Striking the RIGHT NOTE
SIGNING DAY Hebron & The Colony
It’s Time TO TRY A TRI
NOVEMBER 2017
LLC
CONSIGNMENT STORE • ESTATES • DIRECT BUY
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID LEWISVILLE, TX PERMIT NO. 977
November 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 3
How to
serve your community this Holiday Season by Susan Neuhalfen
D
uring the holiday season, we urge
the community to buy local and keep
the money here. It’s no different when
it comes to donating. Many people are
Cloud9 Charities Started by Kim Cloud Skidmore of Cloud 9 Spa and Salon, they raise money
hesitant to give to large organizations
for charities that serve women and
executive’s salary instead of the one
#bedtimerescue where donors are asked
year, it would be a good idea to donate
a week at the Econolodge (at a huge
for fear that their money will go into an
families. Their fastest growing cause is
person who really needs it. Maybe this
to put up a homeless family in need for
right here at home. Here are just a few
great North Texas based charities that are in need of your time and money to help area residents this holiday season.
discount). That week gives the family time to focus and make long term plans without having to worry about where they’ll stay. There are counselors available to help them find work or to mentor them.
CISNT Communities in Schools in North Texas (CISNT) is a multi-faceted organization whose purpose is to keep kids from dropping out of school. Their various programs help 5,000 students in seven school districts including LISD Their many programs such as Project Prom and WISE help students to afford things that many of us take for granted. There are many different projects within this organization where citizens may volunteer their time, talents and money. http://cisnt.org/
https://cloud9charities.org/ Sadie’s Sleigh Sadie Keller is a resident of North Texas and an inspiration to all. In the midst of her treatment for Leukemia, Sadie started “Sadie’s Sleigh”, a charity that delivers toys to the kids being treated for cancer and blood disorders at Children’s Medical Center Dallas. https://www. sadiekellerfoundation.org/
Ranch Hands Rescue RHR is an area farm animal rescue center and sanctuary that provides mental
health counseling for children suffering from traumatic life experiences. They
partner the children with the rescued
animals under the guidance of a Licensed
Professional Counselor (LPC) in counseling sessions. These special animals that have been abused or neglected have a way of
reaching the children in ways that people don’t. http://ranchhandrescue.org/
Castle Hills Fall Festival
4 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS
| November 2017
November 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 5
CastleHillsMagazine.com
Dear NFL: What Do We DO?
Publisher & Editor Scott & Kelly Murray
Administration
Managing Editor Jana Melton Sub-Editor Bobbi Byrne Savannah Halfmann
Staff Writer
Susan Neuhalfen
Contributor Steve Gamel
Advertising Manager
Mendy Lea 214.228.5052 mendy@murray-media.com
Production
Art Director Liz Wallace Graphic Designers Stephanie Hansen Caroline Brock
M
y father loved the game of football. He played when men played because they loved the
game. Back then, most of those men who played professionally had a second job
because it wasn’t enough to pay the bills. Even Roger Staubach worked as a real
Photography
Your Candid Memories 469. 583.2819 yourcandidmemories.com
Letters
Life in Castle Hills invites reader feedback, story suggestions and general comments.
Email artwork@murray-media.com. All submissions become the sole property of
estate broker during the offseason while
playing for the Cowboys. He had a family to provide for and football was not a stable job in the 1970s.
I loved football mostly because I loved and respected my dad so much.
This will mark my second Thanksgiving
without football and the fifth Thanksgiving without my father. Since Colin Kaepernick
Murray Media Group. Editorial and Advertising Inquiries Call 972.899.3637
or email artwork@murray-media.com www.Murray-Media.com
Address: 1011 Surrey Lane Building 100, Ste. 101
Flower Mound, TX 75022 Life in Castle Hills is published monthly by Murray Media Group. Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher. Life in Castle Hills 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. © 2017 Murray Media Group
began his protest, football has lost its magic for me. Like most Americans, I
have protested back by not supporting
sponsors and not watching the games. It
has impacted the sponsors as well as the NFL’s bottom line and they are reacting because, after all, football is now a business before it’s a game.
I can’t help but ask myself, what are we DOING? I think that’s the problem. We aren’t DOING anything. For years we’ve heard about “having a conversation” but it took losing viewers, money and sponsors to take that first step. What was the result of the first meeting between players and owners? Darned if I know. Football should be a uniting factor, not a dividing factor. We should be working together to solve our problems as a nation instead of using entertainment as a platform to further divide us. Unfortunately, all of the entertainment industry seems to want to divide us. The truth is, they are all about protesting and drawing attention to themselves. I have yet to hear any of them come forward with a solution or even a request. I believe the ball (so to speak) is in the court of the NFL players. You have our attention. What do you want us to DO?
