May 2014 Ellis County Living Magazine

Page 1

FASHION RECIPES HOME TRAVEL HEALTH MEDICAL

Living

Health & Wellness



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


46TH ANNUAL

June 7th and 8th, 2014

Gingerbread Trail Tour of Homes sChedule oF eVents saturday and sunday

Chris & Michael Roberts

Sam & Laura Beth Anderson

802 Brown

303 East Marvin

• gingerbread trail tour of homes – 5 historic homes featured, free buses provided * • gingerbread trail tour of homes bike route * • gingerbread trail arts & Crafts Fair at getzendaner park * • getzendaner park antique market at Chautauqua * • Free historic waxahachie inc. ellis County Courthouse tours • Free acoustic music in getzendaner park * • getzendaner park food booths * • getzendaner park children’s activities * • in addition to downtown businesses and restaurants featuring specials, several new restaurants and stores will open.

saturday only

Chris Gullo

Paul & heather Manigrasso

207 brown

605 west main

Lynn Fontenot

1107 marvin

• downtown Farmers market south of downtown waxahachie courthouse square on rogers street • midlothian Classic wheels car show on the courthouse square from 10am to 2pm with many prizes and awards * • kBeC broadcast from the car show on the courthouse square from 10am to 2pm • ellis County art association plein aire art event on the courthouse square at 113 Franklin & art sale saturday evening * • Children’s plein aire art event on the courthouse square at 10am saturday • living magazine metal art expo at 217 e main street * • Fly-in pancake breakfast and aircraft display at midway regional airport • Free movie, “places in the heart,” on the courthouse square at about 9pm • master gardeners garden tour of waxahachie gardens from downtown Farmers market location *indicates event benefiting ellis County museum.

TICKETS: ADULTS $15 • CHILDREN $7 PURChASe BeFoRe MAY 24Th FoR DiSCoUnTeD RATeS

WWW.GINGERBREADTRAIL.NET • 972.937.0681



Living

Loryn Brown Leonard

Ron Tucker

Mike Hatcher

Dave Patton

Eileen Horton

Mike Hatcher

Ron Tucker

Eileen Horton

Loryn Brown Leonard

Ron Tucker

Mike Hatcher

Eileen Horton

Loryn Brown Leonard

Dave Patton

ELLIS COUNTY

MAGAZINE

SRC Diamond Ranch Bar B Cue


Earthtones Outdoor Living

810 E. Main | Midlothian | 972.723.0702

www.EarthTonesGreenery.com

Come see us for the best prices in hardscapes, 810 E. Main • Midlothian 972.723.0702

Any Size Cedar Cabana with 30-year shingle roof

$350.00 OFF

w w w. E a r t h To ne s G re e ne r y. co m M i n i mu m o ne p e r c usto me r. Not va l id w it h ot he r of fe r.

20% OFF any

Single Regular Price Item (must be in stock item at garden center) w w w. E a r t h To ne s G re e ne r y. co m Minimum one per customer not valid with other coupons or promotions.

Free consultation and estimates!

810 E. Main • Midlothian 9 7 2 . 7 2 3. 0 7 0 2

fireplaces, cabanas, arbors & outdoor kitchens!


saVe the date:

September, 27th 2014 what:

the ellis County sPCa

Wish Upon a Paw Gala where: the midlothian Conference Center

honored guest: dale hansen of wFaa

aCtual shelter do

dinner and live & silent auctions

g: Zita

aCtiVities:

to BeCome a sPonsor! also now accepting donations for the live & silent auctions

CParis PhotograPh y

Call us today

ellis County sPCa

adoPt • Volunteer • donate 250 Fm 878 • waXahaChie • 972.935.0756 • ellisCountysPCa.org



TABLE OF CONTENTS 58 UPDATING DOWNTOWN: A PEEK AT WHAT’S GOING ON

2014

32 14

LOCAL FASHION TO DRESS UP THE SUMMER

MAY/JUNE

FASHION

LOCAL FASHION 14 SUMMER BEAUTY TIPS 20

LIFE & STYLE

EDITOR’S PICKS

MOLTO BENE! ITALIAN WINES 24 SLIM DOWN FOR SUMMER: WATER AEROBICS 26 NONPROFIT: GET UP AND GIVE BACK 30 BOOKS: EDITOR’S PICKS 32 THE SCENIC ROUTE: SOUTH DAKOTA 34 RECIPES TO LIVE BY 38 WEDDING TREND UPDATE 40 A MOTHER’S TALE: MAGICAL JOURNEY 42

> MAKING THE OLD NEW:

DOWNTOWN WAXAHACHIE 46

HOME & GARDEN CUTTING THE CLUTTER 52 MAY & JUNE PLANTS 54 WHAT’S BUGGING YOU? 58 SOUTHWEST LANDSCAPES 60

MEDICAL

STOMACHING THE TRUTH ABOUT GLUTEN 62 QUALITY TIME 64 SEASONAL ALLERGIES 66

> CINDY BURCH: SATISFIED IN SEATTLE 68 8

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // MAY-JUNE 2014


Briarpatch

Mother’s Day

Cards & Gifts for All Occassions!

Father’s Day

Largest Brighton Selection in Ellis County The Briarpatch #1

The Briarpatch #2

The Briarpatch #3

BOUTIQUE 404 W. Main St., Waxahachie 972-937-7717

HOME DECOR 405 Water St., Waxahachie 972-937-1441

Hallmark 507 N. Hwy 77, Ste. 406, Waxahachie 972-923-1884


Living

ELLIS COUNTY

MAGAZINE

volUme 10 iSSUe 3 PuBlisher cinDY camP CreatiVe direCtor JenniFeR KemP editor KaTHRYn KemP assoCiate CreatiVe direCtor linDSeY KeeneY adVertising Pamela mccRoRY cHRiS BenneTT CFo SUSan KoSoRiS intern TRiSTa mccoRmicK 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 2014, ecl media, inc.© all rights reserved. For advertising information, please contact ellis county living magazine at 972.935.0938 or info@living-magazine.com. 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.

Follow us on Facebook, Pinterest & Twitter! facebook.com/elliscountyliving pinterest.com/eclivingmag twitter.com/ecliving

guarantee you’ll receive ellis county living magazine by subscribing today!

go to www.living-magazine.com

This issue we regretfully say goodbye to our editor, Kathryn Kemp. For over two years, she has led the magazine with her spunky style and authoritative vision, bringing a creative and modern look to living magazine. While we wish her success in her new field of study, we will miss her leadership, bright smile and the sense of teamwork she instilled in our staff. good luck, Kat!

JenniFeR is the creative director for living magazine. She is a perfectionist who works around the clock to make sure the magazine maintains its high design standard. While ad design and page design are two very different worlds, her charming and positive nature keeps the two sides of magazine production working well together. Send questions or comments to jennifer@living-magazine.com. KaTHRYn is the editor of living magazine. She earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Texas at austin and has a curious nature that drives her to always be asking questions and learning about the world around her. in her spare time, she enjoys traveling, spending time with friends and family and playing games. contact Kathryn at kathryn@living-magazine.com.

linDSeY is the associate creative director for living magazine. She grew up in ennis and graduated from Texas a&m University with a degree in telecommunication media studies. She enjoys spending time with friends and family, shopping and traveling, especially to her favorite destination, las vegas. contact lindsey at lindsey@living-magazine.com Pamela is the advertising representative for Waxahachie and Red oak. She has an extensive background in sales and advertising and runs a promotional advertising business. She enjoys spending time with her family and friends, cooking, entertaining and traveling. contact her at pamela@eclmedia.com.

cHRiS is the advertising representative for ennis, Waxahachie and midlothian. He grew up in Red oak and volunteers with the SPca in his spare time. in February, he married the love of his life, Robin, and they are happily settling in to married life together. contact him at chris@living-magazine.com.

SUSan is the chief financial officer of living magazine. a University of Texas business school graduate, Susan has 25 years of experience in business management, marketing and accounting. She has three sons and enjoys volunteering, cooking, reading and traveling. contact her at accounting@eclmedia.com.

and click on “subscriptions.”

10

living-magazine.com // maY-JUne 2014

STaFF PHoToS BY maRie Q PHoTogRaPHY coveR PHoTo BY THiBaUT | THiBaUTDeSign.com


Well this is weird. I can’t believe I am sitting here writing my final editor’s note for the magazine…it really does feel like just yesterday (or maybe like just last month) that I was writing my first one! I cannot even begin to express how much I’ve loved my time here and how much I will miss doing what I do. I have grown and learned so much and have really enjoyed getting to know so many of our readers and members of the community. I was never hurting for content because there is an endless supply of interesting, creative, intelligent, hard-working (and the list goes on) characters around here, and I am beyond grateful to have worked in such a capacity with these people. And of course, the people I work with every day at the office have changed my life in so many ways. It will be strange, to say the least, not to see them every day.

BEING CALLED THE EDITOR

COMING UP WITH NEW IDEAS

From going out to local stores to pick out pieces, to taking photos (or letting an intern take them), to piecing outfits together like one big puzzle, to picking out fun themes and great headlines, and everything in between, those pages have been so much fun (and consumed many, many hours of my life).

IZAMAR LOREDO

I love being creative, and I’ve found a job that is the perfect outlet for all my pent-up creativity!

LOCATION Downtown Waxahachie is beautiful, unique and interesting. I love getting to work in such a cute area of the county!

Hi everybody!

GETTING TO KNOW MY COMMUNITY Even though I’ve lived in Red Oak for so long, I don’t know many people in the community. I’m so excited to get to know all of you as we establish a relationship through the magazine!

Some Things I’ve Loved: FASHION PAGES

Introducing Living Magazine’s new Editor:

Right out of college? Yeah, it feels really good.

WATCHING MY IDEAS COME TO LIFE While it’s so much fun to brainstorm ideas, write and edit text, come up with brilliant headlines and collect pictures, the real magic happens when Jennifer puts it all together and designs the page layout. I am always pleased to see my collage of words and pictures come to life and am so proud of how beautiful this magazine is.

SCOTT DORSETT PHOTOGRAPHY

EDITOR’S NOTE

Things I’m Excited About:

I am so excited to be the new Editor of Ellis County Living Magazine! A little bit about me: I just graduated for The University of Texas at Austin (hook ‘em) with a degree in corporate communication. I’m from Red Oak, where I’ve lived for almost 14 years, so I’m also a Hawk at heart. My first internship ever was here at the magazine the summer after my freshman of college, and when Kathryn decided she would be leaving she told me I should apply for the job… and here I am! I am already bursting with so many new ideas for the magazine, and I am so tremendously thrilled to get to share them with each and every one of you. I encourage you all to send me your ideas, suggestions and comments as I work to keep delivering the fantastic content and quality that Ellis County Living Magazine is known for.

ADVENTURES

EVERYTHING

From late night trips to Walgreens and early morning runs to Oma’s, to treks to the dollar store and journeys through the woods at Getzendaner park, it was imperative that we build in some fun during our long weeks at the office near deadline. I especially loved swinging at the park with Lindsey and getting very lost for way too long in the woods, then walking down a very busy Main St. because that’s where we ended up. The cats in space leggings I had on were intended only for office use, but that is not how it worked out.

This “Some Things I’ve Loved” idea sounded great at first, but really it doesn’t make sense. I have loved everything - planning articles for the new issue; working with local writers; learning so much about everything ever; finding hilarious stock photos; making magic happen with Photoshop; losing our minds when we haven’t slept in well over 24 hours because it is deadline and that’s what we do; eating questionable snacks at the office; talking about kitties at staff meetings; wine tastings; celebratory staff lunches and dinners; the list could go on and on and on….


aroUND toWN

A LOT IS HAPPENING IN ELLIS COUNTY... to learn aBout uPComing eVents inCorPorating eXerCise and Fundraising, CheCK out Page 30.

super CheVy show

thirsty thursdays smoothie party – 90 days to Feeling Fit program

48th annual national polka FestiVal

MAY 17-18 Texas motorplex, ennis visit texasmotorplex.com for more.

MAY 1, 6:45 To 7:45 P.M. every Thursday through the end of may Yoga 4 love, Red oak This program offers free nutrition and health coaching while you drink smoothies made from healthy whole food.

MAY 23-25 Downtown ennis authentic cuisine, sounds and costumes of czech and Slovac heritage. For more, call the ennis cvB at 972.878.4748 or visit nationalpolkafestival.com.

waXahaChie Community theatre: dirty rotten sCoundrels

gingerBread ClassiC golF tournament

MAY 2-3, 7:30 P.M. & MAY 4, 2:30 P.M. chautauqua auditorium, Waxahachie Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for seniors & students. visit waxahachiecommunitytheatre.com for more.

moms and daughters tea

MAY 10, 10 A.M. Sims library, Waxahachie Sign up at the front desk of the library. visit simslib.org for more.

wine and musiC

MAY 10, 5 To 8 P.M. Sugar Ridge Winery, ennis Bring a lawn chair or blanket and sip some wine while listening to Studebakers classic Rock 50s, 60s and 70s band. Parking $10 call 972.842.2999 for more.

ennis puBliC theatre: train to danger

WeeKenDS MAY 16 ThRoUGh JUne 1 - FRiDAYS & SATURDAYS, 7:30 P.M. - SUnDAYS, 2:30 P.M. 2705-c n. Kaufman St., ennis For more information, call 972.878.7529 or visit ennispublictheatre.com.

JUne 6, 11 A.M. Waxahachie country club Registration and lunch at 11 a.m., shotgun start at 1 p.m., then at 6 p.m. enjoy a happy hour with a nacho bar and awards. visit waxahachiechamber. com for more.

panCake BreakFast & Fly-in

JUne 7, 8 To 11 A.M. mid-Way Regional airport, midlothian classic airplanes, open cockpit biplane rides, full-motion simulator instructional flights, helicopter rides, fly-overs, live music, children’s activities and more. Tickets $8 for adults and children 8 and over, $3 for kids under 8. For more, visit mid-wayregional.com or call 972.923.0080.

