September 2014 Ellis County Living Magazine

Page 1

FASHION RECIPES HOME TRAVEL HEALTH MEDICAL

Living Weddings 2014

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Gateway Mortgage Group, LLC NMLS 7233

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HAVE YOU THOUGHT ABOUT A DENTAL IMPLANT SOLUTION? Our patients are smiling! With dental implants we create confident smiles.

www.drhcooke.com Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

Howard F. Cooke, D.M.D., M.S. BOARD CERTIFIED BY THE AMERICAN BOARD OF ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY.

Dr. Cooke has specialized in dental implants for over 16 years. He is recognized in the community for his outstanding results and accomplishments in this area and in his practice as a full scope Oral and Maxillofacial surgeon.

Two convenient locations to serve you: 1626 W. Business 287 Suite 208 Waxahachie, TX 972.923.2900

7988 W. Virginia Dr. Suite 200 Dallas, TX 972.296.1992

Find Dr. Cooke on The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons website. like us on facebook: facebook.com/maxillofacial.oral.surgeon

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<NXM :UTS F 5F\ ,FQF YOU’RE INVITED! WHAT: The 3rd Annual Wish Upon A Paw Gala Benefitting the Ellis County SPCA Italian Dinner, Live & Silent Auctions

WHEN: Saturday, September 27th, 2014, at 6 P.M. WHERE: Midlothian Conference Center TICKETS: $30 at the SPCA, online at https://ecspca.ejoinme.org/tickets or at the door ZITA

HONORED GUEST: Dale Hansen of WFAA PICK OF THE LITTER

ACTUAL SHELTER DO G:

SPONSORS: TOP DOG & COOL CAT

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Grant & Weedon, CPAs

Mrs. Kay Bill

Vintage Bank, Main Street Gym, Tom Smalley Attorney at Law, City Real Estate, Linebarger Goggan Blair and Sampson LLP, HEB, Legacy Pool & Spas, Gerdau Ameristeel, Anytime Fitness

MUSIC BY: STAGE VOLUME ENTERTAINMENT

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THE CAT’S MEOW

ELLIS COUNTY SPCA CALL US TODAY TO DONATE FOR THE LIVE OR SILENT AUCTIONS! 2570 FM 878 • WAXAHACHIE • 972.935.0756 • ELLISCOUNTYSPCA.ORG

Living

ELLIS COUNTY

MAGAZINE

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 5 PUBLISHER CINDY CAMP EXECUTIVE CREATIVE DIRECTOR JENNIFER KEMP CREATIVE DIRECTOR LINDSEY KEENEY EDITOR IZAMAR LOREDO 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.Š using only environmentally-friendly ink. Copyright 2014, ECL Media, Inc.Š 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

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LINDSEY is the creative director for Living Magazine. She grew up in Ennis and graduated from Texas A&M University. 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. IZAMAR is the editor of Living Magazine. She grew up in Red Oak and graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a bachelor’s degree in corporate communication. In her free time she enjoys trying out cool new places around the Ellis County area, shopping for the best deals and pinning her life away on Pinterest. Contact Izamar at editor@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.�

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FEATURED WEDDINGS

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TRENDY BRIDAL ACCESSORIES

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BUILD THE PERFECT WEDDING PLAYLIST

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A WHOLE NEW (DESSERT) WORLD MUSIC: DANCE WITH ME WEEKEND IN BASTROP A MOTHER’S TALE: 10 YEARS GUY TALK: 2920 DAYS

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$5281' 72:1 EDITOR’S NOTE I can’t believe it’s about to be fall already! So many good things happen in the fall: college football, pumpkins, Halloween, the arrival of cooler temperatures, and an incredible amount of activities around Ellis County! Here at the Living Magazine office we’ve been immersing ourselves in all things wedding. We’ve had so much fun focusing this issue on the four wedding themes of boho, eclectic, country and classic. It’s been great being able to get creative with each category and discover just how much weddings have changed from the traditional wedding. We hope that these articles will guide you on deciding what kind of wedding you’d like one day, or will just entertain and inform you of all the new wedding trends. You’ll also find some ideas on extending your theme into your music selections, drinks, and even your first home décor! Coming up is the holiday issue and I’m pumped to get into the holiday spirit three months before anybody else. As if I needed an excuse to play my Michael Bublé Christmas CD on loop! Enjoy this issue as much as we enjoyed putting it together, and as always, if you have any questions, comments, or ideas, feel free to e-mail me at editor@living-magazine.com.

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CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AUCTION, “ENNIS DYNASTY” SEPTEMBER 6, 5 P.M. Sokol Hall Dinner, drinks and auctions. For tickets or more information contact the chamber at 972.878.2625. RAILS, BALES AND BLUEBONNET TRAILS SEPTEMBER 11, 6 P.M. Ennis State Bank Event Center Preview the new Ennis cellphone audio tour, Rails, Bales and Bluebonnet Trails, which will take its users on a historical tour of Ennis. 16TH ANNUAL CANCER MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNEY SEPTEMBER 13-14 Old Brickyard Golf Course For more information on sponsorships or registration call Hazel at 972.875.5995. PRESTAGE FAN FEST IN DOWNTOWN ENNIS CELEBRATING AAA TEXAS NHRA FALL NATIONALS SEPTEMBER 17, 5 P.M. - 10 P.M. Downtown Ennis, North Dallas and Knox area Check out NHRA pro and sportsman cars, food trucks, music and more. AAA TEXAS NHRA FALL NATIONALS SEPTEMBER 18-21 Texas Motorplex Competitive drag racing. For tickets visit TexasMotorplex. com. HELPING HANDS PRESENTS “TASTE OF ENNIS” SEPTEMBER 25, 6 P.M. Knights of Columbus Hall Admission is $10 per person, for more information call 972.875.0218 or email hhe. jhejny@sbcglobal.net.

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

LEADING LADIES BY KEN LUDWIG OCTOBER 3-19 Ennis Public Theatre For more information call 972.878.7529 or www. ennispublictheatre.com. NHRDA WORLD FINALS AT THE TEXAS MOTORPLEX OCTOBER 3-4 Texas Motorplex Admission for adults is $25, kids ages 6-12 $10 and Pit Pass Parking, $20. Buy your tickets online at nhrdarickets.eventbrite.com with the code NHRDA and save 20%. A BAD YEAR FOR TOMATOES, BY JOHN PATRICK OCTOBER 10-26 Theatre Rocks! For more information and times go to www.theatrerocks.com. RUGGED MANIAC 5K MUD RUN OBSTACLE COURSE OCTOBER 11, 9 A.M. Texas Motorplex Register at http://www.ruggedmaniac.com/obstaclerace/dallas-tx-october-11th/. HALLOWEEN AT MYRTLE CEMETERY OCTOBER 16, 6 P.M. TO 8 P.M. Tour the cemetery with Jim Templin. AUTUMN DAYS IN ENNIS FALL FESTIVAL Downtown Ennis OCTOBER 18, 10 A.M. – 4 P.M. Face painting, petting zoo and photo booth. For more information call 972.878.2625. 1ST ANNUAL YMCA ENNIS MONSTER MASH 5K DASH OCTOBER 25 Benefitting the future YMCA of Ennis.

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DALE HANSEN FOOTBALL CLASSIC SEPTEMBER 5-6 Lumpkins Stadium A three game exhibition match up between some of the best high school football teams from Texas. For more information go to ww.dalehansenfootballclassic.com. THE DALLAS STRING QUARTET SEPTEMBER 6, 7 P.M. SAGU Performance Hall $20 at the door. Call 972-938-1181 for more details. PayPal is available at waxahachiesymphony.org. 11TH ANNUAL BRIDAL EXTRAVAGANZA SEPTEMBER 14, 12 P.M. TO 4 P.M. Waxahachie Civic Center Featuring today’s trends for modern brides! For more information call 469.309.4040 or www.waxahachieciviccenter.org. OKTOBERFEST SEPTEMBER 20, 10 A.M TO 8 P.M. Waxahachie Civic Center A community-wide event offering food, fun and entertainment for all ages. CHAUTAUQUA ASSEMBLY SEPTEMBER 27 Chautauqua Auditorium in Getzendaner Park The Taste, Toast, and Talk of Texas. For more information visit www.waxatxchautauqua.org. TIM ZIMMERMAN AND THE KING’S BRASS SEPTEMBER 27, 7 P.M. Waxahachie Bible Church, 621 N. Grand FREE concert. Doors open at 6:15 pm. Call 972.928.1181 for more information. WAXAHACHIE ANNUAL CHAMBER AUCTION Salsa Nights OCTOBER 4 Silent Auction, dinner, dancing, open bar and live auction. Register at waxahachiechamber.com.

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

SHOPPING

WAXAHACHIE

2ND THURSDAY LADIES’ NIGHT OUT

SEPTEMBER 11, 5 P.M.TO 8 P.M. Every Month in Downtown Waxahachie with Participating Merchants

DOWNTOWN ART WALK SEPTEMBER 11, 5 P.M. TO 8 P.M. Participating Waxahachie Downtown Merchants

JUNK IN THE TRUNK OCTOBER 11, 9 A.M. TO 2 P.M.

SIP N’ STROLL

SEPTEMBER 20, 2 P.M. TO 7 P.M. Downtown Waxahachie

go-karts race to the finish. For more information: http:// www.waxahachielionsclub.org/ minigrandprix/default.htm

2ND THURSDAY LADIES’ NIGHT OUT

CROSSROADS OF TEXAS FILM FESTIVAL

OCTOBER 9, 5 P.M. TO 8 P.M. Every Month in Downtown Waxahachie with Participating Merchants

OCTOBER 9-12 For more information: www. crossroadsoftxff.com

WAXAHACHIE LIONS CLUB MINI GRAND PRIX

OCTOBER 25 Historic Downtown Waxahachie

OCTOBER 3-4 Historic Downtown Waxahachie Miniature NASCAR-style

BRAZOS CHAMBER ORCHESTRA OCTOBER 21, 7:30 P.M. SAGU Performance Hall $20 at the door. PayPal is available at waxahachiesmphony.org. Call 972.938.1181 for more information.

FALL FESTIVAL & 5K OCTOBER 18 Midlothian Multi-Purpose Stadium 5K at 8 A.M., Festival 9 A.M. TO 3 P.M. Over 200 booths of artists, arts and crafts, food, and children’s activities.

WAXAHACHIE COMMUNITY THEATER: MEREDITH WILSON’S THE MUSIC MAN OCTOBER 24-26 Chautauqua Auditorium For showtimes and tickets visit www.waxahachiecommunitytheatre.com.

6TH ANNUAL RIDE OF CHAMPIONS OCTOBER 25, 3 P.M. Campfire Creek Therapeutic Riding Center ROC celebrates the achievements of its riders.. Contact: Emily Oliver at 972.937.7265 or visit campfirecreek. org.

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COMMUNITY GARDENING CLASS OCTOBER 4, 8 A.M. TO 11 A.M. Ridgeview Park Hosted by the local Master Gardeners. Free to the public.

SINCE 1850

DOWNTOWN TRICK OR TREAT OCTOBER 31, 4 P.M. TO 6 P.M. Heritage Park Annual trick-or-treat of downtown businesses.

TEXAS COUNTRY REPORTER FESTIVAL

TRICK OR TREAT ON THE SQUARE OCTOBER 31 Downtown Waxahachie

CITY OF MIDLOTHIAN ANIMAL CONTROL PET ADOPTION EVENT SEPTEMBER 20 AND OCTOBER 18, 9 AM TO 11 AM Walmart Garden Center Midlothian Animal Control offers free adoptions to keep its shelter open for more strays. For more visit www.midlothian.tx.us/animalcontrol. THE ELLIS COUNTY SPCA’S “WISH UPON A PAW GALA” SEPTEMBER 27, 6 P.M. Midlothian Conference Center For information on sponsorships or tickets, email director@elliscountyspca.org.

