Argyle Living Magazine December 2018 by Murray Media Group

DECEMBER 14, 2018 - JANUARY 18, 2019

HOLIDAY STRESS GETTING TO YOU? 6 EASY-TO-DO TIPS

for NEW YEARâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

RESOLUTIONS ARE YOU NAUGHTY

OR NICE?

Direct Mailed to the Following Areas:

Argyle - Canyon Falls - Harvest - Robson Ranch

A Little Piece

COUNTRY

of HEAVEN

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID LEWISVILLE, TX PERMIT NO. 977

DECEMBER 2018 | ARGYLE LIVING | 3

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| DECEMBER 2018

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ArgyleLivingMagazine.com

Publisher & Editor Scott & Kelly Murray

Administration Managing Editor Jana Melton Sub-Editors Bobbi Byrne Emily Mitchell

Writers & Editor

Steve Gamel Susan Neuhalfen Barbara Scott-Kolb

Advertising

Kelly Murray kelly@murray-media.com

Production

Art Director Liz Wallace Graphic Designer Caroline Brock Alyson Modene

Photography

David Erdek Photography 404.664.5388 wwww.DavidErdek.com

Letters

Argyle Living invites reader feedback, story suggestions and general comments.

Email artwork@murray-media.com. All submissions become the sole property of

Murray Media Group. Editorial and Advertising Inquiries call 972.899.3637 or email

artwork@murray-media.com www.murray-media.com

Address: 3513 Yucca Dr., Ste. 200 Flower Mound, TX 75028

Argyle Living is published monthly by Murray Media Group. Some articles and/or content may be sponsored by advertisers. Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher. Argyle Living is not responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine. Advertisers and its agencies assume all liability for advertising content. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted without the permission in writing from the publisher. © 2018 Murray Media Group

OUT WITH 2018

IN WITH

2019 T he holiday season is in full swing, and 2019 is fast approaching where did the time go? It seems

like just yesterday we were sending the kiddos back to school in triple-digit temperatures, and I can remember

ringing in 2018 with family and friends

Enjoy your family, cherish your friends, always be kind, laugh often, and make the best of the bad days.

like it happened last week. They say time flies when you’re having fun and, while

I’d be willing to bet that you still learned

That’s what I love about life – you never know what the next day is going to bring (or in this case, the next year) and often the unexpected challenges are the ones that help us grow the most. So we’ll make our resolutions, and we’ll try to keep them longer than a month, but we should also remember not to be too hard on ourselves and instead take life as it comes. Enjoy your family, cherish your friends, always be kind, laugh often, and make the best of the bad days.

this year. I know I did.

Happy Holidays & Cheers to 2019!

I definitely had a lot of fun this year, my favorite thing to look back on are all of the things I learned and all of the challenges I overcame.

As we start to ponder on New Year’s

resolutions and how we’re going to make 2019 better than the last, I urge you all to reflect on 2018 – the good, the bad,

and the ugly. Regardless of whether you

nailed every one of your 2018 resolutions, and grew in ways that you never expected

Sincerely, Kelly Murray

Publisher of Murray Media Group kelly@murray-media.com

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| DECEMBER 2018

TABLE OF

CONTENTS

On the Cover is: Lucas Brawley, son of Bob and Dana Brawley owners of Brawley Farms

FEATURED:

A Little Piece of Country Heaven ASK THE EXPERTS

09 Pet Adoption

10 Counseling with Hopemead

12 Inside Community

Counseling & Trauma Center

18 Dentistry with Country Lakes Family Dental

24 Gardening with Complete Solutions 28 Organizing with Cloud Nine Organizing

32 Home Design with ML Group

PHOTOS FROM ARGYLE 31 You Submit, We Print

ARTICLES 08 2018 Signing Period: Argyle & Liberty Christian

36 EDITORS PICK: 6 Easy-To-Do Tips for New Year’s Resolutions

13 Inside Education 14 Foodie Friday DFW with Jay Marks Real Estate

16 Holiday Stress Getting to You? 18 Sheriff’s Corner with Sheriff Tracy Murphree

26 Are You Naughty or Nice?

THIS MONTH:

30 Deon Hunter Building Believers

We’re focusing on New Year’s resolutions. Look for the icon to find out organizational tips and new healthy lifesyle habits for the upcoming new year.

Holiday Recipes

33 Cannabidiol, & Why Is It So Popular?

34 Famous Shinning Tree 38 Argyle & Liberty All-District Awards

DECEMBER 2018 | ARGYLE LIVING | 7

2018

SIGNING PERIOD

Argyle Eagles and Liberty Christian Warriors by Steve Gamel

nother signing day is in the books for Argyle High School and Liberty Christian School, and once again,

a slew of prospects in multiple sports are moving on to the next level.

The Eagles and Warriors combined to have 19 athletes who were ready and

eager to sign on the dotted line at special

ceremonies on Nov. 14, which marked the first day of the early signing period. Some of the highlights from Argyle included six Division I baseball signees, all of whom

were instrumental in the Eagles’ 37-0 run to the Class 4A state title last year. Not to be outdone, Liberty Christian’s baseball

team, which won a TAPPS state title only a

8 | ARGYLE LIVING

| DECEMBER 2018

Boys Golf Logan Diomede, Abilene Christian Girls Soccer Ti Krumme, Northwestern State Boys Soccer Judson Burns, Clemson

few days before Argyle, had three players

Beach Volleyball

extend their careers.