2nd annual metal art eXhiBition

JUne 7, 9 A.M. To 3 P.M. Frank’s Urban collection 217 e. main, Waxahachie Shop recycled, reused and repurposed art from local artists. For art’s sake! visit metalartexpo.com for more.

kids yoga Camp with lisa luCy

JUne 9, 11 A.M. To 12:30 P.M. a fun way to get your 5- to 10-year-olds moving this summer. They’ll learn yoga, healthy eating and how to build a healthy selfesteem. light snacks provided every day. Register by June 8 for a rate of $35, register at the door for $50.

waXahaChie Juneteenth parade and CeleBration JUne 19 Downtown Waxahachie

musiC under the son musiC FestiVal By unity in the Community JUne 20, 7-11 P.M. veteran’s memorial Park, ennis Free for the family. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets. visit unityinthecommunityofennis.org for more.

ennis puBliC theatre: aliCe in wonderland

JUne 26 & 27, 7 P.M. JUne 28, 2:30 P.M. & 7 P.M. JUne 29, 2:30 P.M. 2705-c n. Kaufman St., ennis For more information, call 972.878.7529 or visit ennispublictheatre.com.

waXahaChie gun & kniFe show

JUne 28, 9 A.M. To 5 P.M. & JUne 29, 9 A.M. To 4 P.M. Waxahachie civic center Buy, sell and trade. admission is $8, parking is free. For more call 918.658.4500.

For updates and chances to win free stuff, be sure to “like” us on Facebook and visit our blog at www.living-magazine.com.

12

living-magazine.com // maY-JUne 2014

Do you have an event you want everyone to know about? Send an e-mail to: eDiToR@LiVinG-MAGAZine.CoM


shopping

waxahachie WAXAHACHIE CINCO DE MAYO

For show times and ticket information, visit WaxaOFS.com

2ND THURSDAY LADIES’ NIGHT OUT

9TH ANNUAL PAINT HISTORIC WAXAHACHIE PLEIN AIRE PAINTOUT

MAY 2-3 Downtown Waxahachie

MAY 8, 5 TO 8 P.M. Every Month in Downtown Waxahachie with Participating Merchants

WAXAHACHIE OLDFASHIONED SINGING

MAY 16-17 Chautauqua Auditorium, Getzendaner Park

MAY 31-JUNE 8 Top Texas landscape artists will be painting Waxahachie’s historic downtown and residential areas. Visit elliscountyart.net.

SINCE 1850

GINGERBREAD TRAIL HISTORIC HOME TOUR AND ARTS & CRAFTS SHOW

JUNE 7-8, TOURS 10 A.M. TO 4 P.M. Sponsored by the Ellis County Museum. Tickets are $15 for adults, $7 for children, available at 201 S. College. For more info, call 972.937.0681 or visit gingerbreadtrail.net.

2ND THURSDAY LADIES’ NIGHT OUT JUNE 12, 5 TO 8 P.M. Downtown Waxahachie

CHECK IT OUT

These pillow quotes add character and pizzazz to any room! Michele Hampton, the creative force behind Check It Out, will customize one for you! She and her staff can design, transform and decorate your home from top to bottom. 212 S Rogers Street, Waxahachie 972.938.2403 CHECKITOUTFABRICS.NET

CROOKED CREEK FARMS

We have your Mother’s Day & Father’s Day gifts covered! From unique antiques and gadgets to treasures and silverware jewelry, Mom and Dad are sure to love a one-of-akind gift from Crooked Creek Farms! Store Hours: Thurs - Sat 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. & Sun 1 p.m. - 6 p.m. 510 W Main Street, Waxahachie 214.463.5169 | 510ANTIQUES.COM

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

WWW.DOWNTOWNWAXAHACHIE.COM

Bling It On Blingin’ Gypsy Boyce Feed & Grain Corp Brent Hughes Photography Carol’s Designs Catfish Plantation Check It Out Cherics Antiques Citizens National Bank of Texas College St Printing College St Restaurant Pub Common Threads Quilting Crafty Scrapper Crooked Creek Farms Antiques Doves Nest Restaurant El Mexicano Ellis County Abstract and Title Ellis County Art Association Ellis County Living Magazine Ellis County Museum Eubank Florist Gifts Frank’s Urban Collection FRESH at Villa Flora GG’s Vintage Home Gingerbread Antique Mall Grow My Biz hodge•podge Junction 22 KBEC Radio Klassy Klutter Main St Dental Maxwell Jewelry Multitudes Mosaic Madness My Father’s House NAPA Auto Parts/Pool Supplies NOW Magazine Old Town Villiage Antiques Pearman Oil LP Gas Inc Plain Jane Co The Red Barn Flea Market & Antiques Salon Friends SoCo Depot T Beresford Teresa McNiel - Coldwell Banker The Briarpatch The Shabby Sheep The Shop Toshio’s Taste of Japan & Klopfer House Town Square Title Waxahachie Daily Light Well Inked Custom Invitations Wray, Willett & Stoffer

4444444

Downtown

Members of the Waxahachie Downtown Merchants Association:

FREE

Parking Garage

LIVING-MAGAZINE.CnOM // Jeff MAY-JUNE erson2014 and at the corner of Jackso

13


Sweet Sum m

FASHION

TOP, Multitudes $32 MISS ME SHORTS, Briarpatch $79 NECKLACE, Stella & Dot $49 BRACELET, Chic Boutique $22.95 EARRINGS, Multitudes $15 SHOES, Briarpatch $48

14

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // MAY-JUNE 2014

DRESS, Briarpatch $59.95 KLUTCH CLUTCH, SoCo Depot $35 NECKLACE, Stella & Dot $69 EARRINGS, Stella & Dot $39 BRACELET, Stella & Dot $98 WEDGES, Chic Boutique $38.95

TOP, Multitudes $32 PANTS, Chic Boutique $35.95 BAG, Crooked Creek $68 NECKLACE, Multitudes $15 BRACELET, The Doves Nest SANDALS, Plain Jane $28.99


m mertime

TOP, Chic Boutique $32.95 SHORTS, Chic Boutique $20.95 BRIGHTON PURSE, Briarpatch $280 NECKLACE, Multitudes $32 BRACELET, Stella & Dot $59 SANDALS, Chic Boutique $19.95

DRESS, Briarpatch $119 BIG BUDDHA PURSE, Chic Boutique $79.95 NECKLACE, Multitudes $22 EARRINGS, Crooked Creek $28 BRIGHTON BRACELET, Briarpatch $88 SANDALS, Plain Jane $28.99

DRESS, Multitudes $46 NECKLACE, Briarpatch $14.99 BRACELET, Stella & Dot $59 EARRINGS, Briarpatch RING, Stella & Dot $29 SANDALS, Plain Jane $28.99 LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // MAY-JUNE 2014

15


Julianne Hough

FASHION

Briarpatch $29.95

Multitudes $36

Chic Boutique $34.95

Plain Jane $38.99

Chic Boutique $23.95

Briarpatch $76

Multitudes $39

Whether you take a short cut,

16

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // MAY-JUNE 2014

Multitudes $36

or the long way...


living-magazine.com // MAY-JUNE 2014

17


FASHION

Take time to stop and

smell the roses.

Briarpatch $28

Stella & Dot $98

SoCo Depot $39

Merle Norman $18

Multitudes $28 Doves Nest $11.95 18

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // MAY-JUNE 2014

Chic Boutique $35.95

Crooked Creek $68


living-magazine.com // MAY-JUNE 2014

19


FASHION

FACE

TRY A HOMEMADE PAPAYA PEEL:

{ BEAUTY }

NATURAL

FIXES

FOR THE THREE BIGGEST SKIN CONCERNS Feel like your bathroom cabinet is overloaded with solutions for dry skin and other epidermal dilemmas? You’re not alone. American women spend billions of dollars each year searching for the Fountain of Youth in a jar, and cosmetics companies are more than eager to sell you the next greatest potion. However, dermatologists nowadays are often recommending that people minimize their product usage, in part because there’s no evidence that $300 creams are worth their hefty price tag. That’s worth considering this spring as you clean out your medicine cabinet and ditch all those expired products that never really met your expectations.

20

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // MAY-JUNE 2014

OILY SKIN:

Buy fatty soaps. Standard soaps contain lye, which can be irritating as well as drying, but some soaps, such as Dove, contain extra amounts of fatty materials, such as tallow (animal fat), cocoa butter, lanolin, or olive oil and will moisturize better than a pricey cleansing cream or any standard-formula soap. And after you wash up, don’t dry your face completely; moisturizers are more effective when applied to slightly damp skin than to completely dry skin. When it comes to choosing moisturizers don’t assume that expensive creams are more effective. There’s no evidence they work better than coconut or almond oil. Just aim for something that doesn’t leave a residue, but rather soaks in nicely to the skin for sustainable moisture.

Oily skin tends to age better and develop fewer wrinkles than dry or normal skin. But it does require more attention, since you need to keep cleansing those overly productive pores. The key is a firm-but-gentle hand. You want to wash away dead skin cells, dirt and excess oil without scrubbing so hard that you cause irritation. (Ironically, if you overdo the scrubbing, your skin produces even more oil. Choose the right cleanser. Whether you prefer bar soap or liquid cleansers, avoid products that have added moisturizers (like Dove). Bar soaps such as Ivory, Dial or Lever 2000 are perfectly effective, though you can also use cleansers formulated specifically for oily skin (they’re likely to be more expensive). If you’re having acne outbreaks, choose an antibacterial soap formulated with benzoyl peroxide or triclosan. These discourage growth of acne-causing bacteria.

DOVE

BEAUTY BAR

|

According to a recent survey sponsored by a European skin care company, the primary concern among women, at least when it comes to their skin, is dryness, followed by wrinkles and oily skin. Natural skin remedies for these problems are always worth a try, considering that, quite often, they’re free and work just as well as over-the-counter products. Here are some ideas to try before breaking the bank for those storebought products.

DRY SKIN:

Grind 2 tablespoons of washed and peeled papaya in a food processor and add 1 tablespoon of dry oatmeal (which helps remove debris from the skin). Pat this mixture onto clean skin and let it set for 10 minutes, then remove it with a wet washcloth, using an outward, circular motion. Papaya is full of enzymes that help break down the outer layer of skin, minimizing wrinkles.

WRINKLES: The best thing you can do to stave off wrinkles is avoid sun exposure, whether that’s by using sunscreen, wearing a hat or sitting in the shade. Also, grab a pair of shades when you’re outside, as squinting can lead to crow’s feet around the eyes. If wrinkles have already set in, buy an inexpensive vitamin C cream, which helps build collagen and minimize wrinkles.

CETAPHIL

DAILY FACIAL CLEANSER

|

Saving

BY JOHNNIE SMITH


living-magazine.com // MAY-JUNE 2014

21


FASHION

Summer

HAIR

{ BEAUTY }

PROTECT HAIR FROM

TEXAS HEAT It’s that time of year where the soft springy breeze stills and the sun’s heat waves beam down harder. Our hair is first to be hit as it shines down our way, and protection is necessary. Sun and water can be damaging, leading to faded color, split ends and a brittle, dry texture. Not exactly the look you were going for, right? Fear not: there are plenty of tricks to protect your hair this summer so you can enjoy the warm weather without having to spend fall and winter repairing the damage.

USE UV-SHIELDING PRODUCTS. You slap sunscreen on your skin to prevent burns. Likewise, an array of products are specifically designed to protect your hair from UV rays. These can help prevent highlighted hair from lightening too quickly and looking fried and keep dark hair from turning brassy or red. Keep in mind that products always need to be applied to damp hair. Otherwise, they’ll sit on the surface and won’t sink into the hair.

CONSIDER YOUR GEOGRAPHY. Take into consideration where you live. Some spots geographically may get hit with more heat. Like, say, Texas, and other southern states or countries closer to the equator. It’s good to be mindful of that and cautious of possible damage you may be more susceptible to.

DAMPEN YOUR LOCKS. Spray some water on your hair before you go into the pool or ocean. It adds an extra layer of coating, so when you go swimming, your hair isn’t as likely to absorb 100 percent of the chlorinated water. You won’t have this huge concentration of chlorine or saltwater blast your hair and dry it out. Otherwise, if you’re starting out with dry blonde hair, there’s a good chance it will be green by the end of the summer.

GET A HAIRCUT. It’s always best to get a trim before summer. The sun will do extra damage to hair that’s already dry, so if you remove those dead ends, you’ll be in better shape. START IN THE SHOWER. If you’ve been out in the sun and forgot to protect your hair, you can still give it the nourishment it needs. Opt for a hydrating shampoo and conditioner. Make sure products don’t contain harsh sulfates, parabens or sodium chloride, which will weigh down your locks.

22

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // MAY-JUNE 2014

WEAR A HAT - OR SOMETHING CUTER. It’s one of the best ways to protect your hair from the sun’s rays. And if that baseball cap is killing your look? You could also opt for a scarf, a wide-brim floppy hat or a cowboy hat. Keep in mind that the sun can shine through certain straw hats, so it’s still smart to wear a protective product underneath.

Makeup Brush 101 There is a plethora of brushes out there, but do you really need seven different eye shadow brushes? Quality makeup brushes can be expensive, so it’s important to know what you need. One distinction to note is the difference between synthetic and natural bristles. Natural bristles hold and distribute pigment evenly. Opt for natural bristle brushes when applying anything powdered. Liquids will soak into natural bristles and cause them to clog or degrade. So reach for synthetic bristles when applying foundation or any cream formulas. I recommend you stock your beauty arsenal with these essential brushes:

FOUNDATION:

A synthetic brush. Can also be used for applying cream blush. You can use a flat (like a paint brush) or a rounded.

CONCEALER:

A narrow, synthetic brush with a slightly tapered edge.