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THE RED OAK FALL FESTIVAL OCTOBER 25, 2014 Old Town Park at the corner of Live Oak and Waller The Parks Commission and The Oaks Fellowship team up to create a safe atmosphere for children to play games, eat candy, go on a hay ride, win prizes and have fun.

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

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Bling It On Blingin’ Gypsy Boyce Feed & Grain Corp. Brent Hughes Photography Carol’s Designs Catfish Plantation Check It Out Cherics Antiques Chic Boutique 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 and Gifts Frank’s Urban Collection FRESH at Villa Flora GG’s Vintage Home Gingerbread Antique Mall Gran’s Antiques 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 Village Antiques Pearman Oil LP Gas Inc. Plain Jane & Co. Paris Flea Market Red Barn Salon Friends SoCo Depot T. Beresford Teresa McNiel - Coldwell Banker Texas Pearls & Co. The Briarpatch The Shabby Sheep The Shop Toshio’s Taste of Japan & Klopfer Haus Town Square Title Waxahachie Daily Light Well Inked Custom Invitations Wray, Willett & Stoffer

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Members of the Waxahachie Downtown Merchants Association:

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Always start with a clean, moisturized face. Baking soda and water mixed into a paste works wonders as a natural exfoliator.  Most people recommend a primer as it helps reduce pore size and even out skin tone, along with other benefits depending on the brand. For someone on a budget and already short on her beauty routine fuse, it’s not necessary. The moisturizer itself acts as a primer for the most part, helping your makeup glide on and stay on longer.

CONCEALER

For under eyes, start from the inner corner down mid-cheek and back up to the outer corner, creating an upside down triangle. Make sure you’re not loading too much on! Concealer can be tricky. Too much can magnify problem areas instead of hiding them. For dark circles, find a concealer-highlighter combo.  Conceal blemishes you find unsightly. For really stubborn acne, create a paste with water and mineral makeup and dab it on the blemish. This helps hide redness without caking makeup on.

BLUSH

For fair skin, it’s best to go with a natural pink or peach color. Deeper skin tones look great with a hot pink or orange hued blush.  Start with a smile. The blush should start at the apples of your cheeks and go up and outward towards your ears, generally right on top of your cheekbone.

FOUNDATION

Finding the correct foundation can be difficult, especially if you’re buying from a drugstore. While being cheaper, drugstores tend to have fewer shades to choose from and often do not provide full coverage. Ultimately, I recommend splurging on your foundation. There are several different ways to apply foundation. Feel free to use whatever is comfortable for you. I personally use my fingers. Âť Start from the center of your face, working outward Âť Make sure to really rub in around the forehead and jawline. Even if it is a close match to your shade, it can still be noticeable! Âť If you need a lot of coverage, feel free to “buildâ€? foundation. After applying your first layer of foundation and letting it dry, repeat the process for an airbrushed look! Âť Lastly, use a mineral powder or compact powder to finish the look. This not only completes the face but also insures that it will last through the night and keep shine at bay.

CONTOUR CHART

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

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BASE

CONTOURING

Contouring is hard. It takes practice. The look is also very dramatic and can be overwhelming when first tried, but the results are amazing!  Just as the blush was done, use a bronzer and start at the apples of your cheeks going up and outward. This line goes under where the blush went. For beginners, try stippling the brush as opposed to rubbing the bronzer on so it will look less dramatic.  The bronzer needs to be added to the hairline area as well as the jawbone. You can also add it to the side of the nose if you would like to make it more prominent. Imagine the shape of a 3 when applying contouring powder (hairline, cheek, jawline). Don’t worry, if it looks crazy you did it right!  Highlighter is next. It goes on top of the cheekbone and around the brow bone. You can use highlighter on the center of your nose as well to thin the nose’s appearance.  Finally, you blend. Taking a brush or a makeup sponge, wipe up and outward gently under the contouring so it blends with foundation.

BOHEMIAN BEAUTY:

COUNTRY CUTIE:

ECLECTIC EMPRESS:

CLASSIC CHIC:

FACE

FACE

FACE

FACE

This look is for the natural bride who wants to go subtle on her big day.

For the southern sweetheart who wants natural with a kick.

Start with a BB cream. A sheer veil of foundation is perfect for letting your natural beauty shine. Try Age Defense BB Cream by Clinique ($37)

EYES

Light browns or nude colors. A thin line of eyeliner on the outer corner of your eye will make your lashes appear fuller without crossing the natural line.

CHEEKS

Use a light pink that reflects the color of your natural flirty blush. MAC’s Powder Blush in Lovecloud is a beautiful match! ($22)

LIPS

Use a matte lip color like “Natural” By E.L.F. topped with a clear gloss. ($3)

For the daring bride that likes to arrive with a statement.

Use something with medium-to full coverage such as MAC Pro Longwear ($27) or Revlon Photoready ($13.99)

Using a tinted moisturizer can give you a sheer, glowing look. Try Sonia Kashuk Radiant Tinted Moisturizer ($12.99)

EYES

EYES

Mix light browns and golds with dark brown for a dramatic smoky eye.

CHEEKS

A hot pink will have every cowboy in the place lookin’! Try Hard Candy’s Blush Crush in Honeymoon ($7)

LIPS

A warm berry color will look sweet and sassy. Try Clinique’s Chubby Moisturizing stick in Broadest Berry ($17)

Get the Look

Bright colors will make you pop! Try adding colored eyeliner or a touch of neon color on the crease of your shadow.

CHEEKS

For the Hepburnstyle bride who wants an ageless look. Use a matte mineral foundation for a soft natural finish. Bare Minerals Matte Foundation is a great choice! ($27)

EYES

Go for the cat eye look. A long line of liquid eyeliner extended with a simple wing and a very natural matte brown color will look exquisite!

CHEEKS

Use a Mauve or purple tone blush. Darker colors work well with contouring and dramatic looks. Maybelline’s Master Glaze Blush in Make A Mauve is perfect for this! ($8.99)

Go for the cat eye look. A long line of liquid eyeliner extended with a simple wing and a very natural matte brown color will look exquisite! Use a peach tone for this, something very light and playful such as Maybelline’s Dream Bouncy blush in Rose Petal ($7.99)

LIPS

LIPS

Use a darker color like “Romance” by Cover Girl ($6.74)

Use a red matte color like E.L.F.’s Matte Lip Color in Rich Red ($3)

MAYBELLINE MASTER GLAZE BLUSH

E.L.F

MATTE LIP COLOR

SONIA KASHUK

RADIANT TINTED MOISTURIZER

BARE MINERALS

MATTE FOUNDATION

TRISTA is our resident

beauty expert/ jack-of-all-trades intern/ photographer. Contact her and see her work at facebook.com/ tristamccormickphotos.

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

21

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

Ellis County Living Magazine 2014

WEDDING ISSUE Waxahachie Civic Center Presents THE 11TH ANNUAL

# SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2014 12 P.M. TO 4 P.M. This September, the Waxahachie Civic Center continues its long-standing tradition of gathering the top wedding vendors in Ellis County under one roof, giving brides the opportunity to plan a beautiful wedding right here at home. Living Magazine once again is proud to join the Civic Center in becoming a resource for all things wedding in our area. We hope these next pages will inspire and guide brides and brides-to-be in their journey to planning the most unforgettable day of their lives.

2014 WEDDING SECTION: FEATURED WEDDINGS 24 ENGAGEMENT ANNOUNCEMENTS 34 TIPS FROM THE WEDDING PLANNER 35 WEDDING FEATURES 36

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

WEDDING

WKH YHQGRUV CEREMONY AND RECEPTION:

ALDREDGE HOUSE, DALLAS DAY-OF COORDINATOR:

CHELSEA ARNAL WITH EXPERIENCE SPECIALIST GOWN:

J.CREW CATERER:

FOOD GLORIOUS FOOD PHOTOGRAPHER:

SARA AND ROCKY PHOTOGRAPHY FLORAL:

STEMS OF DALLAS CAKE:

FROSTED ART RECEPTION MUSIC:

HOLT AND STOCKSLAGER

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Our first date was at Acme F&B in Dallas. I knew things were off to a good start when we were still talking when the restaurant closed. A string of great dates followed over the next few weeks, ranging from seeing a concert at House of Blues to a long game of “would you rather� at the Dallas World Aquarium to Baylor football games in Waco. Fast-forward a year to Jake’s birthday trip to San Francisco, where he proposed in Alamo Square Park with the “Painted Ladies� as a backdrop.

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I wanted the wedding to have a romantic springtime garden feel (ironic because it poured rain!). So our colors were peach, gold and green. We used lots of candlelight and flowers. Jake’s only request was to pick the music. Ten minutes

after I agreed, he had already booked a Simon & Garfunkel cover band, which was actually great for an intimate setting. We also had the idea of doing lawn games outside in the courtyard. Our friends made us a custom cornhole set and giant Jenga blocks. Even with the rain, we played the cornhole and Jenga on the front porch of the house.

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I know traditionally, the bride and groom are not supposed to see one another before walking down the aisle. However, Jake and I had a “first look� before the ceremony. It was such a special moment perfectly captured by our photographers. Jake and I were able to take a moment to ourselves before everything got started. Also, rather than a traditional minister, Jake asked his best friend from high school, Greg Jackson, to marry us. Greg was brilliant! I can’t tell you how many guests told us it was the BEST sermon they’d ever heard at a wedding.

+HOSIXO +XEE\

The biggest way Jake helped was by constantly reminding me to stay focused on the purpose of the day. He would always say, “Remember to experience every moment and stay present.� I think that really helped me to enjoy the whole process. His family also threw a wonderful rehearsal dinner upstairs at Eno’s Pizza Tavern. Oh, and one thing Jake made sure to stick around for was the cake tasting!

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I just want to remind brides what Jake told me every day. Stay present in the moment, soak it all in, enjoy the spotlight, and be thankful for all the love you are showered with on your wedding day. Oh, and drink lots of wine!

- Alaina Knop Hale, Bride LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

WEDDING

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Allison Hartley and Francisco Silveira Neto were married on May 17, 2014. When Allison came to FRESH to discuss her ceremony and reception flowers with us, she already had her venues and colors selected. The ceremony was held at Church of the Incarnation in Dallas, which was one of the most beautiful churches I have ever seen. Allison wanted emerald green as her primary wedding color, as it is her favorite color. We also incorporated shades of green, coral oranges and whites to complete her and her mom’s vision. Courtney Keen-Flores of FRESH designed the bride’s bouquet of white hydrangea, succulents, protea, orchids, ranunculus, peonies and bright green foliage, finished with a white satin ribbon. The bride’s gown was by Wtoo. Allison wanted something a little different for her gown that would still be elegant, yet simple and fun. The pattern of the dress she selected was very unique and looked very couture. The

bridesmaids’ gowns were a very beautiful shade of emerald and each one selected her own style of gown. Their bouquets were white with accents of coral and orange and finished with an emerald green ribbon. During the thirteen-month engagement, Allison’s mother, Sharron Benge-Hartley, assisted with all of the planning. The venue director of Dallas World Aquarium, where the reception was held, was a huge asset to the reception planning and coordinating process. The reception decor was also designed by Courtney at FRESH, continued with white hydrangea, protea, orchids, succulents and tropical accents with a combination of tall and low arrangements in glass containers. The guests dined on both grilled mahi mahi and medallions of beef tenderloin with rosemary Gorgonzola sauce,

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

roasted new potatoes and mixed vegetables. After dinner the guests enjoyed dancing into the night with the band Overdrive. A fun reception was a high priority for the bride and groom. As the night came to an end, the guests were sent off with a traditional Brazilian wedding favor called a Bem Casado, which is a dessert/cookie symbolizing two parts sealed through complicity and mutual respect. It is said to bring luck and happiness for the ones who taste it on the wedding day. Wedding ceremonies and receptions are so memorable to guests when the bride and groom incorporate traditions, style and personality into their celebrations. Allison wanted to tell future brides and grooms not to sweat the small stuff. Keep in mind that at the end of the day, it is about the person you are committing yourself to. The rest is just icing on the cake!

