Kendall County Woman by Ben Schooley

KENDALL COUNTY

Mar/Apr 2019

WOMAN

Brokering A NEW FUTURE

CAL I REDD & J ESSI CA J OH NS ON

BAKERY · BISTRO · BOOKSTORE · BOUTIQUE · EVENT SPACE 210 N MAIN ST. · BOERNE, TEXAS · 830.331.2225 · THEDIENGERTRADINGCO.COM

Table of

CONTENTS Mar/Apr 2019

COVER: BROKERING A NEW FUTURE Sometimes it takes a long and winding path to end up in the place we’re meant to be. How two women found their way to each other to create a new real estate commission pricing structure that puts their clients first.

AM I SENSITIVE?

THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME

BALANCING CONVICTION AND CONNECTION

I BOUGHT A BLEACHER SEAT

“Healthy Food” doesn’t always mean the same thing for everybody. Here’s how your diet might actually be hurting you.

Heather Tessmer opens up new shop for her law firm close to home to provide her Kendall County neighbors with legal representation.

Five ways we lose sight of the people we love when we disagree, and how we can address them to strengthen the relationships that matter most.

A woman’s journey on faith, life, and learning to love the little things that change as we age.

TrĂŠs Bella Salon will be joining Davines and the Fruit Tree Planting Foundation (FTPF. org) for our annual Sustainable Beauty Project. This year, all funds raised will go to planting orchards in Peru.

S U S TA I N A B L E BEAUTY

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Please come by for a tour of our new salon. If you mention this ad, your name will be entered in a drawing for a chance to win a $50 Tres Bella gift certificate. We invite you to participate in other various raffle giveaways such as a year of free haircuts, product bundles and more! We are so excited about our new space and the opportunity to share our passion for our craft. MARCH/APRIL 2019

Letter

KENDALL COUNTY

WOMAN Mar/Apr 2019 | Issue 02

from the Publisher

To the wonderful women of Kendall County, Welcome to our sophomore effort of Kendall County Woman magazine. It has been so wonderful to be out around town and have so many of you stop to congratulate the team on our inaugural issue and for getting the entire concept off the ground. I knew that the magazine would be a welcome addition to our community, but it’s been so refreshing to have so many reader’s comment on everything from how the magazine looks and on what it has to say! The celebration of our local women leaders in all facets of the community...entrepreneurs, ranchers, corporate leaders, mothers, wives, daughters...is the core tenet of our magazine, and I hope that this message comes across in every single issue we do. A great case in point is this issue’s cover story featuring Cali Redd and Jessica Johnson of Solid Realty. These two are perfect examples of the women that we love to spotlight. Through the twists and turns of life, they were ultimately led to team up in new careers for both of them, and to then change the rules for the time-honored industry of real estate. As so many of us, Jessica and Cali are very involved with their own families and very busy personal schedules. But, as so many of us also know, that is usually just one part of a busy woman’s life. In Cali and Jessica’s world, they’ve managed to take a very established, “dry” profession like real estate and mix it up enough that they are having fun AND are managing to change their client’s lives for the better. That has to be the perfect result for all of us — change our lives, our world, and help others. Great result! Their “never give up” attitude has earned them the respect of their colleagues, and the appreciation of their clients I hope you also note that we’ve expanded our content for this issue and added several articles, from a great health article by the team at Annie’s Apothecary, to a very thought provoking piece by Kayleigh Woolard about our relationships and how to never lose sight of those we love. We have some information on well-known attorney Heather Tessmer’s move to Boerne, and even a great spiritual article by local realtor Jamie Amerman. We’ve been hard at work on this magazine and ensuring that it fulfills the vision of our intention. That said, it truly can flourish with your input! If you have a great story idea, drop me a note! If you know of a woman with a tremendous story to tell, or who owns a wonderful local business, or is leading a charge to a better Kendall County, let’s chat. We’re always on the lookout for new information, and we know that the best information will come from you!

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Kendall County Woman Magazine

Alexandra Rubio

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March/April jazz, swing, and Dixieland, with the energy and spirit of contemporary culture, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy reminds us that it is cool to swing!

BOERNE Boerne After 5 Mixer Sponsored by Sisterdale Dance Hall

MAR. 28 | 5 PM - 7 PM Come mix, mingle and network at the Boerne After 5 Mixer hosted by Sisterdale Dance Hall.

Diva Night

APR. 11 | 5 PM - 9 PM Grab your diva friends and head out for shopping, live music, dining and great specials.

Just Between Friends

MAR. 1 & 2 | 9 AM - 4 PM Shop infant and childrens clothing, gear, and toys as well as maternity wear for women. At Kendall County Fairgrounds.

Farmers Market at the Cibolo

SATURDAYS | 9 AM - 1 PM MAR. 2, 9, 16, 23, & 30 APR. 6, 13, 20, & 27 The Farmer’s Market is back! Shop fresh local produce, farm fresh eggs, breads, jams, jellies, local honey and Texas Hill Country arts and crafts at the historic Herff Farm at the Cibolo Nature Center in Boerne.

KENDALL COUNTY WOMAN

Boerne BierFest Second Saturday Art Beat

MAR. 9 | 4 PM - 8 PM Boerne shops and art galleries are teaming up to bring you a heart-racing fine art experience. Take a walk on the art side every second Saturday of the month from 4 8pm. Look for the flashy banners displayed throughout Boerne.

Spring Family Fun Festival

MAR. 30 | 10 AM - 1 PM Herff Farm $5/Person; $10/Family Come join in on this community event celebrating the changing seasons. Come explore the Historical Homestead, Teaching Gardens, and Farmers Market. Enjoy children’s activities, adult workshops, local food and artisans, and much more. Come see what’s growing at the Herff Farm.

Big Bad Voodoo Daddy

APR. 5 | 7:30 PM Champion High School Auditorium $20-60 Boerne Performing Arts presents a vibrant fusion of the classic American sounds of

APR. 6 | 11 AM - 7 PM The AgriCultural $30 in advance; $35 at the door Your ticket will include event entry, a commemorative sampling stein, 10 sample tickets, entertainment and fun! Additional sampling tickets will be available at the event. Proceeds will benefit local art organizations! Food vendors will also be available at this event.

