ProsPer’s Community magazine sinCe 2012 January 2025 | Issue 162 WeAreProsper.com
When you work here, you grow here.
We collaborate across specialties and skillsets
We value every voice
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We connect the dots between caregivers, families and communities
Proud to be among the best.
Be part of the magic.
For many families, winter break is a perfect opportunity to create lasting memories through fun and engaging activities. School’s out for a couple weeks and snow is on the ground in many parts of the country, which lends itself to both indoor and outdoor fun. Consider these ideas to make the most of winter break with your family.
Winter offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the season. Bundle up and head outside for some classic snow activities. Build a snowman, create a snow fort or have a snowball fight. For more adventurous families, try sledding, ice skating or skiing if you have access to a nearby slope.
Gather around the table for a game night filled with laughter and friendly competition. Choose a variety of board games that cater to different age groups and interests. Classics like Monopoly, Scrabble, Uno, Connect 4 and Clue are always hits.
When it’s time to wind down, a movie marathon can be the perfect way to relax and enjoy each other’s company. Pick a theme, such as holiday classics or animated favorites, or take turns letting each family member share his or her favorite film. Make it extra special by setting up a cozy movie-watching area with blankets, pillows and a selection of snacks like popcorn, hot cocoa and cookies.
Find more ideas to make the most of winter break at eLivingtoday.com.
When the weather outside is too harsh, bring the creativity indoors. Set up a crafting station with supplies like paper, markers, glue and glitter. Create homemade holiday decorations, design personalized greeting cards or embark on a DIY project like making snow globes or hand-painted ornaments.
The kitchen can be a hub of family activity during winter break. Plan a day of baking cookies, cupcakes or other treats together. Let the kids help with measuring ingredients, mixing and decorating. In addition to baking, consider preparing a special family meal everyone can contribute to like homemade pizza.
A new year brings fresh opportunities for a lifestyle reboot, and as you set health goals for 2025, remember that your pet can embark on the journey to healthier living right along beside you. Whether you’re aiming to eat better, exercise more or find peace of mind, one of the best strategies for success is the buddy system – and your pet might be the perfect partner. Consider these three ways you and your pet can work toward healthy habits together this year.
Many people find it challenging to stick to a gym routine and get the most out of that membership. However, there are countless ways to get exercise without relying on fancy gym equipment and working out at home means you can include your pet in the fun too. Even a simple walk or jog with your dog can be essential for vitality and well-being.
When you’re feeling ready for more adventure, head to a local park or hit the trails for an extra challenge. To keep things fun, try a game of fetch in the backyard or visit a dog park to add variety to your routines.
Eating real, recognizable and nutritious foods is essential for both humans and pets. An option like Nature’s Recipe delivers premium, natural nutrition with added vitamins, minerals and nutrients for pets at every life stage. With more than 40 years of expertise, its dog food recipes are inspired by nature and designed for dedicated pet parents who demand the best in nutrition.
“We’re committed to our promise that every ingredient counts,” said Dr. Preston Buff, principal scientist, nutrition and animal safety, Post Consumer Brands and Nature’s Recipe’s Pet nutritionist. “Pet parents can trust we use only the best to fuel their dog’s health and happiness. By focusing on premium ingredients that promote vitality, Nature’s Recipe empowers dog owners to invest in their pet’s health. We aim to recognize and delight pet parents who dive into ‘research mode’ and want healthy, nutrient-rich recipes.”
Quality time with pets has been shown to lower cortisol levels in humans, helping to promote calm and wellness, according to the National Institutes of Health. Whether it’s a walk through the neighborhood, playing in the backyard, a gentle grooming session or simply offering the occasional belly rub, spending time with your pet can bring a sense of peace and well-being.
As you and your pet journey together toward a healthier lifestyle in 2025, remember the path to healthy living is even more rewarding when traveled with a buddy. Discover more ways to support your pet’s vitality, health and happiness in 2025 with purposeful, nutrient-rich nutrition by visiting naturesrecipe.com.
