SUMMER 2020 www.living-magazine.com
New Logo, Same Exceptional Service
Terry Wooten 214.949.9285 LOAN ORIGINATOR NMLS 224831 Terry.Wooten@GatewayLoan.com
Tom Ker 972.365.7022 LOAN ORIGINATOR NMLS 356892 Tom.Ker@GatewayLoan.com
Lance Wallace 903.571.9869 LOAN ORIGINATOR NMLS 1146461 Lance.Wallace@GatewayLoan.com
Matt Authier 903.654.0145 LOAN ORIGINATOR NMLS 1527367 Matt.Authier@GatewayLoan.com
Adrian Sanchez 469.628.3868 LOAN ORIGINATOR NMLS 643358 Adrian.Sanchez@GatewayLoan.com
Matt Helms 903.641.9838 LOAN ORIGINATOR NMLS 1696114 Matt.Helms@GatewayLoan.com
Danny Gildea 972.921.5569 LOAN ORIGINATOR NMLS 1903297 Danny.Gildea@GatewayLoan.com
Office: 972.937.2200 1332 W. Hwy 287 Bypass, Suite-1 | Waxahachie, TX 75165 www.gatewayloan.com/waxahachie-tx
Gateway Mortgage Group, A division of Gateway First Bank, NMLS 7233
Contact one of the these City Real Estate Agents today to discuss your next move!
Amelia Valdez 469-658-5506
Shirley Martinez 972-742-5762
Becky Herrera 469-693-5227
Karen Emery 817-917-5035
Jessica Correa 469-556-0024
Marlene Norcross 512-431-4413
We keep current info of all transactions of your city, and use leading edge technology to provide clients with current and accurate property information. We provide free Market Analysis of your home. Janie Hendrix 817-271-0720
Ennis Main Office Red Oak Office Waxahachie Office Corsicana Office 101 NW Main St 100 Plaza Dr, Suite 500 311 Ferris Ave 108 S Beaton St Ennis, TX 75119 Red Oak, TX 75154 Waxahachie, TX 75165 Corsicana, TX 75110
Professional Values • Real Estate Solutions • Your City Real Estate citytxrealestate.com • 972-878-2222
board certified pediatric dentistry for infants, children and teens!
CALL US FOR A FREE CONSULTATION 972-298-8515 WILLIAM A. BROWN, D.D.S. F.A.G.D. General Dentistry 226 N. Cedar Ridge Rd. Duncanville, TX 75116 williamabrowndds@gmail.com
www.WilliamABrownDDS.com
Contents SUMMER 2020 |
volume 16
|
issue 3
16 LIFE + STYLE CAR REVIEW • 12 Spiffing Up for Sundays
HOME + GARDEN MOSAIC MADNESS • 28 The Joy of Mosaics at Home
TRAVEL • 16 The Range Vintage Trailer Resort
REVIVAL LIVING • 32 Making the Most of Your Space
RECIPES • 20 Hello, Pokey O’s
ORGANIZED BY DI • 34 The Art of Organizing
BEAUTY • 22 Fun in the Sun with Your Skin by True Reflection Skin Professionals
FEATURE • 36 A Labor of Love - The Armstrong’s Garden
FASHION • 24 Island Fever
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LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SUMMER 2020
JUNE/JULY TIPS • 40 Planting/Growing Guide for the Season by ECMG
36 MEDICAL EMERALD CITY THERAPIES • 42 Think big. Have heart. Be brave. LA FIN CINDY BURCH • 44 A Season of Support PAID ADVERTISEMENT BRAD NORMAN • 14 A Love of Law Enforcement NICK HESTER • 30 The Key to Your New Home
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YOUR TRUSTED SOURCE FOR ELLIS COUNTY LIFESTYLE, HOME AND COMMUNITY SINCE 2005
PUBLISHER CINDY CAMP publisher@living-magazine.com
PARTNER-STRATEGIST PAULA BAUCUM paula@eclmedia.com
CREATIVE DIRECTOR LINDSEY KEENEY lindsey@living-magazine.com
ART DIRECTOR CARLY PECHAL carly@living-magazine.com
Living
ELLIS COUNTY
MAGAZINE
Cover photo by Jina Armstrong Photography Staff photos by Rebecca Chesney Photo & Film A special thanks to all of our contributing writers. For advertising information, please contact Ellis County Living Magazine at 972.935.0938 or info@living-magazine.com.
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LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SUMMER 2020
Ellis County Living Magazine is published bi-monthly by ECL Media, Inc.© using only environmentally-friendly ink.
We are proud members of the Waxahachie, Ennis, Midlothian and Red Oak Chambers of Commerce.
Copyright 2020, ECL Media, Inc.© All rights reserved. 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 Instagram: @EllisCountyLiving facebook.com/EllisCountyLiving pinterest.com/ECLivingmag twitter.com/ECLiving
MOST QUALIFIED: • DEPLOYED WITH THE U.S. ARMY TO THE PERSIAN GULF SERVING IN DESERT STORM AND DESERT SHIELD
FOR ELLIS COUNTY SHERIFF
• GRADUATE OF THE FBI NATIONAL ACADEMY, TOP TRAINING PROGRAM FOR THE BEST LAW ENFORCEMENT PROFESSIONALS ACROSS THE WORLD
EARLY VOTING:
• SERVED AS CHIEF OF POLICE FOR THE CITIES OF WAXAHACHIE AND PALESTINE
JUNE 29TH – JULY 2ND, JULY 6TH – 10TH
ELECTION DAY: TUESDAY JULY 14TH
“I WOULD BE HONORED TO SERVE A SECOND TERM AS YOUR SHERIFF, TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS SO YOU CAN TAKE CARE OF YOURS.” -CHIEF CHUCK EDGE
• EXPERIENCED SMALL BUSINESS OWNER • GRADUATE OF LEADERSHIP COMMAND COLLEGE – LAW ENFORCEMENT MANAGEMENT INSTITUTE OF TEXAS • GRADUATE OF THE DEA NARCOTICS COMMANDERS LEADERSHIP PROGRAM • BACHELOR DEGREE IN PROFESSIONAL AERONAUTICS, GRADUATING CUM LAUDE • MASTER DEGREE IN PUBLIC AND PRIVATE MANAGEMENT • MORE THAN 7002 HOURS OF RELEVANT LAW ENFORCEMENT EDUCATION AND TRAINING • OVER 32 YEARS OF LAW ENFORCEMENT EXPERIENCE • FIELD COMMANDER WITH THE HARRIS COUNTY ORGANIZED CRIME AND NARCOTICS TASK FORCE
POLITICAL AD PAID FOR BY THE CHUCK EDGE FOR SHERIFF CAMPAIGN, PATRICK TALBOT, TREASURER, 4242 FM 308, MILFORD, TX 76670
Simple Summer FINDS Let’s keep it simple. Kick back and relax this summer with these calm, cool and soothing treasures for yourself or to gift to a friend!