BLUSH:

A soft medium-full round brush. Natural fiber is best.

EYE SHADOW:

A tapered, flat brush that is good for blending.

FAN BRUSH:

POWDER:

A big, soft naturalfiber brush.

A light brush that is great for highlighter. It’s also good for brushing away loose eye shadow.

CONTOURING:

EYELINER:

A soft brush with a flat, angled edge. Also used for bronzing.

A narrow, angled brush for applying gel liner or shadow as liner.

JOHNNIE is the owner/artist

behind the hair and makeup company Prettibloom Artistry. As a licensed cosmetologist, and with over 10 years’ experience in the beauty industry, her work and clientele has been seen both locally and nationwide. Contact her at johnnie@prettibloom.com.

EYELASH AND BROW COMB:

The side with the small, plastic comb is used for removing mascara clumps from lashes. The bristled side is for grooming eyebrows.

EYEBROW:

A firm, angled brush used for filling in eyebrows with brow powder. Go for something with coarser bristles.


living-magazine.com // MAY-JUNE 2014

23


LIFE & STYLE

{ WINE REVIEW }

MOLTO BENE!

BY JEFF KOSORIS

Italy. No, not our Ellis County Italy; I mean the country kickin’ its boot heel into the Mediterranean...the land of the Etruscans and Romans, of Da Vinci and Michelangelo. The country that produces more wine than any other, well over 3 billion bottles, and sends about a hundred million bottles to the USA every year. So in order to demystify those mocking, foreboding wine aisles at your favorite vino purveyor, knowing about Italian wine is essential. Let’s break it down the best we can and start with a few statistics. There are 20 wine-producing regions and hundreds of grape varieties. At 5 billion liters of wine annually, that adds up to lots of growers and wine producers. Italian wines are varied, delicious and fun to try. There are some quality designations that you should know about that appear on the bottle: about three dozen appellations have earned the top mark of DOCG, Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (controlled designation of origin guaranteed), which has the strictest production rules. Another 300 have earned the DOC status, or Denominazione di Origine Controllata (controlled designation of origin), meaning the style of the wines and production methods meet the standard. Below this mark is IGT, Indicazione Geografica Tipica, indicating regional authenticity but fewer controls on production. You may encounter wines with none of these, or “vino de tavola” (table wine), which would be hit or miss to try. We have space to hit the high points on Italian reds, aka “vino rosso.” The phrase “Italian red wine” probably brings Chianti to mind. Made from mostly sangiovese grapes in the Tuscany region,

24

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // MAY-JUNE 2014

it is a great fruity, dry, all-purpose wine, even better if ‘classico’ (more body) and, better still, ‘riserva’ (over 2 years aging). You can’t go wrong pairing this with any Italian dish. But there is so much more out there...let’s get out of the Chianti rut and look at some northern Italian varietals. Barolo and its lighter cousin barbaresco, made from nebbiolo grapes, are full-bodied flavorful wines to pair with hearty fare and make very reliable choices. Barolo must be aged three years or more, five to be ‘riserva’. Barbera, from grapes of the same name, tends to be much lighter, with great fruit and flavor for less intense food pairing or by the glass, and can be a great value. From the same general area, wine from dolcetto grapes fits the bill for easy drinking, informal meals, fruity and dry. Note that the type of grape will be on the label. Eastward we find the excellent wine region Veneto. Valpolicella (medium bodied) and the lighter bardolino are mainstays here, but oh, the amarone… this wine is arguably Italy’s best. It is usually expensive (although there is a version around $20 at Trader Joe’s that I would say is okay but not what you expect from a typical amarone, which is oenophilic bliss). Savor amarone with excellent, fullflavored meals. Slowly. Lovingly. Moving south, we hit Tuscany, noted for Chianti, where sangiovese grapes rule. A relative newcomer from this region are wines called “Super Tuscans,” but the title does not mean that they are all great wines. The name originated when some “maverick” winemakers broke sacred tradition by using cabernet, merlot and other grape blends instead of just sangiovese.

They are good, reliable choices, and you can often apply “super” to the price! This region also produces brunello, a type of sangiovese grapes from which fullbodied, wonderful wines result - Brunello di Montalcino in particular. Very strict requirements, such as five-year aging and no blending, produce this classic, excellent wine. Tuscany also includes the town of Montepulciano and grapes of the same name. I have found, without exception, that if Montepulciano appears on the label you will be okay with it. A medium-bodied choice, it’s a good pairing for nearly anything except the heaviest of meats, and strict production rules and aging insure quality. Montepulciano d’Abruzzo is a lighter version from Abruzzo on the eastern coast. Look for bargain prices on anything that says Montepulciano and buy it for everyday meals, saving the pricier ones for that special occasion. There you go. That should be enough to convince you to dip your toe into the ocean of Italian wine. Wines at all price levels are out there; keep an eye out for good prices on the pricier ones. Look for quality designations but don’t get too hung up on them, and please don’t limit yourself to drinking Italian wine only with Italian food. Maybe try a bottle just because you like the name of the grape, like trebbiano or Bombino bianco (white wine grapes) or primitivo, corvina and rondinella (reds) and mention the grape types to your guests. Be sure and use emphatic hand gestures as you announce them (as is done with all Italian speech only more dramatically here because it involves food). It’s really hard to go wrong with wine from Italia; I’ve just skimmed the surface here. Italian wines...molto bene!

BERTANI AMARONE DELLA VALPOLICELLA CLASSICO


living-magazine.com // MAY-JUNE 2014

25


LIFE & STYLE

Slim Down for Summer A Guide to Aqua Fitness BY ANGELA MCBRIDE-EASTHAM With summer quickly approaching, many of us are dreaming about time spent poolside. The longer days of summer can also energize us and help keep our fitness goals on track. What better way to accomplish both than by adding aqua fitness to your fitness regimen? Water provides up to 12 times the resistance as the air, so exercising in the pool is a great way to strengthen and tone your entire body. Also, the water’s buoyancy will offer a new challenge for the body as you engage different muscle groups. During an hour-long class, participants can burn 350 to 700 calories. Gaining in popularity as a fun way to get in shape, aqua fitness can include strengthening exercises, dance, cardiovascular exercises, drills and games. “This form of exercise is less stressful to your joints, especially your knees. It is a great cardiovascular exercise. You can set your own intensity, so people of all ages and fitness levels can participate and get a lot out of each session,” Dionne Sauers, AFAA certified instructor that teaches shallow water aerobics, said. “Water aerobics is something different. This reduces the boredom that a lot of people face with their exercise program. Many of the participants come with their friends or family members, so it is a fun time to socialize while getting a workout. I also use upbeat and current music to enhance the class enjoyment and participation.”

What to expect in each class: Aqua aerobics uses a similar format as aerobics performed on land. Sauers says: “You begin with a gradual warm-up, a working phase that can include exercises to improve muscle strength and cardiovascular endurance, followed by a cool down and stretching exercises to improve overall flexibility. The great thing with shallow water aerobics is the way the water affects the participants’ core muscles, posture and muscle balance. In class, we add water squats, quick feet drills, and traveling series from one side of the pool to another to achieve a fullbody workout.”

Healthy tips: Stay hydrated: Although exercising in water can be very refreshing, you can actually sweat during class so it is very important to drink water before, after and during class. Protect your skin: When performed outdoors, make sure to wear sunscreen to offset the damaging effects of the sun. Buddy up for success: Ask a co-worker, friend or family member to join you. Research shows that you will actually work out harder and get better results when you exercise with a partner.

*** Before beginning any new exercise program, it is important to talk with your doctor.

26

living-magazine.com // MAY-JUNE 2014

Listen to your body to determine the intensity: Aqua fitness provides a great way to get in shape while setting your own pace. Many instructors encourage their students to use the “talk test” to monitor their intensity. “The participants should be able to talk comfortably while in class. If an exercise sequence becomes too intense, you can simply slow down the movement or alternate using your arms and legs during the series,” Sauers explains. To increase intensity, participants can choose to use equipment such as webbed gloves and dumbbells designed for aqua fitness to enhance their workout. Supplement weight-bearing activity to improve bone density: Although aqua fitness is a fantastic way to improve strength, tone and flexibility, it does not increase bone density as performing weight-bearing exercises on land does (calisthenics, weight lifting, step aerobics, etc.). So, it important to supplement these exercises to your workout program to help increase bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

Angela graduated from the University of Missouri-Columbia with a bachelor’s degree in nutrition and fitness and a master’s in health education and promotion. A stay-at-home mom in Ennis, she is certified in numerous exercise programs and includes her children in her fitness regimen.


living-magazine.com // MAY-JUNE 2014

27


Jeff Kosoris, DDS, FAGD

in choosing a career path, a desire to be in a field where you can think outside the box does not necessarily bring dentistry to mind. But for Jeff Kosoris, D.D.S., finding a creative approach to dental issues is a big part of what has kept him excited about his job for over 30 years. “every day is a challenge because you never know what the day will bring,” Dr. Kosoris said. “many people have unique situations, sometimes trauma, sometimes a challenging condition to restore, and the process of figuring it out and creating a solution makes it fun to come to work.” growing up, Dr. Kosoris was interested in biology and health sciences and knew he wanted to end up in the medical or dental field, gaining inspiration from his childhood dentist. along with that interest, a fascination with technology, gadgets and things requiring dexterity led him into the field, and a love for getting to know his patients keeps him coming back.

“i do think we have a fairly unique office in the sense of customer service,” Dr. Kosoris said. “our initial examination is very thorough and i always meet and see new patients first and spend plenty of time with them. We try to create a long-lasting relationship with patients and to make their experience as pleasant as it can possibly be. We stand by what we do.” Dr. Kosoris listens to patients’ concerns then gives every treatment option to try and find the best fit for how they want the results to look and feel while staying within their budget. He and the staff never tire of hearing that patients have, “found their dental home,” when they visit, and they take pride in knowing that patients feel well cared for and like their concerns have been heard. “i try to simply have a conversation, to listen, and suggest procedures to meet their needs,” Dr. Kosoris said. “it’s not always easy for people to communicate what they are looking for; dentistry can be complicated with different ways to approach a problem.” Rather than list a bunch of services to consider, his best advice is to give his office a call if you have a dental concern, facial pain, desire another opinion or have any other dental questions.

SuPer dentiSt for the past 6 years, dr. kosoris has been voted a “super dentist” in texas Monthly magazine, a list compiled by peers via mailed ballots. he is a fellow in the academy of general dentistry, serves on the teaching faculty for the Center for aesthetic restorative dentistry in dallas and is the director of dental services for hope Clinic in waxahachie. various dental manufacturers value his opinion as they develop new products, often sending samples to him for his opinion on whether the product should continue to be developed.

Through continuing education, Dr. Kosoris regularly updates his methods for the latest procedures, averaging about 75 hours per year, six times the state requirement. new procedures to create nonremovable dentures attached to implants offer an exciting alternative for people who have trouble wearing conventional dentures. Dental

going to the dentist is something we look forward to. we truly value the consideration and professionalism of dr. kosoris and respect him immensely. he has surrounded himself with an excellent support staff and that just adds to the enjoyment. who thought going to the dentist would be fun? in our opinion, dr. Jeff kosoris is simply a great guy! -Jennifer & nolan pike


Special aDveRTiSing FeaTURe

appliances to enable people with sleep apnea to avoid using a cpap device are popular, and there are continuous improvements in diagnostic methods and materials for better results for nearly every procedure. along with dentures and other general dental services, the office has state-of-the-art x-ray equipment able to take digital images from outside the mouth while reducing x-ray exposure to the lowest possible amount. They also offer a full range of cosmetic dental services, including whitening, bonding, porcelain veneers and laser gum contouring. The laser is useful in many situations, and you can feel the excitement radiating from Dr. Kosoris, a self-proclaimed “gadget freak,” as he discusses its use in shaping tissue to obtain the patient’s desired look. “We had one patient who didn’t like her smile, saying her teeth were ‘little bitty,’” Dr. Kosoris said, noting that overgrown gum tissue was actually to blame in this woman’s case. “She came in one day and i don’t even know if it took an hour, but with the laser we removed the tissue. i handed her a mirror and she said, ‘oh! i have big girl teeth now!’ it was a classic comment.” Reactions like this one, and the many he receives from patients who say they’ve finally found a dentist who will really work with them to find a solution, are what Dr. Kosoris and his staff pride themselves on. Whatever it is you are looking for, you can be sure he’ll be ready and waiting to see what challenge the day will bring.

Dr. Kosoris graduated from Baylor college of Dentistry in Dallas, then went through the post-grad curriculum at pankey institute for advanced Dental education in Florida. He has been caring for residents of ellis county and surrounding areas for 31 years.

Jeff koSoriS, d.d.S. 131 mark traiL, waXahachie Behind office dePot

972.938.1845

www.JeffkoSoriSddS.com

dr. kosoris serves as the director of the dental clinic at hope Clinic in waxahachie and has been board president for five of the past six years. he began as a volunteer dental provider in the year 2000, and helped design and equip the new dental clinic when it was built three years ago. “it’s a really gratifying way to be involved in the community,” dr. kosoris said.

i can highly recommend dr. kosoris! he works with all your dental needs, giving positive words and professional advice. he calmly reassures as he is tending to your dental issues. i had been going to him for several years when i decided to talk with him about straightening my teeth. each visit during this process, he always explained exactly what he was going to do and what to expect in the end. i now smile confidently and appreciate the work he did every time i look in the mirror!! his work is consistent and well done. you should give this office a visit. his staff is exceptional as well. -vicki shanor

Patients’ comfort is our top priority.