The Town of Prosper would like to invite the public out for the groundbreaking ceremony of Prosper Fire Station 4 on Thursday, January 9th, at 10:00a.m. The new station will be located at 3980 E. Prosper Trail in Prosper, Texas, which is just west of Cockrell Elementary School. This station will be the fourth for the Town of Prosper.
Celebrate this exciting addition to our community with remarks from Mayor David Bristol and Fire Chief Stuart Blasingame along with recognition of dignitaries and representatives from Pogue Construction and BRW Architects. The ceremony will conclude with a ceremonial groundbreaking led by Mayor Bristol, Fire Chief Blasingame and Town Council members, followed by photos and refreshments.
Parking is available in the gravel lot on site, and there will be limited additional parking is available at the Park Operations facility behind the construction site. This is an exciting time in Prosper, as more facilities and amenities continue to be provided with the population growth. The hope is that the community shares in the excitement and is able to attend the celebration.
If blustery conditions are giving you the blues, come inside from the cold for a winter warmup in the comfort of your own kitchen. Cold-weather favorites that are baked, roasted or slow cooked are usually equal parts easy, delicious and filling, making them perfect solutions for chilly, snowy days.
Add a bit of comfort to your weeknight menu with this Loaded Chicken Bake that’s ready in about half an hour. A short list of ingredients and allowing your oven to do most of the work for you mean it’s ideal for saving time (and money at the grocery store) while still satisfying winter appetites.
Serving as the hearty base is READ German Potato Salad, made with thinly sliced potatoes and bacon in a traditional sweet-piquant dressing. While it’s delicious when served chilled, heated or at room temperature on its own, it can also be the star of the show in family meals.
For another true cent saver, try Oven-Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Beets. This savory side dish highlights the flavors of the season in a recipe that’s as easy to assemble as it is to enjoy with loved ones.
Picked and packed at peak ripeness, antioxidant-rich Aunt Nellie’s beets are pickled with a delicate balance of sweetness and vinegar for a homemade flavor that’s perfect in this roasted side that can accompany winter meals of all sorts. Versatile jarred whole pickled beets are always in season, meaning you can enjoy them chilled, warmed or worked into recipes.
Find more favorite wintertime recipes by visiting READSalads.com and AuntNellies.com
Nonstick cooking spray
2 cans (15 ounces each) READ German Potato Salad
4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken or other cooked chicken
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon finely ground black pepper
3/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/4 cups crumbled, cooked bacon
French fried onions (optional), plus additional for serving (optional), divided
Preheat oven to 375 F.
Lightly coat 9-by-13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Spread German potato salad evenly in dish. Top evenly with chicken.
In small bowl, stir heavy cream, salt and pepper. Pour mixture over chicken.
Sprinkle with cheese, bacon and onions, if desired.
Bake 15 minutes, or until casserole is bubbly. Let stand 10 minutes. Top with additional onions, if desired.
1 jar (16 ounces) Aunt Nellie’s Whole Pickled Beets
2 large sweet potatoes (about 1 pound) peeled and cubed (1/2-3/4-inch cubes)
2-3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 red onion, sliced about 1/4-inch thick
2 fresh rosemary sprigs, plus additional for garnish
Preheat oven to 400 F. Drain beets. Discard liquid or save for another use.
In large bowl, toss sweet potatoes, olive oil, salt, pepper and onion until coated.
Place silicone mat on baking sheet or line with aluminum foil.
Pour contents of bowl onto baking sheet in single layer. Remove rosemary from stems; sprinkle over vegetables. Bake 30 minutes until potatoes are almost tender.
Add beets to baking sheet. Return to oven 10-15 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender and beginning to brown. Garnish with additional rosemary, if desired.
Step into Southern tradition as the calendar flips. Black-eyed peas are considered a good luck charm for the new year, and you can join in on the prosperity with this one-pan version that adds bacon and rice for extra charm. Visit Culinary.net to find more family recipe inspiration throughout 2025.
