PROSPER - Life & Luxury Magazine | October 2021 by Cedarbrook Media Group, LLC

P rosper Prosper’s Community Magazine Since 2012 October 2021 | Issue 123 WeAreProsper.com

Life & Luxury Magazine™

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Caring for kids is an art Top-notch pediatric health care options are now available close to home. Specialty care in your region: • • • • • • • •

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Mercy, 7 Cook Children’s patient

What’s Inside Family 8

Decorate Your Way To A Howling Good Halloween

Tips for Carving the Perfect Pumpkin

5 Tips to Safely Celebrate Halloween with Your Pets

Life & Luxury Magazine™

2021 | Issue 123 Publisher Heather Reynolds Heather@CedarbrookMedia.com Creative Director Jason Reynolds Jason@CedarbrookMedia.com Director of Sales & Marketing Mark Mattison Mark@CedarbrookMedia.com

Community 14

Prosper Town Council Adopts FY 2021-2022 Budget

Prosper ISD News: Makayla’s Fight

P rosper

Yoga and Mimosas for Breast Cancer

Homefront 20

3 Rooms Perfect For Adding Focal Points

Home Cleaning Hacks for Fall

Thinking Of A Nice Fall Container For Your Home?

In Good Taste

Photography Jason Reynolds - Cedarbrook Media Group www.CedarbrookMedia.com Production/Design Cedarbrook Media Group, LLC Design@CedarbrookMedia.com Editorial Please send editorial considerations to Editor@CedarbrookMedia.com PROSPER - Life & Luxury Magazine PO Box 405, Prosper, Texas 75078 972.347.6231 www.LifeAndLuxuryMagazine.com Advertising Information For media kits, contact Advertising at

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Contributing Writers Heather Reynolds | Natalie Tuman | Dr. Holly Ferguson Jimmie Gibson | Stacy Cate 6 | WeAreProsper.com

PROSPER Life & Luxury Magazine is wholly owned and published by Cedarbrook Media Group, LLC. PROSPER Life & Luxury Magazine is published 12 times a year. No portion of this publication may be reproduced or copied whole or in part without expressed written permission from the publisher, Cedarbrook Media Group, LLC. ©2020. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. The title and all material are protected by international copyright laws and are reserved. Although the greatest of care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this magazine at time of going to press, neither PROSPER Life & Luxury Magazine nor Cedarbrook Media Group, LLC can be held liable for omissions, inexactness or errors.

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Life & Luxury Magazine Family

DECORATE YOUR WAY TO A HOWLING GOOD HALLOWEEN Costumes and candy may be mainstays of Halloween, but decorating is a fun way to set the mood and add a little extra excitement in the weeks leading up to the holiday. These spooktacular ideas can help dial up the drama and delight for all ages. PUMPKINS APLENTY A traditional glowing jack-o’-lantern may be one of Halloween’s most recognized icons, but pumpkins can be used in plenty of other fun ways. You can dress them up with glitter and ribbon for a more elegant look or group a series of pumpkins in varied shapes and colors for a seasonal centerpiece. You can even give a pumpkin a coat of chalkboard paint and count down the days until Halloween. CREEPY KIDS’ CRAFTS Get little ghosts and goblins into the Halloween spirit with hand-made decorations that make your seasonal decor equal parts sweet and spooky. Fold a black piece of construction paper down the middle and trace a child’s hand and wrist, with the wrist extending over the folded edge. Cut along the traced line, leaving the fold intact, and when you unfold the paper, you’ll have a bat to decorate. Add eyes and attach string to the top of the wings to hang and display.

8 | WeAreProsper.com

GROSS AND GHOULISH Some of the best Halloween displays have something in common: attention to detail. Get creative with your props and decorations to incorporate some unexpected attention-grabbers like brains in a jar. Place bunches of cauliflower in a clear glass container and cover with water died red. SPOOKY SERVING If you’re entertaining for Halloween, incorporate spooky decor with your food and drinks to keep the theme going throughout the party. Use cauldrons as serving bowls and skeleton hands as serving spoons. Add plenty of cobwebs and other spooky accents to the table, and search for easy recipes that fit your theme. One fun idea for kids is baking sugar cookies in fun Halloween shapes and serving them with a selection of food-safe syringes pre-filled with colored frosting. GHOSTLY GREETINGS All the tricks and treats indoors make for plenty of good spirit, but don’t forget to set the scene outside, too. Dressing up your front door lets visitors know they’re in for a real treat. A haunted graveyard scene or a spooky spider den with lots of critters dangling from fake cobwebs are sure to show all who dare to enter that a howling good time lies ahead. Find more frightfully fun ideas to make your home Halloween ready at eLivingtoday.com.