Boerne Parade of Artists

APR. 13 | 10 AM - 8 PM Various Galleries FREE Boerne Professional Artists (BPA) is hosting its 23rd Annual Parade of Artists on April 13th, 2019. The ‘Parade’ is a festive event held each spring which attracts hundreds of art enthusiasts from around the country to visit various art venues in Boerne. It is a self-guided tour of local galleries, studios and “other venues” principally located along the Hill Country Mile.

Boerne Handmade Market

APR. 12-13 | 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM Cana Ballroom $25 Boerne Handmade Market is a bi-annual, two-day event boasting creative and new vendors, selling all handmade items. The vendors range from bath and body products to home decor to children’s items and even food items. They strive to bring new vendors to each market, and also bring back everyone’s favorites from past markets. The Friday event will include a craft class, dessert, drinks, live music, snacks, and giveaways! Don’t miss it! Feel free to come back on Saturday to continue shopping.

Annual Easter Egg Hunt

APR. 13 | 10:30 AM Boerne City Lake Park This free event is presented by Boerne Parks and Recreation! The festivities will begin at 10:30am and include pictures with the Easter Bunny, an inflatable obstacle course, face painting and kid crafts. Easter Egg Hunt 11:15 SHARP. 4 different age groups (3 and under, 4-6, 7-9, and 10+). Over 15,000 stuffed eggs!!! Mobile food vendors will be available at this event.

FREDERICKSBURG Indie Film Series

Movie in the Park

APR. 26 | 7:30 PM Boerne Main Plaza FREE Enjoy pre-show activities, and the movie begins at dark! Feature presentation to be announced.

COMFORT

MAR. 3 Doors: 5:15 PM | Show: 5:30 PM Fritztown Cinema Seating is first come, first served FREE The Hill Country Film Festival and Fritztown Cinema are happy to announce the continuation of the Indie Screening Series – where Fredericksburg gets to see fantastic indie films for FREE! The March screening will be a Texas Filmmaker’s Showcase – seven Texas-made short films curated by the Houston Film Commission.

Market Days at 1851 Vineyards

MAR. 9 | 12 PM - 5 PM FREE Join us for local vendors, food trucks and wine, of course! Enjoy shopping, wine and food!

Native American artifacts from Texas and the US including arrowheads, pottery, Trade Era beads, artifact cases, related books, Indian jewelry and many other collectibles. Great door prizes. Food available. At the Pioneer Pavilion in Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park.

Annual Bluebonnets, Bluegrass & BBQ at Becker Vineyards

MAR. 31 SATURDAY 11 AM - 4 PM SUNDAY 12 PM - 4 PM $16/BBQ Plate Near and dear to Texans’ hearts is the State Flower – the Texas Bluebonnet! Our annual Bluebonnets, Bluegrass and BBQ will take place on the lawn beside the winery. The Woodstreet Bloodhounds will again return to play their wonderful Bluegrass music both days from 1 to 4 pm. Guests can enjoy BBQ plates which will include brisket, sausage, potato salad, beans, bread and all the fixins.

Mardi Gras

MAR. 2 Comfort Public Library Since 2003, the Friends of the Comfort Public Library has sponsored the annual Mardi Gras party and dance, which benefits the Library. Held in the Comfort City Park on a Saturday early in the year, the very popular Mardi Gras event is a fun-filled night of music, dancing, and fellowship for the community and surrounding area.

Comfort Village Spring Antique Show

APR. 27-28 SATURDAY 10 AM - 5 PM SUNDAY 10 AM - 4 PM Comfort Park Annual event features Americana antiques, including farm tables, cupboards, quilts, rugs, baskets, pewter, and many interesting surprises. We are also happy to have qualified dealers in jewelry, china, Indian, old store collectibles, advertising and architectural and gardening pieces. The public can sit under the large food tent, eat and visit, and discuss the treasures they are going home with.

THURS. - SAT.: 11 AM - 6 PM SUNDAYS: 1 PM - 5 PM Tastings are $15 per person and typically include 5 wines. Tasting fees are waived on the purchase of 3 or more bottles per person.

KERRVILLE HILLS WINERY

Tasting fee is complimentary with purchase of 2 or more bottles. If your group of 8 or more is planning a visit, please call in advance so we can ensure we meet your needs. Live music and food truck on first and third Saturday.

Wildflower Celebration at Wildseed Farms

APR. 6-21 | 9:30 AM - 6 PM FREE A celebration of the arrival of springtime and wildflower blossoms along with great shopping, butterfly gardens, walking trails and refreshments at the country’s largest working wildflower farm. Come for the flowers, stay for the atmosphere! P. S. Don’t forget your camera!

North American Jewelry and Gift Show MAR. 30 | 8 AM - 4 PM $6/Person Children 14 and under are free Featuring a wide variety of some of the finest

24 Wasp Creek Rd. Boerne, TX 78006

Taste 6 wines - $14 Taste 4 wines – $10 Wine by the glass – $5 to $9

NEW BRAUNFELS

Hill Country Indian Artifact Show

SAINT TRYPHON FARM AND VINEYARDS

3600 Fredericksburg Rd. Kerrville, TX 78028

Spring Break at the Pioneer Museum

MAR. 11-16 | 10 AM - 5 PM $7.50/Person; $3/School age children; Kids under 5 are free Enjoy a memorable getaway with the entire family. Watch the blacksmith at the forge or make a rope. See handworkers quilting and spinning or make a “knot” doll. Visit our one-room school house and learn about country schools of the past. Share stories of the past with Red Rovers and Buffalo Soldiers. Early Texas Frontier presenters provide hands-on activities for kids ages 6 to 17. Music, storytelling, games, German Pioneer life interpretation through handwork demonstrations, doll making, cooking, German language lessons, Native American interpretation through stories, dances and handmade items.

Wine/Spirits Tastings

MAR. 8-10 New Braunfels Convention Center $5 Admission Beads, jewelry, findings, gold, silver, gemstones, handmade, vintage, estate, imported & fashion jewelry, clothing, handbags, accessories, gift items & more.