1/2 pound bacon
5 large collard leaves
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 can (10 ounces) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
2 cans (15 ounces each) black-eyed peas
2 packages (8 ounces each) long grain and wild rice
Cornbread
Using kitchen shears, cut bacon into pieces then fry in skillet. Drain and set aside.
Wash and devein collard leaves. Roll and cut into extra-small pieces. In same frying pan used to cook bacon, add butter, garlic powder and onion powder. Over medium heat, saute collard greens. Add broth and tomatoes.
Drain and rinse black-eyed peas. Add to pan with cooked bacon.
Cook rice according to package instructions.
Place black-eyed peas mixture on try and spread rice around it. Serve with cornbread.
With colder temperatures and dreary skies, it can be easy to feel a touch of the winter blues. However, there are some ways you can freshen up the inside of your home, no matter what the weather is doing outside.
Feel Better with Fragrance – The part of the human brain that registers smells is closely linked to the part of the brain related to emotions. Adding some pleasant fragrances to your home can help boost your mood. Try room diffusers, candles and potpourri in different rooms. For a more personal pick-me-up, try scented bath bombs or body lotions. Some popular aromas include citrus varieties like orange, grapefruit, tangerine and lime, and herbs and spices such as rosemary, eucalyptus, spruce, peppermint and cinnamon.
Cheer Up with Color – Seeing red, green with envy, feeling blue – colors are often associated with moods and emotions. While you may not be able to repaint an entire room, you can add touches of color to brighten up your spaces. Accent pieces like frames, vases, bowls or knick-knacks can be inexpensive ways to bring a cheery touch to a room. Textiles are another way to bring a pop of color. Think about pillows, throws, table linens and small accent rugs.
Lighten Up with Light – Many people with Seasonal Affective Disorder are treated with light therapy, which includes using light boxes that emit light similar to daylight. Changing your light bulbs can help lift your mood, too. Look for bulbs with a color temperature of 5,000 Kelvins or higher. They produce light that most people will perceive as similar to daylight. Bulbs coated with neodymium filter out the yellow cast emitted by many bulbs. They also make blues and reds look richer.
If your family suffers from the winter doldrums, a dose of sunshine may be just what they need. Give everyone something special to look forward to this year by planning a vacation that appeals to kids, parents and grandparents alike.
Leaving the country for breathtaking views and relaxation at the world’s beautiful beaches may provide the boost of vitamin D you need, but it also requires a little extra preparation compared to the average road trip. Ensure your memory-making excursion goes off without a hitch by doing the legwork in advance to avoid unnecessary stress. Plan your winter getaway with these tips for an elevated experience.
As you prepare for your next adventure, planning ahead is essential to ensure a seamless experience, especially when traveling internationally and for long-haul trips. Whether you’re seeking a dreamy beachfront destination or a European vacation, collaborating with a travel advisor as your first step in the planning process can significantly enhance your trip since they provide expert
help and ideas tailored to your preferences. One of the key advantages is that their services typically come at no cost to you, allowing you to relax while the experts handle everything from finding the best deals to managing essential travel requirements, such as country entry guidelines and passport regulations.
Once you’ve settled on a location, it’s time to go over the lodging options with your travel advisor. Whether you’re looking forward to digging your toes into the sand or craving a little adventure, it’s always best to identify what matters most for your trip. Researching resorts that offer a true “all-inclusive experience” can help ease stress and keep the focus on family fun. Consider stays at Sunscape Resorts & Spas, which offer features like a kid’s checkin experience, welcome treats, connecting rooms and more, all designed to “Press Play” on Unlimited-Fun. This way, your family’s needs and wants are covered – with best-inclass service, all access restaurants, unlimited drinks and a supervised Explorer’s Club for Kids while teens have their own space at the Core Zone Teens Club.
