January 2013 Ellis County Living Magazine by Ellis County Living Magazine

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Living HOME OF THE YEAR 2013

Your GATEWAY to HOMETOWN service and expertise

www.TheSchmidtGrp.com When you are looking for hometown service backed by expert, local professionals, turn to The Schmidt Group at Gateway Mortgage. Their Waxahachie office has over 90 years’ experience in the mortgage industry and best of all, they live and work right here in ELLIS COUNTY. The Schmidt Group promises you: • A community first approach • Local underwriting and reliable closings • Service for a lifetime So whether you are purchasing a new home, considering refinancing or even seeking access to your home’s equity, they have the right solution to meet nearly any mortgage need.

Your Local Mortgage Team JEFF SCHMIDT - 817.681.7897 Regional Manager, RMLO 91368

TOM KER - 972.365.7022 Senior Loan Officer, RMLO 356892

NICK HESTER - 469.855.9262 Senior Loan Officer, RMLO 338108

TERRY WOOTEN - 214.949.9285 Senior Loan Officer, RMLO 224831

Office: 972.937.2200 | 100 Executive Court #3 | Waxahachie, TX 75165

Gateway Mortgage Group, LLC NMLS 7233

QUALITY Installation, Repair, and Maintenance for your ROOF.

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL

ROOFING SERVICES:

• Roof inspections, replacement, repair and maintenance • Skylight repair and installation • Gutter and downspout repair/replacement • Exterior siding, fascia and sofﬁt • Ventilation: Ridge-vent, electric and solar power vents, wind turbines, box and sofﬁt vents • Deck/Fence additions, repair and maintenance

O: (214)564-5046 F: (817)860-2931 INFO@DUNCANROOFINGCONCEPTS.COM

WWW . DU N CANROOFI NGCONCEPT S .C OM

E R A E W L A R E N E G R U YO . . . E R O ST

FEED:

N, CAT, DOG BIRD, FISH, CHICKE CATTLE... GOAT, PIG, HORSE,

HOME DECOR:

TRY CHIC RUSTIC AND COUN , YARD ART, CANDLES, FRAMES GS, GIFTS, CROSSES, PAINTIN BLE WARE... WINE GLASSES, TA

SOOKIE SOOKIE

JEWELRY & WINE CORKS

50% OFF

AREL: JEWELRY & APPRL , CINCH,

L GI GYPSY SOULE, CRUE OKIE... SILVERADO, SOOKIESO

HARDWARE:

S, LOCKS, KEYS, TOOL ER TOOLS, HAND TOOLS, POW PES, POCKET KNIVES, RO CHAINS. TACK...

SHOES ALWAYS 15% OFF

PLUS A GYPSY SOULE TOTE BAG

GOURMET:

FOODS, JELLIES, COMFORT R, COOKBOOKS... PECAN PIE IN A JA

EN , LAWN AND GARD

LARGE SELECTION OF CLEANING SUPPLIES LODGE COOKWARE

FENCING TS ORGANIC PRODUC VET SUPPLIES LODGE COOKWARE

THE BOYCE FEED & GRAIN CORPORATION

441 S. COLLEGE I WAXAHACHIE, TEXAS I 972-937-1541

4 BLOCKS SOUTH OF THE COURTHOUSE WWW.BOYCEFEED.COM

S SALE AFTER CHRISTMA

TABLE OF CONTENTS 38

TABLE OF CONTENTS

HOME OF THE YEAR: THE HOUSE THAT BUILT ME

2013

22 12

CHECK OUT THE LATEST IN LOCAL FASHION

FASHION Local Fashion 12 Wear This Now: Dress Your Body Type 14 Q&A with Amber Thompson 18

LIFE & STYLE From the Home Bar of... 20 2013 Books to Movies 22 Recipes from the Husted Home 24 Travel: The Dominican Republic 26 A Mother’s Tale: One Million Ways 28 History in the Making 30 Nonproﬁ t: Start Something 34

JANUARY FEBRUARY HOME & GARDEN Home of the Year: The Harper Home 38 Smart House 44 I Can See Clearly Now 46 Built to Last 48 January/February Plants 52

MEDICAL Too Young to Diet 54 Winter Skin Woes 56 Under Pressure 62 Do You Poop Out at Parties? 64 Resolve to Make a Fresh Start 66 Cindy Burch: Dream Tripping 68

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013

2013 BOOKS TO MOVIES

Living ELLIS COUNTY

MAGAZINE

VOLUME 9 ISSUE 1 PUBLISHER CINDY CAMP EXECUTIVE CREATIVE DIRECTOR JENNIFER KEMP EDITOR KATHRYN KEMP ASSOCIATE CREATIVE DIRECTOR LINDSEY KEENEY ADVERTISING PAMELA MCCRORY BRITTANY HUSTED CFO SUSAN KOSORIS INTERN MARC KEMP

Happy New Year FROM THE STAFF AT

LIVING MAGAZINE!

New Year, New Me! I always look at this month as a time to start fresh on the things I want to do more of (travel) and less of (clean). I believe the motto goes: When God asks me why my home wasn’t cleaner, I will reply, “I was too busy playing with my child!” CINDY CAMP, PUBLISHER

My 2013 To-Do List: Learn to play an entire song on the piano, take my vitamins regularly, eat french fries in France, start playing tennis again, become scubaﬁ ed, actually ﬁ nish an entire to-do list, start training to become an astronaut and eat more chicken! JENNIFER KEMP, EXECUTIVE ART DIRECTOR I have so many things I want to do...of course I want to lose weight and be healthier. This year, I also plan on becoming an “extreme couponer” as well as a Big Sister with Big Brothers Big Sisters, so I can mentor a child who needs it. KATHRYN KEMP, EDITOR

A special thanks to all of our contributing writers.

Ellis County Living Magazine is published bi-monthly by ECL Media, Inc.© using only environmentally friendly ink. Copyright 2012, ECL Media, Inc.© All rights reserved. For advertising information, please contact Ellis County Living Magazine at 972.935.0938 or info@living-magazine.com.

With 13 being my favorite number, 2013 should be a fabulous year for me! I don’t really make resolutions because I always seem to fail - however, my one true wish each and every year is for God to keep us close by his side....there is simply nothing more important. PAMELA MCCRORY, ADVERTISING REP My New Year’s resolution is to eat healthier. That means removing the candy stash from my ofﬁ ce! BRITTANY HUSTED, ADVERTISING REP

We are proud members of the Waxahachie, Ennis, Midlothian and Red Oak Chambers of Commerce. No portion of Ellis County Living Magazine shall be reprinted in any other publication without permission. The views expressed herein should not be construed as medical advice. Please consult your physician.

Guarantee you’ll receive Ellis County Living Magazine by subscribing today!

Go to www.living-magazine.com and click on “subscriptions.”

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013

I plan to spend time with my growing family and our extended family, and to travel as much as possible especially to visit Justin in Haiti! SUSAN KOSORIS, CFO

LINDSEY KEENEY is the newest member of the Living Magazine staff and works hard as associate creative director. She grew up in Ennis and graduated from A&M University with a degree in telecommunication media studies. This year, she resolves to eat healthier and recycle more. COVER PHOTO BY BILL HURST STAFF PHOTOS TAKEN BY MARIE Q PHOTOGRAPHY

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

There’s no place like HOME. Don’t waste your time and money in the big city when the best deals are right in your own backyard. Come and see for yourself. You won’t be disappointed. Buying a new car can be overwhelming. With such a big decision, your head fills with endless questions. How can I find the perfect fit for me? Am I getting the best price out there? Can I trust the dealer to not rip me off? Well the new management team at Waxahachie Autoplex is here to help. With their hometown mindset (and small-town expenses), the team is ready and able to offer you the best prices around – without playing games. Any time you are tasked with creating a positive change on a large scale like at the Autoplex, you first have to assess the current climate with both employees and customers, previous and current. This is exactly what Wes Spence did when he was brought in to take over the role of general manager/managing partner. After a week or so of diving in

and speaking with staff and customers on the showroom floors, visiting with different customers at length and reading several emails over the last year from unhappy customers, Wes realized first and foremost he needed to focus on the customer experience at Waxahachie Autoplex. Whether they were sales or service customers, whether they were calling in or contacting the team via the Internet, Wes knew gaining the trust of the community and improving the overall experience of dealing with the Autoplex as a whole was a must. With this understanding, Wes knew he had to start with an entirely new management team, one that understands the importance of customer service and has a proven record in the industry of accomplishing this approach at other locations. Of course some

changes were made internally, but a big effort was made to retain as many employees as possible. Wes also saw that a shift to focusing more on what the company could do for the community was imperative. From the implementation of the $500 for every home Indian touchdown, which ultimately paid out $12,500 for the year, to spending money to have a local band-made-big, “The Dallahachie Boys,” perform at the Grand Re-Opening. The idea was simple: take care of our home area of Ennis, Navarro, Johnson, and Hill Counties. And with the best prices and great customer service, the team at the Autoplex knows people in other surrounding areas will realize the extra 15 minute drive is well worth it to save $1500 dollars on a car.

VIP High-Line Pre-Owned

CarFinder Service

The VIP High-Line Pre-Owned CarFinder Service at Waxahachie Autoplex is something everyone looking for a pre-owned vehicle can take advantage of by using the Autoplex’s resources to find their dream car, no matter the make. Wes Spence personally supervises this effort to ensure everything is done to create the best experience while finding you the best vehicle available. Wes runs this part of the operation personally because he loves the challenge of finding that perfect vehicle for the customer who does not have several weeks to spend on the Internet or driving to different lots looking for the proverbial needle in a haystack. He doesn’t do it because it’s easy, he does it because he is passionate about all vehicles and truly loves to be able to provide that dream vehicle to whoever needs his help.

Wes Spence, GENERAL MANAGER

Buying a car isn’t always a wonderful experience. As the new General Manager at Waxahachie Autoplex, it’s my job to change that perception. My new sales/service team and I are developing a new approach to getting our valued customers into the right car for the right price without any hassle or extended delay. So you ask how? We are going to get in touch with our customers and the community. The Autoplex is going to start investing in the local community. We have already started by investing in local education as well as local varsity sports programs. This will only increase as we continue to restructure. This community has invested in us for so many years and now it’s our turn.

Quick Lane In their effort to create an unbeatable customer service experience, Waxahachie Autoplex has opened a Quick Lane in order to quickly service vehicles needing basic maintenance. In about 20 minutes, and for just $20, taxes and fees included, you can get an oil change and be on your way with the knowledge that everything was performed by certified technicians. And if you have about 45 minutes to spare, they also offer a carwash/ oil change package for just $32 dollars.

Our pledge at Waxahachie Autoplex is to incorporate change based on the needs of you, our customers. We know that without our customers we could not survive. Thank you for taking time to read this letter and please feel free to submit any comments and suggestions directly to myself or one of the staff at Waxahachie Autoplex. -Wes Spence, General Manager

Taking Care of You and Your Community

{ AROUND TOWN { A lot is happening in Ellis County...

EDITOR’S NOTE Well if you’re reading this, it looks like the world didn’t end on December 21 after all. Phew! It also means 2013 has arrived, along with the promise that comes with a new year. Will this be the year you keep your resolutions? To start it off right, we bring you the Home of the Year issue, filled with tips and updates on everything that goes into owning a home. We’ve got articles about the latest in home security, energy-efficient replacement windows and even tips on restoring an old home. Don’t miss the great pictures starting on page 38 of this year’s Home of the Year, the Harper Home. We also have Valentine’s Day coming up, so watch for great gift and date ideas. Plus, there are tips on keeping New Year’s resolutions, solving winter skin issues, traveling to the Dominican Republic, and much more. Get ready for some good reading! This year, I plan to continue to work hard and present to you a publication we can all be proud of. As always, if you have any ideas, questions, comments or concerns, email me at kathryn@livingmagazine.com.

RUN FOR THEIR LIVES 5K

WAXAHACHIE CHAMBER FUN BUNCH

SATURDAY, JANUARY 19

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 21 – 4 to 5:30 p.m.

9 a.m. to 12 p.m. 400 South Grand Ave. Waxahachie Come join the Texas Baptist Home’s Adoption Department as they raise funds and awareness for Post-Adoption Services. Help provide assistance to those families! Registration: $30 (includes event T-shirt) Watch website for registration information. Call 972.937.1321 for more.

First Financial and Keller Williams

MOONLIGHT AND MAGNOLIAS BY RON HUTCHINSON

WAXAHACHIE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BANQUET

FEBRUARY 7-24

Ennis Public Theatre Moonlight and Magnolias has been called a “hyperventilating comedy.” It is the story of how producer David O. Selznick, confronted with a screenplay for Gone with the Wind that just didn’t work, commandeers screenwriter Ben Hecht, steals director Victor Fleming from the set of The Wizard of Oz, and locks the doors to his office. Over five days on a diet of bananas and peanuts, the three fashioned a new screenplay for one of the most successful and beloved films of all time. Call 972-878-7529 or purchase tickets at ennispublictheatre.com.