Pillow Cube Pillow cube is ideal for side sleepers, napping and travel. It keeps you cool and comfortable to never stop dreaming!
www.pillowcube.com
Hudson Candle® Take in the scent of seagrass + saltwater from the comfort of your own home. “Sea Coast” by Hudson Candle® is our go-to candle this summer!
www.hudsoncandle.com
Sunday Forever Böhme Böhme is the ultimate in summer chic fashion! Stay stylish and comfy in their effortlessly beautiful pieces. We love these linen joggers and reversible white tank plus denim for summer fun! Check out all of their stunning options in wardrobe on their website.
www.bohme.com
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LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SUMMER 2020
The perfect perfume for summer does exist! “Fancy Coconuts” by Sunday Forever is a complete beachy dream. This gorgeous scent’s notes include: pure toasted coconut, a touch of fig, yellow orchid, vanilla flower, sandalwood, orris root, soft musk and a tiny hint of citris zest for sprakle.
www.sundayforever.com
Spiffing up for Sundays Why cleaning & getting ready included a 2020 Toyota RAV4 BY ALAN GELL, AUTOMOTIVE JOURNALIST Growing up in the Bible Belt several decades ago was a good experience for many of us. Saturdays included spending time with friends, day trips, outings, sports, and having family members around the house instead of being at work or school. It was a break from the work-week. But Saturdays also meant preparing for Sunday morning church services. It was not a chore, but a way of life. Getting family members ready and ‘presentable’ as well as cleaning up the family vehicle was all part of the process. Mothers would prepare and lay-out the dresses, iron & press hair ribbons, and otherwise get things ready for their daughters to go to church on Sunday morning. Dads and sons would make sure their shoes were all shined appropriately. Even babies had their “Sunday-best” outfits cleaned and ready. Bible-belt families prepared for looking their best. We were taught that God wanted our best offerings and our first-fruits, all as a part of our giving back to our Creator as a way of saying “Thank You” for all He had done for us. This was not only given in the form of monetary donations, but in our appearance, attendance, and participation as forms of worship. The presentation of ourselves in attending church services extended to our vehicles. We see videos, advertisements, and photographs of youngsters, teenagers, oldsters joining together to wash their cars – usually on a Saturday. Youngsters were often told it had to be done “if you want your allowance this week.” Teenage girls could always get a teenage boy to spend the afternoon with her by asking for help “washing the car.” Dads and moms usually emphasized that the family should always look clean and neat, be on their best behavior, and dress appropriately, and that included having the family car look clean and neat. This recent period of sheltering at home, maintaining social distancing, and otherwise not interacting in large groups took its toll on church
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LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SUMMER 2020
gatherings as well as our own appearance. Facebook postings laughingly commented on sweat pants or pajamas being the ‘new’ work uniform. Easter Sunday was difficult for a lot of church-going believers in the Bible Belt because it is usually considered the most significant Holy Day on the Christian calendar. There were a few families that actually got dressed-up to watch Sunday morning church services on the TV or livestreaming video. A few mothers posted photos of their little girls in their spring-colored new dresses and hats. But our cars took a beating by not being cleaned up, as was customary. One week during the shut-down and sheltering, a new 2020 Toyota RAV4 was furnished for a testdrive. It was a TRD Off-Road edition and was a wonderful week of driving. The color was called Lunar Rock, which was a weird gray-green color, almost nondescript in appearance. The vehicle certainly didn’t stand out from a crowd of cars that were bright blue, yellow, green, or white. This RAV4 was built and designed for off-road performance for those consumers who wanted a daily drive vehicle that could hit the back-woods, hills & dales, on the weekends. The test-drive RAV4 was powered by a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine matched to a five-speed automatic transmission. It included Torque-Vectoring All-Wheel-Drive with MultiTerrain Select. This was simple to use, consisting of a dial and some buttons in the middle console. The test-drive Toyota RAV4 included TRD OffRoad Weather & Technology Packages that added a heated leather-covered steering wheel, heated & cooled front bucket seats, front & rear parking assist, wireless smart-phone charging, overhead 360-degree view, and curbside cameras. The RAV4 drove easily and comfortably, providing 29.6 miles-per-gallon for the week’s test-drive. The Sunday morning during the test-drive week was chosen by my community church for a shortversion “parking lot” service. The pastor and a
keyboard player utilized microphones that both recorded the short service for a PodCast as well as a short-range FM radio transmission. Cars were lined up in rows on the parking lot and it didn’t take much to notice which vehicles had been cleaned up and which retained all the dirt, grease, & grime accumulated earlier. I was proud of the fact that I had cleaned and wiped down the RAV4, making a major effort to show off the vehicle. I’m not sure I did it so I wouldn’t be judged by the other parishioners, or because of my childhood upbringing to honor and give my best to God. Whatever the ‘real’ reason, that Lunar Rock greenish-gray was polished and the chrome shined. It looked good, as if I really cared about the vehicle’s appearance. Cars, trucks, and cycles have become an extension of who we are. We are easily identified by the vehicle we drive. Showing up at a Sunday morning service in a dirty car for me would be like wearing an old pair of dirty blue jeans. I just have to clean myself up to go to church and ‘self’ includes the car I am driving. I just have to make the car look ‘spiffy’, which is mostly a British adjective meaning attractive, lovely, splendid, very posh, or stylish. Possibly, I fear being judged by others as well.
BOTTOM LINE: The 2020 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road edition is a wonderful car to drive, in spite of the exterior color. Just make sure it is cleaned up and looks good. The test-drive model had an MSRP of $35,190 and with the add-on packages and destination charges, the bottom sticker price was $41,385. Whether the RAV4 is sitting on a Church parking lot at a outdoor Sunday service, in front of a store or restaurant, or in your own driveway, it looks stylish and attractive. It may not be distinctive or flamboyant in appearance, but this Toyota will certainly get the job done, especially if it has been ‘spiffed-up.’
LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SUMMER 2020
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A Love of
law enforcement Brad Norman ready to serve as next sheriff of Ellis County There could soon be a new sheriff in town, so long as the majority of Ellis County voters once again cast their ballot for Brad Norman in July’s runoff election. Brad received 44% of the 21,737 ballots cast in the Republican Primary held March 3. And though he was easily the top vote-getter in the then-three-man race for Ellis County sheriff, Brad just missed the required 50.1% total to avoid a runoff. He and his wife of 32 years, Mandy, are now asking the community to show that same level of support at the ballot box during the upcoming runoff election in July.
