Porter, TX March 2025

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Our orthopedic and sports medicine specialists can help keep your body in motion.

Whether you’re suffering from simple aches and pains or recovering from a complex injury, our board-certified specialists develop treatment plans tailored to your unique needs. From diagnosis and treatment through physical therapy and rehabilitation, we have the expertise to get you back on your feet and keep you moving.

Schedule an appointment: houstonmethodist.org/orthopedics 713.790.3333

March Into a Season of Renewal

Hello Porter City Lifestyle Community!

As the first hints of spring begin to bloom, March invites us to embrace renewal and growth in all aspects of our lives. From fresh opportunities to reconnect with our passions to taking a moment to appreciate the beauty around us, this season serves as a gentle reminder that every new day brings a chance to grow and flourish.

This month, we’re thrilled to spotlight stories that inspire and uplift. From celebrating local businesses that bring unique charm to our community, to sharing tips for creating a fresh, inviting space in your home, we hope these pages leave you feeling motivated to make the most of the season.

March also brings exciting local events, outdoor activities, and opportunities to connect with neighbors and friends. Whether it’s a weekend farmers market, a nature walk with family, or supporting a new local partner, there are countless ways to engage with the vibrant heart of our community.

As always, we are grateful for the privilege of sharing these moments with you. Let’s step into the season of renewal together, ready to explore all the possibilities it holds.

Wishing you a March filled with growth, joy, and connection.

Warm regards,

March 2025

PUBLISHER

Rachel Burk | rachel.burk@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Stacy Leach | stacy.leach@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Jamie Allgood | jamie.allgood@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Rachel Burk, Amber Dobyns, and Stacy Leach

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Fireheart Photography

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

CTO Ajay Krishnan

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Congratulations to Valerie Molina and Elijah Thomas on earning a place in Texas All-State Choir! 2: The Needham, Porter, Conroe, and North Montgomery County Fire Departments assisted California with the wildfires. 3: Commissioner Matt Gray hosted Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick and others to discuss community issues. 4: A fantastic night of music, auctions, and community fun supporting the New Caney/ Splendora HMGT. 5: Thank you for joining PCL as we explored local gyms to kickstart 2025! 6: Enjoying a magical moment as rare snow transformed our local area into a winter wonderland! 7: Porter High School students shine on stage, showcasing their talent in an unforgettable play!

Want to be seen in the magazine?

NEW CANEY HIGH SCHOOL
JUDGE MARK KEOUGH
JIM LENNON
JUANITA HANSON
JAMIE ALLGOOD
TREY GAMBLE
TOBIAS

Elite Hospital Kingwood Partners with Unity Preferred Network

Starting January 1, 2025, Elite Hospital Kingwood is in-network with Unity Preferred Health Network, providing affordable emergency care for millions in Northeast Houston. UPHN members, covering 4 million people across Texas, can access Elite’s services at in-network rates. Members are advised to confirm their coverage and network status through their employer or benefit administrator. For more information, visit  elitehospitalkingwood.com

Welcome Cady Mulkey: New Marketing Coordinator at The Highlands!

The Highlands by Caldwell Communities is thrilled to add a marketing coordinator to their team! Cady Mulkey will oversee marketing efforts for The Highlands, including ads, digital efforts, signage, website, and more. She will also coordinate events to drive engagement and brand awareness, ensuring seamless execution.

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Welcome to Chamber of Commerce 2025 Board!

The EMC Chamber of Commerce has elected its 2025 board, and we're proud to announce that two of them are partners. Cameron Hayes, Edward Jones - Financial Advisor, has been appointed to the Board of Directors, and Lauren Cash from Elite Hospital Kingwood has been appointed as a Board Member. With so much opportunity in the business community, their leadership will help make it even stronger

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Allow me to take on the hassle of shopping for health insurance for your family or business I walk with you every step of the way to make sure the plan meets your needs and budget A lot people think the marketplace is their only option when they’re self-employed or leaving an employer and that’s not true

Please feel free to reach out to see if I can protect your family as I have mine with a nationwide PPO network that you can keep without worrying about re-qualifying each year A quick phone call or text is all it takes!

Rocking Horse Day Care

We make learning fun

Exceptional Programs for Every Age: From infants to preschoolers all the way to 5th grade, we provide a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment that sparks creativity, confidence, and growth!

Before & after school care available.