Paxton McGlinch, Stetson

Below is a list of the athletes from both

LIBERTY CHRISTIAN

schools who participated in the early signing period on Nov. 14. ARGYLE Baseball

Sean Bolin, Utah

Dillon Carter, Texas Tech

Hayden Clearman, Abilene Christian Brenden Dixon, Texas

Baseball

Hayden Winter, Cornell Kolson Powers, Midland Junior College Jacob Hasty, LSU Girls Basketball Bella Hughes, St. Mary’s Payton Oltrogge, Texas-Tyler

Austin King, Texas Rio Grande Valley

Bailey Lewis, Coastal Carolina

Preston King, Texas Rio Grande Valley

Gabbi McBride, Iowa State

Girls Golf

Volleyball

Sarah Greiner, Rocky Mountain College

Ella Marr, Colorado Christian

PET ADOPTION Meet Creed! He is a 2-5 year old Rottweiler mix who is awaiting his new family this holiday season. He is a little shy at first but slowly warms up to you. He would prefer to have a one dog family at this time. He is up-to-date on all vaccines, heartworm negative and neutered.

WILL YOU BE HIS NEXT FUR-EVER FAMILY? The Linda Mcnatt Animal Care & Adoption Center in Denton Call for more info: 940.349.7594 Hours:10am-5pm Monday - Saturday

Info and photo courtesy of The Linda Mcnatt Animal Care & Adoption Center

DECEMBER 2018 | ARGYLE LIVING | 9

Ask The Expert: Counseling

REBUILDING

AND

MAINTAINING

Parent-Child Relationship

Over the Holidays

he holidays are just around the corner, which means the kids are out of school and you are trying to figure out how to handle them for two to three weeks. Whether you have a great relationship with your kids, or you have been struggling with them lately, maintaining or rebuilding a healthy parent-child relationship over the holidays can be challenging. Here are a few things you can try that might make a difference for you and for your child.

1. The 30-Second Burst of Attention

2. Special Time Together

At some point over the break, your

With so much going on around the

child is going to try to get your attention at the most inopportune moments. You’re on the phone making plans,

cooking, or trying to get things done

around the house, and they have to show you this really cool rock they found in the

holidays, it can be difficult to really capitalize on the time that you have with your children. Imagine taking just 30 minutes out of each week of the break to just be with your child. If you have a young

backyard right now! As insignificant as it

child, play with them for 30 minutes, once

30 seconds, which is really a small amount

allow them to lead this play time. If you

might seem, try to take a break for just

a week. Try not to control the play, but

of time when you think about it, and pay

have older children, take a little more

complete attention to your child. Say

something like, “Okay Jimmy, for the next 30 seconds you can tell me whatever it is you need to tell me, then I have to finish what I am doing.” This shows your child that you care enough to take the time

time to do something that they enjoy. Baking, shopping, exercising, whatever it takes to join in their world for a short time, just once a week. If you have multiple of them individually. Those short times

inconvenient – and it only took

child’s vacation, even compared to the

attention to them, even when it was

together could be the highlight of your

30 seconds.

Christmas presents.

| DECEMBER 2018

Everyone likes receiving a letter in the mail, especially around the holidays. It makes us feel special, and children are no different. The purpose of this letter is to recognize all of the positive characteristics you see in your child. Maybe you see them as brave, smart, kind, talented, loving, or any other positive adjective you can think of. Use this as an opportunity to let them know about all of the positive qualities you see in them. Christmas cards are a great way to do this. Instead of just buying a card and signing it, write in it and tell them exactly how much they mean to you. You always see the commercials or Facebook posts about how relieved or happy parents are when their kids finally go back to school. Maybe that doesn’t have to be you this year and you can end the holiday break with an even better parent-child relationship than when it started.

children, be sure to take time with each

out of your busy day to pay complete

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3. Letter of Recognition

by Damian McCintock, MS, PhD (Candidate) Licensed Professional Counselor Intern Hopemead Counseling & Trauma Center www.hopemead.com

DECEMBER 2018 | ARGYLE LIVING | 11

INSIDE COMMUNITY GINGERBREAD HOUSE DECORATING PARTY Join Earl’s 377 Pizza for their very first Gingerbread House Decorating Party! Each house is $30, and you will receive all the supplies, decorating materials, and help from an experienced gingerbread crafter (houses are large and can be shared between the whole family)! You even get to take your masterpiece home with you to show off all December long. Stick around after the crafts for a very special visit from SANTA himself. So be sure to stop by on December 15th at 3pm for some holiday fun. If you’re feeling hungry afterwards be sure to stick around for some delicious Italian pizza.

ARGYLE FOOTBALL SHINES IN MUSIC VIDEO “Til the Last Whistle Blows” is the newest song by Pat Green and Argyle’s own George Dunham that debuted on Mike Doocy’s Fox 4 Free 4 All. The song captures the spirit of Friday night high school football and small town living. The music video was produced by the Talon and features the field, coaches, players and people that make Argyle such a great place. Many residents were proud to see many familiar faces on television. If you haven’t seen it yet be sure to visit https://youtu.be/NuXbuGvFH6o and share the video with your friends. Who knows you might even see yourself in it. GO EAGLES!!