“Our family was truly overwhelmed by the support we received from all over this great county of ours,” said Brad of the election results. “The most humbling part of our campaign has been to experience the kindness and support of so many Ellis County residents. We’ve longed called Ellis County home and look forward to continue making our neighbors, friends and supporters proud through service and dedication.” It comes as little surprise to anyone lucky enough to have crossed his path while on the campaign trail that Brad outdrew the incumbent and challenger the first time voters took to the ballot boxes. After all, his list of local endorsements is long and includes names like retired Ellis County sheriff Ray Stewart and the Midlothian Police Officers Association. Brad is a republican candidate through and through, always standing committed to his fiscally conservative and Christian values. He has also pledged to remain active, visible and philanthropic across Ellis County communities — and not just at election time.
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As the next sheriff of Ellis County, Brad will also ensure his office works alongside nearby law enforcement agencies and county departments to provide the “highest quality of service to our citizens and those who visit our great county,” while also improving communication between the office and the community. Brad began his 21-year career as a peace officer for the City of West in 1998. He then joined as the Midlothian Police Department as a patrol officer in 1999, which is the same year he and Mandy made Ellis County home. The two have lived in Midlothian ever since. Brad was eventually recruited by then-sheriff Ray Stewart to head the narcotics unit at the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office in 2001. He was promoted by Stewart to lieutenant in 2007 and then again by newly-elected sheriff Johnny Brown in 2009. By 2015, Brad served the citizens of Ellis County as the chief deputy of the sheriff’s office. “As the chief deputy, I had oversight of the entire sheriff’s office, both on the operational side and the jail side,” Brad explained. “At that time, we had an almost $19 million budget and over 240 employees to manage.
“That experience provided me with an understanding of the complexity of responsibilities within the office. I also understand that policing strategies that are effective in the city don’t necessarily work in county law enforcement. There is also a level of constitutional responsibilities required of the sheriff as they relate to the jail and I am the only candidate certified by TCOLE as a detention officer.”
Brad departed the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office in 2017 to serve as a lieutenant with the Methodist Health System Police Department, overseeing several campuses for the agency. Early voting in the runoff for Ellis County Sheriff begins Monday, June 29 and runs through Friday, July 10. Election Day is July 14 and Brad said he’d be honored to have your vote.
“We have gotten to meet a lot of new people during this campaign, and I truly appreciate all of their support,” Brad said. “We are also thankful for all of the friends and family who have helped us get this far. I’d be honored to serve this great county as its next sheriff.” To learn more about Brad Norman and his campaign, visit NormanforSheriff.com.
BRAD NORMAN Candidate for Ellis County Sheriff
“I look to strengthen and improve many areas of the sheriff’s office, but I believe the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office must reconnect with the communities and be responsive to the needs of the public they serve.” PAID ADVERTISEMENT
LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SUMMER 2020
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THE RANGE VINTAGE TRAILER RESORT OPENS IN THE COUNTRY SIDE OF BRISTOL, TX STORY & POTOS BY SARAH BEAUREGARD, OWNER OF THE RANGE
We’re counting our blessings at The Range Vintage Trailer Resort to be given the opportunity for a follow up article by ECLM. Since the first article last year, so many of you have stopped in to say hi and see what we were up to. Now we’re open and are so excited to be your staycation resort!
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The Range is a unique resort featuring six renovated Airstreams and vintage trailers (more currently under renovation) to rent, 15 open sites available for guests to bring their own Airstream or vintage trailers, and a custom cedar timber barn for events and a farm to table restaurant with bar opening soon. As Airstream owners ourselves, we wanted to build the space that we craved with a focus on nature, a ton of privacy, and the opportunity for community. This land offers something very special and we are incredibly excited to welcome guests to The Range to experience the restoring power of nature. If you live and love the LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SUMMER 2020
Airstream and vintage trailer life, or just want to experience it for a few days, we offer an easy way to enjoy camping and the outdoors with family and friends. The Range has a mission to repurpose and bring back life to old neglected items. This includes part of American history, the vintage camping trailer. We highlight the craftsmanship of these vintage trailers by restoring and renovating them back to their former glory. We also take pride in extending this philosophy to everything we can. You can see this “green” mission immediately pulling up to The Range with the rusted Texas oil piping fence, recycled crushed concrete roads, flat rack containers converted into bridges over the ponds, reclaimed vintage doors on all the structures and of course the renovated vintage trailers that date back to 1953. The list continues on throughout the property and we are always seeking new opportunities to think outside the box.
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Open Sites and Accommodations The Range is the ideal situation for social distancing with only 22 spacious concrete site pads with full hook ups that are distanced 100+ feet apart from each other over the 30-acres. Each site has private parking, custom-made reclaimed wooden tables and benches and surroundings that vary from one site to another. No two sites are alike. Currently, 15 sites are reserved for guests to bring their own Airstreams of any year or vintage trailers that are 25 years or older and meet certain criteria. The Range also currently offers six renovated Airstreams and vintage trailers to stay in as an outdoor hotel, with more being renovated as we speak. The vintage trailers are completely self-contained with their own bathroom, kitchenette, A/C, Nespresso coffee maker with pods, wooden deck, propane fire pit, grill, and a custom-made reclaimed wood outdoor table and benches. Quality linens, pillows, and low-waste toiletries are also provided, along with a list of convenient items.
Amenities Amenities include complimentary high-speed WiFi, hiking trails throughout the 30-acres, three ponds soon to be stocked with fish, babbling creeks with outdoor seating, tree swings, outdoor games, natural playground, dog park, covered patios, and a communal fire pit. Also enjoy On-Site Activities, the Cedar Timber Barn, Hosting of Events (including Weddings & Retreats), the Resaurant + Bar (in process), the Bathhouse + Laundry Facility and The Store at The Range. Due to COVID-19 precautions, The Range’s rental trailers are currently available for three-night, Thursday through Sunday stays only, allowing four days for thorough cleaning between guests. Open sites are available every day with minimum twonight stays on weekends. Social areas including the bathhouse, laundry, and barn may be limited or closed. For more information on The Range Vintage Trailer Resort or to make reservations visit their website www.therangevtr.com or by calling (972) 210-2900. You can find them on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, @therangeresort.
