SUITE 109 | FORT WORTH, TEXAS

(817) 263-1800 | CITYVIEWHEARING.COM

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hearing aid technology is extremely sophisticated and we have the ability to treat any hearing loss successfully. Every patient is different. So we stay abreast of advancements in the programming software that allows us to correctly fit hearing instruments to each patient we see.”

Dr. Diane Blaising began her career in audiology in 1992. She received her doctor of audiology degree from the Arizona School of Health Sciences and her master’s degree in audiology from the Callier Center for Communication Disorders at the University of Texas at Dallas. She has years of experience working with hearing-impaired adults and children in otolaryngologists’ offices in Louisville and as a pediatric audiologist at the Louisville Deaf Oral School. Dr. Blaising is board certified in audiology by the American Board of Audiology and has twice been given the Ace Award for continuing education. She and her husband attend First Baptist Church in Dallas and Dr. Blaising is a member of the Christian Medical and Dental Association.

Visit Find out more at CityviewHearing.com.

SP EC I A L SEC T I O N

“ W o m e n to d a y w o rk h a rd to s u p p o r t o u r fa m i l i e s — m e n ta l l y, p h y s i c a l l y, e m o t i o n a l l y, a n d f i n a n c i a l l y, ” D r. G re c o s a i d .

“It can be overwhelm ing.

I t ’ s i m p o r ta n t w e d o n ’ t g e t b o g g e d d o w n i n th e d e ta i l s . Fo rg i v e y o u r o w n s h o r tc o m i n g s a n d s u rro u n d y o u rs e l f w i th fri e n d s a n d fa m i l y w h o u n d e rs ta n d a n d s u p p o r t y o u . Fi n a l l y, d o n ' t fo rg e t to l o v e y o u rs e l f.”

BY M E R E D I T H K N I G H T P H OTO BY L A U R E N M E D E A N

DR. REBECCA GRECO Physician's Ageless Solutions

Not many students receive a standing ovation on their first day of medical school, but Rebecca Greco did. As she related, “Nearly 300 of the brightest individuals from all over the world were gathered in the auditorium on our fi rst day. The dean began sharing something special about each student. When he said, ‘This student was the first in her family to attend high school, the auditorium went silent and the student next to me whispered, ‘Wow, who could that be?’ It was me. I was mortified in this auditorium full of bright students from highly educated families.

I got up and slowly walked to the front of the auditorium where I received a standing ovation.”

It was actually an unexpected encounter even had her in the room that day. “One day, I witnessed a biker getting caught by a moving car, dragged along the street, and left injured on the road,” she said. “My gut reaction was to run to him, cradle his head, and ask him questions to keep him alert. I stayed until the ambulance arrived, and remember watching the ambulance drive away, deeply concerned for a complete stranger.

From that point on, I had a one-track mind about becoming a doctor.”

In high school, Rebecca conducted research at Baylor College of Medicine. During undergraduate at Texas A&M, she submersed herself in “all things premed” including ongoing research in A&M biology labs, enrichment courses at Rice University, and medical preceptorships at both Yale University and Cornell University. “I’m honored to have trained alongside some of the most respected physicians in the world,” she said.

Rebecca was granted entry into Baylor College of Medicine, with a full scholarship where she met her husband during residency. The two moved to Arlington eager to start their professional and family lives.

With a background in internal medicine physician and founder of Physician's Ageless Solutions, Dr. Greco spends her days providing highly individualized plans to help her patients improve their appearance and intimate health with non-surgical solutions. “Running a medicine service

within a tertiary referral center in the heart of Houston taught me the ethics, critical discernment, and patient advocacy I call upon every day in my aesthetic practice,” Dr. Greco said. “As an internal medicine doctor, I place an emphasis on detailed, critical, and comprehensive care.”

Dr. Greco has researched and hand-selected every treatment offered at Physician's Ageless Solutions to be safe, effective, and innovative.

She places an emphasis on patient education and conservative treatments.

“Women today work hard to support our families—mentally, physically, emotionally, and financially,” Dr. Greco said. “It can be overwhelming.

It’s important we don’t get bogged down in the details. Forgive your own shortcomings and surround yourself with friends and family who understand and support you. Finally, don't forget to love yourself.”

Visit PhysiciansAgelessSolutions.com or call (817) 200-6880 to schedule cutting-edge anti-aging and revitalizing treatments for your face and body.

CONTACT 1900 BALLPARK WAY, SUITE 102 | ARLINGTON, TEXAS 76006

(817) 200-6880 | PHYSICIANSAGELESSSOLUTIONS.COM

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SP EC I A L SEC T I O N

SPECIAL SECT IO N

“ M y s ta f f a n d I s tri v e to g o a b o v e a n d b e y o n d to h e l p e a c h p a ti e n t a n d p ro v i d e th e m w i th th e b e s t c a re , b e s t q u a l i t y p ro d u c ts a n d services, and best i n fo rm a t i o n w e c a n .”

BY M E R E D I T H K N I G H T P H OTO BY L A U R E N M E D E A N

KIM LE, D.D.S., M.S. Those who see Dr. Kim Le in her scrubs every day at work might be surprised to know what a girly girl she really is. “Since I wear scrubs throughout the entire week, I come off as a tomboy, but I’m actually very girly deep down,” she laughed. “I don’t get to explore my fashionista side as often as I’d like to, but I do get to express my love of art by creating beautiful smiles for my patients.

My passion is changing my patients lives by changing their smile.”

It’s a formula that’s seen her name in America’s Top Dentists (every year since 2006), Fort Worth Top Dentists in 2007, and a lifetime member of Who’s Who. “My staff and I strive to go above and beyond to help each patient and provide them with the best care, best quality products and services, and best information we can.” she said. Dr. Le and her team stay at the forefront of their field by attending continuing education courses throughout the year, over and above what’s required.

Dr. Le likes to practice collaborative dentistry. “I always want to hear my patients’ ideas, opinions, and feelings,” she said. “This is their dental home and I want them to know and trust me and my staff. Patients tend to underestimate the importance of oral hygiene health, but more and more studies are showing connections between the health of the mouth and the health of the rest of the body. When bacteria is allowed to build up in your mouth, every time you swallow it enters the vital systems of your body where it can contribute to life-threatening conditions. It’s important for us to stay ahead of any periodontal disease, so this never happens.”

When your treatment calls for cosmetic dentistry, Dr. Le offers a wide range of procedures to help you achieve the smile of your dreams, including Invisalign, veneers to close gaps and repair chips, teeth whitening, and laser dentistry. Dr. Le is a specialist in prosthodontics with extensive training in the diagnosis, treatment planning,

and rehabilitation of clinical situations including the placement of dental implants to regain the ability to eat and smile with confidence.

MEET DR. LE Dr. Le grew up in the city of Binh Duong, Vietnam.

She moved to Mansfield in 1990 and made the Lone Star State her permanent home. She went on to graduate from Baylor College of Dentistry where she obtained her Doctor of Dental Surgery in 1998, completed her Prosthodontics residency at Baylor in 2001, and her Master of Science degree in Biology in 2006. She is also a proud member of the American Dental Association (ADA) and the American College of Prosthodontics. Outside the practice of dentistry, Dr. Le enjoys spending her time with her husband and son traveling, sewing, and making original jewelry. She is active with AGAPE Charity and is involved in many activities such as Boy Scouts with her son.

CONTACT 990 US HIGHWAY 287 NORTH, SUITE 112 | MANSFIELD, TEXAS 76063

817-473-6677 | KIMLEDDS.COM

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SP EC I A L SEC T I O N

" M y m o m e n c o u ra g e d m e to w o rk a s a c a n d y s tri p e r a t th e h o s p i ta l a n d I g o t a c h a n c e to s e e h o w g o o d s h e w a s a t h e r p ro fe s s i o n ," Ly n n s a i d . " I w i tn e s s e d her kind heart and how m u c h h e r p e e rs a n d th e d o c to rs s h e w o rk e d w i th re s p e c te d h e r. W h e n I w a s y o u n g , I w a n te d to b e a Fre n c h te a c h e r o r a n i n te ri o r d e s i g n e r, b u t m y l o v e o f m a th and science helped me d e c i d e o n a c a re e r i n n u rs i n g ."

BY M E R E D I T H K N I G H T P H OTO BY L A U R E N M E D E A N

LYNN LITTLETON

Accent on You Plastic Surgery and Med Spa Lynn Littleton isn't comfortable talking about herself. She'd much rather tout the attributes of her coworkers at Accent on You Plastic Surgery and Med Spa and her employer, Dr. Nakamura.

But as an experienced RN and practice manager, Lynn is the hub of this highly productive wheel and it's time she got credit for all she does. Her journey has taken some unexpected turns, but her naturally optimistic outlook meant she turned her adversity into life lessons-for herself and those she influences.

Born and raised in Wisconsin, Lynn looked up to her mom who was a pediatric nurse. "She encouraged me to work as a candy striper at the hospital and I got a chance to see how good she was at her profession," Lynn said. "I witnessed her kind heart and how much her peers and the doctors she worked with respected her. When I was young, I wanted to be a French teacher or an interior designer, but my love of math and science helped me decide on a career in nursing."

Lynn worked as a flight nurse and an emergency room nurse, (where she fi rst encountered Dr. Nakamura), as an assistant director of nursing, as a house supervisor, and helped set up the first free standing day surgery center in the Methodist system. "I enjoy a challenge," she said. "I love looking for new and better ways to increase my skills, so I can be ready for anything." One challenge Lynn wasn't ready for was the loss of her beloved husband. Her faith, the relationships she'd forged with Dr. Nakamura, and the love of her three children were the constants that helped her get through this most difficult time.

"My world changed so much," she said. "But God is faithful." Now happily remarried to the man who helped bring joy back into her life, they love to travel, enjoy time with their families here in Texas, Wisconsin and Tennessee and are especially proud to watch their grandbabies grow up and be awesome.

"Dr. Nakamura invited me to help set up his practice with him, 30 years ago," Lynn said. "I'm still

here. The relationships between Dr. Nakamura and the staff really sets this practice apart. We have a mutual respect for each other, love for what we do, and a focused attention to detail. I believe our patients can feel this, when they're here. Dr. Nakamura and I have grown and learned together and this practice has become my second home. I wouldn't want to work anywhere else."

Lynn's personal and professional mission statement is a simple one... 'be better'. "Be nicer. Be kinder. Be in the moment," she said. "It encourages me not to be complacent, to self-evaluate, and find a better way." Lynn is an active member of Shepherd of Life Church where she loves the heartbeat of the church and all they ways that the church reaches out to its members and the community.