ATHLETES BREAKING GENDER NORMS

KEEP ARGYLE BEAUTIFUL

Nothing is as American as football and cheerleading practice

Keep Argyle Beautiful reached its Decade Birthday last year

and that’s exactly what Cassidy Owen and Aden Sheets devote

and in celebration they will be hosting an evening at the

their time to. The only difference is that Cassidy Owens is a

firehouse with a few of the original founders of the organization

promising young lady who plays football in the Argyle Youth

discussing what accomplishments have been made, plans for

Sports Association and Aden Sheets is an energetic young

the future as well as taking suggestions for future events and

man who competes in cheer. If you happen to see them as

programs. KAB Information Night will be Monday, January

they compete and progress as athletes, be sure to show your

14, 2019 at 6p.m. at the Argyle Firehouse on FM 407. Light

support for these trailblazers.

refreshments will be served.

12 | ARGYLE LIVING

| DECEMBER 2018

INSIDE EDUCATION photo courtesy of Argyle ISD

COACHES LEAD AMS TO 100TH WIN Coach Curtis King, Coach Peddy, Coach Stinson, Coach Oliver and Coach Boales captured their 100th victory when 7th grade and 8th grade football teams swept Bridgeport. This 100-0 record has been accomplished in just 3 short seasons since the new Argyle Middle School building opened in 2016. Congrats to Coach King, his coaching staff and all the players that played in the 2016-2018 seasons! We are proud of you!

THE TALON NEWS WINS AWARDS

photo courtesy of Lynn Graham, Liberty Christian School

If you haven’t been over to the talon news website you’ve been missing the quality content the staff and students of AISD have been producing. In addition to covering games and writing about important events in Argyle, their videos are expertly produced. Their hard work was recognized by the Texas Association of Journalism Educators during their Fall Fiesta convention in San Antonio where they were named Best in Show.

ARGYLE ISD

EVENTS 5th Grade Choir Concert Dec. 18 at 7p.m. at Auditorium

Kindergarten Holiday Program Dec. 19 at 8p.m. at Hilltop Cafeteria AHS Lady Basketball vs Liberty Christian Dec. 20 at 1p.m. at AHS Gym

LIBERTY CHRISTIAN

LC CHEER WINS 1ST

NHS CANNED FOOD DRIVE

Liberty Christian Varsity Cheer won first place

Need a 2019 new year’s resolution you can

in comp and game day divisions. They will be

going to Disney for UCA Nationals in February of next year. The National High School

Cheerleading Championship is the most

prestigious cheerleading championship in the country and is held at the Walt Disney World® Resort in Orlando, and nationally televised on

actually keep? How about resolving to donate some canned food items in the spirit of charity. The Liberty Christian National Honor Society will be hosting their Annual Canned Food Drive starting January 22nd. Be sure to donate new, unexpired, non-perishable foods to help

ESPN and ESPN2 to over 100 million homes

support those in need. Every bit helps so

Good luck to our Liberty Christian Warriors!

them with your kids to school.

and 32 countries nationwide each year.

whether you have 1 can or 50, be sure to send

HOMECOMING Girls Varsity Basketball Dec. 18 at 7:30p.m. vs Dallas Thunder at Home Boys Varsity Basketball Dec. 18 at 6p.m. vs Valley View at Home School Resumes Start of Second Semester Jan. 7 DECEMBER 2018 | ARGYLE LIVING | 13

Foodie Friday DFW: Golden Egg Cafe

GOLDEN

EGG CAFE

’ll be honest; breakfast is probably my favorite meal of the day. So whenever we get the chance to scope out a breakfast place, I instantly get excited! This week we headed out to Bartonville Town Center to visit Biko and Rocky Bega, brothers and owners of Golden Egg Cafe, which opened in May 2018.

Now almost six months into being open in Bartonville, we were able to witness firsthand the loyal and raving customers Golden Egg Cafe has acquired. There were several large groups there while we were there, and Rocky and Biko informed us that they have several regular customers, some of whom come into the restaurant on a daily basis!

And as you all probably know by now, I’m

And after eating their food, it’s not hard to see why! Everything is made with fresh ingredients and is made in-house as much as possible. They also source many of their products from local markets and farms, to include their eggs and produce.

include crepes, omelets, French toast, and

We had just a small sampling off their Breakfast Menu, but it whet our palette enough that now we can’t wait to head back and try even more! If you’re a fan of the traditional bacon and eggs breakfast, you’ve got to try their Midwest Combo which comes with biscuits and gravy made with their homemade sausage gravy; two eggs; two strips of bacon; and two sausage patties. Pancake-lovers will swoon over their Very Berry Cakes which are their DELICIOUS buttermilk pancakes topped with fresh berries, mascarpone, vanilla and their homemade berry glaze. This almost felt more like dessert than breakfast, but you won’t hear us complain about that! 14 | ARGYLE LIVING

| DECEMBER 2018

a lover of Eggs Benedict. So when Rocky and Biko informed us that one of their

best-sellers is their Avocado Benedict, I

was absolutely game to give it a try! The

eggs were cooked perfectly and the sliced avocado on top was the perfect addition to an already delicious Benedict.