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Life & Luxury Magazine Family

Tips for Carving the Perfect Pumpkin Halloween is fast approaching, and along with that, comes the fun your family can enjoy with decorating for the season. Regardless of how big you go with your spooky decorations, the one tried and true piece that you just can’t leave out is a jack-o-lantern on your front porch! Whether this is your first or twentieth time in doing this activity with your children, here are a few tips to make the activity fun and easy! Pick the Right Pumpkin Not all pumpkins are created equal, especially when it comes to carving jack-o-lanterns. A solid pumpkin with no bruising or soft spots will result in a solid jack-o-lantern. Look for one with a long stem, as that will make it easier to take the lid on and off after you’ve carved it. Also look for a flat bottom so that he stays put! Another fun idea to add character to your spooky friend is to select a pumpkin that already has lots of character. An elongated pumpkin is perfect for a laughing face, while a short, fat pumpkin is better for a goofy and toothy grin. Bumps on the skin can also turn into a crooked nose or a wart on his chin! Hats Off Removing the top of your pumpkin is an integral part of carving the perfect pumpkin. Cut at an angle so that you can easily pop the top back on without it falling into the abyss of your jack-o-lantern.

10 | WeAreProsper.com

Remove the Pulp If you have an ice cream scoop, this is the time to shine! Otherwise, a big ol’ spoon will do the trick to remove the seeds and stringy flesh from inside of the pumpkin. Get as much pulp out as you can so that the pumpkin will be easy and clean to carve. Also, don’t forget to keep the seeds for roasting later! For a healthy snack later, boil them in salted water for 10 minutes, then toast them in the over with a little bit of olive oil until they are golden brown. Map Out your Face Design Good planning perfects your pumpkin. Roughly sketch the face of your dreams on your pumpkin before digging in. Use a water-based temporary felt-tip marker for your initial sketching. Draw out the eyes and nose and overdo the features. A large flat nose will show out better than a small one. Play with it until you are satisfied with the design, then go back over the sketch with a permanent marker. You can also print a template out and stick it on the pumpkin so that you know where to cut it. Try to use as many straight lines as you can, since those tend to be easier and cleaner to cut. Be Safe When lighting up your spooky friend, try using several tealight candles rather than a large one so that your pumpkin can shine safely all night. The tealights work best for the traditional spooky flickering look. However, if you choose to go with the traditional larger candle, be sure to cut a small hole in the top for drafting! Make sure there isn’t anything flammable above your candle when you put the pumpkin into place. Another idea is to use battery operated tealights to eliminate the risk of setting fire to anything.

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WeAreProsper.com | 11

Life & Luxury Magazine Family

5 Tips to Safely Celebrate Halloween with Your Pets Whether heading to a party, celebrating on social media or greeting little ghouls and goblins at home, getting the entire family – including the four-legged family members – involved in the Halloween festivities can be the biggest treat of all. However, it’s important to take some precautions to avoid spooking your pets, particularly if you’ll be dressing them for the occasion. In addition to keeping your pets out of the candy bowl and tempering their excitement during all the hustle and bustle, keep these tips from PetSmart’s resident veterinarian and pet care expert, Dr. Jennifer Freeman, DVM, in mind to ensure your pets are comfortable in their costumes so they’re able to celebrate stress-free. TAKE BABY STEPS Start by trying a simple accessory, like a bandana, on your pets. See if they allow this and will walk around with it on for a few minutes. Not all pets like wearing clothes and some may become stressed or agitated while wearing a costume. However, many just need a little coaxing and positive reinforcement, such as praise and a treat. REWARD WITH SOMETHING TASTY After you put the apparel or costume on your pets, reward them with their favorite treat to create a positive association between wearing the costume and getting a treat. 12 | WeAreProsper.com

ENSURE THE COSTUME IS SAFE Once you know your pets are comfortable in a costume, it’s important to ensure the outfit allows them to walk, bark, meow and see without difficulty. Additionally, if your pets can easily trip over their legs, try another type of clothing. Make sure there aren’t any accessories attached that may be easy for them to chew on or swallow. CONSIDER THE WEATHER Pets can overheat easily, so ensure their clothing is not too bulky or heavy if it is warm on Halloween. Watch for elastic features around the paw area that may be restrictive and be certain there is enough room around the widest area of the chest to allow for proper air flow and ventilation. KEEP AN EYE ON BODY LANGUAGE Pets often communicate through body language and their behavior may let you know if they’re stressed or uncomfortable. Pay extra attention to your costumed pets’ body language while attending parties or events and watch for signs of discomfort such as pacing, hiding or refusing to move. For more tips and tricks for keeping your pets safe this Halloween, as well as ideas for seasonal costumes, toys and treats, visit PetSmart.com.