From life-changing cosmetic procedures to innovative aesthetic treatments, Dr. Nakamura and the team at Accent on You tailor care to meet each patient's cosmetic needs and wishes, always keeping the accent where it belongs-on YOU.

CONTACT 3030 SOUTH COOPER STREET | ARLINGTON, TEXAS 76015

(817) 417-7200 | ACCENTONYOU.COM

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SPECIAL SECT IO N

BY M E R E D I T H K N I G H T P H OTO BY L A U R E N M E D E A N

JODY KAUTZ

RE/MAX Associates of Arlington and Mansfield The world of real estate is an ever-changing one.

Few know that as well as Jody Hart Kautz, broker and owner of RE/MAX Associates of Arlington and RE/MAX Associates of Mansfield. Her journey in real estate began in 1981. “Over a fortyyear period, you get to see a lot of changes in the market,” she said. Over the course of her career Jody has learned many aspects of the industry, from foreclosures and short sales to new home construction and more. With knowledge compiled over time, flexibility honed through experience, and an enthusiasm all her own, Jody serves her local area with pride and expertise.

“Real estate is more than a job to me,” she says, “It’s a career path that continues to challenge and excite me.” She bases her business—like her life—on Christian principles and loves to serve her community. She started work at RE/MAX

Associates of Arlington in 1995 and purchased the company four years later. Two years after that, she added the Mansfield location. More recently, she was able to share what she’s learned over the years through her role as the broker, manager, and trainer of 60 agents.

Jody loves interacting with agents and clients alike. Her outgoing nature makes her easy to be around, and she agrees with the adage that laughter is the best medicine. “In junior high I was voted “Most Humorous,” which could easily translate to “Most Disruptive in Class,” she admitted. It’s that energy that puts those around her at ease and makes her fun to work with.

Even with all her experience, Jody acknowledges that she couldn’t do all that she does alone. “My team is made up of four strong, independent, dedicated women who conduct their business

with honesty and integrity,” she said. “Together we go further than any of us could go alone. We all have a common goal, focusing on our clients’ needs and goals, we want the same thing, so it’s easy to get things done. Leanne Nelson, Jennifer Owens, and Natalie Mitchamore, I couldn’t do it without you.”

Jody is an active member of Rush Creek Church and also supports local candidates who understand and support property rights. Her team gives generously to Children’s Miracle Network to help children with all sorts of medical conditions. Jody says in her free time she’s a bit of an artist and loves to paint murals. “Perhaps my parents let me draw on the walls of our home with crayons and it extended into adulthood,” she laughed. Her two children and five grandchildren brighten her life and keep her laughing.

“ M y te a m i s m a d e u p o f fo u r s tro n g , i n d e p e n d e n t, d e d i c a te d w o m e n w h o c o n d u c t th e i r b u s i n e s s w i th h o n e s t y a n d i n t e g r i t y, ” s h e s a i d . “ To g e t h e r w e g o f u r t h e r t h a n a n y o f u s c o u l d g o a l o n e . W e a l l h a v e a c o m m o n g o a l, fo c u s i n g o n o u r c l i e n ts ’ n e e d s a n d g o a l s , we wa n t th e s a m e th i n g, s o i t’s e a sy to g e t t h i n g s d o n e . Le a n n e N e l s o n , J e n n i f e r O w e n s , a n d N a t a l i e M i t c h a m o r e , I c o u l d n ’ t d o i t w i t h o u t y o u .”

CONTACT 4105 SOUTH BOWEN ROAD | ARLINGTON, TEXAS 76016

(817) 276-5170 | JODYKAUTZ.COM

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“ I ’ m b l e s s e d w i th a m a z i n g c h i l d re n a n d g ra n d c h i l d re n , ” Te rri s a i d . “ I w o rk w i th wo n d e rfu l, s u p p o rtive people. And I have my b i g g e s t c h e e rl e a d e r, m y husband by my side. I g e t to s ta r t e a c h d a y o n o u r b a c k p a ti o a t th e fa rm j u s t c o u n t i n g my blessings. My cup ru n n e th o v e r.”

BY M E R E D I T H K N I G H T P H OTO BY L A U R E N M E D E A N

TERRI BAUER

Mansfield Family Dentistry Terri Bauer has a succinct mission statement that motivates everything she does. “I will strive each day to be grateful for all blessings bestowed me, both large and small,” she said. “I’ll always work to be the loving caring compassionate person I was created to be. To have reverence for life and live in harmony. To always work at letting go and letting God. To follow the spiritual path destined for me. To allow all these qualities to flow through me, as I go about my daily life. To give to others and help them fi nd the path they’re destined for. To remember always; Life is a journey–enjoy the journey. To be a good example to my children as they begin their own journey. And to give my true self to my life partner and soulmate—John.”

Those who know and love Terri can attest she doesn’t stray far from those principles. Whether it’s as matriarch of her large and growing family or as she works shoulder to shoulder with her

husband—and now their son—in the family dental practice, Terri is intentional about walking the walk and talking the talk of a Christian woman.

“More than 40 years in business, the good, the bad, and the challenging have led me to believe, ‘things are not happening to you. They are happening for you.’ Never stop learning. Never stop thanking. Never stop serving.”

Terri was blessed with parents who taught her the value of hard work, to understand the value of a dollar, and to give to those in need. “They encouraged me to be a giver to the world, not a taker,” she said. “For more than 40 years, Mansfield Family Dentistry has been about building relationships. We treat people with respect, and we listen. We help our patients feel like family. Caring for others by building great relationships is a blessing. We want to make a difference through listening and hearing what

the needs of our patients are and helping achieve their dental goals.”

Terri is an ardent sponsor of youth cutting horse programs which she supports through scholarships and is passionate about leading others to the Lord. “I strive to be a compassionate caring leader,” she said. “To be impeccable with my word, to set an example through action, and to live my God-given values. I strive to empower those around me through knowledge and education and love, to be a good listener and walk through fi re for those who walk with me. I strive to preach the gospel at all times through the things I do and say and the woman I am.”

“I’m blessed with amazing children and grandchildren,” Terri said. “I work with wonderful, supportive people. And I have my biggest cheerleader, my husband by my side. I get to start each day on our back patio at the farm just counting my blessings. My cup runneth over.”

CONTACT 100 CARLIN ROAD | MANSFIELD, TEXAS 76063

(817) 473-0291 | MANSFIELDDENTISTRY.COM

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SPECIAL SECT IO N

“ I c a n ’ t th a n k D o n n a e n o u g h fo r ta k i n g m e under her wing and p l a c i n g m e i n p o s i ti o n to g a i n i n v a l u a b l e e x p e ri e n c e i n a l l a re a s o f fa m i l y l a w th a t w i l l g re a tl y b e n e f i t o u r c l i e n ts , ” D e s a ra y s a i d .

BY M E R E D I T H K N I G H T P H OTO BY L A N D O N D AY

DONNA J. SMIEDT AND DESARARY R. MUMA The Family Law Firm of Donna J. Smiedt

Donna Smiedt was happy and successful in her solo family law practice. Then she welcomed a dynamic, young attorney to her team. Now, she wonders how she ever got along without Desaray Muma. “Desaray came to work for me, six years ago,” Donna said. “I began tasking her with research and briefs, which she promptly and expertly returned to me, no questions asked. I started entrusting her with uncontested cases and the least challenging hearings, to gain experience.

She performed flawlessly.” As Desaray’s confidence level and knowledge of family law grew, Donna entrusted her with the more complex and highconflict family law cases that are her specialty.

Now, the two work shoulder-to-shoulder in all areas of family law including divorces, child custody battles, adoptions, child support, and Child Protective Services litigation.

“As a younger attorney, I aspired to have the confidence and tenacity I saw in Donna,” Desaray said. “She played a huge role in me becoming

the attorney I am today.” Desaray specializes in cases involving the collaborative law process.

“This involves a series of meetings outside of court focused on settlement from the beginning of the case, allowing families to have a customized process and control over their case,” Desaray said. “Collaborative law gives families the right to make decisions for their children and sets parents up for future success in co-parenting.”

For 30 plus years, Donna has guided her clients deftly through the legal aspects of family law but also the more personal ones, proffering advice on how best to navigate emotional minefields and easing transitions for everyone in the family, including children, who often struggle the most with the adjustments. “Total honesty between my client and myself is the best way to get the desired results,” she said. “The more information I have, the better I can present options to them.”

Her efforts have been recognized by a Fort Worth Top Attorney award, as well as being voted

CONTACT 3216 WEST ARKANSAS LANE | ARLINGTON, TEXAS 76016

(817)-572-9900 | ARLINGTONDIVORCES.COM

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Family Law Attorney of the Year in Arlington multiple times.

From a small, solo practice the firm has grown to include highly seasoned paralegals, legal assistants, an office manager, receptionist, and chief fi nancial officer, to provide the best possible front and back office service to clients as Arlington and Mansfield’s full-service family law firm.

“I can’t thank Donna enough for taking me under her wing and placing me in position to gain invaluable experience in all areas of family law that will greatly benefit our clients,” Desaray said.

“I’ve had the privilege to watch Desaray blossom into the brilliant, beautiful, young lawyer and businesswoman she is today—a proficient attorney, confident in her own skills,” Donna said. “She’s garnered the respect of jurists and opposing counsel alike. I feel confi dent of an excellent future for both of us in this endeavor we love.”

SP EC I A L SEC T I O N

“ W i th th e g re a te s t l u c k , I h a d a n o p to m e tri s t w h o m a d e m e fa l l i n l o v e w i th th e f i e l d , ” she said. “His kindness a n d te c h n i c a l s k i l l s a l l o w e d m e to s e e h o w h e p o s i t i v e l y i m p a c te d p e o p l e w i th th e g i f t o f v i s i o n c o rre c t i o n .

Kn owi n g h i m h e l pe d m e g a i n u n d e rs ta n d i n g o f th i s f i e l d a n d h o w i t w a s th e p e r fe c t b l e n d o f e v e r y th i n g I w a s l o o k i n g fo r i n a c a re e r.”

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

NADIA VIRANI, OD

Kleiman Evangelista Eye Centers of Texas Nadia Virani OD, started her career off as an optometrist and steadily earned her way to serving as Vice President of Operations for Kleiman Evangelista Eye Centers. The foundation of her career began with the jackpot of mentors she found herself surrounded by. First there was her bother, Faris. I am “me” today because of him,” she said. “Since I was born, I’ve watched and mimicked his every move. Faris taught me to dive in head first.” We always said “Commit your efforts to fl ying and you will never have time to be afraid of falling!” This is a message I admire deeply to this day, and deliberately pass on to all those seeking advice.

Nadia also hales from a family that placed an emphasis on the pursuit of medicine and business, a combination that helped Nadia find her perfect career as an optometrist and business woman.