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LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SUMMER 2020
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hello, POKEY O’S STORY BY ASHLEY CIERI PHOTOS BY JG PHOTOGRAPHY
When my husband Scott and I purchased Pokey O’s Ellis County in summer of 2019, we never dreamed how much joy it would bring to us and everyone around us! Thankfully, the previous owners had already created a fabulous reputation for Pokey O’s in our community, but my husband leaving his teaching career to manage Pokey O’s full-time was a huge leap of faith. We firmly believe God opened the door for us to run with this business, and it happened at the perfect time in our lives. In July, we’ll celebrate our one year business anniversary. We’re grateful for how our venture has grown, but even more thankful for how many smiles we’ve brought our community!
Pokey O’s On the Go!
The Best Pokey O
Pokey O’s Ellis County is best known for catering events (can you believe we have served 1,000 people in 30 minutes). We have also been known to park-and-sell around town at various businesses and community parks. You can find where we are at any given time through our website or by following us on our Social Media pages.
A recipe for the BEST ice cream cookie sandwich. 1. Take two soft, fresh, warm (if you can make it happen) homemade cookies. 2. Take one large scoop of your favorite ice cream (we prefer Blue Bell, of course!) and place the scoop on one of the cookies. 3. Place the other cookie on top and add just a tiny bit of pressure to “sandwich” the ice cream really well in between the cookies. 4. Enjoy! If you mess it up, just give us a call. We’ll come running and make everything better!
Get to Know Pokey O’s Pokey O’s is a franchise out of Dallas, Texas, that opened in 2006. Pokey O’s Ellis County is one of six Pokey O’s food trucks in Texas. Our speciality is combining soft, fresh, homemade cookies with Blue Bell ice cream, a Texas favorite! We place a heaping scoop of ice cream between two cookies and give you our biggest seller and the best ice cream sandwich you will ever savor, a Pokey O! When you find us on the truck, you will have some big decisions to make! At most stops, we offer four different cookie flavors and eight different ice cream flavors. A trade secret: You may even ask to have a different cookie on each side of the sandwich! Our customers can enjoy up to 80 different combination possibilities. Our personal favorites include Sea Salt Caramel ice cream sandwiched between Snickerdoodles and a sandwich called a Pokey Oh-My-Gosh, three scoops Homemade Vanilla ice cream sandwiched between two Monsters (giant cookies with peanut butter, M&Ms, chocolate chips, and more!).
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SCOTT & ASHLEY CIERI OWNER’S OF POKEY O’S ELLIS COUNTY Scott taught junior high Social Studies in Waxahachie for 11 years before deciding to leave the classroom to run Pokey O’s Ellis County full-time. They are busy running a circus on the side with their sons Kamden (7) and Graham (2) and daughter Adaline (4). (903) 880-8598 www.pokeyoselliscounty.com @pokeyosellisco
LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SUMMER 2020
LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SUMMER 2020
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FUN IN THE SUN
WITH YOUR
Skin STORY BY NICOLE ALMAGUER PHOTO S BY NICOLE ALMAGUER, STEPHANIE SARA REYNA, KOURTNEY HENNIGAN
Summer time is the funnest time of the year!! We get vacation time, vitamin D from the sun (which stimulates endorphins that just make us happier people) pool time, beach time, family time, cookouts, and more! All those activities are outside, so here what I have to offer you! The number one tip I can give you about summer time (all year really but summer time is the most crucial) is to make sure you are protecting your self against the sun. Sunscreen! At least an spf 30 and no more than spf 50 is necessary. Reapplication is important especially if you’re on vacation and constantly in the sun. The second thing is a lipid builder to build a ticker healthier layer of skin. We offer an oil called Salvation for the solution. While we’re at it, you might be interested in Rebel C. It is a great way to protect and brighten your skin from environmental stress. It also Hydrates, and improves skin texture. We offer Glo-Berry to soften your skin while giving you a glow. It helps with providing antioxidants and nutrients while being very light weight. All of the products are very beneficial for you this summer to keep you hydrated, (the sun drys us out) and most of all protecting you from the exposure to all kinds of hurtful things we’re unaware of! We love summer time so we’re offering you a “Summer Ready” Facial! Available all summer long! This facial Provides you with ultimate lightweight hydration and removal of all clogged pores from the oil and sweat summer heat leaves us with at the same time! Two forms of exfoliation. Extractions. Our ending is with a Hyaluronic Acid and CBD mask and Oxygen blast! Leaving you Fresh and Clean while combating the stressors summer brings into our skin! Have a wonderful, happy, fun summer! We hope to see you and are here for all of your skin needs! Love, True Reflection-Skin Professionals Team
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NICOLE ALMAGUER, LC, OWNER AND OPERATOR AT TRUE REFLECTION Licensed since 2008, I got into this industry young. When contemplating to open my own place or not in Waxahachie, I saw signs from God and went for it. I took all my steps to create my own business and getting a space for my practice was so simple that everything fell right into place! I thank God, all my clients that have supported this dream-come-true, and my coworkers who were literally God sent! I still have a long way to go and am looking forward to the future in a positive outlook! Instagram: @truskinpros www.trueskinpros.com 469-245-7414
LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SUMMER 2020
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Island
r e v fe
I just love a fun theme! Every first Saturday at Wild Grace, we treat our customers to a themed appreciation party to kick off the month. Event planning has long been part of my tool box. A couple of years ago I helped pull together a fundraiser for one of my favorite nonprofits and used a welcoming island theme. It was a little ahead of its time. Tropical and Tiki can historically ebb and flow between “tacky to treasured” like the ocean’s tide...but for all luau lovers...the time has once again arrived! Aloha! Throughout winter and spring, I’ve been carefully misting my sweet little indoor mini succulent gardens, and now with summertime here, I’m ready to expand my plant knowledge. I’m seeing a theme opportunity to add some large, colorful, vibrant drama to our inside plant collections, our patios or poolside gardens...and...to our closets! Go big, go green, go bright, or go home!
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I’ve always been drawn to fabric prints. My lifelong career in fashion has included just about every aspect of the business from start to finish. I began as a fabric designer (the “start” of the process) right out of college. This was a dream job utilizing my degree by working for the late Prophecy Corporation. It was during the mid to late 80’s, and it involved designing by method of old school hand sketching and then painting the repeat for fabric patterns. These typically square pieces of art were in turn sent out to mills to become the latest fabrics for each season’s collection. I affectionately called it “pushing pigment” around on paper to ultimately arrive at something that pulls a retail customer in enough to want to purchase and wrap themselves up in it. My eye is naturally and passionately drawn to trending colors, shapes, and details...and right now I’m visually collecting large leaves and bold flowers...real and in art form...as a buyer for my boutique and as a decorator.