Affordable Pricing:

Infants (6wks - 22 mo): $210/week | Toddlers (23 mo - potty trained): $195/week Preschoolers (3,4,&5): $175/week | Before & After School care: $125/week

Enroll Today! Spots are filling fast— scan QR code or visit rockinghorsetx.com to schedule a tour!

Two Convenient Locations: 23586 Partners Way | 20297 FM 1485 W www.rockinghorsedaycarecenters.com | 281.354.3212

Discover Luxury Living at Imperial Oaks Square

Imperial Oaks Square offers stylish studio, 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments with chef-inspired kitchens, wood-style flooring, and spacious layouts. Located in Spring, near Falls at Imperial Oaks and Benders Landing, it combines urban convenience with serene nature, featuring lakes, walking paths, and quick access to TX-99 and I-45. Enjoy top-tier amenities like a 24-hour athletic club, resort-style pool, and complimentary covered parking—designed to meet every resident’s need for comfort and luxury.

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Elevate Your Space with One-of-a-Kind Metallic Epoxy

Flooring

MACH ONE is now offering Metallic Epoxy Flooring, which is a high-performance flooring system that combines epoxy resin with metallic pigments to create a glossy, dynamic, and colorful surface.  The metallic pigments interact with the epoxy to create a unique, marbled, or 3D effect, giving each floor a one-of-a-kind design.

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TRANSFORM Your Space

MACH ONE EPOXY FLOORS: DURABLE, STYLISH, AND LONG-LASTING SOLUTIONS

After serving 9 years in the U.S. Air Force and working in the corporate world for 3 years, Ben Carter found himself burnt out and craving a fresh start. He wanted to embark on a new journey, and that’s when he discovered MACH ONE Epoxy Floors. He decided to franchise the Houston location, and it’s been the best decision he's ever made! MACH ONE Epoxy Floors offers unmatched durability and cost-effectiveness, especially when compared to other flooring options. Epoxy floors can last over 30 years with proper maintenance, far outlasting painted garage floors that may peel within a year. Epoxy is also food-grade safe and won’t harbor moisture or bacteria like rubber mats can, making it perfect for garages and patios. With a variety of finishes, including flake, solid, and metallic epoxy in nearly any color, a customized look can be created for any space. The long-lasting protection of epoxy floors also helps avoid costly concrete repairs down the road, adding value to your home.

“MACH ONE Epoxy Floors provides long-lasting, durable solutions that enhance your home’s value with minimal maintenance and maximum style.”

What is the process involved in installing epoxy flooring, and how long does it typically take?

We prepare the concrete by profiling the surface with a 1,200-pound concrete grinder to remove any previous coatings, stains, or concrete finishes. This opens the concrete up to adhere better to the epoxy and is a crucial step for longevity! We then fix any cracks or imperfections in the concrete, then if installing a typical flake epoxy floor we will roll on a base coat of high-performance epoxy with 100% broadcasted flake. We let the flake sink into the epoxy and let it cure overnight and then the next day we will apply a polyaspartic clear coat on top which is what gives the floor all the many attributes it is known for such as being durable and scratch/ UV/chemical resistant. It is typically a two-day process, however we can accelerate the epoxy for a one-day install if our timeline is short.

What kind of maintenance does epoxy flooring require to ensure its longevity?

You can clean the floors by leaf blowing, mopping, sweeping, or a garden hose to spray it off. Promptly wiping up any chemical spills, such as fuel or oil will help it to not stain. It won't ruin the top coat, however if oil sits for too long it will dry and be hard to get out of the top coat. There are special cleaners used on resinous floors which will get most residential stains out.

Do you offer any warranties on your installations, and what do they cover?

For residential flooring, we offer a Limited Lifetime Warranty, which covers peeling or bubbling due to the epoxy not adhering to the concrete for the lifetime of the owner owning the home.

If you are ready to enhance your space with epoxy floor coatings, contact MACH ONE™—trusted, Veteran-owned contractors serving Houston, The Woodlands, and surrounding areas. Experience service, integrity, and pride in every project.

Celebrate Your Way

Private Dining

Book your celebration with us for the ultimate experience: rehearsal dinner, baby shower, birthday, anniversary, and graduation. Semiprivate option for parties from 100-175 people. Reach out today!