ENNIS CZECH MUSIC FESTIVAL SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 9 1:30 to 11:30 p.m.

Sokol Activity Center Listen and dance to six bands for just $7 per person. Come on out and let’s party!

BOWL FOR KIDS SAKE SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 23

11 a.m to 3 p.m. Hilltop Super Bowl 2010 W. Business 287, Waxahachie For a team packet or more information visit www.bowlforkidssake.org then click on the Waxahachie location, or contact Diana Phillips at 972-573-2420 or dphillips@ bbbstx.org.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 28

Waxahachie Civic Center

CHILDREN’S COAT/SHOE DRIVE BY THE FIRST GRADERS OF JA VITOSKY

THROUGHOUT JANUARY

Claire Lynn 222 Henderson St., Midlothian The JA Vitosky first graders are working on a school project to benefit the Midlothian community. In conjunction with these students, Claire Lynn is collecting new and gently used (youth size) coats and shoes through the end of January. Please drop off your donation to the Claire Lynn store in

Midlothian. Call 972-723-2251 for more details.

Happy New Year!

For updates and chances to win free stuff, be sure to “like” us on Facebook and visit our blog at www.living-magazine.com. Do you have an event that you want everyone to know about? Send an e-mail to: EDITOR@LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013

WAXAHACHIE

Members of the Waxahachie Downtown Merchants Association: SINCE 1850

A-Transportation Limousine Serv Buffalo Creek Cowgirls

JUNK IN THE TRUNK SATURDAY, JANUARY 12 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Historic Downtown Waxahachie Square Waxahachie’s Junk in the Trunk is a community-wide resale event. Businesses and residents come and sell your treasures around the courthouse square!

Catfish Plantation

THE LIGHTS OF ELLIS COUNTY

MARTIN LUTHER KING DAY PARADE

THURSDAY, JANUARY 17 4 - 8 p.m. Featuring available historic properties for sale. Citizens, media representatives and the real estate community are all invited to this evening whereby we will showcase the beautiful Ellis County Courthouse with the permanent lighting of the trees surrounding it. Live music by Eddie Irving and the Classic Swing Band and food from The Dove’s Nest.

MONDAY, JANUARY 21 Begins in Downtown Waxahachie

Cherics Antiques

MARDI GRAS ON THE SQUARE & PARADE

Crafty Scrapper

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 9 Hosted by College Street Pub. Enjoy food, fun, festivities and a parade – all in downtown Waxahachie.

Ellis County Living Magazine

Check It Out Citizens National Bank of Texas



Downtown SHOPPING

College Street Restaurant & Pub Dan’s Maintenance Service Ellis County Museum FRESH at Villa Flora Gingerbread Antique Mall Glenn’s Warehouse Carpet Gran’s Antiques Happy’s Furnshings Inc KBEC Radio Martha Nell’s Clothes Tree Maxwell Jewelry

OLD TOWN VILLAGE ANTIQUES & UNIQUES Old, new and artistically created, you will find something beautiful in every aisle at Old Town Village. Come search for antiques, collectibles, shabby chic decor, vintage finds, books, jewelry, repurposed treasures and much more! 307 S. Rogers St. Waxahachie 972.938.9515 OldTownVillageAntiques.com

Mosaic Madness Napa Auto Parts/Pool Supplies Old Town Villiage Antiques

CHECK IT OUT

Pearman Oil & LP Gas Inc

Does your room need a re-do? Are you ready to start that DIY project you’ve been dreaming of? Come check out the latest fabrics and accessories and let Michele Hampton help you design, transform and re-decorate your home from beginning to end.

Plain Jane & Co.

212 S. Rogers St. Waxahachie 972.938.2403

CheckItOutFabrics.net

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON ALL OF THE FUN THINGS GOING ON IN DOWNTOWN WAXAHACHIE, VISIT

W W W. D OW N TOW N WA X A H AC H I E .CO M

Plato Loco Café & Cantina Salon Friends The Boyce Feed & Grain Corp The Dove’s Nest Restaurant Tina Bohlman Gallery Tire Town

FREGEarage

Parking

ﬀerson son and Je er of Jack rn co e th at

FASHION

Baby, It’s C

SHIRT, Plain Jane $28.99 JACKET, Briarpatch $59 PANTS, Chic Boutique $29.95 SHOES, Chic Boutique $22.95 SCARF, The Dove’s Nest $16.95 BRACELETS, Turquoise Haven $18 BRIGHTON EARRINGS, Briarpatch $20

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013

JACKET, Chic Boutique $29.95 DRESS, Briarpatch $28.95 SHOES, Chic Boutique $49.95 SCARF, Plain Jane $18.99 EARRINGS, Turquoise Haven $8 BRACELET, Chic Boutique $17.95 RING, Turquoise Haven $12

TUNIC, Chic Boutique $34.95 LEGGINGS, Chic Boutique $15.95 JACKET, Briarpatch $55 SHOES, Chic Boutique $36.95 SCARF, The Dove’s Nest $16.95 NECKLACE, Buffalo Creek Cowgirls $18.99 BRACELET, Plain Jane $12.99

Cold Outside

SHIRT, Chic Boutique $27.95 MISS ME JEANS, Buffalo Creek Cowgirls $99 BOOTS, Chic Boutique $35 SCARF, Plain Jane $14.99 BRIGHTON PURSE, Briarpatch $120 NECKLACE, The Dove’s Nest $12.95 BRACELET, Chic Boutique $17.95

JACKET, Briarpatch $55 DRESS, Briarpatch $59.95 BOOTS, Buffalo Creek Cowgirls $250 PURSE, The Dove’s Nest $42.95 EARRINGS, Plain Jane $14.99 NECKLACE, The Dove’s Nest $36.95 BRACELET, Plain Jane $12.99

JACKET, Briarpatch $55 SHIRT, Briarpatch $64 MISS ME JEANS, Briarpatch $88 SHOES, Chic Boutique $45.95 BRACELETS, Turquoise Haven $10 PURSE, Chic Boutique $109.95 EARRINGS, Plain Jane $14.99 LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013

FASHION

e p y t y d o b r u o y Dressing for

{ SHOPPING }

KNOW THYSELF What Body Type Are You, Anyway?

If you’ve ever picked up a women’s magazine, you’re probably familiar with the different body shapes.

a ReFReSHeR: PEAR-SHAPED women tend to be bigger on the bottom than on top. You’re mainly a thigh and butt girl.

APPLE-SHAPED women carry weight around their middle with proportionately smaller hips and thighs. You may also struggle to cover a mufﬁn top, which is kind of a cute name for a ﬂabby belly that peeks out over the top of your pants.

HOURGLASS is exactly what it sounds like. Think marilyn monroe. You’ve got breasts, a deﬁned waist and proportioned butt and hips.

RECTANGLE means you’re straight up and down—maybe you’re thin with very few curves. if you do happen to gain weight, it’s not very noticeable, because the fat is distributed evenly on your frame.

If You’re An

Apple l ooK F oR:

» Boot-cut or ﬂare jeans » v -necks » Single-button jackets » non-skimp y tanks » Wrap tops » empire or a-line dresses » Sleeveless » Slim skirts » Tailored blazers » Slim belts

g a zine. c om // J anU aR Y-FeBRUaR Y 2013

Hourglass

av oiD:

» lo w-rise jeans » cr ew necks » Bulky sweaters » Rufﬂes » Boxy jackets » Body-conscious styles » cap slee ves » Full skirts » Shoulder pads » Wide belts

JacKeT Briarpatch RocK Reviv al JeanS chic Bou TanK Briarpatch living-ma

If You’re An

tique

l ooK F oR:

» Waist-deﬁning belts » Tops that are nipped at the waist » Scoop-neck tops and v neck tops » Straight-leg or slightly ﬂared pants » Sheath dresses » Pencil skirts

av oiD:

» Baggy pants and tops » Pleats or bulky pockets on the hip » Tops with big prints or rufﬂes » High-waist pants » High necklines » mini-skirts ToP Plain Jane miS S me JeanS Buffalo cr eek co wgirls BRigHT on PURSe Briarpatch

If You’re

Petite l ooK F oR:

» a monochrome look to appear taller » Fitted clothing » v ertical lines » v -necks » High heels c o a T merle norman miS S me JeanS Buffalo cr eek co wgirls HeelS chic Bou tique

av oiD:

» Separates » Bulky sweaters » Big prints » cr ew necks » gladiator sandals

living-ma

g a zine. c om // J AN UA RY-FEBRUA RY 2013

FASHION

e p y t y d o b r u o y Dressing for Find This Article

{ SHOPPING }

and More Helpful Tips Here!

KNOW THYSELF (CONT.)

WEAR THIS NOW

If You’re A

Pear LOOK FOR:

» » » »

Drapey fabrics Puffy sleeves Wide necklines Shoulder details like epaulets Wrap dresses Print tops A-line dresses and skirts Boot-cut or wide-leg jeans

Rectangle AVOID:

» Shiny fabrics and sequins on your lower half » Prints on your lower half » Short tops » Oversized blazers » Mini-skirts » Baggy tops » Pencil skirts » High-waist pants

TOP Turquoise Haven MISS ME JEANS Buffalo Creek Cowgirls BRACELETS Chic Boutique

LOOK FOR:

AVOID:

» Higher necklines » Baggy tops like crew, polo, (unless you’re mandarin and wearing them halter tops with a belt or » Tops with bust some other rufﬂ es, ruching, detailing) breast pockets and » Clingy tops pleating » Cuffed tops » Belted jackets, » Cuffed pants trenches and coats » Low necklines » Straight sheath » Boyfriend dresses and shirt jeans dresses » Pencil skirts » Boot-cut and cigaCOAT Briarpatch rette pant shapes SHIRT Turquoise Haven » Full skirts

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013

ROCK REVIVAL JEANS Chic Boutique

If You’re

Plus Size LOOK FOR:

» » » »

Wrap tops Print tunics A-line skirts Platform heels

AVOID:

» Huge prints » Boxy jackets » Oversized clothing » Empire dresses DRESS Plain Jane LEGGINGS Briarpatch SCARF Chic Boutique

From, Michelle Madhok, founder of SHEFINDS MEDIA and publisher of sheﬁ nds.com, Wear This Now is a full guide offering tips on what to wear and how to shop for EVERY occasion.

living-magazine.com // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013

FASHION { BEAUTY }

Q&A What fires you up?

Friday night football games, a good cup of coffee or tea, quiet time, art, the change of seasons, the sounds of nature, long walks, M&Ms, being with children and new makeup, to name a few.

You’re not wearing much makeup. Why?

I’m a big fan of effortless style in makeup, wardrobe, hair, etc. Too much makeup is distracting so I prefer to keep it low-key most of the time. I feel simplicity allows people to see your authentic self.

What’s the best tip you’ve ever gotten from a friend? A dear friend introduced me to moleskin. It’s a heavy cotton tape with one soft side and one sticky side used to prevent blisters. The stuff is a lifesaver when breaking in new shoes!

What’s the one product you can’t live without?

I’m fair-skinned, so I never leave without my SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion Sunscreen. It has a slight tint so it also helps to even my skin tone.

WhatÕ s your

best makeup

TIP?

BY AMBER THOMPSON

With a MakeuP Artist How do you take care of your skin?

Do you follow trends?

Girl’s best friend mascara or lipstick?

Favorite beauty quotes?

In addition to regular cleansing and moisturizing, I use an antioxidant serum to prevent damage in the daytime and retinol to correct skin issues at night. I also mask on the weekends and get monthly facials.

That’s a tough one but I have to go with lipstick. A quick swipe of lipstick can instantly make you look more put together. A new lipstick is a great pick-me-up, too.

Name your splurge and steal.

Crème de la Mer moisturizer and L’Oreal Voluminous Mascara

When did you fall in love with makeup?

I was about 5 years old when Mom and Dad left me with my aunt while they went to a Rolling Stones concert. Dad was horrified when they came home to their baby girl wearing frosty blue eye shadow and red lipstick. From that day forward, I have been fascinated with makeup.

How did you learn to do makeup?

Like any artist – trial and error. I’d like to thank my brothers and high school friends for being my guinea pigs. Since then, I’ve attended many seminars and workshops to learn new techniques and styles. I am always learning and evolving.

If you drop a compact of eye shadow or face powder and it shatters into a million pieces, it can be repaired! Gather the crumbles and place them back in the compact. Then saturate cotton rounds with rubbing alcohol and press firmly on the crumbles. They will meld together and create a new solid piece.