LIFE & STYLE { nonpRoFiT }

Get up and Give Back LoCAL WAYS To GET YoUr CoMMUNITY AND YoUrSELF IN ShAPE

Relay for Life

if you’re looking for a way to get the whole family and even community together for a good cause, Relay for life offers just that. Teams raise money to help the american cancer Society beat cancer, then take turns walking a course at a 24-hour event, usually overnight to symbolize the way cancer never sleeps. Food, games and activities build togetherness and keep inactive participants entertained, and while the specifics of each event vary, they all include a Survivors lap, a Fight Back ceremony and a luminaria ceremony. visit relayforlife.org and search for your local event for more information.

reLaY for Life of MidLothian may 3, 12 p.m. to 12 a.m. Frank Seale middle School reLaY for Life of ennis CoMMUnitY may 17, 12 p.m. to 12 a.m. ennis iSD lion memorial Stadium sUperhero fight for Life 5k may 24, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. getzendaner park, Waxahachie reLaY for Life of CentraL eLLis CoUntY may 30-31, 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. Downtown Waxahachie

30

living-magazine.com // maY-JUne 2014

Filthy 5k Mud Run

looking for a good excuse to roll around in the mud? Well you’ve found it. Featuring 15-20 militarystyle obstacles, including ladders, bridges, walls, creeks, hills and boulders, the event raises money to provide scholarships and grants for maypearl iSD students and teachers through the maypearl chamber of commerce and education Foundation. may 10, 9 a.m. lakeview camp, Waxahachie entry: $55 includes 5k, event shirt, meal and medal; $20 for kids 1-mile run For more visit filthyfivek.com, email info@filthyfivek.com or call 972.998.3106.

Heroes of Midlothian 5k

The Heroes of midlothian Foundation’s mission is to honor local fallen heroes – soldiers, firefighters, law enforcement and other public servants - by providing short- and long-term assistance to midlothian-area families experiencing hardship because of the unexpected loss or injury of a family member. after the 5k, join the community at a festival and free concert. may 17, 8 a.m. miSD multipurpose Stadium entry: $25 by may 16, $35 on race day

For more visit heroesofmidlothian.org.

PolkaFest Run 10k, 5k and 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk The polkafest Run is a healthy way to kick off polka Fest while helping the ennis Rotary club raise money for various local projects, primarily the children’s Reading Room program at the ennis public library. plus, after you finish you can stuff your face at the kolache eating contest! may 24, 7 a.m. lonestar Fitness center, ennis entry: $25 for adults 14 and over before may 17, $30 after; $15 for kids 7-13 For more visit polkafestrun. com or call 972.878.2625.

28th Annual Cow Creek Country Classic Bike Ride

presented by the Rotary club of Waxahachie get ready to ride at the cow creek country classic bike ride, a fun event for both beginners and more experienced cyclists. From a 10-mile ride through historic Waxahachie to a 102-mile tour through beautiful countryside, riders have

six different route choices at varying distances to choose from. proceeds are used by the Rotary club to support various charities in the area. June 28, 7:30 a.m. courses begin at Waxahachie High School entry: $30 before June 13, $35 after; family and corporate discounts available For more visit cowcreekcountryclassic.org.

3rd Annual Red Oak White & Blue 10k, 5k and 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk Help the Red oak parks & Recreation Department raise funds for future programs and park improvements at the Red oak White and Blue fun run, 10k and 5k. When you finish, enjoy the festivities of the day and hang around for “one of the area’s biggest and best” fireworks displays. June 28, 7 a.m. pearson park, Red oak entry: $15 for 5k/10k by June 25, $25 on race day; $7 for one-mile fun run for kids 12 and under, $10 for 13 and up For more visit redoakparks.org.


living-magazine.com // MAY-JUNE 2014

31


Editor’s Picks { {

LIFE & STYLE

BOOKS

Living Magazine’s new editor shares her top 5 favorite books of all time.

5

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire by J.K. Rowling

In the fourth installment of the series, Harry finds himself thrown into chaos and danger (through no fault of his own) when his name is mysteriously entered into the dangerous Triwizard Tournament. Fighting for his life and against the evil that pursues him at every moment, Harry is forced to come of age as the world around him prepares against the growing force of Lord Voldemort. Harry was my childhood friend, so not having all Harry Potter books be my top five was really hard. Out of all seven, this one is my favorite because we see Harry grow up and face unspeakable pain with remarkable courage.

32

living-magazine.com // MAY-JUNE 2014

5

Shopgirl by Steve Martin

Mirabelle Buttersfield is a young artist from Vermont who moves to Los Angeles in hopes of starting her life over. Lonely and unhappy, she struggles to navigate through a dull job, unremarkable suitors and the depression that often plagues her. When millionaire older man Ray Porter comes into the picture and sweeps her off her feet, her world is turned upside down. She is infatuated with a man who will never commit, and as she struggles to understand that, she ultimately comes to know and respect herself. I love this because the prose is achingly beautiful who knew funny man Steve Martin was such an excellent writer?

5

Bridget Jones’s Diary

by Helen Fielding

This is probably the funniest book I’ve ever read! I pick it up when I’m having a bad day and it never fails to make me smile. Bridget Jones is a 30-year-old single woman with no set plan in life. Through her diary we watch as she makes an endless amount of resolutions that she can’t keep, attempts to diet and quit smoking, and tries to make sense of her dating life. I love it because she’s so real - reading her diary is like reading a note from your best friend.

5

To Kill A

Mockingbird by Harper Lee

Set in Depressionera Alabama, To Kill A Mockingbird is narrated by Scout Finch, a young girl living with her brother, Jem, and lawyer father Atticus Finch. When Atticus is appointed to a controversial and racially biased case, Jem and Scout get caught up in the trial and discover just how severe the societal injustices that surround them really are. Beautifully written and narrated, To Kill A Mockingbird does the wonderful act of letting us grow with Scout as she learns about morality, justice and friendship.

BY Izamar Loredo

5

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

My favorite romance novel, Pride and Prejudice tells the story of Elizabeth Bennett and her life in 19thcentury England. Elizabeth is a middle-class woman who is intelligent, feisty and observant. When Fitzwilliam Darcy comes to town, she is as unimpressed by his arrogant behavior as he is impressed by her bold personality. The two must battle society’s expectations of money, class, education and marriage in addition to each other’s hardheadedness, but eventually they come into an agreement that they do in fact love each other. I know it’s not the typical romance novel, but I love how sassy Elizabeth Bennett is. Her revolutionary attitude and refusal to settle make her a heroine for the ages. Oh, and who can resist the mysterious Mr. Darcy?


living-magazine.com // MAY-JUNE 2014

33


LIFE & STYLE { TRAVEL }

TAKinG THe PhoTo: SoUTh DAKoTA DEPT. oF ToUrISM

SCeniC rouTe Beat the heat, and the crowds, on a fall road trip to the Black Hills and the Badlands of South Dakota You’ve seen their faces a thousand times, those etched in stone on Mount rushmore of presidents washington, Jefferson, roosevelt and Lincoln. while Mount rushmore is one of the most iconic images of america, it was originally carved to get motorists out to south dakota. “people come to see Mount rushmore, but what they discover is how beautiful everything else is,” Mary kopco, executive director of deadwood history, inc., said. Located squarely in the middle of what east and west Coasters consider “flyover country,” south dakota often flies under the radar as a travel destination. but there was a time when this landscape was the center of the american west. Lewis and Clark passed through, Crazy horse battled with general Custer, and a gold rush in 1876 created a miner’s camp known as deadwood that attracted frontier woman Calamity Jane and gunslinger wild bill hickok. western south dakota is marked by two beautiful but very distinct landscapes: the striated, fossil-rich, sharply eroded buttes of the badlands, and the nearby mountains so thick in evergreens that the native Lakota called them “paha sapa” – hills that are black. time passes quickly following a best-of-the-west road trip that includes world-famous attractions, scenery like nowhere else, wildlife, and if you want, gambling.

34

living-magazine.com // maY-JUne 2014

CuSTer STATe PArK custer State park is named for general george custer, who in 1876 was famously defeated by crazy Horse’s warriors at the Battle of the little Bighorn in montana. prior to little Bighorn, he led an expedition of the Black Hills and discovered gold. Stunningly beautiful and diverse, the park has something for everyone. For the outdoorsmen, there are mountain lakes, granite spires, dense Black Hills forest, and grassland with wildlife herds to explore via kayaking, rock climbing, mountain biking and hiking. if you prefer a window seat, custer State park offers some of the most breathtaking scenic drives in the Black Hills. The park’s winding roads are engineering marvels. The peter norbeck national

PhoTo: SoUTh DAKoTA DEPT. oF ToUrISM

Scenic Byway includes needles Highway and iron mountain Road. it starts in the park and takes drivers alongside slender granite needles, through rock tunnels and across pigtail bridges on the way to mount Rushmore. The park, established in 1919, played an instrumental role in bringing back the bison from the brink of extinction. The buffalo are descended from animals captured on one of the last big bison hunts in South Dakota in the early 20th century. The bison herd is generally kept at about 1,300, and the calves, mostly born in may, are still pint-sized by late summer compared to their parents. a roundup is held each year in September to count, brand and vaccinate the herd. Watching the cowboys drive them over the prairie is like a scene straight out of Dances with Wolves, which was filmed nearby.


mounT ruSHmore nATionAl PArK Sculptor gutzon Borglum immortalized presidents Washington, Jefferson, lincoln and Theodore Roosevelt on a 5,725-foot-tall stone mountain. To view it in person is astounding. You glimpse the faces along the road as you drive in, then from the visitor center, and then along the trail until ultimately you’re right there, staring into Roosevelt’s glasses. or does he really have any? You’ll have to see it in person to decide…The evening lighting ceremony is something every american should experience. The park rangers lead an inspirational and patriotic program focusing on the presidents and the nation’s history.

one of the West’s wildest gold Rush towns, Deadwood, in a deep gulch high in the hills, has the rare honor of being a national Historic landmark in its entirety. Within a year of the discovery of gold in 1876, 6,000 gold diggers had arrived to stake their claims. con artists, outlaws and other dubious frontier types were not far behind. among them were James Butler and martha canary

CrAZy HorSe memoriAl ironically, the crazy Horse memorial is being blasted and jackhammered out of a mountain adjacent to custer State park. it was started in 1948 at the request of chief Henry Standing Bear to carve a mountain to honor the heritage, tradition and culture of north american indians. The sculptor, Korczak ziolkowski, decided on the legendary ogala Sioux leader chief crazy Horse. Upon completion, the crazy Horse memorial will be the largest sculpture in the world. Be forewarned: for safety reasons, the public is kept at least two miles from the statue, and the free view from the highway is almost as good as the one from the visitor center and gift shop.

Burke, better known as “Wild Bill Hickok” and “calamity Jane.” Wild Bill was shot here in Saloon no. 10 and is buried beside Jane in the local cemetery. visitors can learn about their lives while enjoying the town’s attractions. Fortune seekers still seek gold in Deadwood, but these days instead of going into a mine they just step off the sidewalk and into one of the town’s many saloons and casinos to try their luck.

PhoTo: SoUTh DAKoTA DEPT. oF ToUrISM

© CrAZY horSE MEMorIAL FoUNDATIoN

DeADwooD

living-magazine.com // maY-JUne 2014

35


LIFE & STYLE

DEVILS TOWER Just a couple of hours west from Deadwood, across the state line into Wyoming is the massive stone monolith that first inspired the Indians, then Teddy Roosevelt and much later, Steven Spielberg. Devils Tower rises 1,267 feet above the surrounding grassland and Ponderosa pine forests like a rocky sentinel. Northern Plains Indians have worshipped near this remarkable geologic formation for thousands of years. In 1906, President Theodore Roosevelt established Devils Tower as the nation’s first national monument, and in 1976, Steven Spielberg featured it in the movie, “Close Encounters of The Third Kind.” Today, getting up close is still the best way to encounter the tower. It is a magnet for climbers who come to ascend over 150 routes. For those visitors who prefer to keep their feet firmly on the ground, there are eight miles of nature trails near the monument. The most popular is an easy 1.3-mile trail around the base, where you can view the tower from all angles and, incidentally, enjoy the native pine forest.

36

living-magazine.com // MAY-JUNE 2014

BADLANDS NATIONAL PARK Though only 100 miles from Custer State Park, nothing could seem farther away from the Black Hills than the Badlands National Park. Covering 244,000 acres, the area was named the “bad land” by tribes and early explorers because the terrain was so difficult to travel through. Layers of rugged rock stretch back to the horizon in colorful bands of gray, brown, pink and red stone. In other parts of the park, the flat prairie is filled with tall grasses and pastel wildflowers. One could spend days exploring this enormous and beautiful landscape — 381 square miles — but the park’s 30-mile loop road can be driven in about an hour. The scenic byway follows the natural formations of the Badlands, weaving

in and out of the native grasslands and lunar-like surfaces of the park. Several lookout stops provide great views of the ever-changing scenery. The park is home to many species of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, bison, antelope and deer. Prairie dogs are commonly seen popping out of holes along the roadways. Wind, rain and erosion have unearthed one of the world’s richest deposits of fossils at the park. Paleontologists have uncovered the remains of ancient three-toed horses, tiny deer-like creatures, turtles, a saber-toothed cat and other prehistoric animals. Visitors to South Dakota can explore its natural wonders on foot or by car as they travel through some of the best the West has to offer. Take as much or as little time as you like; it’s gorgeous either way.


living-magazine.com // MAY-JUNE 2014

37


LIFE & STYLE { RECIPES }

Recipes to

Live By Cancer Treatment & Recovery

Jicama and Red Cabbage Salad with Mint and Cilantro Tossed with Sweet-and-Sour Asian Dressing By Rebecca Katz

If you’re a coleslaw fan or jones for a crunchy salad, this recipe is for you. Red cabbage is a nutrient-rich cruciferous vegetable. Jicama is loaded with nutrients, including iron. Together they make a colorful pair. You can substitute cucumber if you can’t find jicama in the market. 6 servings Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients Nuts: 1/2 cup sliced almonds 1 tablespoon maple syrup pinch of cayenne Dressing: 1/2 teaspoon seeded and diced jalapeno 3 tablespoons brown rice vinegar 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice 1/4 cup tamari 3 tablespoons maple syrup 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil 1 tablespoon ginger, minced 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger pinch of salt

38

Salad: 1 pound red cabbage, chopped 1/2 pound jicama, peeled and thinly sliced, or 2 cucumbers, peeled, seeded, and thinly sliced 2 tablespoons mint, chopped 1/4 cup cilantro or basil, finely chopped

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350-degrees. Toss the nuts in a bowl with the maple syrup and cayenne. Spread on a sheet pan and bake 10 to 12 minutes, until golden and fragrant. Remove from the oven and cool to room temperature. Use a metal spatula to loosen the crispy nuts. To make the dressing, whisk together the jalapeno, vinegar, lime juice, tamari, maple syrup, sesame oil, ginger and salt. Set aside. To make the salad, cut the cabbage in half, remove the core, and shred with a sharp knife. In a large bowl, combine the cabbage, jicama, mint and cilantro. Toss with the dressing. Sprinkle the nuts on top and serve.