REBECCA CREEK DISTILLERY 26605 Bulverde Rd. San Antonio, TX 78260 Our Mixed Group Tour is free and offered on Thursdays from 6-10 PM, Fridays from 4-10 PM, Saturdays from 12-5 PM and Sundays from 1-5 PM. The tours go out at the top of each hour (6,7, 8 & 9 PM on Thursdays, etc.). The tour and tasting room experience lasts approximately 1 hour.

SALVADOR DOBBS 512 River Rd. Boerne, TX 78006 Join us for Ladies Night every Thursday. Enjoy $5 cosmos, martinis and margaritas, plus many other amazing and unique drinks you won’t find anywhere else! MARCH/APRIL 2019

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KENDALL COUNTY WOMAN

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| H EA LTH |

Am I

SENSITIVE? by Dr. Leigh Ann Greenberg, RPh ANNIEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S APOTHECARY

KENDALL COUNTY WOMAN

“HEALTHY FOOD” DOESN’T ALWAYS MEAN THE SAME THING FOR EVERYBODY. HERE’S HOW YOUR DIET MIGHT ACTUALLY BE HURTING YOU.

s we head into Spring, many women have once again made the New Year’s Resolution to lose weight or maybe just incorporate healthy habits like physical activity, less alcohol, more water and healthy foods. There are articles and books galore on the perfect exercise and the perfect diet. But how do you know what is truly right for you? You may see weight loss success with any type of diet that incorporates healthy food choices, but will you see improvement in mental clarity, inflammation, energy and autoimmune disorders? No matter how “healthy” a food is deemed, if your body reacts to it with an inflammatory response it is not “healthy” for you. For example, a Mediterranean Diet consists of eating whole grains. Gluten found in grains is the highest culprit of producing an inflammatory response in our body. So if you are gluten-sensitive, then this “healthy” way of eating would not work for you. Gluten-free diets have been given much attention over the past decade for good cause, but there are many other foods that may also cause inflammation. A ketogenic diet incorporates high protein, fat and low-carbohydrates or sugar. This may prove to have beneficial results from a weight loss prospective, but will this help inflammation also? Not likely if your body is sensitive to something you are eating every day.

such as probiotics and digestive enzymes. Dr Beck-Smith Many women with normal body weight and says, “I have seen many benefits of this test with my pa“healthy” diets still suffer from the effects of inflammatients. One of my patients was having 1-2 migraines a tion such as leaky gut, bloating, headaches, anxiety, achweek, but after eliminating the offending foods, he only iness, mental fog, fatigue, bowel dysfunction, and autohas 1 migraine every couple immune disorders such of months which is mainly as Hashimoto’s, psoriasis, due to weather changes. Aneczema, rheumatoid arother patient came to me with thritis, lupus and more. chronic pain and Sjogren’s. Even “healthy” foods such We incorporated the FIT reas fruits and vegetables sults into her meal plan for a can cause an inflammamonth and then added lowtory response leading to dose naltrexone prescribed by all these disorders. Sympher doctor for autoimmune toms from food-induced disorders. She has reported to inflammatory responses me a significant improvement can occur anywhere from in her chronic pain over the a few hours to a couple last 2 months.” She also sees of days after ingestion. improvements in her patients’ This delayed onset makes symptoms that they didn’t reit difficult to pinpoint the alize were attributed to what offending food(s). Trying they were eating like fatigue. an elimination diet could “I would recommend this test help, but in the case of for anyone struggling with gut gluten, it may take up to issues or autoimmune diseases 21 days of not eating gluor just want to decrease inten to see an improvement flammation for overall health. of symptoms. This methSample test results (above). So basically anyone including od could take months or kids and young adults,” says Dr. Beck-Smith. years to determine what foods you are sensitive to. It is quite possible you won’t have to give up your Performing a Food Inflammation Test (FIT) at Anfavorite offending foods forever though. Many times nie’s Apothecary can show you the level of inflammation your immune system gets into a hyper-sensitive state of foods that are problematic for you within 2 weeks. from continually ingesting inflammatory foods. Once This pharmacist-administered test uses blood from a finyou get through the 6-8 week food elimination phase and ger-prick to measure IgG and immune complexes of 132 gut repair is achieved, Dr Beck-Smith will guide you in different foods, colorings and additives spanning all major slowly re-introducing your favorite foods and monitoring your symptoms. Eating these foods infrequently can also have a decreased inflammatory response. With the food groups and candida (yeast). The colorful bar graph FIT at Annie’s Apothecary, you will be able to optimize (above) shows the severity of inflammation of each food which “healthy” diet is best for you. Keep this in mind that should be eliminated from your meals. Each test also when your body has hit a wall on weight loss or when you comes with a personalized meal plan that incorporates can’t quite figure out why you are so tired and bloated. your food sensitivities that can be downloaded onto your Autoimmune disorders can be attributed to gut inflamsmart phone. Dr Chelsea Beck-Smith, one of Annie’s mation as well. Apothecary’s pharmacists, schedules time with you to reFor more information on pricing of the FIT and view the FIT 132 test results to also devise a total health consultation services, visit www.anniesrx.com. plan which incorporates gut repair using supplements

No matter how “healthy” a food is deemed, if your body reacts to it with an inflammatory response it is not “healthy” for you.

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| F EATUR E |

BROKERING A NEW FUTURE by Benjamin D. Schooley

Real estate is a tough business. Ask Cali Redd and Jessica Johnson. Two women, whom through a string of events found themselves at stages of life where getting into real estate just made sense, so they made the jump and haven’t looked back. Not only have they excelled in their roles in the industry, but they have also set out to change the model for real estate sales. Once Solid Realty, LLC was formed, the two have worked tirelessly to balance their families, their careers, and to carve a path ahead of a fast changing industry.

edd, born in Scotland due to her father’s oil and gas employment but quickly transplanted to the Matagorda Bay area of Texas, will be the first to admit that her initial career directions were a bit unorthodox. She begins, “I was a good student in high school because it was a tiny school so you had to do everything and I did it pretty well. After graduation, I went to Southwest Texas State for Psychology. I didn’t really like school and my parents told me I could become whatever I wanted if I was enrolled, but it wasn’t my thing.” She continues with a laugh, “I actually ended up in mortuary school! I just thought it would be interesting, and it was, but I ended up having my 1st daughter while I was there and so I had to leave. “ From there, Redd was blessed into motherhood which grew to Heaven, Harmony, Hope, and Harvest – her four daughters. From 1997 to 2011 she would continue as a caretaker to 4 beautiful daughters, but real estate was something that she showed a natural