Nadia learned at a young age the benefit of vision correction and that’s where another mentor entered her life. “With the greatest luck, I had an optometrist who made me fall in love with the field,” she said. “His kindness and technical skills

allowed me to see how he positively impacted people with the gift of vision correction. Knowing him helped me gain understanding of this field and how it was the perfect blend of everything I was looking for in a career.”

Lastly, after graduating from the University of Texas at Austin, Nadia was attending the University of Houston College of Optometry when she met Dr. David Kleiman. “I decided to join Kleiman Evangelista Eye Centers at that moment, and three days after walking the stage at graduation, I put on my scrubs and joined the practice I call home today.”

Nadia went from spending her days impacting lives of Kleiman Evangelista patients by caring for them prior to and after ocular surgeries such as Cataract surgery, LASIK, or PRK. “ I also care for patients with glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy and various other ocular conditions. … My passion lies in caring for my patients but soon grew to physician education. I’m involved in continue education lectures and pharmaceutical education lectures for physicians.

Currently in my operations role, my day to day has evolved to impacting patients from a different lens. I have now garnered experience in running a company. Trying to dodge and maneuver a business simultaneously through a pandemic and a historic ice storm is no joke.

Thankfully because of the extraordinary efforts of our entire team, we were able to maintain the highest level of patient care through these unexpected challenges.

Nadia has been involved in medical mission trips since she was a girl. First as a volunteer greeter, and manual laborer, then moving to a technical role, and now as a doctor providing eye care to underserved populations. “As a company, Kleiman Evangelista provides surgical care to impoverished countries including Honduras and Dominican Republic” she said. “We work closely with One World Surgery which provides world-class primary and surgical care with the help of 30k volunteers annually. We feel privileged to establish their ophthalmology services.

I am grateful for the opportunity to give back to our world.

CONTACT 350 EAST I-20 | ARLINGTON, TEXAS 76018

(800)-714-2020 | KEEYECENTERS.COM

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SPECIAL SECT IO N

“ P ro d u c t i o n s a re p e r fo rm e d i n a th e a tre w i th b e a u t i f u l c o s t u m e s a n d s e ts o f fe ri n g s t u d e n ts a p ro fe s s i o n a l e x p e ri e n c e , ” C h ri s t i e s a i d . “ S t u d e n ts l e a rn th e p u rp o s e b e h i n d th e i r p e r fo rm a n c e w h i c h h e l p s th e m g ro w i n a r t i s tr y a n d c re a t i v i t y.”

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

CHRISTIE GARRETT

Dance Academy of Mansfield As a young child, Christie Garrett dreamed of one day becoming a dancer. To her delight, her mother enrolled her in ballet, tap and jazz classes at the age of 8. On weekends her mother would take her to the Theatre in Houston Texas where she witnessed beautiful ballerinas and world-famous artist perform on stage. A hugely impactful moment was when she saw The Alvin Ailey Dance Company perform the masterpiece “Revelations”. The skillful beauty and expressive dancers along with the amazing storytelling would inspire her for years to come.

As a blossoming dancer, Christie studied with The Dyche Yzer School of Ballet, Margo Marshall School of Ballet in Houston, The Abilene Metropolitan Ballet, and the Civic Ballet of Abilene performing in the Nutcracker, Coppelia, The Wizard of Oz, and other productions. After a lot of hard work and dedication she landed a scholarship with Joe Tremaine studying jazz, lyrical, and modern dance at the Moral Landis Dance Center in Los Angeles. She also trained under the direction of Doug Caldwell and Jackie Sleight at the Dupree Dance Center also in LA. Christie began her professional dance career at the age of 19, touring nationally with the children’s musical "The Chipmunks and Magic Camera”,

including performances in Madison Square Gardens. She would go on to perform in numerous stage productions, musicals, industrials, and TV commercials in LA and Dallas. She and her husband founded Dance Academy Mansfield as a one-room dance studio in 1999. “I was the owner, artistic director, dance teacher, receptionist, bookkeeper, and more,” she said.

Dance Academy of Mansfield flourished and now consists of three dance rooms with 10 highly trained and educated teachers and staff members serving over 150 children and families each week. “Our staff is extremely committed and passionate about investing in the lives of children,” Christie said.

“They are also strong in their faith and great role models for our students.” What sets Dance Academy of Mansfield apart, is the emphasis of nurturing all aspect of a student—mind, body, and spirit in a Christ-centered environment. “We have a proven curriculum that focuses on the emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being of each student,” Christie said. “This emphasis has created a safe, nurturing environment where students can grow in character and self-esteem while receiving excellent dancing training. Our dance program uniquely provides a

CONTACT 208 EAST BROAD SUITE #108 | MANSFIELD, TEXAS 76063

(817) 453-4868 | DANCEACADEMYOFMANSFIELD.COM

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variety of dance styles while incorporating prayer, worship, and bible devotions equipping each student to reach their full potential.

This philosophy comes alive in performances as students ages three through 18 relate inspiring stories based on Biblical principles to teach life lessons through dance. “Productions are performed in a theatre with beautiful costumes and sets offering students a professional experience,” Christie said. “Students learn the purpose behind their performance which helps them grow in artistry and creativity.”

Christie and her husband of 34 years have been active in their church teaching Sunday school, participating in worship teams, prayer groups, and emotional inner-healing ministries. The Garretts have three grown sons, 2 granddaughters and several fur babies (dogs) that they adore! “I have treasured the opportunity to work closely with students, staff and the community for the last 21 years and look forward to many more” she said. From a humble beginning to a thriving business, Christie’s journey has been a wonderous adventure that has led to a beautiful destination.

SP EC I A L SEC T I O N

“ We h ave n o m i n i m u m o r m axi m u m p ro j e c t s ize ,” s h e s a i d . “ We kn o w th a t i t c a n b e ove rw h e l m i n g s p e n d i n g h o u rs o n l i n e o r ru n n i n g fro m s to re to s to re tryi n g to d o i t yo u rs e l f, s o w e ’ ve c re a te d a n e a sy sys te m to h e l p yo u c re a te th e i n te ri o rs o f yo u r d re a m s , to g e t WOW i n te ri o rs i n a q u a r te r o f th e ti m e i t w o u l d ta ke to d o i t yo u rs e l f. S o m e p e o p l e e nvi s i o n w o rki n g w i th a d e s i g n e r a s a s c a ry p ro c e s s . O u r g o a l i s to m a ke i t fu n a n d c o nve n i e n t eve ry s te p o f th e w ay, to h e l p yo u c re a te a m azi n g i n te ri o rs yo u ' l l e n j oy fo r ye a rs to c o m e ."

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

LISA LANDY Landry Designs

Lisa Landry didn’t so much choose a career in interior design as it chose her. “I was always the kid with the organized, pretty room,” she said.

“I loved helping my friends move their furniture around so that everything was more functional and visually balanced. I also enjoyed teaching and actually turned my small closet into my ‘teacher desk’ area. I assigned my younger brother and sister the role of students. I liked creating quizzes for them and grading their papers.” The daughter of a super crafty mom, Lisa learned at a young age what a little Mod Podge or embroidery can create. Meanwhile, her dad modeled entrepreneurial prowess and the organizational skills he’d honed in the military. At school, her teachers inspired her by doing what she considered “the best job in the world”.

Over 20 years ago, Lisa took the examples of all these mentors, combined with her innate love of creating functional, beautiful environments, and opened her own interior design firm. There

she could not only utilize her creative talents but teach others to do so. The firm quickly grew, as she added employees and amassed a loyal client base. The Landy Designs team is now working from an 18,000 square-foot studio designing residential and commercial properties across the country.

After many years of designing full-time, Lisa now concentrates on training and managing her large team. “We have been honored with 35 international design awards judged by magazine editors from across the country and our work has been published nationally 28 times,” she said. “We’ve been voted ‘Best Interior Designer’

by Living Magazine readers eight years in a row.

I couldn’t be prouder of our team.”

Lisa believes that everyone deserves great design, and Landry Designs works with many budget ranges. They help young professionals, business owners, families buying their first homes (and beyond), luxury homeowners, and even retirees

downsizing to their forever homes. “We have no minimum or maximum project size,” she said. “We know that it can be overwhelming spending hours online or running from store to store trying to do it yourself, so we’ve created an easy system to help you create the interiors of your dreams, to get WOW interiors in a quarter of the time it would take to do it yourself. Some people envision working with a designer as a scary process.

Our goal is to make it fun and convenient every step of the way, to help you create amazing interiors you'll enjoy for years to come."

In her free time, Lisa supports animal sanctuaries such as Oliver and Friends Farm Animal Sanctuary which rescues, rehabilitates, and offers lifelong homes to animals. Also a self-confessed thrill-seeker, she enjoys skydiving, roller coasters, and traveling solo around the world.

She loves family time with her son, daughter-inlaw, and seven-year-old granddaughter who is an adventurer-in-training.

CONTACT (817) 835-3100 | LANDRYDESIGNS.COM

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“ I l o v e b e i n g a n u rs e p ra c t i t i o n e r b e c a u s e th e re ’ s s o m u c h fo c u s o n p a ti e n t e d u c a ti o n a n d i n v o l v i n g th e p a t i e n t i n th e i r o w n p l a n o f c a re .

S o m e t i m e s m e d i c a l c a re c a n b e p a te rn a l i s t i c , b u t I d o n ’ t th i n k i t h a s to b e th a t w a y. U t i l i z i n g m y knowledge and involving m y p a t i e n ts i n th e i r o w n c a re h e l p s m e p ro v i d e th e m w i th b e t te r s u p p o r t a n d a l l o w s m e to g u i d e th e m i n th e i r c o u rs e to w e l l n e s s . O p t i m a l h e a l th fo r m e i s v e r y m u c h a te a m e f fo r t, I c a n p ro v i d e g u i d a n c e a n d th e n th e p a t i e n t c a n ta k e th e re i n s a n d m a k e th e i r p a th .”

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

DR. MANDY COTTEN FNP-C

Institute for Hormonal Balance and BioTE Medical Even at a young age, Mandy Cotten knew she wanted to help people. “Growing up the daughter of a doctor and a pharmacist, I was always interested in medicine and helping people,” she said. “As a small child, I loved watching patients have their blood drawn in my dad’s offi ce. (Of course, having my own drawn was a whole different story.) My dad is a pioneer in his field and has taught me to always continue learning new things daily. I learned the importance of work ethic at a young age from my stepdad. He told me, ‘Working builds character,” and gave me my fi rst job at 15…I’ve been working ever since.”