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013

No. As a bridal makeup artist, especially, I think it’s important to keep makeup classic. Focus on naturally enhancing your features instead of the next collection of lime green shadow and fuchsia lipstick. “We are ladies, not chickens. We tweeze our brows, we don’t pluck them.” –my grandmother

What might people be surprised to learn about you? Most people think I am very poised and proper, but I have a silly side. I like to prank people (though I am terrible at it) and watch slapstick comedy.

Who inspires you?

I’m inspired by people who are comfortable in their own skin.

What do you think is they key to being comfortable in your own skin?

I think it starts with realizing that you were perfectly made. There is no person better at being you than YOU. I heard once, “comparison is the thief of joy.” How true is that?

AMBER is a licensed esthetician and makeup artist with more than 10 years’ experience in the beauty industry. She provides services for Ellis County brides and manages The Spa at Equinox in north Dallas. Contact her at amber@ amberthompsonmakeup.com.

living-magazine.com // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013

{ FROM THE BAR OF...

LIFE & STYLE

Want a drink but don’t feel like braving the cold? Here are some recipes from the home bars of a few Ellis County residents. Cheers!

{

{ DRINKS }

Howard Hobbs

HOWARD’S TOE-TINGLING RITA 1/2 part premium orange liqueur 3 parts jose cuervo mix (or your favorite) 1 part of your favorite tequila Mix and pour into a slated rim glass. You can’t purchase Controy liqueur, Howard’s first choice, in the states. It’s only sold in Mexico, so he stocks up any time he goes!

Jessica French

CHAMPAGNE NOIR 1/2 ounce cognac 1/2 ounce framboise 1/2 ounce Chambord 5 ounces brut champagne 3 fresh raspberries Jessica shared this with us on Facebook and we think it sounds very intriguing! Like us on Facebook and let us know what you think!

Good substitutes:

03 Premium Orange Liqueur, Cointreau or Patron Citronge.

Hal & Kathy Sparrow

ITALIAN SPRITZ Prosecco (Italian sparkling wine) A splash of Aperol (Italian aperitivo that’s bitter and bright orange in color) Very refreshing drink!

HalÕ s favorite drink:

Gin with tonic and slices of cucumber.

Dessert with a twist! Meagan Camp

TEQUILA AND LIME SORBET 1 cup sugar 1 cup water 1/2 cup lime juice Tequila

Make a simple syrup by combining the sugar and water over medium heat, stirring until sugar is dissolved. Take off heat, add the lime juice and let steep for 30 minutes. Put in container and let cool for 4 hours or longer. Set up ice cream or sorbet maker and add chilled lime base then churn for 20 minutes. Chill after churning until ready to serve. I like to take 1 scoop and pour 1 shot of tequila over top and serve in a small glass. This is a great drink for a party. I set the sorbet in a glass container over ice and let the guests serve themselves. It also makes a more adult-friendly dessert!

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013

living-magazine.com // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013

LIFE & STYLE

2013

BOOKS S E I V O M

SAFE HAVEN

{ BOOKS } BY KATHRYN KEMP

Be sure to read these books before they make their silver screen debuts later this year!

THE WONDERFUL WIZARD OF OZ

THE HOST

By L. Frank Baum

NOTEWORTHY CAST: Julianne Hough, Josh Duhamel, Cobie Smulders (How I Met Your Mother) As she runs from a dark past she can’t seem to escape, Katie lands in the town of Southport, North Carolina, where she reluctantly forms strong ties and eventually faces her past in a new light.

MOVIE TITLE: Oz: The Great and Powerful EXPECTED RELEASE DATE: March 8, 2013 NOTEWORTHY CAST: Mila Kunis, James Franco, Rachel Weisz, Michelle Williams, Zach Braff We all know how Dorothy got there, but what about the Great and Powerful Oz? Learn how the man behind the legend went from small-time circus magician to big-time wizard.

MOVIE TITLE: The Host EXPECTED RELEASE DATE: March 29, 2013 NOTEWORTHY CAST: Saoirse Ronan (Hanna), Diane Kruger (Troy, National Treasure), William Hurt In a time when an alien race is injecting souls into human bodies in order to take over the world, alien “Wanda” instead forms a bond with her host body and sets out on a mission of her own.

THE GREAT GATSBY

ENDER’S GAME

CATCHING FIRE

By Nicholas Sparks MOVIE TITLE: Safe Haven EXPECTED RELEASE DATE: February 8, 2013

By F. Scott Fitzgerald

By Orson Scott Card

MOVIE TITLE: The Great Gatsby EXPECTED RELEASE DATE: May 10, 2013 NOTEWORTHY CAST: Leonardo DiCaprio, Adelaide Clemens (X-Men Origins: Wolverine), Isla Fisher, Carey Mulligan, Tobey Maguire Originally set to release Christmas Day 2012, the classic story of Nick Carraway’s encounter with the lavish lifestyle of Jay Gatsby will now hit theaters in May - we hope.

MOVIE TITLE: Ender’s Game EXPECTED RELEASE DATE: November 1, 2013 NOTEWORTHY CAST: Ben Kingsley, Asa Butterfield (Hugo), Harrison Ford, Abigail Breslin, Viola Davis Discovered to be especially bright, a child of the future is sent to an advanced military school in space, where he trains to fight in the ongoing war with a bug-like alien species.

By Stephanie Meyer

(2nd installment of the HUNGER GAMES TRILOGY) By Suzanne Collins MOVIE TITLE: Catching Fire EXPECTED RELEASE DATE: November 22, 2013 NOTEWORTHY CAST: Jennifer Lawrence, Elizabeth Banks, Woody Harrelson and other notable names from the original movie The adventures of Katniss Everdeen continue in the futuristic nation of Panem.

THE HOBBIT By J.R.R. Tolkien MOVIE TITLE: The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2nd of three movies) EXPECTED RELEASE DATE: December 13, 2013 NOTEWORTHY CAST: Elijah Wood, Cate Blanchett, Evangeline Lilly (LOST) and other names from the Lord of the Rings movies The second installment of the three-part silver screen version of the classic. Follow Bilbo Baggins from the comfort of his rustic home, through an incredible journey and back again.

living-magazine.com // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013

LIFE & STYLE

Recipes from the

Husted Home While Living Magazine’s very own Brittany Husted makes a mean broccoli cheese casserole (among other things), her husband Patrick is the real chef of the family. Here are a few of the couple’s favorite recipes, from their kitchen to yours.

Heat oven to 375 F. Dice onion and garlic. Cut bacon to your preference. In a large skillet,

crisp bacon, adding the diced onion and garlic with 5 minutes until bacon is crisped. Drain excess bacon fat. Add cream of mushroom, milk, salt and pepper. Let simmer to thicken about 10 minutes. Add green beans and Italian breadcrumbs, mixing together thoroughly. Pour mixture into large baking pan. Bake for 20 minutes. Top the casserole with the crispy onion strings and bake an additional 20 minutes.

Broccoli Cheese Casserole: 1 onion butter 1 can cream of mushroom soup 1 cup milk 1 pound Velveeta cheese 2 cups rice (I use one bag of Success Boil-in-Bag rice) 1 head of broccoli (or one bag frozen) Heat oven to 350 F. Chop up one onion and lightly sauté in a pan with butter until the pieces turn golden brown. In the meantime, fill 2 medium-sized pans halfway with water and bring to a boil. Add cream of mushroom to your pan of sautéed onions, along

Beer Can Chicken: (Violated Chicken)

Green Bean Casserole: 1 pound French-cut green beans 4 ounces mesquite smoked bacon 1 onion 3 cloves garlic 1 cup crispy fried onion strings 1 can cream of mushroom 1/4 cup milk 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs

RECIPES S UBMITTED BY PATRIC K & BRITTA NY HUSTE

with half a can of milk and the Velveeta cheese. Let the cheese melt on low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or burning. Check on the two pots of boiling water. Fill one with a bag of rice and let cook for 10 minutes before draining. Fill the other with a bag of chopped broccoli or 1 chopped head of broccoli (can add more depending on how much broccoli you want) and let cook for 15 minutes before draining. Add the cooked rice to your cheese & onion mixture and stir. Put broccoli in the bottom of a large pan and add the rice & cheese mixture. Mix everything together in a casserole dish and bake for 30 minutes or until the casserole doesn’t slide when tilted. Enjoy!

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013

1 whole chicken 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons salt 1 teaspoon black pepper 3 tablespoons of your favorite dry spice rub 1 can beer Optional ingredients: 1/2 pound soaked pecans 1 jar of your favorite BBQ sauce Remove neck and giblets from chicken and discard. Rinse chicken inside and out and pat dry with paper towels. Rub chicken lightly with oil then rub inside and out with salt, pepper and dry rub. Set aside. Open beer can and empty half. (I drink the unused half versus wasting a perfectly good beer.) Place beer can on a solid surface. Grabbing a chicken leg in each hand, plunk the bird cavity over the beer can. Transfer the birdon-a-can to your grill and place in the center of the grate, balancing the bird on its 2 legs and the can like a tripod. Cook the chicken over medium-high, indirect heat (i.e. no coals or burners directly under the bird) with the grill cover on for approximately 75 minutes or until the internal temperature registers 165 F in the breast area and 180 F in the thigh, or until the thigh juice runs clear when stabbed with a sharp knife. Remove from grill and let rest for 10 minutes before carving. For an additional flavor boost: Paint the chicken with your favorite sauce every 30 minutes while on the grill. Soak pecans in water for 24 hours prior to cooking. Toss a handful of soaked pecans under your bird (not on direct heat), to create pecan smoke that will drive some serious flavor into your chicken.

living-magazine.com // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013

LIFE & STYLE

PUERTO PLATA

3  MONTE CRISTI

2  CABARETE

{ TRAVEL }

Road Tripping on the

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC’S

1  LAS TERRENAS

North Coast

BY JUSTIN KOSORIS

DR TRAVEL

TIPS:

The Dominican Republic (DR) is a very popular vacation destination. The massive Punta Cana development in the east, with its all-inclusive resorts, receives the majority of the over four million tourists yearly to the island. With that in mind, it might seem odd that the guidebook Lonely Planet calls the DR “the Caribbean’s Next Big Thing” on its list of top ten destinations for 2013. With a bit of planning, however, we manage to make the DR our personal playground, and are left wondering where the rest of the four million tourists are. We fly into Santo Domingo, rent a car at the airport and head north. The northeast highway (Route 7) is a straight shot north, and on it we traverse the entire island in around an hour and a half. The road is new and almost empty, there is some spectacular scenery, and the only stops we make are to pay a few tolls. Once we reach the end of the highway, we follow signs to our first destination, LAS TERRENAS, on the Samana Penninsula. Our hotel, the Casa Coson, is situated right on a long stretch of pristine beach a few miles before the town of Las Terrenas. The sand is that perfect off-white and lends itself well to long walks or runs as well as being soft enough to lie on all day.

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013

FLIGHTS: There are flights to Santo Domingo several times daily from Miami. There are also direct flights to Puerto Plata. The beach, which is several miles long, is lined as far as we can see with palm trees, and a backdrop of mountains adds to the ambience. We share the beach with a few dozen other people, effectively giving us each our own personal football field-sized beach all to ourselves. The waves are high enough for kite and body surfers, but calm enough for swimming. Casa Coson itself is a delight – small with a welcoming staff and delicious food. A drive into Las Terrenas is also rewarding. The town has its share of tourist shops and restaurants, but it also feels more local than most resort towns. Further east along the Samana, one can find waterfalls, hiking and whale watching. Since it’s not the season, we leave that to our next visit and instead head west along the DR’s North Coast. Our first stop: CABARETE. We find a promising hotel called Natura Cabana just outside of town. It’s a similar situation: pristine, empty beach, welcoming staff, great food. The Natura Cabana bills itself as a luxury eco-hotel and offers a full range of spa treatments, yoga classes and massages. It’s an incredibly peaceful place, one that nicely complements a night out on the town in Cabarete. Cabarete is small, and from the road it doesn’t seem like much. We choose a random bar and

LANGUAGE: Many Dominicans, especially those in the tourist industry, speak some English, but some Spanish can be useful and will be appreciated.

DRIVING IN DR: Roads are good and well-marked for the most part, especially highways. Dominican pesos are needed for tolls on the Northeast Highway, as the toll booths don’t take US dollars (although most shops and restaurants do).