Sincerly, Susan Neuhalfen
Writer and Editor for Life in Castle Hills, Argyle Living, Lantana Living, Lake Cities Living Susan@murray-media.com 972.899.3637 Ex. 101 6 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS
| November 2017
Table of
Contents
16
On the Cover Lisa Key of Lisa’s Resale Gone Upscale
Featured: Making History Beautiful Again Lifestyle
Family
10 The Perfect Gift for Her
24 Inside Community
12 Gardening with Complete Solutions 14 Makeover of the Month
Yourself
25 Inside Education
08 Editor’s pick:
Striking the Right Note
How to Serve Your Community This Holiday Season
04
26 Hebron Volleyball: Rollins Named All - American 27 Counseling with Lifeworks 28 Hebron High Signing Day
18 It’s Time to Try a Tri
30 The Colony Signing Day
20 Nutrition with Savory Bistro
Photos
22 Edit This with Steve Gamel
04 Fall Fest November 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 7
Lifestyle
g n i rik t
St righ the
e t o n half n Neu
a by Sus
en
bout ed a n r a t le t I firs siden hen lls re i H was I e l hev, Cast c n u ard K ed Edw ason d is se h t orke t ad w mee h o t e h ed ll, hirty excit ter a ost t n. Af m l t a i a c r i fo ncer mus nally as, co r o i e ns s p a s i no sic profe ing i s mu g u n o i s s, fam hat I year ther ith o rld. W o w s w l eone hal the s som over a l l w a ing and pect ’t ex n s a w ating ung. fascin a is so yo s a vh rns. H nche nd tu u r a K s t g d s r sin e twi Edwa ined a r many t h y t l i al w assic story s a cl a w r fathe
W
escape communism by hiding on top of a car and entering what was known as Yugoslavia at the time. He eventually made his way to Canada and met Edward’s mother and together they moved their two young sons to Texas. Though Edward’s father never got the chance to sing professionally, he trained Edward classically in a style known as bel canto. It is a technique that helps a singer learn proper
photography by Angela Cheryl Photography
from Bulgaria who was forced to
breathing and voice technique. Though it works well for classical and opera training, it works well for anyone who wants to sing any style of music. It is also great for teaching speaking techniques and acting. “Because I know this technique, I have been able to complete several musical tours without straining my voice,” said
At the age of 16, people started
“When you’re in the chorus of an opera
for more training though he had to travel
about his experience. “The things I’ve
recognizing his talent and he was ready to find it. He searched through several
different universities before he connected with Sheila Jones Harms, a retired opera
singer from Vienna who had trained at the Royal College.
Edward. “So many people lose their voice they are not properly trained.” Edward trains his clients in a more progressive form of the "bel canto" technique that he has put together over the
“She is the
years to incorporate
base of a lot
all styles and genres
in church and leading worship services and even won several Christian singing awards. When he was 13, he performed at the Shannon Auditorium in Fort Worth with Leann Rhimes. In his first time performing with a live band he sung mostly George Strait music. “It was our own little Grand Ol’ Opry,” said Edward. “It was a wonderful ting to do at that age and we were there every week performing for the crowds for about a year.”
students to learn his style of bel canto while still performing on the side.
“If you are taught correctly, you can sing for hours on end, that’s what I teach my
students,” said Edward. “It’s not just about singing. It’s about preserving your voice for the rest of your life.“
her the credit for that.”
public speakers.
and styles of music. He started by singing
studio in Castle Hills and started helping
fondly. “I really give
personalities and
Edward himself has sung many forms
in music and journalism he opened up a
said Edward
also trained actors, radio
could be further from the truth.”
he will. After he graduated with a degree
musicianship,”
and The Voice. He has
think I only teach classical music. Nothing
Tevye as well as training with so many
language and
been on American Idol
singing technique,” said Edward. “People
career from playing Genghis Kahn to
in both
clients who have
find their natural voice as well as a solid
Edward could write a book about his
of my training
of singing. He has
“My version of bel canto will help singers
learned you cannot learn in a book.”
famous musicians, and hopefully one day
“If you are taught correctly, you can sing for hours on end, that’s what I teach my students,”
when they are on tour, but it is because
you’re in a position to listen,” he said
Edward went on a life journey between 1990-2002 where he would get an
education that could never be found in a classroom. He wanted to meet opera
singers because he wanted to work with them. He traveled to Vienna, Germany,
Italy, Bulgaria and many more places all
over Europe and stayed with friends while getting a top-notch education.