Mandy also grew up with a mom she says is “Superwoman in disguise”. Seeing the focus she placed on her family, Mandy knew she wanted to do the same. “She goes above and beyond for her family,” she said. “I hope I can be half the mother she’s been to me. I always knew I wanted a family but worried I wouldn’t

have time to be a mom, wife, and advance my education. Life has a funny way of coming together as I ended up simultaneously planning my wedding, picking out kid’s names, and completing my doctoral degree in Nursing.”

Mandy decided she could live out her dream of helping others as a nurse practitioner. As she worked to make that dream come true, she also married the love of her life and had her fi rst child. “Turns out, I had time to accomplish both my dreams, with the help of my family and my husband Casey,” she said. “I love being a nurse practitioner because there’s so much focus on patient education and involving the patient in their own plan of care. Sometimes medical care can be paternalistic, but I don’t think it has to be that way. Utilizing my knowledge and involving my patients in their own care helps me provide them with better support and allows me to guide them in their course to wellness. Optimal health for me is ver y

much a team effort, I can provide guidance and then the patient can take the reins and make their path.”

Mandy specializes in hormone optimization and sexual wellness for men and women, thyroid management, IV nutrient therapy, and nutraceutical management, giving men and women their quality of life back through holistic health care while empowering them to make savvy wellness decisions for themselves and those they love.

“I arrived to where I am in a roundabout way, but I wouldn’t change anything about it,” Mandy said. “My advice is to try to be self-aware. Do things to boost your self-esteem rather than allowing others to build you up or break you down. If you are passionate about what you do, it will show. Have fun, enjoy life, otherwise, what are you working for?” Mandy is proud to pay it forward by providing treatment free of charge to a group of veterans struggling with PTSD.

CONTACT 4224 PARK SPRINGS BLVD. ARLINGTON TEXAS 76016

1875 WEST WALNUT HILL LANE, SUITE 100 IRVING, TEXAS 75038

(817) 467-7474 | DONOVITZ.COM

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SP EC I A L SEC T I O N

“ O u r v i s i o n fo r Tw e n t y Tw o R e a l t y i s th a t o f i n te g ri t y, v a l u e , s e r v i c e , p h i l a n th ro p y — a n d f u n , ” La n a e s a i d . “ R e a l e s ta te s h o u l d n e v e r b e o n e - s i ze - f i ts - a l l . W e c u s to m i ze th e p ro c e s s fo r e a c h u n i q u e c l i e n t a n d h a v e a d re a m o f e x p a n d i n g o u r b ra n d to i n c l u d e 2 2 o f f i c e s a c ro s s th e M e tro p l e x to s e r v e e v e n m o re fa m i l i e s .”

BY M E R E D I T H K N I G H T P H OTO BY L A U R E N M E D E A N

ROBYN AND LANAE Twenty-Two Realty

Robyn Eastman is an early bird. Lanae Humbles is a night owl. Together they’ve realized success by playing on each woman’s strengths and undertaking the aspects of the business that most brings them joy. Lanae, for instance, has a keen understanding of Texas Real Estate contracts and forms and is a Master Certified Negotiation Expert, liaising with lenders, title companies, and other agents, facilitating smooth transactions for clients. Robyn enjoys being the face of Twenty-Two Realty, spending her days showing homes to potential buyers and researching the more difficult questions they have about properties and surrounding communities. Robyn and Lanae are also savvy marketers with over 20 years of graphic design experience and an innovative eye for marketing homes. It’s been a winning combination for Twenty-Two Realty.

“Doing what we each love keeps our attitudes positive and prevents burn out,” Robyn said. “We’re also careful to maintain a good work/life balance.

We love our jobs, but real estate is at its heart a customer service business and customer service can be demanding. We want to keep our spirits high and our clients feeling loved and appreciated.

For us, task division and work/life balance are the keys to happiness and success.”

Lanae was a natural-born entrepreneur, selling her drawings to church members at age six (for money her mom made her quickly return, when she caught wind of it) and setting up pay-to-play carnivals for her little friends. Robyn first delved into business ownership with The Little Gym of Arlington/Mansfield, a successful children’s gymnastics and motor skill development facility. When the two ventured into real estate, they quickly found success. During their first ten years as REALTORS®, they have earned many top honors including Rookie of the Year and Fleetwood Newberry Meritorious Service Award at Arlington Board of REALTORS®, and Centurion Team, President’s Team, Quality Service Pinnacle Team, Dene Fite Quality Service Award and #1 Team at CENTURY 21 Judge Fite Company.

Now, on their own as brokers at Twenty-Two Realty, they’re applying 40+ years of combined business and customer service experience with their extensive real estate knowledge and in-depth understanding of the local market to help families buy and sell the largest possession most of them will ever

own, their home. Both women give unselfishly of themselves, not only to their clients and families (combined, they have nine children!) but at local nursing homes, where for ten years they’ve played bingo with residents. Both women have served in leadership roles at Arlington Board of REALTORS® where Robyn is currently the Secretary/Treasurer and will be Chairman of the Board in 2023. Lanae is busy helping the Church on Rush Creek launch a new campus in her hometown of Midlothian and serves as the Capital Improvements Director of her HOA. They have been involved in numerous other local community leadership and service organizations including Leadership Arlington, Leadership Mansfield, Mansfield Citizens Police Academy, Midlothian Citizens Police Academy, Mansfield Citizens Fire Academy and Mansfield Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassador to name a few.

“Our vision for Twenty-Two Realty is that of integrity, value, service, philanthropy—and fun,” Lanae said. “Real estate should never be one-size-fitsall. We customize the process for each unique client and have a dream of expanding our brand to include 22 offices across the Metroplex to serve even more families.”

CONTACT 550 NORTH WALNUT CREEK DRIVE, SUITE 100 | MANSFIELD, TEXAS

ROBYN (817) 437-2770 | LANAE (817) 703-2012 | ROBYNANDLANAE.COM

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" O u r C o m p l e te H e a ri n g H e a l th C a re p ro g ra m i n c l u d e s a l l o f th e s e r v i c e s p e o p l e n e e d to b e s u c c e s s f u l w i th th e i r i n v e s tm e n t i n b e t te r h e a ri n g , i n c l u d i n g fre e b a t te ri e s fo r th e l i fe t i m e o f th e devices!"

DR. MELISSA DANCHAK

Kos/Danchak Audiology & Hearing Aids Dr. Melissa Danchak is humbled by the opportunity she and her staff are given to help people hear better. "We are given the opportunity to help people reconnect to their life in so many ways.

The positive quality of life differences that we have been making are humbling - it reminds us why we do what we do!"

Hearing and understanding clearly what is being said is more challenging than ever before. "So many of the environments that we are in on a daily basis have competing background noises.

Even for someone with 'normal' hearing, it is challenging to understand what is being said when there is background noise present. For someone with hearing loss, understanding what is being said is one of the biggest challenges they face."

Dr. Danchak and her st af f recog nize that hearing loss is a ver y unique and personal experience. "Hearing loss makes it challenging to really engage with family members and friends in social gatherings. Each person has

their own stor y to tell about how hearing loss has been impacting their life. Personally, I've been helping people hear better for over 24 years. It's exciting, and emotional. When someone wears hearing aids for the first time, they almost immediately realize that they can reconnect to the impor tant people in their life. They realize just how much they've been missing."

Although hearing loss is a natural part of the aging process, the signs are not always obvious.

"Because hearing loss isn't as noticeable as blurry vision or a toothache, it's understandable that people deny that they may need to get their ears and hearing checked. However, hearing well is an essential part of everyday life - using the phone, communicating with friends, family, and coworkers, and understanding important medical discussions. Regardless of age, we all depend on our ears and our hearing."

Your better hearing experience begins with a discussion about your unique and personal hearing challenges. A hearing evaluation is then conducted and, if appropriate, a live listening demonstration with hearing devices will be provided. Dr. Danchak and her staff understand that investing in better hearing is not just about technology. "Our Complete Hearing Health Care program includes all of the services people need to be successful with their investment in better hearing, including free batteries for the lifetime of the devices!" The long-term relationships Kos/ Danchak Audiology forms with their patient's, and their family members, is just one reason they have earned over 100 five-star reviews on Google, Facebook, and healthyhearing.com. It's also why so many of their satisfied patients refer their friends and family to them each month!

"Our product is better hearing health care!

Your appointment at Kos/Danchak Audiology & Hearing Aids will be an informative experience and a great start on your path to better hearing!"

CONTACT 101 W. RANDOL MILL ROAD | ARLINGTON, TEXAS 76011

(817) 277-7039 | NORTHTXHEARING.COM | FACEBOOK.COM/KOS.DANCHAK

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SP EC I A L SEC T I O N

“ To d a y ’ s te e n s tru g g l e s w i th p e rs o n a l w o r th , th e i r i d e n t i t y d a i l y a s s a u l te d b y s o c i a l m e d i a , m e n ta l h e a l th i s s u e s , p re s s u re s o f a n i n c re a s i n g l y s e x u a l i z e d c u l t u re , th e c h a l l e n g e of n e g o ti a ti n g re l a t i o n s h i p s a m o n g th e i r p e e rs — b o th fri e n d s h i p s a n d ro m a n t i c p a r tn e rs — a n d c o n c e rn a b o u t th e i r f u t u re b e g i n n i n g w i th a c c e p ta n c e b y th e c o l l e g e o f th e i r c h o i c e . I ’ m a l w a y s s tri v i n g to b e a w a re o f th e n e e d s o f th i s g e n e ra t i o n s o w e c a n c re a te a n e x p e ri e n c e th a t ’ s re l e v a n t a n d e n c o u ra g e s th e m to g ro w p e rs o n a l l y a n d s p i ri t u a l l y.”

BY M E R E D I T H K N I G H T P H OTO BY L A U R E N M E D E A N

TIFFANY DANIELS THERE(4) Teen Gathering

In 2012, Tiffany Daniels attended a life-changing event with her teenage daughter. Little did she realize what an impact that experience would have on her life. “It was a national teen conference that profoundly impacted us both,” she said. “I left excited about bringing my daughter and her friends back every year.” Tiffany was disappointed, however, to discover the event was discontinued. She spent years searching the country for a similar spiritual-life experience. There simply wasn’t one.

God had planted a seed in Tiffany’s heart that weekend and, as the years passed, He grew that seed until fi nally, in 2015, she came to realize God’s desire was to use her to launch such a conference. That was the genesis of THERE{4} Teen Gathering. “We obtained our 501(c)3 status then organized and held our first conference in February 2016,” Tiffany said. “The fact that 850 girls showed up that first year was amazing and motivated my team to keep going! “ She’ll never know this side of heaven how many lives that and subsequent gatherings have touched.