DESIGNING SPACES, Crafting Lasting Memories

How Emily Woods Turned Passion into Purpose

ARTICLE BY AMBER DOBYNS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOSH SPIRES
Amy Weison Photography

The smell of mold lingered in the air as Emily Woods stepped into another home devastated by Hurricane Harvey. Piles of waterlogged belongings lined the curb outside, and inside, the chaos was palpable. A distressed wife struggled to communicate her kitchen vision to a carpenter, while her husband, overwhelmed and exhausted, stood helplessly by. Emily, tape measure in hand, calmly assessed the scene. Within an hour, her handdrawn floor plan and millwork elevations brought clarity to the project. The carpenter had direction, the couple had peace, and Emily had once again proven that “seeing is believing.” Moments like this have defined her career and calling.

Emily’s journey to becoming the founder of Woods Design House in Kingwood, Texas, began with her parents’ influence. Her father, a finish carpenter with a woodworking shop in north Houston, taught her to read blueprints as a child. Her mother encouraged her creative instincts, letting her redecorate her room every few years. After earning her associate’s degree in interior design from Lone Star College in 2001—the same year she married her husband, Doran—Emily combined her passion for design with hands-on experience. She worked at The Home Depot, freelanced in interior design, and eventually secured a role managing the design studio for Meritage Homes.

In 2008, Emily stepped away from her corporate career to focus on raising her family, but her passion for design never waned. When Hurricane Harvey devastated her community in 2017, Emily found herself back at the drafting table—this time at her dining room table, balancing motherhood and homeschooling. Over the following months, she designed over 64 homes, offering neighbors millwork cabinet designs, space planning, and material selections, all while charging modest fees to cover babysitting costs. “Renovations and new construction can be some of the most stressful investments of a lifetime,” Emily says. “I wanted to offer a helping hand in that process.”

Fast forward to 2025, and Woods Design House is a thriving, faith-based design firm with a team of 11 and a beautiful studio in Kingwood. Emily’s passion for teaching and mentorship has shaped her company culture, which she describes as a “team effort” blending diverse talents. Her firm handles over 100 projects annually, ranging from renovation projects of all sizes— between custom homes to commercial spaces. Services include architectural space planning, material selection, and white-glove décor services. Emily’s favorite design style is transitional, blending traditional elements with modern, clean lines to create timeless, elegant spaces. This dedication to detail and collaboration has made Woods Design House a trusted name for those seeking both functionality and beauty in their spaces.

One standout project, The Pickleball Zone, showcases her talent for blending functionality with elegance. This 10-court facility features a bar and lounge exuding country club sophistication, reflecting Emily’s belief that every detail matters. Emily credits her husband, Doran, who joined the business full-time in 2024, with helping the firm achieve new heights. Together, they continue to dream big, from designing multi-generational homes to collaborating with local builders and realtors. “Home is everything,” Emily says. “It’s where we make memories, host loved ones, and find peace. Well-designed spaces aren’t just beautiful—they’re life-changing.” With a solid design plan and a knowledgeable partner like Woods Design House, clients can confidently transform their spaces into something extraordinary. For Emily, it’s not just about design—it’s about creating a legacy of beauty, comfort, and connection.

HOW SKERO’S FURNITURE THRIVES THROUGH INTEGRITY AND SERVICE

From Crossroads to Community

ARTICLE BY AMBER DOBYNS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY FIREHEART PHOTOGRAPHY

In April 2000, Daron Skero found himself at a life-altering crossroads. His lifestyle had taken a toll on his relationships, his future, and his faith. With his first child on the way, he knew he needed to make a change—not just for himself but for the life he was about to bring into the world. On a Saturday evening, burdened by his mistakes and searching for peace, Daron turned to the Lord. In a moment of vulnerability, he sought forgiveness and guidance, trusting God to help him start anew. What followed was a profound transformation: a life of peace, joy, and purpose, centered on honesty and integrity.

In March 2002, Daron launched Kingwood Furniture and Consignment with his parents. By 2007, he took full ownership, rebranding it as Skeros Furniture and Mattress Center, setting the stage for continued growth. Fueled by his faith and a desire to create a positive, safe space for his team and the community, Daron built a business where values come first. From the moment its doors opened, Skero’s Furniture became known for its warm hospitality, fair pricing, and commitment to helping customers create homes filled with comfort and love.