- Teresa Choate, Wedding Planner

7+(

YHQGRUV CEREMONY:

CHURCH OF THE INCARNATION RECEPTION:

DALLAS WORLD AQUARIUM WEDDING PLANNER:

TERESA CHOATE GOWN:

WTOO PHOTOGRAPHER:

AUTUMN LIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY FLORAL DESIGNER:

FRESH CAKE:

CAKEWALK BAKE SHOP RECEPTION MUSIC:

OVERDRIVE

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

WEDDING

0DWKHUV :LOOLDPV 'HWDLOV The colors we chose were coral and turquoise. For decor we made flower arrangements for the tables. The venue also had different dĂŠcor that you could use. The wedding took place outside under a large oak tree. We each had 5 bridesmaids/groomsmen.

Our food caterer, Pulidos Mexican Restaurant, brought us some amazing food. We served chicken and beef fajitas and it was very easy set up as well as clean up. Pulidos took care of everything and even provided plates and plastic ware.

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All of our decorations were DIY. My awesome mother-in-law is great at centerpieces so we ordered flowers and got them at market price. It saved us a lot of money and they looked great!

+HOSIXO 9HQGRUV We didn’t hire a wedding planner, but the venue gave us a coordinator the day of the wedding, which was awesome!

7+(

I knew I wanted something that had lace in it and was strapless. Other than that, I wasn’t really sure what I wanted. I was hoping to find something affordable, which I did! I actually found my dress on the first shopping trip we went on and it was the tenth dress I tried on. I knew from the moment I put it on that it was the one. I got a great deal

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

on it too! The thoughts I had going in were really close to what I ended up buying. For my bridesmaids, I wanted something that would tie in with my dress so I knew they needed lace. I also wanted something that was affordable for them.

.HHSLQJ &DOP The planning process was simple because I tried not to stress over the little details. I went into planning it with the thought that as long as all the major things were covered, the little things didn’t matter so much.

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YHQGRUV CEREMONY AND RECEPTION:

FLYING V RANCH, DECATUR, TX GOWN:

MORI LEE CATERER:

PULIDOS MEXICAN FOOD PHOTOGRAPHER:

MACIE JOY PHOTOGRAPHY FLORAL DESIGNER:

SARA JANE OF BRIDGEPORT, TX

Definitely do NOT sweat the small stuff. Something will probably not go according to plan and you just have to roll with it.

LEISHA’S BAKERY

- Amanda Mathers Williams, Bride

GREG MATHERS AND MIKEY TERRY

CAKE:

OF DECATUR, TX

RECEPTION MUSIC:

OF MAYPEARL, TX

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

WEDDING

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Dana Zajicek and Jason Karamatic held their ceremony and reception on Saturday, March 22, 2014. My initial meeting with Dana and her mother was very informative. Dana had a specific view for her ceremony and reception. Her color selections were whites, silvers, and mint. She knew she wanted a romantic and pretty look to the wedding.

ceremony altar area. The focal point was a vintage gazebo on the grounds of Loma Linda. We draped the gazebo in white chiffon and hung a vintage white candelabrum from the center. Each side of the altar had large circular florals balanced on each side of the two front columns. We used the same color and flower combination of whites and soft pale blush.

Just like most modern brides, Dana works very long hours and had limited time during the day for planning. We started the process with the design and concept of her event. I thought her color selections were perfect for an early spring wedding.

Dana and Jason selected a traditional dinner of salad, mashed potatoes, green beans and chicken. The reception continued the romantic elegance with soft silver linens on the guest tables and a combination of three types of centerpieces. The tall centerpieces contained Manzanita branches and white hydrangeas. The two low centerpieces were floral arrangements in glass containers and a set of three glass containers that contained floating candles.

Dana’s gown, from the Bridal Boutique of Lewisville, was ball gown style with several layers of tulle. Dana had several handmade details to her wedding, but one of the most special details was her veil, made by her mother. It was simply stunning together with her gown. Courtney Keen-Flores of FRESH and I designed a bridal bouquet of white hydrangea, white roses, white stock and very pale blush roses. To bring in the grey we also included dusty miller. The bridesmaids’ gowns were strapless, long and platinum grey. We used all white blooms and accented with a soft pale pink. The groom and groomsmen selected platinum grey suits with mint ties. We continued the romantic and soft look for the

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

One of Dana and Jason’s huge priorities was for their guests and wedding party to have a fun night of dancing during the reception. Along with the dancing, guests were also treated to a Fun Booth provided by Brent Hughes Photography. I have such fond memories of planning and coordinating with Dana. She was a delight to work with.

- Teresa Choate, Wedding Planner

7+(

YHQGRUV CEREMONY & RECEPTION:

LOMA LINDA EVENTS WEDDING PLANNER:

TERESA CHOATE FLORAL DESIGNER:

FRESH PHOTOGRAPHER:

BRENT HUGHES PHOTOGRAPHY CAKES:

CHARLESA SIMS

WITH NEW CREATIONS CAKES GOWN:

BRIDAL BOUTIQUE OF LEWISVILLE CATERING:

MY SISTER’S AFFAIR RECEPTION MUSIC:

CAROLYN KIRBY WITH YOUR DJ

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

WEDDING

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/LIW RI /RYH On February 10, 2013, Chris and I were waiting for the elevator after Sunday School at First Baptist Church Dallas. Chris was visiting the church for the first time. After the third full elevator, I held out my hand and introduced myself. I asked him if he was a member of the class, and he told me it was his first time visiting. We then talked more and by the time we got on the next open elevator and off, I had added him to the Sunday School Facebook page. Chris then messaged me an hour later and we began talking more. On February 22, he asked me to be his girlfriend and on June 22, 2013 he proposed at our church by the new fountain. We celebrated with family afterwards.

'HWDLOV Red, white and black were our colors. I wanted black bridesmaid and house party dresses with all flowers being red roses. The groomsmen wore red ties and black vests with tuxes. Chris wore a red tie and red vest with his tux.

(FOHFWLF 7RXFKHV My parents, Glenda and Kelly Emery, designed the photo booth using an app called Incredibooth. We had a Candy Table, Picture Table, Good Wishes

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

Table for the Bride and Groom, Game Table, and Bubble Table. Each table centerpiece at the reception was designed by Chris and I to reflect our personalities and interests. For example, we had Travel, Work, Superhero, Childhood and Music among others. We had 24 themed tables in all. Pinterest was also a great resource. While searching Pinterest, I got the idea to have superhero pictures with the groomsmen wearing all different superhero shirts, since my husband loves superheroes. Another unique touch was our presentation of rings. I am an elementary music teacher and directed a Stomp Team at my school. After seeing them perform, Chris was inspired to create a Ring Stomp Dance for presentation of rings during the ceremony. It was a fun addition to our wedding!

7LS Leave plenty of time for planning and be open to new ideas. Set up a wedding website providing information for out-of-town guests, like links with maps to the different locations. Before you visit with your vendors, have in mind how many guests will be attending and be ready to share your ideas with them.

- Robin O’Bier Bennett, Bride

7+(

YHQGRUV CEREMONY:

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH DALLAS IN TRUETT CHAPEL RECEPTION:

HOLIDAY INN DALLAS CENTRAL PARK CITIES CATERER:

HOLIDAY INN PHOTOGRAPHER:

ADAM DAGLEY PHOTOGRAPHY FLORAL:

KATHY HOLLINGSWORTH OF DALLAS CAKE:

TANGO BAKERY OF GARLAND

THE LOVIN OVEN OF LANCASTER

RECEPTION MUSIC:

CHRIS RODRIGUEZ

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

WEDDING

» Announcing Allison Kemp to John Shannon COURTSHIP & ENGAGEMENT

John and I met at College Street Pub in Waxahachie on Mardi Gras. It was a chance meeting, but I soon learned that one of his friends had been wanting to set us up. The funny thing is, I think he was on a date that night. The night of the engagement, John told me his boss was having a dinner party and that we were meeting up with friends beforehand at a park on Lake Waxahachie. When we got there, he was acting strange and nervous, but I was still oblivious. At one time we had talked about writing our own vows if we got married, so he said he wanted to read me what he’d been working on. He said he “never wanted to spend a day without me in his life” and pulled out a beautiful ring made even more special with diamonds from both his grandmother and mine. He then insisted we go to the pub and have a drink so we could spend some time together alone, but then, when we walked in, I was surprised by a party with our closest friends and family. It was a very special night.

THE DETAILS

The colors are navy, peach and gray. The wedding is at First United Methodist Church in Waxahachie and the reception venue is the Chautauqua, so I’m looking at dresses that will fit that location. With the help of my sisters and mother, we have searched through (what feels like) almost all of the bridal boutiques in Dallas. The dress that I’m going to pick is not exactly what I originally imagined, but it does fit the vintage feel of the venue.

UNIQUE WEDDING PARTY

My sisters are my bridesmaids and my mother is my Matron of Honor. I don’t think it’s very common to have the mother of the bride take the Matron of Honor role, but I can’t think of anyone I would rather have up there with me on the day of my wedding.

TIP I didn’t think I’d want a wedding planner, but getting a “day of” coordinator has been the best decision so far. She knows more than I could ever know about vendors, scheduling, organizing, specifics, etc. She is available to answer all questions and give advice. I can’t imagine not having her! -

Allison MARCH 14, 2015 THE WAXAHACHIE CHAUTAUQUA WAXAHACHIE, TX

Izamar Loredo to Patrick Keane COURTSHIP & ENGAGEMENT

Patrick and I first met the nerdy way in high school… we were both assigned to sell candy together during lunch for the National Honor Society. I was definitely in my awkward, mouthful of braces stage and he was the typical cute older soccer player with swoopy hair and pretty eyes. Naturally, absolutely nothing but polite conversations happened since I was too shy to talk very much. We graduated and he went off to Texas A&M and I went off to The University of Texas. We kept up with each other on Facebook, where he enjoyed teasing me about the Longhorns. One summer when we were both back home from school we decided to hang out as friends, and the rest is history! He proposed April 19, 2014.

DETAILS

My Mexican heritage is very important to me and I want to bring that into my ceremony and reception! My vision is a very traditional Mexican wedding with typical décor and authentic food from the part of Mexico my parents are from. We will be having a Mariachi for dinnertime entertainment and a DJ that will play a blend of English and Spanish music for dancing. For

»

the toast we’re planning to offer a choice of a glass of Champagne or a shot of tequila, and beer and wine for the rest of the night. I want my guests to enjoy the traditions that are so important to me and I‘m so excited that I’ll get to share my culture and happiness with all of them.

BEST MOMENT

The best moment of the process so far was the amazing engagement that Patrick planned. He proposed to me during a Green River Ordinance concert at the House of Blues in Dallas. Right before they played our song “Dancing Shoes” (which will also be our first dance song) they called Patrick on stage. 1,000+ people were cheering us on as he proposed and it made everything even more surreal! It turns out Patrick had been planning that moment with the band since January. Afterward he brought me to Red Oak where our friends and family were waiting to celebrate with us. His thoughtfulness and attention to the small details made it the most unforgettable moment of my life!

-

Izamar OCTOBER 24, 2015 LOMA LINDA EVENTS ROCKETT, TX

I think our wedding is unique because it’s not only the blending of two families, but of two cultures.