THERE{4} Teen Gathering is a weekend of worship, inspiring speakers, and creative interactions designed especially for high school girls, inspiring them to boldly live out their identity in Jesus Christ. The 7th conference in February 2021 was livestreamed because of COVID but was just as impactful, reaching girls in 30 countries and all 50 states.

After graduation from UT with a bachelor’s in architecture, Tiffany began her work life in the field of Architecture. She made the transition to hospital development before entering the non-profit world with THERE{4} Teen Gathering.

“To my knowledge, there are no other large events like THERE{4} specifically designed for high school girls,” she said. “Our two-day conference provides a unique experience where teen girls can come together and feel like they are seen, known, and loved deeply by God.” Tiffany is quick to credit much of the success of the ministry to the board of directors and volunteer team made up of dozens of creative, practical, energetic people. “Our mission is to inspire the

next generation of girls to boldly live out their identity in Jesus Christ,” she said. “Today’s teen struggles with personal worth, their identity daily assaulted by social media, mental health issues, pressures of an increasingly sexualized culture, the challenge of negotiating relationships among their peers—both friendships and romantic partners—and concern about their future beginning with acceptance by the college of their choice.

I’m always striving to be aware of the needs of this generation so we can create an experience that’s relevant and encourages them to grow personally and spiritually.”

In addition to serving as executive director of THERE{4} Teen Gathering, Tiffany serves at her home church, Central Bible Church, and has volunteered with the NET jail ministry in Fort Worth, World Relief, and Mission Arlington.

"Being diagnosed with thyroid cancer in 2002 and undergoing many months of treatment, not only increased Tiffany's empathy for others, it also gave her a renewed perspective on her life and purpose."

CONTACT 4101 WEST GREEN OAKS, #305-370 | ARLINGTON, TEXAS 76016

THERE4GATHERING.COM

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SPECIAL SECT IO N

“ Fi rs t, n o th i n g i n l i fe i s f re e , s o w o r k h a rd and go get it. Second, n eve r a s k a nyo n e to d o s o m e th i n g yo u ’d n eve r d o y o u r s e l f. A l w a y s b e th e exa m p l e . N eve r s to p l e a rn i n g , a n d i f s o m e o n e te l l s yo u yo u c a n ’t, u s e th a t a s m o tiva ti o n to p ro v e t h e m w ro n g . I f e e l re a l l y b l e s s e d t o d o t h e wo rk I d o, b e i n g p a rt of h e l p i n g o u r p a ti e n ts l ive th e b e s t, fu l l e s t l i fe th ey c a n .”

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

LORI SRUBAR

Chief Operating Officer, AOA Orthopedic Specialists What does Lori Srubar love about working in healthcare? It would be easier to list what she doesn’t love. Lori loves keeping up with the latest advancements in an industry that’s everchanging and expanding. She loves the contact with patients of all ages. “My mother has always been my role model,” Lori said. “She’s the kindest, most patient, forgiving, and driven person I’ve ever known.

She’d give her last dollar to anyone in need. And she taught me you can achieve anything in life if you work hard. All those lessons inspire me in my job, every day.”

and can’t wait to see what my next challenge will be,” she said.

Lori began working at AOA Orthopedic Specialists as a freshman in college, working part-time in the file room and, except for a year working at CareNow to broaden her knowledge in the field, she’s been part of the AOA team for 19 and a half years. “I’ve had the pleasure of learning all aspects of the operation, from a scheduler, to receptionist, charge entry, credentialing, insurance contracting, and risk management

Lori has been happily married for 11 years and has two four-legged children, a fawn boxer named Stella and a white boxer named Kona. A local girl, she happily relocated to Lewisville, when she met her husband. A firm believer in paying it forward, Lori’s involved with the non-profit organizations Mission Arlington and Project Access where she coordinates patients’ orthopedic care. She enjoys a good CrossFit workout which she’s fit in

Lori enjoys knowing the ins and outs and every piece of the AOA Orthopedic Specialists operation.

“My drive, attention to detail, and constant need to grow my knowledge about all areas of my profession keeps my work fresh and interesting,” she said. “Knowing all aspects of the business provides me a better understanding of how everything works together and an understanding of the employee experience as well as the patient experience.”

CONTACT 800 ORTHOPEDIC WAY | ARLINGTON, TEXAS 76015

(817) 375-5200 | ARLINGTONORTHO.COM

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six days a week for the past three and half years.

“I find my workouts help with the stress of the day to day,” she said.

When considering what philosophies help her give her best to AOA patients and staff, she said, “First, nothing in life is free, so work hard and go get it. Second, never ask anyone to do something you’d never do yourself. Always be the example.

Never stop learning, and if someone tells you you can’t, use that as motivation to prove them wrong. I feel really blessed to do the work I do, being part of helping our patients live the best, fullest life they can.”

AOA Orthopedic Specialists has been the premiere orthopedic, spine, and sports medicine group in North Texas since 1996. With more providers and locations than any other specialty orthopedics clinic in DFW, AOA ensures you and your family will get the best possible care in the most convenient locations.

SP EC I A L SEC T I O N

AREAS OF PRACTICE INCLUDE: • D IVO R C E • M O D IF ICAT IO N S • C USTO D Y • C HIL D SUPPO RT • SPO USA L SUPPO RT • V ISITAT IO N • E N FO R C E M E N T O F C USTO D Y / SUPPO RT • PAT E R N IT Y • ST E P- PA R E N T A D O PT IO N

BY M E R E D I T H K N I G H T P H OTO BY L A U R E N M A R I E M E D E A N

STEPHANIE A. FOSTER, PC

T he Fa m ily Law O ffi c e s of S t e p h a n i e A. Fo s t e r Stephanie Foster believes in divorce with dignity.

One of the first attorneys trained in collaborative law in 2008, she sees collaboration as a way to avoid the uncertain outcome of court and achieve a fair settlement that best meets the specific needs of both parties and their children.

“Collaborative law is a powerful way to generate creative solutions in family law disputes while minimalizing fi nancial and emotional damage to the couple and their children, all the while promoting post-divorce psychological and financial health of the restructured family,” she said.

The benefits of collaboration are many and include: • Parties share the same information and work with transparency.

• Because agreements must be mutual and settlements aren’t forced, parties are more likely to be pleased with a compromise reached jointly.

• If collaboration fails, litigation remains an option.

Stephanie began her legal firm, The Law Offices of Stephanie A. Foster, in 1992 and has spent almost three decades devoting her time and effort solely to family law. Through it all, her practice philosophy has been simple. “Our commitment is to help our clients resolve their family law dispute while keeping their personal and economic dignity intact,” she said.

• Parties hold “four-way” meetings that include dialogue between clients and their attorneys.

Her formidable legal team includes Associate Attorney Larry Mike, II, Legal Assistant Ashleigh Bell, Paralegal Sandra Patino, and Administrative Assistant Ann Watson. Together they concentrate on family legal issues.

• Parties discuss and agree upon the legal expenses incurring, promoting an efficient use of time and money.

Stephanie’s dream of owning her own law firm began when she was just a girl. “My father is an attorney,” she said. “When I was a child, I’d beg

him to take me to work with him at his law firm each summer.” It was during those summers that Stephanie honed her philosophy of treating each client with dignity and affording them the time they deserve, no matter what type of case they present. The elder Foster instilled a love of the law, a passion for learning, and a strong work ethic in his three daughters. All three became lawyers.

A graduate of Arlington’s Martin High School, Southern Methodist University in Dallas, and St. Mary’s Law School in San Antonio, Stephanie traveled and explored different areas of law.

Throughout her career, she’s handled approximately 3400 family law cases. Stephanie is a member of Collaborative Divorce of Texas, the International Association of Collaborative Professionals, the Collaborative Lawyers of Arlington and Mansfield, and a lifetime member of the Texas Law Foundation. She’s active in the Arlington, Tarrant County, and Texas Bar Associations and is a Texas Bar Foundation Fellow.

CONTACT 4214 LITTLE ROAD, SUITE 1000 | ARLINGTON, TEXAS 76016

(817) 277-2805 | STEPHANIEFOSTERLAWYER.COM

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SPECIAL SECT IO N

“ Th a t ’ s w h y c o m m u n i c a ti o n b e t w e e n p ro v i d e rs i s s o i m p o r ta n t . W e o f fe r h i g h l y s p e c i a l i ze d tre a tm e n ts s u c h a s H y p e rb a ri c M e d i c i n e a l o n g w i th th e l a te s t, s ta te - o f- th e - a r t w o u n d c a re p ro d u c ts , to s a v e l i fe a n d l i m b .”

BY M E R E D I T H K N I G H T P H OTO BY L A U R E N M E D E A N

TARA PLEISS, BSHA

Methodist Mansfield Wound Care and Hyperbaric Center Tara Pleiss learned at a young age about hard work. Growing up on a family farm in Southern California, she knew what it was like to grow her own food and to gather and chop firewood to stay warm. “I was the oldest of three girls,” she said. “We learned early what it’s like to work to survive.” When she left home, she worked as a waitress before transitioning into medicine.

“Everywhere I worked I was promoted to head waitress,” she said. “I credit the lessons learned on the farm for my ability to think outside the box and have a vision for the way things could run better.”

Tara went on to nursing school but soon moved into administration where she really found her niche. “I’m too emotional to be on the frontlines as a nurse,” she said. “I asked myself how I could stay in healthcare and still be beneficial. Administration was the answer.” Now, as the Program Director at Methodist Mansfield

Wound Care and Hyperbaric Center, she coordinates a unique multidisciplinary team of healthcare providers, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, all dedicated to healing chronic wounds. “The causes of wounds are complex, and our group coordinates with primary providers and specialists in all areas necessary to handle varied circumstances and challenges of disease processes in the wound care patient,” Tara said.

“One of the most important things I do is go out into the community to help coordinate care between the patients primary doctor and any specialists they’re seeing to keep everyone on the same page. Whatever it takes for healing to occur, we’re equipped and staffed to make it happen.”

Tara began in her position in 2019 after working in a similar job in Nebraska. “Texas was instantly home,” she said. “I love the manners here. That’s how I was raised. I love how friendly and welcoming everyone is. This is an extraordinary job in

CONTACT 2800 EAST BROAD STREET, SUITE 308 | MANSFIELD, TEXAS 76063

(682) 242-HEAL (682-622-4325)

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an outstanding facility. Our patients are receiving the best wound care in the country. Most days I can’t believe I get to wake up and come to work here.”

“Most of our patients have one or many underlying co-morbidities causing their wound problems,” Tara continued. “That’s why communication between providers is so important. We offer highly specialized treatments such as Hyperbaric Medicine along with the latest, state-of-theart wound care products, to save life and limb.”