At the heart of Skero’s Furniture lies a simple yet profound principle: treat others the way you would want to be treated. Inspired by The Golden Rule from Matthew 7:12, Daron instilled this value into every aspect of the business. Whether working with manufacturers, serving customers, or mentoring employees, Skero’s Furniture

operates with integrity and kindness, always striving to meet the highest standards. The business has grown to encompass three locations in Kingwood, Crosby, and Atascocita, each offering a wide selection of furniture from over 38 trusted manufacturers. By maintaining strong relationships with suppliers, Skero’s ensures that customers have access to quality furniture at every price point.

Beyond furniture, Skero’s commitment to the community shines through its Atascocita location, known as The Locker. This space serves a dual purpose: offering low-cost items—like showroom samples, vendor deals, and scratch-and-dent furniture—to families in need and hosting a co-ed Bible study every Tuesday morning. Open to all, The Locker is a testament to Daron’s mission to give back, spreading hope and support to those who need it most.

Throughout his journey, Daron has relied on his faith to navigate challenges. Whether it’s staying honest in tough business situations, encouraging his team to serve customers with care, or ensuring Skero’s operates with integrity, Daron lives by an “audience of one” philosophy, always seeking to honor the Lord. For customers and employees alike, Skero’s Furniture is more than a business—it’s a place where values matter, relationships are nurtured, and every decision reflects a commitment to faith and community.

At Skero’s, we treat everyone like family, guided by faith and integrity. “ ”

Curb Appeal

Toni Mueller’s Secrets for a Vibrant Spring Yard

As the Winter dissipates, and Spring peeks through, being outside is a novelty lately missed. Riding bikes, taking walks, playing in the yard with family – all memory opportunities. One large piece of those memories is the place they are made… home. March is the perfect time to reinvent or dress up the exterior of any home - giving a little love to lawn and flower beds. Toni Mueller, a local celebrated landscape designer of Porter, Texas, shares some of her tips and favorites to bring the beauty of Spring right to your yard. Toni has owned First Impressions landscape design company for over 40 years in this community. Her portfolio spans large home building companies, custom home builders, and local residents as clients. She’s also been featured in Better Homes and Gardens throughout her tenure on more than one occasion.

Foundation for Flower Beds

STEP 1

Choose Live Mulch: The popular and most affordable, Black mulch, often used in gardens, is essentially lifeless. If you’ve previously used black mulch, it’s time to remove it. Instead, opt for Black Humus, a fantastic alternative that enriches the soil - or a live mulch.

STEP 2

Decide on Your Garden Style: Whether you prefer a charming cottage garden, a formal, structured look, or a vibrant wildflower bed, picking a style helps guide your plant choices and design.

STEP 3

Rework the Soil: Any area where you plan to plant flowers must be thoroughly worked and churned. Add compost to boost nutrient levels and prepare the soil for planting - then get to planting!

Creating a beautiful garden/flower bed is amazing, but the yard needs just as much attention for that wow factor. Toni shares with us her loose lawn schedule.

Lawn Care Calendar

1. Feb/March: 15-5-10 quick-release fertilizer

2. April: 15-5-10 slow-release fertilizer

3. July: 15-5-10 slow-release fertilizer

4. October: 16-8-12 winterizer fertilizer

In the Spring, make sure to aerate, add some gypsum to soften our clay grounds, and even spread some manure compost to improve grass and soil. Grub worms are common in the Spring as well. Dylox is the best treatment for these if they arise. If weeds are a problem, Barricade and Dimension are great products to use for prevention of Spring Weeds!

Great SPRING PLANTS

When considering what to plant, opt for perennials over annuals to ensure your garden comes back to life year after year. Keep annuals to a minimum for a low-maintenance garden.

Below are some of Toni's favorite perennials to bring life and color to your gardens.

1. Canna Lilies: The dwarf varieties are an excellent choice. Remember to use anti-worm treatments.

2. Vinca: Lively and colorful additions.

3. Grasses: Liriope, especially the named “big blue”, stays green year-round.

4. Drift Roses: These come in various colors, are easy to maintain, and spread beautifully if you have space to fill.

5. Geraniums: Wide range of colors; adds vibrancy to your garden.

6. Bulbs: Day lilies now come in ever-blooming varieties that bloom twice a year. Irises are another classic choice.

7. Blue Daze: This ground cover freezes in winter but reliably returns in spring.

8. Bridal’s Wreath Shrub: This can grow quite large and produces an abundance of white flowers in spring for a perfect sweetness.

