PROSPER - Life & Luxury Magazine | March 2023

More Care and Wellness Where You Need It

At Texas Health Neighborhood Care & Wellness Prosper, we're proud to bring you more of the health care you need while keeping you close to home. With comprehensive, personalized care you and your family can count on, everything you need is right around the corner. That's how we care more.

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Publisher/Creative Director Jason Reynolds Jason@CedarbrookMedia.com

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ProsPer - Life & Luxury Magazine PO Box 405, Prosper, Texas 75078 972.347.6231 www.WeAreProsper.com

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Ethan, Tammy, Luke & Trinity Elliott

Photo by Contemporary Portraits

5 Sleep Habits Essential for Heart Health

In the days following a time change due to daylight saving time, research shows a marked increase in heart attacks and strokes. However, losing sleep anytime can be a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

“Getting a good night’s sleep every night is vital to cardiovascular health,” said Donald M. Lloyd-Jones, M.D., Sc.M., FAHA, past volunteer president of the American Heart Association and chair of the department of preventive medicine, the Eileen M. Foell Professor of Heart Research and professor of preventive medicine, medicine and pediatrics at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine. “Adults should aim for an average of 7-9 hours and babies and kids need more depending on their age. Unfortunately, we know as many as 1 in 3 people do not get their recommended amount of sleep each night.”

According to Lloyd-Jones, the amount of sleep and quality of sleep are important, and both can have significant impacts on cardiovascular health, as well as overall health. In addition to increasing risk for cardiovascular conditions like heart attack and stroke, lack of sleep may also put people at risk of things like depression, cognitive decline and obesity.

Research in the “Journal of the American Heart Association” shows maintaining a consistent sleep pattern may play an important role in preventing cardiovascular disease. Researchers found falling asleep at different times or sleeping an inconsistent number of hours each night, even variations of more than two hours a night within the same week, were tied to developing hardened arteries, known as atherosclerosis.

“We know people who get adequate sleep manage other health factors better as well, such as weight, blood sugar and blood pressure,” LloydJones said. “The American Heart Association recently added sleep to the list of factors that support optimal cardiovascular health. We call these Life’s Essential 8 and they include eating a healthy diet, not smoking or vaping, being physically active and getting adequate sleep, along with controlling your blood pressure and maintaining healthy levels of cholesterol and lipids, healthy blood sugar levels and a healthy weight.”

Consider these small changes in daily habits that can make a big difference in sleep quality:

Make healthy living a habit: Eat a balanced diet, get regular physical activity and manage stress to support a healthier night’s sleep.

Set the alarm for morning and night: Stick to specific times to go to bed and wake up each day and commit to a consistent sleep schedule as much as possible. Along with a wake-up alarm, try a bedtime alarm to indicate it’s time to start winding down.

Establish bedtime habits: Once your bedtime alarm goes off, move into a familiar ritual, like brushing your teeth, washing your face or taking a warm bath.

Relax and unwind: Take a few minutes to destress. Consider reading, journaling, meditating or listening to music to ease into a good night’s rest.

Take a technology break: A bedroom free of light and technology equates to better sleep, so keep your phone and other devices away from the bed. Try logging off your electronic devices at least an hour before bedtime.

Learn more about the importance of sleep for heart health at heart.org.

Dr. Mandy Cotten, DNP, APRN, FNP-C

Dr. Kylie Bunner, DNP, APRN, FNP-C

2022 Firefighter of the Year

DANNY SPRINGER

- This award is presented to the Firefighter who, in the eyes of their peers, has demonstrated outstanding service to the community through the execution of their duties as a firefighter in a manner that reflects credit upon all department personnel and for dedication above and beyond the call of duty. The individual has demonstrated the highest degree of participation in activities within their fire department. The individual has shown allegiance to their fire department and its firefighters and officers.

Danny Springer joined Prosper Fire Rescue in May 2021. Danny started his career in Monroe, Louisiana where is worked for just under 5 years and then was in Memphis for a short time before joining our family in Prosper.  Danny is happily married to his wife Ryane Springer and has three beautiful children, two girls and one boy with their 4th child on the way. Danny is a pleasure to be around and always has a smile on his face. His attitude and work ethic are contagious. We love having Danny in our Prosper Fire Rescue family.