In her free time, Tara is a member of Toastmasters and an active member of Divine Peace Lutheran Church. She enjoys weightlifting, biking, hiking, swimming, and spending time with her four girls doing anything in nature. Her personal mission statement is, “If you work hard to learn and are open to changing in any way you need to make yourself and society better, you will find success.”

YEARS! YEARS

WE ARE THANKFUL BEYOND MEASURE TO CELEBRATE 18 YEARS OF PUBLISHING LIVING MAGAZINE HERE IN ARLINGTON, MANSFIELD AND GRAND PRAIRIE. THE SUPPORT FROM THE READERS AND BUSINESS OWNERS ALIKE ARE TRULY A BLESSING. THANK YOU TO OUR LORD JESUS FOR ALLOWING US TO DO WHAT WE LOVE!

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S u n n y Days A h e a d No Vacation? No Problem. Woven hats bring adventure whether you’re lying outside by the pool or hopping on a flight to somewhere tropical. Even the iconic, Audrey Hepburn, had a wide variety of chapeaus for summertime.

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An outfit is never truly complete without a complimenting bag. But the struggle is real when searching for the perfect fit. It must hold an assortment of items ranging in different sizes but needs to be small enough to throw over the shoulder. It has to be stylish, preferably waterproof, and easily cleaned.

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Beach Bound We all love a trendy swimsuit. However, these styles can require quite a bit of brainpower to figure out how to put them on. You can’t go wrong with a classic suit that looks like it came straight out of Long Beach in the ‘90s. This summer, dive in and select an effortless style that you feel confident wearing. Trends are overrated when it comes to swimwear anyway.

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wellness

RELATIONSHIP

RX

H OW F R I E N D S H I P S I M P R OV E YO U R H E A LT H , L O N G E V I T Y, AND POSITIVIT Y

BY S Y D N I E L L I S

rite your best friend a thank-you note, make her a friendship bracelet, or buy her a much-deser ved glass of wine because her existence actually has tons of health benefits for you. Sure, you already know she makes you laugh. And, yes, she is your go-to person when you are feeling down. But did you know that strong, supportive, positive friendships have numerous health benefits? For women and men, friendships are super important to our overall wellbeing, so much so that you will want to schedule a hangout or happy hour ASAP to get another hit of those good vibes. Discover a few ways friendships improve your health.

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wellness | REL ATIONSHIP R X

FRIENDSHIPS INCREASE SEROTONIN AND OXYTOCIN It turns out there is a scientific reason you feel so light after an hour-long catch-up with a girlfriend or having a game night with friends. Research shows that hanging out with friends can increase the production of the “feel-good” hormones serotonin and oxytocin, according to Healthline.

WOMEN HAVE A CALMING EFFECT ON OTHER WOMEN Your female friends can have a calming effect on you biologically. Studies indicate that women release oxytocin and adrenaline during times of stress, which is a biological response that makes us want to protect our kids and connect with other women. When we turn to girlfriends for support, it can trigger even more oxytocin to help us feel calmer and safer and want to develop even deeper friendships. This effect is not the same in men who typically deal with stress better alone.

SOCIAL CONNECTIONS LEAD TO LONGER LIVES Since good friends will encourage you to be healthier — like giving up smoking or starting to exercise, the Mayo Clinic says adults with close friends have a reduced risk of depression, high blood pressure, an unhealthy BMI and are more likely to live longer. So, if you are debating

whether to re-watch The Office (again) or meet up with a friend, just know that only the latter can help you live longer.

FRIENDS JUST MAKE YOU HAPPIER Happiness knows no bounds when it comes to friendships.

Having close friends increases your sense of belonging and purpose, boosts your happiness, improves your selfconfidence and self-worth, helps you cope with traumas, and helps prevent loneliness, according to the Mayo Clinic.

How can you beat that?

MORE LAUGHTER EQUALS MORE HAPPINESS Good friends know how to make you laugh. Laughter increases your oxygen levels, stimulating your heart, lungs, and muscles, as well as the endorphins in your brain. It also helps relieve stress by lowering your heart rate and blood pressure, and it can soothe tensions in your muscles. In the long-term, people who laugh more and are generally positive tend to have better immune systems, less pain, more personal satisfaction, and overall better moods.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, people have learned to appreciate social connections more than ever. Make your friends a priority — virtually or in-person — and your health and happiness will be better for it.

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wellness

RISK FACTORS YOU CAN’T CONTROL

BONE

up

OSTEOPOROSIS T H E B A S I C S YO U N E E D T O K N OW B Y D AV I D B U I C E

AGE // The older you are, the greater the likelihood you’ll develop osteoporosis. About 75% of fractures due to osteoporosis happen to people 65 or older.

GENDER // According to the International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF), around the world, one in three women and one in five men over age 50 will suffer a broken bone due to osteoporosis.

FAMILY HISTORY // You’re at greater risk if your parents had osteoporosis.

MENOPAUSE/HYSTERECTOMY // Estrogen has a protective effect on bone, and women who have gone through menopause or have had a hysterectomy are at greater risk.

MEDICATIONS // Some medications needed to control serious health issues are linked to osteoporosis and bone fracture risk. Some of these include long-term glucocorticoid medications for asthma and arthritis, some medications for diabetes, as well as certain antidepressants, chemotherapy agents, anti convulsants, anticoagulants, and aromatase inhibitors, among others. Be sure to consult w ith your physician about the r isk for osteoporosis if you’re taking any of these, and never discontinue usage on your own.

AVOIDING OSTEOPOROSIS, RISK FACTORS YOU CAN CONTROL

steoporosis literally means “porous bone” and is a condition where bones become thin, brittle, and weak with age. This condition can lead to broken bones, causing pain and disability, making normal, everyday activities extremely difficult.

HOW OSTEOPOROSIS DEVELOPS Our bones are living tissue that gives our bodies structure and protects our internal organs. From childhood onward, they grow and develop until we reach our early 20s. This period, called “peak bone mass,” is the time in our lives when our bones are their strongest and densest, and least likely to fracture. Bone is constantly renewed from this point onward, but for people who have osteoporosis, more bone is lost than replaced, making bones brittle and more likely to break.

RISK FACTORS FOR OSTEOPOROSIS A risk factor is anything that increases the likelihood of getting a disease. While having one or more risk factors does not necessarily mean you’ll develop osteoporosis, the greater the number of risk factors you have, the higher your chances of developing the disease.

Osteoporosis risk factors fall into two categories, those you can’t control and those you can.

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ALCOHOL // Having more than two alcoholic drinks a day increases your osteoporosis risk.

SMOKING // According to the IOF, smoking almost doubles the risk of a hip fracture if you fall, compared to non-smokers. Sadly, after a hip fracture, about one-quarter of people die or never walk again.

LOW BODY MASS INDEX // A BMI below 19 is a significant risk factor.

POOR NUTRITION // To ward off osteoporosis, consume a diet rich in calcium, protein, fruits, and vegetables, all of which are good for bone health.

VITAMIN D DEFICIENCY // Low levels of Vitamin D are common among seniors who rarely go outdoors. A sk your physician about taking a supplement.

INACTIVITY // Exercise builds both bone and muscle mass. Aim for 75 minutes of rigorous exercise or 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.

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here must be something in the water in Texas that fosters so much innovation and creativity. Case in point, Dr. Iris Rubin and her luxury “skin-caring” hair line, products that aren’t just good for your hair but good for your skin—and our planet. A Harvardtrained dermatologist, Dr. Rubin saw patients in her practice who presented with acne or clogged pores as a result of hair products washing down their face, chest, and back as they showered. Others had issues from conditioner and styling products which work by leaving a residue on the hair which can then transfer to skin, pillowcases, towels, etc. These products aren’t formulated with skin health in mind yet they’re coming into contact with skin and causing skin problems for many dermatology patient.

In fact, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) sites hair products as a common cause for acne and breakouts. Dr. Rubin set about looking for a solution, eventually formulating her own hair care products that are good for the hair—and the skin.

The result is her patented SEEN formulas which are non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores) and nonirritating, products which use natural, skin-friendly ingredients that are color-safe and formulated without harmful sulfates, silicones, phthalates, parabens, dyes, gluten, or animal testing. She also included fragrancefree options for her patients with fragrance allergies or who simply prefer no fragrance.

Dr. Rubin didn’t set out to found a beauty company.

But when she saw a hole in the market for products that build confidence by promoting great hair—and great skin—she stepped in to fill it. “Acne can have a big psychological impact, eroding self-esteem and increasing the risk of depression,” she said. “And it’s not just a teenage issue but a growing issue among adult women.”

Dr. Rubin called her brand SEEN because she wants to empower her customers to feel good about being SEEN being their best self. The line includes skincaring shampoo, conditioner, blow-out crème, and curly crème, all of which are as good for your skin as they are for your hair. Formulas include plant-based, healthy ingredients such as hemisqualane, bisabolol, shea butter, squalane, ceratonia siliqua (carob tree), and moringa oleifera (horseradish tree).

“Think about it, if a product is on your hair, it’s also on your skin,” Dr. Rubin said. Skin-friendly SEEN products can be purchased at a Bluemercury near you.

THINK ABOUT IT, IF A PRODUCT IS ON YOUR HAIR, IT 'S ALSO ON YOUR SKIN. may 2021

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aesthetics

GE T A

l e g up VA R IC O S E V E I N S : C AU S E S A N D T R E AT M E N T OP T ION S

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

aricose veins can leave your legs looking like a confusing roadmap to nowhere, but there are treatment options available to put you on the path to more attractive, pain-free, smooth legs.

WHY YOU GET VARICOSE VEINS Think back to your middle school science class, and you will probably recall learning that arteries carry oxygen-rich blood away from your heart while veins take the oxygen-poor blood back to the heart. (There will not be a quiz on this later, but you can remember the words artery and away begin with the same letter.) When veins near the skin’s surface are damaged, the blood pools and veins become swollen, leaving you with enlarged, twisted, purplish, protruding veins.

An estimated 20% of adults experience swollen and enlarged veins resulting in leg pain, fatigue, swelling of feet and ankles, and making a person feel self-conscious. Causes include:

If your varicose veins are more chronic and bothersome, you don’t need to suffer in silence. Schedule an appointment for a physical exam with a doctor who diagnoses and treats varicose veins and venous insufficiency.

Your doctor may recommend one of the following procedures, which are typically performed in-office.

Genetics

Gender (women are more likely to develop varicose veins)

Pregnancy

Aging

Prolonged sitting or Standing

Obesity

HOME REMEDIES TO RELIEVE VARICOSE VEIN SYMPTOMS: Except for varicose veins that develop during pregnancy, they will not go away on their own. In milder cases, some home remedies may relieve symptoms. Exercising increases blood circulation in the legs, which helps push along blood that has collected in the veins. Wearing compression socks move blood toward the heart, helping your mild varicose veins feel better and possibly improving their appearance a bit.