Rubber figs, fan palms, banana plants, split leaf philodendrons, fancy leaf caladiums, hibiscus bushes, and stalks of bird of paradise have not only hit the southern garden centers and florists, but are showing up once again in all types of interior design elements and on the runway. I got inspired. My store and both of my pop up shops now have a bit of a tropical twist. My home surroundings will have a subtle hint of island flair with some new plants as long as I can keep them alive. I just purchased a prayer plant with gorgeous glossy pink and green leaves and it’s so colorfully delightful that I pulled out my watercolors to paint it. I’ve been snapping pics of foliage in current pantone perfect settings to frame. I also picked up a Canna Cannova Mango plant with one centered magnificent, exotic salmon colored bloom. I had never heard of it until two days ago. Since I’m pretty new at this, it’s exciting to become sort of a plant person because a lot of these names are just plain fun to say out loud. By any chance, am I speaking your language? LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SUMMER 2020
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Island Fever seems to have currently taken over as we long for escape and travel. Ready to add some flair? Look for happy tropical prints in maxis, palazzo pants, halters, and yes...the proverbial Hawaiian shirt. This time around...don’t take that last one too seriously. Maybe find one at a thrift store that has already seen its fair share of tiki parties and give it a waist with a retro gold chain belt and layer it over white capris. You want to at least pretend to look like a natural, not a Dad tourist. While you are perusing through racks of retro, check out the colorful caftan section for poolside evenings. Also, for me personally, I just can’t seem to pass up a vintage scarf that looks fit for a convertible. Get going. Get outside. Grill rings of fresh pineapple. Bask in flavors. Enjoy the great outdoors and be fashionably sun protective. Headwear must haves include the sultry Bardotesque floppy chapeau, breathable straw sun hats with oversized frayed edge brims, creamy toquilla palm panamas, legendary straw fedoras, or perhaps try a tomboy beach look with a cloth tie-dyed bucket hat. Customize your look. I will artistically embellish from my stockpile of vintage millinery flowers, feathers, assorted fabrics, & velvet ribbons. No hat? Grab a colorful bloom and in islander tradition...decisively show your availability by the ear you choose to adorn. Make music part of your summer journey. Gilberto & Getz’s original version of “The Girl from Ipanema” bouncing through your earbuds is flirtatiously tropical, lifts your spirits and makes your morning walk a bit sunnier. Wear your island garb while the tide is high. Meanwhile I’m looking for a pink hibiscus for my right ear. Peace, love, & blessings, Melissa Wild Grace Instagram & Facebook @shopwildgrace shopwildgrace.com 972-205-9819
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LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SUMMER 2020
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The Joy of Mosaics
at-Home BY CLAIRE CONN, OWNER OF MOSAIC MADNESS
While most of the world has been put on a halt, creativity is not cancelled! I am so thankful to be able to continue to share the joy of mosaics by offering projects-to-go to enjoy at home. I’ve made a “mosaic menu” of sorts, similar to how projects are chosen at our shop, where you select your wooden base, choose your assortment of glass colors, and pick a grout color to finish it. Everything you need to make the mosaic will be included. Spread out a blanket in the yard, find a picnic table, or get comfy at your kitchen table & CREATE!!
What are mosaics, you ask? It is an art form dating back at least 4,000 years! It is the assemblage of broken pieces of glass (or tile, stone, pottery, etc.) held together with adhesive and grout. There is something about the shine, sparkle, and color of glass that makes it an interesting and unique medium to work with. Mosaic making can be very meditative and a great way to practice mindfulness. It can bring calmness in a time of stress - I know this firsthand! Not only that, but mosaics are unique, quirky, colorful, and so much fun to do! I’m going to show you how simple creating a mosaic masterpiece is. They are fun for all ages - even my toddler has made a few! I sure do miss all of the creative energy in the mosaic studio. Getting to see the excitement and wonder as customers come through our doors, the peaceful and contemplative-zone customers get in while creating, and the look of accomplishment as a mosaic project is complete. Nothing compares to that! I am not sure what the future holds, but for now, I find joy in putting together these simple mosaic projects and hope you have joy while creating them.
How to order a mosaic project-to-go: Check out our website www.mosaicmadness.net and it will direct you to our “Mosaic Kits at Home” page, where new projects are added weekly. Feel free to email us at info@mosaicmadness.net , or get it touch on Facebook or Instagram.
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y e The k
to your new home Nick Hester and Mid-Tex Mortgage strive to be Ellis County leader in home buying process A house is often the largest single purchase any one family will make. And it’s also one of the more terrifying, especially for first-time homeowners who have yet to traverse the often-overwhelming road of interest rates, lenders, pre-qualification requirements and several dozen signature lines. One crucial aspect that is often overlooked, however, is how imperative it is to choose the right mortgage lender, especially one that is an expert on the local market and that knows the realtors and title companies on a personal level. It also helps when that same individual can close a mortgage loan in as quickly as 14 days. Those characteristics and more perfectly describe Nick Hester and his team at MidTex Mortgage Company in Waxahachie. For proof of their expertise, one would not need to look much further than the paid dividends to homebuyers in early May, as Mid-Tex was able to close 15-year loans with interest rates in the upper 2’s — well below the current industry floor.
“Knowledge is key in this business and it’s all about bringing everything together to hit that so important closing date,” said Nick as he sat across his desk in the boutique-style office. “There is a lot of stress in this business, but seeing people happily close on time and getting their keys is very rewarding, and sometimes I even get a hug they’re so excited.” Nick is a veteran of the United States Army, having enlisted shortly after graduating from Waxahachie High School in 1985. He and his wife, Kayla, were married two years later and
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a year later she was accepted into pharmacy school at the University of Texas in Austin. Nick quickly found a job in the Austin area and enrolled in classes at Southwest Texas State in San Marcos, working and attending school full time until he graduated in 1992. The Hesters then returned home to Waxahachie shortly after he graduated from now-Texas State University. Two years later and at the advice of his neighbor, Nick began his career in the mortgage business with an entry-level job at Citizens National Bank of Texas in Waxahachie.
“We always strive to land the best rate on the market for our customers and have options to do it,” Nick added. “Let me look at your file. It’s not all about saving money but, when it all comes down to it, it really is all about saving money.
“Explore your options and make sure you are getting a good deal. If someone is taking care of you, I’ll be the first one to tell you. But, at the same time, if I can look at it and save you $100 per month well, that’s $100.”