Tips Jicama is a large round tuber with a hard, brown skin. The exterior masks a sweet vegetable with watery and crunchy flesh that is best eaten raw.

living-magazine.com // MAY-JUNE 2014

BY KATHRYN KEMP PHOTOS BY LORI EANES PHOTOGRAPHY, lorieanes.com

When it comes to what you’ll put into your body, or the bodies of those you love, sometimes the task of planning can be overwhelming. But what if someone would create healthy meal plans complete with easy-to-follow recipes for you in mere seconds? Enter Ennis Regional Medical Center’s My Health eRecipes program. With customization options including family members’ food allergies and health interests (chronic illnesses and other health issues), plus accommodations for picky eaters, the online program makes healthy eating so simple you really have no excuse not to do it – especially considering it’s free! Visit ennisregional.com and click on “free Menu Planner” under My Health eRecipes to build your own plan and see what it’s all about. Here are a few sample recipes tailored to specific health needs.

ASTHMA/ECZEMA

Butternut Squash/ Sweet Potato Soup By Carole Ortenzo

This soup makes a wonderful appetizer or side dish for a chicken entree. It’s also great for lunch along with a hearty salad. Turn the soup into a main course by adding cooked beans, grains and greens. Six 2-cup servings Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 25 minutes Storage: Refrigerate up to 4 days. Freeze up to 1 month.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 2 cups onion, chopped 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg or 20 grates of fresh nutmeg 1/8 teaspoon ground allspice 1/4 teaspoon chili powder pinch of ground cumin 1 1/2 pounds butternut squash, peeled, seeded, chopped 1 pound sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped 1/4 pound carrots, cut into 1/2-inch rounds 5 cups vegetable stock 1 1/4 teaspoons salt 1/2 cup pine nuts, for garnish

Instructions

Warm the oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Add the onions, cover and cook over medium-low heat for about 5 minutes, until the onions are translucent. Add the nutmeg, allspice, chili powder, cumin and cinnamon and sauté for 1 more minute. Add the squash, sweet potatoes, carrots and stock, and bring to a boil. Stir in 1 1/4 teaspoon salt, lower the heat and simmer, partially covered until the vegetables are easily pierced with a fork, about 15-20 minutes. Toast the pine nuts in a dry heavy-bottomed skillet, stirring constantly, until golden, about 2

minutes. Remove from the heat and set aside. Puree the soup right in the pot with an immersion (stick) blender, or puree it in batches in a stand blender. Taste and add more salt if necessary. Serve hot.

Tips The soup thickens as it cools, so add water or stock and a pinch of salt when reheating. Add cleaned, raw, tender greens, such as spinach or Swiss chard, after pureeing the soup. They only take a minute or two to cook. Or add sturdy greens, such as kale or collards that have already been cooked.


CELIAC DISEASE

Gluten-Free Sesame/ Anise Cookies By Sue Baldassano

These are lovely, not overly sweet cookies that make a wonderful, quick breakfast. Store-bought gluten free flour may be substituted for the mix below. Yields 10 – 12 cookies Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 18-20 minutes Storage: Store covered at room temperature for up to 1 week. Freeze up to 1 month.

Ingredients

6 tablespoons sesame seeds, divided 1/2 teaspoon anise seeds 10 tablespoons glutenfree flour mix (below) 1/4 cup maple or other natural brown sugar

1/4 teaspoon baking powder 1 egg white 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract pinch of salt

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper. Whisk 2 tablespoons of the sesame seeds, the anise seeds, flour mix, sugar and baking powder in a medium bowl. Reserve the remaining 4 tablespoons of sesame seeds on a small plate and set aside. Whisk together the egg white, oil, vanilla and salt in a separate bowl. Pour the wet mixture into the dry and stir together until the dry ingredients are moistened. The dough should be moist but not too sticky. If it appears too sticky, place the dough in the refrigerator for 5 to 10 minutes until it is firm enough to handle. To form cookies: use a tablespoon to scoop the dough. Roll each piece into a log shape, about 1 1/2-inch long and 3/4-inch wide. Roll logs on the reserved sesame seeds. Lay the cookies on the prepared sheet and bake until golden and slightly firm to the touch, about 15-20 minutes. Cool and serve.

Tips This gluten-free flour mix yields 1 cup: 6 tablespoons almond meal 2 tablespoons brown rice flour 1 tablespoon garbanzo flour 1 tablespoon tapioca flour 1 tablespoon arrowroot flour 1 tablespoon potato starch flour

DIABETES

Turkey Burger with Spicy Avocado Mustard

By Myra Kornfeld Credits: The Healthy Hedonist Holidays, Simon and Schuster Publishers

These well-seasoned patties are laced with sundried tomatoes and pine nuts. Sautéed onions and bell peppers keep them moist, even when grilled. The avocado mustard makes a dynamite topping. You can also sauté these burgers in a skillet. Yields 6 burgers Prep Time: 15 minutes plus one hour to chill Cook Time: 30 minutes Storage: Refrigerate for up to one day before cooking and one day after. Freeze uncooked for up to one month. The mustard keeps refrigerated for up to three days.

Ingredients

Turkey Burger: 1/4 cup pine nuts 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1 cup onions, diced small 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 green pepper, small dice 1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon chili powder 1 jalapeño, stemmed, seeded and minced 1 pound ground turkey 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, reconstituted and chopped into 1/4inch dice 1/2 teaspoon salt freshly ground black pepper 1 egg white Avocado Mustard: 1 ripe avocado 4 teaspoons fresh lime juice 4 teaspoons Dijon mustard 1 jalapeño, stemmed, seeded and minced

Instructions

Toast the pine nuts in a dry heavy-bottomed medium skillet, stirring constantly, until golden, about 3 minutes. Transfer to a small bowl and set aside. Warm the oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the onions,

garlic and pepper, and sauté until softened, about 7 to 10 minutes. Add the cumin, chili powder, and jalapeño and sauté another 3 minutes. Transfer to a medium bowl and stir in the turkey, tomatoes, pine nuts, salt and a sprinkling of black pepper. Stir in the egg white and form into 6 burgers. Refrigerate for an hour or longer. Make the avocado mustard. Mash the avocado into a small bowl. Stir in the lime juice, mustard and jalapeno and set aside. Preheat an outdoor grill or grill pan on medium heat. Add the burgers and cook 4 minutes on each side, crosshatching after 2 minutes to get pronounced grill marks. Cover and cook another 4 minutes or so on low heat (if using a grill pan, put a domed lid over the burgers) until burgers are cooked through. They will feel firm when pressed. Serve hot, topped with the avocado mustard.

living-magazine.com // MAY-JUNE 2014

39


BRENT HUGHES PHOTOGRAPHY

LIFE & STYLE

MATIN MEDIA PHOTOGRAPHY

LAUREN COHOON PHOTOGRAPHY

{ PLANNING }

AMI TRULL PHOTOGRAPHY

Wedding

TREND UPDATE

LAUREN COHOON PHOTOGRAPHY

BY TERESA CHOATE

The latest trend alert involves two opposite spectrums of the color wheel. The first continues to be the soft, muted colors of blush, pale pink, beige, white and cream. The opposite choice is bright colors, from peach, hot pink, coral and red to peacock blues and greens. Soft color tones are being used with the bridesmaids’ gowns, as well as with the groom and groomsmen’s attire. The blush tones for bridesmaids can be seen in the same shade of blush or a slightly different shade. Grooms and groomsmen are selecting suits in khaki or grey tones instead of traditional tuxedoes. These tones really make for spectacular photography, especially when paired with beautiful backgrounds of natural outdoor settings.

40

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // MAY-JUNE 2014

Flowers are also appearing in the monochromatic tones of blush, pale pinks, whites and creams. Pale pink roses, white hydrangeas and stock can pull the soft muted look together for the bride’s and bridesmaids’ bouquets, and baby’s breath is even making a resurgence. Gone are the days when some brides would be mortified at the use of baby’s breath and carnations; with an updated flair and used in groupings, these simple flowers can really make a statement. Don’t underestimate the cost of baby’s breath or carnations, as they are not just inexpensive filler flowers. Still, the best bang for your dollar is the beautiful hydrangea used in combination with other flowers for the personal flowers, altar and reception decor.

Flores, owner and designer of FRESH, calls the updated cascading bouquet an “inverted teardrop bouquet.” This style does not overpower the bride or her gown, is a little smaller than the ‘80s versions, and is very lovely for the bride looking for something a little more traditional, but can still be ahead of the trend with the bright color options some brides prefer.

Another trend alert is the updated version of the cascading bouquet. Courtney Keen-

As always, if you have any questions feel free to email me at teresachoate@aol.com.

It is always exciting to see the new color combinations in flowers and wedding party attire, with so many choices of colors, décor and gown and attire styles for brides and grooms. Be happy with your selections and happy planning!


living-magazine.com // MAY-JUNE 2014

41


LIFE & STYLE

A Magical JOURNEY Becoming a mother was something that seemed so magical to me when I was a little girl. I couldn’t wait for the day when I would have my very own family and now I’m a proud, happy momma of four. While I quickly learned that the day-to-day business of being a mother is anything but magical (think dishes, diapers, laundry, more diapers, sibling fights, even more diapers…), I can truly say that motherhood in general is most definitely a beautiful, magical thing. To create life and then cultivate and mold a person is an amazing gift. This May I will celebrate my seventh Mother’s Day, so in honor of Mother’s Day (and Father’s Day!), I have seven reasons why I believe it is magical to be a parent. My littles are still small, so I know there are many, many more magical aspects of parenthood to come!

u YOU SEE THE BEST PART OF

YOURSELF IN YOUR CHILDREN. As adults, we have lost a lot of the natural and pure confidence that children have. Women especially tend to be their own worst critics. Whether it is a physical ability, a personality trait or even just a resemblance, seeing the good traits in your child that you know they inherited, learned or picked up from you is a nice reminder and a good reason to love that part of yourself again.

42

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // MAY-JUNE 2014

A MOTHER’S TALE BY LINDSAY MARKERT

v RELIVING YOUR CHILDHOOD.

Kids have it made! No major responsibilities, no bills to pay, no worrying over the stresses of daily life. They simply LIVE. And typically they live loud, messy and happy. When you live on their level, truly get down on the floor and focus only on Legos or puzzles or dolls with them, it reminds you of the simplicity of the days where your biggest concern was which toy to play with first! Those moments are precious, and time slows down. Another way that parenthood comes full circle is at holidays and special events. Everything that has become routine and not exciting anymore suddenly becomes magical and special when you see it through the eyes of your child. There is nothing like watching your child see something extraordinary for the first time!

w TEACHING YOUR KIDS.

From showing them how to wash their chubby little hands and brush their tiny teeth to explaining how not to be a sore loser or how to treat the new kid at school that no one seems to include, every day is absolutely full of teachable moments. It is exhausting, YES, and a huge responsibility, but being your child’s guide through life’s big and small moments is priceless and rewarding.


x THE LOVE.

Oh my word the love. You just never know it, understand it, GET it until a baby is placed in your arms for keeps. Those tiny precious beings rely on you for everything from the word go, and even though seconds before meeting them you weren’t sure if you were up for the challenge, you know when you lock eyes with your baby that you will move heaven and earth to ensure their safety and happiness. As they grow, their love is displayed in different ways and with varying levels of enthusiasm, but you never, ever tire of hearing, “I love you Momma.”

y CHILDREN ARE HUMBLING. AND HILARIOUS.

Plain and simple, kids tell it exactly as they see it. For them, there is no political correctness or tact. My most humbling moment thus far as a parent is courtesy of my oldest, who climbed in bed with me one morning and started talking (and talking and talking…). When I responded, he said, “Eww Mommy what breath do you have?!” The funniest moments are when they are slightly offensive and somehow jumble the wording a bit…I couldn’t help but laugh! Children are really, really good at reminding us that we mess up or that we are less than perfect…and hopefully we can teach them that perfection is overrated and flaws are ok. I am aiming to teach a bit of tact too!

z RELATIONSHIPS.

The relationship of parent and child is a beautiful thing and something to be fiercely protected, as is the relationship between siblings. I love watching my children build their relationships together. I pray that they are always there for each other…it’s also very entertaining and I am mentally filing away stories for later! But there are those relationships outside the home, too, and those are so special and such a blessing. Amazing grandparents, favorite aunts and uncles, special teachers, lifelong friends…it is such a wonderful thing to see others love your children.

{ WATCHING THEM EXCEL.

From the moment they are born, there are millions of firsts. I remember the elation I felt at my oldest’s first smile—I didn’t think I could be any happier. From the little things like first smiles and first steps to starting school and learning to read and beyond, there is nothing like watching someone you love so much do well at something, and seeing their pride in themselves just makes it even sweeter.

Happy Mother’s Day!

