December 2018

AUSTIN WOMAN MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2018

“There are little gems all around us that can hold glimmers of inspiration.” —Richelle Mead

The toughest race of his life started when his heart stopped.

For the past 6 years, Atwood Kenjura and his family have walked in a local 5K. In 2017, Atwood had a sudden cardiac arrest at the starting line.

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52

ON THE COVER

GIRL, GO MAKE IT HAPPEN

BY SHELLEY SEALE

59

Photo by Keith Trigaci.

FEATURE

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THE MAGIC OF GIVING

BY RACHEL RASCOE

CONTENTS

Photo courtesy of The Joule.

DECEMBER

39 SAVVY WOMEN

STYLE + HOME

20 COUNT US IN

43 T RENDING

22 G IVE BACK

Women in Numbers

Empowered Coffee

24 F ROM THE DESK OF 26 S TAFF PICKS

Pei Sim

Central Texas Holiday Traditions

28 S TART THE CONVO

How to Say No

ATX WOMEN TO WATCH 32 L OURDES LUCAS 33 DR. KELLIE REED 34 J ULI POWELL, DDS, AND ADA TILLER, DDS

Midway Magic

50 E NTERTAINING

Spinning a Holiday Yarn

GOURMET 66 R ECIPE REVEAL 68 F OOD NEWS

Hearty Turkey Pot Pie

La Volpe

70 S EE HER WORK

Mindy Sepeti

WELLNESS 74 W AITING ROOM

Beating Holiday Bloat

35 RACHEL ROSEN

76 H ER ROUTINE

MUST LIST

POINT OF VIEW

39 DISCOVER

Dallas’ Unexpected Gem

Ballet Austin’s Aara Krumpe

78 ON THE MONEY Rein in Holiday Spending 80 I AM AUSTIN WOMAN Cory Baker

ON THE COVER Photo by Keith Trigaci, trigaci.com Hair and makeup by Tiffany Taylor, justbeyoutify.com Shot on location at Central Standard, 1603 S. Congress Ave., centralstandardaustin.com

10 | AUSTIN WOMAN | DECEMBER 2018

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VOLUME 17, ISSUE 4 CO-FOUNDER Melinda Maine Garvey CEO Kip Garvey PUBLISHER Cynthia Guajardo Shafer

EDITORIAL MANAGING EDITOR Chantal Rice ASSISTANT EDITOR Courtney Runn CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Cory Baker, Nicholas Barancyk, Emily Benson, Rhoda Brimberry, Anna Crelia, Jenny Hoff, Niki Jones, Danielle Ortiz, Hannah J. Phillips, Rachel Rascoe, Chantal Rice, Courtney Runn, Gretchen M. Sanders, Shelley Seale, Shelby Woods

ART CREATIVE DIRECTOR Niki Jones CONTRIBUTING ARTISTS

Rudy Arocha, Carlos Benavides, Anne Marie Bloodgood, Shelly Borga, James Bruce, Max Burkhalter, Suzanne Cordeiro, R’Bonney Gabriel, Lindsey Granberry, Korey Howell, Niki Jones, EllieMae Leal, Annie Ray, Courtney Runn, Keith Trigaci, Carrin Welch, Jessica Wetterer

OPERATIONS AND MARKETING CFO

Ashley Goolsby MARKETING AND EVENTS MANAGER

Madilyn Biscoe OPERATIONS MANAGER

Poonam Patel

SALES ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Lindsey Granberry, Monika Kelley, Christine Moore

INTERNS Jess Arrazolo, Eva Arreola, Emily Benson, Evangelos Fuge, Meagan Leahy, Raylyn Nicole, Danielle Ortiz, Chika Otuata, Shelby Woods, Sara Zokaei

EMERITAE CO-FOUNDER Samantha Stevens EDITORS

Mary Anne Connolly, April Cumming, Elizabeth Eckstein, Deborah Hamilton-Lynne, Emily C. Laskowski Austin Woman is a free monthly publication of AW Media Inc., and is available at more than 1,000 locations throughout Austin and in Lakeway, Cedar Park, Round Rock and Pflugerville. All rights reserved.

For submission requirements, visit atxwoman.com/contribute.

No part of the magazine may be reprinted or duplicated without permission.

Visit us online at atxwoman.com.

Email us at info@awmediainc.com.

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ONTHEDOTWOMAN.COM

FROM THE MANAGING EDITOR COMMUNITY

PARTNERS

Publication of Austin Woman would not be possible without the support of our monthly advertisers and sponsors, who believe in the impact we are making in the Austin community. The following businesses have stepped up their support of our efforts beyond traditional advertising and we are proud to recognize them as our partners. The team at Austin Woman is grateful for these businesses that have shown their commitment to the advancement of women in Austin and hopes you, as readers, recognize their efforts and support these businesses and all our regular advertisers.

CYNTHIA GUAJARDO SHAFER

Publisher DIAMOND-LEVEL PARTNERS

COMMUNITY PARTNERS LAW OFFICE OF JANET MCCULLAR

I

have a confession to make: I love the holiday season. It’s true, I am one of those annoying people who probably welcomes the season a bit too early each year, longing to have the Christmas tree positioned front and center in the living-room window, trimmed to perfection and glowing in all its bejeweled glory by the first weekend of December (or Thanksgiving weekend, if I’m lucky).

I revel in snuggling into an ugly sweater to craft holiday gifts for loved ones. I often start my artsy pursuits prior to Halloween and will absolutely craft while watching any number of holiday movies. (White Christmas is still my all-time favorite, though Die Hard—yes, it’s totally a Christmas movie—comes in a close second!)

Come Thanksgiving, I already know what my Christmas menu will include—and there will always be more than one kind of pie. In fact, the food is definitely one of my favorite aspects of the holidays. From homemade Christmas cookies, fancy Champagne cocktails and smoked turkey to gourmet cheese trays and the best gravy this side of the Mississippi, holiday cuisine at my house unquestionably makes the season brighter.

But my most beloved characteristic of the holiday season is the kindheartedness and generosity with which people treat each other. Even among the swirling throngs of shoppers, the crush of traffic dashing here and there, the overall hectic pace of the season, I am warmed by the small acts of kindness and goodwill I see playing out among my fellow Austinites each holiday season.

In this Inspiration Issue of Austin Woman, we celebrate the holiday season and what it means in Central Texas, sharing heartwarming stories of compassion like those found in our feature story on Page 59 about three area nonprofits and their holiday-giving programs. We also offer up some solid advice for how to not bust your holiday budget (Page 78) and how to avoid gorging on all that tasty holiday food (Page 74). We even unwrap the AW staff’s favorite local holiday traditions (Page 26) and share how a long-standing Ballet Austin ballerina keeps in tip-top shape so she can regale audiences as the Sugar Plum Fairy in “The Nutcracker” year after year (Page 76).

And if it’s a little bit of life inspiration you’re in search of this holiday season, look no further than our cover story (Page 52) about Rachel Hollis, the mom, blogger, conference founder, author and media mogul who launched an exceptional career as an influencer before “influencer” was even a modern term. We’re sure you’ll find her impassioned journey to life and career success as inspirational as we have.

Whatever your plans for this holiday season, we encourage you to share some kindness with your loved ones, as well as with those you may not even know. After all, kindness begets kindness. We at Austin Woman wish you health, merriment, peace and joy. Happy holidays!

Cheers!

CHANTAL RICE

Join the conversation @AustinWoman #TheInspirationIssue

14 | AUSTIN WOMAN | DECEMBER 2018

Photo by Korey Howell.

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CONTRIBUTORS

This month, we asked our contributors: What do you enjoy most about the holidays?

KEITH TRIGACI

COVER STORY PHOTOGRAPHER, “GIRL, GO MAKE IT HAPPEN,” PAGE 52 Keith Trigaci is an Austin-based photographer who was lucky enough to recently move back to Texas from Los Angeles. When he isn’t doing commercial photography, he enjoys documenting life’s moments, including weddings and day-in-the-life family sessions.

“I love the downtime everyone gives themselves to enjoy the company of friends and family.”

GRETCHEN M. SANDERS

WRITER, “EN POINTE,” PAGE 76

Gretchen M. Sanders is a writer in Austin. She has worked in public radio and has a background in social work. She enjoys writing about science, transportation and health, and her work has appeared in Austin Woman, Austin Monthly, The Alcalde, Swimmer and The Dallas Morning News. When she’s not working on a story, this Louisiana native loves to read murder mysteries, run, swim and throw tennis balls for her yellow lab, Huey P. “I love the cooler weather and the chance to wear boots, tights, skirts and sparkly tops. I like hanging Christmas lights while my homemade holiday potpourri simmers on the stove. Above all, I enjoy sipping festive cocktails with friends at The Driskill Hotel.”

ELLIEMAE LEAL

HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTIST, “MIDWAY MAGIC,” PAGE 43 EllieMae Leal is one half of a collaborative duo called The Hybrid Canvas, which provides on-location hair and makeup services. Her passion is in fashion and production, and she has worked in the beauty industry for 12 years, specializing in bridal and special-occasion services. You can see her work at thehybridcanvas.com.

Upcoming events: Handel’s Messiah Aso with chorus Austin december 4, 8:00 p. m. at Hyde park Baptist church (Austin) december 5, 8:00 p. m. at emmaus catholic church (Lakeway) cHristmas in tHe community december 1 tHrougH 20 various locations throughout Austin

HAndeL’s Messiah

“eLLA & LoUis”

NICHOLAS BARANCYK

WRITER, “BORDER WALLS,” PAGE 28

december 29 & 30, 8:00 p. m. “ella & louis” Butler pops series with carmen Bradford & Byron stripling at palmer events center c o n c e rt s p o n s o rs Messiah : co ok- Walden Fune ral Homes & ce meter ies W eed- corley-FisH Fune ral Homes cHristmAs: macy’ s e LLA & LoUis : me rce des-benz oF aus tin

cHristmAs in tHe commUnity

“My favorite part of the holiday season is coming together with my family and decorating the Christmas tree. It is always full of laughs and at least three broken ornaments.”

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Nicholas Barancyk found himself in the world of journalism through a love of creative writing. After earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from Indiana University Bloomington, he’s gone on to publish pieces in Millennial Magazine, Austin Fit and Austin Woman.

He likes to focus on narrative-driven stories and draws much of his inspiration from his journeys abroad. In his spare moments, he spends his time cultivating far too many ferns and writes posts for fantasy/comedy blog The Barrowhill Enquirer.

“It’s the food; the huge quantities of hearty, rich food and the freedom to brazenly eat soup under a blanket.”

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DEALING WITH CHRONIC PAIN Dr. Genaro Gutierrez, what pain syndromes do you typically treat in women?

Women are prone to developing chronic pain after surgery, trauma or just organically. I see women with chronic headaches, complex regional pain syndrome, pelvic pain from endometriosis and from physical activity. One exciting emerging therapy for sports injuries is regenerative medicine, enhancing the body’s own natural ability to heal itself.

Can you tell us what it means to have chronic pain?

Chronic pain is defined as pain that has been persistent for more than three months, or beyond the expected recovery or healing time for an injury. Unfortunately, sometimes chronic pain is permanent pain. My job is to introduce both classic and novel methods to reduce a person’s daily suffering and make their pain much more manageable on a daily basis.

DR. GENARO GUTIERREZ Pain Specialists of America

After earning his bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Texas, Dr. Genaro Gutierrez completed medical school at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio. His work in anesthesiology at George Washington University Hospital in Washington, D.C., was recognized for excellence. He completed a fellowship at Harvard’s Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center among leaders in interventional pain management.

He authors textbook chapters and is published in peer-reviewed journals. His medical interests include whiplash, complex regional pain syndrome and neuromodulation.

Gutierrez, a native Austinite, enjoys cycling and jogging, and makes a strong attempt to play golf. He’s fluent in Spanish.

“To see a patient that hasn’t walked in several months or a year and then having her back up and walking without any crutches,” he says, “is incredibly rewarding.”

“There is a lot we can do about these issues without resorting to oral medications to calm the pain.”

What are some of the most common conditions you treat?

I see a large variety of chronic-pain syndromes, starting with the very basic degenerative-arthritis pain cases of the neck, low back, knees and hips. I also see a substantial amount of neuropathy in my practice that can stem from nerve damage from chronic diabetes, chemotherapy, surgeries or trauma. We also see a lot of chronic headaches in our practice. There is a lot we can do about these issues without resorting to oral medications to calm the pain.

Can you name some of these treatments?

For spine pain due to degenerative arthritis, there is a really neat treatment that targets the specific small nerves that communicate pain from the small joints of the spine (facet joints) with a specialized needle that creates discreet thermal lesions to these nerves and renders them unable to communicate pain. This typically lasts for 12 months at a time, but in some cases, it can last longer. This same concept and technology can also be applied to other joints in the body.

What if the patient is terrified of needles?