2022 Officer of the Year - Captain Eric Morgan

2022 Driver Engineer of the Year - Driver Engineer Colby Rogers

2022 Firefighter of the Year - Firefighter Paramedic Danny Springer

2022 Rookie of the Year - Firefighter Paramedic Dylan Queen

2022 Paramedic of the Year - Firefighter Paramedic TJ King

T

T R A N S

s - p e r s o n a l t r a i n i n g t h a t p r o v i d e s a s t a t e - o f - t h e - a r t a l t e r n a t i v e t o m a s s m a r k e t e d g r o u p f i t n e s s b y d e s i g n i n g a p r o g r a m t h a t i s a s u n i q u e a s e a c h c l i e n t .

A t N e x G e n F i t n e s s , w e A R E p r i v a t e p e r s o n a l t r a i n i n g . T h e r e a r e n o s t r a n g e r s w a t c h i n g y o u s w e a t , n o w a i t i n g f o r e q u i p m e n t a n d n o w a s t e d t i m e .

A U N I Q U E C O N C E P T

The NexGen experience is nothing like you will find at a typical gym. There are no initiation fees or monthly dues, clients only pay for sessions with their trainer Sessions are trained in one of two private, fully equipped, personal training suites. NexGen truly offers clients the luxury training experience that you won't find anywhere else. With state-of-the-art equipment from Gronk Fitness Equipment, NexGen provides clients with the ultimate training experience. Owner and Founder, Bryan Whatley explains NexGen Fitness's unique concept, "There is no waiting for equipment because spots have been reserved for each individual or for them and a partner or a small group of up to four,” notes Bryan “Another advantage of coming to NexGen is avoiding the uncomfortable feeling that can be experienced at larger gyms. Here there is no need to feel self-conscious Our clients have a trainer by their side every step of the way, and training suites are never shared with other clients. Clients are also welcome to use the cardio equipment at the facility at their convenience for free."

F O R M I N G A

NexGen also offers the most advanced testing and nutritional guidance in the fitness industry. Clients even have the option to work one-on-one with NexGen's Registered Dietitian, providing them with a custom plan, guidance, and accountability to reach their goals. NexGen's priority is making sure clients have all the tools necessary to be successful. First, they perform an in-depth assessment to test the metabolic rate, body fat percentage, anaerobic threshold, strength, endurance and flexibility of each client. Next, they listen to client’s goals and challenges, formulating all of this into a plan designed to ensure they meet their individual goals

Whether your goal is weight loss, health improvements, sports training or rehabbing an injury, NexGen Fitness works with your specific situation Each personalized plan will incorporate all areas needed to succeed Bryan states, "Not only do our trainers provide unmatched workouts and accountability, but we also provide clients with a free personalized cardio program, and optional nutrition plans designed by a Registered Dietitian that are customized to fit food preferences or allergies.” In addition, NexGen provides a progressive training program, which means every eight weeks clients are reassessed and programs are adjusted to accommodate

improvements, thereby avoiding plateaus. “We also have many checks and balances to keep clients accountable,” Bryan says "A large part of our job is educating our clients, and of course providing accountability. Having an appointment with your trainer really holds clients accountable and keeps them consistent with their workouts.” With experienced, highly-trained personnel, individualized workout programs and a strong sense of community, NexGen Fitness has the tools, encouragement and accountability needed to transform the city of Prosper!

Good Taste

Eat the Rainbow:

Pair Seafood and Seasonal Produce for Colorful, Healthy Recipes

Focusing your menus on health-conscious recipes that look as good as they make you feel is key to making positive lifestyle changes. Adding big flavors that satisfy cravings to easy, go-to recipes can be a big step toward reaching health goals throughout the year. “Eating the rainbow” refers to adding fruits and veggies of varying colors to your diet, such as red tomatoes and beets, green cucumbers and avocados, orange carrots and pumpkins and beyond. Complementing fresh produce with the nutritional benefits of tuna and salmon – like heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, protein, vitamin D and potassium – can take your meal planning one step further.