Popular Trees FOR YARD COLOR

If there's space, adding height to your yard is always a good idea. Incorporate these trees to add a splash of color and interest:

1. Crepe Myrtle - great to add color, and also a pollinator for our local bees.

2. Althea Tree - low maintenance and beautiful.

3. Chinese Fringe Tree - Jaw Dropping, one time a year blooming tree with white flowers.

4. Loquat Tree - fruit, flowers, and ornamental value.

5. Lemon Tree: A rewarding challenge if you have the space.

6. Camellia Shrubs: Flowering shrubs that need ample fertilizer. Plant anytime, but expect blooms in late winter.

CRAFTING LEGACY

The Royal Texan Homes Experience

In the realm of custom home construction, Royal Texan Homes stands apart as an artisan of living spaces—creating not mere houses, but personal sanctuaries where life's most precious moments unfold. Each morning a Royal Texan home brings a renewed appreciation for the thoughtful details that transform a residence into a masterwork of design and comfort.

Minutes from the heart of Porter, this distinguished builder has reimagined the homebuilding journey into an adventure of discovery and creation. Their constellation of talent—architects and artisans drawn from across the globe—brings diverse perspectives that marry timeless architectural wisdom with

contemporary innovation. This sophisticated fusion yields homes that transcend traditional boundaries, each standing as a unique testament to the art of custom construction.

The company's genesis speaks volumes about its values. Founder Mark Garraty, saw through a challenging experience an opportunity to improve the residential construction industry and experience.

He established Royal Texan Homes with an unwavering commitment to integrity. Their philosophy—exceeding National building standards while refusing to compromise on quality—has positioned them as standard-bearers in the industry.

Client consultations unfold like conversations among old friends, marked by genuine warmth and shared enthusiasm. Here, dreams are not just discussed but deeply understood, as skilled hands translate cherished visions into architectural reality. From initial concept to final detail, each decision reflects a harmonious collaboration between homeowner and craftsman.

What sets Royal Texan Homes apart is their masterful integration of craftsmanship with cutting-edge innovation. This synthesis produces residences that are not only visually striking but also paragons of sustainability and efficiency. Every element, from grand architectural statements to intimate personal touches, bears the hallmark of excellence that defines the Royal Texan signature.

The moment of revelation, when clients first step into their completed home, often brings profound emotion. In these spaces, they discover not just rooms and hallways, but a carefully orchestrated environment where every detail speaks to the extraordinary care invested in its creation.

For those who seek a Design and Build journey that rises above the ordinary, Royal Texan Homes offers an unparalleled journey from conception to creation. Through their unique blend of architectural mastery and steadfast dedication to quality, they transform aspirations into enduring legacies—crafting not just homes, but the settings for life's most cherished chapters.

INNOVATION MEETS

ARTISTRY

ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATE SHEETS

Kitchen design has entered a transformative era, where innovation meets artistry to create spaces that are not only functional but also personal and sustainable. With advancements in technology, materials and craftsmanship, today’s kitchens are tailored to meet the evolving needs and tastes of homeowners.

According to interior designer Laura McCroskey, kitchens today are about more than just cooking—they’re an expression of personal lifestyle.

“Kitchen design has entered an exciting time where the possibilities feel limitless,” says McCroskey. “For me, the design process starts before lines are ever drawn on a construction document. I believe in creating spaces that enhance life, both functionally and aesthetically. The design process begins with a discussion about what a space needs to do, and what aesthetic will bring a spark to the homeowner. I also firmly believe that when designing a kitchen, one should walk out a recipe to

“KITCHEN DESIGN HAS ENTERED AN EXCITING TIME WHERE THE POSSIBILITIES FEEL LIMITLESS.”

ideas with practical implementation to achieve the best results.

Technology, sustainability and customization are driving the revolution in kitchen design. Advanced appliances are at the forefront, enhancing convenience while aligning with a growing emphasis on eco-friendliness.

make sure everything is in the right place to suit one’s lifestyle. Cooking zones are imperative to a well-designed kitchen.”

Modern kitchens emphasize zoning, or the creation of dedicated areas for preparation, cooking and storage, to enhance workflow and functionality. These zones not only improve efficiency but also contribute to a cohesive and visually appealing aesthetic.