Not to worry. Our pain center can provide safe and effective IV sedation under the care of a licensed anesthesiology provider to make sure your procedure and experience are as smooth and painless as possible.

What is spinal-cord stimulation?

Spinal-cord stimulation has been getting a lot of press these days, and rightfully so. This technology has actually been available for decades but in the last couple years, there have been tremendous advances in both convenience of the therapy and improved efficacy. Spinal-cord stimulation is a minimally invasive therapy targeting specific bundles of nerves within the spinal cord in order to calm pain in the spine, extremities and even pain in the chest and abdomen. It is most commonly used for the unlucky but rare situation in which a person has undergone spine surgery for degenerative or traumatic conditions, but for whom, unfortunately, the pain never went away. I also perform this on many people that are simply not candidates for spine surgery or for any additional spine surgery. I work very closely with many of the spine specialists in Austin and Round Rock, Texas, to identify patients that would benefit from this modality. This treatment also works very well for peripheral neuropathy and nerve-pain syndromes. It is also gaining a lot of traction in chronic pelvic-pain syndromes.

Is this done in a hospital?

We do all of our spinal-cord stimulation cases as outpatient surgery.

What are your favorite cases to treat?

My favorites also happen to be the most challenging. These include complex regional pain syndrome and cancer-pain syndromes. Both are very rewarding to treat but challenging because of recurrence. My goal is always to do my best to provide people with more good days than bad daysmore as they cope with theirvisit condition.

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CONNECT WITH US! IN CASE YOU MISSED IT… ➥ Con’ Olio Oils & Vinegars. Tabatha Conarko, the co-founder and proprietor of Austin’s deluxe olive-oil tasting bar and boutique, shares her thoughts about Con’ Olio’s first decade in business, working to educate Austinites about topof-the-line olive oils and the power of community.

➥ RideAustin. The local nonprofit ride-share app is heeding safety concerns

from female customers by launching its female-driver option, which is now available to all riders in the Austin area who identify as female. As the only ride-share service to offer this preference locally, RideAustin is paving the way for safer rides for women.

Gals. The all-female music-booking group is striking a chord with the ➥ Howdy Austin music scene, working to be gender-inclusive when scheduling artists at the area’s hottest venues, all with the goal of encouraging diversity while also creating a safer environment for female music fans.

➥ AtxGals. Monica Ceniceros, painter and co-founder of AtxGals, a female-

run group that hosts regular pop-up shows featuring female artists, chats about the organization’s commitment to donating proceeds to femaleempowerment nonprofits, its growing network of local female artists and how best to support them.

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THE MRS EMPOWERMENT PACKAGE In honor of our Inspiration Issue, we’re teaming up with local all-female alternative-rock band The Mrs to pamper one lucky Austin Woman reader with a special package of awesome goodies that includes a vinyl print of The Mrs’ inspiring new release, “Five Minutes,” adorable flower earrings, a sassy The Mrs Tshirt and a beautiful home-delivered floral arrangement.

The winner will also receive two tickets to The Mrs’ next performance. To enter to win, follow us on Instagram @austinwoman and stay on the lookout for the giveaway announcement in midDecember. A winner will be chosen and notified by the end of the month.

FOLLOW US

@austinwoman

18 | AUSTIN WOMAN | DECEMBER 2018

LIKE US

MISS Austin Community Foundation Women’s Fund Keyholder’18 Dec. 4, 5 to 8:30 p.m.

Topfer Theatre at Zach, 202 S. Lamar Blvd. keyholderaustin.org Austin Woman Winter Launch Party Dec. 5, 6 to 8 p.m.

Roger Beasley Mazda Central, 6825 Burnet Road atxevent.com The Paper + Craft Pantry Intro to Holiday Garlands Workshop Dec. 9, 3:30 to 5 p.m.

The Paper + Craft Pantry, 1023 Springdale Road thepapercraftpantry.com Family Eldercare’s 80 Over Eighty Nomination Deadline Dec. 31 80 Over Eighty challenges Central Texans to discover, share and celebrate the stories of older adults living life to the fullest.

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Tabatha Conarko photo courtesy of Con’ Olio Oils & Vinegars. Howdy Gals photo courtesy of Howdy Gals. AtxGals photo courtesy of Monica Ceniceros. Win This photo by Courtney Runn.

Check us out at atxwoman.com.

Dear Self: I’m proud of who you were, who you are now, and who you will become.

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WOMEN IN NUMBERS

This holiday season, philanthropic women are proving it’s better to give than to receive.

BY DANIELLE ORTIZ, ILLUSTRATIONS BY JESSICA WETTERER

1 for 1 Mitscoots Outfitters is an innovative Austin-based clothing brand that aims to help people transition out of homelessness. While volunteering on the streets of Austin, the founders recognized that after food and water, the greatest request from homeless Austinites was quality clothing, so they launched Mitscoots Outfitters. For every hat, shirt, scarf, pair of socks and gloves purchased, it donates an equal item to someone in need. The company also works with local shelters and organizations to recruit and train its workforce.

50,000 Girls Girls Empowerment Network hopes to ignite the power of 50,000 young girls by 2020. Focusing on increasing the social and academic success of adolescent girls in the Austin area, GEN teaches girls the skills to thrive and to believe in their abilities. Each year, the nonprofit helps more than 15,000 girls. GEN always welcomes volunteers and accepts charitable contributions at any level, making every dollar count, with donations impacting girls directly.

68 Percent Hey Austin, you’re feeling pretty philanthropic these days. In the past 10 years, charitable giving in Austin has increased significantly, with 68 percent of Austinites (That’s more than two-thirds!) reporting they gave $100 or more to charitable organizations in the past year. And according to the 2018 Greater Austin Civic Health Index, many residents say they would donate even more if they knew what the community really needed.

89 Percent When it comes to charitable giving, studies show women are more likely to donate than men—and are donating more. Compared with men their age, female baby boomers give 89 percent more to charity, according to one study from the Women’s Philanthropy Institute.

In fact, the study claims women at nearly every economic level give more philanthropically than their male counterparts, despite the widespread and everpresent gender pay gap.

20 | AUSTIN WOMAN | DECEMBER 2018

1,500 Women Raven + Lily is an Austinbased fashion and lifestyle brand that employs more than 1,500 artisan women in several countries. These jobs empower women by providing fair wages, sustainable income, health care and more.

Furthermore, every Raven + Lily purchase helps fund life-changing microloans to female entrepreneurs throughout the world.

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AN EMPOWERING PICK-ME-UP

One local coffee shop is serving up employment opportunities for intellectually disabled individuals in Austin.

BY EMILY BENSON

tennis and powerlifting events at the Special Olympics.

While Empowered Coffee employees build a connection with the community, they also acquire valuable life skills.

“They’re learning accounting, customer service, quality control, ordering supplies, appropriately managing the stock—aside from also knowing how to make coffee,” Davis explains proudly. “We’re starting [to sell] gift baskets online. They’re Prior to opening Emnow learning e-compowered Coffee, Kim merce. Really, they do Davis founded RunLab all of it!”

Austin, a training and When asked about educational facility the greatest challenge catered toward runners the coffee shop faces, of every background, Davis notes the gap besize and experience tween the viral attenlevel. Davis works with tion Empowered Coffee a wide array of individuhas received online and als, including professionpeople actually making al athletes, recreational it into the shop. runners and those with “In the short amount special needs, to help of time that we’ve been improve and encourage open, we’ve had supphysical fitness in the port from the commucommunity. nity on social media,” “We worked with a Davis shares, “but at girl who has Down syn“People who haven’t been exposed to the end of the day, that doesn’t drome and helped her train for the translate to revenue to support special-needs [individuals] will come in Austin Half Marathon,” Davis says. the business. There is a discon“Her name is Kayleigh Williamson nect from people following us and say, ‘This is amazing.

I had a great and she was the impetus for starting virtually and actually coming a group called Kayleigh’s Club, which cup of coffee served by somebody who into our shop and buying coffee was a group for people with special from our kids.” needs who wanted to work on their was happy to see me and remembered Despite an informative online physical fitness and run alongside video that now has more than a typical runners.” my name when I came in.’ ” million hits, Empowered Coffee Davis and her team wanted to conis still establishing its reputatinue working with the special-needs tion in Austin.

However, Davis anticipates the notoriously socially community and create a for-profit business through which disabled indiconscious Austin community will turn out in increased numbers as viduals could have meaningful employment. From this vision, Empowword spreads. ered Coffee was born.

The spectacle of Empowered Coffee on social media has piqued This unconventional coffee shop exclusively hires those who are the interest of many Austin residents, and those who decide to meanintellectually or developmentally disabled and pays employees higher der into the shop on a crisp morning are often pleasantly surprised wages than most coffee shops in town. The warmth emanating from by the friendliness of the staff. the staff has created a loyal fan base of supporters who routinely visit to “People who haven’t been exposed to special-needs [individuals] catch up with their favorite baristas. will come in and say, ‘This is amazing. I had a great cup of coffee Haley McDaniel, an easygoing 22-year-old with a knack for baking, served by somebody who was happy to see me and remembered has garnered quite a group of devoted weekend regulars. When she’s not my name when I came in,’ ” Davis says. “That’s not something that at work, McDaniel follows Davis’ core principles, making sure to priorihappens [at other coffee shops] on a day-to-day basis.” tize fitness and her physical health. This summer, she will compete in 22 | AUSTIN WOMAN | DECEMBER 2018

Photo courtesy of Empowered Coffee.

Located in the heart of Austin, Empowered Coffee has found early success thanks to a special group: its staff. With a team comprised of intellectually disabled individuals, Empowered Coffee is backed by unwavering support from the local community. It’s a model that has enabled this quaint coffee shop to flourish since its opening in March.

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FROM THE DESK OF

PEI SIM

The paper pusher extraordinaire shares her secrets for avoiding holiday burnout as a small-business owner.

BY HANNAH J. PHILLIPS

For Pei Sim, founder of The Paper + Craft Pantry, her business is about more than paper; it’s about people. Prior to setting up her own store in 2015, Sim’s small-business journey started in design, with her selling her stationery online and at pop-up markets. When wholesaling at national tradeshows became the logical next step, Sim opted to put her own designs on the back burner, opening a small studio on the Eastside to showcase the work of other makers and creators.

PRIORITIZE SELF-CARE.

“A big thing I’ve realized is that when I’m at work, I can get caught up with what I do and forget to eat because I love what I do. Prepare food and make sure you’re moving…even just walking around the building, taking a breath.

Meditation takes different forms. For me, it happens to be taking care of the plants since we have so many.”

As the business blossomed, Sim moved into a new space on Springdale Road earlier this year. Surrounded by other artists, she enjoys having more space to manage workshops and display paper—and loves having more sunlight for her plants. In November, her business came full circle when she launched an in-house collection of locally printed stationery.

Apart from selling paper, Sim relishes the opportunity to support other small-business owners in her ever-popular workshops. Ranging from learning how to embroider to mastering power tools, her classes empower the featured artist and equip attendees with new skills. The events make especially popular gifts during the holidays since they combine handmade crafts with quality time. Dec. 15, the studio hosts a holiday market of local vendors that will highlight women-owned businesses and feature everything from ceramics to home goods, apothecary items and more.

With so much going on during the holidays, we asked Sim to share how she avoids burnout as a small-business owner in a busy season.

BE OK WITH SAYING NO.

“I can be afraid of saying no when I’m worried what other people will think, but I’ve learned that I need to say no in order to be present and have a great holiday season. If you’re doing too much, something will slip.”

LEARN WHEN TO SAY YES.

“I say yes to things that I don’t second-guess. If there’s even an inkling of a maybe, it needs to be a no. It’s counterintuitive, but saying no to a bunch of little things allows me to say yes to bigger things that are in line with what I want to do.”

“One example is that we are closed on Mondays and always will be. Since we’re open weekends, I need that one day to catch up, and I schedule time off the same way I schedule my work. If I’m working a ton one week and I know there are a lot of events, I will usually just pick one rather than going to them all.”

REACH OUT FOR SUPPORT.

“Don’t be afraid to find other people who are doing what you’re doing and are in the same season of owning a business. It’s important to realize that you are not alone and they may offer insight that you haven’t thought of.”

24 | AUSTIN WOMAN | DECEMBER 2018

Photo by Shelly Borga, Dakota & Co.

SET BOUNDARIES AND KNOW YOUR LIMITS.

ELEGANT BUSINESS GIFTS + AWARDS

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STAFF PICKS

’TIS THE SEASON

The AW staff shares our favorite Central Texas holiday traditions during the most wonderful time of the year.

CHANTAL RICE MANAGING EDITOR

“Winter Wonderland at Circuit of the Americas has become our new holiday tradition. Sipping hot cocoa while extending season’s greetings to Santa and checking out the singing trees, tunnel of lights, live music and petting zoo is truly magical. I’m particularly looking forward to Winter Wonderland’s new Chinese lantern festival this season.”