KENDALL COUNTY WOMAN

inclination toward. She explains, “Every time we bought a house I would think ‘You know, I could have sold this for $40,000 more’, and sure enough when we sold it, I did. So it was a natural progression for me.” So as a single mother, Redd became an agent in 2011 and joined the Ultimate Real Estate Team with Spenser Hash (broker). “I started well. I made the right choice with the initial broker because he taught me a lot and my income was growing and I was providing.” Her ambitions didn’t remain focused on simply “providing”; Redd wanted to become a broker and grow a business, so right at the required 4 years of experience, she received her broker’s license and Solid Realty, LLC was born in 2015. For Jessica Johnson, it was an equally winding path that brought her to real estate, and one that also shaped her into the persistent and dedicated professional that she is today. After being born in Florida and getting to Texas “as fast as I could”, Johnson ultimately made her way to Boerne, where she graduated from Boerne High School in 1998. She begins,

“I hated high school so I graduated a year early and had zero interest in college. I was married at 17, and when I was 21 my ex was on his 7th year of college and my bartending job was making more. Not good. So his parents said we could live with them rent free if we both went to school so I did and graduated with Honors in ’03 with a dual degree in Finance and Accounting.” With a blossoming career in the medical industries, Johnson’s health and marriage were failing and she quickly realized that change was going to be required. She continues, “There was a big need for mental health work because the AffordableCareAct brought mental health into the forefront and I loved that company I was with at the time and they wanted me to go to Colorado and I had just gotten divorced. I literally weighed 400 pounds, and needed a huge change in my life. So I said no to Colorado, had a life changing moment and had a really, really long talk with God – I just needed help. I woke up the next morning and I had an invitation to the University of Iowa MBA program that was in Italy, actually. I sold everything I had, gave my sister my car, put on a backpack and moved to Italy. I was there for a year. I absolutely loved Italy – there were 15 people in my program. All these different nationalities and I was the only Texan. Every time anybody asked folks where they were from they’d say US. For me, I’d say Texas. I loved that.” For Johnson, who “hated school” yet graduated from high school in 3 years, college in 2 years, and an

MBA in 1 year, she was at a point for some real career decisions after returning from Italy. She explains, “We had to create a business in our classes and we had to build it to fruition and because I had always been in healthcare for the previous few years, I started a counseling clinic that helped kids. I am not a counselor because I engage way too much with people’s stories on an emotional level but I wanted something that benefitted their world. When you graduate counseling you must have 3000 hours before you are licensed. There are very few facilities that actually pay interns so unless you’re wealthy or have a spouse,

Johnson says, “Cali started talking to me about real estate. My first response was an emphatic NO. I only knew realtors were tall, blond, skinny, and married to rich people! I had a lot of preconceived notions, but I was looking for a job but I enjoyed the freedom of the clinic. Being able to go out and market and not have a “lunch hour” or have calls at all hours. When I left my job I was done with the concept of working for corporate America for the next 20 years.” Despite her reluctance, the seed had been planted. Johnson began to investigate the industry and ultimately got her real estate license and worked at a Kerrville brokerage for a short while. The two had become friends, which ultimately cost Johnson her job. She laughs, “Cali was at Keller Williams and I went out and met her at a house and she posted a picture of us hanging out at this house and my old employer terminated my job there because they figured we were working on the side!” From there, the two did begin working together and the synergy that they both bring to the table was born. Cali adds, “We balance each other so well – I’m more of a very detailed driven person, where Jessica is more focused on the big picture as opposed to the minutia. That dichotomy works so well for us and is one of our greater strengths” This is where the two have differentiated themselves. While we are all familiar with the 6% commission structure of most real estate transactions, Solid Realty will

“It shuldn’t be hard and stressful, so having the options is a comfort level for people.”

KENDALL COUNTY WOMAN

it’s very difficult for interns. So I wanted to create a paid internship business which was then enabled by the ACA. If you’ve got a situation where 3 kids are in counseling, it gets very expensive for parents. So I partnered with therapists, and I handled the business end. Parents would pay the co-pay which let’s just say is $20, the intern got $15, and the clinic got $5. It was called Family Changes Play Therapy and it still exists here today. Patricia McNaught is the therapist and we opened it in August of 2012.” The two, who didn’t know each other yet, both signed up for Leadership Boerne, the course that is sponsored by the Boerne Chamber of Commerce in 2014.

certainly work that way if you want, but then they give you options for a flat-fee based service. Johnson continues, “I was so on board with the concept because one of my transactions previously was with a military family and I remember we were sitting at the closing table and the family had brought a check to give to the title company. And they said ‘Well, we had to borrow some money from grandma to pay your commission’ and it just bothered me. The amount of work, hour-wise, was just not representative to the work I had put in. They didn’t want to move, the military was moving them. It just didn’t settle with me. So when Cali proposed this concept, I just knew it was a great idea and it made sense for me.” Cali continues, “It’s all about options. It’s about service. Why should things be the same for everybody? What do you want out of this? What can you afford? I remember somebody having to bring a check for $16,000 to close the deal and I just felt like we should have cut our commission.” Johnson agrees, “We’ve had incredible response to it. We’ve saved our clients $200,000 in fees over the past 2 years. People think that is crazy, but our referrals are unbelievable so that has made us so busy.” To explain a bit, Solid Realty, LLC offers you not a standard 6% rate commission structure that includes a variety of services, they tailor their services for your needs. Are you an investor selling a simple rental house? Well, that’s a lower-priced package. Are you in a wonderful home and want all of the services and representation but are looking to save money? Then they have a package for you as well that is half of the typical commission of most brokerages. Essentially, they sit down with you and craft a service package that works for what you want instead of applying the blanket service package that many