One way to maximize your resort stay is to sign up for hotel loyalty programs, like World of Hyatt’s loyalty program, to earn rewards and benefits that can go toward free nights, exclusive member rates, upgrades and more. Plus, travel advisors who book directly can input your loyalty information to help ensure you get the most out of your getaway.
Travel advisors commonly visit locations and resorts, so they know the destinations inside and out. Ask your advisor if he or she has traveled to your desired vacation spot and consider the expert advice offered, from must-
have meals to recommended attractions and excursions.
One way to make memories that last a lifetime is to explore any special family packages that are available at the time of booking. For example, resorts often offer packages that include welcome gifts, comped meals, reserved spots by the pool or beach, family photos and beyond. Before booking, make sure to ask your travel advisor about any special packages being offered at your destination.
If you’ve ever traveled so much as an hour or two away from home, you know how important a checklist is to avoid leaving behind any musthaves. A trip to the beach calls for an entirely new set of essentials.
If you plan to spend time at the beach (or pool, for that matter), consider adding these items to your suitcase:
Swimsuits
Sunscreen
Bug spray
Hat and sunglasses
Beach- or pool-friendly shoes
Goggles
Books or magazines
Beach bag
Reusable water bottle or tumbler
Waterproof phone case
Cash for tips
The last decade has seen a surge in cardiovascular risk factors such as uncontrolled high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity, each of which raises the risks of developing heart disease and stroke. These trends are leading researchers to conclude that the prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) will continue to rise.
More than 60% of U.S. adults will have some type of CVD by 2050, according to forecasted projections from the American Heart Association, which is celebrating 100 years of lifesaving service as the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all. Additionally, total costs related to CVD are expected to nearly triple in that time to more than $1.8 trillion.
The increase will be driven by an older, more diverse population, but these risk factors are rising even among children and adults.
“We recognize the landscape of cardiovascular health will change over the next three decades because of the coming tsunami of rising health care costs, an older population living longer and increasing numbers of people from under-resourced populations,” said American Heart Association volunteer Karen E. Joynt Maddox, M.D., M.P.H., FAHA. “Yet these are still leading causes of death and disability in the U.S.”
While continued systematic changes are needed in science, policy and health care, the majority of CVD is preventable at an individual level. You can help turn the tide on the dire outlook of CVD while improving your own health by following and encouraging others to follow the American Heart Association’s “Life’s Essential 8.”
Eat better. Aim for an overall healthy eating pattern including whole foods, fruits and vegetables, lean protein, nuts, seeds and cooking with olive and canola oils.
Be active. Adults should get 2 1/2 hours of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous physical activity per week. Kids should have 60 minutes every day, including play and structured activities.
Quit tobacco. Use of inhaled nicotine delivery products, which includes traditional cigarettes, electronic cigarettes and vaping, is the leading cause of preventable death in the U.S.
Get healthy sleep. Most adults need 7-9 hours of sleep each night. Children require 10-16 hours for ages 5 and younger, including naps; 9-12 hours for ages 6-12; and 8-10 hours for ages 13-18.
Manage weight. Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight has many benefits. Body mass index is a useful gauge. Optimal BMI is less than 25, but less than 18.5 is considered underweight. You can calculate it online or consult a health care professional.
Control cholesterol. High levels of non-HDL, or “bad,” cholesterol can lead to heart disease. Your health care professional can consider nonHDL cholesterol as the preferred number to monitor, rather than total cholesterol, because it can be measured without fasting beforehand and is reliably calculated among all people.
Manage blood sugar. Most of the food you eat is turned into glucose (or blood sugar) your body uses as energy. Over time, high levels of blood sugar can damage your heart, kidneys, eyes and nerves.
Manage blood pressure. Keeping your blood pressure within acceptable ranges can keep you healthier longer. Levels less than 120/80 mm Hg are optimal. High blood pressure is defined as 130-139 mm Hg systolic pressure (the top number in a reading) or 80-89 mm Hg diastolic pressure (bottom number).
Find more ways to manage your health in the new year and beyond at heart.org