Whether you’re commemorating a special occasion, hosting a gathering of friends and family or simply enjoying a night in, good food shouldn’t mean ditching good eating habits. With new packaging but a continued focus on flavor, wild-caught Low-Sodium Pink Salmon from Chicken of the Sea is a perfect complement to vibrant, rainbow-inspired recipes.

Try these Salmon Chili Bites for a quick and delicious snack option. They can easily be doubled, tripled or more for a party appetizer. Feature the recipe with a “rainbow” of veggies, crackers, meats and cheeses on a charcuterie board for a crowd favorite that can satisfy guests with big, bold flavor. Ditch boring salads and find joy in food while maintaining healthy eating goals by upping your salad game. Say goodbye to bland, boring greens and enjoy salads with your favorite toppings, like a colorful combination of protein-packed tuna and fiber-rich veggies in this Mediterranean Tuna Salad, which is completed with a bright dressing and topped with feta cheese and parsley.

For more than 100 years, Chicken of the Sea has provided fresh, tasty seafood straight from the ocean, so whether you’re reaching for wild-caught tuna for this homemade salad or another option like salmon or sardines, you can enjoy a high-quality product that’s delicious on its own or used to elevate favorite recipes.

To find more health-focused snacks, appetizers, meals and more, visit chickenofthesea.com

MEDITERRANEAN TUNA SALAD

Dressing:

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

1/4 teaspoon dried oregano

Salad:

1 can (5 ounces) Chicken of the Sea Chunk Light

Tuna, drained

1 cup halved cherry tomatoes

1/3 cup sliced Kalamata olives

1 cup chopped English cucumber (about 1/2 cucumber)

1/4 cup feta

1 tablespoon minced parsley

Pita chips (optional)

Crackers (optional)

To make dressing: In large bowl, whisk lemon juice, olive oil and oregano.

To make salad: In dressing bowl, add tuna, tomatoes, olives and cucumber. Gently toss to cover salad with dressing then top with feta and parsley.

Serve with pita chips or crackers, if desired.

SALMON CHILI BITES

2 pouches (2.5 ounces each) Chicken of the Sea Low Sodium Wild-Caught Alaska Pink Salmon

1 tablespoon chili crisp

2 teaspoons rice wine vinegar

1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil

2 bell peppers, cored and cut into 2-inch squares

1 green onion, thinly sliced

Minced cilantro

Black sesame seeds

In bowl, combine salmon, chili crisp, vinegar and sesame oil.

To serve, top each bell pepper square with some salmon, green onion, cilantro and sesame seeds. If leftover pieces of bell pepper remain, chop and add as additional garnish.

Note: If serving with cheese plate, place salmon mixture in small bowl and garnish with green onion and sesame seeds.

Enhance Your Home’s Style with Stone

One essential step in planning a home renovation is choosing the right materials. Natural and textured walls continue to be trendy choices, and many building pros and homeowners are gravitating toward stone siding to add comfort, character, and beauty.

Panelized stone siding offers the look and feel of natural stone and manufactured stone veneer, but in a panelized format that can be installed with screws. With a wide range of exterior and interior applications, panelized stone siding can complement almost any home style. On the exterior, in particular, stone siding can boost curb appeal and provide a multi-textured facade with a solid return on investment.

Although stone veneer, or manufactured stone, is commonly used on home exteriors, indoor applications are gaining popularity as homeowners are increasingly interested in bringing natural elements inside.

Given its design flexibility, ease of installation and affordability, the experts at Westlake Royal Building Products recommend manufactured stone siding as an ideal option for interior and exterior applications like these:

Siding

If you love the look of natural stone but want a more affordable option, panelized stone siding offers an authentic look and simple application with a cutting and installation process similar to traditional siding panels. Some homeowners choose to mix stone with other exterior materials to create a one-of-a-kind appearance. For example, adding manufactured stone siding alongside existing brick or vinyl siding can infuse visual texture, dimension, and impact. Complementing colors can provide a more balanced, traditional look while contrasting colors present as modern and bold.