TRIP PLANNING: www.tripadvisor.com for restaurant and hotel reviews; www.godominicanrepublic.com, the official DR Ministry of Tourism site, is also excellent and can help with trip planning.

walk through to the seaside, where a different world opens up. The beach is lined with dozens of bars, restaurants and nightclubs, each with its own setup and theme. Older vacationers mix with backpackers, local students and kite surfers to create a party atmosphere that stretches the length of the beach. Our night starts with a simple but delicious seafood dinner, followed by, in no particular order, a bar crawl, fondue, a 90s dance party, watching the ‘Horns lose to West Virginia, and dancing in the sand Gangnam style with our Dominican wait staff. We leave at 3am, and the party is still in full swing. The next morning, after a hearty Dominicanstyle breakfast that includes mangu (mashed plantains with garlic), eggs, fried cheese and local coffee, we are recovered and ready to hit the road once again. We skip Puerto Plata with its big resorts and commercial feel and instead drive to the very northwest of the DR, almost to the border with Haiti. This highway is lined with restaurants serving chivo liniero (roasted goat), a local specialty, and provides a window into one of the major agricultural areas of the island. Our final destination is a town called MONTE CRISTI. The town itself is small, and among its claims to fame are a clock tower de-

signed by Gustave Eiffel and some Victorian gingerbread-style houses in various stages of graceful decay. The centerpiece, looming over the town and impossible to miss, is a large Gibralter-style rock known as El Morro. We arrive at the El Morro Eco Adventure Hotel, which lies in the shadow of the mountain-like rock. The hotel, like others before it, is fantastic. The rooms are in freestanding bungalows and are tasteful and spotless. The grounds are immaculate, complete with large bar area and pool. The hotel also arranges boat trips to deserted island beaches and great snorkeling and diving spots, mangrove tours and bike/atv routes. A few minutes’ walk from the hotel is the beach, nestled in a cove directly underneath El Morro. There used to be a set of wooden stairs up to the top of the mountain, but with a decent pair of shoes it’s still possible to hike up to the top. We are rewarded with a view and a feeling of isolation that gives us the sense that we’re the first people to ever reach this summit.

LONELY PLANET HAS IT RIGHT: Despite the DR’s millions of tourists a year, with a modest effort we manage to create an unforgettable trip off the beaten path that only seems to hint at the incredible depth of experiences that the DR’s North Coast has to offer.

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013

LIFE & STYLE

A MOTHER’S TALE BY LINDSAY MARKERT

One Million Ways There are many, many feelings associated with being a mother. Joy, elation, excitement, nervousness, fear, inadequacy.....ahhh. It’s like the ROYGBIV of feelings. Light to dark. While you may expect to feel those things before becoming a mother, those feelings can still hit you like a ton of bricks when you actually experience them. The highs are high and the lows are, well, low. Let’s start with the highs. I have yet to meet a new mother who is not blown away with overwhelming love for her child. I remember the feeling so well...it’s a moment of clarity and understanding where you realize that you did not truly know love until you laid eyes on your child. It is so cliché, but most new mothers will admit to not understanding the deep and unending love of a mother until they became one. Even after the newness wears off, the joy and excitement of each new milestone is so consuming that you just want to freeze time. Now the lows. There is “The Fear” which causes your mother mind to create all sorts of (mostly impossible) situations with accompanying save-the-day solutions. You know, just in case you should ever be at the zoo when the animals escape. -JILL CHURCHILL Then there is the much more normal general nervousness about your abilities to bathe a newborn without dropping him or juggling multiple children at the grocery store. Those types of lows can be tough to deal with, but the worst low of all is the curse of the perfect mother.

“THERE IS NO ONE WAY TO BE A PERFECT MOTHER AND ONE MILLION WAYS TO BE A GOOD ONE.”

Thankfully, that perfect mother does not exist. The bad thing is, not everyone knows that.

What do our children learn from perfect mothers?

I am not a parenting expert by any means, but I would guess the answer to that question is not a lot. If you have ever been around a co-worker, friend or family member who always did everything right, think of how that made you feel. Most likely, inadequate tops the list. Maybe add in a little resentment. Put those feelings together and that is not the best learning environment for our tiny pupils. We want our children to strive to be better, yes, but we need to be realistic with our expectations. No one is perfect, and by pretending to be perfect, by showing only our good sides, we are setting our children up for failure in a big way. They are tiny little sponges, waiting to soak up all they can about how to function in this world. They need to see how problems are solved and how to bounce back from mistakes. They need to hear us apologize when we mess up and see us show others grace when they do. The elephant in the room when discussing mothering is the stay-at-home mom vs. working mom debate. I have been both so I can say with 100% conﬁ dence and sincerity that both are HARD. Each role has different pros and cons; its own set of sacriﬁ ces and rewards. But still, neither produces a perfect mother.

Tips to avoid being plagued by perfection:

» »

Don’t compare. Comparison is the thief of joy. Enough said. Be realistic. A two-page to-do list and lots of children underfoot do not go together (been there, done that). Set attainable goals and don’t let yourself feel guilty for what doesn’t make the list.

Here are a few ways I am focusing on being a good, not perfect, mother: Being present and attentive. Being happy and loving. Being creative and silly. Being interested in what they love.

Being a mother is not rainbows and sunshine all the time. It is a lifelong job with little vacation time. No matter what motherhood looks like for you, remember to give yourself grace. Don’t strive to be perfect, because without a doubt you will come up short. As we go into the new year, I am going to focus on being a good mother and not a perfect one. Because in those moments I waste striving for an unattainable perfection, I am missing some opportunities to be the best mother I can.

Happy New Year!

Lindsay, a Waxahachie native, is a mother of four and writes her articles during morning nap time. Visit her blog at www.themommarazziblog.blogspot.com/ to read more about her family.

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013

Show grace. For yourself and others. Make a list of all that you did accomplish instead of focusing on what got pushed to tomorrow. Yes - tasks like feeding children, getting out the door on time, making phone calls or attending meetings, not forgetting anyone or anything totally make the list. No one is going to toot your horn for you, so put a happy little check mark next to all of the things you were able to complete in a day’s time. Remember that your children want you. Imperfections and all, you are the only mother they want. Revel in that fact.

living-magazine.com // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013

HISTORY

History

in the Making BY MELISSA CHAPMAN

In Waxahachie, history is everywhere. You just have to look for it.

With modern modernsiding sidingandand ines, house rooflroofl ines, the the house was decorated in a style typical of homes in the 1940s. However, some features peaked out from Waxahachie, designated in the early 1900s as behind the façade that told a different story. Signs Queen of the Cotton Belt, has grown to be known that indicated the house might be of an earlier era as the Gingerbread City for the ornate woodwork included its location in the middle of a national found on many of its historic homes. Drive down historic district, 12-foot ceilings throughout the Main Street, or almost any other street in old house, fl oor-to-ceiling windows in the front rooms Waxahachie, and you’ll fi nd beautiful examples and a roofl ine that seemed a bit askew. of Victorian, Gothic Revival and Queen Anne architecture. The Kauffmans decided to take a chance and see if their gamble would pay off. At closing, they In 1990, when Becky and Jim Kauffman became received an unexpected but very encouraging empty nesters, they were ready to downsize surprise. The seller told them about an old photo of from their large 1895 home on East Marvin, the house from 1916. Once the Kauffmans found but weren’t ready to give up living in a historic the photo, they knew they had found the historic property. Thus began their quest for a new, old, property they had been looking for and began home in Waxahachie. their quest to return the home to its previous glory. “We’re old home people,” Becky said. “The details and character of an old house can rarely be reproduced in something new. When we decided to move, we immediately began scouring the older sections of town looking for another historic property that would be the right size for us. After looking at multiple properties, we ended up coming back to one that we had discarded on initial inspection.”

The photo featured a couple under a wedding bell getting married in front of the house. From it, the Kauffmans could tell that it had originally been a Victorian home with a front porch, chimney, side window and gingerbread trim that had all disappeared. With these clues, the couple began to peel back the layers of time to discover what their home had been.

They used old Sanborn Insurance Maps to research the history and original condition of the house. Available at the Ellis County Museum and Sims Library, the maps are a good source for documenting the original construction details and show the evolution of a house from year to year. The maps document the number of stories of a house, if it has any porches, the exterior and roofi ng material, lot location and whether there are “We had initially passed on the house because any outlying buildings. Looking through the maps, it looked so homely,” Jim said. “However, as we the Kauffmans found the fi rst documentation of continued to look at the home, we noticed features their house on a 1914 map. As the picture had that indicated it was older than it seemed.“ shown, the outline of the structure showed that What the Kauffmans found was a property on West Main with a decidedly modern appearance nestled in the midst of the historic district. At fi rst glance, it didn’t seem at all to be what the Kauffmans had been looking for; but upon closer inspection, there were many clues that there was more history to the house than there appeared.

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013

A photo of a wedding in front of the house in 1916, showing its original design and style.

Tips for researching your historic property: » The property’s legal description - look on tax records, closing papers, title search or at the Ellis County Appraisal District. » Property transactions - visit the Ellis County Clerk’s offi ce to search the grantee-grantor indexes for a history of the property’s previous owners. » Original construction details - check the mechanics’ and material-men’s liens in the county clerk’s offi ce, Sanborn Insurance Maps either online at Sims Library or on hard copies at the Ellis County Museum, as well as a bird’seye view for selected years. » The people – in the reference section of Sims Library, review local directories in which listings are given by address. Look up the street address and fi nd the name and occupation of the occupant. Search the exact death date of deceased owners on familysearch.org. Then view old newspaper obituaries at the library on microfi lm for more information.

living-magazine.com // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013

HISTORY

2012 there was indeed a front porch originally on the house as well as one in the back. The next step was to dig into the house itself and see what stories it would tell. The Kauffmans began by going into the attic. They found that the original roofl ine was still intact and had been covered up by a new one. This explained the odd symmetry of the current roofl ine. Then they peeled back the vinyl siding. “We didn’t know what we would fi nd under the siding,” Becky said. “We were thrilled when we found the original cypress wood siding was still there. Often the original wood is so sturdy that, if properly taken care of, it’s stronger and better than anything you can get today.” Based on the research and investigating they had done, the Kauffmans were now ready to begin renovations with the goal of making the house as authentic to the original as possible. Using the information gleaned from the Sanborn maps, the 1916 photo and the house’s own architecture, the couple transformed the house back to its previous splendor.

1990 hardware and trim from the same time period. The Kauffmans tried to strike a balance between maintaining the integrity of the building and making it comfortable. In spaces renovated by previous owners where fewer historic features survived, the couple made practical improvements such as upgrading the kitchen and bathrooms. “The trick with an old house is to preserve it, make it livable and beautiful, and we tried to achieve all three,” Becky said. Having restored the house to its previous glory, the Kauffmans then worked to give it the recognition it deserved. They contacted the Texas Historical Commission, which administers the National Register of Historic Places in the state, to apply for the home to be recognized as a historical property within the West End Historic District of Waxahachie. To meet the criteria for a National Register listing, the Kauffmans had to provide documentation that the house was at least 50 years old, maintained its historic integrity and represented a distinctive design or construction.

“From our research, we were able to restore the front façade of the home back to its original state,” Becky said. “We were able to duplicate the front porch, its posts and gingerbread trim. The side window to the porch had been moved to the front of the house and we returned it to its original location. Once this was done, the old rooﬂ ine immediately made sense. It was now centered properly, symmetrically over the front two windows.”

“All the research we did to restore the house proved vital in getting it approved for national recognition,” Becky said. “We were able to submit historic photos and maps of the property as well as documentation of its date of construction: June 27, 1890. Throughout the process, we strived to restore the home back to its original design as much as possible. For us, receiving historic designation was a wonderful validation of our efforts.”

Keeping the front two rooms as authentic as possible was a priority. Some of the original features that remained were the fl oor-to-ceiling windows, moldings and 1940s era hardwood fl oors. When the paneling was removed, it was evident where there had originally been transom windows. What original fi xtures weren’t remaining, the Kauffmans replaced with architectural antiques, vintage

At the end of their journey, Becky and Jim Kauffman had found what they were looking for - a beautiful historic property in Waxahachie. While it hadn’t been immediately obvious what they had, with a little digging and a lot of hard work they had uncovered a historic gem that had gone unappreciated for years. Now, more than 20 years later, they can’t imagine living anywhere else.

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013

Resource Links for Researching and Restoring a Historic Home: » Historic Waxahachie Inc. historicwaxahachie.net » Waxahachie Heritage Preservation Commission Program Summary waxahachie.com. Access the Heritage Preservation link under Departments and open the document titled Frequently Asked Questions & Program Summary. » Ellis County Museum rootsweb.ancestry.com/~txecm/ » Ellis County Genealogy Website. rootsweb.ancestry.com/~txellis/ » Texas Historical Commission thc.state.tx.us » Federal Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties nps.gov/history/hps/tps/ standguide/index.htm and click the link for introduction and historical overview. » National Register of Historic Places – nps.gov/history/nt/ » The Preservation Directory – preservationdirectory.com » Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitationnps.gov/tps/standards/ rehabilitation/rehab/index.htm

living-magazine.com // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013

LIFE & STYLE { NONPROFIT }

Start Something By becoming a Big Brother or Big Sister to a child who needs you. BY DARNESHIA SMITH As a fourth grader I was trying to make the best of my childhood, but certain family situations made it hard. So eight years ago, my elementary school counselor Anita Barnes made my life easier when she enrolled me in a program called Big Brothers Big Sisters.