Lindsay, a Waxahachie native, is a mother of four and writes her articles during morning nap time. Visit her blog at themommarazziblog.blogspot.com/ to read more about her family. LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // MAY-JUNE 2014

43


Local Shopping

LIFE & STYLE

maRKeTplace JuStuff creationS You’ve wanted to stop and haven’t. come explore unique home decor, custom home furnishings, and eclectic gift items. You will find something to satisfy your curiosity! Hours: Wed-Sat 10am-6pm 106 S Hwy 342, Suite e Red oak 469.323.0844 Justuffcreations.com

BriarPatch #3 haLLmark We have a large selection of cards, gifts, candles and more for all special occassions! 507 n Hwy 77, Suite 406 Waxahachie 972.923.1884

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

houSe of teeS one awesome designer and her trustee sidekicks create anything from t-ball to rock band t-shirts, car decals to business signage, and personalize it all - just for you! let us help you STanD oUT in THe cRoWD!!! 509 george Hopper #B midlothian 972.723.9820 HouseofTeesonline.com

44

living-magazine.com // maY-JUne 2014

merLe norman Davinci Jewelry is a unique and personalized way to show off your style! Stop by today to design a bracelet for yourself or someone you love! like us on Facebook: Facebook.com/merlenormanWaxahachie

401 n Hwy 77, Ste 8 Waxahachie 972.937.9696


the Studio

L & J manufacturing JeweLerS noW caRRYing anTiQUeS & vinTage iTemS Restyle your old, sentimental jewelry into something that is uniquely you! We create men’s & women’s jewelry. Watches in stock. Unique antiques & vintage items! 130 n Hwy 77, Suite D Waxahachie 972.938.0504

With mother’s Day and Father’s Day just around the corner, the Studio is your one stop shop! This handmade native american turquoise piece is sure to wow mom! 3671 n Hwy 77 Waxahachie 972.617.7740

moSaic madneSS mother’s Day and Father’s Day is just around the corner! Stop in and make a unique, one-of-a-kind, handcrafted mosaic that they can treasure for years to come. 211 S college Street Waxahachie 972.937.5797 mosaicmadness.net info@mosaicmadness.net Find us on Facebook!

PLain Jane & co no matter what you're looking for, we can help. Beautiful boots, Yellow Box shoes, clothing, jewelry, Tyler candles, poopourri, consuela bags, home decor and more! 301 S Rogers Waxahachie 972.923.4433

ark country Store looking for the perfect gift for that special cowgirl in your life? We’ve got purses, ipad cases, jewelry and more. Stop on by today! 209 S Highway 77, Waxahachie 972.937.8860 | arkcountryStore.com living-magazine.com // maY-JUne 2014

45


HISTORY

BY KATHRYN KEMP

MAKING THE

WITH HISTORICAL INFORMATION PROVIDED BY ELLEN BEASLEY, PRESERVATIONIST AND AUTHOR OF THE WAXAHACHIE ARCHITECTURE GUIDEBOOK PROJECT IMAGES FROM THE PAST PROVIDED BY SHANNON SIMPSON WITH THE ELLIS COUNTY MUSEUM

OLD NEW While words can often paint a picture and a picture may be worth a thousand words, physical evidence from the past offers an invaluable glimpse back in time. Such is especially true when it comes to old buildings, where timeworn walls could tell stories of times most of us can only imagine and the souls that once inhabited the places we now call home. In downtown Waxahachie, many old buildings have remained true to their original form, bearing only minor alterations throughout the years. With the recent purchase of multiple downtown properties by Jim Lake Companies, a Lake-Moreno partnership headed by Jim Lake, Jr., most notably credited for breathing new life into the Oak Cliff/Bishop Arts district in Dallas, they are facing possibly their biggest update yet. As new businesses are added and old buildings are renovated, the group is working closely with the Heritage Preservation Commission and Downtown Development Director Anita Williamson to ensure the cherished historical features of the buildings are preserved. “It’s been an opportunity to learn about what needs to

46

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // MAY-JUNE 2014

be done in order to update and modernize the structures and to bring back the historical features in a way that compliments what’s already here,” King Grossman, Real Estate Associate for Jim Lake Companies, said. “Making the old the new, that’s what we’re focusing on.” Williamson has been involved with the project from its inception and said both the developers and the Heritage Preservation Commission have worked well together to create what will be best for the downtown area, altering plans and ideas where necessary to ensure the area keeps its charm while also enabling new businesses to thrive. “What I’m most excited about is having those empty buildings put back into use; we’ve had too many empty buildings around the square for too long,” Williamson said, noting that the area sees many visitors who come to admire the courthouse but don’t always see what else is there. “We already do have a lot of great retail and restaurants, this is just going to add to the square and give people a reason to explore the rest of what is down there. We’re really on the cusp of something great.”


THE ROGERS HOTEL Waxahachie residents and visitors alike have admired the Rogers Hotel for years, with its rich history and ‘old-school’ vibe adding a dash of charm to the downtown area. Though it hasn’t housed hotel guests in recent years, in its youth it was a popular stop for many travelers, especially traveling salesmen, as it was convenient to both the train station and the town center. Completed in 1913 by prominent Dallas architect C.D. Hill & Company, it was a project spearheaded by a group of major figures in Waxahachie after the hotel originally in its place burned to the ground in 1911. “A group of local men got together because there had already been conversation that they needed a first-rate hotel, that the hotel that burned was sort of out of date. Waxahachie saw itself as needing to be more up to date and modern,” Ellen Beasley, preservationist and Waxahachie resident who has been researching local buildings for several years, said. The group created a corporation, the Waxahachie Real Estate and Building Association, and began raising the necessary funding. When the hotel was finished, the

corporation owned the building and the property it stood on, and on April 3, 1913, the Rogers Hotel opened its doors to visitors. “At the time, the outside was described as a design of ‘extreme simplicity,’ and the inside was, ‘modest dignity.’ That tells you the intent and the use of the building. It was comfortable, that was the primary thing,” Beasley said. While the lobby has remained mostly unchanged, keeping much of its original tile, layout and décor, a few things are different. For instance, when it was built, a fountain sat in the middle of the lobby for public use (the white public exclusively). “They made a big thing out of it there was a free drinking fountain in the lobby and it was the artisan water pumped up from the well,” Beasley said. While the hotel advertised free hot and cold water for every room, only half of the 60 guest rooms in the original floor plan had private bathrooms. The rest were 12x11 cubicles containing small basins, with guests using community bathrooms. The hotel was built in a U-shape to allow natural air and

sunlight for every room, and a concrete structure made the building virtually fireproof. Salesmen (and other guests) would drop off their trunks, often full of wares for sale, at the trunk room in the basement via a chute off the alley. The “sample rooms” on the second floor allowed the salesmen a place to showcase and sell their merchandise, and a hand-operated freight elevator made hauling large amounts of cotton and other goods to these rooms possible. Special events, a dining room and the rooftop garden at the hotel drew locals in, boosting traffic for those travelers hoping to make a sale. In recent years, a few attempts to revamp the iconic building have proved unsuccessful, but many close to the current project are hopeful this time will be different. LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // MAY-JUNE 2014

47


history

Before the current building was erected in 1913, another hotel (right) sat at the site of the Rogers Hotel. It burned to the ground in 1911.

THE SAMPLE ROOMS Two rooms on the second floor were built as sample rooms in the original floor plans, giving salesmen a place to showcase their goods for local shoppers. Now the two rooms have combined into a larger room making up the new Cotton Gin event center. What is left of the hand-operated freight elevator once used to haul cotton and other goods to the sample rooms now serves as a decorative remnant from the past. Bill Pitts Jr., a lifelong Waxahachie resident, has many memories from his time spent playing downtown while his parents manned his father’s clothing store on the south side of the square. Especially during the depression, he said, there were many children around to play with, as parents who owned businesses could no longer afford to pay workers and both mother and father worked full days. He remembers how he and the other children put the freight elevator to good use. “We boys would get on it and ride to the next floor, then pull the release and ride it down,” Pitts said. “The game was to try and stop it just before it hit bottom.”

48

living-magazine.com // MAY-JUNE 2014

While they remain two separate spaces, the café and main dining room areas on the first floor have been renovated to make up Japanese restaurant Toshio’s. The drug store is now Klopfer Haus, a German restaurant. THE ROOFTOP GARDEN When it was first built, the Rogers boasted a beautiful rooftop garden, where locals and visitors would dance the night away. Plans are being made to eventually bring it back to its former glory.


SOUTH SIDE BUILDINGS In 1914, a fire destroyed the two buildings at the corner of Rogers and Franklin on the south side of the square, both owned by widowed women. Mrs. Johnnie Skinner of Dallas, who owned the corner lot, built a new building and leased it to the recently established Guaranty State Bank of Waxahachie. Next door, Mrs. Pauline Darvish Graber of Brenham built the Empire theater, which was leased to the Waxahachie Amusement Company.

THE TAX BUILDING Corner of Rogers and Franklin Built in 1918 by O.H. Chapman, the striking white building on the northwest corner of the square originally housed Waxahachie National Bank, who leased the property before it was completed. In 1927, after acquiring WNB, Citizens National Bank bought the building and remained there until 1966, leaving the building vacant until the county took over and converted the building to a tax office in 1975.

“The tax department is to be commended for maintaining it and not making a lot of changes to the interior,” Beasley said. “It would be hard to make changes to that building, but that doesn’t mean that some people might not have done it.” The newest owner has plans to convert this space into a restaurant, complete with outdoor seating and tables on the mezzanine level overlooking the square, and elongate the arched windows to allow more light and visibility.

Eventually, Guaranty State Bank became Waxahachie Bank & Trust Co., and in 1953 bought the Empire theater building next door, remodeling the buildings to their current façade in 1954. Fast-forward 60 years to today, where the current owner is ready to reverse this original update made by the bank. “We’re going to remove the plaster to bring back the exposed brick that was once there and bring it back to life,” Grossman said. The buildings will feature storefronts on both the front and back sides, opening up room for a lot more retail space. “The street level facades have been so altered that they didn’t have any historical integrity left, so changes to the bottoms of those buildings were a no brainer, they had to be made,” Williamson said, adding that store fronts on the back will also open up the south side of the square, already full of established retail and restaurant spaces.

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // MAY-JUNE 2014

49


HISTORY

COTTON OFFICES TURNED LOFTS The upper floors of the south side buildings, which are currently being renovated into 10 separate lofts, once contained a large chunk of the town’s cotton offices. Pitts can vividly recall the sights and sounds of Saturdays spent downtown, when locals would converge on the south side of the square and farmers would sell their cotton.

“They’d open up the bag and they’d grab a big fistful of cotton and pull a little sample out then throw the fistful down on the sidewalk. I’ve seen that sidewalk so white,” Pitts said, adding that some more resourceful men would gather the remnants from the ground and sell them - at a much cheaper price, of course.

Interested in leasing one of the spaces? Contact King Grossman at KGrossman@jimlakeco.com or 469.601.9429.

THE EMPIRE THEATER AND HAPPY’S PLACE While fathers sold cotton and mothers did the grocery shopping, Pitts said the children were often given a quarter to fund their Saturday afternoons – enough to purchase a hamburger and a “soda pop,” each a nickel, from Happy Drummond’s hamburger stand (in the alley behind the south side block), then head over to Empire theater for a movie (ten cents) and a bag of popcorn (5 cents). Eventually, Pitts was not spending his days watching shows at the theater, but rather working in the projection room. That didn’t stop him from getting that hamburger from Happy’s Place.

BILL PITTS MEN’S WEAR On the east side of the theater was Pitts’ father’s store, Bill Pitts Men’s Wear, featuring the very popular Stetson hats along with “good clothes.”

Thank you to Bill Pitts for sharing your fascinating stories, to Shannon Simpson for keeping up with the rich history of the county and always providing great images from the past, to Scott Dorsett for capturing and preserving our present in beautiful images for future generations, and to Ellen Beasley for sharing her wealth of research, which makes up much of the historical information in this article. Local residents are lucky to have people like you to preserve our legacy.

50

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // MAY-JUNE 2014

“The projection room was right at the back where I could look out in the alley,” Pitts said. “When I’d get ready to eat something, I’d lean out and tell Happy what I wanted to eat. I’d drop a cord down for him, he’d tie it to the sack, I’d pull it up and toss him the money.” The theater was one of three downtown, including the Texas Theater, where locals could catch a midnight showing of the latest film. When he wasn’t working as a projectionist downtown, Pitts worked as a sacker at the grocery store, where women would often leave their groceries while they attended a midnight showing, leaving Pitts and his coworkers waiting to load up groceries until 2 or 3 in the morning.


living-magazine.com // MAY-JUNE 2014

51


HOME & GARDEN

{

inTeRioR DeSign

}

CuTTing The

CluTTer BY Diane JoHnSon collaRD

Did you ever just start looking around your home and think to yourself, “Where did I get all of this stuff?” It is amazing how quickly things can just appear…and appear….and appear. The stacks get higher and your space gets smaller.

i think we all come to a point where we realize that “our stuff” is out of control. it is easy to collect things that you really don’t want or even like. it just happens. We get gifts that we feel compelled to have on display. We find bargains we can’t resist. When things get chipped or cracked we just turn them around so the crack doesn’t show. We save things “just in case.” and we procrastinate terribly. The bigger the stacks get the more we don’t want to tackle them. after awhile it is just too overwhelming to deal with. But clutter equals dirt and dust; there is no way to keep all of those piles from accumulating dirt that makes the air we breathe and the home we raise our children in unhealthy. if you want a healthy household, you really must try to approach the issue at hand and make the first move toward decluttering. Start in a small area like a bathroom or a hall closet. if you clear out closets one at a time, maybe one a week, you will eventual-

52

living-magazine.com // maY-JUne 2014

ly make great progress. Those small areas are much less intimidating. all of the things that get purged from the closets can be donated to a local charity - Soul’s Harbor will even pick it up and haul it off for you. The most important thing is to get rid of it. Don’t put it in the garage with the idea of getting rid of it later. get rid of it immediately. Remember that procrastination thing? once you see some progress you will be encouraged to move on to larger spaces. Try cleaning out the pantry or the cabinets in the laundry room. get rid of all those old chemicals and cleaners that haven’t been used in years. Purging old chemicals is much like disposing of old medicine in the bathroom cabinet. it is a good idea to do it often. it makes your home a much safer place to be. if you are a magazine and newspaper saver, you are not alone. i go into houses where magazines are stacked in baskets in every corner; they are stacked in boxes, they are stacked on all of the tables and they


e your t a n o D to a “ junk” y! charit a l c o l From that time forward, I have continued to cut out anything I find of interest and either pass the magazine along to someone else or throw it in the trash. I never said I don’t think about saving it every time I drop it in the trash, I do. But I have given myself permission to get rid of something I love but do not need. I am pleased to say that I am now a recovering magazine addict.

are stacked under beds. Now my question is: why? I must admit that I was once a magazine junkie. I had boxes and boxes of magazines that I had saved for years. I had moved those magazines from house to house until one day I just asked myself, why? Well, the answer was I really loved them. It seemed like such a shame to destroy something so beautiful. However, I finally realized that I did not need every page of every magazine. I never poured through them or read them. I just saved them. I decided to go through one box at a time, cutting out anything that I wanted to keep. I had a stack of recipes, a stack of craft ideas, a stack of decorating ideas and a stack of interesting articles. I made great strides in deleting a lot of bulk. I did keep a lot of interesting things that I have yet to use, but I got rid of the magazines.