other brokers apply. Johnson explains, “If it’s a $1million property, that’s a $30,000 commission just to me. So if I tell you, ‘You want all these services that are necessary for me to properly market your home, then the price is different, but you’ll still save a ton of money. Our time, photography, staging, meeting clients, starting the fireplace, etc’…so then it becomes a negotiable price for those services. You have options, so it’s a negotiable set of services.” Redd continues, “Some realtors are afraid of the model. They think we won’t be responsive. So when we ARE responsive, they tend to really warm up to it and we still get our clients to pay the 3% for the buyer’s agent. Agents won’t show your home if you’re not paying that 3%, so we don’t require that our sellers pay that commission, but we highly encourage it.” And the model is working. In their first year, they had saved their clients approximately $47,000 in fees. Last year it was over $200,000. This type of growth in revenue equals growth in people, so the duo intend to add additional office staff shortly and to continue to fine-tune their message and their services. That said, their personalities are representative of the fun that they have in their jobs. Johnson finishes, “I wear a nametag that say I’m ‘Chief Hugger’ cause I hug everybody. Cali’s is ‘Duchess of Delegation’. It’s just fun. That’s like our signs that say ‘FREE TACOS WITH PURCHASE!’ – it’s just fun and that’s how we live our lives and we want you to enjoy the process so we want YOU to have fun with us as well. It shouldn’t be hard and stressful, so having the options is a comfort level for the people.”

Cali Redd

• Leadership Boerne Council with Boerne Chamber of Commerce • Board Member, Rainbow Center at Kronkosky Place • Education Committee, Kerrville Board of Realtors • Professional Standards Committee, Texas Association of Realtors

Jessica Johnson • Current President of Boerne Noon Rotary Club • Rotarian, 2014 to Present • Board Member for HCMFH, 2014 – 2016 • NAWBO San Antonio Member, 2017 Current • Nominated for NAWBO Business Woman of the Year, 2018 • Gala Chair for Dress for Success, 20172019 • Gala Chair for Rainbow Senior Center at Kronkosky Place, 2013 and 2014 • Awarded Ambassador of the Year, Boerne Chamber, 2013 • Nominated for Business Woman of the Year 2012 – 2018 by Boerne Chamber of Commerce • Lean Six Sigma Certification (Black Belt) • LIFE Leadership Development • MBA, University of Iowa 2012 MARCH/APRIL 2019

HOUSTON | AUSTIN | SAN ANTONIO

NAI Partners is a full-service firm offering client leasing and sales solutions in the areas of office tenant representation, office landlord representation, industrial tenant representation, industrial landlord representation, landlord services, retail services, property management, investment sales, an investment fund, and project management, among other services. As an independently owned company, we have the agility of a smaller firm, but can leverage the scale of the NAI Global network to provide the service of the biggest firms. We’re structured to offer partner-level expertise every step of the way, from proposals, to building tours, negotiation and deal closing.

Joe DeCola, a veteran commercial real estate sales professional, is a Vice President with NAI Partners. Joe occupies a “player/coach” role, functioning as a producer with a focus on building NAI Partners’ Retail Services business and teams in the company’s Austin and San Antonio offices, and also providing sales coaching and management for the company’s junior-level producers in those markets. He splits his time between the two cities on a weekly basis.

Joe DeCola

HOUSTON | AUSTIN | SAN ANTONIO

Joe DeCola

1020 NE Loop 410, Suite 810 San Antonio, TX 78209 www.naipartners.com/sanantonio

+ 830 739 4646 joe.decola@naipartners.com

Vice President

shopmommy2b@gmail.com · @ShopMommy2B

Maternity · Baby · Jewelry & Accessories www.ShopMommy2B.com · 210 E Blanco Rd, Boerne, TX 78006 · 830.816.5918

LLC

Heather Clement Tessmer, Attorney at Law Board Certified in Family Law Certified Mediator

Ever Argue With

A WOMAN? OUR ATTORNEYS HANDLE: Divorce Personal Injury Estate Planning & Probate Child Custody & Support Common Law Marriage Prenuptial & Postnuptial Agreements Business & Charitable Organizations Military Divorce Adoption & Guardianship Collaborative Divorce

(210) 368-9708

www.TessmerLawFirm.com 7800 W Interstate 10, Ste 830 San Antonio, Texas 78230

| FAS H ION |

Welcome to

celeste Located in the heart of Boerne, TX c e l e s t e is a well known Clothing Boutique that offers customers a place to find extraordinary style and playful fun. Founded by Celeste in 2004 with her sister Suzanne, they strive to make every person who walks into c e l e s t e leave as a friend and loyal customer. Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for the latest trends, shoes or accessories c e l e s t e has something for everyone to buy and love. 140 South Main Street, Boerne, TX 78006 www.ShopCelesteTX.com

photos by Kate Cooley

KENDALL COUNTY WOMAN

Heather Grey Embroidered Top Caite | $98

Bamboo Top (Variety of Colors) Piko | $32.00 Print Ankle Pants FDJ | $86.00 Wedge Stripped Espadrilles Toni Pons | $104 30

KENDALL COUNTY WOMAN

Are the ‘healthy’ foods you’re eating sabotaging your health? Our FIT Test measures sensitivities to different foods and additives, helping you eliminate foods in order to reduce your symptoms.

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Annie’s Apothecary and its employees concentrate fully as being the best resource to achieve optimal health and wellness through the art of compounding, nutritional supplements, and patient education. (830) 981-4774 | www.AnniesRx.com | 211 S. Saunders St., Boerne, TX 78006 Kendall County’s ONLY accredited compounding pharmacy.

| P R OFI LE |

Heather Tessmer’s new office location in Boerne, TX.

THERE’S NO PLACE

LIKE HOME by Benjamin D. Schooley

With almost 20 years of legal experience, attorney Heather Tessmer is well known throughout our area. Not only as a lawyer, but as a fellow Kendall County resident. Having spent several years at her San Antonio location near the I-10/410 interchange, Tessmer is excited to announce the opening of her newest location in Boerne!

essmer begins, “We primarily handle lots of family, personal injury, estate and probate, corporate law, and contract review. We also do lots of business formation law so cover most every type of law, and if we don’t do it, we’ll find you a referral source for someone that specializes in that.” With her well known billboards with the tagline “Ever argue with a woman?”