Cutting-edge rendering software, utilizing technology similar to that used in gaming, allows homeowners to visualize their dream kitchens in hyper-realistic detail. While these tools inspire creativity, McCroskey advises balancing ambitious

“From vacuum-sealing drawers that preserve food and reduce waste to smart appliances controlled by your phone, the emphasis is on efficiency and sustainability. Functional storage built seamlessly into marble countertops and oversized workstation sinks are making daily tasks easier and more enjoyable. Thoughtful features like composting compartments and advanced food preservation methods reflect a broader effort to minimize waste and reduce environmental impact.”

Custom cabinetry that maximizes every inch of space minimizes waste while optimizing functionality.

“Forget the limits of traditional cabinetry. Blind corners, tiny nooks and hidden areas are now designed to maximize storage. Automated drawers and pop-up outlets

THE HEART OF THE HOME

are becoming increasingly common, marrying convenience with sleek aesthetics.”

Design trends have also evolved, becoming more flexible to reflect individual tastes.

“While white kitchens remain timeless and black adds drama, bleached woods continue to be popular. Style trends are no longer as rigid—whether you prefer modern, transitional, or traditional designs, you can create a kitchen tailored to your unique vision. There’s no limit to what you can achieve with today’s tools and technologies. The goal is to create spaces that resonate deeply with the people who live in them.”

The kitchen is the heart of every home and represents a space of endless possibility. Whether your aesthetic leans modern, farmhouse or somewhere in between, the tools and technologies available today make it easier than ever to bring your vision to life.

HOUSEPLANTSThe Perfect Roommate

AN INDOOR GARDEN SANCTUARY

There are many science-based benefits to having houseplants in the home and office environment.

The ubiquitous houseplant has long been a cautious curiosity for many. Comments such as “I don’t have a green thumb,” or “I can’t keep anything alive,” have echoed through the rooms and hallways of almost every home in America. Well, it’s time to dispel all the mistruths about whether houseplants are beneficial and to lay the foundation for a little oasis of green happiness in the corner of every home!

By the way, you don’t really need a green thumb as there are plenty of hard-to-kill houseplants that can survive any level of neglect! And remember not only do houseplants look pretty, they also decrease stress and anxiety, increase happiness, and bring a sense of joy and relaxation to every room.

Houseplants make us feel better about ourselves in many ways because they allow us to care for them and we reap the rewards of that love. No one is alone when you have a houseplant, as they are our forever listeners. Yes, some people actually do talk with their houseplants all day long! There are

many science-based benefits to having houseplants in the home and office environment. Aside from reducing indoor air pollutants and increasing humidity in the home, house plants have been shown to reduce mental fatigue, accelerate the healing process, as well as improve productivity and focus.

Pothos, spider plants, lady palms, yucca, and succulents are so pretty and easy to grow. It is no wonder that we have seen a revival of indoor gardening trends.  Instagram is teeming with photos of incredible indoor “living green” vignettes that show us all how clever we can be when decorating with house plants! All you really need is to a pick a place in the home that has the best light and pick your plants.

Think outside of the box when it comes to decorating with houseplants. Look for underused spaces. Use mixed and matched pots of different sizes and shapes. Turn a shelf into a plant display. Go vertical with some hanging plants or an antique ladder. You can even group some of your favorite plants together into a single large decorative pot.

Signature large plant displays anchor the most well-designed rooms in America and it’s all there for us to look at, learn from, and bring into our own home. Whether combined into a single large decorative pot or clustered together in a corner, always remember the key to any house plant décor is to have a thriller, a tall plant usually with a strong color and form; filler plants that literally will fill the pot covering all the soil; and a spiller plant that trails over the edge of the pot. Try any combination of your favorite plants or a tried and true combination of a fiddle-leaf fig, a prayer plant, and a string of pearls.

No matter how you look at it, houseplants improve our lives in many ways. Indoor gardens provide us an alternative way to commune with nature and to reconnect with the living world. We all benefit from the additional life that houseplants bring into our homes. In this crazy world of ours, wouldn’t be it nice to return home to your own personal indoor greenspace.

Happy gardening!

KEY SECRETS FOR A SPARKLING HOME

A SPRING KIND OF CLEAN

TIP #1 Freshen up the Kitchen

A fresh, clean kitchen impacts the entire home. To freshen up the sink, Kim says, “Run hot water while pouring in equal parts of baking soda and white vinegar through the disposal. Follow with a few drops of blue Dawn Dishwashing soap to cut away any grease buildup. Sharpen the disposal blades by running cooler water and ice through it. For a fresh smell, grind a few slices of lemon, lime or orange, removing any seeds first.”