“There is no telling how many people have started their own businesses after working for Mark [Singleton],” Nick acknowledged. Five years later, Nick ventured out and found a niche opening mortgage departments within smaller local banks. Those smaller banks kept being purchased by larger banks, leading Nick to move to a large corporatelyowned mortgage lender, where he soon learned the interest rate he was able to offer his borrowers didn’t always keep them happy. So in September 2018, Nick opened Mid-Tex Mortgage, and he hasn’t looked back since. The Mid-Tex team of three brokers all of their loans, placing them with lenders that provide the best service and pricing. Nick reiterated that, if prequalified, the group can close a mortgage loan in as little as 14 days. He also stressed that the biggest difference between a corporately-owned mortgage company and a family-owned business like Mid-Tex is the option to shop several lenders.
Nick Hester Owner of Mid-Tex Mortgage
“Is it truly taking care of somebody if you aren’t giving them the best possible rate,” Nick questioned. “Because, the way that I look at it, taking care of somebody is trying to get them the best possible rate while providing great service and closing on time.” PAID ADVERTISEMENT
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STORY & PHOTOS BY REVIVAL LIVING INTERIORS Summer 2020 is here and we are ready for sunshine! We know this summer will look different for all of us. Instead of being sad about missing summer travel with hotels and VRBOs, we’re taking this time to celebrate our own backyards and time with our families. It never ceases to amaze us how a few changes can create an oasis for the whole family to enjoy. We’ve put together a Revival Recommends Backyard Collection to get you started on envisioning your own backyard sanctuary! Whether it’s a new couch, a few throw pillows or a great, new plant, we’re loving a neutral palate that lets the beauty of nature shine. A great mix of materials like wood, concrete, upholstery and iron help achieve the right blend of comfort, durability and beauty without distracting from the focus we want to have on the beauty of nature. We always enjoy grabbing some colorful flowers and some green plants from our favorite, local greenery. And don’t forget! The most beautiful design is no fun if you are getting eaten alive by mosquitos! Stacie’s dad is our own in-house entomologist and highly recommends these Thermacell Mosquito Repellers. We don’t know where COVID-19 has you, but we hope a little outdoor revival will create a space for great conversation, help bring some sunshine to your skin, and put a smile on your face. Like our mommas used to say “when life gives you lemons, make lemonade”.
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EMILY MYERS AND STACIE CAFFEY Revival Living Interiors in Bryan, Texas began when two friends shared a love for interior design and thought just maybe other people would like their style. We pray that, through this business, we may help others live their best story, with their home as they’re starting point, resting place, and the setting for what is most important. Thanks for letting us share a little bit of our world with you. We hope you can see your favorite spaces with a fresh eye and a little inspiration. Here’s to a February filled with balance - in life and in design! We’ve got many design ideas we can’t wait to share with you. www.revivallivinginteriors.com
THE ART OF Organizing What is organization? To me, it is just as much a mental aspect as it is a physical put-together space. I have not figured out my enneagram number but I know I thrive when things are in order. Before I start anything I have to have a picked up clean space. Buying new school supplies and setting up my binders with new crisp tabs was the best time of the year. I hate to say I can not function in chaos (because I have four kids and sometimes life is chaotic) but having order gives me the balance I need to take care of my family.
At the end of the day most of us need jobs and income. But for me it had to go deeper. It had to have impact. It had to help people. It could not be just about making money. I prayed over all of these wants and wishes and Organized by Di was born. I knew I was good at it. I knew it would help people.
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I feel like the mental aspect of organizing and having systems is straight forward. Except its not. We love our stuff. We become attached to our stuff. And its overwhelming to sort through it. I am aware of that and I have the utmost respect for my clients and their spaces. I understand there may be tears as we go through some big areas of their homes. We can hug it out and keep going. I always ask my clients to close their eyes and picture the space. What does it look like if it was organized and functional? Envision it. See every single detail down to the color of basket. Now open your eyes. How do you feel? How does that make your mind and your heart feel? We have our goal and that’s where we start. I am not a counselor but I do love seeing people become who they say they want to be. I love to coach. Getting your home in order allows you to focus your time and energy on what matters most.
STORY BY DIANNA GLENN, OWNER + DESIGNER OF ORGANIZED BY DI
Now on to the tangible steps. When I first meet with you we discuss your use of space and how you want it to look. Much like interior design I narrow down some of the aesthetic decisions and then give options. This bin or that bin, etc. I guide with my professional opinion knowing what works where. At the end of the day it has to be what the client wants, what they envisioned, and most importantly it has to function in a way that makes the most sense to the client and the family that will be using the space.
Once we get the design concept planned out I get to work. • remove everything from the space • clean the empty space • go through all the items that were removed • create a trash, a donate and a keep pile with the clients help • put all the keep items back into the space in an organized manner (bins, hangers, labels, etc) • haul off the trash and donate piles Again, it sounds simple…but we all know it gets heavy once you get into it. That is where my job comes in…to keep things going and ask for the decisions. I am constantly reminding my clients of their end goal, their vision, as we work through their stuff.
“your home should be the antidote to stress not the cause of it.” -Peter Welsch
DIANNA GLENN OWNER OF ORGANIZED BY DI Dianna Glenn was born and raised in Ennis TX, attended St. John Catholic School and graduated with a degree in Business Management from Texas A&M. She is married to Joe Glenn. They are raising four kids in their white farmhouse with a horse, cats, dogs, new chickens, and soon to be goats. She enjoys being home and doing projects on their homestead. Follow our organized mission @organizedbydi and follow our family farm journey @diannaglenn.
A Labor of Love “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Galatians 6:9 36
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STORY BY JEREMY SIMMONS PHOTOS BY JINA ARMSTRONG PHOTOGRAPHY For Andy and Jina Armstrong, life-long, born and bred Ennisites, working the ground, growing a harvest, and sharing it with family and friends is just as natural as the vegetables they grow. “I just love watching things grow; I’ve done it my whole life.” Says Andy, whose first career was as a farmer in Bardwell, TX. The couple, who celebrated their 37th year of marriage this year, has a few main goals for their sprawling horticulture project: have fun, try new things, share it with those they love, and worship their God. What started out as a meek hobby garden in the Fall of 2014, has grown to a 2,400 square foot “labor of love,” as they like to call it. There are 4 different quadrants to the garden, separated by pea gravel walking paths. On each walking path, you can find shade under a trellis, 3 different seating areas to rest on, a place to get a good view of some wildflowers, or snip some herbs for dinner.