Some of their other breakfast menu items even healthier options like oatmeal, an

940.241.2755 goldeneggcafe.com 2650 FM 407, Suite 165 Bartonville, Texas, 76226

energy bowl, and gluten-free pancakes and toast.

But that’s just breakfast! We haven’t even gotten to their lunch menu yet! They

serve an excellent assortment of salads,

sandwiches, burgers and soups that are perfect no matter the time of day!

And if you’re a coffee connoisseur, you’ll

love Golden Egg’s coffee! They are one of just a few local establishments who carry and serve Segafredo Zanetti Espresso

Brand coffee. And they even roast and

grind the beans right there in-house! We’ve heard it’s incredible stuff! Biko and Rocky have done an incredible job making themselves known throughout Bartonville/Argyle and the surrounding areas. They’re residents of Argyle - their children attend Argyle schools, so they’re so happy to be in their community, serving their friends and neighbors.

972.724.2540 | JayMarksRealEstate.com jay@jaymarksrealestate.com 1013 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 102 | Flower Mound, TX 75022

DECEMBER 2018 | ARGYLE LIVING | 15

Holiday New Year’s Article

S S

GETTING To YOU? by Susan Neuhalfen

‘T

Problem:

Having to be with family tends to be a

really big stressor for many. One may have to have Christmas dinner at her husband’s house but she hates her sister-in-law, etc. How do you cope with family stress? Solution:

Remind yourself that you’re not going to

see the family, you’re going to spend time with your husband and it’s important to

him. Now, pull back and think about who

else will be there. Do you hate all of them? Chances are, you don’t. Reframe your

perception of the idea or activity; stop

focusing on the negative (i.e., your sisterin-law). The stress will not be eliminated,

but by not focusing on the negative, you

is the season for present-giving, New Year’s resolutions, eating, parties and, of course, family. What should be one big happy couple of weeks can become very stressful. Life in Castle Hills sat down with Wayne Cagle, a licensed professional counselorsupervisor at Lifeworks in Carrollton. Mr. Cagle listed some of biggest contributing factors to holiday stress, but instead of just discussing the problems that arise, he gave solutions as to how to deal with these issues:

If you have lost your job, see where you can cut back. Take some time and make a list of all of your expenses monthly, weekly, annually, etc. What can you do without?

will lessen the stress and make the activity

Finally, find out if there is a way to “pass” on some of the Christmas presents this year. In some families, the adults don’t exchange presents. See if that is acceptable within your family.

Problem:

LOSS OF RELATIONSHIPS

baked, it isn’t the end of the world. This

Problem: Many people lose their jobs just before the holidays and there isn’t a lot of hiring going on during the holiday season. This causes an extra amount of stress for people during a time where more money is spent than usual.

Problem: Whether it be divorce, death, or simply the loss of a relationship, people realize that something is missing during the holidays. With the loss, traditions change, and change is always hard. The thing is, grief doesn’t actually go away, it just changes. Some may not even go into the grief consciously, it’s the holidays that remind them subconsciously.

Solution: We don’t have control over losing a job; we only have control over what we do. Before you find yourself in this situation, take a good look at your lifestyle. If this happened, how long could you survive? Try to take yourself out of debt and, if possible, put some money into an “untouchable” savings account now.

Solution: The good news is that with the passage of time, things get better every year. Instead of turning that moment into grief, celebrate the person you’ve lost. Remember the good times and start a new tradition in order to remember the best in that person. This will help everyone to cope.

LOSS OF WORK

16 | ARGYLE LIVING

FAMILY STRESS

| DECEMBER 2018

easier. Many times, the things we dread

the most aren’t anywhere near as bad as we think they will be.

STRIVING FOR PERFECTION The perception that you’re a bad person if your children’s Christmas isn’t perfect is hogwash. If the tree isn’t perfectly

trimmed and the cookies aren’t perfectly isn’t a competition. Solution:

Think back to your favorite holidays. Were they great because of a gift? Were they great because the turkey was perfectly cooked? The best gifts are memories.

Try this: let your kids decorate the tree

however they desire and leave that way. The memory of the activity will likely

stand out longer in their memory than a perfectly trimmed tree.

The most important thing to remember,

according to Mr. Cagle, is to focus on the positive. Your expectation automatically assumes reality. Stress cannot be

completely eliminated. You have to have

stress in your life; the trick is to manage it so it doesn’t manage you.

DECEMBER 2018 | ARGYLE LIVING | 17

Ask The Expert: Dentistry

DENTAL R

he holidays are upon us, and with them come the opportunity to take advantage of the pleasures of the season: time with our loved ones, good food, and rest and relaxation. Of course, when it all comes to an unfortunate end, it is best concluded with newly committed resolutions and a renewed dedication to positive habits. Here are some ideas for getting your oral health back on track for the new year.

and gums should also be a part of that

Diet and exercise are typically on the top of the list for new year resolutions. A diet that helps improve the health of your teeth

frequency and duration of exposure can

list. Of course, it goes without saying that avoiding sugary foods will help prevent

tooth decay, but so does avoiding acidic food and drinks, as these also cause

the breakdown of enamel. Specifically, beverages like juice, soda, or energy

drinks can be both acidic and sugary,

and because they can soak all surfaces

around and in-between your teeth, they pose a great risk for tooth decay. The

also increase risk for tooth decay, so avoid continual snacking.