CYNTHIA GUAJARDO SHAFER PUBLISHER

“I love attending A Christmas Affair. I usually attend with my mother.

It’s a time to meet up with old and new friends while finding unique Christmas gifts. This event, put on by the Junior League of Austin, gives thousands and thousands of dollars to local charities.”

MELINDA GARVEY AUSTIN WOMAN FOUNDER

Photos courtesy of respective events.

“My family goes to the Trail of Lights every year! It’s the perfect holiday activity since it transcends age; both my son and parents enjoy it. I love how all generations of Austinites come together to see the lights at the trail!”

26 | AUSTIN WOMAN | DECEMBER 2018

COURTNEY RUNN ASSISTANT EDITOR

“Every year, I go to the Mozart’s Coffee light show. I love sipping on hot chocolate and watching the light show every year. The couple that owns Mozart’s plans the show months in advance and sees it as their gift to the community. They mix up the songs and light configurations so it’s new each year!”

POONAM PATEL OPERATIONS MANAGER

“Going to Mozart’s Coffee at least once every winter is becoming my Austin holiday tradition. I enjoy sitting on the back porch and watching the holiday light show while sipping a yummy hot beverage. I love Christmastime and am looking forward to gifting a bag of Mozart’s annual holiday roast, which has special holiday-lights packaging this year.”

NIKI JONES

MADILYN BISCOE

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

MARKETING AND EVENTS MANAGER

“We love to take The Floof Crew (our gaggle of four Pyrenees dogs) to Johnson City, where the Pedernales Electric Cooperative illuminates the giant oak trees on their campus with 1.3 million white lights, creating the most spectacular canopy.”

“My tradition is ice skating on the Plaza at Whole Foods.

I try to go every year with my family. We have a lot of littles in the fam and it is fun for them and us. It almost makes you forget it’s 80 degrees outside!”

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START THE CONVO

BORDER WALLS

Construct better relationships by installing stronger boundaries.

BY NICHOLAS BARANCYK

Boundary: a point or limit that indicates where two things become different. It’s an intrinsic moment of change, and though the word has many definitions, it’s come to apply to our emotional lives in those moments when the acceptable becomes not, when we insist upon setting our personal boundaries.

When these doubts arise, Bray says the best response is to note it then let it be.

“Don’t argue with it or logic it,” she says. “That is feeding this monster and just going to make it last longer.”

These feelings can last for weeks, she explains, but they do dissipate with time. And the more women place themselves in these situations, the more they persevere through that pathological guilt, the faster it fades.

Employing this process of exposure and response prevention weakens anxiety through habituating yourself with undesired thought patterns and their triggered reactions. Bray points out labeling these patterns can help you more easily notice them.

“Name it to tame it,” she says. “Observing it struggle with disentangles you from the thought.”

These borders can be used in both positive and detrimental ways.

However, Samantha Bray, a licensed clinical social worker, says for women, creating beneficial boundaries can be particularly challenging.

“I think women struggle with setting boundaries around their time,” she says. “They’ll do everything for their family or their kids and let their own self“I think women care go.”

That time adds up. A study from the setting boundaries around their THE RIGHT WALLS Organisation for Economic Co-operation When identifying values, Bray says to place time. They’ll do everything for and Development found that, on average, everything you hold important within a U.S. women shoulder 243 minutes of their family or their kids and figurative circle. It can be freedom, family, unpaid labor daily and 93 more minutes love or whatever core beliefs you want to live let their own self-care go.” than men. These are minutes spent by. Outside of that circle lay the antonyms: cleaning, cooking and ferrying kids from confinement, loneliness, hatred, etc. And school to soccer. that circle, it’s your border.

But these lost hours aren’t just confined to the family. They bleed into But borders should be functional. They should be fluid. personal relationships, sex and the workplace.

“My boundary is not a brick wall,” Bray says, noting there are Bray says having a firm line of what is allowed will not only empower feelings that need, say, a work visa, those like anger, for instance. “I women, but also inspire respect in those in their lives. don’t want to live in a house with someone who’s angry all the time.

But that’s an emotion I want to draw on when I need to.”

STONE BY STONE She explains utilizing anger is crucial for women because it grants Standing up for your values can feel like a contradiction to how you were them the power and courage to stand up and use their voice. Perhaps raised, Bray says, especially for women who are “sometimes taught not for that reason, it’s an emotion that receives a negative stigma when to set boundaries, to be nice, to cater to another person’s needs.” women channel it, which Bray says is all the more reason to let it in.

Working against that rearing can evoke feelings of guilt or fears of Balancing boundary fluidity is at best a tricky process. What stays disappointment. But she notes this isn’t normal guilt that stems from in and out changes from person to person and is entirely dependent acting in a way you know is wrong. Instead, it’s doubt about perceived on your nonnegotiable boundaries. But with practice and introspection, consequences. They’re second thoughts that bubble up because you you’ll gradually uncover your bounds, making it that much easier to stood by your beliefs, and apologizing to eradicate those feelings means collapsing on your values. say no.

JUST SAY NO Check out these practical suggestions for setting better boundaries and saying no.

2. S leep on it. Don’t jump to an immediate conclusion. Give yourself time to consider the ask others are making of you. Sleep and approaching the idea with a clear mind may change your perspective.

3. B e decisive. Should you decide to say no to a request at work, at home or from friends or family, be succinct and intentional. Don’t feel the need to over apologize or give an extensive reason why you’re saying no.

4. S uggest an alternative solution. Maybe you can’t agree to a task currently but can offer a different fix to the issue.

5. D itch the guilt. Once you’ve made up your mind to say no, stick to it. You have the right to say no and shouldn’t feel bad about it. Most people will appreciate your candor.

28 | AUSTIN WOMAN | DECEMBER 2018

Photo courtesy of Samantha Bray.

1. A ssess the situation. Weigh the benefits versus disadvantages of agreeing to something. If the advantages outweigh the drawbacks, maybe this is something you’re willing to agree to. However, if the stress of it exceeds the advantages, it should be a clear no for you.

Take a bite out of something important.

As we approach the holidays, our thoughts naturally turn to our families and the blessings that we, as Americans, enjoy. But, even in this nation of plenty, still there are many among us who struggle every day to provide food for themselves and their children.

In the true spirit of Thanksgiving and Christmas, the doctors and team of Austin Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery have made a contribution to the Central Texas Food Bank. We encourage everyone – our patients, our colleagues, our friends, to join with us in doing whatever they can to help provide a bit of hope and some real help for those in our community who struggle – every day – to have enough food.

A legacy of exceptional care.

Cedar Park Central Austin

Dripping Springs Georgetown

Harker Heights La Grange

Lakeway Marble Falls

N. Central Austin San Marcos

South Austin Temple

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LOURDES LUCAS

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ourdes Lucas founded Esthetique Vogue with a commitment to provide high-quality concierge skincare and makeup services in a 1980s new-wave-indulged setting. Her experiences have led her to locales throughout the world in the entertainment industry in both creative and administrative roles as a dancer and as a personal assistant for artists with Live Nation. Esthetique Vogue is the first professionalservices company to incorporate Madonna’s Mdna line in such a unique setting. Esthetique Vogue offers elite services, including the pre-red-carpet Intraceuticals oxygen treatment, also known as the celebrity facial. In tribute to her rock-’n’-roll heritage, all services are named for thoughtfully chosen song titles, like the Simple Minds’ New Gold Dream 24-karat gold and caviar facial and the Dead or Alive You Spin Me Rezenerate collagen-induction therapy. Lucas is a Louisiana native who relocated to Austin with her two daughters, Lucia and Valentina. esthetiquevogue.com

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DR. KELLIE REED

D E R M AT O L O G I S T AT S A N O VA D E R M AT O L O G Y

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r. Kellie Reed is a board-certified dermatologist at Sanova Dermatology. She’s had a passion for a career in health since early childhood. Growing up with a chronically ill father due to multiple sclerosis and his passing when she was 18 years old further motivated Reed to pursue medicine so she could impact others’ lives through health care. Reed is a native Texan, originally from El Paso. She is a graduate of the Business Honors Program at the University of Texas McCombs School of Business. She completed her medical training at McGovern Medical School in Houston. She returned to Austin to complete her residency, and ultimately stayed for private practice. Reed specializes in general medical dermatology, including skin cancer, acne and eczema, as well as aesthetic skin care, including fillers, Botox and Kybella. She is passionate about her patient care and attention to detail, and her positive attitude provides a sense of comfort for her patients. Follow her on Instagram @Skin_Dr_Reed. sanovadermatology.com

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WOMEN to WATCH

JULI POWELL , D DS , AN D ADA T I LLER , D DS DENTISTS AND PHIL ANTHROPISTS

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entists Juli Powell and Ada Tiller of Powell & Tiller Dental Care have cared for the smiles of Austinites young and old for 25 years. While they have always loved meeting, caring for and becoming old friends with their many patients, they also care for those outside their practice by providing charitable dentistry at clinics as close as Austin and Round Rock, Texas, to as far away as Zambia, Africa. But in 2018, they took it one step further by establishing Powell & Tiller Dental Care’s Cause of the Month.

So far this year, Powell and Tiller have given to health-related charities such as the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Disabled American Veterans Charitable Service Trust, the Alzheimer’s Association and many others. “Our patients are excited to learn what we are giving to each month and feel a part of it,” Tiller says. When asked if with all this, they still have time for new patients, Powell replies, “Absolutely! Our doors are always open.” austinfamilydds.com

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WOMAN to WATCH

RACHEL ROSEN F O U N D E R O F S . P. A . R . K .

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achel Rosen, a native Texan, is on a mission to spark a global conversation about inclusion, equity and courageous leadership. As the founder of S.P.A.R.K., a multitiered enterprise, she helps educational leaders and institutions make progress on their equity/ inclusion goals. Integrity and intentionality are core to Rosen’s approach, and she has developed customized frameworks, assessments and tools for clients like the National Association for College Admissions Counseling. Rosen is also the founder of an interactive card game, S.P.A.R.K., which is a community-building tool for schools, organizations and families. Rosen has a master’s degree from Stanford University and extensive training in leadership and organizational development, and her work is grounded in theory and practice.

She is thrilled to be back in Texas with her partner and family. rachelvrosen.com

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SAVE THE DATE FOR MAY 9, 2019

& Dos Don’ts for Effective Co-parenting

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Whether balancing new parenting responsibilities with work expectations or managing difficult emotions, there are many challenges a parent faces after a separation or divorce. Fortunately, there are certain steps parents can take to make the post-divorce/ separation period more manageable for them and their children. As a family lawyer, I recommend these tips for helping parents navigate this difficult transition so children can feel secure and loved in their new family structure.

WHAT TO DO

WHAT NOT TO DO

1. Plan and communicate. Communication with the other parent is essential. This can be accomplished by developing visual schedules, setting up family meetings or writing notes.

If communication is a challenge, it may be useful to work with a child specialist or parenting coordinator to facilitate effective communication.

1. Keep score. Avoid counting the hours and minutes of time you spend with your children and comparing this with the other parent’s time. Instead, focus on making your time with your children the best it can be. Avoid saying, “I just do not know what I am going to do without you.”

2. Be flexible. There will be times when your child’s co-parent cannot follow the schedule and will need help with parenting responsibilities. The more you can accommodate the other parent in these situations, the stronger your relationship will become and the more your children will benefit. By staying open to compromise and being flexible with the other parent, you are doing what is best for the child by putting his or her needs first.

2. React too quickly. When responding to your co-parent after separation or divorce, take the time to respond thoughtfully, particularly if emotions are running high. Many parents do much better if they draft a response, sleep on it, show it to a neutral friend or a professional and revise it if necessary before sending.

3. Take care of yourself. Plan how you spend your time without your children. Exercise, take a class, meet with friends and enjoy quiet time to yourself. Your children will do much better if they know you are healthy and happy with and without them.

3. Hold onto the past. Get help if you find yourself still talking about how hurt and angry you are long after your divorce is finalized. There are outstanding therapists and small group-therapy sessions that can assist you in moving forward.

The most important thing to remember in all of this is that even in the most amicable situations, children are affected by their parents’ separation or divorce. However, your efforts to effectively manage your emotions and work cooperatively with your co-parent will help create a secure and safe harbor for your children as they navigate their new family structure.

Kelly Ausley-Flores focuses on complex family-law cases involving complicated property divisions, family businesses, spousal maintenance and customized possession schedules when parents work irregular hours. She is committed to helping individuals regain their voice and confidence so they can successfully move forward with their lives after divorce. Ausley-Flores is a partner at the family-law firm GoransonBain Ausley. She is a fellow in the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and was named Best Lawyer of the Year in Austin for Family Law in 2017, 2014 and 2012. She is board-certified in family law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

For more information about family law, divorce or effective co-parenting strategies, contact Kelly Ausley-Flores at 512.454.8791 or gbafamilylaw.com.