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MINIMALLY INVASIVE VARICOSE VEIN TREATMENT OPTIONS

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Sclerotherapy is a common varicose vein treatment. Veins are injected with a chemical, which irritates the vein walls, causing them to stick together. Two or three treatments may be required, but there is virtually no downtime.

Laser treatments may be used on small varicose veins. Your doctor will direct laser light at the swollen veins. The veins darken and disappear after one to three months and multiple treatments. Most patients resume their normal activities the following day. Expect to be instructed to stay out of the sun for about a month following treatment.

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) or endovenous laser therapy (EVLT) may replace the need for surgery. Patients receive local anesthesia, and then a small incision is made to insert a catheter (for RFA) or a laser fiber (for EVLT) into the vein.

W hen your doctor activates the laser or radio frequency device, the vein is heated, causing it to collapse and seal shut.

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homestead

P L AY IN G

aro un d GET CREATIVE WHEN CREATING PRACTICAL AND PERSONAL SPACES FOR YOUR CHILDREN

BY C O U R T N E Y WA R R E N

Life with kids is an amazing adventure.

From the moment you unpack the first baby shower gif ts, children’s items begin to spill out into your spaces and transform them into a mess.

The question is, can our homes be kidfriendly without sacrificing every last square foot to their things? I vote yes.

BREAK WITH TRADITIONAL THINKING My clients decided that the best use of two bedrooms was to turn one into a shared bedroom for their daughters and the other into a designated play space for them. The girls love the cheery turquoise and magenta palette, the curtain-draped dollhouse beds, and the sweet accessories that reflect their love for horses. Another design choice that packed a punch was the plain wall that was transformed into a field of flowers.

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homestead | PL AY ING A ROUND

The shared playroom features bold floral wallpaper, a “Sisters” marquee sign, a fun teepee and dollhouse that offer lots of opportunities for imaginative play, and a storage bench and console to help corral the girls’ toys.

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homestead | PL AY ING A ROUND

GET PERSONAL When designing kid spaces, get the most bang for your buck by choosing a look that will grow with them. Get their input, then implement their preferences with the future in mind.

GET CREATIVE You might be saying, “This is great if I have dedicated areas, but what if I have to incorporate the kids’ activities in found spaces around my home? Creativity is the key!

Capture a space beneath the stairs for a snug kid hideout and playroom.

A light fixture, a bit of bright wallpaper or paint, a colorful rug, pint-sized furniture, and storage for toys or art supplies is all that’s needed to put this often-overlooked spot to good use. Guests coming over. Toss the toys in and shut the door!

Another client wanted a ballet studio for their daughter but didn’t have an obvious room. We found space on an empty wall and dreamed up the brick accent to give the “studio” that old-school look. Just add a supersize mirror and barre — done.

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A BOU T T HE DE SIGNER Courtney Warren is a Waxahachie interior designer whose award-winning work has been featured in numerous national magazines and media and whose clients span the North Texas area. She believes, “You deserve a beautiful home you can be proud of, and it doesn’t have to be complicated.”

Proverbs 17:22

A joyful heart is good medicine

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homestead

CLEAR

the air HOW TO IDENTIFY AND ELIMINATE HIDDEN THREATS TO THE AIR QUALITY IN YOUR HOME

BY C H E R Y L A L E X A N D E R

he Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that indoor air quality can often be two to five times worse than outdoor air quality.

Knowing how to monitor your indoor air quality and what specific pollutants to look out for can keep you and your family from experiencing acute and bothersome allergy symptoms and long-term health consequences. Some common intruders are dust, lint, mold, mildew, animal droppings hidden in the nooks and crannies of your home, smoke (from cooking, candles, or tobacco), pollen, pesticides, vehicle exhaust, pet dander, volatile organic compounds (such as hair spray or printer ink), radon (from the ground), asbestos, and even your own dead skin cells.

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homestead | CLE A R THE A IR

Taking a few steps to clean up your indoor air quality is simple, and in most cases, affordable.

INSTALL A WHOLE-HOUSE AIR PURIFIER A whole-home air purifier can reduce dust, pollen, and animal dander. It can kill bacteria, mold, and viruses and reduce odors and chemical emissions. They are not as expensive as you might think and can provide real benefits in improving air quality.

CLEAN YOUR FILTERS REGULARLY Your HVAC system has a built-in filter, but you must change it regularly. Investing in higher quality filters can also make a big difference. Don’t forget to change the vacuum cleaner bag.

Consider upgrading to HEPA quality bags to cut down on dust and particulate distribution. And change any portable air filters and other similar devices regularly.

CONTROL INDOOR HUMIDITY Summer in the South means high humidity outdoors and indoors, too, creating a breeding ground for mold and mildew — both respiratory irritants. An inexpensive solution is to install portable dehumidifiers. These can be noisy and require you to empty their catch basins often. If it’s in your budget, consider installing a whole-home dehumidifier in your HVAC system.

Clean your filters regularly

CLEAN DUCTS The HVAC ducts in your house are a major source of dirt, dust, animal dander, and more, especially if you live in an older home.

Schedule to have your home’s HVAC ducts professionally inspected and cleaned regularly. Not only can this reduce pollutants in your home, but clean ducts will distribute air more efficiently, reduce the load on your system, and might save you money.

IMPROVE KITCHEN VENTILATION Your kitchen is another major source of indoor pollution, especially if you cook with a gas stove. Even an electric range produces hazardous smoke. Use your range hood before you start cooking and run it for a few minutes after you finish. Open a window for a little more ventilation or run a fan in the window to suck the air out of the kitchen.

Install a whole-house air purifier

CLEAN BATHROOM EXHAUST FANS Use the exhaust fans in your bathroom to remove moisture and inhibit the growth of mold and mildew. Then, several times a year, remove the fan’s cover and vacuum out dust and debris to keep it clear. Consider replacing the existing exhaust fan with a higher performance model.

ESTABLISH A HOUSE CLEANING ROUTINE Allergens like pet dander, dust, chemical residue, and dead skin will settle on your home’s floors, in your carpets, and upon upholstery and other surfaces. The solution to this is simply good old-fashioned cleaning.

Embracing regular cleaning habits and making a few upgrades to your HVAC system will keep your home and family healthy and happy.

Establish a house cleaning routine

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TIPS FOR GROWING, COOKING, AND PRESERVING THESE FLAVORFUL PLANTS ew things are as satisfying for the home cook as preparing recipes with homegrown herbs. Your very own herb garden can be anything from a couple of pots on a windowsill to a large in-ground or raised-bed garden.

Begin with the herbs you like and use the most. Rosemary, oregano, and thyme are easy to grow, as are chives, basil, parsley, and cilantro. Mint is incredibly hardy, but be warned, when grown in the ground or a larger multi-herb container, it can quickly take over.

It’s better to restrict herbs like mint to individual pots.

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Herbs are versatile plants. Some grow in the winter months, while others thrive in the summer heat. Some herbs are perennials (e.g., sage, thyme, rosemary, chives, mint), and others are annuals that need to be replanted each growing season, such as basil, dill, cilantro, and parsley.

Many are also good companion plants. For instance, chives in your rose bed can ward off nemeses such as Japanese beetles, reduce black spot, and enhance the growth of your roses. Dill attracts beneficial insects to the garden, including ladybugs, butterflies, honeybees, and wasps. And certain herbs deter fleas, ticks, ants, mosquitos, and other pests.

Most herbs are sun lovers, doing best with six to eight hours of sun, rich soil, and good drainage.

While growing from seed is cheaper, there’s no shame in buying them as plants from a local nursery or grocery and home improvement stores that sell herb plants. Once they’ve taken root and started growing, you can snip and use them.

Snipping also promotes new growth and general plant health.

Enjoy your herbs fresh in cooking and preserve some for later. When preserving annual herbs, begin by rooting a few clippings for next year.

Simply cut off a stem, strip the bottom leaves, and stick it in water on a windowsill to root. Or dip the stem in rooting compound and plant it in a pot of seed starting mix. They can grow as pretty indoor plants in their off-season and be ready to plant when their season rolls around next year.

Oregano, rosemary, thyme, bay, and dill dry beautifully because they don’t have a high moisture content, and they’ll be fresher than the dry herbs you buy at the store. To dry your herbs, harvest them early in the day, then wash and pat them dry. Place them on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet in a 150° oven with the door slightly ajar for about four hours. Or you can hang them to dry or dry them in a dehydrator.

A great way to preserve your herbs is to create recipe-ready pesto, herb vinegar, or herb butter, which all make lovely gifts, too. Or freeze them on a cookie sheet, then store them in airtight containers or silicone ice cube trays with ¼ herb to ¾ olive oil. Fresh, dried, or frozen, there’s nothing like your very own herbs to make your recipes really sing!

IS FRESH ALWAYS BEST? Fresh herbs aren’t always your best choice.

Unless you’re growing them yourself, they can cost a fortune at the grocery store.

You’ll likely use a pinch in your recipe, and then the rest will spoil in your refrigerator unless you dry them. Fresh herbs are always preferable if you’re making a salad or pasta salad. And leafy herbs like parsley, tarragon, and chives are better fresh. But if you’re making a sauce, stew, or soup that will cook awhile, dried herbs are fine. In fact, oregano, marjoram, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, curry leaf, and fennel seed are actually better when dry. Dried herbs do lose potency over time, though. It’s best to toss them after a year.

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adventure

Riverbank

SOUTHERN

charm

A G I R L S ’ G E TAWAY T O N AT C H I T O C H E S , L O U I S I A N A

BY A N N ET T E B R OOKS

ave you ever met your girlfriends for dinner and wished the laughter, support, camaraderie, and fun could last longer than a few hours?

Then it’s time to plan a girls’ getaway. It’s good medicine for the heart and soul, and research supports this, indicating trips with friends can promote long-term happiness and better mental health.

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE Finding a destination that appeals to everyone in your group is essential.

Natchitoches (pronounced NAK-ə-təsh), where Steel Magnolias was fi lmed, is an ideal choice for many. Around a four-hour drive from both DFW and Houston, the oldest city in the Louisiana Purchase is steeped in history and offers a cultural blend of Spanish, Native American, African, Creole, and American influences. There are plenty of things to do, from shopping and dining in the Historic District to strolling along the Riverwalk by Cane River Lake and visiting historical sites.

STAY LOCAL Plan to stay at a B and B or rent a guest house for an immersive Natchitoches experience.

There are so many wonderful options, and it’s impossible to cover all of them.