The vegetable varieties include all the staples of a western diet: Onions and potatoes (both Andy’s favorite to grow), peas, squash, corn, okra, cucumbers, green beans, radishes, just to name a few. On one side of the garden, they are even growing peach and plum trees used to make homemade ice cream! In one not-so-modestly sized quadrant, Jina gets her own chance to be the master gardener. “We started growing flowers in
2016 for our daughter, who wanted fresh-cut flowers for her wedding. We had such success that we have done it ever since. We love to give them away as a fun surprise to our friends. We call it our flower ministry.” Harvest season usually begins around the 1st week of June. And what do they do with all of their food? Andy and Jina were both very adamant about not selling it. “We love to give it away,” they say, “to friends, family, and people who need it.”
And surprise would be a great word for what the garden has in store for the couple. “I had no idea how much joy I would find seeing the garden through my granddaughter’s eyes. It’s so much fun to watch her play, try to help, and just to notice the garden.” Says Jina. LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SUMMER 2020
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When asked for tips, Andy says that’s it all about trial and error. “You can research all you want, but you never really know what’s going to work until you do it.” That’s good advice for all areas of life. Sometimes, you just have to get your hands dirty - an activity the Armstrong’s are no strangers to. “You put a seed in the ground and it turns into something that is beautiful but it can feed and sustain our bodies. Early in the morning, we can feel the Lord’s presence. Being out there I feel God speak to me in the quietness of the garden.” Andy says, with a look towards the patch of soil he has worked tirelessly over the years to cultivate into a sanctuary.
A little peace, a little quiet, and watching something grow, maybe just the things we need to make it through till harvest time. 38
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ANDY & JINA ARMSTRONG Andy and Jina are lifelong residents of Ennis. Jina is a family photographer. Her love of photography and her granddaughter Jane, give her even more reasons to spend time in the garden. Andy comes from a farming and ranching background, which is where his love of gardening began. The couple loves to have friends and family over to visit & share the garden. They get the most joy out of being able to share their home grown goods! Andy and Jina have been married for 37 years and have 2 grown children, Wade and his wife Bethany, Claire and her husband Jeremy. Claire and Jeremy have a 2 yr old daughter Jane. To keep up with what’s happening in the garden, You can follow them on Instagram @jinaarmstrong & Jina’s photography’s @jinaarmstrongphotography www.jinaarmstrongphotography.com
LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // SUMMER 2020
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Ellis County Master GardenErs
Monthly Tips
BY MELINDA KOCIAN, ELLIS COUNTY MASTER GARDENERS ASSOCIATION
tips for PLANTING
JUNE
• Buy and plant crape myrtles in bloom to be sure you are getting the desired color. Know the variety’s mature size to avoid future pruning. Ask for varieties that are resistant to powdery mildew. • This is the best time to plant vinca (periwinkle) in full sun. Look for the variety ‘Cora’ since it is resistant to soil-borne diseases. Water with drip irrigation or soaker hose to keep water off foliage. • Plant these tropical annuals for their flowers: tropical hibiscus, ‘Gold Star’ esperanza, mandevilla and Mexican heather. Use croton, bougainvillea and variegated tapioca for their foliage color. • June is the time to select day lily varieties as they reach peak bloom.
FERTILIZING AND PRUNING • It is time for the second application of an all-nitrogen, slowrelease fertilizer on turf grasses. Cut the amount by half to prevent excessive growth which means more water and mowing! • Fertilize container plants and hanging baskets with a watersoluble fertilizer every week or two. • Prune back autumn sage and mealy cup sage by one-third their size. Deadhead salvias, as well as annuals and perennials, to stimulate new growth to allow the plant to continue reblooming until late fall. • Continue to prune as necessary, fall-blooming plants such as Mexican bush sage, mountain sage, Mexican mint marigold, copper canyon daises, asters and mums to keep them compact and to prevent buds from forming prematurely. Don’t prune after September 1 when buds begin to form. • Remove flower stalks on coleus, caladiums, lamb’s ear and basil before buds open. This will promote new leaf growth.
GARDEN WATCH • Take a critical look at your landscape while at the height of summer development. Make notes on how the landscape can be better arranged; plants that need replacement, overgrown plants that need to be removed; or possibly, areas that can be converted to more family-friendly activities. Save this information for implementation later in the year or next spring. • Control aphids on crape myrtles with a strong spray of water. • Spider mites can be troublesome, especially on tomatoes. Treat with an appropriate organic or synthetic pesticide. • Control webworms in pecan and other trees using a pole pruner. Remove while webs are small. • Wrap the trunks of newly-planted shumard oak and Chinese pistache trees to prevent sunscald and borers.
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tips for PLANTING
JULY
• Plant tomatoes and peppers from 4-inch pots. Visit http:// aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/vegetable for recommended varieties. • Early July is the time to plant small and medium pumpkins for a Halloween harvest. • Plant heat-tolerant annuals that have been acclimated to hot, sunny conditions. This includes moss rose, purslane, trailing lantana, purple fountain grass, firebush and copper plants. • Lawn grasses can be planted this month, but you will need to water twice daily for short intervals to keep soil surface moist until the grass has established good roots, usually in two to three weeks.
FERTILIZING AND PRUNING • Fertilize plants that bloom on new growth, such as crape myrtles, tropical hibiscus and roses, with a high-nitrogen fertilizer to promote late-summer growth and fall blooms. Apply same fertilizer to boost summer annuals and fallflowering perennials. • Light pruning of erratic spring growth may be done to maintain the natural form. Dead and diseased wood from trees and shrubs should be removed. Major pruning should be postponed until mid-winter. • Deadhead all blooming plants. Remove dead leaves and spent blooms from container plants.
GARDEN WATCH • Be a “plant health” detective! Plants respond in various ways to heat and drought stress. These symptoms are often misdiagnosed as an insect or disease problem. Correctly identify the problem before turning to a pesticide. • Galls on leaves of oaks, hackberries and other trees are caused by many species of gall-forming insects, and are result of the female stinging the leaf tissues as she lays her eggs. Galls are harmless since the insect doesn’t feed on plant tissues. • Watch for lawn pests. Dry, light-colored areas in sunny parts of St. Augustine are probably the result of chinch bugs (small black insects with a white diamond on their backs). Apply Merit (imidacloprid) or other labeled insecticide. Grub worms are the culprits if the turf turns brown and easily comes up when pulled on. Treat with a granular insecticide. • Rapid death of established landscape plants and orchard trees during the summer may signify the presence of cotton root rot, a soil-borne fungal disease common in our calcareous clay soils. Since there is no effective control, verification by the Plant Disease Diagnostic Lab at Texas A&M (http://plantclinic. tamu.edu) will help you know what plants can be used as replacements.