MUST LIST

MEDIA MIX

Dallas hotel The Joule has an art collection that will justify skipping the museums.

Photo by Niki Jones.

BY NIKI JONES

Strolling down Main Street in Dallas, deep in the heart of the Arts District, passersby would be hard-pressed not to notice a giant eyeball looming over a picturesque and beautifully manicured park. Three stories tall, the eyeball looks as realistic as if it were plucked from a colossal human face, complete with red blood vessels in the sclera and a precisely detailed deep-blue iris.

This eye-catching (pun intended) installation is Tony Tasset’s “Eye” and is part of The Joule hotel’s ever-changing art collection featuring more than 50 pieces.

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UST LIST

DISCOVER

A MUSEUM WHERE PEOPLE SLEEP The Joule is, by most anyone’s standards, a luxury hotel. Housed in a 1920s neo-Gothic building and opened in 2008, it was the vision of Dallas oil tycoon Tim Headington, and the art collection, as well as the hotel, belongs to him. The collection is predominantly contemporary and spans the era of 1956 to 2016. The prodigious mix of media is in itself a major point of interest: Neon, a subway window, car engines and fiberglass serve as compelling media choices for some of the pieces. Lesser-known artists share the space with more famous works, including Andy Warhol’s “Electric Chairs.”

Exhibited mostly on the hotel’s main floor, the artwork is displayed in a manner that is very accessible to visitors, allowing viewers to get up close and take in the details.

As to the flow, the collection circles the lobby and makes its way through the building’s main floor, passing the hotel’s intimate lobby bar. (Try to name a museum where visitors can grab a nightcap!)

On the main floor of The Joule, there is ample seating everywhere; settees, sofas and club chairs are scattered throughout the space. Taschen Library, a bookstore stacked to the rafters with the noted publishing house’s signature coffee-table art books, is a visual oasis where bibliophiles can easily spend hours.

“We want to be a place where members of the community can come and work or just hang out and enjoy the art and books,” says Dan Macey, The Joule’s guest-relations ambassador, whose enthusiasm for the collection is infectious. “I believe we have created a unique space where there is something for everyone.”

ELEMENTS IN THE MIX

The Joule lobby

40 | AUSTIN WOMAN | DECEMBER 2018

The Joule’s mosaic hallway

Photo courtesy of C2 Photos courtesy ofPhotography.

The Joule.

As if The Joule’s art collection weren’t enough to behold, throughout the hotel exist 73 stunning mosaics by artist Millard Sheets salvaged from the historic midcentury Mercantile building that was demolished in 2006. Comprised of Italian-made colored

glass tiles, many of which are platinum or 24-karat gold beneath the glass, the mosaics represent fire, water, earth and air. The grand and lavish aesthetic of the mosaics is an unexpected and somehow perfect complement to the modernity of the contemporary collection.

FASHION CURATION

Forty Five Ten photo by Max Burkhalter. Tuna crudo photo courtesy of Mirador. Mirador dining room photo by Carrin Welch.

Forty Five Ten

Those who prefer their art to be wearable can get their own better-than-a-museum experience across the street from The Joule at Forty Five Ten, a 38,000-square-foot, four-story building featuring cutting-edge pieces from emerging designers, as well as the most unconventional clothing and accessories for both men and women from designers such as Alexander McQueen and Rick Owens.

Jewelry, beauty products, shoes and spectacular home goods are scattered throughout the space, each item more unique than the next.

The crowning glory of Forty Five Ten is the top floor: a stunning cocktail lounge and restaurant called Mirador.

Flanked by floor-to-ceiling windows, the airy dining room is bathed in natural light and enormous, bold art prints line the walls. The menu features unique and artfully presented dishes such as whipped-ricotta toast with marinated fruit and pistachios, and tuna crudo with ginger, marinated gooseberries and lime. In keeping with the theme, the offerings here feel like a collection as thoughtfully planned as the clothing featured on floors below. The service at Mirador is impeccable without being stuffy, and the attention to detail—right down to the minimalist utensils— makes for an elevated dining experience.

LESS THAN A STONE’S THROW The idea that art lovers wouldn’t have to venture even one block from their hotel to get a major art, fashion and food experience seems like a lofty one, but it’s possible and highly recommended.

Mirador’s tuna crudo

ARTISTS WHOSE WORK IS CURRENTLY REPRESENTED IN THE JOULE COLLECTION Tony Cragg Nicolas Deshayes Roger Hiorns Andy Warhol Leandro Erlich Adam Fuss Noam Rappaport Richard Phillips Wayne Gonzales Tomory Dodge William Daniels Ellsworth Kelly Barry Flanagan Arturo Herrera Frank Thiel Julian Stanczak Andrew Kuo Dan Rees

The dining room at Mirador

Callum Innes Saint Clair Cemin John Holt Smith Rainer Judd David Levinthal Los Carpinteros David Maisel Anthony Pearson Eileen Quinlan Jessica Rath Joseph Stashkevetch Haegue Yang Tony Tasset Erika Verzutti Brian Calvin Scott Reeder Millard Sheets

Tours of the collection are available upon request.

Please contact The Joule for more information.

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MIDWAY MAGIC

This holiday season, shine brighter than the lights at the State Fair of Texas.

PHOTOS BY RUDY AROCHA HAIR AND MAKEUP BY ELLIEMAE LEAL MODELED BY R'BONNEY GABRIEL STYLED BY NIKI JONES

STYLE

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THE LOOK

ON A HIGH NOTE Nike launched its iconic Air Jordans in 1984, and while they never truly went out of style, they’re having a huge resurgence in 2018.

Pair these high-tops with skinny jeans or rock them with a dress this season and you’ll exude casual-cool vibes.

Clockwise from top: Air Jordan 1 High Zip Premium in black, $150 Air Jordan 1 Retro High Premium, $145 Air Jordan 13 Retro, $190 Nike Vandal High Supreme QS, $90 Air Jordan 3 Retro SE, $180 All are available at Sneaker Politics, 221 W. Second St., 512.514.0032, sneakerpolitics.com.

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A TEXAS TRADITION Year after year, the State Fair of Texas brings people from across the globe together to celebrate all things Texan at historic Fair Park in Dallas. With a mission to promote agriculture, education and community involvement, the fair aims to provide quality entertainment in a familyfriendly environment to the 93,000 average daily fairgoers.

Featuring a world-renowned auto show, livestock exhibitions, creative arts competitions, food and rides, the fair has something for everyone. In its 132nd year, the State Fair of Texas was proud to celebrate Texas innovation. This year’s focus was on celebrating the groundbreaking inventions, technological advancements and scientific milestones that have come out of Texas. The Hall of State exhibition featured some of the best Texas inventions of all time. Big Tex Urban Farms displayed innovative ways to grow highyield produce. And countless shows and attractions showcased Texas-sized talent and creativity. bigtex.com

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Page 46: Badgley Mischka Collection strapless mikado ruffle mermaid gown, $795; Mignonne Gavigan earrings, $295.

Page 47: Milly Gina rainbow velvet shift dress, $337.

Page 48: Milly Jana metallic-velvet asymmetric wrap dress, $525; shoes, stylist’s own.

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Hygiene and the integrity of our guests’ lashes are our No. 1 priority. Just about anyone with a certification can apply lash extensions, so it’s essential that you’re going to a reliable studio. Our stylists receive extensive training through a patented process designed just for Amazing Lash Studio. It’s not enough to just pass a test; stylists are required to advance to a high level of expertise. Everyone’s eyes are different, and so are their lashes. Some are naturally thick, some are naturally curved and some are sparse. Because of that, different extensions are better suited for different people, depending on the look they want. Amazing Lash Studio makes sure the client’s extensions are compatible with the natural lashes from the beginning, and we tailor the look from there.

What can I expect before, during and after getting lash extensions?

The first appointment is the longest, so you’ll want to make sure you have time. You’ll want to discuss your goals and eyelash options before getting started. Once you and your stylist decide on the look best suited for your eye shape, the transformation begins. The stylist applies the extensions to the upper lashes while you’re lying on a table with your eyes closed. We want our guests to enjoy the process, which is why we have lash suites tailored for relaxation, complete with massage tables and ambient music. Some guests like to listen to podcasts, playlists or take a lash nap. Once the lashes are applied, you’ll need to take a little extra care of them for the first 48 hours while the adhesive cures. After the extensions are set, you can carry on with your normal routine while enjoying your new look.

How much time does this take and how much does it cost?

With so many types of lashes to choose from, you’ll want to allocate about 90 to 120 minutes for your first appointment. Refills are recommended about every two to three weeks, with visits lasting 45 to 60 minutes. Everyone has different rates, but Amazing Lash Studio has several payment options to choose from.

Are you interested in eyelash extensions?

Choose from one of four customizable eyelash

styles at Amazing Lash Studio. We have seven

studios in the Austin area.

Visit amazinglashstudio.com to find the location nearest you.

H

OME

ENTERTAINING

SPINNING A HOLIDAY YARN

Recreate Santa’s workshop at home, crafting cozy blankets for holiday gifts.

BY RHODA BRIMBERRY AND ANNA CRELIA OF LOOT FINER GOODS AND LOOT RENTALS

MATERIALS Check out your local craft store for chunky-yarn options. Typically, the bigger craft stores carry an acrylic or synthetic jumbo-weight option, which is great for those who follow a vegan lifestyle or have an allergy to wool. Skeins don’t carry much yardage, so you’ll need to sew ends together, which can be time-consuming.

Next Level: If you’d like a really high-quality wool, we suggest finding an unspun 100 percent merino wool. Check with locally owned yarn stores like Hill Country Weavers to see if they have the chunky wool or can order it for you. If you’re unsuccessful, we have found online source Wool Couture (woolcouturecompany.com) to have great options at a decent price. For a 30-inch-by-50-inch blanket, we recommend getting 4.4 pounds of wool, which comes in a beautiful ball of continuous yarn. If you know how many people are coming to the blanket-making party, we recommend ordering for all your friends and having the wool shipped to your home for them to use when they arrive to the gathering. They can pay you back later.

Photos courtesy of Loot Rentals.

December is the month of gathering with the ones you love and gifting them with more love. Why not double up your elf duties by combining gathering and gifting all in one? Hosting a holiday craft night is a great way to get together and share during a time when we often find ourselves hustling about town to beat the clock and snatch the deals. Let’s slow down. Bring it home and create those gifts with hearts and hands rather than pushes and shoves.

This month, we are opening our homes to our besties to create wool blankets for our families and friends. Just catch one of the many YouTube videos that illustrate the easy process of making these blankets and get to knitting! It takes anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours to make a lap blanket, which is the perfect gift on a chilly holiday eve. All you need is chunky yarn, two working hands and a warm heart.

50 | AUSTIN WOMAN | DECEMBER 2018

HOLIDAY GRUB Share the responsibility and make it a potluck. Everyone brings a dish they’d like to share. Potlucks are a great way to try each other’s family recipes and enjoy some holiday comfort food.

Next Level: Call on your favorite restaurant or caterer to prepare a meal you can have delivered or picked up. We are suckers for fresh tamales during the holidays. This would be a great opportunity to hit up your favorite maker, like Tamale Addiction in Manor, Texas, to provide these delicacies for your guests. Catch Tamale Addiction at the Mueller or Barton Creek farmers markets to sample the tamales and learn about catering options.

LIBATIONS Having a variety of beverages on hand is always nice to appeal to all palates. Provide your guests some wine and beer options, in addition to nonalcoholic beverages. A tasty mulled wine or hot cider warming in the crockpot is a lovely holiday touch and has the added benefit of inviting aromas wafting through your home.

Next Level: Anna perfected her famous warm margarita that is always a crowd-pleaser. Be sure to prepare it well in advance and warm it up in the crockpot. Including dried cherries and apple rings adds a holiday touch and looks beautiful inside the glass.

WARM WINTER MARGARITA Prep time: five minutes Cook time: 15 minutes Yield: four to six servings Ingredients 3 1/2 cups (28 ounces) apple juice or cider 1 to 2 sticks Mexican cinnamon 2 tablespoons granulated cane sugar (optional) 1 cup dried fruit of your choice (We used dried apple rings and tart cherries.)

3/4 cup (6 ounces) tequila blanco or reposado

Instructions 1. Combine the apple juice or cider and cinnamon sticks in a deep pot. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. Remove the cinnamon sticks.

2. A dd the sugar and tequila and stir to incorporate.

3. P our the margaritas into cups and add the dried fruit to each cup just before serving so the fruit doesn’t rehydrate too quickly.

(Note: We used a crockpot at our party, which made it much easier to prepare.

Dump all the ingredients except the dried fruit into the crockpot and heat it on high until it’s thoroughly hot and ready to serve. For added fun, serve the margaritas in crystal goblets and sugar the rim of each glass by gently wetting the rim and dipping it in a small dish of granulated cane sugar before pouring the margaritas.)