I have been Darneshia’s big sister since she was in the fourth grade. I will never forget the moment I saw her with a big smile on her face! It made my day then to see her smile and continues to make my day - eight years later. She is now a senior and preparing for the next step in her life: college. I have enjoyed every moment with Darneshia. I see us as being “lifetime” friends. She is full of life and so smart and I treasure all the moments we have together. I am enjoying seeing her mature into a young lady and watching what she does with her life. I feel confident in saying BBBS has been a life-changing experience for both of us! -ANNETTE GOSS, BIG SISTER Confused about what this program was

about, I met with a lady by the name of Diana Phillips and she explained to me what the program was and who I was being matched with. My Big Sister was Annette Goss and she was very sweet, but I was not really a people person and was very stubborn. It took me a few months to warm up to her because I did not really understand why I was brought into this program. As the months passed and we spent time together, I began to understand the purpose of BBBS. To me, the purpose is to bless a child with an adult who is able to be a supporter for them. Not through money, but through love and care. Miss Annette has done that and more. Whenever I had a problem at home or school, she was right there by my side being a mother figure to me. We have been matched with one another for a little over eight years, and this is just the beginning. We have already made plans to continue to be great friends once I graduate from high school this year. Also,

Bowl For Kids’ Sake SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2013 11 A.M. OR 1:30 P.M. HILLTOP SUPER BOWL 2010 W. Business 287 Waxahachie

In December, Dar had already be neshia was deciding betw een en everyone at B accepted to. She, her fam two schools she BBS are excite ily d to see what’s , Annette and in store for he r.

she has not only welcomed me into her life, her family has welcomed me in. Her children are right behind me in age and are my little brother and sister. Miss Annette and I started as a schoolbased match, which is where you meet at school. Eventually, we switched to community-based so we could get together outside of school. We made this change because she took on two other littles, and with her life being so busy at times she wanted to make sure I was fine with seeing her less. I told her, “I am more than okay with seeing you less because you’ve been a blessing to me, and it would be selfish to deprive someone else from getting a chance like I have received.” From that day forward, we have reached a level in our relationship that is undescribable because we have grown to love each other dearly. I am thankful to Mrs. Barnes for putting me into BBBS because I am blessed by God to have someone who exceeds what is asked of her, and Miss Annette loves me unconditionally.

100% of each dollar raised supports kids right here in your community! Get a team of 5-6 of your employees, family or friends together to bowl. Each participant who collects a minimum of $100 in donations enjoys a bowling party and receives two free games, food/ drinks, a t-shirt, a souvenir team photo, door prizes and much more — all in support of local children served by Big Brothers Big Sisters.

For a team packet or more info, visit www.bowlforkidssake.org and click on the Waxahachie location or contact Diana Phillips at 972-573-2420 or dphillips@bbbstx.org.

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013

60,000 square feet of

Entertainment, shopping & fun for the whole family!

100 Local Businesses

AÊT asteÊof ÊW axahachie Special Events Featuring:

Health Screening • Door Prizes Fashion & Shopping • Kids Activities Vendors and Products Galore

972.937-2390 or www.waxahachiechamber.com Tickets - Adults $3.00 and Children under 10 FREE!

Local Shopping

LIFE & STYLE

MARKETPLACE BLOOMS & MORE

THE STUDIO

This Valentine’s Day, find the perfect arrangement to show that special someone how much you care. 301 N Elm Street Waxahachie 972.937.3111

Show your Lone Star pride with our Texas decor. Always 20% OFF - everyday. 2693 N Hwy 77, Waxahachie 972.617.7740

www.bloomsandmore.net

SALON ENVY

Pamper your loved ones and yourself. Stop by for gift certificates today! 303 S Elm, Waxahachie 972.937.4142

KUTIE PATOOTIE COUTURE

www.salonenvyspa.com

Custom designer clothing for the little girl in all of us. Custom couture clothing by Carrie Carter.

ANNIE’S GARDEN

Place your Valentine’s Day orders through February 4. Free Delivery. Anna Sanders, 903.879.2633

www.kutiepatootiecouture.com

facebook/kutiepatootiecouture.com

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TURQUOISE HAVEN

IMPRESSIONS SALON ETC.

MASSAGE BY TERRA

VALENTINE’S special: Wrap your arms around a loved one with a paraffin body wrap. Call today to schedule your appointment. Gift certificates available! Massages/Spa Facials, Body Scrubs & Reflexology. 301 S Rogers, Ste G Waxahachie 972.825.9692

Thinning hair? We can help! Stop in for Aveda’s Invati Treatment for Thinning Hair. Start the new year with a new style with us at Impressions Salon. Enjoy 5$ off when you present this ad. An Aveda Salon Thank you to all of our loyal customers - we appreciate you. 202 N I-35 Service Rd, #B Red Oak 972.617.6300 www.impressionssalonetc.net

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013

Come see our new line of lace and camo! Retail and wholesale. 120 N Hwy 77, Ste F Waxahachie 972.937.0337 www.turquoisehaven.com

PUDDIN’S CAFE VALENTINE DINNER

A perfect way to celebrate with the one you love. Tickets available at Puddin’s Café 114 West Brown Street, Ennis. Call for more information. 972.878.0046

Valentine Dinner

living-magazine.com // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013

HOME & GARDEN

living-ma

g a zine. c om // J AN UA RY-FEBRUA RY 2013

{ HOME O F THE YEA R 2013 }

The H o use Tha t

Built Me BY DIANE JOHNSON COLLA RD { PHO TOG RA PH Y BY BILL H URS T }

The Home of the Year for 2013 is one of the most unique homes we have featured in Living Magazine. When the editor and photographer turned onto the long winding gravel drive, crossed the cattle guard and drove toward the stone house in the distance, they had no idea what they were about to experience. I hope you enjoy the visit as much as we did. When Brandi H arper started purchasing architectural remnants, windows, doors, fences and anything else she could find, she had a vision. S he and her husband, Kevin, had purchased an eighty-acre tract of land and were saving to build their dream home. In the meantime, Brandi was actively on the hunt for treasures to incorporate into their home. S torage buildings and barns were filled to the

brim with what appeared to be broken, ragged junk. But those pieces of junk were soon transformed into unique furniture and architectural details that make the H arper home unique and wonderful. Ten years have passed since the H arpers started building their dream home. O ver time, the home has evolved into a work of art. Every room is filled with stories. S tories of where they have traveled and

what they have loved most are evident in every room. A shared love for their home and their family. This extraordinary home is so unique that it won a competition in all categories for the TLC show Four H ouses, which featured four homes in the Dallas area. A ll of these homes were totally different and unique in their own right, but the creativity and genius of recycling what most of us living-ma

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HOME & GARDEN

would consider junk made this house stand tall above the rest. Brandi and Kevin have three teenage boys, Mason, H olden and Jessie, who have learned to enjoy and take part in the constant parade of people and “things” that pass through their home. Brandi also utilized their youthful muscle power to get projects completed. Everything they do is a family affair. H unting, fishing and sports are all favorite family activities and that is evidenced in the décor. A fter all, doesn’t everyone have a six-

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foot mounted bear in their living room and a full-size horse in their bedroom? These boys are never surprised by anything their mother brings home. It is just another day at the H arper ranch. There are so many unusual features to this home that we would have to dedicate a full magazine to really show the details, but I will try to highlight some of the most unique areas. The living room features an actual windmill as a ceiling fan. It has been motorized and really works. Two

antique garage doors taken from an old car dealership in Ennis adorn one upper wall in the living room. Those doors also serve as a wall in the upper level cantina. The dining room light fixture is an iron truck bed turned upside down and hanging from huge chains. There are five turkey cages hanging from the center of the bed that are wired and lighted. This fixture is unique, to say the least, and the product of a very creative mind. Kevin’s office is filled with his personality. Brandi made his desk

using antique doors - a decorating mainstay throughout this home. The bookcase is actually a merchandise shelf from an old department store and has a story all its own. The H arper home features four bedrooms: three upstairs and the master on the main floor. The romantic master bedroom has a grand king size bed raised on a three tier platform. The bed and bedposts are covered with antique crocheted lace and burlap. There is an ample seating area softened by a huge crocheted umbrella and V ictorian furniture. Yes, there is also a full-size horse to accompany a saddle and a vast collection of cowboy boots openly displayed on an antique bookshelf. The pass-through fireplace is also a wall in the master bath, with a mantle made from an enormous king size headboard. It stands behind the giant built-in tub, surrounded by natural stone. The fixture on the tub is a bronze horse head that was plumbed to work as a faucet. The kitchen is the main hub for the H arper family, as entertaining and cooking are everyday affairs in this home. Bars on the two sides dividing the breakfast and living room from the kitchen have handcut brick countertops. The range hood is actually a porch taken from a home being torn down in the area and the antique chopping block is a family heirloom. The cantina on the second floor

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HOME & GARDEN

of the home is equipped with two televisions so the boys and their guests can watch multiple sporting events at the same time. The snack bar and popcorn machine offer easy access to refreshments and an open stairway leads to the third floor media room. O ne of my favorite features in this home is the upper covered porch, accessed from the C antina. There are three hanging rope swings as well as tables and chairs for extra seating, but sitting on a swing overlooking the pool and the vast landscape is hard to beat. The exterior of the H arper home is a conglomeration of many textures, colors and special features. The walls are covered with river rock in tans, browns and rusty tones and cedar posts frame the ample porch, which is filled with antique sofas and chairs in original tapestry and velvet fabrics. There is old, rusty metal rickrack accenting the ridges of the front porch roof. S ome of the roofing is made up of sheets of rusted metal and some is composition, but it all comes together perfectly. Every inch of this home screams fun and family. Entertaining and sharing their home with others is what makes this house breath and live for the H arper family, but the treasures inside make it a work of art. I hope you have enjoyed your visit to the H arper ranch.

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living-magazine.com // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013

HOME & GARDEN { HOME SECURITY }

SMART HOUSE BY JEREMY FRITZ

These days we go to great lengths to protect….well, everything. We have pin numbers, passwords and security questions. It seems likely considering that after finances, security - in many facets - is next on our list of worries. Protecting your home or business used to mean “safety” or “stop theft”. Today, people install security systems for a number of reasons. When we hear alarm system we often think of a box on a wall that dings or chimes at us on occasion. Thanks to rapidly evolving technology, those days are far behind us. Security systems that we are used to consist of a main control panel connecting hundreds of feet of wire to a keypad. From the keypad, you can arm and disarm or set your alarm. What does setting your alarm actually mean? You can arm your system when there are no occupants in the building or home: AWAY. The second way to arm your system is: STAY. The stay option is used when the occupants are present and do not plan on going in and out of the entries, usually set before going to bed.

HOW DOES A BASIC SECURITY SYSTEM WORK? Generally, a security system consists of motion detectors, glass break detectors and contacts on your doors and windows. Any time these contacts are “tripped” (the magnet in the contact is separated from its counter-

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part), it sends a signal to your control panel. If the system is armed, it will immediately sound the siren and send a signal to your designated monitoring station. The monitoring station follows a protocol of contacting the owner and local authorities. Glass break detectors are typically installed on ceilings above windows and detect the vibrations and sound of breaking glass. These are great for homes that do not have contacts on every window. When a homeowner has free-roaming pets, glass breaks are good alternatives to motion detectors. Motion detectors are, you guessed it, devices that monitor for motion inside the home or business. This detector is only activated in the AWAY mode.

SMART PHONE, SMART HOUSE? The technology available in regards to security systems has changed in many ways over the years. The newest systems offer touch-screen panels that provide current time, date and weather - including severe weather alerts. The most commonly known, the 2gig system, is among the first to offer the capabilities of controlling your security system from a smartphone or computer using the Internet. From these you can arm/disarm the system, and with compatible devices can also control your A/C and heating system, lock/unlock doors

and even operate certain lights. The owner can also receive text messages or email notifications when contacts are tripped or the system’s status has changed. Another key feature that has become popular is adding contacts to safes and cabinets (i.e. guns, liquor, medicine). These can be beneficial to homes with small children. It is safe to say that today’s security systems offer much more than an occasional chime. When considering a security system for your home or business, remember a professional can tailor systems and devices to your specific needs. Jeremy and his partner Clark Baggett own Wolf Protection Specialists in Waxahachie. Learn more at www.wolfprotection.net or call 972-935-4615.