Entryways

Wrapping columns with panelized stone can make your home’s entrance a focal point, adding curb appeal and creating a welcoming effect.

Accent Walls

Panelized stone siding can also be used to elongate the appearance of a wall while bringing texture and contrast into the home. Warmer tones can make the space more inviting and cozier while cooler hues can bring a modern, industrial feel.

Fireplaces

Manufactured stone siding makes it easy to give a fireplace a facelift or make it a focal

point, changing the look and feel of a room. Available in a variety of colors, textures and shapes, it can elevate your living room’s style and create a more inviting area.

An affordable option like Versetta Stone panelized stone siding from Westlake Royal Building Products provides the beauty of hand-laid stone with virtually undetectable joints and seams for world-class design featuring timeless colors and textures, natural shapes, and hand-crafted details. It’s a practical choice for experienced DIYers since there’s no need for mortar. What’s more, the tongue-and-groove interlocking system can be installed in any weather.

Learn how panelized stone siding can bring your vision to life at VersettaStone.com

How Manufactured Stone Siding Stacks Up

If you have your heart set on a design that incorporates stone materials, you may be surprised to learn how manufactured stone siding outperforms some natural products.

Affordability – Manufactured stone siding resembles natural stone but for a fraction of the cost. Not only are natural stones more expensive than manufactured stone, but since they are heavier, they also cost more to transport.

Easy Installation – Manufactured stone siding is lighter than natural stone and is available in a familiar panelized format, making it easier and faster to install. Unlike natural stone, panelized stone siding doesn’t require structural supports like footings or tie-ins. No specialty masonry tools are required.

Low Maintenance – Long lasting and durable, manufactured stone siding requires little maintenance after installation. Many panelized stone siding options are resistant to water, fire and extreme temperatures, standing up to years of weathering with little change in color.

Design Flexibility – Unlike real stone, manufactured stone siding allows more control over design factors like color consistency and texture. You can choose from a wide range of design styles, making it easy to infuse your personality into your home.

Let’s Fix That Neglected Side Yard

Side yards that are long and narrow present a design challenge. Are you, yourself struggling with this challenge? Do you need some landscaping ideas to help you out? If so, begin by asking yourself a couple of questions about your side yard:

How often do you use the area as an important route for getting from point A to point B on your property?

Is the area wide enough to contain a planting bed as well as a walkway or pathway?

Deciding on a Walkway or Pathway for Your Side Yard

Do you often find yourself cutting through the side yard in question (i.e., the left side yard or the right side yard) on a practical mission? For example, if you had to push a garden cart filled with mulch from the backyard to the front yard, would you tend to cut through this particular area? If so, it behooves you to build a no-nonsense walkway through the area, a surface you won’t be tripping on.

A flagstone walkway, for instance, will provide a nice, even surface. Other materials that yield a smooth and stable surface include:

Paving Bricks

Concrete Pavers

Decomposed Granite

A wide, attractive walkway running up and down a narrow side yard can also serve a function similar to that of a patio or sitting area.

But if, by contrast, you do not cut through the area very often, you have some less formal (also less expensive and easier) options at your disposal. For example, you could lay down garden stepping stones to create an informal path that winds its way through the side yard. Curved

pathways are more attractive than straight ones (a straight path will reinforce aesthetically how tunnel-like the side yard is, which is precisely what you wish to avoid) and are a good choice where aesthetic concerns are paramount. Plant a ground cover such as creeping thyme between the stepping stones, to add visual interest.

Alternatively, you may choose not to have a well-defined path, at all. You can suppress weed plants in the area by laying down weed fabric, covered by shredded cedar mulch.

Important Note: Ring the Call Before You Dig phone number (for Texas call 811 on your cell phone or 1-800-344-8377 from any landline phone) before plunging that shovel into the ground! They’ll make sure you’re not going to be severing any cables, etc.

Planting in Your Side Yard

If you have sufficient room in your side yard, you will most likely wish to install plants there, to add visual interest to the space. Using container gardens or a raised bed eliminates having to dig into the soil, but let’s assume that you will be installing your plants in the ground.