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Life & Luxury Magazine Community

Prosper Town Council Adopts FY 2021-2022 Budget After thorough review and discussion by Town staff, council and public input, the Prosper Town Council adopted the 2021-2022 budget during Tuesday’s Council Meeting. The adopted budget will become effective beginning October 1. The grand total of all budgeted expenditures for FY 2021-2022 is $119,476,797. The FY 2021-2022 adopted Budget addresses increased levels of service to residents in response to continued growth, provides required or recommended capital investments in infrastructure and other public improvements as well as additional public safety resources. Budget highlights include no increase in utility rates for Town customers, continued growth in property tax and sales tax revenue, and continued staff, facility, and equipment additions to public safety. Tax Rate The Town Council set an adopted tax rate of $0.51 cents per $100 valuation. This marks the first time in fifteen years the Town has lowered the current property tax rate. “The growth in property values has allowed us to accelerate the 2020 Bond Program while still avoiding the projected tax rate increase we had previously anticipated. The fact that we have been able to hold the line on the tax rate with no increase over the past 15 years is a testament to the commitment of the Town’s financial accountability” said Town Manager Harlan Jefferson. The total tax rate has been reduced by 1 cent which means a new lower Maintenance and Operations tax rate of $.3280. The remaining $.1820 tax rate will be used to fund the Town’s debt service. 14 | WeAreProsper.com

Public Safety Public safety compensation, infrastructure and equipment are other items included in this year’s adopted budget. The adopted budget includes a 5% market adjustment in addition to the 3% annual step increase for all sworn Public Safety personnel – an increase from the original proposed budget. Accelerated Capital Improvement Program (CIP) An accelerated CIP program was adopted which will include an additional $5.3 million to be used from the General Fund Balance to move forth key projects. Residential Tax Exemptions In addition to the 1 cent reduction in the property tax rate, residents are reminded of the additional tax relief opportunities for homeowners. A 10% residential homestead exemption was adopted by the Town Council in 2017. Residents who are 65+ or disabled are eligible for a property tax freeze, which protects them from future property tax increases. For more information about the homestead exemption or how to freeze your property taxes, please contact your local Central Appraisal District. The state also offers other exemptions for disabled people, disabled veterans, and others. Visit the State of Texas Comptroller’s Office website for more information and assistance.

20th Anniversary 9/11 Ceremony at Children’s Health Stadium WeAreProsper.com | 15

Life & LuxuryISD Magazine Prosper News

From the Desk of Dr. Holly Ferguson

Makayla’s Fight “Sometimes in tragedy, we find our life’s purpose.” The Prosper community felt a jolt in late September through a tragedy involving one of our own. Prosper High School student, Makayla Noble, suffered spinal cord damage during a backyard tumbling accident. In a split second, life changed for Makayla. The change was embraced and felt by all in the Prosper Community and so many around the globe. Many times, we will talk about the power of one, and Makayla is indeed that person. Her positive energy and outlook on life took hold on so many through this tragedy. Although devastation was felt by many, the power of one…Makayla took hold and began impacting an entire community. The community turned The Town of Prosper purple. Ribbons, t-shirts, signs, and Children’s Health Stadium turned purple in honor of Makayla and her favorite color. Through all these acts of kindness and support, I felt what I have always believed about the Prosper Community. This community has a strong and undeniable ability to come together and support like never seen before. This is a gift, and a true blessing that only Prosper can do together. One of our parents said it best, “This is WHY we moved to Prosper!” Well said, well said. The journey ahead for Makayla will be full of challenges and ups and downs. My challenge to each of you is to keep the faith and continue to lift Makayla and her family up as the days, months, and years begin to pass. Makayla is a strong young lady with a heart of gold, but it will take ongoing belief and support to climb the mountain that is ahead. If you are looking for ways to support Makayla and her family, please feel free to visit Makayla’s Fight at gofundme.com. We are Prosper! We are one!

Dr. Holly Ferguson Prosper ISD Superintendent 16 | WeAreProsper.com

WeAreProsper.com | 17

Life & Luxury Magazine Community

Yoga and Mimosas

n 2018, Natalie Tuman of Prosper, Texas was diagnosed with Stage 3 Invasive Ductal Carcinoma. The support she received from her local community was unequivocally life giving to her and her family. From meals to play dates to prayer and more, it was never a battle she faced alone. One such token of support was an event that her friends organized. It was a paid Yoga event held at a local gathering spot, Silo Park. Food trucks and vendors donated their earnings, a live Yoga session was offered, and the list goes on. People came out in droves to donate to the cause and it was a life changing moment for Natalie and her family. In 2019, it was her turn to give back. Natalie decided to take what she had been blessed with and pay it forward to another woman. Using the same venue and concept, she hosted Yoga and Mimosas for Breast Cancer or #YomosasForBC! This event not only offered her a great distraction from the day-to-day struggles of recovery, but it blessed another woman in the local community battling breast cancer. Building on the momentum of paying it forward, the Tuman Breast Cancer Foundation was formed in 2021. Loving on women where they are, the Tuman Breast Cancer Foundation exists to financially and emotionally assist women in our local communities throughout their breast cancer journey. When a woman is fighting breast cancer, there are a lot of needs outside of treatment that they require. Tuman Breast Cancer Foundation has partnered with local businesses and individuals to provide several services like:

Financial assistance to help meet insurance deductibles Meals for the family when she is in bed sick from treatment

Transportation for her children when she’s not able to take them to school or practices House Cleaning while she’s under the weather

Yard maintenance so that the family can focus on the fight instead of chores Laundry assistance when she lacks the energy to make it out of her bedroom Massage to work out the soreness from the muscle and bone pain

If you know of a woman in Prosper ISD currently fighting breast cancer, please visit www.tumanbreastcancer.org to nominate her to receive support from Tuman Breast Cancer Foundation. You can also purchase a personalized Breast Cancer Support yard sign from Collin County Yard Greetings! Every sign purchased by October 18 will be on display at the YomosasForBC event being held on October 24 at Silo Park. After the event, the signs will be given back to those who purchased them so that you can display them every October in support of your loved one! All proceeds go to Tuman Breast Cancer Foundation to help love on women where they are! https://collincountyyardgreetings. com/product/tuman-breast-cancer-foundation-sign/ Small town, Big heart has never been more relevant!! “Perhaps this is the moment for which you were created” Esther 4:14 Tuman Breast Cancer Foundation EIN 86-2404136

18 | WeAreProsper.com

for Breast Cancer presented by

WeAreProsper.com | 19

Life & Luxury Magazine Homefront

3 ROOMS PERFECT FOR ADDING FOCAL POINTS You don’t have to be a design expert to create an inviting living space, but with some simple tricks, you can create a home that looks like it’s been styled by a pro. One way to make a room feel more inviting and comfortable is identifying a focal point to anchor the decor and create a natural, beautiful flow. Without a focal point, a space can feel awkward and disjointed. These inspirational ideas for using focal points in three popular living spaces can add comfort and beauty that makes you feel right at home.

LIVING ROOM The main function of a fireplace is to provide warmth, but it’s also a perfect element to use to create a focal point that exudes comfort and style. Make your fireplace stand out while also adding an intimate touch by using brick or stone. As an alternative, you can accent a fireplace with a bold wall treatment. Floor to ceiling brick or stone converts an average wall into an eyecatching focal point, giving a room a natural, yet striking, edge. From handmade to glazed bricks and everything in between, GlenGery’s line of more than 600 brick and stone products offers a diverse array of colors, textures and sizes, providing homeowners the ability to emphasize their focal points while also reflecting their desired design aesthetic. BATHROOM

KITCHEN As the heart of the home, the kitchen deserves special attention to make it a welcoming space where you can enjoy spending time. Depending on your design, you’ll discover there are numerous ways to incorporate a focal point in a kitchen, whether it’s bold cabinetry, an island featuring a natural stone countertop or stand-out appliances that make a statement. The wall space is also a smart place to draw visual attention. An accent wall is an option if you have the space, but the backsplash is another spot where you can make a big impact.

20 | WeAreProsper.com

It may be one of the smallest living spaces in a home, but the bathroom sees enough traffic that it’s worth making it a visually appealing place to be. Even with a diminutive footprint, the bathroom presents numerous options for a focal point, from an intricate wall material to vibrant lighting fixtures and everything in between. Given their relative size, the shower or tub may be a practical focal point; the vanity offers similar appeal. If you prefer a scaled but equally impactful approach, consider highlighting a smaller element, like a stunning vessel sink, or an unexpected element such as a brick or stone accent wall. Find more ideas to suit your style at glengery.com.

CREATE A LOOK THAT’S UNIQUELY YOU Your home, and more specifically its style, should be a reflection of your personality. Consider a few ways to get started: Set the mood Give careful consideration to the overall mood and atmosphere you want to create for your home, both inside and out. Consider contrasting options like a sleek modern masterpiece or a relaxing coastalinspired sanctuary. Weighing these kinds of options helps point you in the right direction to find the perfect color scheme and textures. Mood-board magic Look to magazines and online resources like social media and design blogs for ideas and styles that resonate with you. Browse freely and dream big at first but be sure to review regularly to identify a common denominator. Ultimately this can help you articulate exactly what you want. You can also explore how different products work in your home by using a virtual designer, such as Glen-Gery’s Picture Perfect. The real deal To get a real-life feel for your new space, visit model homes and design centers, and look closely and critically at the colors and materials used. This can provide a tangible sense of how those styles may work in your home.