Tessmer has grown her practice exponentially and, having lived here for years, she began to look around Boerne for adequate space. She continues, “I live in Boerne and it’s growing so fast and I happen to really like the new judge (Kirsten Cohoon) which I think will be really helpful for a lot of people, and we also do mediations so we’ll have the space for a nice, comfortable setting for mediations. I can be up here more than driving in to San Antonio.” Located at 402 E. San Antonio just a few blocks from the Courthouse, Tessmer plans to hopefully transition some of her time to this office and make things more convenient for clients in Kendall County, where she does a great deal of business. “The commute to San Antonio is not getting any easier, and as the staff is fully staffed, I should be able to work remotely from time to time out of

this office. We’ve got a great infrastructure right now; we have 4 other attorneys, 3 paralegals, and 4 admin people. Myself. My husband does all the financial stuff.” Tessmer credits her staff and the team atmosphere at the law firm for the success of the firm, and also notes her staff’s professional handling of often emotional cases. She continues, “One of the things that stands out to me is that we’re completely staffed by women. All of our attorneys and paralegals are all female, and we tend to treat our clients very personally. We tell our clients all the time to stop worrying about things because we’ll be worrying about it now. We also worry a lot about deadlines –we set up Docket Control Orders and get the mediations scheduled quickly, and we like to keep things moving so that people can move on.”

Fully operational by March 1, you can reach Tessmer and her team at:

Tessmer Law Firm (210) 368-9708 402 E. San Antonio www.TessmerLawFirm.com MARCH/APRIL 2019

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| L IFES T YLE |

Balancing Conviction and Connection by Kayleigh Woolard, MA, LMFT

FIVE WAYS WE LOSE SIGHT OF THE PEOPLE WE LOVE WHEN WE DISAGREE

KENDALL COUNTY WOMAN

y business is relationships. As a marriage and family therapist, my passion is preserving intimate relationships by dialing into the complexities of conflict and the tricky dance of seeing and being seen within a family system. Studying partners is of particular interest to me because even simple conversations so often create minefields that end in hurt and conflict. Why? What happens when we speak to our partner that ignites our differences? My working theory involves the notion that we are valuing our convictions over our connection. More simply, we care more about being right than being together in conversation. As things escalate, we retreat to our own worlds and proceed to duke it out from a distance, feeling alone and unheard. But guess what? We do not have to agree to be worthy of respect. Learning to disagree and remain deeply connected is the true challenge, not figuring out how to â&#x20AC;&#x153;yes dearâ&#x20AC;? your way through the next 30 years. It is important to recognize where our efforts to connect are being thwarted in favor

or fighting for our convictions. The top five ways we get tricked into valuing conviction over connection are:

#1. WE DON’T LISTEN

It is as simple as that. We pride ourselves on being top-notch listeners, but when faced with an opposing view, we retain almost no new information. In fact, to cover up that we are not really listening, we do some very predictable things: we solve, we question, we lecture, we offer excuses, we criticize, and we write it off. Consider that time your partner was obviously angry; was it easier for you to blurt out something than to listen to their perspective and tell them why it made sense to you? Did you find yourself solving (“you should not get so mad”), questioning (“why are you always so mad?”), lecturing (“Getting that mad raises your blood pressure”), excusing others (“why are you so mad, they’re just kids?”), or criticizing? (“You’re a raving lunatic”). My fundamental belief about relationships is that we all have a very reasonable need from our partners, “SEE me, HEAR me, and know that I’m not crazy.” Magically simple if you think about it, I just want you to know me and tell me that I make sense. Pretty painful too when we consider that so many of our fights ignite to do just the opposite- illustrate craziness. If you struggle with listening: Remember that it is an act of faith that your partner is opening up to you. Stand down from your own agenda and become the sponge. Soak up the details of his/her message and tune into the feelings that are driving this story. When your partner is done talking, resist the urge to problem solve, or give opinions, and instead simply repeat the key details of the message. You don’t have to go full “robot” in your delivery, but kind curiosity that says, “did I get that right?” is a power tool for connection.

we are carefully tuning to the details that will spark conflict and ignoring the details that unite us. Listen to this statement “I’m so tired, I hate doing dishes at the end of the day.” Listening to disagree would bring about retorts like “oh, so I’m not tired?” or “I’m the one who cleans up 90% of the time!” On the other hand, if we make it a priority to listen to agree (“Ugh, I know- I’m beat too, and the dishes seem never ending!”), we get a lot closer to connection. Valuing conviction (being right), tells us that it is more important to get your point made than it is to show care for another person. In the case of listening to disagree- we drive a major wedge in conversation in our attempt to be right. If you struggle with listening to disagree: Remind yourself of the commonalities in your perspectives and experience, then gift your partner with this validating sentence: “It makes sense to me that you would feel this way, because…”

Learning to disagree and remain deeply connected is the true challenge

#2. WE LISTEN ONLY TO DISAGREE

Do you remember watching debates? Each participant is listening skillfully until BAM! they shift their gaze to a notepad where they scribble feverishly hoping to list every possible way to exploit words and undermine the opposition’s argument. I see this a lot with couples too, how sweet right?! No! It’s tragic for me in two ways: first, we miss out on really hearing each other and second, we erode the trust necessary to keep conversations flowing and connection operating. When we listen to disagree

#3. WE GET DEFENSIVE

Obviously, when we enter conversations with a perceived opponent, we will get defensive because we have now placed value in conviction (our side), not connection. Defensiveness is insidious in relationships because it feeds the flames of the current argument and kicks up new fires in every direction. Remember the last time you were late getting out the door together, maybe one of you expressed frustration. The defensive party may have responded, “you didn’t tell me what time we needed to leave” or “I don’t even want to go to this.” These defensive statements engage the other partner and often invite an exhausting cycle of criticism and more defensiveness. What if we could circumvent conflict by avoiding our defenses? It takes a hefty dose of vulnerability and insight (which is why we often skip it) to do the non-defensive thing, which is taking responsibility. Owning up to our mistakes and being transparent with our shortcomings lays a foundation for acceptance. If you struggle with defensiveness: Identify the part of the argument that you wish had gone differently and be quick to name your role in the avoidable incident. We are conditioned to believe that taking responsibility is the same as admitting guilt and facing punishment; but, when we value our connection, accepting our role in conflict is necessary. You are not “less than” when you make missteps in your relationship and owning them shows that MARCH/APRIL 2019

KAYLEIGH WOOLARD MA, LMFT

Marriage & Family Therapist at Life Knots Therapy Center Kayleigh is a creative therapist with an eye for making the most of connection. She holds a master degree in Marriage and Family Counseling and is fluent in both “Husband” and “Wife.” For more than six years at her private practice, Life Knots Therapy Center in Boerne, Kayleigh has helped couples find rhythm in the gentle place between acceptance and change where we are safe to take risks and love with our whole person showing. Using cutting edge relational science, comedy, and heaping doses of empathy, couples’ spats, revelations, and triumphs are recast in wit and served until they are doubled over laughing. Instagram: @lifeknotstherapy Website: lifeknotstherapy.com Email: kayleigh @lifeknotstherapy.com

you value and respect the other person. As you take responsibility for your part in conflict, be sure to avoid personal attacks.