The first thing to do is to determine whether the side yard is mainly sunny or mainly shady. Then, when you’re researching your possible plant choices, be careful to note whether they are sun-loving plants or shade-tolerant plants. The preferences of the plant, rather than your own preferences, must take precedence over what you think looks good there!

If you’re planning on covering the ground with a weed fabric and mulch (as mentioned above), a low-maintenance planting option is to “pocket plant” with shrubs. For each shrub, make an incision in the weed fabric just big enough to insert your root ball.

Features to Consider for Side Yards

Consider building a small water fountain for your side yard. The look and sound of water has a unique ability to enliven a space.

A long, narrow side yard can have an oppressive feel to it. What can you do? Break up the expanse with an object upon which the eye can rest, for relief. One possible object to use for this purpose is a garden arbor. While such a structure can serve an aesthetic purpose even in a large side yard, an arbor will be especially helpful in improving the design in a small side while adding comfort as well. Enhance the arbor’s beauty by training vines upon it. Again, consider your light conditions before choosing your vines.

Side-Yard Choices: A Summary

Essentially, you have 3 design choices for relatively narrow side yards:

You can opt for a walkway or pathway, without planting beds (except perhaps for annual plants or small perennial flowers), if the space is really tight.

If there’s sufficient room, you can have both, with the path or walkway bordered by plants on each side of it.

Or you needn’t have a well-defined path or walkway at all.

In case #3 above just makes sure that, if you grow plants in the space, you leave yourself enough room to walk freely amongst them not just for functional purposes but for maintenance reasons also.

Question: Jimmie, can you please tell me what the small Tree is that blooms Hot Pink late winter or early spring? I see them driving around and they are so beautiful! I want one!! - Barbara T. in Celina

Answer: Hello Barbara! I believe you’re referring to a Redbud Tree, and I agree! They are very eye catching! They actually come in several different varieties. It is a very nice ornamental anchor tree that does very well here in our climate zone. The hands down favorite is the Oklahoma Redbud. The weeping varieties are also really nice to design in strategic spots! Until next time, Happy Gardening!

What Colors Go Well Together: The Secrets to Color Matching

Are you ready for a fashion truth bomb? You may be playing it safe when it comes to wearing color. Pairing hues is a part of everyday life, especially when deciding what to wear in the morning. Don’t restrict your closet to a confined color scheme when there is a plethora of pretty colors you could be adding to your wardrobe rotation. Ladies, have you ever wondered what colors work well together? If so, you’re not alone. Color matching your clothing may seem like a big mystery, but it doesn’t have to be. That’s where we come in…we’ve done our fair share of sartorial sleuthing and have answers for your most-perplexing color quandaries. So, buckle up—there’s a world of color out there and it’s time for you to explore it.

Did you know that colors have the power to evoke strong emotions?

It’s true—color psychology is a real thing. Let’s dive into a hypothetical situation. Imagine you’re preparing to speak in front of a large audience. Now think about the message you’d like to convey to your listeners through your outfit choice. Wearing cool tones can elicit a sense of peace and tranquility, while warm hues can energize a crowd. It’s also important to take into consideration which colors look best on you. With that being said, color is a powerful tool for expressing your truest self. Wondering where to even begin? Keep reading for a no-fail starting point on what colors go well together with the basics of color theory.

What Color Combinations Work Best with Pastels and Brights?

When it comes to adding color to women’s wardrobes, pretty pastels and bold brights get the job done. Typically, these lively hues are what we think of when we’re looking to make an outfit really pop. When deciphering what colors go well together, these striking shades can be the most persnickety of the bunch. Yes, there’s definitely a way to overdo it on the neon’s and head-to-toe pastels may wash you out. It’s all about balance, and we’re happy to guide you to the ultimate equilibrium of color.

What Colors Go with Pink?