DIANE JOHNSON COLLARD Diane has been decorating Ellis County for more than 30 years. Contact Diane Johnson Interiors at 972.935.8899 or djohnsoninteriors@hotmail.com.

No one loves glassware and dishes more than I do, but how many pieces can you really use? Must you have them stored in boxes, stacked on top of every piece of furniture, and crammed into every nook and cranny of the house to collect enough dust to plant tomatoes? If you haven’t used them in the last ten years, you will probably not use them in your lifetime. Pass them on, sell them or give them away, just get rid of them. There is nothing uglier than dirty, dusty glassware.

I have been working with someone recently toward decluttering and organizing her home. However, this lady buys for the sake of buying. She orders from catalogs, from TV ads, from QVC and off the Internet. She buys cases of food that she will never eat because it was a good buy. She buys gadgets that are still boxed in the garage. I can go through all of her things and purge to clear things out of the house, but if she puts it all in the garage and continues to buy more, it will never change. Get rid of it. Whatever your issue is, whether it is magazines or china or old newspapers or clothes (or all of the above), it is not healthy to have it stacked and piled where you cannot clean. Get rid of it and breath in some fresh spring air. Your body deserves it and your family will greatly appreciate it. UNTIL NEXT TIME,

happy decorating.


HOME & GARDEN

{ gaRDening }

MAY 2014

BY melinDa Kocian, elliS coUnTY maSTeR gaRDeneRS

PlanTing

a lawn fertilizer. Pinch back mexican bush sage, aster, chrysanthemum, copper canyon daisy and mexican mint marigold to encourage compact plants and more blooms in the fall. These may need to be pruned several times during the year.

» Plant hot-weather and suntolerant plants that bloom all summer. These include: purple fountain grass, esperanza, hibiscus, plumbago, purslane, moss rose, mexican petunia, angel’s trumpet and allamanda. For shade use: “Texas gold” columbine, elephant ears, garden waTCh impatiens and caladiums. » look for insects and diseases » after spring-flowering bulbs on tomatoes and other crops. have bloomed, divide and early detection is imperative. replant them. make sure the Keep the soil adequately moist tops have dried before moving. to prevent blossom-end rot The foliage feeds the bulbs for on tomatoes. Spray for early next year’s blooms. blight with a labeled insecticide » maintain a 2- to 3-inch layer as soon as it is detected. crop of organic mulch around all rotation each year will help plants and bed areas. Keep prevent some diseases from mulch several inches away building up in the soil. from trunks or stems of plants » Horn worms on tomatoes are to prevent excess moisture common and can devastate and the entry of disease and a crop and many flowers. insects. Remove by hand or control FerTiliZing by Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis). Use it with care on any plant, and Pruning because it kills all types of » For larger fruit, manually thin caterpillars including those peaches, apples, pears and which are larva of butterflies plums to be 6 to 8 inches and moths. apart. » Squash vine borers and squash » Fertilize tomatoes and most bugs tend to be a problem. other vegetables every other Destroy the eggs of squash week for productive and bugs found on the underside of vigorous plants. the leaves by hand or a stream » mow lawn grass the proper of water. many vegetable pests height every five days to keep it can often be controlled by dense and healthy. using an appropriate pesticide. » Deadhead roses and other always read the label to make re-blooming plants. Feed fruit sure the product is safe for trees, perennials, annuals, vegetables. ground covers and vines with

54

living-magazine.com // maY-JUne 2014

Bluebonnets & Wildflowers

Bluebonnets (lupinis subcamosus), upright to sprawling spring wildflowers, were designated the state flower of Texas (statesymbolusa.org/texas) in 1901. The state designation was amended in 1971 to include l texensis and “…any other variety of bluebonnet not heretofore recorded.” They are also called buffalo clover, wolf flower and el conejo (Spanish for “the rabbit”). named for their color and sunbonnet-shaped petals, bluebonnets have a wonderful fragrance. The state also designated the city of ennis as the official bluebonnet city, as well as origination of the official bluebonnet trail. The four other species of bluebonnets that grow in Texas are not considered native. Seeds should be sown in the fall to allow plenty of time for germination. once established, plants re-seed profusely. Plants resemble a small rosette in the winter landscape. in the spring, mowing should be postponed in areas where the rosettes are maturing to start blooming.

TiPS & liTTle-Known FaCTS: ellis county is home to a glowing variety of wildflowers, including the most popular bluebonnet, indian paintbrush, mexican hat, pink evening primrose, Texas thistle, indian blanket and cutleaf daisy. native to ellis county, where soils are alkaline, the wildflowers prefer well-drained areas in full-sun. Seeds for early spring flowers are sown in fall—September 1 through november 15. To take advantage of the spring rains, plant fall-blooming wildflowers in mid-spring. The seed can be broadcast over undisturbed soil; however, seed to soil contact is essential. cover seed with no more than one-quarter inch soil. Water thoroughly but gently to keep birds from an easy feast. continue to water every three days for about three weeks if rain is not present to allow for good germination and root growth.


living-magazine.com // MAY-JUNE 2014

55


HOME & GARDEN

{ gaRDening }

JUNE 2014 PlanTing

» This is the best time to plant vinca (periwinkle) in full sun. They like the hot weather, but “Do noT” over water! cora is a new type of vinca that is resistant to soilborne diseases. it comes in many colors except yellow. Water with drip irrigation or soaker hose to keep water off the foliage. » Warm-season color or foliage plants can still be used in containers or in the ground. » Buy and plant crepe myrtles in bloom to be certain you have the desired color. They come in a wide range of colors and sizes. look for ones that are resistant to powdery mildew.

FerTiliZing and Pruning

» Prune back autumn sage and mealy cup sage by one-third. Deadhead other salvias as well as annuals and perennials to stimulate more growth to allow the plant to continue reblooming until late fall. » continue to prune as necessary fall-blooming plants such as mexican bush sage, mexican mint marigold, copper canyon daises, asters and mums to keep them compact

56

living-magazine.com // maY-JUne 2014

and prevent buds from forming prematurely. Don’t prune after September when buds begin to form. » This is the second time to use an all-nitrogen, slowrelease fertilizer on turf grasses. You can cut the amount by half to prevent excessive growth which means more water and more mowing!

garden waTCh

» insects and diseases will be prevalent this time of the year. Treat with an appropriate organic or chemical pesticide, if needed. vegetable plants that cannot be salvaged should be pulled up and destroyed. » look for small, spindleshaped bags hanging from trees. These are bagworms. Pull them off by hand. insecticides are not effective once the bag has formed. They are usually found on cedars, cypress and other cone-bearing trees. However, they can be found on other plants including oaks and barberries. They multiply, can defoliate a tree and eventually kill it.

{ ga

Crape Myrtle

crape myrtle (lagerstroemia indica) is one of the most easily recognizable trees in the landscape. average sizes can range from 3 to 25 feet tall and it may be grown as a shrub or multi-trunked tree, depending on the variety. crinkled flowers bloom in large clusters from white to many shades of pink, red and lavender. Fall color is red on all varieties except the white blooming ones that turn yellow. The white ‘natchez’ has an aromatic fragrance that attracts bees for miles and displays showy cinnamon bark in the winter. once established, all varieties will live on rainwater alone except in extreme conditions. Plant selection should be made in summer when plants are blooming to ensure color of variety, but will be easier to establish the trees if planted in the fall. Pruning should be limited to deadheading clusters of dried seed pods to encourage re-blooming and removal of suckers that shoot out around base of the plant. TiPS & liTTle-Known FaCTS: crape myrtle, native to china and Korea has adapted well to Texas. it is one of the most common small landscape tree or shrub planted in Texas. crape myrtles are a spring flowering deciduous tree bearing seeds or fruit eaten by wildlife. They are best planted in winter months (January to February) and tolerate a wide range of site conditions including drought and alkaline soils. There are many cultivars to choose from with spikes of flowers in a wide variety of colors. crape myrtles come in a variety of sizes and shapes ranging from miniature (3-4’), semidwarf (4-5’), dwarf (5-8’) and tree (20-50’). optional modest pruning of dried pods, new seeds or fruit at tips of limbs after first full bloom in summer can produce reliable fall color. Winter pruning is unnecessary and will not produce more flowers.


living-magazine.com // MAY-JUNE 2014

57


HOME & GARDEN

What’s Bugging You? BY CHRIS BATTERSBY

Let’s face it; we are living in a pest’s and insect’s world. We have moved in on them and they outnumber us by the thousands. Most pests and insects need water to survive, so the best way to coexist with them naturally is to avoid conducive conditions, where they may thrive and multiply.

the issue. Drainage conditions can sometimes be more difficult to evaluate; generally, you want to make sure that water runs away from the house. Gutters, French drains, diversions and soil grade/slope can be helpful ways to make sure that water funnels its way to where it needs to go.

Moisture issues are the primary sources that will attract pests and insects to your home. Fortunately, the same conditions that attract termites are the ones that attract most other pests and insects. So theoretically, if you correct a conducive condition you stop any infestation from occurring. Furthermore, if you are battling ants or American roaches on a regular basis because of a conducive condition, this is a sign that if the condition is not corrected you will likely encounter termites.

Ventilation, or the lack thereof, is the main reason pier and beam homes see American roaches (water bugs) on a regular basis. One way to tell if you have a lack of ventilation is to get under the house (or hire a professional to) and check to see if it is cool, damp and/or if there is a mildew-like smell. To improve the ventilation, you may be able to install more vents and electric fans as well as evaluate drainage in connection with ventilation. Heavy vegetation and foliage can also have an adverse effect on your home because it can hold moisture right next to the foundation.

Water leaks from plumbing, windows, roofs or sewage backups will attract pests and insects directly to the leak, moisture or wood rot. Once fixed, this will almost single-handedly eliminate

58

living-magazine.com // MAY-JUNE 2014

If you are hiring a professional to come in and treat your home, these PMPs

(pest management professionals) are qualified to inspect and evaluate conducive conditions in and around your home. Some of these conducive conditions may be expensive to correct, so you do have to evaluate the costs of treatment compared to the costs of maintenance for conducive conditions. However, you should know that once the infestation is gone, if the conditions remain you will see these pests and insects return at some point. Ultimately, communication with your PMP is paramount in successful control of pests and insects. Once a relationship is established, your PMP can develop a treatment plan you are comfortable with and anticipate and control issues before they occur.

Chris is a pest control technician at Cross Country Pest Control in Waxahachie, serving Ellis County and surrounding areas. Contact them at 972.935.9883 or visit elliscountypestcontrol.com to learn more.


living-magazine.com // MAY-JUNE 2014

59


BY RoSS anDeRSon

Have you ever traveled to the Southwest United States? If so, did you find yourself mesmerized by the vast, stark beauty found in this unique ecological region? Well if you answered no, there are many who would argue that you’re missing out! The desert views that can be found in Arizona, New Mexico and even West Texas are making their way into local landscapes with an ever-increasing popularity and rate. Southwest landscaping and xeriscaping are non-traditional ways of landscaping and gardening that use different techniques and materials to create a landscape that not only looks different, but conserves water and requires little maintenance. it’s not surprising that the overall understanding of a desert ecosystem is a place with little diversity. However, countless varieties of species of plants like cactus, yucca, agave and desert shrub exist that can make southwest landscapes exciting and unique. even more surprising and

60

living-magazine.com // maY-JUne 2014

exciting is that these hardy species are becoming more available at your local nurseries and landscape material centers. Hardly a coincidence, the promotion of the use of these materials to create a desert-like masterpiece is in effort to make more self-sustaining landscapes that require no water irrigation systems. We are all aware of how quickly our thunderstorm-laden springs dry up into blistering 100-degree summers where water is precious and all too often missing from the weather forecast. in recent years, this has even led to city and county-imposed restrictions on water use, especially in landscaping irrigation where what little water is available is wasted in a futile attempt to keep yards lush and green. native desert plants are specialized in surviving in drought conditions, while water-demanding traditional landscapes tend to wither and show obvious signs of stress. The idea of xeriscaping, or smartscaping, is not new. it can be found all over

but only in recent years, as north Texas summers have been increasingly hot and dry, has it found its way into our local area. an opportunity to put a creative twist on a growing trend as well as conserve our most precious natural resource is certainly something to be considered by everyone with a sun hat and a pair of gardening gloves that get taken out and dusted off this time off year. and with little maintenance required for southwest landscapes, you ought to ask yourself what’s holding you back! So get out there and get creative. The next water-conserving hero with a southwest landscape could be you! roSS gReW UP in WaxaHacHie WoRKing in lanDScaPing aT THe gReeneRY, HiS FamilY’S comPanY, anD cURRenTlY RUnS HiS oWn lanDScaPing BUSineSS. HiS immenSe love FoR THe oUTDooRS anD naTURe leaveS Him WiTH no oTHeR oPTion BUT To SPenD HiS DaYS WoRKing oUTSiDe anD DeSigning UniQUe anD cReaTive lanDScaPeS. He can Be conTacTeD aT JRoSSalanDScaPeS@gmail.com.