SHERIFF ’S

CORNER T

with Sheriff Tracy Murphree

he Denton County Sheriff’s Office Professional Standards Unit consists of one Captain, a Personnel

Assistant and Administrative Assistant,

into all internal and external applicants

who apply for positions within the Sheriff’s Office. We are currently hiring Detention Officers to work all shifts. Our Detention

and three Background Investigators.

Officer’s starting pay is $17.36 per hour

to the onboarding and out-processing of

description, requirements, and application

Personnel is the liaison between the

dentoncounty.com/sheriff.

Personnel handles responsibilities related

plus benefits. The Detention Officer Job

all employees within the Sheriff’s Office.

can be found on our website, www.

Sheriff’s Office and Denton County Human

Our Training Unit is responsible for

Resources for all fleet, workers comp,

and the first report of injury paperwork. Investigators conduct preliminary

interviews and background investigations 18 | ARGYLE LIVING

| DECEMBER 2018

meeting the training needs and

requirements for all the agency’s 600+ personnel. The Training Unit also

maintains all training records, schedules

For many, financial responsibility may be a goal for the new year. When it comes to dentistry, it helps to be prepared not only for dental care, but dental emergencies, as well. Many rely on employee provided insurance plans for dental care, but it is important to understand your plan,

what treatments are covered, and yearly limits. In addition, your dentist may offer a discount plan or an internal insurance plan that provides benefits more advantageous than dental insurance. With good habits come good routines. Keeping regular dental appointments are a good start to a good routine to stay dental conscious and help prevent dental emergencies. Enjoy the holidays, Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, and Happy Smiling! by Dr. Matt who is the owner of Country Lakes Family Dental CountryLakesDental.com

training, and manages the Denton County Firearms Training Facility. The unit consists of one Lieutenant, a Training Coordinator, and one Training Deputy. Training is very important in keeping our skills sharp. We train mentally and physically every day to maintain the highest mindset. Nothing is “routine” in Law Enforcement, we all want to make sure we go home to our families after our shift. The Quartermaster is responsible for the acquisition, maintenance, inventory management of uniforms, equipment, and surplus of all Sheriff’s Office personnel and vehicles. The Quartermaster’s duties also include the management of the Sheriff’s Office vehicle fleet. This fleet includes marked and unmarked patrol cars, trucks, boats, watercraft, ATVs and trailers. The unit consists of one Sergeant and one Vehicle Outfitter. We expect our employees to be outfitted with the best equipment so that they can perform their duties to the best of their ability.

DECEMBER 2018 | ARGYLE LIVING | 19

A Little Piece

COUNTRY

of HEAVEN by Steve Gamel

hen Bob Brawley moved to Southern California 15 years ago to further his horseback

riding career, he had no idea he’d wind up meeting his future wife. And, in an ironic

twist, it turned out she actually knew quite a bit about this total stranger.

As the story goes, Dana Brawley was

an accomplished rider, too, and, though she hadn’t met Bob or his family, she

was well aware of how well-respected

the Brawley name was throughout the equestrian world.

In fact, ever since she was 17, she had been riding horses at Blue Fox Farm, a sales barn located in Escondido,

California. The sales barn accepted

horses from all over the country, but Dana preferred to ride horses that came from Brawley Farms in Oregon.

“If it was a horse from Bob Brawley, then I wanted it,” Dana said with a laugh. “Who

knew we’d meet 15 years later? Now, I am a Brawley. Nancy and Kenny Nordstrom,

our mutual friends, introduced us, and we photography by David Erdek Photography

never looked back.”

Bob agreed in his soft-spoken yet engaging voice.

“It’s quite a story,” he said with a smile. It’s been quite the fulfilling journey for

Bob and Dana Brawley, who have now been married for eight years. They

relocated to Double Oak in 2011 and eventually built what is now the third

Brawley Farms location in the United

States. The farm that started it all is in

Jefferson, Oregon and was built in 1974

by Bob’s parents, Tom and Judy. His sister, who lives in Portland, runs the second

stable. This latest piece of country heaven, located off Simmons Road across the

street from Lantana, has quickly endeared itself to both riding and non-riding

residents as an equestrian’s dream. With more than 17 acres of lush pastures and scenic trails, the farm includes a

large covered arena that is directly accessible to the barn, an outside derby field with natural jumps, and ample turnout paddocks. They offer a lesson program for riders who do not own their own horse, junior and amateur hunter, jumper, and equitation training for all levels of competition, exceptional fullservice equine boarding and training for competition horses, and more. But what’s most inspiring is that when Bob and Dana first purchased the property, all that was there was the house and the lake; the rest of it was open fields. Everything you see today was built and designed by Bob and Dana. And they literally thought of everything … from a massive observation room for guests to a fully-stocked equipment room. In addition to supplying saddles, bridles, and

Bob is the oldest of four siblings and grew up doing every farmhand job imaginable, from feeding animals to cleaning horse

stalls, bailing hay, driving tractors, doing irrigation work, and even picking rocks. Naturally, the jobs got more difficult as

he got older, and if it took two or three of them to complete a task, then that’s what they’d do – no questions asked.