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6R \RX¡UH HQJDJHG 1RZ ZKDW" <RX WKRXJKW \RX FRXOG HQMR\ WKH HQJDJH PHQW EXW QRZ HYHU\RQH LV DVNLQJ ´:KHQ DUH \RX JHWWLQJ PDUULHG"Âľ ´:KHUH DUH \RX JHWWLQJ PDUULHG"Âľ ´:KDW DUH \RXU FRORUV"Âľ ,V LW DOO PXFK PRUH RYHUZKHOPLQJ WKDQ \RX LPDJ LQHG" Starting the planning process is time-consuming and can be intimidating. Imagine the wedding planning process as a major project with timelines, budgets and management responsibilities. If you break down the planning into smaller pieces, it is much easier to manage. First and foremost, it is important to hire a professional wedding planner and coordinator. Set up a meeting and see how the planner can assist you and save you time and money. You should have several options of how much assistance the planner can offer to you. Many brides worry about giving up opinions, styles and being an active participant in the process. This is where hiring the planner that understands your desires and expectations comes in. Many planners offer “The Day-of Serviceâ€?, which actually starts prior to the wedding date and can very beneficial to the entire process. The next step is to decide on a budget. Have open conversations with each other and with your parents if they are assisting with costs. After the budget, the next step is the guest list. This will determine the size or capacity of the church and/or venue required. Once the venue or venues have been selected and booked, the dress comes next. I have a few brides that have purchased their gowns first and then ended up purchasing another gown because of the venue. Once the bride’s gown has been selected, the groom’s attire and wedding party’s attire should be selected. The next vendors and selections happen concurrently. Interviewing and selecting your floral/event designer, photographer, videographer, caterer, baker, invitations and band or DJ can be overwhelming with so many decisions to make. This, again, is where your planner can be of great assistance. They should have referrals that can match your style and budget. Once you have made decisions, continue moving forward. Don’t second-guess yourself. With all the media and design options it is easy to want to make changes every time you see something new on Pinterest or Facebook. Have faith in your decisions and selections and keep the process going.

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1 YEAR BEFORE:

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Beginning an exercise routine can be difficult. Kicking it off this far in advance will ensure that you have a little leeway for adjustment.

the wedding. Alcohol bloats and carries more calories than most of us even suspect. Save it for special occasions and drink it in moderation.

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(just a trim, don’t get a drastic new cut) and retouch your hair color.

prise zit on the big day will require knowing how to take care of your skin appropriately. A dermatologist can recommend the right care for your skin type.

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2 MONTHS:

can have many adverse effects on the body, including weight gain, tooth enamel loss and dehydration- the last things you need when trying to look your best.

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hydrated works wonders for your skin and body. Take this as an opportunity to buy that cute water bottle you’ve been eyeing and keep it filled at all times.

6 MONTHS BEFORE:

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your hair a little extra TLC by using a good quality deep conditioner at least once a month.

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Begin a healthy skin regime now to ensure

Decide on hair and make up for your trial run. Wear a white blouse and bring jewelry and whatever head piece/veil you are using to simulate what you will actually look like on the big day. Remember to make sure your makeup is WATERPROOF!

1 MONTH:

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This also means limiting or cutting down your intake of dark liquids such as red wine or soda.

(DW PRUH IUXLWV DQG YHJJLHV DQG NHHS GULQNLQJ WKDW ZDWHU It’s time to eat like your mom always wanted you to. Eating all your servings of fruit and veggies daily and drinking six to eight glasses of water of day will help your skin glow!

This is just a rough overview of the planning process, so as always, if you have any questions feel free to call, email, text or Facebook me.

2 WEEKS:

Happy planning,

your alcohol intake until

TERESA CHOATE, THE BRIDE’S REP 972.935.3478 | TERESACHOATE@AOL.COM

BY IZAMAR LOREDO

having the clearest face possible on the big day. Beginning now also allows you to experiment with different kids of facials to find the one that works for you. Salons get busy fast, so if there’s a hairstylist or makeup artist you just have to have, make your appointments as early as possible. Book your trial run and day-of services together to ensure that both days will be when you want them.

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1 WEEK: Get your eyebrows done one more time. If you’ve been getting regular facials up until this point, get one last, very gentle facial. Getting one if you haven’t gotten one before isn’t recommended just in case your skin doesn’t react well to it. Start a strict diet of very low-sodium or zero sodium foods and nox dairy to reduce bloating. Go to sleep one hour earlier than usual every day: A maximum and healthy amount of sleep is needed to maintain beautiful skin and to ward off pesky under eye circles.

1 DAY

7LPH IRU D PDQL SHGL Doing this right before the big day will ensure your best nails.

5HOD[ Take a luxurious bath and use a good body scrub to give your skin a last minute boost. Try using LUSH’s Ocean Salt for maximum silky skin.

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get 8 to 10 hours of sleep tonight‌ you’ll need it in the morning!

LUSH’s Ocean Salt LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

LIFE & STYLE

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(ORFQ@>HB SERVES 8

Ingredients Âť 1 cup of self-rising flour Âť 1/2 cup brown sugar Âť 1/2 cup butter Âť 1 cup of varied mixed dried fruit Âť 8 tablespoons of milk Âť 2 eggs Instructions Rub butter into the flour until it looks like breadcrumbs. Add sugar, dried fruit, egg and milk. Mix well. Pour into loaf tin and sprinkle the brown sugar on top, giving it a nice top layer of sugar. Preheat oven to 350 degrees and bake for 1 hour to 1 hour and 20 minutes.

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Ingredients Âť 1 cup of butter Âť 1 cup of almonds (no skin) Âť 1/2 cup of powdered sugar (for the dough) Âť 1 1/4 cup of wheat flour Âť 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract Âť 1/4 teaspoon of salt Âť 1/2 cup powdered sugar (to roll them in afterward)

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

Instructions In a large pan at low heat, toast the almonds, moving them frequently to avoid burning. After 5 or 10 minutes they should be lightly toasted, so lay them out on a plate individually for cooling. Next, pour the flour in the pan (carefully!) and stir constantly until slightly golden. Set aside in a cup. Mix 1/2 cup sugar and the almonds and place into food processor until the almonds are well crushed, but not into a paste. Place the butter in a large bowl and mix until creamy. Add the flour, salt, vanilla, crushed almonds and sugar mixture and mix until it’s all a homogeneous mixture. Refrigerate for 3 hours. Preheat oven to 400 degrees and form small, 1-inch balls with the refrigerated batter and place on cookie sheet, flattening them a little. Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden. Wait a couple of minutes and place one by one in the powdered sugar cup, making sure they are completely covered. Leave them out to cool for a couple of hours then cover them in powdered sugar again.

Z PHILIPPINES:

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Ingredients Âť 1 loaf tin Âť 1 baking pan Âť 1 strainer FOR THE CARAMEL:

Âť 1 cup of granulated white sugar Âť 1 cup water FOR THE CUSTARD:

 1 pint of milk  12 egg yolks  1 can (14 oz.) of condensed milk  1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract Instructions To make the caramel, mix sugar and water in a saucepan. Caramelize it using high heat then pour into a loaf tin using a strainer, covering all sides with the caramel. For the custard, blend the rest of the ingredients in a blender then pour into the loaf tin. Cover and place the tin in a larger baking pan half-filled with water. Pre-heat oven at 375 degrees and place pans inside. Bake for an hour or until it’s firm. To serve, place a serving plate on top of the loaf tin and invert! Make sure the caramel sauce is well poured over the custard.

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

LIFE & STYLE

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SARA AND ROCKY PHOTOGRAPHY

BY MORGAN MCCRORY

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&/$66,& :('',1* There might be several reasons why a song is considered a classic. It could be the artist became an icon, that the words spanned further than its own generation, or maybe that a song never seems to lose its quality. Either way, the tracks and artists that make up this playlist struck something deep within our souls and never left. There’s a reason why names like Etta James, Elvis Presley and Frank Sinatra still grace our lips, even after their death. Their songs overflow with passion, and when you sway to the beat, you won’t be able to keep your own passion at bay. It doesn’t matter if these songs have been played at a thousand weddings. Each dance is special and soon, your love story will be as classic as the song itself.

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Eclectic, as the name suggests, draws from several sources. You have modern day crooners like Bublé, pop punk bands like the Plain White T’s, and even boy bands who charmed the girls of the ‘90s. What all of these artists have in common is their ability to say “I love you” in a unique and colorful way. Some of the tracks are perfect for slow dancing your way into the rest of your life together, while others are an upbeat invitation for the rest of the crowd to join in on the love. There are even a couple of tracks that can turn your love story into a Hollywood scene. “I’ll Be” and “I’m a Believer” have both set the tone for a big screen moment that turned into happily ever after. The beauty of this playlist is that each song can create a once in a lifetime moment you’ll want to replay over and over with a soundtrack you’ll never forget.

The artists on the Boho playlist turn a love song into an art form. Their way with words is unmatched, and several of the songs will stay with you long after the music ends. You’ll find yourself thinking about the lyrics, dissecting the meaning, and applying them to your own relationship. Even though these tracks have a similar message behind their words, the music and tone the artists bring to the song vary greatly. With She & Him, Zooey Deschanel brings a whimsical quality like only she could do. On “Into My Arms,” Nick Cave’s voice fills the room, wraps you up like a warm hug, and never lets go. The way Jason Mraz’s and Colbie Caillat’s voices intertwine make it seem as if they’re lovers themselves. These songs will stay with you, just like the joy of falling in love with your best friend.

Country is made for weddings. A good percentage of the genre is made up of love songs, and you don’t have to be born on a back road to appreciate the words pulsing through the beat. These eight songs are just a glimpse into what the genre holds, but they will make you fall in love with the endless possibilities. You have old classics, up-and-coming stars, and even a few tracks that may have been overlooked. Some of the songs are wedding vows set to music; others capture the moment in time when you finally thought, “This person is the one.” No matter the song, the conviction each of these singers brings to their respective track will make you believe every word they say. As you’re spinning around the dance floor every eye will be on you, and yet, it’ll feel like you’re the only two people in the room. As Jennifer Nettles puts it, “There are so many love songs… but this one’s for you”.

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LIFE & STYLE

Hyatt Lost Pines Resort

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Ready for a weekend getaway that involves packing without restrictions and no airport parking fees? Grab your bag and tunes selections and get on Interstate Highway 35 heading south towards Waco. It’s time for a fun adventure to Bastrop, Texas and the surrounding area. We left on a Friday morning around 9:30 a.m. last Labor Day weekend, heading south until we were north of Temple, where we exited onto Highway 95 and continued south to Taylor, Texas. There we parked and began to smell delicious smoky aromas before we even entered the swinging door of Louie Mueller BBQ, one of the top rated BBQ restaurants in Texas. The perpetual line wasn’t too bad, and while waiting we could watch the pit crew hard at work in the unairconditioned building. Yes, you read that correctly– no air. There were lots of huge fans, but when it’s 90 plus degrees outside, that is not much relief. After we sat down with our chopped beef brisket sandwiches, sides of potato salad and jalapeno sausages and cold iced teas in the screened porch annex, the thought of the heat became secondary as we focused on the delicious food. After lunch we got back in the car, grateful for the cold air, and continued south to check in to our hotel for the weekend, the Hyatt Lost Pines Resort located in Lost Pines, Texas, on the Lower Colorado River right outside of Bastrop. Our lovely room looked out onto beautifully landscaped gardens of the resort, which adjoins 1100 acres of the McKinney Roughs Nature

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

Park. At the resort you can enjoy swimming and floating on the lazy river, tennis, golf, canoeing, fishing, horseback riding, hiking and bike riding. There is also a small herd of Longhorns, horses, llamas and other farm animals. We spent the rest of the afternoon poking around the cute art galleries, shops and antique stores in the historic district near the courthouse in downtown Bastrop. Afterward we headed back to the hotel for cocktails and relaxing in one of the great bars, followed by dinner at Stories restaurant, which uses many Texas-sourced ingredients in their menu offerings and also has a nice selection of Texas wines and beers. The next day we headed out for a day trip to Roundtop, meandering through Smithville and LaGrange along the way. We stopped at interesting places that caught our eye, and ended up in Roundtop in time for lunch. Here, lunch means getting on the list at Royers Roundtop Café, and then passing the time enjoying the fun and eclectic stores and galleries until your time to dine arrives. The funky café has 10 tables for enthusiastic diners and serves great burgers, fresh salads and homemade fries. But the thing that keeps people coming back is the pie – 12 kinds of yummy, gooey, fruity pies. The hardest thing is choosing which one to get– my favorite was a draw between the butterscotch chip and the peach. Luckily, whole pies can be purchased to take with you, so here is where a cooler would come in handy! The rest of the afternoon we spent leisurely browsing the rest of the

shops, a striking contrast to the crowd during the antiques fairs held in the area twice yearly. We took a different route back to Bastrop, traveling through Giddings and then down Texas Highway 21 through the burned remains of Bastrop State Park. It is a sad sight, but you can already see nature’s efforts at recovering as new growth begins to appear through the ashes. As you turn to head back to the hotel, take advantage of the huge Buc-ee’s travel center to gas up and look around (gawk, really) at the biggest convenience store you will ever see. Dinner was at the cozy restaurant at Lost Pines, Major Neighbors. Situated on the golf course, it is named after a noted Indian Agent who helped promote peace among settlers and Native Americans during the 1800s. The Texas Watermelon Gazpacho made with house-made jalapeno tomato broth is one of the best I’ve ever eaten. We enjoyed our seats at the bar where we could watch the Longhorns play football while dining. The evening walks around the resort and along the river were lovely, with birds and occasional deer. The hiking trails would be a lot of fun, just not at Labor Day in searing heat. This would be a perfect destination in the spring or fall- a great getaway less than three hours away, no airports involved!