Devices like this one from 2gig offer the latest in home security.

living-magazine.com // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013

HOME & GARDEN

I Can See Clearly Now (Through Energy-Efﬁcient Windows) BY LARRY BURKS

Saving on utility costs. Making a home more comfortable in winter and summer. Sound reduction. Security. Obtaining a clearer view, home value and appearance. Easyto-open and clean windows. UV protection. A few of the reasons families consider upgrading their homes with replacement windows. All Energy Star rated windows in the DFW market have the same basic features and most have comparable energy ratings. There are five features on replacement windows that translate to benefits: • Windows have rigid vinyl frames which do not conduct heat or noise vibration. • Double air seals around the operating sash minimize sound, dust and air infiltration. • Double or triple panes of glass (thermopane) add to the insulating ability of windows. • Argon or krypton gas between the thermo-pane glasses are safe, inert gases that are more dense than air and further maximize the insulating ability of a window. • The ﬁnal and most important feature is a coating on the glass called Low “E”. This coating consists of alternating layers of titanium and silver. It is so thin that it does not noticeably reduce light coming into a home but blocks about 80% of radiant heat from entering through glass in the summer or radiating out of a home in the winter. Generally, there are three decisions to make during window selection. The first is frame color. Most vinyl window manufacturers offer two basic colors - white and almond and some offer other colors which they may charge a premium for. Second is whether or not a family wants to have divided lite grids between the panes of glass. These are the

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crossbars that make a window look like it is made up of several smaller panes of glass. Last is the decision of whether to choose single-hung or double-hung windows for a home. Single-hung is where the lower glass sash raises up and down but the upper glass is stationary. Double-hung is where both the top and bottom sashes can raise and lower and both may tilt in to facilitate cleaning all of the glass surfaces from inside the home. Obtaining quotes and talking with window sales representatives should not be burdensome or uncomfortable. A few guidelines to help you through the process include: obtain two to three quotes, check references, check with the BBB and Angie’s List (a very reliable subscriber-based rating system with reviews from your peers about a provider’s service levels, pricing, etc.), ask a lot of questions and take notes. Once you have gathered information from various providers, make a list of pros and cons of each provider and window on one sheet of paper so that you can compare apples to apples. While this may sound like a lot of work, it should be fairly simple. If in the process you have a question that needs to be answered or clarified, simply contact the window company and ask for the answer. Never be pressured into buying immediately due to some offer that is hard to refuse. If a window representative is offering a vast discount to you to buy right now, it is obvious the first quote he gave you was too high. Drop that company from your list of possible providers. Take the lead in communicating and getting clarification where needed. A qualified and insured window replacement dealer will be able to replace windows in all home constructions, including brick,

siding and stucco. The installers should cover the floor in the work area, clean as they go and complete all details so there is nothing left for the homeowner to address. Normally, no brick, sheetrock or trim needs to be removed from the home during window replacement. Your new windows will be custom-made to fit your window openings. There is no reason for the replacement process to be difficult for you when you choose a professional window company to serve you and your family. When you are ready to sign a sales agreement with a provider, make sure everything he has promised is noted on the sales agreement. This could include things such as sales tax; possible additional charges due to problems found, such as termites or rot; whether there is anything left for you as a homeowner to complete; a physical address and contact info of the salesperson; the company being represented and the installer. It is customary for a provider of replacement windows to ask for a down payment when you sign a sales agreement since you are ordering custom-made windows, but never pay the balance until the installer is finished with all work agreed upon and you are totally happy with your new windows and their installation. Once your new windows have been installed, you can sit back and enjoy all of the benefits of new windows and the fresh curb appeal of your home! Larry Burks and his wife, Dixie, are the owners of Smart Temp Windows of Ellis County - specializing in energy efficient replacement windows. Contact Larry at 972-935-0016 or by email at larry@ smarttempwindows.com.

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HOME & GARDEN

BUILT TO LAST BY MIKEL CRAIG

So You Are Looking To Buy a Home… Waxahachie has a rich and varied selection of homes that includes just about any type of construction one can have in Texas. In my 18 years of experience in home inspections, I have been privileged to inspect homes built from the 1800s to present day, and there are pros and cons to all. When I started thinking about writing this article, I struggled to find a place to start. There are so many different types of construction, including the old “postand-beam” and “gingerbread” (or ornately trimmed) homes that Waxahachie is famous for. There are also “pier-andbeam” homes, made popular in the 40s, 50s and 60s, and of course “slab” foundation homes that became popular in the late 60s. Then you throw in premanufactured homes, apartments and condominiums, and finally all types of small to large industrial and commercial buildings that can serve as both business and homes. There is a lot to think about. Taking all into account, I will examine the important aspects of the different “systems” in all homes. There is an old saying in construction that the foundation of the structure is 90 percent of the house and takes about 10 percent of the time, while the finish work in the house is 10 percent of the house but takes 90 percent of the time. That may be a little different from house to house, but you get the idea. There is another saying in construction, and indeed even in the Bible, that without a solid founda-

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tion to build upon, the work is in vain.

Foundations Most homes built before the 1960s in Waxahachie were “post-and-beam.” In this type of construction, supports were either sunk into the ground around the perimeter and through the middle of the house or placed on concrete pads. Supports consisted mainly of wooden posts or blocks, usually cedar, Bois d’ Arch, creosote-treated pine, stacked brick or rock, and on the better foundations, poured-in-place concrete. On top of the supports, a framework of pine lumber was constructed. The “post-and-beam” foundation is a very good and solid foundation and we still see many of these homes serving well. The biggest problem with this type of foundation is water penetration under the house. Unfortunately, most of the homes built had no site preparation done, so over the years the grade of the yard surrounding the house has elevated while the area under the house is low and tends to hold water. Since the natural grade in much of this area is from the northwest to the southeast as it slopes toward the creeks, so it is under the houses. Originally, these foundations were not closed in and drainage and moisture under the house was not a big concern. This was the place where the dogs, cats and chickens lived, and many fond memories of kids playing hide-and-seek were made. However, as time went by, the “in” thing was to close

these spaces up with “skirting” made of wood, metal or brick to make the houses more cosmetically appealing. As long as adequate ventilation was installed, there were few problems. Unfortunately, many did not install vents, leading to all kinds of problems with uneven movement and settlement of the soil. Mold and mildew can also be big concerns. When an inspector looks at these old “post-and-beam” houses, he or she has to look at the whole picture. There are so many items to be concerned with, including levelness, sponginess, ventilation, drainage, wood-destroying insects and structural integrity. Any one of these items can be very expensive to repair, and usually where there is one problem area there are many. In the late 1960s, the pre-stressed concrete slab-on-grade came into vogue. This type foundation can work well in our area if enough site preparation and reinforcement is incorporated. Unfortunately, we did not know in the 70s just how

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HOME & GARDEN

BUILT TO LAST

CONT.

rough our silty-clay soil is on concrete foundations, and many were severely “under-built;” failure of the slab foundations in the 60s, 70s and 80s was prevalent. The houses that had piers installed under them and an overabundance of steel are performing well to this day, but many have failed and foundation repair companies are doing big business shoring up those houses that “broke.” In the last 30 years, a foundation system called post-tensioned concrete slab-ongrade has become the accepted way to construct an average-sized home in our area. This system uses very high tensile cables and the concept of opposing forces to literally pull and hold the concrete foundation in place. Cables allow for the natural movement of the soil to occur while still holding the foundation together. There is still movement, but this type foundation reinforcement is much more forgiving.

Wall Construction Thankfully, wall construction is more often than not pretty sound. We run into problems every once in a while when folks try to cut corners with framing, but I am glad to be able to say that this is rare. One of the biggest problems we have in walls in our area is the presence of wood-destroying insect damage. It is always advisable to have a wood-destroying insect inspection performed when you purchase a home in our neck of the woods. What we cover the exterior walls with is always a concern, and how any exterior material is maintained is of the utmost importance. Homes with painted wood siding are almost always going to require more regular maintenance than a brick or rock veneer home. On the other hand, wood siding is much more forgiving than brick or rock when the foundation moves and cracks in mortar and brick occur. We have an abundance of choices when it comes to exterior wall coverings today. There is always wood, brick and rock, but now there are sidings that are made from a mixture of wood and cement, recycled plastic, vinyl, aluminum, steel and

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concrete products galore. Many of these sidings are considered “green” because of minimum impact on the environment and atmosphere, and will tend to last much longer with much less maintenance. How these materials are installed can affect the longevity and appearance, and much attention must be paid to the installation techniques used. Just remember that the siding and roof of the house are much like your skin and must be kept in good shape to protect the major components of your house.

insulating at the roofline is done in some homes now.

Roof and Attic Components

Roofing on the house is obviously a very important factor. There are many types of roofing on houses today, but they all have one thing in common: they are expensive! To remove and replace a composition roof today, the cost can be well over $200 a square (100 sq. ft.). Translated, that means replacing a typical 2000 square foot home roof can cost in excess of $10,000. It is always a good idea to have the roof walked and pay close attention to dings, scrapes, granule wear, exposed nail heads and overall general condition. Having the proper type of roofing on certain slopes is very important too. For example, composition roofing should never be used on slopes less than 2” in 12” without special treatment of the underlayment. Metal roofing, plastic or vinyl, clay or ceramic tile and asphalt impregnated cellulose roofing are other common types of roofing that we find in the area, and all require different methods of inspection.

A solid roof starts with solid framing techniques. The first clue to good roof framing is simply how the roof looks from the outside. If there are sags or high spots, or un-levelness in general, further investigation is always called for. Proper bracing and spacing of components and materials that are designed to span wide areas are extremely important to the integrity of the house over time. Engineered beams and components are more frequently required to obtain a framing system that is cosmetically beautiful and strong at the same time. Ventilation in the attic is extremely important, and all too often undervalued. There should be at least one square foot of ventilation for every 150 square feet of area in most conventionally built homes. Newer homes may require little or no ventilation depending on the construction insulation envelope, but knowing is half the battle. Radiant barriers are relatively new when it comes to energy efficiency in the home. A radiant barrier can be a thin layer of aluminum foil or maybe sheet metal, or even just aluminum paint. Barriers at the roof area can lessen the temperature in the attic by as much as 20 degrees - a huge benefit to energy efficiency in the summer. The most important aspect of energy efficiency in the attic is thermal insulation. There are many types of insulation, but all are designed to entrap small pockets of air and slow the movement or transfer of heat. Common types of insulation are fiberglass (loose-fill or batt), cellulose, mineral wool or sprayed-in foam. The vast majority of homes are insulated at the ceiling line, but

Heat transfer is expressed by the R-factor, or resistance to heat transfer; the lower the number, the less resistance to heat transfer. Most cities now require a minimum R-30 value in the attic, and for our climate zone an R-35 to 38 is considered ideal. Thermal insulators can also be good acoustical insulators and of all the insulations listed above, cellulose is probably best.

Roofing Components

MIKEL CRAIG has taught the building trades class at Waxahachie High School for 25 years and has been inspecting homes in Ellis County since 1994.

living-magazine.com // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013

HOME & GARDEN

» Gardening

BY MELINDA KOCIAN, ELLIS COUNTY MASTER GARDENERS

JANUARY 2013 PLANTING

» Transplant small trees, shrubs and perennials to new locations while they are dormant so they will be established before the heat and draught of summer. Water the root ball well before digging. » Mid-month, plant pepper, tomato and warm-weather annual seeds in flats. They need bright light and warm temperatures (60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit). Use grow lights for best results. » Sow sugar snap peas and plant onions in well-prepared soil.

FERTILIZING AND PRUNING

» Prune trees, including live oaks and red oaks, to remove dead, broken and unwanted branches, or to raise the canopy to allow more light underneath. » Pruning oak trees in late winter may help prevent oak wilt disease which can be fatal. » Peach and plum trees should be pruned to stimulate lateral branches and keep their “bowl” shape.

GARDEN WATCH

» Remove by hand broadleaf weeds such as clover, dandelions, henbit and chickweed in lawns and beds. If necessary, spot spray large areas of the lawn with a broadleaf weed killer when temperatures are above 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Be careful not to spray desirable plants. Read and follow labels carefully before using any pesticide.

FEBRUARY 2013 PLANTING

» Plant cool-season vegetable seeds such as lettuce, radishes, carrots, spinach, beets, chard and turnips directly into garden rows. Plant two to four weeks before the last average frost date March 15th in Ellis County. » Put asparagus crowns in permanent beds. » Plant petunias and snapdragons from four-inch pots. » Add container and bare root roses to your landscape. » Plant blackberries, grapes and fruit and nut trees. Contact Texas AgriLife Extension Service – Ellis County at 972-825-5175 for the best varieties.