Local Expertise Innovative Approach Real Integrity STACY CATE

WeAreProsper.com | 21

Life & Luxury Magazine Homefront

Home Cleaning Hacks for Fall Cooler fall temperatures mean you’re likely to spend more time indoors. Taking time to spruce up inside and out can make you more comfortable and give you peace of mind that your home is tidy, clean and prepared to weather the months ahead. Tidy Outdoor Spaces Before stashing your lawn care equipment, give your home and landscape some end-of-season attention. Use a power washer to clean lawn furniture and store it away from the elements or use covers to protect it. Clean out gutters and remove debris from flower beds to encourage proper drainage. Check for Repair Projects Give your home a thorough inspection to identify any problems that need attention before cold weather sets in. Look for concerns like loose shutters or siding, cracked or loose shingles, cracks and gaps around doors and windows that may allow moisture or cold air to creep in. Severe weather and cycles of freezing and thawing can exacerbate these problems, so it’s best to make repairs before they result in major damage. Eliminate Dirt and Dust Moving indoors, take time to remove any dirt and grime that has accumulated. Wash textiles like curtains and rugs. Wipe down kitchen and bathroom surfaces with an antibacterial solution. Dust other parts of the house, including blinds, windowsills, baseboards and other hardto-reach places. 22 | WeAreProsper.com

When it comes to vacuuming, make sure to keep floors clean and free of outside dirt all season long with an all-around cleaner that can vacuum and mop simultaneously, like the DEEBOT OZMO T8 AIVI. It provides convenient, efficient, hands-free cleaning you can control via smart home devices. With a built-in HD camera, the AI-powered robot identifies common household obstacles and intelligently determines how to clean around them, while also providing on-demand home monitoring. Complete with laser mapping and navigation technology to scan and map your floors for faster cleaning and fewer missed spots, it is also compatible with an optional, automatic emptying station that allows for up to 30 days of fully maintenance-free cleaning. Promote Air Quality In addition to keeping floors clean and allergens under control, there are other steps you can take to promote better air quality while you’re spending more time indoors. Scheduling service for your furnace can help ensure it’s in good condition before cold weather hits. This is also a good time to replace your air filter and consider a duct cleaning. Take time to clean ceiling fans and reverse the blades so the air circulates but fans don’t create a chilling effect. Swap Seasonal Essentials A new season brings change, whether it’s simply swapping out your wardrobe or gearing up for a busy season of school activities and sports. Make time to put away out-of-season clothes and other necessities to make room for the things you’ll need for the autumn months. Keep only the things you need and store the rest to help keep clutter under control. Find more tips for efficient fall home maintenance and cleaning at ecovacs.com.

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WeAreProsper.com | 23

Life & Luxury Magazine Growing Prosper

THINKING OF A NICE FALL CONTAINER FOR YOUR HOME? These Tips will Help you be Successful Planting a container garden couldn’t be easier. All you need is potting soil, plants and slow-release fertilizer. That said, there are some things it’s helpful to know before you get started. MAKE SURE YOUR CONTAINER HAS ENOUGH DRAINAGE Drainage may be the single biggest factor on whether your plants live or die. Make sure that your pot has a big enough hole or holes in the bottom to let excess water drain away. There are many garden pots sold in stores that have one tiny hole in the bottom that will not let enough water escape, so you will need to be very careful in watering the pot. Or even better, you should add more holes. If your pot is metal, you can poke holes by using a hammer with either a large nail or screw driver. If your pot is ceramic, it can be a little more difficult to add holes, but I’ve had good luck using a drill with a ceramic bit. Don’t forget to wear safety goggles, because it is common for piece of the container or dust to fly around, and you don’t want to risk getting them in your eyes. Remember…the more holes, the better drainage. Many more plants are killed by drowning than not enough water. They second part of the drainage equation is keeping the soil in, while letting the water out. I like to use window screening over the holes, but I have also used coffee filters, paper towels and newspaper in the bottom of my pots. Whatever you do though, avoid the suggestion to put gravel in the bottom of your pots to increase drainage. It doesn’t work, and in fact is it can be counterproductive. It is also a good idea to elevate your pots, so that the water isn’t blocked from exiting out of the drainage holes. There are any number of ways to elevate your plants, but pot feet are the easiest.