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serves great burgers, fresh salads and homemade fries. But the thing that keeps people coming back is the pie! The Royers ship thousands of their pies to every state in the country through their mail order web site.

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

LIFE & STYLE ^ A MOTHER’S TALE `

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YEARS BY LINDSAY MARKERT

TEN YEARS AGO THIS MONTH, TWO YOUNG LOVEBIRDS GAZED AT EACH OTHER IN FRONT OF FRIENDS AND FAMILY AND SAID “I DO�. THAT SUNSHINE-FILLED SEPTEMBER DAY WAS THE BEGINNING OF OUR JOURNEY. WE HAVE EXPERIENCED THE GOOD, THE BAD, THE SCARY AND THE SAD. In honor of our ten years of (mostly) wedded bliss, here are ten things I have learned about marriage. Some are serious, some are silly and some may not apply to your marriage (or marriage to be!) now, but could later. No marriage is created equal—nor is any marriage perfect—so I am certain that there are many more lessons to be listed.

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And sometimes, people communicate differently. Once you get on the same page about what is expected and desired, executing that communication is paramount. Little bits of miscommunication can cause bouts of dissension. Daily communication about the mundane things in life really matters too, and helps keep the connection open.

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But it’s also really beneficial to have a common bond outside of the fact that you share a roof. Even if it’s just trying something new together, that connection provides new conversations and memories that can be a springboard for a whole new side of your relationship.

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There is something so concrete and romantic

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

about committing to share a life together and then planning that life, picking and choosing the most appealing things to accomplish as a team. For us, those dreams include a nice plot of land in the countryside and an RV to fix up to show our kids the country.

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We’ve only lived in two houses as a married couple and neither have had a “water closet� type bathroom. This is a deep grievance of my husband. He currently locks every door possible to have privacy, and I think his next move will be to barricade the doors with furniture. The saying “Happy Wife Happy Life� is applicable in lots of situations throughout marriage, but my husband’s happiness is found in bathroom privacy. Bless his heart, it doesn’t happen often!

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Especially after kids, you need time to reconnect and remember why you were drawn to each other in the first place without the distractions of work, kids and social media. Sometimes securing a sitter for four kids six and under is tough, so when we recently discovered some shows we both like on Netflix, we began to make a habit of having an in-home date night at least once a week. It’s so easy to fill your time with other things that are demanding your attention, but blocking time off for your spouse only is very healthy.

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A good friend who has also been married for several years reminded me of this recently. Occasionally ask yourself if you are being an encouraging, supportive, loving spouse that puts your better half’s needs before your own. Are they doing the same for you? It may not always be balanced between the two of you.

Sometimes one person will need a bit more encouraging and support than the other.

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There is nothing sweeter and selfless than my husband showing me grace by quietly doing the dishes or starting some laundry (after his own day of work) that I wasn’t able to complete during the madness of my day with a legion of little people. The willingness to pick up your partner’s slack from time to time is an integral part of teamwork.

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Seems so easy, but marriage isn’t always fun or funny. Marriage is work and you will want to walk right out the door at some point, guaranteed. All the laughs and good times go a long way in making you feel strongly connected.

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This is a tough one. Knowing when to let something go is a valuable tool. As individuals, we tend to have a need to be right that can sometimes poison our relationships. Taking a moment to evaluate the worthiness of this need in a given situation can save some precious time and open the door to better communication.

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Opening doors, planning a night out, a note tucked away to be found later—these kinds of things go a long way. As a marriage gains weeks, months and days, it can become commonplace to let the stresses of the day take over and forget how easy it is to be romantic.

LOVE BIG. SHOW GRACE. BE PATIENT. CHOOSE WORDS WISELY. HOLD HANDS. MAKE PLANS. Here’s to happy marriages and many more decades of lessons!

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

LIFE & STYLE ^ GUY TALK `

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2,920 DAYS BY JUDD MCCUTCHEN

“WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED IN YOUR EIGHT YEARS OF MARRIAGE?”

I WAS RECENTLY ASKED THIS QUESTION BY A FRIEND OF MINE WHO IS ENGAGED. MY INITIAL RESPONSE WAS A SLIGHT SMIRK… THE KIND OF SMIRK THAT HAS A LITTLE BIT OF A SMILE MIXED IN WITH IT. IT WAS A GOOD QUESTION. A SIMPLE QUESTION. BUT IT DID MAKE ME PONDER. THERE ARE A MILLION DIFFERENT RESPONSES I COULD GIVE. I REFLECTED, AND NARROWED MY ANSWER DOWN TO THREE THINGS.

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He is our pastor. For weeks leading up to our wedding day my wife and I sought his counsel for premarital advice. In one of the sessions about halfway through the process, we took personality tests. Normally, I take very little stock in these. I think they are silly. The results however, were eye opening. Heather and I were complete and polar opposites. We went line for line down this paper, and on almost every point we were at extreme opposite ends of the spectrum. I was outgoing, she was more of a homebody. I was cheap, she liked to shop. I love sports, she can’t stand sweat. There were dozens more just like this. David jokingly said that he almost didn’t want to marry us. But he did give us a serious warning. “This will cause you problems in your marriage.” And it did. It took us a good three to four years before we worked through this. With a little compromise from both sides it has worked out much better. HEED THE ADVICE OF PEOPLE THAT HAVE BEEN THERE, AND TAKE THEIR SUGGESTIONS TO HEART.

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

#CQBO CFSB />OOF>DBP IFHB >KV VB>OP LC OBI>QFLKPEFM Q>HB QFJB J>OOF>DB 6EB QL ?RFIA $>@EBILOBQQB ALBP Anything that is built has to start with a foundation. That is the core that keeps all things stable. Without NR>IFCV >P it, you are on shaky ground and asking for problems. BAR@>QFLK>I Throughout my marriage, our foundation has changed QBIBSFPFLK a little. As a young couple, we were more about havThe five year mark was the point for me that romance started to slip a little. You start having kids, money is tight and work seems to consume you. About three years ago I made the dreaded mistake of suggesting that we don’t exchange gifts for our anniversary. “Let’s just save some money and have a nice dinner”, I said. For you newlyweds out there, NEVER do that. I showed up to dinner empty handed, and she went ahead and got me something. Not a fun evening! That’s where The Bachelorette comes in. I was watching my wife’s face one night while this show was on. She was smitten by these men trying everything they could to win this girl’s heart. It was romantic, and it reminded me of the way things were when we were dating. These guys were creative, passionate, and would even do embarrassing things to be with her. PROVIDE YOUR WIFE WITH AS MUCH ROMANCE AS SHE NEEDS.

ing fun and doing what we wanted. After a while that faded away and just wasn’t all that fun anymore. Today, we are doing our best to keep God as the core of our relationship, especially since we have a family now. I can say without hesitation that it is a total blessing to know that no matter what happens between my wife and I, there is someone there to catch us when we fall. BUILD YOUR MARRIAGE ON THE ROCK. MARRIAGE IS A PANDORA’S BOX. THERE ARE A TON OF DIFFERENT DIRECTIONS THAT I COULD HAVE GONE WITH, BUT I TRIED TO KEEP IT SIMPLE AND APPLICABLE. ALTHOUGH I DID LEARN ALL OF THIS OVER THE LAST EIGHT YEARS, MY WIFE COULD PROBABLY WRITE YOU A BOOK ON THE HUNDREDS OF THINGS I HAVE YET TO LEARN AND MAY NEVER WILL! HOPEFULLY I WILL HAVE A LONG TIME TO KEEP TRYING.

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

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BY TAYLOR HAMPTON

A-line waist was exactly the cut I liked. We spent the next few months making trips back and forth from the seamstress. On the first trip we took off the flowers and pink trim, stripping it down to plain white. We removed the sleeves, shortened the train by two feet and took fullness out of the skirt to create a more fitted look. Next on the list was to replace the solid back with lace to create an illusion back, but first we had to create a new pattern.

One of the most important wedding quests for brides is finding the perfect dress. Inspiration can be found in stacks of bridal magazines, websites and Pinterest. With so many options available, the mental runway show in your head is overwhelmed with satin, trailing trains and puffy skirts. As a child I gazed at my mother’s bridal portrait hanging in the entryway of my Gram’s home and imagined the day I would join her on the wall. I never dreamed I would be in the same dress! She would joke that I had to wear her dress because it was tradition, but I was intimidated. Her wedding dress had a tiny A-line waist and was reminiscent of Scarlett O’Hara from Gone With the Wind. After my engagement and with a VHS of my mother’s wedding ceremony playing in the background, I found myself slipping into her dress. Cringing as my mother zipped me in like my Gram zipped her in 29 years ago, I slowly exhaled. I could breathe! I knew in that moment I wanted to wear my mother’s dress. A few alterations were in order. I loved the simplicity of the dress and wanted to keep as much of its integrity as possible. The white was timeless and the

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With my mother, two family friends and my grandmother, I went to Dallas to find lace for the back and trim to add sparkle to the hem of the skirt. Choosing a fabric for the dress I would be wearing on the most important day of my life was stressful! The anxiety and pressure clouded my head so we went home empty-handed. That night we refined our vision and found the perfect lace and trim the next morning. We selected a jewel trim to trace the waistline, beaded trim for the hem of the dress and found a jewel piece for the front of the dress. On the second trip to the seamstress, she began to cut the lace. This was more difficult than anticipated because the zipper had to be moved and the lace was adorned with beading that needed to be removed. I was striving for a 1920’s vintage feel with the gown, so we shaped fabric like playdoh to recreate various looks for the front. The original front panel of the bodice was kept and we layered pleated chiffon across the chest. My mother had Swarovski crystals put on the illusion back and straps to add an elegant shimmer. Redesigning the dress was a process involving many fittings to fine-tune the tailored fit and all the details. My mother and her friends are all seamstresses, so it was a special experience to collaborate with them on how the fabric would react to certain changes and what architecture was best to convert a vision into a functional, tangible gown. When my dress was finished, I spun in front of the mirror in awe. It was my design and creation, but I could see glimmers of my mother ‘s dress in the flow of the skirt. As icing on the cake I was also fortunate enough to have worn my grandmother’s dress to my engagement party, and my other gram’s dress to a couples shower! On August 30th, I married the perfect man in the perfect dress.