FERTILIZING AND PRUNING

» Prune bush roses mid-month. Prune old, dead and weak canes back to the ground. Leave four to eight vigorous canes, removing half of their growth above an outward-facing bud. » Don’t prune climbing or leaning roses until after they bloom. » Cut old foliage of liriope and monkey grass before tips of new growth emerge. The dead tops of ornamental grasses can be pruned four to six inches from the ground. » Dig and divide large clumps of warm-season ornamental grasses if the center of the grass has died. Cut back herbaceous perennials to the ground or to the basil foliage. » Dig and divide fall-blooming perennials such as asters, mums, Mexican bush sage, Mexican mint marigold and Copper Canyon daisies.

GARDEN WATCH

» Watch for insects and diseases on fruit and nut trees. Spraying is essential for a successful crop. » Contact an Ellis County Master Gardener or the Texas AgriLife Extension Service – Ellis County for a copy of the Homeowner’s Fruit and Nut Spray Schedule. » Look for aphids and caterpillars on cool-season vegetables. Control aphids with insecticidal soap and caterpillars with Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis).

EARTH-KIND® RAISED BED CONSTRUCTION

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

Soil conditions throughout much of Texas are not well-suited for landscape plant materials. Under these conditions, the construction/use of raised beds may be the best option for long-term landscape success. Raised beds can range in height from a few inches to several feet. Generally speaking, beds less than 6” in height do little to promote drainage. Beds can be either linear or curvilinear in shape and should complement the overall landscape design. To learn more about Earth-Kind raised bed construction, click on the Resource tab at www.ecmga.com and click on Earth-Kind Publications.

TIPS: » Begin the construction process by laying out the beds using landscape paint, a flexible garden hose, string or other marking tools. Next, remove existing vegetation to reduce/eliminate future weed problems. Chemical herbicides (glyphosate) can be useful for broad-spectrum control. Removing a 3-4 inch layer of vegetation/sod is also an effective approach. Nutsedge and Bermuda grass are particularly difficult to control. » Consider irrigation as a necessary system component. Raised beds work well with conventional overhead irrigation systems or with low volume systems (i.e. drip, porous pipe, etc.).

Residential Service Providers

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MEDICAL

Too Young To dieT Dear Dr. Donaldson,

My 11-year-old daughter came home from school and told me she thinks she needs to go on a diet. Where is she getting these ideas? I have never told her she needs to lose weight. How can I talk to her about this?

You are right to be concerned about this. Your daughter is not alone. Statistics are alarming. Between 34 and 50 percent of young girls are dieting or binge eating. This is a conservative estimate. Some studies indicate eight out of 10 girls are on some type of diet. Worry about looks and weight begins as early as 5 years old. a recent survey indicated 25 percent of 7-year-old girls have dieted at least once. Boys are not immune to this; 34 percent of

8- to 12-year-old boys are reportedly dieting to lose weight.

our own body and not realize our children are listening.

Where do these fears come from?

as parents we need to talk about health, not weight. about character, personality and abilities, not looks. We can have conversations with our children about how advertising works and the unrealistic images it presents to them. We can encourage our children to pursue hobbies and interests, including sports. girls who are engaged in sports feel more confident and have a healthier body image than those who do not. i wish your daughter a happy, healthy future.

There are multiple sources. Parents may project fears about their own bodies. Television shows promote ultra thin ideals. magazines edit photos of women, depicting impossible standards. girls and boys try to live up to images they see on billboards and magazines, not realizing they are not real. We are teaching girls and boys to have unrealistic expectations regarding their bodies.

What can we do as parents? We need to promote healthy body images and explain that there is not just one ideal body size or shape. We should be careful about the words we use to describe our own bodies and avoid disparaging remarks. it is easy for us to make a negative remark about

living-magazine.com // JanUaRY-FeBRUaRY 2013

DR. DonalDSon is a clinical psychologist practicing in Waxahachie. She can be contacted at donaldsonpsyd@aol.com or by visiting donaldsonwellnesscenter.com.

living-magazine.com // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013

MEDICAL

{ HEALTH & BEAUTY }

WINTER

SKIN WOES BY ELIZABETH TANZI, M.D.

When should I moisturize? Apply moisturizers immediately after cleansing skin to avoid losing hydration. Periodic application throughout the day is helpful too, but the most important application is after cleansing. Wash only once daily with a very mild, nonfoaming cleanser such as CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser. Also, in the winter, use a humidifier in your bedroom at night to hydrate the air and your skin, allowing the moisturizer to lock in more hydration.

What is a good mask I could use to keep my skin from getting too dry in the winter? I like Dr Jart + Most Moist Water-Full Hydrogel Mask. My favorite items to fight winter skin include a thick cream that contains ceramides to help replenish the natural barrier function of the skin. Wind, cold and indoor heat dehydrate the skin, leaving it more susceptible to further inflammation and damage. A thick coating of barrier cream can protect it from the harshness of winter.

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Is a microdermabrasion a good idea during the winter?

EditorÕ s Pick

Not really, because it can dehydrate the skin, which is always a problem in the winter anyway. It’s better to exfoliate gently and apply moisturizer immediately. In general, I don’t like scrubs of any type for sensitive-skinned patients. It’s best to use a glycolic wash once or twice a week or a buffered glycolic-containing clay mask once weekly.

Help! My lips are dry and cracked! Licking your lips if they are dry just makes the problem much worse. Not only does it lead to increased dryness, but it can actually lead to a type of eczema (dermatitis) if done excessively. It’s better to keep lips moist with frequent application of lip balm or gloss.

What should my morning/ evening skin care regimen include during the winter? To update your skin care routine for the winter season, switch to a gentle, creamy

YES TO CARROTS

Color Lip Balm in Peachy Keen

AVEDA

Hand Relief Lotion with Shea Butter

CLARISONIC

Skin exfoliator

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MEDICAL L’OCCITANE Shea Butter Hand Cream

WINTER SKIN WOES CONT. cleanser, followed immediately by a moisturizer. Exfoliate every other day with either a Clarisonic brush or washcloth – no harsh scrubs are needed in the winter. Keep steaming hot water to a minimum, as it is drying, and moisturize the body with a product that contains hyaluronic acid, shea butter or ceramides. A humidifier in the bedroom at night is a must. Also, it’s not best to start an aggressive acne regimen in the winter because the medication can be very drying and less tolerated in the winter. It’s best to start when the skin isn’t irritated already.

Any tips on managing dry hands and feet in the winter? Hands get particularly dry and cracked in the winter due to low humidity levels in the air and frequent hand washing to avoid getting a cold or the flu. Soothe them with a hand cream containing shea butter. The Body Shop or L’Occitane make good ones. Apply generously and follow with cotton gloves worn overnight. Also avoid overdoing the hand sanitizer, because the alcohol content is extremely drying on the hands. Don’t neglect your feet; most women will slack off from getting regular pedicures. If the heels are allowed to get too thick in the winter, the skin fissures and develops deep cracks, which is painful and potentially a source for bacteria to get in.

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What over-the-counter products would you recommend for breakouts? An over-the-counter acne wash that contains salicylic acid used in the shower can be helpful.

Any tips on proper exfoliation for my skin type? Although exfoliation is important, it’s easy to overdo it in the winter. Exfoliation once or twice weekly is all that’s needed in the winter, with immediate moisturizer application to follow the exfoliation.

EditorÕ s Pick DEBORAH LIPPMANN Rich Girl Anti-Aging Hand and Cuticle Cream

ACNE-PRONE SKIN should steer clear of harsh scrubs, beads or granules. They benefit from a clay/glycolic mask and should possibly see a dermatologist for a chemical peel. NORMAL SKIN can take a bit more pressure and benefits from a device like Clarisonic and a chemical exfoliant like a prescription retinoic acid. For SENSITIVE SKIN, not exfoliating too often is key. People with sensitive skin should exfoliate only two times/week and can ease into an over-thecounter retinol routine for the best results.

THE BODY SHOP Spa Wisdom Africa Honey & Beeswax Hand and Foot Butter CERAVE Hydrating Cleanser

Dr. Elizabeth Tanzi is co-director of the Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery in Washington, D.C., and has made appearances on such shows as The Dr. Oz Show and Oprah, to name a few.

Sudoku is a logic-based number placement puzzle where the objective is to fill the 9x9 grid. Do you have to use arithmetic? No! Nothing has to add up to anything else. Instead, you solve the puzzle with reasoning and logic. Each column, each row and each of the nine 3x3 boxes should contain the digits from 1 to 9, only one time each (that is, exclusively). Find the answers at www.living-magazine.com and click on the Sudoku link.

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013

Choosing the RIGHT CARE for a LOVED ONE with Dementia For most people, choosing care for a loved one with dementia does not involve a great deal of advance planning. Decisions are often made with a sense of urgency that can lead to a move into a community that may not provide optimal support for the loved one’s needs. But it doesn’t have to be that way.

Start With An Accurate Diagnosis Before determining the appropriate level of care for a loved one with memory challenges, consult with your physician to confirm whether these challenges are part of the normal aging process or something more serious. Warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease may include: difficulty performing familiar tasks; disorientation to time and place; problems with abstract thinking; changes in mood, behavior or personality; and/or loss of initiative, among others.

Engage Special Expertise For Special Needs Serving as primary caregiver for a loved one with Alzheimer’s can be difficult and especially painful. It’s important to take their individual needs into account when evaluating options for care. Physical and behavioral needs, as well as life history, each play integral roles. At Sterling House® Waxahachie, Clare Bridge® provides specialized programs and accommodations for those with memory challenges. Staff members are carefully selected and trained to understand the unique challenges associated with dementia.

Each resident receives an individualized approach, depending on the progression of the disease, and has access to 24-hour nursing services. “The Clare Bridge concept has evolved over more than 25 years by continually embracing the latest ideas in good Alzheimer’s care practice, coupled with the experience of caring for thousands of individuals with dementia and their families,” says Jan Weiss, Executive Director at Sterling House Waxahachie. The Clare Bridge Dining Program, recognized as “Best of the Best” in the industry by the Assisted Living Federation of America (ALFA), is just one example of how Clare Bridge leverages its specialized expertise to enhance residents’ quality of life. This unique program—designed by a team of specialists to help

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residents enjoy successful dining experiences—offers dementiafriendly menus, individualized dining assistance, a supportive environment and consistent seating arrangements.

Provide Familiarity In Daily Living Establishing routines provides a reassuring sense of safety and meaning for memory-impaired individuals. Clare Bridge features peaceful surroundings in a home-like setting to recreate environments people have enjoyed throughout their lives. Interior spaces are scaled and decorated like those of a private home, and enclosed walking areas give residents the opportunity to safely explore their surroundings. The Clare Bridge Daily Path provides a gentle structure to each day that targets specific needs of those with various types and levels of dementia. It features daily mental exercises, physical and life skills activities and person-centered life-enrichment programming to help those with dementia maintain abilities and encourage the use of their remaining skills. “One of the great challenges of memory care is providing a seamless blend of professional services in an environment that is comfortable and stress-free,” said Jan Weiss, Executive Director at Sterling House Waxahachie. “From our building design to our carefully selected staff and specialized programming, we focus on the individual needs of each resident and family we serve.”

“One of the great challenges of memory care is providing a seamless blend of professional services in an environment that is comfortable and stress-free” -Jan Weiss In addition to quality memory care, Sterling House Waxahachie provides Personalized Assisted Living for seniors who require some help with routine activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing or medication management. Care plans offer an ideal blend of convenience and support, enabling residents to live as independently as possible. Located at 2250 Brown Street, Sterling House Waxahachie is owned and operated by Brookdale Senior Living®, the nation’s largest provider of senior accommodations and related services. For more information, call (972) 937-2600.

STERLING HOUSE WAXAHACHIE Personalized Assisted Living Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care 2250 Brown Street, Waxahachie, Texas 75165

877-655-7138 www.brookdaleliving.com ®

Reg. U.S. Patent and TM Office

Facility No. 000902

MEDICAL

Under

Pressure BY R. galen kemp, m.d.

Glaucoma is an eye disease characterized by gradual damage to the optic nerve over a period of time, often caused by high pressure in the eye (intraocular pressure). The optic nerve is the cable that transmits visual information from the eye to the brain to be processed. So if the optic nerve is damaged, one will lose vision the same as cutting the cable to your T.V. will cause one to lose the image on one’s T.V. The most common form of glaucoma is called primary open-angle glaucoma (poag). a fluid called aqueous humor fills the front chamber (anterior chamber) of the eye and is continuously produced by a structure called the ciliary body. The fluid then flows out through a filtering channel called the trabecular meshwork. Some people inherit a tendency for that meshwork to be too tight so that there is a lot of resistance to the outflow of the aqueous humor. That causes the pressure in the eye to be too high. if the pressure is chronically too high for the optic nerve to tolerate, the nerve becomes damaged over a period of months and years, resulting in gradual blindness. The most common form of glaucoma is hereditary, but that doesn’t necessarily mean one has to have a known family history of glaucoma to be susceptible. There may be more than one gene responsible for glaucoma, so even if neither parent has glaucoma, the right combination of genes from both parents can cause it in the offspring. on the other hand, if there is a known family history of glaucoma, your gene pool puts you at greater risk for glaucoma than the general population and you should be more diligent about having your eyes checked regularly to

living-magazine.com // JanUaRY-FeBRUaRY 2013

make sure you don’t have it. The statistically normal range of pressure in the eye is considered to be between 10 and 20 millimeters of mercury (mmHg). pressures over 20 mmHg put an eye at higher risk for glaucoma. The higher the pressure, the higher the risk. But we are not clones of each other, and we all have optic nerves with differing susceptibilities to intraocular pressure. Therefore, many people with pressures higher than 20 mmHg never have a problem. conversely, some people with pressures below 20 mmHg will have glaucoma (called normal-tension glaucoma). glaucoma usually doesn’t cause any pain or other symptoms until it is too late. it is a “silent killer” of the optic nerve. it starts causing loss to your peripheral vision insidiously so that you are not aware of it until very late in the disease. By the time you sense that something is wrong, most of your optic nerve is irreversibly damaged. So eye doctors are always looking for the risk factors for glaucoma, such as high intraocular pressures, family history of glaucoma and optic nerve head clues, to mention a few. if there is suspicion for

glaucoma, several tests are done to establish whether or not there is damage to the optic nerve resulting in the typical loss of vision seen in glaucoma. There are many varieties of glaucoma other than poag, but all result in vision loss due to damage to the optic nerve secondary to intraocular pressure. Fortunately, most glaucoma can be successfully treated if it is discovered in time. eye drops, laser and other surgical procedures can all be used to drop the intraocular pressure to a safe range. However, any damage that is already done to the optic nerve is permanent. a person who is already blind from glaucoma cannot have their vision restored. We can only prevent progression of the disease from the point at which it is discovered and the pressure is lowered. Then we prevent more damage going forward. The bottom line is everyone should get their eyes checked regularly. if you have a family history of glaucoma, you should have your eyes examined every one to two years at a minimum. vision loss in glaucoma is very preventable if detected in time. The people who go blind from glaucoma are people who neglect to have their eyes checked until it is too late. don’t let a very treatable disease ruin your outlook on life due to self-neglect. Dr. Kemp has been practicing ophthalmology in Waxahachie for almost 30 years. He is a founding partner of Surgery center of Waxahachie, where he currently serves as medical director.

living-magazine.com // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013

MEDICAL

Are you tired? Run Down? Listless?

Do You Poop Out at Parties?

BY YOLANDA BRADY, M.D.

Are you tired all the time? Do you lack energy to enjoy tasks that used to give you pleasure? Are you losing your hair? Is your skin dry? Are you always cold? Does it seem impossible to lose weight? Maybe your menstrual cycle is abnormal and you find yourself constantly constipated.

Congenital hypothyroidism, caused by a congenital birth disorder, is less common and can occur in 1 in 3000 births. A newborn can be born with a defective thyroid or without a thyroid - thought to be an inherited abnormality. Although not common, all newborns are screened for thyroid disease.

All of these may be common symptoms of low thyroid - a condition known as hypothyroidism. January is thyroid awareness month, so it is a good time to talk frankly about one of the most common thyroid disorders. Other common complaints that could be associated with low thyroid are swelling and generalized aches and pains. Low thyroid can cause problems you might not be aware of, such as changes in your cholesterol, slowed heart rate and infertility. Hypothyroidism can affect how you feel and how you look.

A deficiency in iodine, found in table salt, is rare in this country. Autoimmune thyroid disease is when your body produces antibodies against your thyroid gland. Sometimes this occurs because of a virus or because of genetics. This is known as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. A blood test can screen for Hashimoto’s. If a virus affects your thyroid, it can cause a period of an inactive thyroid. However, the thyroid will usually start functioning again. There is also a form of thyroid disease that can occur with pregnancy. If left untreated, it can cause a miscarriage, a premature delivery or preeclampsia.

Your thyroid gland is a small, butterflyshaped gland at the base of your neck, just below your Adam’s apple. This gland, which secretes thyroid hormone in the form of thyroxin or T4 and T3, is important for our metabolism. Low thyroid, or hypothyroidism, can be caused by loss of some part of the thyroid gland, a virus, an autoimmune disease or iodine deficiency. Certain medications such as Lithium, used to treat bipolar disorder, can also cause hypothyroidism.

When thyroid hormone is low in your body, you do not feel good. Most people become very tired, lethargic, maybe depressed. Menstrual periods can be irregular. When the thyroid is low, the brain responds by releasing TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) to try and stimulate the thyroid to produce more hormones. TSH is the most common blood test used by physicians to screen for hypothyroidism. Left undiagnosed, hypothyroidism can lead to severe depression and dementia.

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013

It is easy to screen for thyroid disease by a simple blood test to measure TSH. If the TSH is elevated, your brain is responding to low levels of hormone in your body. Those at risk of thyroid disease include: * Women over the age of 50. * A person that has been diagnosed with an autoimmune disease. * A person with a close relative diagnosed with an autoimmune disease. * Someone that has received radiation to the neck or chest, or has had previous treatment for hyperactive thyroid or thyroid surgery. Low thyroid can be treated with a pill containing a synthetic thyroid. Most of the time, you will be on medication for the rest of your life. Remember: if you experience some of these symptoms, consult your physician. Having these symptoms does not mean you have hypothyroidism, and some may not experience these symptoms or may only have mild symptoms. See your doctor and have a simple blood test to check if you have low thyroid. Treatment may not cure all your symptoms, but it is vital to your long-term health.

DR. BRADY is board certified and has been practicing medicine in Ellis County for 23 years. She did her residency at the University of California, where she served as chief resident and associate professor of medicine.

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013

MEDICAL

{

HEALTH & WELLNESS

}

RESOLVE TO MAKE A

FRESH START SUBMITTED BY BAYLOR MEDICAL CENTER

CHANGE YOUR CHOICES, CHANGE YOUR LIFE If you’re struggling to shed some pounds, don’t get discouraged. Use the New Year as an excuse to try something different! If you’ve spent hours in the gym but are still not achieving results, perhaps it is time to look at your diet. If you’ve made diet modifications that aren’t working for you, it might be time to consult a nutrition professional.

STARTING AN EXERCISE ROUTINE? Here’s how to get off on the right foot. Are you new to working out and don’t know where to start? Or maybe you’re tired of your old routine and need a reset. Whatever your situation, taking the time to plan a proper exercise regimen will lead to longer-lasting results.

HERE ARE SEVEN STEPS FOR GETTING STARTED: 1. Check with your doctor. Before donning spandex and hoisting a dumbbell, talk to your doctor about what type of exercise your health will enable you to do. Even

5. 6. 7.

people with health problems are cleared to exercise most of the time, but you may need to alter your routine or avoid certain activities. Set goals. Do you want to lose weight, increase endurance, build muscle or ease joint pain? Ask yourself what it is you want to achieve and write down your goals, including dates by which you want to achieve them. Build a routine. No matter your specific goals, every exercise routine should consist of three parts: cardio, strength training and flexibility training. Talk to a sports medicine doctor or make an appointment with a personal trainer to devise a routine. Get the right gear. To avoid injury, make sure you’re wearing the proper clothing and footwear for the activity you’re doing. And replace as necessary. Running shoes should last about 350 to 500 miles. Recruit a partner. Working out with a friend or loved one will keep you both motivated. Envision rewards. When you meet your goals, reward yourself. Just don’t use food or unhealthy habits as the prize. Take it slow. Now that you have a plan in place, get out there! But don’t do too much too fast. Start slowly and work your way up in speed and intensity. And revisit your goals every so often to stay motivated.

STRESS LESS THIS YEAR Let’s face it, stress is a part of life. If left unchecked, however, stress can lead to anxiety, high blood pressure, insomnia, digestive issues and a host of other health problems. “Whether with medication or meditation, when you’re in a situation of acute stress, the biggest thing is to allow yourself to calm down,” says Katie Vick, M.D., a family medicine physician on the medical staff at Baylor Medical Center at Waxahachie.

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013

Here, she offers five quick calming techniques:

RELAX YOUR MUSCLES “Close your eyes and relax every muscle, one muscle at a time, starting from the head and going down to the feet—especially relaxing the shoulders and neck muscles,” Dr. Vick says.

BREATHE DEEPLY Slow, deep breaths can help your body and your mind take a break from a frenetic pace.

CHANGE YOUR SCENERY “If you’re in a crowded room, it can make your body tense,” Dr. Vick says. Stepping away from the environment can help.

GET MOVING “Physical activity is very good for stress,” she says. Release those stress-busting endorphins by taking a brisk walk, climbing a few flights of stairs or practicing a couple of yoga positions.

TALK ABOUT IT “Do you have a spouse or good friend you can call? Let them know the feelings you’re having. Often, they can help you walk through the situation and gain perspective on the severity of it,” she says. Still stressing? A medical professional can help you determine whether your “stress” is really anxiety or even depression. “So much of anxiety is figuring out the cause,” she says. “A medical professional can help you do that.”

HELP WHEN YOU NEED IT If you’re feeling overly stressed or anxious, talk to your doctor. For a referral to a physician on the medical staff at Baylor Waxahachie call 1-800-4BAYLOR or visit FindDrRight.com.

living-magazine.com // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013

Dream CINDY BURCH

TRIPPING For whatever reason, some people spend their life dreaming about places they would love to visit but never do, while others find ways to fulfill their dreams no matter the cost or sacrifice. Obviously there are places some of us would love to visit but just can’t afford, be it time, money or circumstance. As a contributing writer for Living Magazine, I have the opportunity throughout the year to share with you some of my travels. I am amazed at the number of readers who tell me they live vicariously through my articles and always wish they could go to the places I write about. My reply is always the same: “What are you waiting for?” There is so much to see and learn in the world and so many destinations to experience. I’m not big on making New Year’s resolutions, but I would like to encourage you to not dream away your future. Set a goal and do it. As Benjamin Franklin said, “Never leave that ‘til tomorrow which you can do today.” My father never wanted to travel overseas until he had seen all of the United States. Unfortunately, he died at age 65, before he accomplished either goal. So often we get caught up in the details of day-to-day living that we don’t take the time to seize an opportunity. We’ve got deadlines and commitments, problems and priorities, distractions and obstacles, and though we really want more fulfillment in our lives, we don’t often take the time we need to rest, relax and recharge. A friend retired from her job

last year and was looking forward to traveling with her husband. Unfortunately, after she retired her husband died suddenly and they never got the opportunity to make those memories together. My father-in-law was a banker for years and is very conservative about everything. Both my in-laws held back from experiencing a lot of extras in life, fearing they might one day become a financial burden on their two sons. Although that is an admirable trait, we encouraged them to enjoy their lives and quit worrying about a future they have no control over. After years of persuasion, they are now more relaxed. At sixty years old they applied for passports and started traveling the world. They even got certified in scuba diving. Now, in their seventies, they have been to Canada, Mexico, Belize, Honduras, Croatia, Italy, England, Spain, Turkey and the Turks and Caicos Islands. Another example of seizing the day is my dear friend and long time Ellis County resident, Beverly Worthington. After raising a family and being a caregiver to her husband for years, she decided to start doing some things that she might have thought twice about earlier in her life. At age 70, she went hang gliding in Brazil, did a canopy zip line tour in Costa Rica, climbed Machu Picchu in Peru, trekked with me in the underground world of Cappadocia, and even climbed the Great Wall of Chi-

na - twice. Now 76, she recently sailed the Adriatic coastline with us after traveling to India, Alaska and the Holy Land. Whether your ideal vacation involves a passport or an RV, don’t just watch the Travel Channel, live it. Visit the places you have always wanted to see and experience the sites you have dreamed of. So often, people wait until they are SEIZE THE DAY AND too old to travel. VOW TO MAKE THIS In many parts of YEAR THE BEGINNING the world, you won’t find handiOF SOME NEW LIFE cap accessible ADVENTURES. areas like we have in America. I suggest you travel while you are strong and healthy enough to get around. Benjamin Franklin shared with the world the secret of his success. We can’t put it off until tomorrow, because tomorrow may not come. It’s a real challenge to face the present, because it means you can no longer say, “One of these days I’ll take that Alaskan cruise, drive across the country, ski the Swiss Alps or climb Mt. Kilimanjaro.” Seize the day and vow to make this year the beginning of some new life adventures.

Cindy Burch

Cindy Burch and her husband Andrew own and operate The Dove’s Nest Restaurant and Gifts in historic downtown Waxahachie. Cindy’s own cookbook, “The Dove’s Nest Restaurant: New American Recipes From a Historic Texas Town,” has sold more than 20,000 copies.

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2013

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