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REMOVE YOUR PLANTS FROM THEIR NURSERY POTS CAREFULLY When I first started gardening over 30 years ago, I would grab it by the stem and pull to get it out of its pot. Often, I would just pull the top of the plant off, sometimes killing it before I even got started. To avoid this, if you have a six pack of plants, that is made of flexible plastic, hold the plant close to the soil surface and squeeze the plants out of their holder from the bottom. I make a “v” out of my fingers and place them on either side of the stem. If the plant is in a nursery pot, try pushing it out from the bottom. If it is root bound, you may have tear or cut any roots off that are sticking out the bottom hole of the pot and slide a knife around the inside of the pot, before the plant will slide out. In extreme cases, you may have to break the pot to free the plant due to being root bound. If your plant is root bound, make sure to break up the plant’s roots, either by tearing them or cutting them. Some people simply rough up the roots on the outside by rubbing them, but I’m a little more aggressive and often tear or cut a compacted root ball so the roots will be able to grow freely, not in a circular pattern, which can strangle a plant. MIX FERTILIZER INTO YOUR SOIL It took me years to realize that I was starving my plants to death. Most plants need food to survive and the easiest way I’ve found to provide food is to mix a slow-release fertilizer into your potting soil before planting your container. I use a granular all-purpose fertilizer into my soil. I also then feed my plants with a diluted, liquid fertilizer every week or every other week during the growing season.

PLANTING There are two main things to know when actually planting a plant in a container. You want to plant it at the same level that it sits in its nursery pot. So, in other words, the level of the soil should stay the same and no more or less of the plant’s stem or crown should be covered. You also want to make sure there are no air pockets and your plants’ roots are surrounded by soil. In a crowded pot, sometimes it is difficult to put soil in between the plants, but you will need to make sure that you do, or the roots will dry out if they are in an air pocket, and your plant can die. Sometimes you just need to feel around a crowded pot and stuff soil into any holes you feel. It’s also a good idea to water a pot right after you plant it, which settles the soil. At that point you can go back and fill in any holes or depressions with extra soil. CARING FOR YOUR CONTAINER GARDEN Watering is more art than science. You will need to know what conditions your plant or plants prefer. However, the majority of plants like to be kept in moist soil…not wet, but damp. To figure out if your plants need water, you can stick your finger down into the soil, up to the second knuckle. If your finger tip feels dry, add water. Be sure to water slowly and make sure the water is going to your plant’s roots--not bouncing off the soil and running down a space that can form when the soil contracts, between the soil and the inside of your pot. You want to water deeply so the water gets all the way down to the plant’s roots, the best way to know if you’ve accomplished this is to water until it starts to run out the bottom of your container. Next column I will try to give you some tips on some really hearty plants to get started inside your home! Until next time... Happy Gardening!!

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Send your landscaping and gardening questions to Jimmie Gibson Jr. at http://www.absolutelybushedlandscaping.com or jimmie@absolutelybushed.com. Jimmie is a Prosper resident and the owner of Absolutely Bushed Landscaping Company, an award winning, family and veteran owned and operated business created in 1980 to provide the highest quality custom Outdoor Renovation available to homeowners in the Dallas Ft. Worth area.

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Life In &GLuxury ood Magazine Taste

A TRADITIONAL BREAKFAST WITH A TWIST The same bowl of cereal can get boring after eating it for breakfast day in and day out. You may find yourself looking for something new and exciting to start your whole family’s morning off on the right foot. Kids can be picky when it comes to breakfast foods, but this recipe for Sausage Fresh Toast Roll-Ups is a quick and easy way to fill their bellies with a taste of several flavors they may already love. It’s a perfect way to fill your morning with joy, no matter if the hours ahead are filled with work, school or play.

SAUSAGE FRENCH TOAST ROLL-UPS

12 sausage links 2 eggs 2/3 cup milk 3 teaspoons almond extract 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

A sizzling sausage link wrapped with French toast, it combines a favorite breakfast protein and traditional deliciousness in one little roll. Drizzled with warm maple syrup at the end, even adults can’t help but indulge in these breakfast bites. This is a quick dish too, using few kitchen utensils, which makes for more time in the morning to enjoy the little things that matter most like moments with family before rushing out the door. This recipe can also be made when your family is craving breakfast for dinner. Find more breakfast recipes at Culinary.net.

If you made this recipe at home, use #MyCulinaryConnection on your favorite social network to share your work.

6 bread slices, crust removed, cut in half 3 tablespoons butter syrup In skillet, cook sausage links according to package directions. Set aside. In medium bowl, whisk eggs, milk, almond extract and cinnamon. Dip bread slice in egg mixture. Wrap bread slice around cooked sausage link, pressing seam to keep from unrolling. Repeat with remaining bread slices and sausage links. In large skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter. Place roll-ups in skillet, seam-side down, and cook until all sides are browned, approximately 10 minutes. Drizzle with syrup.

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A WEEKNIGHT MEAL SOLUTION

2 teaspoons chili powder

During the hustle and bustle of the school year, it can be difficult to find time to sit down for dinner together as a family. However, on weeknights filled with extracurricular activities, homework, meetings and more, it’s still important to put delicious and nutritious meals on the table that can be served whenever your family members can find a few minutes to grab a plate.