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Haley Cherie Settle to Jonathan Peter Owens December 6, 2008 First United Methodist Church, Fort Worth, TX

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Some girls are lucky enough to wear their mother’s wedding dress, but I had something much more special waiting for me: our family heirloom dress, worn by nine women before me, including my mother and grandmother. First worn by my grandmother and her three sisters—the Aylor sisters—in the ‘50s, the upper part of the dress has since undergone two changes—one for each subsequent generation. Despite the evolving style, the beauty of the original dress and its rich history still shine through in the fabric. Many great marriages were started with this dress, and I felt so blessed and honored to be able to wear it as I celebrated the beginning of my own. Thank you to my family for allowing me to share in this special tradition.

With love and appreciation,

Haley

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

LIFE & STYLE ^ '5,1.6 `

SIGNATURE

SIPS ECLECTIC

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COUNTRY

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» Pre-chilled 12-ounce silver julep cup or glass » 1 teaspoon of sugar or 1 tablespoon of simple syrup (sugar and water heated together) » 3 ounces of your favorite Kentucky bourbon » 6 leaves of mint » Crushed Ice » 1 muddler » Sprigs of mint Crush the mint and sugar together in the pre-chilled cup with the muddler. Add bourbon then fill the cup with ice. Stir well. Top with a couple of sprigs of mint.

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» 1 1/2 ounces of chilled silver tequila » 1 teaspoon of grenadine » 3 ounces of orange juice (squeeze your own for best flavor) » Cracked ice (Hit ice cubes with bar spoon to crack) Use a shaker to mix tequila and orange juice with the ice. Fill glass, then slowly pour the grenadine on top and let sink to the bottom for the sunrise effect.

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

1R KDUG OLTXRU" TRY THESE SMOOTH AND LIGHT WINES THAT ARE SURE TO SATISFY YOUR GUESTS:

CLASSIC WEDDING:

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» 1 bowl or pitcher » 1 bottle of red wine of your choice » 1/2 cup of brandy » 1/2 cup of sugar » 1 to 2 shots of triple sec » 1 peach » 1 orange » 1 lemon » 1 apple » 1 cup of cut up strawberries » 1 or 2 cups of tonic water Cut all the fruit into wedges and place in the bowl. Pour in the wine, triple sec, and brandy. Stir and let chill overnight. Before serving add the tonic water, adjusting the amount to taste. Mix and serve!

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QUIVIRA 2011 DRY CREEK VALLEY ZINFANDEL $22

WEDDING:

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» 2 shots of sweet tea vodka » Your choice of lemonade Grab your favorite mason jar, fill with ice, pour in the vodka then the lemonade, and mix.

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GEYSER PEAK SAUVIGNON BLANC $22

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Instead of champagne, try a delicious sparkling wine MUMM NAPA BRUT ROSE, $24

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

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MARKETPLACE THE STUDIO

BRIARPATCH #3

Enjoy the beautiful sound effects of a Music of the Spheres Windchime, “The Windchime for all Seasons” during lazy evenings on the porch with your love. Handcrafted in Austin, these chimes are a perfect gift for weddings, anniversaries and so much more. 3671 N. Hwy. 77 | Waxahachie 972.617.7740

Hallmark carries all of your wedding, anniversary and birthday gift needs! From cards and wrapping to Willow Tree figures or photo books, Hallmark helps make your special day even more memorable. 507 N. Hwy 77, Suite 406 Waxahachie 972.923.1884

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 www.justuffcreations.com

HOUSE OF TEES We have your wedding gifts covered. Wedding favors, gifts for the wedding party, t-shirts and more! 509 George Hopper #B

STUDIO 618 SALON About to tie the knot? Let us take care of your wedding 'do. We are an affordable full service family salon! We offer haircuts and styles for men, women and kids, formal styles and updos, color services, highlights, lowlights and ombre, Keratin smoothing treatments, perms, and facial waxing. 618 E. Main St. Midlothian 972.723.1997 studio618salon.com

Midlothian 972.723.9820

HouseofTeesOnline.com

THE DOVES NEST Pick up a copy of our awardwinning cookbook, “The Doves Nest Restaurant: New American Recipes From A Historic Texas Town,” in its fifth printing. 105 Jefferson | Waxahachie 972.938.DOVE (3683) www.thedovesnestrestauant.com

CHECK IT OUT Add style to your first home or update your current home! We can add that needed little extra touch. Come check out our large supply of in-stock fabric or order from fabric samples. 212 S. Rogers St. | Waxahachie 972.938.2403 CheckItOutFabrics.net

MERLE NORMAN COSMETICS & BOUTIQUE

ARK COUNTRY STORE

MOSAIC MADNESS

We have customizable DaVinci bracelets that are the perfect gift for the bride or bridesmaids! We also do bridal makeup. Drop by today to see what we can do for you. Like us on Facebook:

Mosaics make wonderful wedding gifts as well as dĂŠcor for the reception, ceremony and much more! 211 S. College St. Waxahachie 972.937.5797 www.mosaicmadness.net info@mosaicmadness.net Find us on Facebook!

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401 N. Hwy 77, Ste 8 Waxahachie 972.937.9696

We have the perfect gift for all the men taking part in your special day! Stop by and see our full selection of unique, handmade knives! 209 S. Hwy 77 Waxahachie 972.937.8860 www.arkcountrystore.com

SOCO DEPOT Need a gift for the newlyweds? We have a large selection of kitchenware, grills and home decor. Swing by today to whip up something unique! 501 S. Rogers Waxahachie (In the historic MKT train depot) 972.351.0086

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

HISTORY

HAUNTED HISTORY:

THE BURLESON

HOUSE

BY KIMBERLY QUINTERO

When we moved into our dream home on Saturday, October 29, 2011, it suddenly became obvious we were surrounded by something mysterious. Doorknobs turned with deliberation,

doors would creak open and slam shut by unseen forces, phantom footsteps were heard distinctly walking up the stairs in the middle of the night and shadowy silhouettes appeared beneath doorways when no one was home. Many of these encounters soon became commonplace and it was no longer unusual to walk dead center into an inexplicable cold spot. In fact, we soon realized that the home was haunted by several ghosts of long-departed inhabitants from its past.

Burleson House History

serving as President of the Rotary Club, President of the Waxahachie School Board, a Woodsman and a deacon of the First Baptist Church. He was also one of the founders and President of the Texas Honey Producer Association, which he nursed from infancy to success. May passed away in 1965. She was born in 1880 and lived to be 85 years old. She died from a stroke which caused her to lapse into a coma for many years. Thelma died on March 20, 1988. At the time of her father’s death, she and her brother took over the company. It is said that she received no funds from his estate after his death. T.E. died on September 14, 1996, only ten days before his 89th birthday. T.W. BURLESON & SON’S PURE HONEY COMPANY EST. 1907

1206 West Main Street in Waxahachie, which the locals refer to as the Burleson House, was the original headquarters of T.W. Burleson & Son’s Pure Honey Company, a family-owned business established in 1907 by Thomas William Burleson. The house was built in 1915 and sits on almost an acre lot. Today, Burleson’s Honey has a reputation for being one of the top ten honey brands in the United States and the oldest and largest honey packer in the Southwest region. The original owners, T.W. Burleson and his wife May Ward, married on September 28, 1900. The couple had two children: daughter Thelma Burleson, who was born on January 13, 1902, and son Thomas Edward (T.E.) Burleson Senior, who was born on September 24, 1907. T.W. Burleson was struck by a car and died on December 12, 1944. It is said that he was crossing the street to visit an ailing neighbor when he was killed. The late T.W. Burleson built a thriving business and was well known by beekeepers throughout the nation. He was very active in the community,

BURLESON HAUNTINGS OLD LADY ON THE SWING The presence of an old gray-haired lady is often felt and seen sitting on the porch swing, (as it deliberately sways back and forth) even though there is absolutely no wind in sight. Some believe she is May Ward Burleson, the original matriarch of the home, while others perceive her as Thelma, the last known Burleson to reside in the house. Several family members in the home have witnessed the physical manifestation of the grayhaired lady on numerous occasions. Ms. Thelma is, by far, the most intriguing ghost wandering about Burleson House. Her ghost appears to be a gentle, old soul who simply enjoys visiting her old home from time to time. My husband saw her once sitting in the living room chair as he passed the entryway to the living room. He described her as a tiny-framed, whitehaired elderly lady seemingly unaware of anything else around her. No matter how often her warm, kind presence is felt, we graciously welcome her visits with enthusiasm and respect. PHANTOM FOOTSTEPS One of the first experiences we encountered in Burleson House was on an afternoon not long after we moved in. I was unpacking boxes stacked throughout the downstairs sitting room, which we refer to as the “window room” because it is encased with massive windows all around. My daughter and I were having a conversation in the kitchen, and as we continued to talk, we exited the kitchen area and entered the dining room through an adjoining doorway that eventually led us to the window room. After a long moment of silence and the realization that I hadn’t heard my daughter’s voice in quite some time, I figured she must be preoccupied texting on her cell phone. I disregarded it and continued chatting as I unpacked, since I had clearly heard her walking directly behind me. Yet, the silence remained. At this point, I figured my daughter was ignoring me altogether. I asked her if she was listening to me, but there was no response. I turned around only to discover there was absolutely no one in the room with me. I was completely shocked and perplexed because I had clearly heard distinct footsteps walking on the hardwood floor and felt the presence of someone standing directly behind me the entire time. As I struggled to make sense of what had just happened, I called out to my daughter to ask where she was. Her response was, “Mom, I’m in my room.” She told me she hadn’t been downstairs since she had left me in the kitchen. I stood there in total disbelief. All I could wonder was: If she wasn’t walking around the room with me, who was?

*

For more information and stories about Burleson House, please feel free to visit the “Ghosts of Burleson House” website at burlesonhouse. com/ghost-­stories.html.

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

BILL HURST PHOTOGRAPHY

HOME & GARDEN

INTERIOR DESIGN

` ANDY GANT VIA FLICKR.COM

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HOME STYLE SETS THE TONE

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LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

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Boho Chic may be a new term in your vocabulary, but it has become quite the topic in design magazines recently. It isn’t difficult to recognize this most recent trend in home dÊcor. It is cluttered, colorful and fun, so if you like a nice sleek, airy space this is probably not going to be your style. When I look at a variety of rooms done in this Bohemian style I find myself thinking that it looks like Canton on steroids. Since I love Canton, it makes me smile. I do have difficulty focusing on any one item, since there are so many in each room. However, it is always interesting to see the wide array of pieces mixed together to finish the space.

BY DIANE JOHNSON COLLARD

and stained finishes. Worn out, old and ragged items are not only accepted in Boho design, but encouraged. It all works. Some Boho rooms get a little too heavy and dark for my personal taste. Bad lighting, dark colors, dreary patterns and too much clutter can make a room feel depressing instead of cozy. One thing is for sure about the Boho style- you will have a great time looking for all of those treasures to complete your space. Sounds like a good excuse to go to a flea market to me!

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Country has been around forever. It just evolves from time to time to include new and different things. We have gone from early American to Country English to French Country to Mountain Lodge Country to Texas Country.

Take a spattering of all things bright, lots of floral patterns and textured accents of any and all kinds, jumble them together in any way you choose and you will create the romantic, fun Boho atmosphere.

Some aspects of country design never really change. Bricks, stones and lots of wood will forever be key elements in good country design. The cozy, comfy feel of massive stone fireplaces and wood beams on cathedral ceilings have been with us for hundreds of years.

Fabrics used can be heavily woven wools, vintage lace or cotton with jumbo flowers. Colors are generally bright with lots of red, turquoise, lime and orange.

Antiques have always been an important part of country design. In many cases we use a variety of beautiful oak pieces, such as tiger oak, from the early 1900’s. These pieces are bulky and blend very well with the weight of stone.