The satisfaction that is achieved after creating something with your own hands is beyond empowering. It is such a thrill to lift up your creation and see what you made. The next step is figuring out which of your loved ones will get this beautiful handmade gift.

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52 | AUSTIN WOMAN | DECEMBER 2018

Girl, Go Make It Happen Podcaster, blogger, bestselling author, motivational speaker, conference guru, media mogul and mom Rachel Hollis is inspiring women everywhere with her unapologetic confidence and authentic approach to embracing life’s chaos.

BY SHELLEY SEALE | PHOTOS BY KEITH TRIGACI HAIR AND MAKEUP BY TIFFANY TAYLOR | STYLED BY LINDSEY GRANBERRY SHOT ON LOCATION AT CENTRAL STANDARD

Rachel Hollis might be a newcomer to Austin, but the native Californian feels like she grew up in the Lone Star State’s twin.

“Bakersfield is like you picked up West Texas and dropped it in Southern California,” she laughs. “Everyone wore Wranglers and boots.”

Although Hollis was born and raised in Bakersfield, Cailf., she couldn’t wait to get out of the town.

“I loved the idea of living independently. I felt like if I could be in control of my surroundings, then I could be in control of my life,” she says.

Throughout school, she was heavily involved in theater, an activity that bolstered her and hinted at a potential future elsewhere.

“It was my favorite thing,” Hollis admits, “and the [performing-arts] industry was something I saw as a way out of Bakersfield.”

One thing anyone learns about Hollis within 10 minutes of speaking with her is this: When she has a goal, she sets her mind to it and simply makes it happen. The teenage Hollis, stuck somewhere she didn’t want to be, began researching performing-arts schools and working to graduate early from high school. She earned her diploma a year early, at 17, and promptly moved to Los Angeles to attend the American

Academy of Dramatic Arts.

“I set my sights on where I wanted to go,” Hollis recalls. “I auditioned, got a scholarship and got accepted.”

Although she enjoyed the school, after one year, she was offered an opportunity she couldn’t pass up: an internship with film-studio giant Miramax. At the time, in 2000, it was one of the most successful production companies in the country, producing movies such as The Cider House Rules, Shakespeare in Love and The Talented Mr. Ripley. When her internship ended, Hollis was extended an offer for a full-time job, and she jumped at it.

“I’m someone who learns and grows best by doing,” she says.

“I thought I could skip three years of college and go straight to the real deal. Once I was able to join the workforce, I really started to find myself.”

The goal she had been striving to reach was right in front of her, at only 18 years old.

“I turned that job at Miramax into what would become my career. I was working on events, movie premieres, press junkets with celebrities,” Hollis says. “I thought it was the most glamorous thing I’d ever seen in my whole life, coming from a small town. When you grow up doing theater and production like I did, you’re doing all this prep work for just one night, and that’s what event planning felt like to me.”

53

The Life of the Party

becoming one of the biggest influencers on the internet.

Although her Miramax experience was a good one, the next “We had these front-row seats to what we’re seeing job at another production company was regrettable. She had exploding now,” she says. “Every single day for the past 10 what she calls a “horrible boss,” and the entire experience was years, we’ve interacted with women online. We ask ourselves, demoralizing for her. So, once again, Hollis took matters into ‘What do women want? What do they need? What do they find her own hands. She decided to start her own company. entertaining?’ We really knew how to dial in to that audience “I quit my job on a Friday and started my event-planning and speak to a specific type of reader.” company, Chic Events, the following Monday,” Hollis Part of this success came from the way Rachel Hollis herself remembers. “I thought, ‘I’m just going to start my own thing and wrote and connected with her readers. By then, she was a mother, see what I can do.’ ” and the challenges of juggling a high-pressure business with By this time, 2005, the 21-year-old was newly married to parenthood caused her to seek professional counseling to deal her husband, Dave Hollis, a Disney executive she met while at with her increasing anxiety. She was candid about her personal Miramax. Rachel Hollis had a simple goal with her new venture: struggles, and it resonated with the women reading her words. replace the $38,000 salary she had been earning. She started “The reaction was incredible. out coordinating small events People were so interested in for people, including weddings “I was on a journey to become a better she says. “Someone was and parties, on a nonexistent wife, mother and woman for myself—and that,” speaking authentically and marketing and advertising I took the audience along for the ride.” sharing their experiences in a budget. But she felt if she worked real way, and it struck a chord.

— Rachel Hollis hard and did a great job, people People really related. I was on a would recommend her and word would spread. journey to become a better wife, mother and woman for myself— That is exactly what happened. Within a few years, Chic and I took the audience along for the ride.”

Events had become one of the largest personal event-planning It was that writing, and her readers’ reactions, that led companies in the Los Angeles area. Rachel Hollis, however, had Rachel Hollis’ company to become the titan it is today. As a been nearly working herself into the ground to accomplish that. businessperson, she is someone who is constantly evolving and “I was doing all these huge celebrity parties and working adapting, both to the marketplace and her own needs and goals. really hard, but I was miserable,” she says. “The challenge of Her new mission for the company became to equip her readers building and scaling a small business was exciting and I loved with the tools to make positive, lasting change, to help them the challenge, but I started to feel stressed out with it by the end become better versions of themselves, whatever that might mean. of 2007. I was super proud of what I had built, but I was killing myself to make it happen.”

Cultivating the Chic Life As an outlet for herself personally, and as a way to market her services, Rachel Hollis began taking advantage of a relatively new model in 2008: blogging. She started a blog called My Chic Life, writing about event planning and aspects of her daily life, everything from fashion and style and what she made for dinner to her struggle with anxiety. One day, she opened an email from a company offering her payment for a sponsored post, and an idea clicked in her mind.

“I realized there was a way to monetize this blog,” Rachel Hollis says. “There was a business there, and I just had to figure it out.”

If she could do that, she could move away from the stress of event planning and into her new love, blogging.

“If I could be successful at doing this thing I liked better,” she says, “I wanted to take that chance.”

Rachel Hollis became focused on growing the blog. It took several years to build into something financially viable, during which time it morphed into thechicsite.com. As the site’s traffic grew into the thousands and then the hundreds of thousands and then the millions, more advertisers and sponsors came knocking on her virtual door. Other clients looked to her to create white-label content for them (basically ghostwriting for their own websites and brands), and Rachel Hollis began hiring staff writers for the increasingly lucrative business, which operated under her company, Chic Media. Although the term didn’t really exist at the time, Rachel Hollis was quickly 54 | AUSTIN WOMAN | DECEMBER 2018

The Rise to Motivational Maven

By early 2017, Rachel Hollis made the decision to stop employing influencer marketing, sponsored posts and advertising, and instead, commit fully to her authentic writing and relationship with readers.

“That was a big leap for us because that was how we made money, and we didn’t even know if there was a way to make money in the arena we were going into,” she says. “We weren’t really sure how we were going to do it; we just knew we had to.”

As someone who loved personal-growth tools and motivational speakers like Les Brown and Tony Robbins, Rachel Hollis had one major question about the field: Why didn’t she ever see any women on those stages?

“I thought, ‘Can someone please tell me what this looks like, becoming a better version of you when you also have three children to go home to and take care of?’ Surely there were many women who would love to hear this from another woman,” she says.

Chic Media began hosting events such as two-day personalgrowth conferences full of loving encouragement and additional health and wellness components. She called these events Rise, with herself and other women featured as the speakers—and the first one took place in Austin in June 2017. Rachel Hollis calls it her aha moment.

“It was a live personal-development conference with 250 women in attendance,” she says. “You saw only women onstage, and there was something in the air. If you were in that room, you felt it; you just knew. It felt like this was the future, and we were just going to walk in faith in that direction.”

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ATXWOMAN.COM |  55

LIFE TIPS FROM RACHEL HOLLIS Practicing self-care with a busy lifestyle “I try and take care of my body the way an athlete would. I workout daily, drink water like it’s my job and eat healthy.

But, dang it, sometimes you just need some queso! I try really hard, though, to take care of myself for both my work performance and for my family.

It’s important for me to succeed in the business sector, but also to come home and play with my daughter and go see my son’s baseball games.”

56 | AUSTIN WOMAN | DECEMBER 2018

Finding time to fit it all in “I get a lot of questions from creative writers or entrepreneurs who say they don’t have time. I never have the luxury of time either. Truthfully, I just get it in where I can.

Sometimes that’s 20-minute increments of writing or time to myself. It’s a gift when I can have a whole hour. If it was a matter of waiting until I had the time, I would never be where I am right now. I don’t know any other way to do all these things simultaneously. There’s also a team of people who are counting on me to perform well and take care of them. It’s their families too. I take that really seriously. There are no excuses here. I just do what I’ve got to do.”

Rachel Hollis also began work on a book chronicling her self-improvement journey, waking at 5 in the morning to write for two hours before her children rose at 7 a.m. Her husband, Dave Hollis, left his job of 17 years at Disney to take over as CEO of the couple’s company, while Rachel Hollis took the role of chief creative officer. Chic Media was rebranded as The Hollis Company, with the belief that everyone can benefit from a personal-growth mindset and tools.

“It was impossible to manage the team, be onstage and write the book,” Rachel Hollis says. “We wanted to know what it would be like to work together and decided to just jump for it.

Dave really helped bring the vision to life.”

We are really excited to be part of this town and call it home.”

The couple began co-hosting a podcast series called Rise Together, and established The Hollis Foundation as the philanthropic arm of the enterprise. Rachel Hollis and Dave Hollis are both on the council of Austin Angels, a local nonprofit that offers support and mentorship to children in the foster-care system and their caretakers. As the parents of four children, including an adopted daughter, and foster parents themselves, the Hollises have a special place in their hearts for the needs of children.

Susan Ramirez, CEO of Austin Angels, says Rachel Hollis is passionate about empowering women and children who come from hard places.

“She has devoted her life to equipping and giving women tools to reach their fullest potential,” Ramirez says. “Rachel has made Part of this change, the couple knew, included moving out of Los a point to carve out time in her busy schedule to make sure that Angeles. They began looking at their favorite cities, including Austin Angels has the resources it needs to continue to reach Austin, the town where the new concept had all begun. By fall children and expand nationally. In fact, this year, she has helped 2017, the book manuscript was at the publisher awaiting an early to raise over $50,000, allowing us to reach more children than 2018 release, and Rachel Hollis felt like she was on the precipice ever before.” of something really big.

Ramirez has been featured on the Rise podcast and was a “I didn’t know what was about to happen,” she says, “but I had speaker at the 2018 Rise Conference, which more than tripled a sense we were onto something. attendance to include 800-plus I didn’t know how to monetize women. These appearances have “I thought, ‘I’m just going to start my it or scale it or grow, but I knew enabled Austin Angels to connect there was something there.” own thing and see what I can do.’ ” with more than 200 people who are Girl, Wash Your Face: Stop — Rachel Hollis interested in establishing an Angels Believing the Lies About Who You chapter in their own cities, and to raise enough money to cover a Are So You Can Become Who You Were Meant to Be was published case manager’s salary.

Feb. 6, 2018. Initial organic growth came slowly but steadily as the “It is such a big deal for Rachel to lend her name to Austin book grew more popular within a few weeks. Then, Rachel Hollis and National Angels because she does not lend her name unless says, it took off like wildfire. Within six months, the book had sold she believes in it wholeheartedly,” Ramirez says. “When you are 1.6 million copies and was a No. 1 New York Times best-seller. an influencer at this level, you get asked to promote stuff every “What’s amazing to behold is how much people wrap in single day, and Rachel does not. She only promotes what she community around this book,” she says. “It’s been so cool to believes in, and that is why it is so special for her to promote us.” watch the community of women rally around something that Ramirez adds that a big part of Rachel Hollis’ success is her they love and push it out to the world.” relatability.

Dave Hollis echoes that sentiment, noting the satisfaction in “She is unapologetically herself and gives all of herself to the doing work that feels like a calling, and doing it with his best world,” Ramirez says. “I think Austin women are looking for a friend. pillar in the community to look up to, and she is just that.”

“We don’t tire of hanging out every day,” he says. “We are With 18 employees, a brand-new office that they own and equipping people with the tools to make lasting life change. We a new book (Girl, Stop Apologizing: A Shame-Free Plan for leverage each other’s strengths in a way that maximizes the Embracing and Achieving Your Goals) publishing in early 2019, business and helps us get to that mission faster.”

Rachel Hollis says 2019 is going to be an epic year. The Rise The Hollis Company and the Hollis family make their home Conference, scheduled for June 13 through 15 in Minneapolis, in Austin now—a change the couple says they couldn’t be sold out all of its 3,500 seats within 27 minutes, so Rachel Hollis happier about. is planning to add a second event to meet the demand.

“It’s been such a gift to be here, to get outside of LA and slow “Everything is so divisive right now,” she says. “It feels like no one’s down, to be in a place where everyone is so nice,” Rachel Hollis says. “Austin is a community of kindness, and it’s so refreshing. getting along, but this feels like something that brings us together.”