The six-bedroom Steel Magnolia House Bed & Breakfast is the home where Sally Field and her family lived in the movie. A popular choice, which means you need to make reservations well in advance. It’s within walking distance of the historic downtown, decorated with beautiful antiques, and features original wood floors, a grand staircase, crystal chandeliers, and eight gas-lit fireplaces.

We loved the idea of having an entire house to ourselves for our party of five and chose the restored five-bedroom, three-bathroom Elizabeth Lane Guest House on Henry Avenue. Located a half-mile from the historic downtown, just over the Church Street Bridge, the 3,700 square foot house boasts a peaceful backyard with a saltwater pool, a screened-in back porch with fans, and a gourmet kitchen that includes a six-burner commercial stove.

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adventure | S OU THERN CH A RM

Steel Magnolia House Bed and Breakfast

ARRIVAL I was the fi rst to get there on a Thursday around 4 PM. After unpacking, I went to the grocery store to pick up the ingredients we had agreed on for breakfasts and for a Saturday night meal we’d prepare together in the kitchen.

Once everyone arrived and settled in, it was time for dinner at Merci Beaucoup Restaurant. The single-story building located near The Minor Basilica of Immaculate Conception Church was a pleasant walk from the house. We each enjoyed the Church Street salad tossed in a divine homemade orange dressing, then shared Crab St. Denis (crab cakes topped with crawfish etouffee) and an oyster plate among us. Ranked as one of Louisiana’s safest cities, we felt perfectly comfortable walking “home” in the evening after dinner.

Kaffie-Frederick General Mercantile Store

DAY ONE Eager to indulge in some retail therapy, we crossed the bridge to the quaint historic downtown, with its brick streets, live oaks and magnolia trees, and wrought-iron laced buildings. Browsing through specialty stores, we enjoyed talking with friendly merchants treating us to Southern hospitality Louisiana-style. The Kaffie-Frederick General Mercantile Store, established in 1863, is not to be missed. Its nostalgic charm is rare in this day and age, and they carry everything from souvenirs to distinctively unique items.

Finally, shopped out, we arrived at Lasyone’s Meat Pie Restaurant around 1 PM. The local favorite has served its share of celebrities and has been featured in numerous magazines. Their stick-to-your-ribs pies fi lled with meats and other savory ingredients aren’t for calorie counters. They’re for food lovers who want to sample local cuisine and step back in time. We started with Louisiana corn fritters served with honey and butter, then dug into a shared crawfish platter and a meat pie platter.

PHOTO CREDITS: Riverbank - Brian Jarreau; Tulips, Steel Magnolia House Bed and Breakfast, Natchitoches River Front, Riverbank Natchitoches Convention & Visitors Bureau, and Kaffie-Frederick General Mercantile Store

After such a lunch, a long walk along the Riverwalk was in order before taking an afternoon Friday cruise on the Cane River Queen Riverboat. Residents

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adventure | S OU THERN CH A RM

Natchitoches River Front

called out greetings to us as the captain provided a fascinating history of the area during the tour.

DAY TWO Part of what makes a girls’ getaway special is enjoying one another’s company at a relaxed pace. Most of us slept in Saturday morning, not having to worry about kids and family. Coffee and lively conversation were enjoyed by all on the screened-in back porch before we headed out for our Steel Magnolias fi lm tour.

Tour Boat on Riverbank

Afterward, we broke into two groups and went our separate ways. Three of us visited Melrose Plantation, which includes a collection of work by Clementine Hunter, a one-time Melrose cook that became one of Louisiana’s most celebrated primitive artists. The others visited Fort St. Jean Baptist Historic Site, a replica of an early French fort based upon Ignace Francois Broutin’s plans and on extensive archival research in Louisiana, Canada, and France.

Later, reassembled at the house, we took a dip in the saltwater pool, then prepared dinner together in the home’s fabulous kitchen. With the wine flowing freely, we talked about everything from family to marveling at how we made it through the COVID-19 lockdown.

Then we watched Steel Magnolias, a complex dive into the power of female friendship, sharing laughter and tears before retiring for the evening.

UNTIL NEXT TIME Before going our separate ways on Sunday morning, we huddled once again on the back porch, cradling mugs of coffee and picking from a platter of freshly cut fruit. Vowing to make our girls’ getaway an annual trip, we began floating ideas for our next adventure together, knowing we’d never forget our first to Natchitoches. To plan your unique adventure visit, Natchitoches.com.

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cuisine

FOOD

following T I P P I N G O U R H AT T O S O M E O F T E X A S ’ FA B U L O U S FEMALE CUISINE BLOGGERS

BY M E L I S S A TAT E

EASY DR. PEPPER STICKY WINGS SERVINGS: 4 | PREP TIME: 20 MINS. | COOK TIME: 30 MINS.

INGREDIENTS: ½ cup Dr. Pepper | ½ cup soy sauce | 2 Tbsp. freshly squeezed lime juice | ¼ cup ketchup | 2 Tbsp. yellow mustard | 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce | 1 to 2 chipotle chiles in adobo sauce, finely chopped | 1 Tbsp. garlic powder | 1 Tbsp. onion powder | 1 tsp. smoked paprika | ½ tsp. black pepper | 2 ½ pounds pre-cooked chicken wings | 2 Tbsp. butter | Salt to taste DIRECTIONS: WHISK togeth e r D r. Pe p pe r, so y sau c e, l i m e j u i c e , k e t c h u p, m u s t a r d , Wo r c e s t e r s h i r e s a u c e , c h i p o t l e c h i l e s , g a r l i c p o w d e r, o n i o n powd er, smoked papr ika , and bla ck pepper until well blended. ADD the butter to a large pot and melt over medium heat. ADD the wings to the pot and cover with marinade. BRING to a boil, stirring to make sure all the wings are coated, then cover the pot and turn heat to medium-low. COOK covered for 15 more minutes. REMOVE the lid, stir and cook 10 more minutes to allow the sauce to reduce. The wings are already cooked so remove at any time if you feel the sauce is ready. ADD salt if needed.

COOL a bit and serve with dipping sauce and veggies.

TIPS AND TRICKS

Home sick Texan or iginal recipe c alled for unc ooked w ings. T his recipe w as m odi f ied by Melis s a Ta te, m ak ing i t easier for week nigh t s and ga ther ings.

Inspired by Homesick Texan of Dallas. You can find more of Homesick Texan’s recipes at HomeSickTexan.com.

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cuisine | FOOD FOLLOW ING

.

1-MINUTE SUPER CREAMY AVOCADO DIP SERV ING S : 6 | T O TA L T IME : 5 MINS. INGREDIENTS: 2 fresh avocados | 1 lime, juiced

| ¼ cup evaporated milk | ⅓ cup mayonnaise | ½ tsp. salt | ¼ tsp. red pepper flakes | 1 ½ tsp. garlic powder | 1 ½ tsp. onion powder | ¼ tsp. black pepper DIREC T IONS : PL ACE a l l i n g r e d i e n t s i n a

TIPS AND TRICKS

T his dip is als o per fec t for tac o s, tac o s alads, and faji tas. It ’s a quick and eas y w a y to add s om e thing ex tra to your m eal.

blender and blend for 20 to 30 seconds or until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

TRANSFER to a bowl and top with a sprinkle of red pepper f lakes. SERVE immediately or cover and place in refrigerator for up to two days. ENJOY with chips, carrots, bell pepper, tomatoes, or any veggies of your choice.

Inspired by Easy and Delish of San Antonio. You c a n f i nd more Ea sy an d Deli sh recipes at EasyA ndDelish.com.

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cuisine | FOOD FOLLOW ING

TIPS AND TRICKS

You c an als o c ombine a c up of w alnu t s in to the mi x t ure and s t ir choc ola te chip s in to the mi x ra ther than placing them on top.

THE BEST HEALTHY BANANA BREAD SERV ING S : 12 | PREP T IME : 10 MINS. | BA KE T IME : 4 5 T O 50 MINS.

INGREDIENTS: 2 cups white whole wheat f lour | 1 tsp. baking soda | 1 tsp. cinnamon | ½ tsp. nutmeg | ¼ tsp. salt | 4 bananas, mashed | 1 banana for the top of the bread | ⅓ cup maple syrup | ⅓ cup coconut oil, melted | 1 ½ tsp. vanilla | 2 eggs | ¼ cup dark chocolate chips DIRECTIONS: PREHEAT oven to 350°. SPRAY a loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.COMBINE flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a medium bowl. ADD mashed bananas, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and 2 eggs to a large bowl. WHISK together until combined and smooth. POUR the f lour mixture into the wet mixture bowl and combine. POUR the banana bread mixture into the prepared loaf pan. CUT remaining banana in h alf an d pl a ce outer si d e d o w n in mi x t ure. ARRANGE d ark chocolate chips around bananas. BAKE for 45 to 50 minutes or test by inserting a toothpick and remove from the oven if the toothpick comes out clean.

Inspired by Joyful Healthy Eats of Houston. You can find more of Joyful Healthy Eats recipes at JoyfulHealthyEats.com.

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PHOTOS & FOOD BY

MELISSA TATE To follow her cooking adventures visit Meli s saTat eT X .c o m or find her on Instagram at

@MEL IS S ATAT E T X

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our picks | LI V ING LIK ES

A SMATTERING

of stuff

WELL CRAFTED

I use this 8-inch wide-tooth comb from Kent to work conditioner through my hair in the shower.

Handmade in England, their hand sawn combs are cut from large sheets of cellulose acetate with rounded teeth producing a comb that is great for sensitive scalps and can easily detangle all hair types. $10, AMA ZON.COM

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

BY H E AT H E R W I T H E R S P O O N

BAG BOOST

The Caffeine Solution from The Ordinary is a lightweight serum that contains a 5% concentration of caffeine, supplemented with highly purified epigallocatechin gallatyl glucoside (EGCG) from green tea leaves. This combination of high-solubility caffeine and green tea can help reduce the look of puffiness and dark circles under the eye. $7, SEPHORA.COM

CL ASSIC COCKTAIL

Skip the standard mimosa this Mother’s Day and treat yourself to a taste of France.

The St-Germain Spritz Ingredients: 3 oz. St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur 6 oz. Prosecco or other sparkling white wine Club soda Directions: Pour Prosecco into an ice-filled wine glass. Add St-Germain and top off with club soda. Stir gently and garnish with mint or lavender.

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ARTFUL ACCENT

Bring the outdoors in with this Embroidered Floral Square Throw Pillow from Opalhouse.

Its colorful embroidered pat ter n, a s wel l a s playful pom-pom edges, add a pop of color that is sure to liven up any space in your home. $25, TARGET.COM

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