Most furniture pieces are recycled vintage odds and ends in both painted

Pine is currently used in a lot of new furniture made to look old. It weathers well and the

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HOME & GARDEN

BILL HURST PHOTOGRAPHY

imperfections add to the charm. Pine furniture stained in a black walnut finish was very popular in the 70’s and 80’s. Those pieces can be recycled by refinishing the wood in a lighter color or painting them. Furniture for country homes, especially Mountain Lodge Country and Texas Country, can be made from just about anything. Old doors, vintage furniture or iron scraps can become great works of art. Colors are most often neutral and warm. Little spatterings of rusty reds and turquoise add life to otherwise beige, brown and off white rooms. Fabrics include heavily woven blends with lots of texture, blanket patterns, plaids and tweeds. Since leather upholstery is a staple in today’s country home, these fabrics are used for pillows, throws, accent seating and window treatments.

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Classic design is basically traditional styles that feel like they last forever. Some of our new traditional furniture is made to look exactly like the furniture of 50, 75 or even 100 years ago. These true and tested furniture lines are never dated and never seem to go away. Fabric selections can be any form of print. Some are flashy and fun with lots of bright flowers. Some are plaids and stripes. Some are velvet and chenille with lots of tone on tone pattern and texture. Colors are all over the board, but neutrals always make the best backdrop for stacking colors like

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

blues, teals, reds, greens and plums. Most importantly, keep the colors coordinating and flowing nicely. Mixing things up too much makes a classic style look messy. Classic is generally sleek and clean looking with lots of traditional style.

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Eclectic design is probably the most common style in today’s home. We gather things from our family, friends and other resources to fill all of the empty spaces in the house. Fortunately, with our crafty nature, we utilize these things and create a comfortable home filled with things we love. These things are often sentimental and remind us of people we cherish. Antiques can be blended with contemporary. Art Deco can be blended with traditional. Country can be blended with classic and a touch of Boho can be added for good measure. Woods don’t have to match and painted furniture adds lots of interest and color. Fabrics used in an eclectic home can be a blend of plaids, stripes and prints that don’t have to match perfectly. Textures and prints can be all over the board. You can include contemporary prints with more traditional patterns and throw a little fringe in where you can. Often the background color for an eclectic home leans to the gray and taupe tones. It is neutral, but not beige. If you

add a little spark of contemporary you will find that these tones work perfectly. Any other color on the chart works for accents. You can use pastels, bright spring colors or jewel tones, just be careful mixing them together. Sometimes pastels look washed out with brighter colors. If you choose to go with more pastel tones, stick with it. You can throw in a small sampling of a jewel tone here and there if things look too soft. If eclectic is your style, go for it! Have fun doing it. Remember, the rule is that there are no rules at all. UNTIL NEXT TIME,

KDSS\ GHFRUDWLQJ 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.

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

HOME & GARDEN

Âť *DUGHQLQJ BY MELINDA KOCIAN, ELLIS COUNTY MASTER GARDENERS

6HSWHPEHU PLANTING Âť Plant fall-blooming annuals from bedding plants before buds have opened such as marigolds, petunias, asters, dianthus, hollyhocks, snapdragons and mums. Âť Wait until October when the weather is cooler to plant pansies, violas (Johnny JumpUps) and ornamental kale and cabbage. Âť Most spring-and-summerblooming perennials can be planted (like salvias, roses from containers, butterfly weed, phlox, coneflower and lantana). Likewise, coral honeysuckle, crossvine, trumpet vine and wisteria can be planted. Amend the planting bed with compost and replant. Âť Plant trees, shrubs and perennials from containers. Fall planting will allow them to establish roots before hot and dry weather arrives next year. Âť Dig, divide and replant springblooming perennials such as iris, day lilies, coneflowers, bulbs, liriope and Mondo/ monkey grass.

FERTILIZING AND PRUNING Âť Apply an all-nitrogen fertilizer on Bermuda and St. Augustine

lawns or wait until the first week of October after the grass has stopped growing. Âť Use a pre-emergent on lawn grasses to help prevent germination of winter and spring weeds. Âť Continue to deadhead summer-blooming perennials to prolong seasonal color. Âť Root prune trees and shrubs (cutting the roots around the plant with a spade to stimulate new growth) to be transplanted this winter.

GARDEN WATCH Âť Spray roses for blackspot and mildew that can be extremely troublesome in September and October. Âť Check for spider mites on fall tomatoes and newly planted transplants. Treat with a strong stream of water or insecticidal soap. Âť Webworms are prevalent on pecan trees. They start as small webs at the ends of branches. Cut off the ends of those branches as soon as the webs appear. They are difficult to control once established. Tear open large webs to expose worms for the birds.

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LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

2FWREHU PLANTING Âť Plant vines and ground covers from containers. Âť Put in cool-season annuals such as pansies, JohnnyJump-Ups, violas, dianthus, snapdragons, ornamental kale/cabbage and alyssum. Mix in some blood meal with the amended soil. Âť Plant leaks (elephant garlic), garlic from cloves and onions from sets or bulbs in soil enriched with organic matter. Âť Daffodils and other springflowering bulbs such as Dutch iris, grape hyacinth, rain lilies and ranunculus can be put in the ground now. Some varieties of daffodils return each year. Other bulbs should be considered as annuals in our area and new bulbs planted each year. Âť Save seeds from annuals you want to plant next year. Take cuttings from perennials. Âť Seeds from hybrid plants may not produce the same plant. It is best to take cuttings of these plants. Âť Chill tulip and hyacinth bulbs in the bottom of the refrigerator for 60 days before planting in December.

)DOO $VWHU FERTILIZING AND PRUNING  Fertilize lawns the first week of the month if it was not done in September.  Remove annuals that have completed their life cycle. Leave seed pods of those you want to self-seed next year (for example, cleome, larkspur, Dahlberg daisy, four o’clock and cosmos).  Continue to feed tropical plants in containers and hanging baskets with a water-soluble fertilizer.  Lightly prune vigorous shrubs to maintain shape and size.

GARDEN WATCH Âť Watch for signs of brownpatch fungus on St. Augustine lawns. Treat with an appropriate fungicide. Âť To prevent potential insect and disease next year, remove and toss all dead vegetable plants in the garden. Âť Insects can be a problem if the weather stays hot. Look for whiteflies, aphids, spider mites and scale. If treatment is necessary, contact a Master Gardener at your Texas AgriLife Extension Service at 972-825-5175 or a nursery professional.

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

HOME & GARDEN

To Build { NONPROFIT }

a Home

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY OF ELLIS COUNTY

HOME HABITAT IN WAXAHACHIE

BY IZAMAR LOREDO

In 1984, former President Jimmy Carter and his wife Rosalynn took an active interest in a unique organization called Habitat for Humanity, propelling it into the national spotlight. Today, Habitat for Humanity continues its noble work, making the American Dream of owning a home come true for those who need it the most- including some right here in Ellis County. Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County was started in 2001 by a group of 20 residents concerned with providing decent housing to those in need. Habitat for Humanity strives to “promote decent, affordable housing for all and support the global community’s commitment to housing as a basic human right.” “Habitat supports people by helping them build a home and by giving them opportunities to

2nd Annual

Festival of Trees NOVEMBER 21, 22

WAXAHACHIE BIBLE CHURCH The two-day fundraiser will consist of a silent auction and a day full of fun activities for children. NOVEMBER 21: Silent auction of more than 150 items such as Christmas trees, décor, stockings, wreaths, yard art, and much more along with entertainment featuring local talent

NOVEMBER 22: Children’s room filled with fun activities, pictures with Santa, crafts, cookie decorating, and letters to Santa Sponsorships available. If interested, contact Stu Stephenson, stubill@sbcglobal.net

own their own homes,” Secretary Suzy Keane said. “We don’t give them a house, we help them acquire a house they can afford.” In order to qualify, a family must complete an application, which is available online at www.ellishabitat.org. They must be able to show a need, such as presently living in substandard housing or poverty in Ellis County. The family must be able to pay an interest-free mortgage with an affordable monthly payment. This money goes to Habitat for more houses for other families. They must pass various benchmarks such as a credit check and finally, they must be willing to partner with Habitat in their Sweat Equity Program, a vital part of the organization. Sweat Equity consists of 250 hours (350 hours for couples) of volunteer time helping build another family’s home or their own home, doing clerical work or lot maintenance for Habitat. After the hours are completed, the volunteer will then be eligible to have their own home started. Family and friends are welcome to help their loved ones complete their sweat equity hours. Since their founding, Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County has built two houses in Ennis, one house in Midlothian, and seven in Waxahachie. Because of their small size, they don’t have the same manpower as some of the bigger chapters. The chapter is fully volunteer-run, so the building takes place on Saturdays, when the volunteers are off from work. It usually takes the group a year to a year and a half to build a home. However, before any building can take place, Habitat must have $60,000 in funds in the bank. Because Habitat of Ellis County is a fully autonomous organization with its own board of directors, it is completely responsible for its own fundraising. They raise money through different fundraisers throughout the year, their largest being the Festival of Trees, which takes place once

a year in November. This year, they hope to raise $25,000 and feature 150 items at their auction. Monetary donations are also welcome, as are volunteers and their time. Perhaps the most unique quality of this organization is how its beneficiaries have such a large hand in what goes into helping them. “People are not receiving help, they are helping themselves,” Keane said. “It’s a hand up, not a hand out.” By the time the house is finished, the family has seen and worked through the entire process of building. The moment the house is finished is a powerful moment for all involved. “The kids usually run through the house excitedly, checking out their new rooms and the new amount of space they have to move around in,” Keane said. “It’s special to watch because even though they’ve worked on it and seen it all through the process, they’re always very grateful and awed to see the finished product.” Waxahachie has been invaluable in their help to the organization. From donations made by various local businesses to help from the city in facilitating building, Habitat knows it could not help as many families as they have without receiving help themselves. “It’s a community effort to improve living conditions and give a hand up to those in need,” Vice President John Keane said. “Habitat’s work is a way of assisting others in taking a step towards a more empowered life, giving them pride in accomplishment and home ownership. It’s paying it forward.”

RESIDENTIAL SERVICE PROVIDERS

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

MEDICAL

KNOW THE SIGNS SEPTEMBER IS SUICIDE PREVENTION MONTH

DEPRESSION Symptoms of depression include persistent changes in appetite, loss of interest in activities you previously enjoyed, changes in sleep patterns, feelings of sadness, thoughts of death or suicide, feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, worthlessness or guilt, loss of libido, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, irritability, and even body aches. Having one or two of these symptoms does not mean a person is depressed. However, if someone suffers with several of these symptoms, they may be clinically depressed. Although suicidal ideation is a symptom of depression, not everyone who suffers with depression is suicidal. It is important to remember that not everyone with depression has the same symptoms. For example, children often seem angry, experience nightmares, become clingy with parents, become negative, and refuse to go to school. Older adults may exhibit depression with body aches and pains. Men are less likely to talk about feeling depressed and tend to experience depression as fatigue, irritability, and trouble sleeping. Men are more likely than women to self-medicate with alcohol or drugs. Depression is more common in women than men. This is in part due to the hormone changes women go through. Research also suggests psychosocial factors result in a higher incidence of depression in women. Caring for children while working, caring for aging parents, and relationship difficulties have all been cited as factors contributing to

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

depression in women. Situational stressors for both males and females, if not addressed, can lead to clinical depression. Depression can co-exist with other disorders, such as anxiety or substance abuse or dependence. Depression can be related to medical problems such as stroke, cancer, heart disease or diabetes. With stroke victims, for example, changes in the brain can result in depression. Of course, coping with any major illness can cause depression. Medical problems can exacerbate symptoms of depression and conversely, depression can exacerbate medical problems, so it is important for the depression to be treated. A shortage or imbalance of neurotransmitters such as dopamine or serotonin has been linked to depression. If you are suffering with depression, it is important to talk with your MD to rule out physical causes for depression.