A Community of Kindness

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ATXWOMAN.COM | 57

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By providing for the area’s youth, senior and disabled populations in need, CASA of Travis County, Family Eldercare and Junior League of Austin strive to ensure every Austinite has a happy holiday.

BY RACHEL RASCOE | PHOTOS BY ANNIE RAY

In addition to choosing gifts for friends and family, December can provide the perfect time to fulfill holiday wishes for the greater Austin community. Through charitable events this month, Court Appointed Special Advocates of Travis County, Family Eldercare and Junior League of Austin respectively serve children who

have been abused or neglected, elderly and disabled individuals, and underprivileged youth. Austin Woman spoke to the women helping run these annually expanding philanthropic programs.

Here, they share more about the three organizations’ history and how to help out this holiday season.

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CASA OF TRAVIS COUNTY

Each year, those involved with CASA of Travis County watch the latest kid-centric gift craze pass through their office. Director of Communications Callie Langford recalls previous occasions of Frozen, Batman and Peppa Pig toy mania. This year, requests for Moana-inspired gifts are flooding in.

Rather than a grab bag of charity toys, CASA of Travis County’s Holiday Toy Drive selections reflect the specific gift requests of Austin children who have been abused or neglected. Launched in 1985, CASA of Travis County matches specially trained community volunteers with kids in the county’s overburdened child-welfare system. Prior to the holidays, advocates ask the more than 1,750 children served by the nonprofit to pick out their perfect present.

“It provides a sense of normalcy for kids in care,” Langford says.

“We make sure they know someone cares about them and is watching out for them over the holiday season, which can be really lonely for a kid that’s far from their family. It’s a very missionfocused toy drive.”

To fulfill wishes, Austin community members can sign up to shop for gifts throughout November. Participants are asked to commit to helping a minimum of 10 children, and this beloved volunteer option typically fills up quickly.

Into early December, CASA of Travis County also accepts $30 Target and Walmart gift cards, which account for the group’s most popular wish requests. Langford says gift cards allow children to have an empowering shopping experience, which may not typically be available to them in foster care and other difficult living situations. Extra gift cards allow the organization to fulfill needs that arise

“”

“This is one of the most empowering and impactful volunteer opportunities you’ll find.”

throughout the year, including child-care supplies like diapers and cribs.

“CASA is here for a child’s best interests,” Langford shares. “That’s all we represent. [Our volunteers] are assigned to only one case, so they really know the child or sibling group better than anyone else in the room because they’re focused on that one family.”

Langford recalls one child who requested a sombrero and Tejano music CDs for his holiday gift. She says participants often go the extra mile in shopping for personalized gifts inspired by the kids’ wish lists.

The donated gifts are delivered to children during their monthly meetings with their CASA volunteer. Each volunteer is committed to spending an average of 15 to 20 hours a month advocating for a child throughout the lifetime of that child’s court case. Last year, the nonprofit had more than 700 active volunteer advocates, 86 percent of which were women.

“This is one of the most empowering and impactful volunteer opportunities you’ll find because here in Travis County, you have an official role in the court system,” Langford adds. “We’re exposing [advocates] to systems that they would never have had access to and parts of the community they may not have been aware of before.”

Alongside in-person mentorship, CASA volunteer advocates are granted access to the child’s family, teachers, doctors, therapists and caregivers. This allows them to make informed recommendations to the judge as to what is best for the child.

The nonprofit is currently assigned to 80 percent of Child Protective Services cases in Travis County. As one of the top 10 CASA programs in the nation, the Austin organization strives to one day provide a volunteer advocate for every community child in need.

“We are pushing out very innovative practices and trying things that other counties are interested in,” says Langford of her organization’s model. “We are helping thousands of kids and making their lives better, but our volunteers are also learning so much. We’re really impressed by the level of engagement and action of volunteers here in Austin. They are truly amazing, heroic people.”

HOW TO GIVE • Donate $30 Target and Walmart gift cards by Dec. 13 for children to choose their own gifts. Drop off or mail gift cards to the CASA of Travis County offices at 7600 Chevy Chase Drive, suite 200, 78752.

• Make a monetary donation online anytime to support CASA of Travis County.

• Get more info at casatravis.org.

60 | AUSTIN WOMAN | DECEMBER 2018

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62 | AUSTIN WOMAN | DECEMBER NOVEMBER 2018 2018

FAMILY ELDERCARE

The senior population of Austin is on the rise. According to the Brookings Institution, by 2040, more than half a million adults 65 and older will live in Central Texas, making up about one-fifth the population.

With a focus on this rapidly growing demographic, local nonprofit Family Eldercare provides essential life services for elders and adults with disabilities in Central Texas. This plays out in a broad range of services, including counseling, in-home care and financial management.

“We’re experts in the journey of aging,” says Brittany Baize, director of development and communications for Family Eldercare. “We help clients maintain independence and stability wherever they are on that path. Part of what makes our model work is we’re empowering people, and they are participating in their own success.”

From nearly the beginning, Family Eldercare, which was founded in 1982, has also coordinated an annual Holiday Giving Drive to provide gifts for clients. Case managers work with clients to create wish lists, which are then distributed to volunteers throughout November. Last year, the program fulfilled about 500 wishes for both disabled and elderly Central Texans.

To help out with the holiday program, volunteers can sign up to buy a gift, purchase a gift and make the accompanying delivery or just help make deliveries throughout the Austin area. As an annual holiday tradition, local churches and businesses partner with Family Eldercare to fulfill larger client wishes. Monetary donations for the program can also be made online.

“”

Especially this time of year, aging can be a very isolated experience as you lose mobility or capacity.

“Most of our clients are living on a fixed income, and the majority of that is covering their rent and services,” Baize explains. “These are opportunities where basic needs can really bring cheer and make sure folks feel remembered around the holidays.”

The wish lists often include simple requests like slippers, socks or H-E-B gift cards. Last year, one elderly woman just wanted pickles. In some cases, sponsors have gone above and beyond, like one who purchased a bike for a young disabled client.

Baize recalls an older man in hospice who wanted to hear the music of his childhood. A creative sponsor collaborated with his case manager to supply an iPod preloaded with all the client’s favorite albums.

“Family Eldercare serves so many folks where we are their family,” Baize adds. “Especially this time of year, aging can be a very isolated experience as you lose mobility or capacity. We want to make sure all clients are feeling a sense of community and connection.”

She considers the December event a kickoff to “a year of fulfillment” for Family Eldercare clients. Many Austinites come to the nonprofit for help during a crisis, whether they have been victims of financial fraud or are unable to find housing. Once those basic needs are met, the organization continues to help with long-term planning for a stable, satisfying life.

To help sustain these services, Family Eldercare relies on year-round volunteers from the Austin community in various roles. Money monitors oversee clients’ financial transactions, and guardian advocates provide companionship through regular visits. Both programs have waiting lists of clients and are in need of more volunteers.

“Central Texas has a real opportunity to be a model for what it looks like to age successfully,” Baize says. “It’s amazing to hear clients tell us that their level of stress has decreased. Folks often come to us just surviving, and to see them thriving is incredible.”

HOW TO GIVE • Sign up online to sponsor a senior or disabled individual by purchasing gifts from their wish lists.

• Volunteers are also needed to wrap, transport and deliver gifts.

• Make a monetary donation online. Every $35 fulfills a wish.

• Get more info at familyeldercare.org.

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JUNIOR LEAGUE OF AUSTIN

Thirty minutes at 30 degrees: That’s how long a winter coat needs to keep a child warm to meet the standards for Junior League of Austin’s Coats for Kids drive, an annual event hosted by the local women’s service organization. By distributing coats at no cost, the program empowers young Austinites in need to navigate the winter season safely and comfortably.

“If you’re standing, waiting for the bus, exposed to the elements, you can get sick and then you miss school,” explains Deanna Schobey, chair of the Coats for Kids program. “[A coat] becomes a tool of education beyond just an item of clothing. It’s so much bigger than that.”

Coats for Kids is the second-largest coat-distribution drive in the United States, having contributed more than 900,000 coats to children in need in the Austin community during the program’s 32year run.

The holiday event began following a lightbulb moment from the founder of Jack Brown Cleaners. The local business collects and cleans new and gently used winter coats for the program at all its locations, accepting drop-offs from early November through Dec. 6.

Dec. 8 at the Palmer Events Center, the local Junior League plans to give out about 30,000 coats to the children of Central Texas. At the distribution-day event, volunteers greet families and verify their economic needs. Families are then invited to peruse the spanning selection of colorful coats to suit every youth’s style and size.

“We rack it up like a store,” Schobey says. “The kid is getting to try on coats and choose, which is so important.

“”

I want to make everyone feel like they’re empowered and for no one to feel like they’re less than.

I want to make everyone feel like they’re empowered and for no one to feel like they’re less than.”

To help gather the winter essentials, Austinites can host coat drives throughout November among their friends, schools or offices. Coats for Kids partners with local TV affiliate KVUE, as well as local radio station KVET-FM, which announces coat-drive-competition winners live in early December. In addition to dropping off coats, monetary donations can be made online to support the purchase of new garments.

Junior League of Austin depends on thousands of local volunteers to help sort coats and set up ahead of the event, including those who volunteer during the youth sorting night Dec. 4. Volunteers are also needed on distribution day, including bilingual helpers.

“If a coat costs $30 and you have more than one child, that can eat into your electricity and food bills,” Schobey explains. “This is something we can tangibly do and help.”

After choosing their coats, families enter the conjoining Warm Bodies and Healthy Hearts Community Fair. There, more than 25 local nonprofits and agencies offer everything from flu shots and dental screenings to bike helmets and Austin Public Library cards. Last year, about 50 kids left with brand-new prescription glasses.

To reach Austinites who don’t make it to the central event, Junior League of Austin launched a satellite coatdistribution hub in the Del Valle Independent School District. Another location at Guerrero Thompson Elementary School allows the organization to serve North Austin-area students. After connecting with schools through the Coats for Kids program, the philanthropic group has also developed programs to provide shoes and weekend meals to area elementary students.

“We like to say we’re work gloves not white gloves,” adds Schobey of her Austin chapter, which is the fifth-largest Junior League. “I’ve found all of these really capable and intelligent women who are just driven to make a difference for Austin’s most vulnerable populations.”

HOW TO GIVE • Drop off a new or gently used warm winter coat at any Jack Brown Cleaners location through Dec. 6.

• Make a monetary donation online. Every $20 supports a new coat.

• Register online to volunteer with Coats for Kids at the Palmer Events Center. Sorting week runs Dec. 4 through 7, and distribution day is Dec. 8.

• Get more info at jlaustin.org.

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OURMET

RECIPE REVEAL

TALKING TURKEY

Cozy up with Chef Yesica Arredondo’s hearty turkey pot pie.

BY CHANTAL RICE

As Chef Yesica Arredondo can attest, it’s always a good time for pie—particularly if you dutifully packed your freezer with leftover Thanksgiving turkey and are pondering the best December use for the tasty gobbler. With more than 15 years of culinary experience, a multicultural background and a dedication to promoting Texas ingredients, Arredondo, the chef de cuisine at Cannon + Belle at Hilton Austin, cooked up a flavor-forward recipe that will make for the ultimate comfort-food meal this holiday season.

Photo by Carlos Benavides of CityView Productions Inc.

“This is one of my favorite holiday dishes to make the day after Thanksgiving because I always end up with so much leftover turkey,” Arredondo says. “It’s perfect for the season and weather; it’s hearty, homey and very comforting. I’m a huge fan of chicken pot pie, so I always look forward to Thanksgiving so I have an excuse to make this twist on the classic recipe. My family always enjoys it because they say it’s an upscale version, with the pearl onions, mushrooms and baby carrots.”

66 | AUSTIN WOMAN | DECEMBER DECEMBER 2018 2018

TURKEY POT PIE Serves four Ingredients 2 tablespoons butter 1 cup pearl onions, frozen or fresh 1 cup baby mushrooms, quartered 2 stalks celery, diced 4 baby carrots, halved lengthwise 4 tablespoons flour 2 cups chicken or turkey stock 2 cups heavy cream 8 baby potatoes or fingerling potatoes, halved 2 cups turkey, shredded 2 tablespoons mixed herbs (chives, parsley, thyme) 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed 1 frozen pie crust, thawed 1 egg, lightly beaten Directions 1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

2. M elt the butter in a medium-sized saucepan and cook the onions until they’re tender.

(Chef’s note: Caramelize the onions to add even more flavor.)

3. S tir in the celery and carrots. Cook them for two minutes or until they’re caramelized.

4. S tir in the flour and cook for two minutes.

5. Add the chicken (or turkey) stock and heavy cream, and bring the mixture to a simmer.

6. A dd the potatoes and simmer until they’re tender and the broth has thickened.

7. Stir in the turkey meat, herbs and peas.

8. P our the mixture into a 2.5-quart ovensafe casserole dish.

9. Top the dish with the thawed pie crust. Dust a little flour on top if it’s needed and brush it with egg.

10. Bake the pot pie for 30 minutes or until the crust is golden.

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OURMET

FOOD NEWS

FOXY LADY

The owners of Cedar Door open inspired Italian eatery La Volpe in downtown Austin.