#4. WE REWRITE HISTORY

In our efforts to be right, we have a powerful allyour own memory. Our brain really wants us to be right all the time, and it goes to great lengths to eliminate “dissonance,” that uncomfortable feeling when we hear contradicting arguments. We work very hard to get back to feeling “right” about issues. In fact, we often selectively forget information that disconfirms the beliefs we hold dear. For example; I may completely delete from my memory the two Sundays this month that we went to lunch instead of hunkering down for football games, and falsely claim, “all we ever do on the weekends is watch football!” We are guilty of changing our memory of facts to fight for our convictions. Sadly, we turn the same fate on our connection, too. We rehearse incomplete and false stories about our partner to maintain the security of our convictions… yikes! If you struggle with rewriting history: Get comfortable asking the question, “What am I missing?” Out loud. Work together to get a complete account of the facts, and resist the urge to soothe dissonance with defensiveness and falsities. Beyond the facts of the situation,

be descriptive of your own experience. Share how you are feeling, and what you’re thinking from a purely “I” perspective (“I’m bored by a day watching football and I was hoping for some excitement today.”)

#5. WE FAIL TO REPAIR

It is almost inconceivable to imagine not setting a broken bone in a cast, or cleaning up a major mess in the middle of your kitchen, right? Strangely, the same instinct to heal and fix is not present in many of our interpersonal struggles. We so often walk away from friendships, conversations and situations that have been tinged with con-

you in the future. Demanding apologies forces a “winner-loser” hierarchy and has a backwards focus on what was done wrong. If connection is our priority, we can openly create a plan for what will meet each of our needs now and in the future. Keep your needs positive, looking to what your partner can start doing, not what they should stop doing. Most heated arguments over politics, family, or even how to load the dishwasher boil down to a break in our connection. We slip easily into “my way” thinking, but the short term gains of feeling right and powerful are so minor when compared with the long term losses in our connection. As conviction rules, we begin to see each other as adversaries, we lose trust, we trade confidence for bully boldness, and we eventually forfeit engagement because it is just “easier that way.” It is important to remember, though that connection is not only necessary to share our minds, but to change them as well. Changes made without connection, are based in fear and shame, and they do not last. Only when we feel heard and accepted is it safe enough to explore change. As you consider the balance of connection and conviction, challenge yourself to be curious, not sure, about your partner; listen, find ways to agree, own your errors, tell true stories, and invest in repairs. Repeat after me: “You do not have to agree with me to be worthy of my respect.”

Most heated arguments over politics, family, or even how to load the dishwasher boil down to a break in our connection.

KENDALL COUNTY WOMAN

flict before we’ve had a chance to make it right with the other person. Our cultural aversion to saying “I’m sorry” is often the reason we ditch conflict interactions; but repairing does not always involve apologies. The necessary component of repair is identifying NEEDS; namely, “what do you need from me now, and/or when this issue arises again?” When we can ask for a specific change in behavior and commit to making our own changes in the future, the conflict is productive. We can move forward as a team when we have a plan for “next time.” If you struggle with repairing: Confront your own discomfort with “sorrys” and focus on what will help

| FA I T H |

I BOUGHT A

Bleacher Seat by Jamie Amerman

s I approach celebrating my 39th birthday this coming year I can’t help but recognize the realty that is staring me in the face. I know age is just a number but it’s this year that I am physically noticing some changes in me. Changes that aren’t necessarily bad, but changes that are obvious to admit that I might just be coming into a new decade with different types of aches, wrinkles and interests. I remember the nights when going out on the town sounded like a blast. I couldn’t wait to throw on a new cute outfit and check out the newest restaurant or bar. It wasn’t long ago that I could sit in my bed to read a book without the words ever seeming small or fuzzy. I recently purchased my first set of readers and I feel pretty darn cute wearing them. I finally have acquired a taste for wine and coffee—two drinks I thought only “old” people drank. I understand and appreciate the use of sunscreen. My idea of an awesome date now night consists of sitting on my porch snuggled next to my husband while we dream about growing old together and where we want to retire. Having a clean house actually matters to

KENDALL COUNTY WOMAN

me as before I could have cared less. I recently had to color my grey hairs for the first time in my life. At the carpool line I have noticed I am no longer the young mom on campus. There are women there much younger than me. And what really has me reeling is the fact that this week I purchased my very first bleacher seat. I finally gave in after being tired of sitting on a hard bleacher while my back ached and my butt hurt. Even with all of these aging signs I still have never been able to admit that I might be growing up. I won’t ever say I am growing old because I really believe age is just a number. I absolutely love the stage of life I am in right now. I know that is only because of my relationship with Christ. From an insecure doubtful young woman to a mature and confident woman of God. I am embracing all that life has to offer and because of that I see God continuing to refine me. And when I read 2 Corinthians 4:16, “So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day” I know God isn’t finished with me yet. I imagine you are in a season of noticing changes of your own. Chang-

es that may be a bit uncomfortable, unsettling, and even unnerving. Try to remember Psalm 92:12-15, “The righteous flourish like the palm tree and grow like a cedar in Lebanon. They are planted in the house of the Lord; they flourish in the courts of our God. They still bear fruit in old age; they are ever full of sap and green, to declare that the Lord is upright; he is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in him.” As women of God, regardless of age, we can still bear fruit. Did you notice that the trees mentioned , the palm and the cedar, are known for vitality in old age? It’s the whole idea of being “planted at the house of God—faithfulness through the years. Keep in mind that the longer we decide to walk with God, the stronger our testimony will be. So, here is some advice from your wise and aging friend: stop worrying about the minor changes to your body and your life. Be intimate with God, in sweet communion with Him throughout your years to come. You will long to hear the sounds of the trumpet when it comes! And such a sound is coming!