THE SIGNS Many people are concerned about selfharm behaviors when a loved one is clinically depressed. It is important that anyone with clinical depression be monitored for thoughts of suicide, especially when they feel helpless, hopeless and worthless. It is important to note that white males age 85 and older have the highest rate of suicide. Women are more likely to attempt suicide, but men tend to be more successful than women because they choose more violent methods. Suicide is most likely to occur when someone who has been clinically depressed starts to feel better. Often when

BY DR. KATHERINE DONALDSON someone is in the depths of depression, they don’t have the energy to act on thoughts of self-harm. Someone who has decided to take their own life may appear less depressed because they feel they have found a way out, which lulls loved ones into thinking they are improving. What signs do you look for when you are worried someone may be having thoughts of suicide? In addition to the symptoms of depression mentioned above, if you see someone giving away their possessions, talking about death, saying their loved ones would be better off without them, or are engaging in behaviors that are self-destructive, take such things seriously. Get help immediately. If you or a loved one experience a persistent depressed mood, help is available through a psychologist or other mental health professional and your physician. If anti-depressants are prescribed, patients, especially children and teens, should be monitored for thoughts of self-harm, which may increase. If therapy and medication do not significantly improve symptoms, hospitalization may be required.

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 // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

MEDICAL

CLEAN EATING:

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GO ORGANIC BY SAM ROBERTS

$ TXLFN GULYH WKURXJK DQ\ PDLQ VWUHHW LQ DQ\ WRZQ LQ $PHULFD ZLOO UHYHDO WKH IULJKWHQLQJ VWDWH RI ZKDW ZH DUH GRLQJ WR RXUVHOYHV $V D UHVLGHQW RI :D[DKDFKLH GULYLQJ GRZQ +LJKZD\ , FRXQWHG PRUH WKDQ GLIIHUHQW IDVW IRRG DOWHUQDWLYHV :H DUH HDWLQJ RXUVHOYHV VLFN. People are getting heavier and diseases such as heart disease and cancers are only becoming more prevalent. Like it or not, much of this is attributable to what we put in our mouth. There are infinite sources recommending a plethora of fad diets and fast solutions, but now more than ever there is a compelling case to get back to basics. Eat less, eat better and move more. Fortunately, we are reaching a point where people want themselves and their families to eat better. A great place to start is with smaller portions, less fat and more organic food. I will preface this article with the fact I am an unabashed advocate of organic food. However, I believe my case is a strong one.

Below I have listed eight reasons for making a place for organic food in your life: 1. The alternatives are scary. The public is subject to genetically modified food. Much of this is untested, particularly over the long term. Research varies but suggests there could be potential health implications with some genetically modified foods. 2. Organic food has been shown to contain more nutrients and higher levels of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. 3. Organic food, unlike its genetically modified alternatives, is not exposed to pesticides, fungicides and chemical fertilizers. The effects of these chemicals have either been shown to be detrimental or are uncertain at best. 4. For children particularly, organic food is safe. Minimizing exposure to preservatives, artificial colorings or flavorings and food pumped full of steroids and hormones at a young age, when children are particularly susceptible, is imperative to encourage growth and long-term health.

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

5. The use of pesticides, fungicides and other chemicals has serious ancillary consequences. Prolonged use has been shown to pollute water supplies and sources, compromising the quality of the drinking water available to many Americans. 6. I am unaware of any research questioning the integrity of organic food. The same cannot be said for much of the genetically modified foods we are subject to. 7. By buying and eating organic food, you are encouraging greater bio-diversity. You are also supporting small, local farmers that look after the land and operate sustainably and in an environmentally friendly way. 8. It tastes great! Once your body adjusts to coping with less sugar in your diet, you will be craving good, natural food in no time. There is no substitute for fresh, nutritious and flavorsome foods. Not for one minute am I suggesting a complete overhaul to your diet, though in some cases it may be worth considering. Rather, consider building in some balance in your diet. Make small changes over time, be patient, try new things and new ways that work for you and your lifestyle. The results and benefits will come. It does work. I have yet to see anyone regret eating better!

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LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

MEDICAL

The Truth About AFIB BY JULIE MARTIN OF BAYLOR WAXAHACHIE Thump, thump. Thump, thump. Thump, thump… Your heartbeat may speed up when you exert yourself or slow down when you’re relaxed, but either way, it is supposed to be a steady, predictable cadence. That is, unless you are one of the 2.7 million Americans that the American Heart Association estimates has atrial fibrillation – or Afib. Afib is the most common heart rhythm disorder and its incidence seems to be on the rise. If all you know about Afib is what’s in the endless loop of 30-second television commercials promoting medications to manage it, you probably don’t know enough to determine if you’re at risk, and if so, what to do about it.

Out of Sync Afib occurs when the top chambers of the heart are not working in concert with the bottom chambers because the electrical activity that regulates the heartbeat is out of sync. This can cause issues with how well blood is pumped throughout the body. While that may sound serious, Afib typically isn’t life threatening in and of itself. However, in certain patients, it can substantially raise the risk of stroke and be a complicating factor in treating patients with heart disease. Although Afib is much more common in older adults, particularly those over age 75, it can strike at any age. “Risk factors for atrial fibrillation include obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, sleep apnea, having other heart or heart valve diseases, and being born with a heart defect,” explains Jay Franklin, MD, FACC, an electrophysiologist on the Baylor Medical Center at Waxahachie medical staff.

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LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

Many people suffering from Afib never experience symptoms. In others though, the condition can lead to diminished quality of life as they have to deal with regular bouts of chest palpitations, dizziness, shortness of breath, feeling lightheaded or like they are about to pass out. “A lot patients, especially male patients, say that they ‘just don’t feel right,’” adds Dr. Franklin. “They may not initially recognize that its due to heart palpitations associated with Afib.”

To Treat or Not to Treat Dr. Franklin says that just because someone is diagnosed with atrial fibrillation doesn’t necessarily mean having to immediately go on medication or undergo a procedure. The critical factors in making the call are how badly Afib is impacting a patient’s quality of life and, more importantly, determining his or her stroke risk. Physicians use a CHA2DS2VASc scorewhich measures specific risk factors– to determine a patient with Afib’s stroke risk. Patients get a point if they have congestive heart failure, high blood pressure, are over age 65 or have diabetes or vascular disease. They get two points if they are 75 or older or have previously had a stroke or transient ischemic attack. “Any two points combined with a diagnosis of atrial fibrillation, and you need to be on a blood thinning medication based on your anticipated risk for stroke,” advises Dr. Franklin. “The more points you have, the higher your risk.” There are a variety of new blood thinning medications on the market designed

to help patients with Afib manage their stroke risk (the ones constantly being advertised). There are also medications that treat Afib itself. However, while these medications may be effective in certain patients, as a whole, they are not as effective at controlling Afib as blood thinners are at controlling stroke risk. “Maintaining rhythm for a large number of patients means that we have to do more than drug therapy,” says Dr. Franklin. This could mean cardioversion, which attempts to ‘shock’ the heart back into a normal rhythm, or catheter ablation, which uses either extreme heat or cold to eliminate heart tissue that could be causing Afib. These procedures have a relatively high success rate, but they carry certain risks, sometimes have to be repeated and are not a substitute for blood thinning medications, which often must be continued. “We’ve gotten a lot better at being able to identify Afib,” says Dr. Franklin, “and we’ve also gotten a lot better at helping patients control it.” 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 Health Care System or Baylor Scott & White Health.

Sudoku is a logic-based number placement puzzle where the objective is to fill the 9x9 grid. Do you have to use arithmetic? No! Nothing has to add up to anything else. Instead, you solve the puzzle with reasoning and logic. Each column, each row and each of the nine 3x3 boxes should contain the digits from 1 to 9, only one time each (that is, exclusively). Find the answers at www.living-magazine.com and click on the Sudoku link. LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

LA FIN

MAGIC IN SAN MIGUEL DE ALLENDE

VIEW FROM THE LUNA ROOFTOP TAPAS BAR ABOVE THE ROSEWOOD HOTEL. PHOTO COURTESY OF ROSEWOOD HOTELS & RESORTS

I had wanted to visit Mexico’s San Miguel de Allende for years after hearing all the love at first sight stories and how many Americans have gone home and packed their bags to return to the affordable paradise permanently. When I read Conde Nast had recently ranked San Miguel as the “world’s best city�, I knew it was time to check it out for myself. Just over a two hour flight from Dallas, we arrived in Leon, where a car was waiting to take us on a 90 minute drive through rolling hills and across the green highlands of central Mexico in the state of Guanajuato. The terrain reminded us of the Texas Hill Country stretch between Lampasas and Fredericksburg. Founded in 1542 and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, San Miguel de Allende sits at an altitude of 6,300 feet in central Mexico’s Sierra Madre Mountains, enjoying mild temperatures and more than 300 days of sunshine a year. As we approached the city, narrow cobblestone streets led us to Casa Bethryn, a breathtaking 6000-square foot home standing behind red and gold stucco walls. I found the home through San Miguel House Rentals (www.san-miguel-house-rentals. com) for a very modest price compared to US standards. Consisting of three separate two-story structures all connected by arched covered walkways and centered around a traditional cobalt-tiled pool, the artwork and furnishings in the home were beautiful. We settled in, making ourselves a margarita and taking in the view of the western mountains on the terrace with its potted olive trees, flowering bougainvillea and soothing fountains.

Just four blocks away, the heart of San Miguel is where much of the city’s action takes place at El Jardin. Locals and expats sat visiting on wrought iron benches beneath manicured laurel trees while vendors sold balloons, ice cream and elotes— roasted ears of corn—from small carts. Next to the garden is the town’s prized parish church, La Parroquia. Inspired by Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, its rosecolored spires stretch high into the sky. As dusk fell on the church and the bells began to toll, we sipped Sangria from a rooftop bar while watching a wedding procession pour out from La Parroquia. We then made our way to dinner inside the massive gray stone walls of the arts school called Instituto Allende. When trumpeter Doc Severinsen retired from The Tonight Show, he moved to San Miguel and discovered guitarist Gil Gutierrez. With three others, they now constitute the San Miguel Five and play there throughout the year. It was a magical evening listening to their combination of AfroLatin, classical, and gypsy jazz as we dined on traditional Mexican fare. We were fortunate to travel with friends who knew a lot of residents because their family had once owned a home in San Miguel. Their connections allowed us an inside look behind the fortress walls and ancient wood doors of several premier estates in the historic centre. Our weekend was full of meeting new friends and shopping the mercados where vendors display fresh produce, colorful pottery and hand-embroidered tablecloths. One of the main draws on the edge of town is Fabrica La Aurora, a unique center of art galleries and eateries housed in a former textile factory. A car isn’t

necessary as most everything is within walking distance and grabbing a taxi is easy and cheap. Late afternoon would find us at the Luna Rooftop Tapas Bar above the upscale Rosewood Hotel, a great place for a cold cerveza with views of the church domes and mansions scattered along the high hillsides. San Miguel also has many wonderful restaurants with chefs from around the world who have found the city full of sophisticated diners. People talk to each other and engage easily. It is a far cry from the border issues and drug violence we read about in Mexico. There are no streetlights or billboards. Walls aren’t topped with broken glass or razor wire and it feels safe to walk around day or night. Most everyone we met hails from Texas and they have had homes there for a number of years, making up ten percent of the city’s population of 80,000. Everything I had heard about the colonial city I found to be true. It’s quaint as well as cosmopolitan, full of artists and writers who have taken root in Mexican culture. Some have said it’s where boomers come to retire and die. I rather think it’s a place many come to live and work, while the retirees come to play. Younger expats in their 30s and 40s run cafÊs, shops, hotels and bars, while employing locals and offering a traditional feeling of a small town in the heart of Mexico. Whatever their reason, it’s because San Miguel de Allende truly is one of the world’s best cities.

Cindy Burch 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.

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014

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