“We liked it; we never felt overworked,”

Bob said. “My dad made it really fun, even if it was a chore that had to be done. As

much as I loved the farm, though, my true passion was riding. My dad has always

been a do-it-all kind of guy, and he used to help my mom with the horse shows in the summer. When I was 16, he said he

wasn’t going to do that anymore and that it was going to

be my job. I drove the

helmets, Brawley Farms owns five lesson horses that are available to lesson program riders. The only equipment a new rider needs is a pair of snug fitting jeans and closed-toe shoes with a heel.

“Until you arrive on site and tour our facility, you don’t realize the full scope of what we offer,” Dana said. “Bob did a great job thinking of literally everything.” Bob said it was important to him to follow in the footsteps of his parents. “Like any business, you change with the times. But our basic design and business model is the same as it was in 1974,” Bob said. “It’s a model that worked for my parents, so why change it? It’s served us well over the years.” He added, “I’m a farm boy born and raised,” he said. “Not many people can say that anymore.”

horses, the equipment, and did everything I needed to do to make it work.” Bob boasts

more than 30

years of experience

on the hunter jumper

circuit and is known

for his classic style,

quality horsemanship, and

unwavering attention to detail. Part of

his rise to popularity was because of that move to California, which allowed him

to compete in horse shows nearly every week due to their close proximity to his stable in Del Mar.

It’s a life he takes pride in and wouldn’t trade for anything, especially after

relocating to Texas. And with Dana by

his side, what they’ve created here is like heaven on earth.

“It’s a little piece of heaven here,” Bob said while staring lovingly at Dana. “You really do feel like you’re in the country.”

Ask The Expert: Gardening

Winter LAWN

his time of year always seems like it’s one of the busiest as we move through the holiday season and

toward the end of the year. As you’re

preparing for Christmas and your own

“end of the year deadlines” don’t forget

CARE

what seems to be an increase in mice and

Eliminating mosquito breeding grounds,

back off the house could also eliminate

should be high on our homeowner to-

squirrels this year, so getting those limbs one of their routes back inside.

As the last lawn cuttings (scalpings) of the

foundation issues and muddy backyards do lists, ensuring year-round use of our outdoor spaces.

to get outside and take care of some

year should be happening here in the next

We hope everyone has a great Christmas

losing leaves, it’s an ideal time to get them

of the ground exposure and look for areas

by one thing or another. Enjoy visiting with

helping to strengthen the tree, trimming

up. Winter is a great time to get drainage

time in what really matters.

areas thickening them up come spring,

and everyone can see exactly how the

your lawn looking healthier. Out in the

downspout / gutter drains are a great

wintertime maintenance. As the trees are

week or so (if not already) take advantage

season and doesn’t get too overwhelmed

trimmed up and thinned out. Along with

where water is either eroding or pooling

your family and friends and invest your

will allow more sunlight to your shady turf

work done now that the grass is so short

slowing the soil erosion and keeping

ground lays out. French drains along with

Lantana and Argyle areas, we’ve noticed

way to help dry out around your property.

24 | ARGYLE LIVING

| DECEMBER 2018

by PJ Kratohvil of Complete Solutions completesolutionsdfw.com

DECEMBER 2018 | ARGYLE LIVING | 25

ARE YOU

HONEY BUTTER FRIED CHICKEN 4 servings | 574 cal/serving INGREDIENTS: 1/4 c. All Purpose Flour

SPICES:

6 tbsp Honey

1 tbsp Smoked Paprika

1/2 c. Milk

14 oz. Boneless Chicken Breast

24 Club Crackers

2 tbsp Garlic Powder

2 tsp Salt

1 tbsp Corn starch 1 tsp Ground Pepper

In a ziplock bag pound crackers into crumbs and mix with the flour, spices and cornstarch. Boil vegetable oil on stove at medium high heat.

photos and recipes by Brandon Groppi

3 Eggs

DIRECTIONS: Mix eggs and milk together in a bowl.

Take chicken breast and coat them in the flour mix, egg wash and back into flour mix until fully coated. Place them in the vegetable oil and cook on each side till golden brown. Honey Butter (optional)

Microwave butter for 15 sec. and whisk with honey until emulsified. Place on top of finished chicken while hot.

DIRTY GREEN BEAN CASSEROLE 6 servings | 400 cal/serving INGREDIENTS: 16 oz. Ground Beef

5 oz Smoked Gouda Cheese

1 tbsp Soy Sauce

1/4 c. White Onion 1 tbsp Heavy Whipping Cream

1 can Green Beans

1/2 c. White Button Mushrooms

SPICES:

1 can Cream of Mushroom Soup

1 tbsp Garlic Powder

1 tbsp Parsley

16 Slices Bacon

1 tsp Black Pepper

1 tsp Salt

DIRECTIONS: In skillet at medium heat cook ground beef, mushrooms, spices & soy sauce. Preheat oven to 400° F. Cook bacon till slightly burnt. Crumble. Turn oven to 375° F. Mix beans, mushroom soup, beef and heavy whipping cream in greased baking dish. Cook for 25 mins. Last 5 mins add crumbled bacon. Take out and sprinkle cheese. Let sit until cheese melts. 26 | ARGYLE LIVING

| DECEMBER 2018

HEALTHY PANKO BREADED CHICKEN INGREDIENTS: 2 Eggs

1 c. Panko Bread Crumbs

16 oz. Chicken Tenderloins

SPICES:

2 servings | 382 cal/serving

1 tbsp Smoked Paprika

1 tbsp Garlic Powder

1 tbsp Salt

1 tsp Ground Pepper

6 servings | 139 cal/serving INGREDIENTS:

Directions: Preheat oven to 375° F. Mix panko bread crumbs, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt and ground pepper in a bowl. In separate bowl beat eggs. Coat tenderloins in egg wash first then dip into the panko mixture. Place coated tenderloins on a foil covered baking sheet and cook for 40 minutes in the oven.

NAU G

LIGHT GREEN BEAN CASSEROLE

1/2 c. White Button Mushrooms

1 can 16 Slices Green Turkey Beans Bacon

1/4 c. White Onion

1 can Cream of Mushroom Soup SPICES: 1 tbsp Garlic Powder

1 tbsp Parsley

1 tsp Black Pepper

1 tsp Salt

DIRECTIONS: Preheat oven to 400° F. Cook bacon till slightly burnt. Crumble bacon. Turn oven to 375° F. Mix beans, mushroom soup, mushrooms, onions and spices in greased baking dish.

CE NI

Cook for 25 min. Last 5 mins add bacon.

CRACK AND CHEESE: 8 servings | 1,001 cal/serving INGREDIENTS: 1/2 c. Butter

1/4 c. All Purpose Flour

3 c. Whole Milk

2 c.

1 c. Panko Bread Crubs

4 c. Grated Sharp Cheddar Cheese

8 Slices Provolone cheese

Mozzarella Cheese

1 tbsp Corn starch SPICES:

1 lb Mac & Cheese

1 c. Sour Cream

1 tbsp Onion Powder

1c. & 12oz Evaporated Milk

1 tbsp Mustard

1 tbsp Parsley

1 tsp Black Pepper

1 tbsp Garlic Powder

DIRECTIONS: Cook pasta al dente according to package. Strain & rinse with cold water. Set aside. Preheat oven to 350° F. Lightly grease 9”x13” baking dish. TIP: Don’t stop whisking EVER Melt 4 tbsps of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add in flour. Cook for 2 min. Turn heat to low, add milk, cornstarch, Dijon mustard then all spices. Turn heat to medium until mixture comes to a boil. Reduce the heat. Once thick remove from heat and add in sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted.

Add pasta and toss. Pour half of mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Next layer the provolone cheese then sour cream. Pour remaining pasta mixture. Sprinkle 1 cup of Mozzarella cheese on top. OPTIONAL Topping: Sprinkle the panko topping

evenly across the dish. Bake 25-30 minutes or until bubbly. Let dish cool for 10 minutes. Serve.

DECEMBER 2018 | ARGYLE LIVING | 27

Ask The Expert: Organizing

STEP 2 - SORT YOUR CLUTTER INTO

Organizing The

P R O C E S S

in that particular area. The revisit items are

the ones you’re having a hard time making a decision on. The trash, donate, and keep piles are self-explanatory.

de-stressed, and simplified is now a way

like-items together.

started, I couldn’t stop! Living decluttered, of life for me, and I enjoy teaching others how to do the same.

If getting organized is your 2019

resolution, I have an efficient organizing process to share with you.

STEP 1 - MAKE A MESS. It’s necessary to drag everything out and create one big cluttered pile.

| DECEMBER 2018

items you want to keep, but don’t belong

resolution a few years ago. Once I got

28 | ARGYLE LIVING

and keep. The relocate pile consists of

STEP 3 - DECLUTTER. After you have

etting organized is a popular New Year’s resolution. This was actually my personal New Year’s

by Crystal Nerpel Cloud Nine Organizing Cloudnineorganizing.com

FIVE PILES: Relocate, revisit, trash, donate,

completely sorted the clutter, it’s time to get things moving.

STEP 4 - SORT ALL YOUR “KEEPERS.” At this point, you should only have a

keep pile hanging around. Group all STEP 5 - TIME TO MAKE IT BEAUTIFUL!

This is the step we usually see on Pinterest. This is when we get to decide how we are going to display or store everything.

Overwhelmed? Crystal can guide you through the organizing process and

create a personalized organizing plan just for you.

DECEMBER 2018 | ARGYLE LIVING | 29

DEON HUNTER

BUILDING A

BELIEVERS by Barbara Scott-Kolb

s a boy, Deon Hunter spent every spare minute of his time with a basketball in his hands. Watching his older brother compete at the local Dallas Parks and Recreation Center ignited a fire within his soul for the game, and as a result of his own hard work and dedication, Deon received a scholarship to play for the University of North Texas. He played for the Dallas Mavericks Free Agent Camp and went on to compete professionally in Argentina. “I was relentless in my desire to

Throughout the holiday season, Hoop

and well-liked player.”

and teams have the option to attend

become a serious, competitive, Inspired by former coaches, Hunter has

been developing young men and women for the last 28 years to acquire good

character, intelligence, and a high sense of urgency for the game of basketball

through his Hoop Hunter organization. His community of eager basketball enthusiasts throughout DFW are a testament to his teaching abilities.

Hunter keeps its doors open. Individuals camps or clinics to improve their game. It is an excellent opportunity to refine skills and compete against talented players while most are resting.

“What separates us from other sports

organizations is that we are centered on biblical, family values. We take pride in being lifelong mentors to families and

children regardless of how far or how long they play the game of basketball.”

“We only offer high-level training when

players get serious about improving their

overall game. Mental attitude, work habits, self-drive, self-confidence, leadership, and family skills are what we desire to instill in our kids.”

The faith-based organization demands the Lord to be front and center in each of the

Deon Hunter has revamped the world of basketball for young men and women.

As a man of faith, he inspires the journey of each of his students. Student-athletes desiring to be taught intellectually,

spiritually, and athletically should reach

out to Deon at hoophunter@hoophunter. com or call his office at 817.808.3555.

camps Hunter provides. They provide a

Those who are interested are welcome

Believers” to help instill Christianity

http://buildingbelievers.org/make-a-

devoted his life to not merely improving

“As a faith-based, Christ-centered

community outreach program, “Building

to donate to Hunter’s mission at

through sports specific training. Deon has

donation-c1ger.

the skills of a basketball player, but to

impart a sense of respect, diligence, and faith for a young athlete. 30 | ARGYLE LIVING

| DECEMBER 2018

youth organization, I feel honored

and privileged to have been called to youth sports by God.”

“I was relentless in my desire to become a serious, competitive, and well-liked player.”

Holiday

FAMILY FUN Photos were submitted by area residents. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to submit your photos for publication or if you have any questions please email us at artwork@murray-media.com.

DECEMBER 2018 | ARGYLE LIVING | 31

Ask The Expert: Home Design

room. Instead of having that focal

point be a couch, mirror, or television,

Tis The

why not make it your fireplace? You may think the only function of a

fireplace is to keep you warm, but it can be an unexpected punch of

style, especially in a kitchen, study or master bedroom.

FOR FIREPLACES •

Additional seating – Creating a

seating area is a great way to add

more functionality to your fireplace,

especially if your living room is small and has limited seating options for

t may be shocking to hear, but when designing a new house, fireplaces play a big role.

Many designs include multiple fireplaces for personalized indoor and outdoor

Here are three reasons why a custom

fireplace can provide that complete look this holiday season: •

living, fireplaces with chimneys, those

modern, contemporary, double-

hearth rooms. Like Scott Calvin proved in

sided or open hearth) and can be

“The Santa Clause,” Santa doesn’t have to

customized to suit both your unique

come down a chimney.

lifestyle and a certain mood or

as the temperatures drop and with the holiday season upon us.

32 | ARGYLE LIVING

| DECEMBER 2018

to cozy up to a fire; design the home that gives you that opportunity!

At the ML Group, we really get to know

our clients, we take the time to listen to

their dreams and ideas, and then we bring it to life with cutting-edge design that

can’t be beaten. Give us a call today to

discuss your ideas for the perfect indoor or outdoor fireplace.

design you want to capture in a

Fireplaces are an opportunity to showcase they can really make a room – especially

indoor or outdoor, provide endless design possibilities (traditional,

without chimneys, and even custom

your personality and design tastes, and

Ambiance – Fireplaces, whether

entertaining guests. Everyone loves

particular room. •

It’s the perfect focal point – The

focal point is what people are going to see when they first walk into a

by Mike Love ML Group, LLC. 972.355.8700 MLGroupTexas.com

cannabidiol lowered inflammatory

and neuropathic pain without causing significant psychoactive side effects

or analgesic tolerance. Clinical trials

investigating cannabidiol’s effect on chronic pain in humans have just begun.

CANNABIDIOL, &Why Is It SO POPULAR?

Dr. Rebecca Butler is Board Certified in Pediatrics by the American Board of Pediatrics and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. She is proud to be a resident of Lantana and the owner of Lantana Pediatrics. For more information on Lantana Pediatrics, Dr. Butler and/or Melanie Bitzer, CPNP or to schedule an appointment with one of these providers, call the office at 940.455.7200.

annabidiol can now be found as an ingredient in all sorts of over-the-counter products, including body lotion, face scrub, bath bombs, lip balm, bottled water, beer, vape oil, olive oil, gummy candies, coffee, jam, and even dog treats. But what is it? And why is it suddenly so popular?

Cannabidiol is not cannabis. But it is

claim it has all sorts of benefits, such as

of the cannabis sativa plant, otherwise

relieving chronic pain, treating PTSD,

one of the many chemical components known as marijuana. The psychoactive

improving sleep, easing cravings for

compound in marijuana that causes a

harmful drugs, and other benefits that are

in cannabidiol.

many of these claims come from websites

“high,” tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), is not Most manufacturers that put cannabidiol