Hi! I ’m Jamie. I used to think that being savvy meant knowing all the cool things that were going on around town, keeping up with the latest fashion trends, knowing where to dine on a night out, and justing being “with it.” That was before I met Jesus. He changed my heart. He rocked my world. He helped me see what being savvy really meant. The definition of savvy is the ability to make good judgement; know or understand. I have been restored and made new because of the blood Jesus Christ shed for me. This love affair that I am having with my maker is one I cannot keep quiet. I want every woman to experience living a savvy life for the Lord. A life where we all can truly understand the depth of love Jesus has for each of us. Because I believe once you understand who you are in Christ, you are set free and are able to rise above and become a freedom fighter for others around you. I am a Christian and I have been set free from years of shame, guilt, sin, and insecurity. I am a wife to my amazing, handsome, loyal, hard working high school sweetheart. We celebrate 15 years of marriage this Fall. I am a mom to 4 wild, talented, precious children who all make me laugh and keep me on my toes. My family is my world and Jesus is the center of it all. Writing has become a passion for me. One that started out as a way for me to be still and reflect on all that God is doing in my life. I am honest. I am raw. I am personal. My hope in sharing my heart is that you will be encouraged, inspired, and most importantly, interested in pursuing Jesus in an intimate way. He will change your life. He will change your heart. Sit back. Read. Pray. Grow with me and come with Jesus for a joy ride!

Contact: jamie.amerman@kupersir.com

MARCH/APRIL 2019

| EV EN TS |

SPRING BREAK

CAMPS Spring Break is looming and have no plans for the family? Don’t want to have the kids lounging around for the week moaning “We’re bored!”? We have you covered. Here you’ll find several options for camps and activities that will keep your crew busy, and hey, they might even learn something!

CIBOLO NATURE CENTER SPRING BREAK CAMP Join us for action packed days at Spring Break Camp. Come for one, two or all three days! We will dip our nets in the marsh for critters, hike, tie-dye, and catch bugs in the prairie. We’ll use binoculars to look for wildlife, sing songs and make crafts to take home. Camp is for ages 5 – 12 years old. More info: www.cibolo.org

BOERNE GYMNASTICS SPRING BREAK CAMP Join the fun at the Boerne Gymnastics Center with basic instruction in gymnastics, rock wall climbing, trampoline, and more with USA Gymnastics Safety Certified staff. Get a workout and have fun too! Kids will have open gym time and group games each day as well. Groups will be constructed based on age and ability. Come for one day or all three. Register for each day, individually to fit your family’s Spring Break schedule! More info: www.boernegym.com

CAMP INVENTION AT FABRA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL A program of the National Inventors Hall of Fame®, Camp Invention is an exciting, week-long summer adventure with lessons that explore connections between science, technology, engineering, and innovation. Children in kindergarten through 6th grade work together to seek solutions to real-world problems and sharpen critical 21st century learning skills while rotating through several fascinating modules. More info: www.campinvention.org

LEGACY RIDING STABLES SPRING BREAK CAMP Reasonably priced Spring, Summer, Fall and Holiday camps available throughout the year for children ages 5 and up. No previous riding experience necessary. A fun filled day of Riding, Crafts & Activities, Games and Friendship. Your child will learn horsemanship skills in a fun environment where safety is key. Friendly staff members will make your child’s camping experience one they will cherish. More info: www.legacyridingacademy.com 44

KENDALL COUNTY WOMAN

COMPREHENSIVE EYE EXAMINATIONS | EYE CARE DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT Jennifer Johnson has dreamed of becoming an optometrist since she was in middle school, and through hard work and determination, she made her dream come true.

Chamber of Commerce. In addition, she joined the Board of the Rainbow Senior Center at the Kronkosky Place in 2012 and was named Boerne Business Woman of the year in 2015.

At the young age of four, Jennifer was diagnosed with accommodative esotropia and hyperopia, and was prescribed her first pair of eyeglasses and began engaging in vision therapy. It was during this phase of her life that she was introduced to a whole new visual world, and began developing her passion for optometry.

After more than 17 years of practicing optometry and gaining experience in various areas of eye and vision care, under the supervision of talented mentors and experienced optometry professionals, Jennifer decided it was time to realize her dream of owning and operating her own practice. After consulting God through prayer, and her family, in August of 2017, Jennifer Johnson founded Johnson Eye Care in Boerne, Texas.

Jennifer attended Stephen F. Austin State University (SFA), where she successfully completed the pre-professional program in 1996. During her time at SFA, she worked as an optometric technician for four years, which is where she learned all aspects of running an optometry practice. Upon graduating from SFA, she was accepted to Southern College of Optometry (SCO), in Memphis, Tennessee, where she graduated with honors in 2000. She then moved to San Antonio and started practicing on the south side of town in a multi-specialty eye clinic.

Jennifer L. Johnson, OD, FAAO Therapeutic Optometrist Optometric Glaucoma Specialist

Missing her small-town roots and dreaming of practicing within a familiar, close knit community, she and her family moved to Boerne, Texas in 2009. In 2011, Jennifer joined the staff at Boerne Vision Center, where she established close personal relationships with members of the community. While working as part of the Boerne Vision Center team, she began participating in, and graduated from, “Leadership Boerne,” which is sponsored by the Boerne

In addition to serving the Fair Oaks and Boerne community as a talented optometrist, Jennifer is also married to Dr. Michael Johnson, who was also her high school sweetheart. Together, they have two amazing daughters, Cate and Grace. The Johnson family lives in the Fair Oaks Ranch community, where they are active members of First United Methodist Church of Boerne, and serve the community through various ministries. Cate and Grace enjoy participating in many of the weekly children’s and youth programs at their church.

BEST OF THE BEST IN BOERNE

1375 South Main Ste. 202 (next to Dietz-McLean Optical) :: phone: 830-428-0901 :: fax: 830-331-4100

HOURS

Monday, Tuesday, & Thursday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Wednesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM :: Friday 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM