Kendall County Woman - May/June 2019

KENDALL COUNTY

May/Jun 2019

WOMAN A Place

REFUGE CA R OLYN C HIPM AN EVANS

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Table of

CONTENTS May/June 2019

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COVER: A PLACE OF REFUGE In 1988, Carolyn Chipman Evans founded the Friends of the Cibolo to preserve and protect a national natural treasure. 30 years later, the organization is still in full bloom preserving the property and educating the community about the protection of natural resources.

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INTUITIVE SELF-CARE

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HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY

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MY SELF-CARE JOURNEY

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DESIGNING YOUR LIFE

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In order to help others, we need to heal multiple sides of ourselves. Join us as we dive deep into the 10 dimensions of identity that need a little love.

It is natural to experience periods of hormonal imbalance or changes at multiple stages in life. In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know about the benefits of hormone therapy and how it can help you.

Learn how a self-discovery journey led Brenda Bryson in the direction of a natural, alternative lifestyle and how this inspired her to help others in their path to wellness.

It all started with one bold move. Get to know Susan and Kurt’s story, and how their decision to move to town pushed them to build one of the most reliable flooring businesses in Boerne for more than 24 years.

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Established May 2009

Celebrating 10 Years

Every Hair Matters 138 Old San Antonio Rd. Ste. 506 Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 249-8938 www.TresBellaSalon.com MAY/JUNE 2019

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Letter

KENDALL COUNTY

WOMAN May/June 2019 | Issue 03

from the Publisher

Dear Kendall County Woman reader, One of the best things about this magazine is the opportunity to meet the women that make this County the special place it is. This month’s cover is a great example: Carolyn Chipman Evans has forever changed the face of our area through her hard work and dedication in the development and creation of the Cibolo Nature Center. I first met Carolyn in about 1986 or ’87 when we first moved here. Her son Jonah, and our son Morgan became friends through school, and we’ve remained in touch through the kids in the years since. So when I go to CNC and see the changes, how it has developed, the foresight and the thought that has gone into the overall plan, I know that Carolyn, Brent, and their friends are who we need to thank. Well, Carolyn and the City of Boerne, which had the foresight to purchase 125 acres of the Herff Ranch in 1964! I hope that you are encouraged by her story to do whatever you can to preserve and protect our natural resources, whether it is water, or raw land, the air, or just the nature in your own neighborhood.

I should also note that this magazine has experienced an unprecedented amount of growth in a very short period of time. This is only our 3rd issue, yet we have gone from 40 pages to 60 pages in just those few months. We have tapped into a market (local women) that have been grossly underserved for a very long time, and the aggressive response from our readers as well as an ever-growing client list, is evidence that we are speaking to an audience that wants to engage the publication, learn about their fellow local women, and be encouraged by other women out there striking out on their own paths.

With the increase in pages, we have increased our content. We have another installment from Ms. Woolard, local therapist and counselor, and I’ve found her articles relatable and encouraging. Susan Lyman-Krom’s story with Epic Flooring is a great one about how she has worked tirelessly in an industry that she is passionate about, and is celebrating over two decades of work here in Boerne. Also, Dr. Liz McRae’s recent sale of her private medical practice is bittersweet in that she is moving to a new chapter of life, yet exciting as she can better focus on her other passions. Brenda Bryson talks of her phsycial therapy journey, the ladies at Pearl Antler show off some great fashion, and we even learn about some of the City of Boerne’s summer camp options. All in all, I think we’ve got you covered for your “end of the school year / start of summer” issue!

As always, we’re on the hunt for even more great content for our future issues. If you’ve got a great story, suggestion, or lead to someone interesting, we want to know about it. Drop me a note at peggy@smvtexas.com and I’d love to start a conversation with you! We can’t do this magazine without you, and with your input, we’d love to continue to create the area’s premier magazine for Kendall County Women.

Sincerely,

PUBLISHED BY

SMV Texas Design Group, LLC 930 E. Blanco, Ste. 200, Boerne, TX 78006 Advertising Inquiries: (210) 507-5250

PUBLISHER

Peggy Schooley peggy@smvtexas.com ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Benjamin D. Schooley ben@smvtexas.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Ben Weber

ben.weber@smvtexas.com OPERATIONS MANAGER

Tiffany Lewis

tiffany@smvtexas.com

DESIGNED AND PRODUCED BY

SPS DGTL 112 E. Pecan St., Suite 360, San Antonio, TX 78205 (210) 634-0818 CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Madelyn Olsen GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Emma Guller Peggy Schooley, Publisher

Kendall County Woman Magazine

ADVERTISING COORDINATOR

Alexandra Rubio

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May/June BOERNE

Lemonade Day

MAY 5 Location Varies Cost: Varies Help us empower today’s youth to be tomorrow’s entrepreneurs! Lemonade Day is a free, fun, experiential learning program that teaches youth how to start, own and operate their own business – a lemonade stand. https://lemonadeday.org/boerne/story

CBD: Hype or Hope Workshop

MAY 7 | 8:30 AM - 9:30 AM The Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce Boardroom 121 S. Main Street Cost: $5/Person (Includes Breakfast) Join us for a workshop presented by Annie’s Apothecary! Dr. Leigh Ann Greenburg will be presenting about health benefits and legalities of Cannabidiol.

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KENDALL COUNTY WOMAN

Boerne Berges Fest

JUN. 14-16 Parade on Main Street Festival at Kendall County Fairgrounds 1307 River Road Cost: $5 Parking; FREE Admission Join us Father’s Day weekend for a 3 day, family-friendly festival centered around the German heritage of the Boerne area.

Includes an old fashioned community parade and then continues with the “Festival in the Hills” at Herff Park/Kendall County Fairgrounds. The Boerne Berges Fest is one of the City of Boerne’s biggest festivals. http://www.bergesfest.com/

Mostly Native Plant Sale

MAY 4 | 9 AM - 3 PM Kendall County Fairgrounds 1307 River Road Cost: $5 for Non-Members; FREE for Members The Cibolo Nature Center and Farm will host its Mostly Native Plant Sale for the 29th year.

You can find native Hill Country plants for your landscape and gardens while supporting the good work of the Cibolo Nature Center & Farm.

Boerne Art Waddle

MAY 11 | 10 AM - 3 PM Begins at 204 W San Antonio Cost: FREE Stroll, ride bikes and picnic along Cibolo Creek while viewing paintings, illustrations, jewelry, pottery, sculptures and more, hosted by neighbors in their yards in The Flats of Boerne. Works by more than 70 artists will be for sale, and the event will help support scholarships to Summer Art Camp at the Cibolo Nature Center and Farm.

Hauptstrasse Quiltfest

MAY 4 | 9 AM - 4 PM Main Plaza and Downtown Boerne Cost: FREE Enjoy a great spring Saturday in Boerne and experience this colorful event. There will be music, sale quilts, special exhibits, presentations and more.

Boerne VFD Annual Fish Fry and Auction

MAY 4 | 4 PM - 8 PM Boerne Fire Department 726 N. Main St Cost: By donation, or $10/plate (to-go) Saturday, May 4th, come out and help support the BVFD at its annual fish fry! Food will be served from 4:00PM to 8:00PM. There will also be a live music, a live auction, a silent auction, and a raffle. Eat your weight in a delicious catfish dinner, and then dance the night away!

Boerne Concert Band Memorial Day Performance MAY 26 | 7 PM 100 N. Main Cost: FREE The Boerne Concert Band performs live

musical concerts for audiences in the Boerne, Texas area. The concerts are always FREE to the public. This group of volunteer musicians is becoming one of the best performing groups in Central Texas and is proud to present a wide variety of music to entertain audiences of all ages. Concert goers bring lawn chairs, blankets and picnics.

The more missions you complete, the more chances you have to win! $5 from each ticket sale will go directly into a “Boerne cash pot” which will be given away to one lucky raffle ticket holder at the end of Shop-A-Palooza! With 400 tickets up for grabs, this could mean one lucky winner walks away with $2,000!

FREDERICKSBURG

58th celebration of the annual peach crop including peach judging, crowning of the Peach Queen, parade, peach eating, pit spitting, food, music and rodeo. Gates open each evening at 6 pm. Mutton busting at 6:45 pm. Rodeo at 8 pm Friday followed by a concert and dance. Parade at 10 am on Saturday; rodeo at 8 pm Saturday followed by concert and dance. Daytime activities on Saturday are free. Tickets available event ticket window. Concessions also available. stonewalltexas.com

Fredericksburg Trade Days

Movie in the Park

MAY 31 | 7:30 PM JUN. 28 | 6:30 PM Boerne Main Plaza 100 N. Main Cost: FREE Enjoy pre-show activities, and the movie begins at dark! Feature presentation to be announced.

MAY 17-19 FRI. & SAT. | 9 AM - 6 PM SUN. | 9 AM - 4 PM 7 miles east on Hwy 290 Across from Wildseed Farms Cost: $5 parking fee good all three days Shop with over 400 vendors in seven barns and acres of antiques, collectibles, tools, crafts, shabby chic, primitives, ranch furniture, hunting accessories, candles, unique clothing, jewelry, food and so much more.

Relax in the Biergarten while listening to live music. Portion of proceeds benefits local charities.

Boerne Shop-A-Palooza

JUN. 22 | 10 AM - 4 PM Downtown Boerne 100 N. Main Cost: $25.00 A $25 ticket scores the holder a game board featuring participating shops and restaurants around Boerne and the Hill Country Mile.

Complete one of the “missions” on the board (a small item to purchase or amount to spend) and score a raffle ticket to be entered to win thousands of dollars in gift cards from local businesses, and up to $2,000 in Boerne Cash.

MAY 19 | 4 PM - 6 PM 148 S Castell Ave Cost: FREE Let the Dachshund Races begin! Come see why this is one of our most popular events at Krause’s Cafe. 1st, 2nd & 3rd place will be invited back to participate in our October 13th “Dasch for the Cash” where we will award prizes to 2019’s Speediest Weenie!

If your pup isn’t race ready, we’ve still got ways for them to participate! We award trophies for Best Costume, Cutest Pup and Best Trick at every race – no registration required! We are accepting food and supply donations for the HSNBA.

Food Truck Festival in Luckenbach Texas

JUN. 29 | 12 PM - 7 PM 412 Luckenbach Town Loop Cost: $15/Person Save the date! Enjoy a full day of food trucks, wine from local wineries and live music!

Fundraiser for the proposed Texas Center for Wine & Culinary Arts. Details TBA. luckenbachtexas.com

Craft Beer & Cheese Pairing

Boerne Family Fish

JUN. 1 | 9 AM - 11 AM Boerne City Lake Park 1 City Lake Road Cost: FREE The first Saturday in June is fish without a license day in the State of Texas therefore adults fishing in this tournament are not required to carry a fishing license to participate in this tournament. The goal of the Child / Adult Team Fishing Tournament is to provide a free opportunity to introduce the sport of fishing to children as well as create a safe environment for parents and children to enjoy the outdoors together.

Dachshund Races

NEW BRAUNFELS Old Gruene Market Days Spring Fandango at the Gillespie County Fairgrounds MAY 18 Gillespie County Fairgrounds 530 Fair Drive Cost: $20/Person; free for kids 12 and under Mark your calendars now! Car show starts at 2 pm. Vendors from 2 to 9 pm. Goat roping. Live music starts at 3 pm with the Jesse Stratton Band, John Christopher Way, and two Nashville recording artists to be announced soon! More details TBA. Gates open at 2 pm. gillespiefair.net

58th Annual Stonewall Peach JAMboree and Rodeo JUN. 21-22 Stonewall Chamber of Commerce 250 Peach Street Cost: Varies by Event

3RD FULL WEEKEND OF EACH MONTH Market Hours: 10 AM - 5 PM Gruene Historic District, in front of Adobe Verde Cost: Free parking, admission, and live entertainment Gruene Market Days has been held every month except January for over 30 years and features more than 100 artisans offering handmade items made by the vendors themselves, including uniquely crafted items and packaged Texas foods.

MAY 29 | 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM Faust Brewing Co. 499 S Castell Ave Cost: $25 for cheese board and beer flight We pair FIVE artisanal cheeses from Gourmage with FIVE craft beers from Faust Brewing Company and learn about what makes the pairings and products so special. Afterwards, everyone is invited to stay for private happy hour at Faust Brewing Company, and Stephanie from Gourmage offers exclusive deals on her fantastic cheese.

2019 Home & Garden Show

JUN. 1 | 10 AM - 5 PM JUN. 2 | 11 AM - 4 PM New Braunfels Civic/Convention Center 375 S Castell Ave Cost: $5 (Age 16 and older) The Hill Country Conference team has brought in the experts to help you complete any project you can dream up. The entire New Braunfels Convention Center will be completely transformed, for one weekend only, into a Home and Garden Extravaganza.

From the front door to the back you’ll find it all at the New Braunfels Home & Garden Show.

MAY/JUNE 2019

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KENDALL COUNTY WOMAN

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Intuitive Self-Care 10 DIMENSIONS OF IDENTITY THAT NEED A LITTLE LOVE

by Kayleigh Woolard, MA, LMFT

“

Self Care” is all over the place these days. You see people proudly indulging in self-care on social media, gurus and bloggers pushing it, and you even have it on your to-do list for “some evening when everything else is done.” Given my very limited success creating self-care plans with my clients, I think it is safe to say that making self-care a priority is a common struggle. It is hard to know where to start when it comes to taking care of yourself.

Do you take care of your unfolded laundry so that you’ll be less annoyed by it? Do you go out for a lovely dinner that will also require a plethora of planning on the childcare front? Do you buy something new that makes you feel special one minute and guilty the next? Do you put your feet up and binge an entire tv series without talking to your spouse?

Do you watch a bad movie with your spouse just to be together?

The problem that I run into, time and time again, is that I try to

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KENDALL COUNTY WOMAN

treat the complex (and numerous) sides of myself with the same blanket self-care—it just does not work! The part of me that feels like I haven’t used my brain in weeks, does not feel recharged by a pedicure. And the part of me that is lonely, does not want to be locked away by myself even to laugh out loud at my favorite tv show.

The other thing that happens with some brands of self-care is that I push my VERY REAL psychological experiences to the back burner and try to distract myself from feeling depleted. If we aren’t learning how to take care of ourselves in the midst of our daily stressors, we are doomed to repeat our patterns of pain.

We need a new way to see and care for ourselves.

What if we got up close and personal with our multiple sides of self and took care to learn and soothe each one?

You have, living within your psyche at this very moment, (at least) 10 different sides of yourself. Each one deserves a closer look and some custom-tailored self-care strategies.

THE HELPER YOU: the part of you that cares for others and works to contribute to their lives.

THE SOCIAL YOU: the part of you that craves connection and works to relate and interact with others.

THE ANTI-SOCIAL YOU: the part of you that prefers to be alone.

“It is hard to know where to start when it comes to taking care of yourself.”

THE MULTIPLE SIDES OF YOU THE INTELLECTUAL YOU: this is the part of you that likes information and is responsible for knowing things and formulating thoughts.

THE PHYSICAL YOU: this is the part of you that people see. Your body and its various sensations + your style.

THE EMOTIONAL YOU: the part of you that feels everything from euphoria to depression.

THE SPIRITUAL YOU: the part of you that asks big questions about right and wrong, the universe, religion, and ponders your place in all of it.

THE FUTURE YOU: the version of you that doesn’t quite exist yet. This is the possible, hopeful you but can also be the worried and fearful you.

THE CREATIVE YOU: the part of you that works artistically and thinks outside the box.

THE FUN YOU: this part of you strives to make memories and enjoy your surroundings.

OKAY NOW WHAT? STEP ONE: Identify which side of yourself is exhausted, hurting, or in need.

STEP TWO: Remember the main goal this side of yourself is seeking to accomplish.

STEP THREE: Let this side talk for a minute, and just listen. Really, talk/think about what has been going on as if you were ONLY this one side of yourself.

STEP FOUR: What can you START doing to care for this side of yourself ?

STEP FIVE: Write down what works. Every time something works you are learning about yourself. You are getting to know your needs and how to meet them!

Keep in mind, true self-care is not selfish. We often stop providing needed time-outs, support and compassion to ourselves because we do not want to be self-indulgent, but this thinking is misguided. It is necessary for our own mental health, productivity, and relationship satisfaction to be ever-mindful of our own needs- and to meet them when we can! “Take care of yourself ” is not just a polite salutation, it is an important reminder that you are always in need of a friend- be your own best friend.

I will end this article with the question I ask at the close of every session: what are you going to do for YOU between now and when we meet again?

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

MAY/JUNE 2019

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Family Owned and Operated 4th Generation Texas Hill Country Natives Go Texan Members 830-331-8889 www.259BrantleysBistro.com 259 South Main Street Olde Town Shopping Center

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A PLACE OF

R EFUGE

by Benjamin D. Schooley

Few people have devoted as much of their lives to the preservation of nature and to our local conservatory as Carolyn Chipman Evans. As CEO of the Cibolo Nature Center and Farm, Evans has spent the past 30+ years working tirelessly to not only preserve the natural resources we have locally, but also to educating the future generations on the joys that can only be found in nature in the hopes that when the torch is passed to them, they will continue her mission of stewardship.

E

vans begins, “I was born in San Antonio but spent as much time on the Herff Ranch as I could. I moved to the ranch when I was 18. The ranch was Ferdinand Herff’s original ranch and I’m the 6th generation to live on it. I still live on part of the original ranch, which is 3 miles east of the high school.”

She characterizes her youth as “being lost at sea as a kid” as she ventured from college to college, but it wasn’t until she moved to the ranch and truly became immersed in the nature that surrounded her that she found her life’s calling. After marrying her husband Brent in 1976, the two sat out to create a life in a town that at that time featured 2500 people and had one stop light in the entire town. Evans continues, “Brent and I were very interested in homesteading, so we had a huge garden and we had a flock of chickens, but we weren’t real farmers. We were weekend farmers. Brent had his social work with a private practice in San Antonio and we moved an old house out to the ranch and built it from scratch. We renovated

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that ourselves and built the huge gardens and the coops and it was such a happy time for us.”

The Evans welcomed their son Jonah in 1979, and daughter Laurel soon followed in ‘81. Evans enjoyed the privilege of being a stay at home mom raising their children and simply making memories on the ranch, but her view of the preservation of nature began to become more and more important to her. “As my children got older, I got more and more concerned about the environment. The news was overwhelming. The rainforests were being destroyed, the ozone layer was getting holes, nuclear power was threatening – there are so many concerns. Our skies, land, our waters were being destroyed. I sensed that I should do something about this, but I didn’t know how I could deal with those global problems.”

With a desire to enact change, yet an unclear path, one afternoon down at the Cibolo would send Evans on the path she was intended. She explains, “The CNC, the Farm, the Preserve – they were all part of the original ranch, so I had access to all of it as a kid and it was my sanctuary. The City had the foresight

MAY/JUNE 2019

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to purchase 125 acres from the family in ‘64 which is now the CNC and the City Park, and it was just wonderful planning. For decades, it was really just ranch land that allowed access to the river for a lot of people.

I took Laurel down to the creek for a birthday one afternoon, to our sacred place, and it was very disturbing to find that while the City had bought the land, they didn’t have the resources to care for it. There wasn’t even a Parks department. We got down there and there were beer bottles, cars were driving down there, trash was everywhere and it was just a mess. That day something sparked in me that this was something we can do. We can create the Friends of the Cibolo group and we can start taking care of something in our own backyard, and it’s not going to fix global problems, but we can do THIS.” In 1988, Evans founded the Friends of the Cibolo and a ragtag group of friends and their children simply began to clean up the area that is now the CNC. Those same kids that had been doing donuts on the property and tossing beer bottles all over the area became great champions for the land and began to take a sense of ownership of the property.

From there, the organization quickly blossomed into a group that is passionate about not only the preservation of the property, but an outreach organization that wanted to educate future generations on nature

conservation. Evans continues, “We started with nothing but the pavilion that was already there. In ‘92 the Visitor’s Center was donated to us, and it was from the back of Robert’s Drug Store and served as the owner’s home. The owner of the drugstore wanted to tear it down or move it, so he donated it to us. Murray Winn gave us $5000 to pay to move it so that got us the Visitor’s Center. We renovated it with friends and kids and anybody we could get. It was our Camp headquarters, our dinner headquarters, the volunteer headquarters...it was everything for us. We quickly outgrew that. So, in 2000 we started a capital campaign that was set up to add on to the facilities and to start raising money to purchase the Farm (the property fronting Herff Rd). We knew back in the ‘90s, that no matter how much protection we could give the creek, we were so close to the property line and we could see that the Cypress tree cathedrals and the feeling of being immersed in nature would disappear unless we planned ahead. We started raising money for the Farm, and in 2005 we opened the Learning Center. We were able to buy the Farm in 2007. We paid $2.5m for 60 acres. Was a lot of money because we were still just a handful of friends. In 2016 we were able to pay off the last of that debt and we put a conservation easement on the Farm to protect it forever.”

With the Herff Farm addition, the group has expanded their pres-

“We’re trying to demonstrate how people can live lightly in the Hill Country.”

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ervation responsibilities yet increased their workload. Evans explains, “We’re taking an iconic but very run-down old homestead and making it a public space carefully so that we can respect the history and teach for the future. It’s a sustainable living demonstration with rain catchment, gardens, land stewardship, protecting our native species, and working to keep the water clean. We’re trying to demonstrate how people can live lightly in the Hill Country.”

The Farm’s offerings and outreach is a large undertaking from the group, yet progress is constantly being made. “Our Farmer’s Market is booming and for the last almost 12 years we’ve had to to do everything to this place, including septic, parking, fencing, renovating the house, renovating the buildings and building additional spaces for gatherings. It’s been a huge effort of infrastructure and we’re right at the cusp of opening it up to our full scale of programming which will include our outdoor classrooms, farm classrooms, summer camps on the farm, preschool programs in the garden, the farmer’s market...we’re really getting ready to expand our programming so that we can get into full swing.”

As much as the group has accomplished, there is still much left to be done. They are currently working to fund the Nature Preschool, finish the barn and amphitheater, and build four new classrooms for the preschool which will enable it to grow from 17 children to 100, and has a waiting list that includes children that aren’t even born yet. This is a particularly important program for Evans. “The kids are a huge deal for me. What we recognize these days, it’s not just inner-city kids – it’s ALL kids – they don’t have access to nature. The current reality is that mom and dad both work, the kids go to preschool, come home at 5, do homework, and that’s it. Days and weeks go by without kids getting outside and connecting to nature. It’s proven that kids that get outdoors are happier and healthier and my secret hope is that they develop an appreciation of nature, which becomes a care for nature, which becomes the conservation of nature. I MAY/JUNE 2019

25

want them to connect to nature in any way possible.”

One must also consider the administrative costs for the people that have devoted their energies to the group.

Evans explains, “We have 15 employees and 4 Directors.

The earned income certainly helps, but the school field trips aren’t exactly paying the bills. The CNC has been supported by foundations from all over the state, very generous individual donations from people of all sorts, weddings, photo shoots, and more. We’ve been very fortunate that we’ve been able to get so much done. That said, we have a huge group of volunteers – probably over 300 volunteers—and it’s amazing cause they help us do this work and pay our bills. We couldn’t pay for that level of service and I am eternally grateful for each and every one of them. It’s such a wonderful place to volunteer because there’s something for everyone.”

To say Evans is busy is an understatement, but she relishes her mission. Actively working within the organization, Evans has no office which is by design. Choosing to meet outdoors if at all possible, Evans stays mobile with a laptop and a cell phone, and works feverishly to sustain the organization and to lead it to new directions of outreach. In a city that is one of the fastest growing in the

country, Evans and her team have their work cut out for them, but she is surprisingly optimistic. “I feel optimistic about this town. There’s been an awakening and awareness in the community for protecting these areas. They want to protect green space, they want trails, they want nature and they are far more vocal right now. They are saving things for their children, and there is a large crying out for things in our community. I would like to see the

nostalgic for the sweet and we’re all hungry for the beauty. It makes it so hard for a conservation organization to purchase land – we’re fortunate to have ONLY paid the millions we paid for our properties and many folks have donated land, put their own conservation easements on it, and voluntarily protected it. We hope to find more people that will do that.”

From one of the vintage couches in the restored Herff Farm homestead, Evans sips her coffee and gazes out the window at the property. With so many projects to be completed and initiatives to be undertaken, one can virtually sense her connection to the property and to the nature around it as she decides what to focus on next. “What’s next for me? I wake up many days thinking about how to keep the CNC relevant and real and meaningful to our community and communities beyond. I’m working on building the best team and the best model for a nature conservancy that we can build that will sustain long beyond Carolyn and Brent and will be a place that our children’s children’s children will be able to find a refuge and a place of peace and joy that continues to inspire care for the planet and our nature.”

“There’s been an awakening and awareness in the community for protecting these areas.”

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Creek protected from the CNC all the way to the headwaters. Our water for Boerne comes from their headwaters and there are beautiful springs that feed this creek which then fills Boerne lake, and I’ve seen San Antonio protect their watershed and their recharge areas, and it would be an amazing and fore-sighted thing for this region to protect this water.” She continues, “The rate of change is what is so hard these days. For so long it seemed like change happened slowly, but our community is growing so fast that it’s hard to stay in front of things. We’re all

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| H E A LT H |

Hormone Replacement Therapy WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

by Dr. Sara Stuart, DO

L

et’s face it. Being a woman isn’t easy. As early adolescents we fear the day when our cycle starts, and then as we move into our 40’s, we dread the day that hot flashes begin. With all these changes we start to wonder if hormone replacement therapy is right for us.

Menopause is indicated when a woman has not had a cycle for a full year. The phase before that, known as perimenopause, can last for years. Typically, perimenopause comes with hot flashes, cycle irregularity, vaginal symptoms, and moodiness. But who wouldn’t be moody?! The average age of menopause is 51.4 years, and some women follow their mother’s timeline. In an effort to help with these symptoms, physicians started replacing estrogen and progesterone, giving women what they were missing. It wasn’t too long ago that women were automatically given a prescription for hormones when this time began. And it was only decades ago when women were prescribed high doses of estrogen that were later found to be unsafe.

The benefits of hormone therapy vary by which route you use. Estrogen can be delivered systemically (to the whole body) through pills, patches, creams, pellets, and troches. When your body receives estrogen systemically, it can help with hot flashes, osteoporosis, vaginal dryness, mood and sleep.

Estrogen can also be delivered in low dose vaginal products that mostly help with vaginal dryness, pain and itching; for some women vaginal estrogen can help with hot flashes. If you still have your uterus, your doctor will typically prescribe progesterone to protect your uterus lining. Progesterone also has multiple routes of delivery. However, if you have had a hysterectomy (removed uterus), you may not require progesterone. Some physicians also prescribe DHEA and testosterone, both of which are hormones; some women

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KENDALL COUNTY WOMAN

find these helpful and others feel worse on them. Using DHEA and testosterone in women is more controversial in the medical community and can have other adverse effects like unwanted hair growth, aggressivity, breast tenderness, and yes, HOT FLASHES, when given at too high of doses. It’s important to find out which hormones are right for you. Hormones can be prescribed in bioidentical and synthetic forms through your pharmacy or trusted compounding pharmacy. We tailor what we prescribe to each woman’s needs. Hormones can also be found in over the counter supplements. Please check any hormone support supplements you are taking to ensure you aren’t getting any unwanted hormones!

The risks and benefits of hormone therapy vary widely; it’s important to balance them. Hormone therapy

can help with what can be a difficult transition in a woman’s life. But what are some of the risks? Clinical studies have shown that hormones can increase the risk of some serious conditions, including heart disease, stroke, blood clots and breast cancer. These risks are more pronounced

therapy. No woman is the same. All of our bodies vary, and the delivery system and dose your friend uses may not work for you. If It is decided that you are not a candidate for hormones, or if you prefer to go the non-hormonal route, there are multiple supplement preparations that can ease your symptoms without the risks. We have many women that pick this option.

Even healthy lifestyle approaches, like keeping cool, limiting alcohol and caffeine intake, and practicing deep breathing can ease hot flashes naturally. For vaginal concerns there are over the counter and compounded lubricants that can help. Being informed is what’s most important. So, if you are wondering if hormone therapy is right for you, ask your doctor, and have it custom tailored to you.

“No woman is the same. All of our bodies vary, and the delivery system and dose your friend uses may not work for you.” in women over 60 years of age. The risks also vary by how the hormones are delivered and what dose you are taking, as some preparations are riskier than others. All of these risks are considered when deciding to use hormone therapy, and it is important to talk with a trusted doctor to answer your questions and to decide which formulation and dose is best for you. It is also very important that you follow-up with your physician periodically to reevaluate your

Dr. Sara Stuart, DO CIBOLO FAMILY MEDICINE

Dr. Stuart was raised in Alice, a small town in South Texas. She grew to love the Hill Country as she regularly visited family in Fredericksburg and Boerne.

She graduated Summa Cum Laude with a degree in Biomedical Sciences from Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi, and was in the top 15% of her class at the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine in Fort Worth. After graduating medical school, she completed her residency at her top choice Family Medicine program in Texas, the Memorial Family Medicine Program.

She is board certified in Family Medicine and has a passion for treating all ages, from infancy to the elderly.

Dr. Stuart believes that quality care and patient-physician relationships are the core of Family Medicine. Cibolo Family Medicine Direct Primary Care is the realization of her dream - a practice where she can take excellent care of patients without time constraints, and be accessible to her patients when they need her.

Dr. Stuart started Cibolo Family Medicine specifically to give patients an exceptional experience. She believes in preventative and personalized care. She wants to listen, counsel, and give her undivided attention to her patients.

At CiboloFM we understand the importance of nutrition and fitness and can help you to develop a whole-health plan. Dr. Stuart can perform a variety of procedures in the office, and will refer you to excellent specialists as needed.

Dr. Stuart is married to Colin Stuart, and enjoys being outdoors with family and friends in her free time. She is happy to be in Boerne, and to call the Hill Country her home.

MAY/JUNE 2019

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Foundation Five Our pharmacists always recommend the Foundation Five when beginning your pathway to optimal health. You may find that many symptoms are relieved when you are consistent with these five supplements. You can find them in store or online at AnniesRx.com.

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Dr. Stuart, DO

Dr. Wiseman, MD

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I feel better than I have in a very long time.”

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“The most thorough and diligent physician I have ever seen. She's caring, intelligent, kind, and committed to long-term health.”

"Dr. Rios has a gentle kindness that was so appreciated. She listened carefully, made sound recommendations and gave me confidence that I had found the perfect doctor in San Antonio."

Dr. Hodnett, MD "Unbelievably sweet and caring doctor"

"Dr. Kevin Hodnett is a very thorough, caring doctor, who takes the time to listen and talk to you about health issues. Personable and friendly...Our family fully recommends him to anyone and everyone."

Quality Convenient Personalized Care CiboloFM.com Unlimited Family Membership: No cost for visits or procedures Relaxed, comprehensive visits Same-day appointments 24/7 Access to your doctor In-office labwork & blood draws No waiting

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211 N Main St, Boerne, TX 78006

19707 I-10 W #213 San Antonio, TX 78257

(830) 428-2500

(210) 946-3100

# TheEverythingStore Gifts From Our Hearts To Yours We carry a variety of gifts for different occasions, inspiration faith items, apparel, jewelry, bamboo clothing, chocolate, and more!

830-331-7375 116 S. Main Street victorianroseofboerne@gmail.com

BOTOX & FILLERS

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Dr. Abha Gyani SERVICES PROVIDED

Botox Vanquish Weigh Sculpting by BTL Fillers Microblading Eyebrows Dysport Laser Hair Removal Hydra Facials

We also provide concierge services at your residence.

For information call 210.900.3945 www.jovem.life | Inquire About Hosting A Party

| FAS H ION |

The Pearl Antler is a lot of glamour, some sparkle, a little sass, well maybe a lot of sass, totally outrageous, a spoonful of sophistication, always patriotic, a sprinkle of hippie and of course a dash of darlin’... The idea was to create a one stop shop for clothing, home decor and to eventually add stationary & a tea room. Empowering every woman, no matter her size, to feel amazing in what she’s wearing.

312 River Road, Boerne, Texas 78006 www.ThePearlAntler.com

photos by Kate Cooley

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KENDALL COUNTY WOMAN

MODEL (LEFT) Red Texline Tee | $36.95 Soul Shine Serape Belt | $78.95 Mesa Jeans | $42.95 Red Clay Rhinestone Ring | $15.95 Handmade Turquoise & Coral Necklace | $52.95 West & Co Bracelet Set | $28.95 MODEL (MIDDLE) Bloom Y’all Tee | $36.95 Jaycee Shorts | $28.95 Marfa Black Concho Belt | $74.95 Hoops by West & Co | $14.99 Silver Beads & Turquoise Cross Necklace | $21.99 Rings by Silverado | $16.95-22.95 MODEL (RIGHT) Diamond Dolly | $38.95 Jaycee Short | $28.95 Salinas Turquoise & Leather Cuff | $42.95 Designs by Jackie O Necklace

Savannah Eyeket Maxi | $46.95 (also available in white) Concho Belt | $74.95 Faux Squash Blossom Necklace Silverado Rings | $16.95-21.95

Boyfriend Denim Shirt | $42.95 Custom Necklace by Jackie O | $78.95 Southwest Hoop Earring | $13.99 Cami in Meadow | $12.95

MAY/JUNE 2019

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Richmond Denim Jacket | $47.95 Olivia Tunic | $36.95 Turquoise Slab Bolo | $39.95 Quannah Snake Bootie | $62.95 Silverado Rings | $16.95-21.95

Allison Jumpsuit | $48.95 Faux Squash Blossom Silverado Rings | $16.95-21.95 Terlingua Concho Belt | $74.95 Acid Washed Hide Clutch | $85.95

Floral Maxi Dress | $42.95 Mixed Necklaces | $28.95-48.95 Earrings | $18.95 Odette Sandal | $75.95

38

KENDALL COUNTY WOMAN

MODEL (LEFT)

Richmond Denim Jacket | $47.95 Olivia Tunic | $36.95 Turquoise Slab Bolo | $39.95 Espuela Bag | $449.00 Quannah Snake Bootie | $62.95 Silverado Rings | $16.95-21.95 MODEL (MIDDLE) Allison Jumpsuit | $48.95 Faux Squash Blossom Silverado Rings | $16.95-21.95 Rio Bravo Tassel Earrings | $18.95 Jalissa Sandal | $75.95 Terlingua Concho Belt | $74.95 MODEL (RIGHT) Boyfriend Denim Shirt | $42.95 Custom Necklace by Jackie O | $78.95 Southwest Hoop Earring | $13.99 Cami in Meadow | $12.95 Boyfriend Jeans $| 38.95 Soul Shine Serape Belt | $74.95 Clay Ring | $15.95 Lacy Fringe Booties | $68.48

MAY/JUNE 2019

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| H E A LT H |

My Self-Care Journey

by Brenda Bryson, PT, LMT

M

BRENDA BRYSON, PT, LMT Owner | Monarch Physical Therapy

42

KENDALL COUNTY WOMAN

oms: listen up! Let’s learn how to take care of ourselves now, not later!

Every day we are being bombarded with new claims, new miracle treatments, new cures. We hear about “Eat eggs” followed a few years later by “don’t eat eggs.” All of it gets confusing—quickly! I hear about alkaline water and think it must be the newest, greatest thing on earth! Only to hear a few months later to just drink spring water. UGH, if we can’t even agree on water, what are we supposed to do about exercise, medical choices and big decisions???

What do these terms even mean? What should I be doing?

As women, we tend to focus on others and not listen to our internal cues when we just don’t feel right. But it is confusing to figure out what you should do... You need a guide/resource. I know because I was there…

In my late 20’s I was a Physical Therapist working in an inpatient rehab hospital - a hospital for people who are stable enough to get out of the hospital and need physical therapy, but who are not ready for home. The work was challenging (transferring patients every 30 minutes) and rewarding (seeing people walk again), but I was struggling. I was so exhausted that I would have to pull over on the side of the road after work to take a nap because I couldn’t make it the 20 minutes home. My back was hurting more and I found it hard to run. My posture was changing in strange ways (my butt stuck out more, my arms went sideways instead of front to back). I was way too young to be dealing with these issues.

I am a 6th generation Texan who grew up learning how to tough it out, how to multi-task and how to take care of others. If my stomach hurt or I was sick, we went to the Doctor and got some kind of good tasting concoction/ antibiotic/prescription medicine. I went the traditional route for a solution.

So when I was an adult and had pain, I had other PTs work on me. I tried everything they taught me in school, but it just wasn’t working. My pain and low energy persisted, and when I looked in the medicine cabinet, I saw a lot of Advil, and Pepto-Bismol.

This is where the wheels of the bus basically fell off.

This era in my life launched me on a different road. One of alternative medicine, learning, and discovery. So, hang in there and let me share with you some options I have learned on this journey.

1. Learn to stretch every day. Taking an hour class is amazing, but even 5-10 min of self-care while waiting for the dryer to be finished is incredible. Stretching helps our connective tissue, releases some tension, and makes us feel better. When you slowly stretch (using time instead of force) and hold for at least 5 minutes, you get a much deeper stretch than what I refer to as “7th grade track stretching.” Leaning a leg on a track hurdle when you are 12 is great, but that probably has more to do with being 12, than doing a fabulous stretch. Take it slow, back off when it hurts, and just stay there.

2. Learn how to use essential oils (like lavender—we are not talking about canola or olive oil) to decrease inflammation and pain. Using oils can replace using over-the-counter medicines in many cases. This is all about using the best brand of oils, (top 2 brands are Young Living, and DoTerra) not the kinds found at the grocery store. The oils have many uses and are great for

relaxing, clarity, and decreasing pain. This is an entire new world of learning, but it comes in really handy to have an “all-natural first-aid kit” that can help with anything from bug bites that itch, to help stop bleeding.

I tend to think about our health as a game piece

stands if you happen to be chemically sensitive, or that you want to eat a certain way because you can feel it in your body (are you gluten free just to be trendy?). This is a great time to start realizing it is ok to put yourself first.

That you are worth the time, effort, and money to get better and heal your (fill in the blank—gut, body, mind).

If you need help in any of the areas above, please reach out to the team at Monarch Physical Therapy. We offer stretching classes, Young Living oil Raindrop sessions, and even have monthly memberships for Myofascial Release massage therapy. Let us know how we can be a resource to you, on your journey to wellness.

“This is a great time to start realizing it is ok to put yourself first.” in trivial pursuit--it’s not just one piece of the pie that wins the game. We need the ER, we need surgeons, but I am not always sure we need tons of medications. What if there was another option than those we are most familiar with?

Looking at the entire picture also helps make it easier to prioritize taking care of yourself. I don’t know about you, but it always seems easier to take care of the family, office, or dogs instead of making myself a priority and putting myself at the top of the list.

It can be a road less traveled, or at least one with more roadblocks and resistance. Not everyone under-

Monarch Physical Therapy 28604 IH 10 W, Suite 4 Boerne, Texas 78006

P: 830.431.0773 | F: 830.265.4053 www.MonarchPT.com /monarchphysicaltherapy

MAY/JUNE 2019

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LOVE YOUR WATER!

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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

Full Service Hill Country Caterer We specialize in YOUR kind of food.

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Give us a call for your next event!

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| EV EN TS |

KCW Mixer

THANKS TO ALL WHO ATTENDED! To celebrate the launch of Kendall County Woman at the 1st of the year, our staff along with dozens of our favorite clients enjoyed pizzas and drinks at Inferno’s Wood Fired Pizza right before their own grand opening. A tremendous time was enjoyed, the food was fantastic, and it was so great to be able to celebrate those small businesses (and the people that own them) that have helped us launch this publication and make it a success in a very short period of time!

Tessmer Law Firm

Solid Realty

Massage Matters

Edward Jones 48

KENDALL COUNTY WOMAN

Pet Styling by Mimi

Monarch Physical Therapy / From Scratch Farm

Kendall Woods Dental

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS IN BOERNE! Dr. Tamara Oesterling

• We can improve your aging dog’s function and quality of life • Natural supplements to compliment traditional pain medications • Individualized treatment plans

RELIEVING PAIN. RESTORING HOPE.

Geriatric Canine pain management requires comprehensive treatment options including nutritional considerations and anxiety your dog

• Non-Surgical therapy for cruciate ligament rupture • Laser therapy and acupuncture

may experience due to pain and discomfort.

w w w.heartofthehillsvet.com • 830-249-2147 • 117 Commerce Ave Boerne, TX 78006 MAY/JUNE 2019

49

Considering Selling?

Spring is one of the best times to list!

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| P ROF ILE |

Designing Your Life

by Benjamin D. Schooley

HOW ONE WOMAN TURNED HER PASSION FOR INTERIOR DESIGN INTO A CAREER

52

KENDALL COUNTY WOMAN

F

or Susan Lyman-Krom, owner of Epic Flooring, design and the aesthetic of your home has been her passion for almost 30 years, with 25 years of operation happening right here in Boerne.

With her husband Kurt as her partner in the business, she has worked tirelessly to provide her customers with the service and dedication they want, while fighting the “big box” stores for your business.

After growing up on the Texas Coast, Susan struck out to pursue a nursing career at Del Mar College but moved quickly to University of Texas as a Psychology major. However, she was quickly

introduced to interior design in ‘92 while working in the window fashion industry, and she knew what she needed to do next.

“I started Epic Designs shortly after I began working in Corpus. I was doing windows, bedspreads, pillows, custom accessories for homes and flooring as well. But mainly I was doing custom treatments and moved here to Boerne in ‘94 as Epic Designs. I was brand new in town and ran a little studio out of my home.”

The decision of moving to Boerne was also a rather simple decision for Kurt and Susan. She explains, “Our kids were going to school in Waring, and my husband was offered an territory between

San Antonio and Austin and we didn’t want to live in the big city, so one day we just drove through to check out Boerne and I said if I ever wanted to move anywhere, this is where I’d want to live. We’ve been here ever since!”

As times have changed, so have Susan’s offerings at her business. She continues, “I did the broad array of services for 10 years, and 15 years ago, I changed things to focus more on the flooring. I still do the shutters and some of the other things, but I moved mainly into the flooring and counter tops – I have subs that can still do everything, but we focus more on the flooring.” With that, Epic Designs became Epic Flooring and Susan doubled down on her focus for providing high level service for her clients. She explains, “It just made more sense economically to just focus on the flooring.

I would spend hours and hours designing and creating a custom treatment for their windows, and they would frequently take my ideas and do it themselves. I got burned out on that a bit and decided to focus more on the flooring.

There were only 4000 people in this town at that time, and for a workflow and fabrication issue, we stuck to the flooring.”

With 25+ years here in town, Susan and Kurt have certainly seen the growth around town, and it has impacted them both professionally and personally. “It’s been blessed and steady at Epic Designs.

With the growth in Boerne, my business has grown.

I miss the ambiance and quaintness of the small town that Boerne used to be, but the growth as a business has been great. When we moved from the 900 square feet of our original studio on the north end to my current location, our business has doubled.”

But the roots of life run deep. Susan continues, “It’s been so great to be part of this community. I have formed numerous friendships with clients, and that’s not always normal. I’ve done a ton of builder work, but we’ve predominantly been working with clients and remodels and that’s because the one-on-

set up presentations, meets with vendors when I can’t...he’s got a vested interest and so it’s been wonderful.”

Susan concludes, “I have no interest in retiring at this point in my life and am enjoying the stability of the business. I have been working for so long at this and still have a lot of energy for what I do and have a passion for meeting my customers and working with them.”

“I have formed numerous friendships with clients, and that’s not always normal.” one with the customer is so important to me.”

The Kroms as a couple are also appreciative of the relationship that they share both professionally and personally. Susan looks at Kurt and continues, “My husband and I keep to ourselves during the day because we have to go home and live with each other! He’s got my back; it’s allowed me more flexibility to manage the store. He’s my admin and he keeps all of our pricing current with all of our vendors, he’ll run samples to the clients, help me

EPIC FLOORING Susan Lyman-Krom 801 N. Main St, Suite A Boerne 830.249.0915

MAY/JUNE 2019

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McRae Clinic CLOSURE NOTICE After 30 years of practicing medicine in Boerne, friend and long-term client Dr. Liz McRae has sold the private practice portion of her business in order to focus more on the spa and aesthetic side of her business.