Style alert—all tints of pink and blue go well together as long as they have complementary tones. If you were ever curious about what colors go with pink, there’s your answer. Are you a gal who loves different shades of mauve, blush, or hot pink? We encourage you to have fun with this one. For a bold and brilliant combo, opt for a rich cobalt and fuchsia. For a softer feel, try pairing baby pink and cornflower blue. Embrace the cottage-core trend in a midi dress with puff sleeves in a barely-there blue hue with ditsy pink flowers. Lastly, you can’t go wrong by pairing blue jeans with virtually any shade of pink. Keep your look trend-forward with wide-leg denim and square-toe heels. You’ll look pretty in pink in no time.

What Colors Go Well Together: Shades of Purple and Grey

Are you trying to decide what color matches with purple? Look no further than an expansive range of grey shades. Lavender and light grey is a tone-on-tone color combination that is both smart and serene. Try a sharp sheath dress with lavender slingbacks and you’ll instantly look like a fashionista who knows what they’re doing. For a sparkly twist, add a touch of silver in your jewelry. Do you prefer your outfits to pack a punch? Say goodbye to subdued and hello to standout ensembles with grape and darker greys like charcoal and pewter. The balance of the deeper grey will act as a neutral foundation for bright purple to stand on its own.

Stay tuned for the April issue, where we highlight more secrets to Color Matching! Thank you to Jenny Beltran and Jessica Glass from Stitch Fix for their contribution to this month’s Fashion section!

Solo Travel Tips: 7 Recommendations for Venturing Out Alone

Whether you’re a lone wolf at heart or looking to broaden your sense of independence, traveling solo can be a richly empowering and satisfying experience. Setting out on your own has many practical advantages. You’re not worrying about accommodating another’s schedule, interest or needs, and you’re free to decide what you want to do and when. Solo travel also elicits some mental and emotional benefits, as you experience a unique sense of freedom, liberation and self-sufficiency. If you’re considering a solo journey, consider these tips from the book “101+ Tips for Solo Women Travelers,” which is offered by Overseas Adventure Travel in free digital and print editions.

Make Sure Your Passport is Updated

Many countries now require your passport to be valid for six months after your return to the United States. If you don’t have a passport, or need to renew one, apply for one as soon as possible. Ideally you should have your application in six months before you depart.

Look for Trips with No Single Supplement

Often, quoted rates are “per person, based on double occupancy.” This is because travel hosts know they can make more from a couple traveling than an individual. You can avoid paying a single supplement premium by being willing to match with a roommate or traveling with a tour company or cruise line with free or low-cost single supplement fees.

Use the ATM

As an affordable and convenient way to get cash, you can avoid wasting time in line at a bank or currency exchange bureau by visiting an ATM. While you’ll likely incur a fee for using an ATM that’s not part of your bank, it is often less than the commission you’d pay at an exchange bureau.

Plus, you can avoid additional fees by calculating how much you’ll need for the trip and making one withdrawal as opposed to multiple smaller withdrawals.

Download Entertainment Before You Leave

When traveling, Wi-Fi can be expensive, slow or just not available. Before you leave, download music, e-books, podcasts, favorite tv shows or movies to enjoy while you’re en route or during down time.

Join Group Tours

Once you reach your destination, you may enjoy joining small groups for excursions or to explore local cuisine. Or you can make your entire journey a group experience. A small group adventure with Overseas Adventure Travel has many benefits, and built-in dining companions is just one of them.

Take Precautions in Your Hotel Room

When you check in, ask the receptionist to write your room number down instead of announcing it so everyone can hear. Make sure your room’s locks work on both the door into the hallway and the balcony. Never let any repair person or staff member into your room without confirming with the front desk first. Bring a rubber doorstop, which makes a hotel room door nearly impossible to open. Finally, have an exit plan: Know where the nearest exit is located and the route from your room.

Make New Friends

For some, making friends seems to happen naturally while traveling alone by chatting with strangers at a neighboring restaurant table or striking up a conversation while waiting in line at a store. If those situations don’t occur naturally, there are useful apps that can connect you with local people as well as fellow travelers.

Find more tips to prepare for your journey at oattravel.com

Sniffles, surgeries, sing-alongs

More than care. Connection.

Hello, neighbor! We want you to know that we’re all in this together. Because “together” is the best way to shape treatment plans made just for your child––ones that are built by a team of doctors, families and patients. That’s what it means to deliver care that connects.