Done BY ScoTT gReen anD comPanY aT THe gReeneRY in WaxaHacHie.

SOUTHWEST LANDSCAPING

Photos BY sCott doRsEtt // SoUTHWeST lanDScaPe aT vinTage BanK in WaxaHacHie

HOME & GARDEN


Residential Service Providers

living-magazine.com // MAY-JUNE 2014

61


MEDICAL

Stomaching the Facts About Celiac Disease

BY izamaR loReDo

gluTen, gluTen, gluTen. The

word is splayed on the menus of our favorite restaurants, the aisles of our local grocery stores, and seems to be toppling from the mouths of most celebrities lately. The term “glutenfree” may seem to be nothing more than a new diet fad, but for those living with celiac disease, it is the only way to lead a healthy life. one in 100 people worldwide are affected by celiac disease, and the number of people affected by the disease in the United States has quadrupled over the last 50 years.

What is celiac disease? celiac disease is a digestive disease caused by gluten, a protein found in rye, wheat and barley. When affected people ingest the gluten, their immune system attacks the small intestine, damaging the small, hairlike protrusions that line it called villi. The villi are in charge of allowing the healthy nutrients from the food we eat to be absorbed through the small intestine and into the blood stream. Without healthy villi, our bodies become malnourished regardless of how much we eat.

62

living-magazine.com // maY-JUne 2014

Symptoms: according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the symptoms vary among children and adults. in children, symptoms are more digestive and may include: » aBdoMinal BloaTing and Pain » ChroniC diarrhea » VoMiTing » ConSTiPaTion » Pale, Foul-SMelling, or FaTTY STool » weighT loSS

adults are less likely to experience digestive symptoms. instead, they may experience the following: » uneXPlained irondeFiCienCY aneMia » FaTigue » Bone or JoinT Pain » arThriTiS » Bone loSS or oSTeoPoroSiS » dePreSSion or anXieTY » Tingling nuMBneSS in The handS and FeeT » SeiZureS » MiSSed MenSTrual PeriodS » inFerTiliTY or reCurrenT MiSCarriage » CanKer SoreS inSide The MouTh » an iTChY SKin raSh

Why It Happens as of now, there is no definite cause for celiac disease. it is a hereditary disease, meaning that having a firstor second-degree relative with the disease might increase your chances of being diagnosed.

What can I do to treat it? The only way to treat celiac disease is to lead a gluten-free life, meaning cutting out many everyday foods, ranging from bread to beer and even pickles. The list is all-encompassing and most diagnosed patients must work with a dietician to build a diet right for them. For the majority of people, staying away from gluten will heal the small intestine and prevent further harm.

*

Check out page 38 for a gluten-free sesame cookie recipe, plus more great healthy recipes from Ennis Regional Medical Center’s Healthy eRecipes website.


living-magazine.com // MAY-JUNE 2014

63


MEDICAL

worKing in SoMe

QualiTY TiMe Dear Dr. Donaldson, I have been a stayat-home mother, but now I need to return to work. My daughter is 3 years old and I am experiencing a lot of guilt about leaving her with someone else.

How wonderful that you were able to spend the first three years at home with your daughter. What a gift for both of you. The guilt a mother feels at returning to work is only compounded by the expectations she places on herself. We often feel the need to be perfect in our roles as mother, wife, daughter, career woman, sister and friend. We all have a list of “shoulds” for ourselves. Be realistic; there is no such thing as perfection. instead of thinking in terms of what you should do, it is healthier to think in terms of what you choose to do based on your values and priorities. Think quality of time over quantity. Realize that just because someone is a stayat-home mother does not mean they

64

living-magazine.com // maY-JUne 2014

are always engaging in meaningful time with their children. consider how you will spend time with your daughter. When you are together make sure she gets your full attention. This is not the time to multitask. if they are not already in place, create routines so she knows what to expect during her day. This provides her with a sense of security. Knowing she can count on you to read a bedtime story every night or take her to the park every Saturday will strengthen the bond between the two of you. For working mothers with older children, don’t let your children play on your guilt. Kids have been known to manipulate parents who they know are feeling guilty about something. of course there will be trade-offs. maybe you spend less time cooking elaborate meals in favor of simpler fare so you gain more time with your daughter. or you hire a housekeeper so you don’t have to spend as much time on household chores. There are simple things you can do to let her know you are thinking of her while you are at work, such as tucking a note in her lunchbox.

consider the benefits of being a working mother. You are acting as a positive role model for your child. You may feel more confident and fulfilled, which will enhance the time you spend with her. Your family will have the extra income for outings or vacations and dance or music lessons. There are even benefits to preschool/ daycare. Studies suggest that children develop social and coping skills when they participate in these programs. if you have the option, you may want to think about sending her to a mother’s Day out program first. These programs are usually only two days per week and would give her the opportunity to gradually become accustomed to a more structured setting with other children. Remember self-care during this transition back to work. Juggling the demands of running a home, having a job and raising a child can be fatiguing. make time to do something special for yourself.

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 // MAY-JUNE 2014

65


MEDICAL

Clearing the Air around

Seasonal

Allergies You don’t want mosquitoes ruining your summer barbeque, picnic or trip to the pool, so you buy a can of repellent. You don’t want the sun’s harmful rays damaging your skin, so you slather on the sunscreen. Now nothing can ruin your day of fun in the sun...

seasonal allergies. Even after trying a cornucopia of allergy medications readily available at the supermarket, millions of Americans can’t find relief. Consequently, a lot of people give up and decide to just ‘deal’ with being miserable.

But then you step outside, take a breath of fresh air and are reminded of the one thing that can still make you miserable: allergies. Late spring and early summer are particularly bad for select types of seasonal allergies.

“Allergies have been shown to have a detrimental impact on quality of life and things like work performance, school performance, sleep and general happiness,” explains Dr. Laurie. “But most studies show that people who have allergies don’t seek care.”

“Depending on the time of year, certain allergens are in the air,” says Scot Laurie, M.D., an allergist on the medical staff at Baylor Medical Center at Waxahachie. “April, May and June are grass pollen season.”

That’s a big mistake. “It has also been shown that allergy specialists are effective at improving quality of life and can typically control patients – even those who have severe allergies,” Dr. Laurie says.

Grass allergy sufferers will be glad to know that the suffocating heat of late July and August does have the perk of tamping down the amount of pollen and allergens in the air. However, that could change if there is a lot of rain in the coming weeks.

Finding the Right Relief

Regardless, even if there is a break in airborne allergens, the respite won’t last long. Late August and early September bring fall weed allergy season.

Throwing in the Tissue

Unlike with mosquito repellent and sunscreen, which are normally effective if used as directed, people often fail to find relief from the watery eyes, runny nose and numerous other symptoms associated with

66

By Julie Martin of Baylor Waxahachie

living-magazine.com // MAY-JUNE 2014

There are three treatment approaches for seasonal allergies: avoidance, medication and immunotherapy. The first approach, avoidance, isn’t possible or desirable for most people. Staying away from a known allergen or limiting time outside when pollen counts are high may be wise counsel, but it’s neither foolproof nor practical in many cases. There has long been a potpourri of overthe-counter (OTC) allergy medications available, but choosing which one is best can be daunting. “I advise people to take a more proactive approach, rather than a reactive approach,”

says Dr. Laurie. In other words, take one of the daily OTC antihistamine medications regularly during allergy season, rather than waiting for the onset of symptoms. These medications do have their limitations. “You may take one appropriately, but it may not necessarily work 100 percent. It might only reduce your symptoms by 25 percent,” explains Dr. Laurie. There also are supplements that market themselves as ‘natural antihistamines,’ but it’s important to keep in mind that just because something can technically be called an antihistamine due to certain inherent properties, it doesn’t mean there is clinical evidence demonstrating effectiveness in humans. For people who have gone the OTC or supplement route without relief, there are a host of pills and sprays an allergist can prescribe based on a detailed assessment. Allergists also can offer immunotherapy, better known as allergy shots, which build up a patient’s tolerance to bothersome allergens. In fact, with all the treatment options now available, sometimes people are surprised to find that the biggest barrier to overcoming decades of suffering from seasonal allergies is a trip to the doctor’s office. Physicians are members of the medical staff at one of Baylor Health Care System’s subsidiary, community, or affiliated medical centers and are neither employees nor agents of those medical centers, Baylor Medical Center at Waxahachie or Baylor Health Care System.


sudoku is a logic-based number placement puzzle where the objective is to ďŹ ll 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 // maY-JUne 2014

67


LA FIN

SATISFIED IN SEATTLE

every summer we try to escape the heat and fly to the Pacific northwest only to find airfares are outrageous and hotels are packed. When we found cheap flights in late February, we took a long weekend and headed off. We knew Seattle was a hip city with an austin vibe, but it was much smaller in feel than i imagined. it has a welcoming, quirky and unpretentious attitude. in a city full of fierce neighborhood patriots, Seattle residents are all attached to their particular hills. We met up with a friend who has called Seattle home for 12 years, and he showed us some of his favorites. We started off with brunch at the Stumbling goat Bistro in charming Phinney Ridge. We had a Bloody mary, smoked salmon omelets and a variety of house-made pastries to fuel us up for a day of sightseeing. capitol Hill has long been the white-hot center of cool, but Ballard is the newest hip neighborhood with an abundance of coffee shops, cool restaurants and art studios. after brunch we toured the Ballard locks, one of the city’s most popular tourist spots, providing a link for boats between the salt water of Puget Sound and the fresh water of the Ship canal. Tourists and locals enjoy watching the parade of boats pass through and the water levels adjusting to allow for safe passage. You can also observe a fish ladder, built to allow salmon and other fish to go around the dams and other man-made objects on the way to their spawning grounds. We checked into Hotel andra, a boutique hotel in the heart of downtown that lived up

to all of its great reviews. our modern room was spacious and well priced with all the amenities you could want, including a view of the escala high-rise condominium across the street, where the infamous penthouse scenes took place in Fifty Shades of grey. For dinner, our friend took us to the Queen anne district, where we dined at How To cook a Wolf - an odd name for a restaurant, but with a well-crafted menu of small plates showcasing seafood and house-made pastas. The octopus bolognaise over pappardelle was superb. on Sunday morning we walked down to Pike Place market. Spread across nine acres, the famous public market is set up with aisles of gleaming fruits and vegetables, buckets overflowing with floral bouquets and mounds of ice displaying freshly caught seafood. There are also hundreds of booths selling locallymade jewelry, clothing and gifts. as we strolled through the area, listening to an array of talented street musicians, we grazed on an outrageous cup of mac and cheese, curried pork pot stickers and an assortment of handmade sausages in the many food stalls throughout the market. Pike Place is also home to the original Starbucks and the flagship Sur la Table store.

relaxed with a bottle of wine while sitting by the fire at Willows lodge before heading back across the lake for dinner at Ray’s Boathouse overlooking Puget Sound and the olympic mountains. as our weekend was drawing to a close, i had read about a small oyster bar on old Ballard avenue called the Walrus and the carpenter. They don’t take reservations but we were able to grab an early seat at the bar. as i admired the sheer gorgeousness of the whitewashed “post-industrial” décor with its icy baskets of oysters and its brambly chandelier, i knew why this little gem has gotten the attention of every food magazine and critic in the country. every detail, from the way your waiter describes the local oyster selections to the yellow and white stools that line the bar, is perfectly done. The weather was cold and rainy, living up to its reputation, so we didn’t have an opportunity to take a ferry to Bainbridge island or a seaplane over to victoria, but we still fell in love with the Pacific northwest. of course, as we headed to the airport the sun came out and we could finally see mount Rainier and the other snow-capped mountains looming over this hip haven. We knew then that we would certainly be back.

later in the day, we drove just 15 miles northeast across lake Washington to Woodinville, where we enjoyed wine tasting at chateau Ste. michelle in the columbia valley. The oldest winery in Washington State, the chateau sits on a lush 87-acre estate. From there, we

cindy Burch and her husband, andrew, own and operate The Doves nest in historic downtown Waxahachie. cindy is also a freelance writer, caterer and consultant. Her award-winning cookbook, “The Doves nest Restaurant: new american Recipes From a Historic Texas Town,” is in its fifth printing.

68

living-magazine.com // maY-JUne 2014

cindy Burch



Dental

Afraid of the Dentist?

FEAR NO MORE!

Come sleep through your dental work with oral sedation. Stop by today to meet Dr. Martin & his wonderful staff!

Mention this ad and get

FREE WHITENING FOR LIFE when you become a patient at Fearless Dental.

FREE trays & FREE whitening gel at every cleaning. • White Fillings • Crowns • Bridges • Veneers • Implants • Implant Dentures • Root Canals • Extractions • Invisalign • Deep Cleaning • Laser Gum Treatments • Accepts Patients of All Ages

SAME-DAY TREATMENT AVAILABLE. Convenient Hours:

Monday-Thursday 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. & Friday 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. 101 Austin Boulevard • Suite 100 • Red Oak • 972-617-3322 • www.FearlessDental.com No interest financing W.A.C. for up to 2 years. In network with these major PPO plans: Aetna, Delta, Cigna, Metlife, Guardian, United Healthcare, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, Humana, Principal, Ameritas, Dental Select, UCCI.


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.