BY CHANTAL RICE

specialties like blue-crab risotto, lasagna Bolognese, rack of lamb and grilled shrimp served atop a bed of perfectly garlic-forward linguini. Even the small plates—particularly the charred okra, the fried baby artichoke with crema, the delicate scallop crudo and the graham-cracker-crusted fried calamari—speak volumes in their discernable flavor. And throughout the menu, from the cheese and charcuterie boards to the fresh salads, rib-eye steak, grilled meats and bright vegetable sides, even down to the olive oil served with the house-made focaccia bread, La Volpe strives to feature locally sourced ingredients from some of Central Texas’ most prized food vendors.

La Volpe, Italian for “the fox,” is full of sly and subtle surprises.

“Partnering with local farmers and purveyors was an easy and Smartly styled by Jennifer Long, a film and set designer by trade, apparent choice on many levels,” Heather Potts La Volpe radiates the kind of elegant says. “Working with small farmers promotes sophistication expected of a shiny new overall well-being for both the community “Working with small farmers downtown restaurant, but also includes and the environment…[and] allows us to promotes overall well-being cheery, lighthearted elements that enhance incorporate the freshest ingredients as part the overall delightfulness of the space. From of our restaurant recipes.” for both the community the cozy dining nooks and plush bar-table In addition to the dazzling happy-hour, and the environment.” seating to the lush outdoor courtyard, exposed dinner and dessert menus (Pastry Chef Amanda brick and beams, and strategically placed Neber’s sweet-tea tiramisu is a definite mustcurated vintage curios, La Volpe beams with cosmopolitan charm. try dish.), La Volpe’s beverage menu, developed by bar manager “I loved the idea of breaking from the traditional rules of interior Kristen Kleypas (one of many women helming the restaurant) is design and creating something unexpected and playful like a movie particularly special. After months of research and experimentation, set,” Heather Potts says, noting even the lighting “emulates the face Kleypas created an assortment of herbaceous craft cocktails that pair of a fox, which is a clever, subliminal touch to the design.” superbly with Eason’s dishes.

Also surprising are La Volpe’s food and beverage menus. Inspired And speaking of pairing, La Volpe offers one of the most unique wineby his upbringing in the Carolinas, Executive Chef Will Eason infuses pairing menus in town. Abandon any ideas of conventional wine-pairing the flavors of his Southern background into traditional Italian dishes, stereotypes. Here, the wine, which does indeed complement the food creating a unique and winning menu that shines with marvelous offerings, is paired with other wine. From delicate whites to full-bodied

68 | AUSTIN WOMAN | DECEMBER 2018

Left and bottom right photos by James Bruce. Top right photo courtesy of The Velox Standard.

A sultry Italian fox has settled into a cozy den downtown.

But don’t let her Southern European flair fool you; she’s a local to the core. In a cunning move that may have surprised longtime lovers of decades-old happy-hour hot spot Cedar Door Patio Bar and Grill, Owners Heather and Steve Potts opened an upscale yet welcoming Italian eatery right next door, in a coveted Central Business District space near Second and Brazos streets that was previously the bar and grill’s parking lot.

reds, the wine-pairing menu, which Heather Potts notes has been a huge hit with La Volpe guests, features eight different pairs of Texas wines coupled with their Italian varietal counterparts, allowing diners to sample the differences and similarities, and each wine’s distinctive synergy with the food.

Whether it’s for an after-work happy hour, a specialoccasion dinner or a post-show glass of wine with dessert, La Volpe offers a new take on the classic Italian restaurant in Austin, one that (if the long-standing success of its sister bar and grill is any indication) is here to stay.

“While Austin has its fair share of Italian-inspired eateries, La Volpe makes a real effort to stay true to its roots of being local. The restaurant is intimate and cozy, with a strong focus on the guest experience,” Heather Potts says. “Cedar Door is beloved for being Austin’s neighborhood spot. We hope to create the same endearments for La Volpe, where people feel welcomed by staff hospitality, enjoying locally curated dishes and craft beverages that are delightful and unexpected.”

We need your support to create joy and magic for the families at SAFE this holiday! You can sponsor a family, host a drive, volunteer to organize gifts, and so much more.

safeaustin.org/holidays

Confidential, 24-hour SAFEline Call: 512.267.SAFE (7233) Text: 737.888.7233 Chat: safeaustin.org/chat

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Photos courtesy of The Velox Standard.

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OURMET

SEE HER WORK

CHRISTMAS-COOKIE QUEEN

This holiday season, Mindy Sepeti of Mindy’s Bakeshop is proving delicious things come in small packages.

BY COURTNEY RUNN

“I’ve learned that inspiration is literally everywhere. Kenny designed our most popular Valentine’s Day cookie (a black heart with the words “Executive Producer Dick Wolf”) while sitting on the couch, watching [Law & Order] SVU!”

Photos courtesy of Mindy’s Bakeshop.

From cookies featuring rapper Drake’s face to elaborate succulents made of icing, Mindy Sepeti’s cookies are a hit on Instagram and in real life. Sepeti discovered her passion for baking at the University of Texas, where she regularly skipped classes to bake for her friends. She went on to attend Le Cordon Bleu to study pastry, and her husband, Ken Sepeti, also attended pastry school so they could one day own a bakery together. They baked as a side business until 2015, when they committed to Mindy’s Bakeshop full time. Besides their detailed cookies, the couple also bakes cakes, sells cookiedecorating kits and hosts cookie-decorating workshops.

Follow them on Instagram @mindysbakeshop, but be prepared to get some serious sugar cravings.

70 | AUSTIN WOMAN | DECEMBER 2018

“Downtime is a hard thing to find as small-business owners, but we’ve discovered that it’s absolutely crucial to producing our best work.”

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GO GREEN THIS HOLIDAY SEASON Texas Disposal Systems is keeping Central Texas clean by recycling Christmas trees free of charge beginning Dec. 26.

recycling free of charge throughout Austin and San Most likely, recycling is not on the top of your mind Antonio. From Dec. 26 through Jan. 31, TDS will during the holiday season. But it should be. During accept unflocked (free of artificial snow) trees, holly, this time of year, waste generation peaks, and bubble wrap, ribbons and other décor create towering remind- pumpkins and other ornament-free living decoraers of holidays past at landfills throughout the country. tions at its Christmas-tree collection sites. TDS will provide curbside pickup for certain neighborhoods According to the Environmental Protection Agency, 23 million extra tons of waste are created between as well. So, before you throw out your tree this year, Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day. That’s close to the remember TDS is here to lend a hand.

When dropping off your compostables at the colsame amount of food waste Americans produce in an lection sites, be sure your items are free of lights, entire year. It’s time to make a change. As 80 percent ornamentation, metal and other non-living compoof holiday waste can actually be recycled, let’s learn nents, or a cleaning fee will be charged. Also, when how we can protect the planet this Christmas. bringing loads for drop-off, make sure the material is It’s refreshing to see organizations and municitied and secured, per Texas law. palities taking steps to help our THIS YEAR, GIVE So, what happens after items are environment, especially during the MOTHER NATURE dropped off at TDS’ collection sites? holiday season. Wreaths Across Once sorted, your holiday items will America Austin is focused on makbe repurposed into nutrient-rich ing its event a truly green endeavor.

The National Wreaths Across America Day ceremony mulch and compost through TDS’ composting division. The finished product will then be available for is dedicated to honoring veterans and fallen soldiers purchase at Garden-Ville stores throughout Central by placing wreaths on their graves. After the event, the wreath shipping boxes and balsam-fir wreaths are Texas.

In addition to recycling with TDS, think about sent to Texas Disposal Systems’ facility to be recycled ways to reduce your carbon footprint and waste proand composted. duction at home. When wrapping holiday gifts, use This year, give Mother Nature a gift. Instead of recycled paper, save and reuse holiday bows and try throwing out your recyclable holiday decorations, making your own packing materials. If we all reused turn to Texas Disposal Systems. TDS is one of just two feet of ribbon, the miles of ribbon saved the largest independently owned waste-collection, would be enough to wrap a bow around the planet. processing and disposal companies in the nation and has been at the forefront of recycling and composting If every family wrapped three presents in recycled or reused materials, enough material would be saved to education for more than 40 years, teaching Central cover 45,000 football fields! There are many ways to Texans how they can better help the environment. do your part this holiday season. Don’t be a Grinch.

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For more information and a list of Christmas-tree collection sites, visit texasdisposal.com/christmas-tree-recycling.

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ELLNESS

WAITING ROOM

GUT BUSTER

Dr. Shelly Sethi shares her tips for beating the bloat that comes with holiday overeating.

BY SHELBY WOODS The holidays are a time for bonding with family, decompressing from the stress of the year and, of course, indulging in all the rich and lavish seasonal foods. During the holidays, we break out our best recipes in order to share a memorable meal with the people we love. Unfortunately, all those decadent treats that come with the holidays can lead to some serious bloating, overeating and weight gain. Dr. Shelly Sethi, a family physician and an expert in digestive health, offers up a few tips for how to avoid that gut-busting feeling that often comes with holiday eating.

PREPARATION IS KEY

Eating before attending holiday parties is a good way to prevent overindulgence. In order to feel fuller, Sethi suggests choosing foods that contain healthy fats and proteins.

“These foods will also prevent hormonal spikes in insulin and blood sugar that leave you feeling excessively hungry,” Sethi says, noting it’s also important to remember such holiday events should be focused on connecting with family and friends, and that the food, while tempting, is only one aspect of why we get together during the holiday season.

CONSUME FOOD AND BEVERAGES MINDFULLY

“When we eat while talking, we tend to eat more,” Sethi says.

And when we aren’t engaging with our food, it results in mindless eating. In order to become more mindful of our noshing habits, Sethi suggests putting the fork down on the plate in between bites.

“It almost becomes a thought process,” she says.

She also advises that those who want to avoid overeating should be cautious of excessive drinking. Alcohol is high in calories and disrupts sleep, which can lead to weight gain.

Instead of indulging in all the holiday cocktails, Sethi recommends sipping sparkling water with lemon or lime in between alcoholic drinks to limit the total amount you end up consuming.

Bonus: Drinking more water helps stave off the dehydration that often comes along with drinking alcoholic beverages.

AVOID THE SCARCITY MINDSET

Sethi says it’s important to remind yourself that even though the holidays occur but once a year, they will come again. Oftentimes, people will overindulge in holiday foods because they believe if they do not consume all their favorites now, they may lose that opportunity.

“If you are looking forward to a special recipe,” Sethi says, “you can tell yourself that you’ll do it again in the upcoming months.”

If you do end up consuming a little too much, fear not. There are some actions you can take to prevent that bloated feeling that comes with overeating.

“The most important thing you can do,” Sethi says, “is to get your body back into a state of hormonal balance. The easiest way to achieve that balance is allowing the liver to rest for 13 hours or more.”

Sethi suggests intermittent fasting as the best way to rest. Avoid consuming anything other than water and herbal teas for the time you choose to fast. Fasting will put your body into a state of detox, allowing it to begin rebalancing some of the spikes in your blood sugar. After the fast, focus on clean eating for the next few days.

74 | AUSTIN WOMAN | DECEMBER 2018

Headshot courtesy of Dr. Shelly Sethi.

ALL IS NOT LOST IF YOU DO OVEREAT

Sponsored Content

HOW TO FEEL MORE CONFIDENT WALKING INTO A CAR DEALERSHIP

BY CHELSEA BANCROFT

Often, women are hesitant to go through the car-buying process by themselves. I’ve personally had many friends say they want to buy a new car but are going to wait to go with their dad, boyfriend, husband, etc. While there is nothing wrong with going with a man to buy a car, I want women to feel more confident going into a dealership and buying a car themselves. Following are a few tips to help you feel more comfortable.

Know what you want.

Know your limits and stick to them.

Before even stepping foot in a dealership, take some time to figure out exactly what you are looking for in a vehicle. Decide what your priorities are and know what you will and won’t compromise on. Personally, I know a backup camera is a must for me, but I don’t really care about four-wheel drive. For you, it could be having Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, which Mazdas do have now, by the way. Write down your must-have features and take the list with you to the dealership.

Know your financial limits before you even start looking at a vehicle—and stick to them. An extra $1,000 may not seem like a big deal at the time, but depending on your financing, that can add quite a bit more to the overall cost of your vehicle, not to mention raise your monthly payments.

Get a quote.

Get an idea of what the vehicle you’re interested in costs by getting online quotes from several different websites and printing them out to bring with you to the dealership. Visit the manufacturer’s website to see what incentives that brand is offering. The more you know, the better!

Don’t be afraid to walk out.

If at any point you are uncomfortable with how the negotiation is going, do not be afraid to walk away. Whether it’s the person you’re dealing with or that you’re just not completely sold on the car, trust your gut and walk away if you’re not ready to sign on the dotted line.

Are you still feeling uneasy? Check out some of my past Austin Woman articles for more advice and info about the car-buying process. Or email me directly. I would be more than happy to talk it through with you.

Research the dealership.

Check out the dealer’s website and social-media presence to see if they actively support our community. Roger Beasley Imports has been a longtime supporter of Austin Woman (in addition to many charitable organizations in Austin), and even if I didn’t work for them, I’d be more inclined to shop there because I know the business supports women. Read online reviews on several different platforms (Google, Facebook, cars.com, etc.) and learn what the majority of people are saying about their experience.

See if any salesperson is named in the reviews as being great to work with and ask for that salesperson specifically when you visit the dealership.

Exude confidence.

Confident body language not only boosts your self-esteem, but it also makes others take you more seriously. Wear something you feel good or powerful in. Stand up straight, keep your chin up, make eye contact and walk in like you know exactly what you’re doing, even if you don’t. Fake it till you make it, right?

Learn the lingo.

There are a lot of complicated terms when it comes to buying a car, especially in regard to financing. Knowing what to expect beforehand is a big confidence booster. A simple Google search of “auto terms defined” will pull up tons of articles that explain every term you might encounter. If you’re worried there are too many terms to remember, print out the list or save it on your phone. There is no shame in being prepared.

Photo by Matthew Littlefield.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

If you still don’t understand a certain fee or term, ask the dealership salesperson who’s helping you to explain it to you. If you want to know the key difference between one trim level and another, ask away! It’s the salesperson’s job to help you make an informed decision when buying a car. Remember, there is no such thing as a dumb question.

Don’t be afraid to take a longer test-drive.

Also consider test-driving multiple cars, for that matter. Speaking for myself, I don’t like to inconvenience people. Having a salesperson take you out on long or multiple test-drives may seem like a hassle, but that’s the salesperson’s job, and you’re making a big purchase, so it’s worth it. When test-driving, be sure to drive on normal city roads, highways, up hills, etc., to get a true feel of what it would be like to drive that car every day.

Chelsea Bancroft is the strategic-partnerships and social-media manager at Roger Beasley Mazda and a blogger at onechelofanadventure.com.

W

ELLNESS

HER ROUTINE

EN POINTE

Discipline and dedication keep Ballet Austin’s Aara Krumpe twirling on her toes.

BY GRETCHEN M. SANDERS

Since then, in a career spanning 20 years, Krumpe has performed the title roles in “Romeo and Juliet,” “The Taming of the Shrew,” “The Firebird,” “Giselle,” “Belle Redux” and “The Sleeping Beauty.”

She has danced principal roles in “The Magic Flute,” “Cinderella,” “Swan Lake” and “Hamlet,” among other productions by Artistic Director Stephen Mills.

“I’ve been lucky,” says Krumpe, who started dancing at age 5 and went en pointe at age 9. “You spend so much time in your childhood trying to get here.”

This month, Krumpe will dazzle audiences at The Long Center as the Sugar Plum Fairy in “The Nutcracker.” She’s danced the part every holiday season since 2005. At 38, this will be her last year. Krumpe plans to retire from Ballet Austin in May. “It’s the right time for me and my body,” she says. “I don’t want an injury to force me to leave. I don’t want to see myself decline onstage. I want to go out on top.”

Here’s how this professional ballerina keeps her grands jetés, pirouettes and pliés looking sharp year after year.

76 | AUSTIN WOMAN | DECEMBER 2018

Photo by Anne Marie Bloodgood.

Aara Krumpe was 19 years old when she joined Ballet Austin as an apprentice dancer in 1999. Two years later, the Corpus Christi, Texas, native became a company ballerina.

THE A.M.: “I wake up at 6:15 a.m. and make coffee. Nothing will run well if I don’t! After I shower and take my boys to school, I do a 15-minute Pilates routine on a machine that I have at home.

It gets my muscles ready for my workday.”

THE WORKOUT: “Ballet Austin company dancers work from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Monday through Friday for 34 weeks a year. We begin every morning with a 90-minute ballet class. We spend the first 40 minutes at the barre, refining our technique, and then we put on our pointe shoes. The class helps us hone the basics, boost our stamina and prepare for afternoon rehearsal. These days, I don’t do any cross-training because I get so much cardio throughout the day. At my age, it’s more important to stretch and hydrate for the following day so I can give 100 percent.”

THE DIET: “I eat oatmeal every morning. It sustains my energy. If I need a snack during our morning break, then I’ll have half of a granola bar. We take a lunch break at 1 p.m., and I bring my own. I usually eat oatmeal again! I can’t have a lot of food in my stomach when we’re dancing intensely. For dinner, I try to eat more nutrient-dense foods. I’m not looking for volume. I want a lot of fuel in a small package; a salad and a good protein. I often readjust my fuel needs depending on my schedule and how much I’m dancing. Sometimes I’ll add some almonds during the day.

I must stay in peak physical condition, but I don’t like to limit myself with food. Ballet Austin values how you move more than how you look. On weekends, I’ll enjoy a glass of wine or beer. I rehydrate at night.”

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THE P.M.: “After I take my kids to soccer and after all the homework, I’m done parenting. At 8:30 p.m., it’s time to relax. I usually get on the living-room floor and stretch or do splits while I watch TV. I’ve never owned a coffee table. My husband jokes that maybe I’ll sit on the couch with him once I retire. He’s my biggest fan.”

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THE MINDSET: “Do your best every day. Try to be better than you were the day before. I can get behind excellence.”

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THE MOTIVATION: “I love what I do. Dancing is strenuous and regimented and it requires discipline. It makes me appreciate the human body.”

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THE GEAR: “As a company dancer, I get 35 pairs of pointe shoes a year. I wear Capezios, which cost about $120 per pair. They’re made of glue and canvas with an outer layer of satin, and I will go through two pairs a week during ‘The Nutcracker’ season. We buy our own tights and leotards. I prefer pink tights with a dark leotard; I just feel more like a ballet dancer in pink. I don’t wear a skirt so that I can see the architecture of my muscles when I dance. I also use a yoga block for stretching, The Stick for rolling out my calves and a TheraBand foot roller. Ballet Austin provides our tutus and costumes.”

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OINT OF VIEW

ON THE MONEY

REIN IN HOLIDAY SPENDING

Stuff your stocking with money-saving tips.

BY JENNY HOFF

3. OPT FOR SMALL AND MEANINGFUL INSTEAD OF BIG AND EXPENSIVE. One of the best things about December is In an age when anyone can get almost anything they want with the click of a button, the sense of total big gifts have kind of lost their luster and thoughtful presents are back in style. For abandon. It’s a instance, is there a quote that resonates with someone you love? Consider having time to forget the a graphic-design company like Canva put it on a beautiful background. Then get it printed and adorned in a funky frame from a thrift store. Or if you have a friend rules and indulge selling essential oils, support her business by purchasing some oils to create your in food, parties own bath salts, which you can pack in cute Mason jars and gift to friends and family. and shopping. After If that’s not in your wheelhouse, make a fun photo book with your best memories all, January is right together throughout the year. Since all of us have mostly digital photos now, a around the corner and physical book of memories is a gift most people would treasure. that’s when the no-fun resolutions come into play. The only problem is 4. USE A SAVINGS APP. that while shedding those easily earned holiday pounds can be There’s no need to sift through sale racks or go from store to store Studies show tough enough, the holiday creditto find the best deal. There are plenty of apps you can download that will let you know where you can get the best price for what card bills are a little more difficult the average you’re looking for or get you cash back for every purchase. Honey to make disappear. Studies show the average American accrues American accrues is a great app that automatically applies coupon codes when you purchase something from an online retailer. If you plan to host almost $1,000 in credit-card debt some parties and dinners this month, check out Ibotta, an app that almost $1,000 during the holiday season. If your offers cash back on your grocery purchases. credit card has an interest rate of in credit-card 15 percent and you make just the 5. SET LIMITS AND MAKE LISTS. minimum payments of $25 per debt during the Check in with friends and family, and consider agreeing to a giftmonth, it will take you 10 years to spending limit. And while you’re at it, encourage everyone to make pay off this one holiday season, holiday season. a list of some gifts they would love within the set budget. The with an extra $400 in interest Christmas List app lets you share your list with family and friends, tacked on. Talk about dampening and people can even claim a gift so you don’t receive duplicates. Don’t worry about the holiday cheer!

So, before you start ringing in the season with the swipe of your credit card, check out these tips for celebrating without busting your budget.

taking the magic out of gift-giving. Less shopping stress for all means more time to delight in the joy of the season.

Countless studies have shown people spend more when using a credit card. And as we evolve from physical cards to mobile payments and one-click purchases, the barrier to spending completely disappears, causing most of us to end up spending much more than we intended. While sticking to cash this month could work as a solution, it’s unlikely to work in all circumstances. After all, who still shops in person? Come up with a realistic amount you’re able to spend with the money you have right now and buy a prepaid credit card for your holiday spending.

2. SIGN UP FOR A NO-INTEREST CREDIT CARD.

If you don’t have the cash on hand to support your holiday expenses but aren’t willing to sacrifice the spending, consider signing up for a card offering 12 months or more of no interest. But beware: You still have to make your minimum payments on time and once the grace period is up, a high interest rate will kick in, so make a plan to get those charged purchases paid before interest comes calling.

78 | AUSTIN WOMAN | DECEMBER 2018

Headshot courtesy of Jenny Hoff.

1. USE PREPAID CARDS.

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OINT OF VIEW

I AM AUSTIN WOMAN

CONNECTING COMMUNITY THROUGH THE ARTS The Long Center President and CEO Cory Baker shares her journey into the world of the arts, how the iconic 10-year-old institution has become a staple of Austin life and what the next decade holds.

My parents always instilled within me a love for the visual arts, but it wasn’t until junior high that I became truly interested in live theater when my father took me to the Walnut Street Theatre in Philadelphia. It wasn’t my first theatrical experience; I had seen “Cats” on a field trip and, of course, loved “The Nutcracker,” but this was the experience that impacted me most and fundamentally altered my view of live arts, sending me on the journey that ultimately would lead to The Long Center.

I anticipated going to one of the large, high-production theaters downtown where the big musicals and national tours played. Instead, we were led to a small black-box theater that probably only held about 50 people on folding chairs—far from the giant light trusses and expansive auditoriums where I had been before. This space, and my experience there, was the one that changed my view of the arts.

Until that time, I had understood that seeing shows and going to the theater was about entertainment, the spectacle of it all. But this was different and new. It was emotional, direct and slightly uncomfortable—a raw experience—and walking out, I felt as if I had bonded with this small group of strangers. I knew then that I wanted to seek out and be a part of more experiences exactly like this.

I’ll be the first to admit that I don’t gravitate to being in the spotlight. I am not one to be alone center stage or to emote in front of a hushed crowd, but that only underscores my passion for the performing arts. I can perform and participate and be a champion of these arts—as a viewer, supporter, professional in the field and now as the CEO of a world-class performing-arts center.

In college, I studied sociology and religious studies, and people often ask me how I went from getting degrees in these areas to

working in the field of arts and culture.

Despite the question marks, to me, this transition isn’t a stretch at all. At their core, each of these disciplines shares the common threads of humanity: culture, community, shared experiences and beliefs. Connecting is what this is all about, whether you’re in a 2,500seat theater, an intimate black box, a place of worship or a neighborhood coffee shop.

And now more than ever before, we have a greater need for that sense of shared experience, a non-digital space for people to come together to get out of our separate bubbles, reconnect with our neighbors and discover something new with someone new. This is what is at the core of The Long Center as well. From its inception in 1959 as a municipal auditorium, The Long Center has always been envisioned as a hub for community life, accessible to every Austinite. Our community and its needs are what inspire me, and as we end our 10th year as a performing-arts center and head into our 60th year as an iconic Austin structure, we are recommitting to that critical mission.

We’re broadening what others think the performing arts ought to be. Throughout everything we’ve learned in the past year, we’re looking to redefine The Long Center to be a true gathering place, a place to bring friends and family to see a show, enjoy a free event on the lawn and take a picture on our terrace with the best view of the city. This is our opportunity to build a community space based on our shared experiences and inspirations, physically and philosophically, inside and out.

But beyond the arts and as 2018 draws to a close, I am so excited to be at the venue whose charge is to preserve Austin culture.

Austinites love being Austinites, and we’re here for a reason. The Long Center is here too, and there is a soul to this city that we all believe in and care about maintaining. And I can’t wait to see where the next 10 years take us together.

80 | AUSTIN WOMAN | DECEMBER 2018

Photo by Suzanne Cordeiro.

This is our opportunity to build a community space based on our shared experiences and inspirations.

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