1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen

Dairy foods like milk, yogurt and cheese are on hand in many kitchens and provide nutrients people of all ages need to grow and maintain strong bodies and minds. These Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls combine dairy with chicken, beans, corn and rice plus colorful garnishes for a meal you can set in the slow cooker at the beginning of the day and serve whenever hunger strikes that evening. Find more weeknight meal ideas at milkmeansmore.org.

SLOW COOKER CHICKEN BURRITO BOWLS Recipe courtesy of Lori Yates of Foxes Love Lemons on behalf of Milk Means More

1 can (15 1/2 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained 2 cups instant brown rice chopped avocado, for garnish chopped cilantro, for garnish chopped red onion, for garnish chopped tomatoes, for garnish lime wedges, for garnish sour cream or Greek yogurt, for garnish shredded colby jack cheese, for garnish In slow cooker, stir together salsa, chicken, broth and chili powder. Cook 3 1/2 hours on high or 7 1/2 hours on low. Transfer chicken to cutting board and coarsely shred; return to slow cooker. Stir in beans, rice and corn. Cook 30 minutes on high, or until rice is cooked through. Serve garnished with avocado, cilantro, onion, tomatoes, limes, sour cream and cheese.

1 jar (16 ounces) chunky salsa 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth WeAreProsper.com | 27

Life & Luxury Magazine Fashion Weekday To Weekend Sweater Dressing Finally! It’s sweater weather. This season, we’re loving the mash-up of various textures, fabrics and fits. From chunky sweaters and cable knits to plush pullovers and mock turtlenecks, sweaters are the easiest way to update your cold-weather wardrobe. We say the more the merrier, but really, just one sweater styled multiple ways can take your look from pulled-together weekday go-getter to casual lounge-loving weekender. THE CLASSIC CABLE The next best thing to hitting the snooze button and crawling under the covers on a chilly weekday morning? Wearing a super soft cable knit sweater in a dreamy creamy color. This timeless pattern feels very of-themoment when paired with a mid-length skirt, plush suede booties and a colorful clutch. The combination says smart and professional, yet not too buttoned-up. Swap the skirt for a pair of black leggings and thigh-high boots, and you’re set for Saturday night. THE STATEMENT SLEEVE SWEATER Nothing says fall like a palette of leaf-turning hues. Go for colors that don’t necessarily match, but do complement each other. Top a pair of olive denim pants with a statement-sleeve, burnt orange sweater and finish with contrast-heel black booties. Add an on-trend animalprint and you have instant style “savoir faire.” (That’s French for “know-how” and English for “know wow!”). Create your own unique version of this look and be weekday- or weekend-ready for anything. THE CHUNKY KNIT Raised, marbled, pebbly, or fuzzy––texture adds visual interest and dimension to your outfit. Especially if you sport a chunky sweater in a spirited hue that sits front and center. Surround it with neutrals: a simple thinstriped cotton button-down that doesn’t compete with the same-patterned knit skirt, even if you let it peek out (for a touch of old-school yet very “now” prep). Complete the look with a pair of stacked-heel booties and a taupe and black cross-body bag. Swap the skirt for a pair of distressed cropped jeans for an instant weekend-worthy dress-down. THE TRIED & TRUE TURTLENECK Whether close-fitting or slightly oversized, a turtleneck adds a sophisticated 70s minimalistic vibe to any outfit (the wider the neck, the better). We love a soft beige, loose-fit, box-cut sweater paired with a contrasting bright blue, textured mini skirt. Dainty, pointed flats pair well with the shorter skirt length. Top it all off with a heavyduty coat. Add tights and booties if you’re still feeling the chill, or swap in black-wash jeans for a weekend-worthy look.

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THE SOPHISTICATED SWEATER DRESS The chic chameleon, a sweater dress is like no other dress in your closet (stretchy and figure flattering at the same time). Pair it with an always-modern moto jacket and take your look from office hours to after hours in the time it takes you slip it on, ditch your pumps for booties and grab your snakeskin tote. THE NOT-BE-KNOCKED MOCK TURTLENECK It may have gotten a bad rap in the early 80s and 90s, but the mock turtleneck, with its pretty, neck-lengthening silhouette, is back on track this season. Loose-fitting and low-key, it’s the perfect antidote to a hectic week. Pair it with boyfriend jeans and a blanket scarf soft enough to make you want to curl up on the couch with a favorite book. Feeling antsy? Throw on a jacket and tennies, and stroll to brunch with your besties.

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Call 214.227.2163 today! Smart choices last a lifetime. Restrictions apply. Discounts may vary. Not available in all states. See your agent for details. Insurance is underwritten by Farmers Insurance Exchange and other affiliated insurance companies. Visit farmers.com for a complete listing of companies. Not all insurers are authorized to provide insurance in all states. Coverage is not available in all states. Life Insurance issued by Farmers New World Life Insurance Company, 3120 139th Ave. SE, Ste. 300, Bellevue, WA 98005.