Her letter to her patients is to the right. We wish her nothing but the very best as she transitions into a new chapter, and much success ahead!

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KENDALL COUNTY WOMAN

Elizabeth T. McRae M.D. 117 S. Saunders Boerne TX 78006 830-249-2600 Fax: 830-249-2635

Dear Kendall County Women, It is with mixed emotions that I am announcing the closure of my Internal Medicine Practice effective September 30, 2019. It has been my great pleasure over the last 30 years to serve in this amazing Hill Country Community and all of my wonderful patients. However, after much thought, consideration and prayer, I feel that this season of my life is coming to a close. This decision will allow me more time with my family to enjoy the things I love outside of Medicine.

Although I will no longer be in my Internal Medicine Practice, I will still contribute to the community and meet patient’s aesthetic needs through my Medical Laser Practice, McRae MD Medical Laser Spa.

I am extremely grateful to have been afforded the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others as well as the community. I have greatly valued our relationship and thank each of you for your loyalty over the many years.

We will continue to treat patients for medical needs through August 30th, 2019. I hope this allows for everyone to get the medications they need and obtain a copy of their medical records while looking for a new physician. The office will be open the month of September to close out business aspects of the closing. After September 30th, you can still reach the office for records by submitting the request via mail.

Please contact the office with any questions or concerns. I wish each and every one of you all the best for continued success and good health.

Blessings, Elizabeth McRae, MD, FACP

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

Ever Argue With

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

lifestyle

THE YOU’VE HOPED FOR.

Esperanza, Spanish for “hope”, is Boerne's first true master-planned

community. Thoughtfully conceived and artfully designed, Esperanza embodies everything you’ve hoped for in the place you call home. Featuring a walkable Boerne ISD elementary school, over 350 acres of open space and parks, and an exclusive Residents’ Club with resort pool, lazy river and 24-hour fitness center, Esperanza delivers the Hill Country lifestyle you've been waiting for.

MyEsperanza.com

New Homes $280s to $1 Million

| DINING |

DINE IN COMFORT

Comfort, Texas is fast becoming a bustling hub of commerce. No, it’s not nearly as busy as Boerne yet, but that’s a good thing perhaps. However, with the ever-increasing traffic, Comfort has really expanded its options for visitors and is now a very quaint and enjoyable little town to spend an afternoon. As summer gets into full gear, we’d encourage you to stop by one of these great little restaurants below. Enjoy some shopping, a glass of wine, and a wonderful lunch on a fine Saturday afternoon soon.

HIGH’S CAFE & STORE High’s has it all. Shop their retail section of whimsies for the home and garden as well as their books and cards. Enjoy the full espresso bar and the large selection of wine/ beers. Serving both breakfast and lunch, their menu is eclectic, fresh, completely home-made...and out of this world. From soups to salads to sandwiches and everything in between, this is a “must-hit” restaurant.

THE WANDER’N CALF ESPRESSO BAR & BAKERY

www.HighsCafeAndStore.com

Just as their name implies, this is a premier spot to stop off for some world class coffee or espresso and enjoy freshly baked goodies. However, they also serve breakfast all day and feature a great little lunch menu of fresh light sandwiches. Take a break from the shopping, catch up with a friend over a great cup of Joe, and sample some wonderfully fresh and delicious bites. www.WandernCalf.com

COMFORT PIZZA Not the most original name, but the pizza is world class. Located right at the corner of 8th and High Streets (prime location), walk up to the counter of the old gas station that’s been converted, place your order, grab a craft brew or a glass of wine, and enjoy some light music at the picnic tables scattered about. Wood-fired pizzas with every topping imaginable will leave you satisfied. You can even BYOB. www.Facebook.com/ComfortPizza

814 A TEXAS BISTRO 814 doesn’t serve lunch, but that’s ok. Coordinate some reservations (recommended) and savor some seriously exquisite dining in one of Comfort’s most historic buildings. Chef Kuykendall has been behind the grill since Day 1, and creates a menu that changes weekly. If a beautifully relaxed evening is on your to-do list, look no further. www.814TexasBistro.com MAY/JUNE 2019

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| EV EN TS |

CANDY MAKING AND THE SCIENCE BEHIND IT Students will create, decorate and learn the science behind many fun and delicious treats! Activities include experimenting with various confections, creating edible art, learning the history of familiar and unfamiliar treats, candy crafts, games and a lot of practice making and tasting!

2019 SUMMER

CAMPS

ARKIDTECT SUPER STRUCTURES Test materials, meet design constraints, and dream up amazing structures using a variety of different materials. Learn about Greek architecture, design a column, design a temple and test for strength, create a LEGO structure that incorporates elements of architecture, build an earthquake-proof building, design a super cool straw roller coaster, and much much more!

LEGO ENGINEERING As we come up to the end of the school year, many moms might be stressing about finding activities for their kids throughout the summer. Sure, there will be lots of video game time and perhaps a summer camp, but there are many, many options out there for busy moms to entertain their kids and buy themselves a little free time to handle their own errands and responsibilities.

The City of Boerne Parks and Rec Department has options for everything from LEGO classes to nature camps for kids this summer. Check out some of the options here and for the full listing and to sign up, visit: https://www.ci.boerne.tx.us/760/Summer-Camps

Gear up your engineering skills as we complete a variety of challenges using 10,000+ LEGO pieces! Students will apply real-world concepts in engineering, physics, and architecture through various projects while exploring simple machines, energy, buoyancy, and balance.

BRICKS, BOTS, AND BEAKERS This camp rotates STEM based classes between engineering concepts through Bricks- LEGO Education sets, multiple team challenges, and WeDo sets; Bots- robotic programming with Blue Bot, Chip, Lunar Bot, Snap Circuits, and more; Beakers- chemistry and physical science experiments guaranteed to excite young minds!

JURASSIC JAMBOREE Junior paleontologist will love this camp! Create fossils and coprolites, participate in a dinosaur dig, plus measure and compare different types of dinosaurs. Camp also includes dinosaur themed LEGO building challenges and dinosaur crafts, games and songs.

TGA PREMIER JUNIOR GOLF SUMMER This camp is specifically designed for children and builds up the educational concepts they are learning in the class room. We provide all the equipment and training materials, so children of all skill levels have the chance to come out 58

KENDALL COUNTY WOMAN

S E N I O R | FA M I LY | W E D D I N G | C O R P O R AT E www.westvita.com | 1015 N. School St., Boerne | 830.431.1157

NOW ACCEPTING

TRICARE! 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

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.

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

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

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