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Emerald City Therapies: Think big. Have heart. Be brave. BY MELANIE REYNOLDS, M.S., CCC-SLP/CEO/OWNER
Inspired by the classic children’s story The Wizard of Oz , Emerald City Therapies helps children of Ellis County discover the tools they need to access and engage the world around them. Sometimes, for parents and children alike, gathering knowledge, holding your heart close and mustering the courage to journey down their own unique road (yellow tinged if you will) can be lonely and daunting tasks. Emerald City Therapies’ highly qualified staff can assist families with identifying the unique needs of their child and develop a customized roadmap that fosters positive outcomes for all. Demands of the 21st century have left our children with shortened attention spans, reduced explorative play times, and unhampered emotions. These changes, combined with the rigor of school curriculum, increase the chances of a child developing gaps in foundational skills needed to be a successful student and adult. When children miss these critical developmental milestones it can often lead to undesirable behaviors, difficulties in school, and disruptions in a family’s well being. What can you do to ensure your child is on the yellow brick road to success? ROUTINES : Begin by sticking to a daily routine so your child knows what to expect throughout the day. This also helps your child organize information making it easier to recall facts from the day in the order of occurrences. For some families it can be a loose schedule such as consistent meal times but for others a visual schedule may be beneficial.
READ : Provide a variety of reading materials for your child. Higher level books are perfect for a cuddle on the couch with a loved one and exposure to descriptive vocabulary while lower level books allow a child to build confidence as a reader.
ENGAGE : Have conversations about your daily activities. Describe what you are doing, how you are feeling, and define unfamiliar vocabulary. For younger children, make up songs to familiar tunes to describe activities such as bath time or getting dressed.
EXPLORE : Allow your child the freedom to safely explore indoor and outdoor environments. Simple household chores encourage eye hand coordination and fine motor skills. Outdoor play activates sensory systems and contributes to cognitive and social emotional growth.
When tips and tricks don’t seem to be enough Emerald City Therapies can provide your child the latest in evaluation, treatment and academic achievement programs. We offer speech therapy, occupational therapy, dyslexia therapy and academic support specific to your child’s needs. Our services are more than assessment and evidence based practices. We provide compassion, encouragement, advocacy and education to each child and caregiver that walks through our doors. Now more than ever parents need flexibility in service delivery. That’s why we offer a variety of options including parent coaching, face-to-face therapy and tutoring, and virtual services. Be sure to visit our website for more details on services we offer at www.emeraldcitytherapies.com or find us on Facebook. Let us help you and your child pave the road to success one yellow brick at a time.
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MELANIE REYNOLD M.S., CCC-SLP/CEO/OWNER Melanie Reynold is a licensed and certified speech language pathologist. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Health Education and Master’s degree in Speech Language Pathology from Texas Woman’s University. Melanie’s expertise is in early language development but the rising numbers in autism have given her over 15 years of experience with executive function, emotional regulation, and social competencies. In addition, she treats children with developmental disorders, apraxia, dysphagia, augmentative communication, and other exceptional needs. Melanie resides in Waxahachie, Texas with her husband, three children and 2 goldendoodles. (214) 980-1397 www.emeraldcitytherapies.com
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a season of
SUPPORT Spring 2020 was looking like one of the best seasons ever. Our catering calendar was full with rehearsal dinners, weddings, corporate fundraisers and numerous ladies luncheons. Acres of tulips were blooming at Poston Gardens and thousands of tourists were about to flood into Waxahachie to pick flowers, meet friends for lunch and shop our store for new spring clothing and candles in sweet smelling scents of the season. That all ended on March 18.
We didn’t have a plan for a pandemic. Our business interruption insurance doesn’t cover a worldwide virus outbreak, even though it should. Our kitchen and wait staff couldn’t afford to lose their jobs with car payments and school loans. Several are single moms with rent due, so closing just wasn’t an option. Eight days later a member of our family died after a long battle with Leukemia and we couldn’t even hug each other and have a funeral. The world had changed in a matter of days and we needed a plan. From the moment we announced we were going to stay open and turn our restaurant into a curbside pick up operation, our phones never stopped ringing. Our customers rallied around us like protective shepherds guarding their flock. We transitioned into selling quarts of soup, family dinners and whole pies. We fed essential workers each day and even had calls from all over the country buying lunch for businesses like Sea Long Medical Supply, who garnered national attention after they began making ventilators in their Waxahachie garage. Our patrons not only ordered food, but tipped as much, or more, than they would’ve if dining inside. Other patrons bought gift certificates for later use and one of our local elementary schools purchased gift cards for all of their teachers. By the grace of God we made enough money each week to make payroll and buy food to do it all over again the following week. Every day we witnessed the good in people. Customers shared posts to help promote our downtown businesses, while our Chamber of Commerce gals got out every day to make
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videos and help us sell items in the store or rally the troops for lunch orders. The City of Waxahachie did everything possible to help us by lending traffic cones to mark off curbside pick up spots and in making sure we had information from national organizations on maneuvering through this unexpected journey. Just when I was at my lowest one day I found a heart shaped note taped to our front door saying: “Your business, employees and family are being prayed for”.
This may not be the spring we had planned for, but after witnessing the love and care our community shows when times are hard, I have no doubt we will find ourselves in a new season healthier, stronger and wiser.
The last eight weeks have certainly been a challenge, but also a blessing. I am heartbroken so many lives have been lost and so many businesses will not recover from a virus the Communist Chinese government could’ve handled better, but I am also heart filled with the love and compassion our community has showed us in these unprecedented times. In owning the Doves Nest for over 25 years I remember the look of fear and uncertainty on our staff’s faces the morning of September 11, 2001. After the Big Recession in 2008, I remember how long it took to slowly dig ourselves out of debt when no one was spending much money. On a cold winter morning in 2011 I remember waking up in our loft to see a raging fire destroying a block of our historic buildings. I can also recall the slump in sales a few years ago when old water lines in our downtown district had to be replaced and the streets were torn up longer than planned. We have weathered many financial storms over the years and this may well be our biggest hurdle, but the one thing that is always constant is our customers.
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.
Cindy Burch
Wise and Compassionate Counsel
Age-related decline, a bad diagnosis, serious injuries and death derail lives every day. Our attorneys, social workers and staff guide our neighbors through difficult times. We can help you plan ahead or provide protection in times of crisis. That’s what makes us unique among law firms. Free initial consultation for:
Estate Planning (Wills, Trusts) Paying for Long-term Care Asset Protection Planning Death and Probate Serious Injury and Wrongful Death Claims
We can help you get back on track.
417 West Main Waxahachie, TX 75165 972.351.0000 www.TheHaleLawFirm.com
John D. Hale Jacob A. Hale Lindsey Cantu-Hughes