To clean everything else in the kitchen, including counters and stainless-steel appliances, use a microfiber cloth and a solution of 2-3 drops of Dawn mixed with water.

TIP #2 Spruce up the Living Room

The living room also deserves special attention. Kim says, “Start by pulling furniture away from the walls, vacuuming and dusting behind it. Make sure you dust air vents as well. Then, pull all of the furniture cushions off to vacuum underneath and in crevices. It’s always good to rotate and fluff cushions too.”

To banish dust from your furniture, Kim suggests using a good microfiber cloth that is slightly damp instead of furniture polish, which can leave a build-up on furniture that actually attracts dust.

TIP #3 Brighten up Windows

Brighten up your whole home by intentionally focusing on the windows. “Homeowners often forget about the inside of the window,” says Kim. “They dust the blinds or the shutters, but when the blinds are pulled up, the windows often have dust or a film on them.” Kim suggests cleaning the inside of the windows on a cloudy day to reduce streaks. “A good glass cleaner with a microfiber cloth works really well. If you still have streaks, try using a little bit of rubbing alcohol.”

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS MARCH 2025

events

MARCH 1ST

Porter High School Project Graduation 2025 Car Show

Porter High School - 22625 Sandy Lane, Porter, TX 77365 | 9:00 AM

Support Project Graduation while enjoying an amazing showcase of cars and community fun! Whether you're a car enthusiast or just looking for a great family outing, this event is for you. Saturday - 9AM - 2PM

MARCH 8TH

Montgomery County Market Days

Bull Sallas Park Show Barn - 21675 McCleskey Rd., New Caney, Texas 77357 | 9:00 AM

Join us for a weekend of open-air and indoor exploration, discovery, and celebration of local talent. Who knows, you might just find your new favorite treasure and forge lasting memories with loved ones along the way. See you at the market! Saturday - 9AM - 5PM and Sunday 10AM - 4PM

MARCH 9TH

The Atrium Center Open House

The Atrium Center - 21575 Hwy. 59, New Caney, TX 77357 | 2:00 PM

Explore our stunning venue with newly upgraded flooring, meet vendors, and envision your dream event. From weddings and Quinceañeras to birthdays and conventions, we’re here to make your celebration unforgettable. Don’t miss this joyous opportunity to plan your perfect event!

MARCH 22ND

Heavy Trash Day

Bull Sallas Park - 21675 McCleskey Rd., New Caney, TX 77357 | 8:00 AM

Bring your bulky trash items to Bull Sallas Park from 8AM-2PM! Free paper shredding will also be available.

MARCH 22ND

Next To Nowhere Pop Up Market

Back Pew Brewing - 26452 Sorters-McLellan Rd, Porter, TX 77365 | 12:00 PM

Looking for a day full of unique shopping, amazing finds, and great vibes? Come out and support local vendors at this fun and vibrant event! Let’s make this event unforgettable! Spread the word and invite your friends. See you there!

MARCH 29TH

10TH Annual Cody Bassett Bull Riding Memorial

Bull Sallas Park Fairgrounds - 21679 McCleskey Rd., New Caney, TX 77357 | 12:00 PM

Join us for the 10th Annual Cody Bassett Memorial Bull Riding! What to expect: Mutton Bustin’, Bull Riding, Invitational Jr Bulls, Free Style Bull Fighting, Live Auction, Mechanical Bull, Vendors & More! *Concert to follow rodeo with Patrick Murphy along with his son Maverick Murphy. Patrick was one of Cody’s favorite singers growing up. Closing the show will be Carson Jeffrey.

Our clients’ interests come first

What matters most to you matters to us.

We’ll help you identify and define your unique financial goals. And then we’ll tailor-build investment strategies that help you work toward those goals.

Our single focus is helping you achieve what’s most important. And you’ll be backed by our entire team each step of the way.

You can count on us.

Madison Duxbury, CFP®, CRPC™

Financial Advisor

21383 Valley Ranch Blvd, Suite 500

New Caney, TX 77357

281-358-2187

Jim Carranza, AAMS™

Financial Advisor

855 Rockmead Dr, Unit 405

Kingwood, TX 77339

281-359-7455

Cameron H Hayes, ChFC®, AAMS™, CRPC™

Financial Advisor

19701 Kingwood Dr, Bldg 1, Suite A

Kingwood, TX 77339

832-644-2117

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