THE HIP HOODIE SWEATER Weekends were made for sporting something soft and comfy––like a sweater, leggings and loads of layers (particularly if you’re looking for creative ways to save on your heating bill!). A favorite go-to this season, athleisure wear says kick-back and relaxed, but still looks polished and put together. Stick with a neutral legging (black is the be-all, end-all) and top it with a super soft, hooded pullover layered under a striped knit top. Step outdoors in a nubby fleece jacket, sleek sneaks, and a stylishly small backpack. One sweater, many options, or dare we say, many sweaters, even more outfits! Either way, ask your Stylist for a few of these toasty toppers. Article is compliments of Stitch Fix. Visit http:// www.stitchfix.com to schedule your next fix!

"Home is where Love Resides, Memories are Created, Friends and Family Belong and Laughter Never Ends."

Tammy Elliott, REALTOR® Coldwell Banker Realty Agent License: #762758 3211 Internet Blvd., Suite150 Frisco, TX 75034 C. 469.222.9892 | O. 972.712.8500 tammy.elliott@cbrealty.com tammyelliott.cbintouch.com

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Life & Luxury Magazine Travel

PLAN AHEAD FOR THIS YEAR’S HOLIDAY VACATION Whether your family counts a holiday vacation among your treasured traditions or you’re anticipating a holiday getaway for the first time, getting an early start on your planning can help ensure your trip is filled with good tidings and joy. Know what you want to spend. If you’re planning to open your wallet a little wider for this trip than you have in the past, you’re not alone. A survey by American Express Travel found more than 60% of travelers are planning to spend more on trips in 2021 since they missed out on travel in 2020. Setting your budget now can help you make choices about things like accommodations and activities while giving you some extra time to save. Working off a budget from the start can also help you take advantage of book now, pay later options that may give you added savings or incentives. Be conscious of high-demand destinations. Popular travel spots tend to fill up fast, so if you’re considering visiting a high-demand location, be aware of how crowds might affect your plans for everything from wait times at attractions to rental cars and more. According to vacation rental company Vrbo, prime warm-weather destinations where families can spend the holidays together are already facing lower availability for homes, including Florida and Hawaii beaches. Similarly, Maui, Hawaii, has less than 20% of homes available during Christmas week. Ski spots also see a large share of holiday travel, so be prepared if you’re planning on a holiday hot spot.

Manage against the unexpected. Despite all the advantages of planning ahead, it’s impossible to predict unknown variables like the weather when you make travel arrangements months ahead of time. Travel insurance can help protect the majority your investment if you have to cancel your trip. Some policies offer coverage for cancellation for any reason, so you’ll want to research exactly what your policy allows, including weather and pandemic-related cancellations. Book lodging early. With travel volume up and availability for accommodations already trending downward for the holiday season, consider making reservations sooner than later. “We typically see December bookings peak in October and November, but families are locking in their holiday vacation plans much earlier than usual,” said Melanie Fish, Vrbo’s travel expert. “Vacation homes have been quickly scooped up during every popular travel season this year, so it’s no surprise families are planning ahead to ensure they have a great place to spend the holidays together.” Look into local events. In this pandemic age, many attractions and activities have new guidelines, including altered operating schedules, occupancy limits and reservation systems. You can typically find the latest information on websites or by calling ahead. Take these measures into consideration as you’re creating your trip itinerary and organizing advanced reservations. Consider how the holidays will affect your packing. Traveling during the holidays may mean a different approach to your typical vacation packing. Especially if you’re traveling with children, you’ll need to make space for beloved holiday traditions such as gifts or a visit from a certain jolly old elf. For more inspiration for your holiday getaway, visit Vrbo.com.

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Dr. Jill, Dr. Cara, and Dr. Summer provide customized dental care for your entire family! They are committed to the highest level of dentistry that incorporates the most recent medical advances with time-proven traditional dentistry. From the moment you enter their office, every member of your family will feel like part of the Prosper Family Dentistry family.

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201 N. Preston Rd., Ste. A, Prosper, TX 75078 | ProsperFamilyDentistry.com

972-347-1145

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Postal Customer

Find your church home near your home. Gateway Church is in your neighborhood! If you’re looking for a church home, come meet some of your neighbors and get connected at one of our services. We want our church to be a place where you find support and encouragement as you grow closer to God. When you come, we’d love to meet you at Connect Central to get to know you, share a cup of coffee, and answer any questions you may have. We can’t wait to see you! Gateway Church Prosper 4331 Prosper Trail Prosper, TX 75078 Service Times Sunday: 9 & 11 am gatewaypeople.com

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