“I wanted to see an opera in Verona and
managed to get into Arena di Verona and
watched Aida,” he said. “It was so different than what we experience in the US, there is nothing like it.”
One thing about Edward that is truly odd yet very refreshing is his lack of ego.
While many musicians might be put out
about singing in the chorus, Edward looks at every experience as an opportunity to learn.
November 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 9
Lifestyle
The Perfect Gift for Her by Susan Neuhalfen
A
sk any woman what is a staple in her closet and she won’t hesitate to tell you that it’s leggings.
They’re comfortable and perfect for almost any outfit. Wear them under a dress, dress them up with a tunic or just wear them with your favorite t-shirt. We’ve recently discovered Brava Fitwear which is not only great for every outfit, you can wear them to work out. They are one size fits all, making them the perfect gift for any woman in your life. The fabrics and materials are comfortable and durable, not to mention crazy cool, with styles from Wonder Woman to skulls to solids.
Made of 100% Columbian supplex, power lycra and fast dry technologies, Brava Fitwear leggings are flexible, durable and come with booty lifting technology.
Find them on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ bravafitwear Instagram: @bravafitwear www.bravafitwear.com
“If you have a booty, they will fit,” said Brava Fitwear founder and owner Danielle Cornett. “Plus they have a waistband comfortable with a low waist.” The best part is that you can create a custom design for your business or group and Brava Fitwear will print it. They also carry super cool baseball caps to complete the look. 10 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS
| November 2017
photos courtesy of Brava Fitwear
that can be folded down if you’re more
November 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 11
Lifestyle | Gardening
Lawn Maintenance for Texas Winters G
rass growth is starting to slow down, temperatures and leaves are starting fall. It must be
November in Texas. As we’re preparing
to deal with the cooler temps, there are many things to start thinking about in
preparation of your landscaped spaces. There is too much going on this time of year to let these things stress you out.
We've put together a short list of common questions and answers to ensure you're prepared for whatever this winter has
down roller coaster of a Texas
What can I plant that will put some
winter. Winter is a good time
color in my beds without dying after
to assess your landscaping,
the first freeze?
figure out where the blah
Winter isn't time to
areas are and consider
ignore your landscape,
your options. Cedar
in fact both rooted and
trellises, stone seating
bare rooted plants do
areas, pots and all type of
well when newly planted
rock accents are good ways
in the winter. It’s a good
idea to get your larger plantings
(30-100gal) in the ground so they can
to get creative within your bed
spaces giving it that final finishing
touch. Sometimes the greatest focal
points of your landscape are not plants at
in store.
all but rather the hardscapes they
Can I just cut the sprinklers back or do I need to shut
are supporting.
them off completely and winterize my system?
Which one of these trees can I go ahead and
Reduce watering back to once or twice
cut back and how much can I take off without
per week and shorten the runtime per
causing damage?
zone. This will not only be adequate for
your planting but should also save you a
As long as temperatures remain above
our temperatures are going to get below
most all of your trees, shrubs and
controller to the off position, close and
will reduce on overgrowth too early
lines not deeper than 12 inches. Freezing
space more organized throughout the
little on the monthly irrigation budget. If
32°F, winter is a great time to prune
freezing it's a good idea to turn your
roses. Getting things cut back now
wrap valves, and drain water from any
in the spring and help keep your bed
temperatures can cause water/ice to expand, eventually breaking your pipes and leading to costly repairs. If you're familiar
spring rolls around so that they
are not affected by the early heat. It's also a good rule
enough with your system
of thumb to ensure you
to go ahead and prep for
have at least 2 inches
winter than do so. If not,
of mulch in your beds
sometimes it's a good
to help regulate soil
idea to call an a irrigation
temperatures and keep
professional to ensure
things are done properly. 12 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS
start to establish themselves before
| November 2017
things as consistent as
possible through the up-and-
growing season.
Hope this helps with getting your property ready for the winter months. As always, we appreciate all the support and we hope
you’re able get outside and enjoy some fresh air.
by PJ Kratohvil of Complete Solutions completesolutionsdfw.com
November 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 13
Lifestyle
Makeover of the Month
Anna Casteen A
nna Casteen was nominated by her sister, Amy, for a makeover. After eight years of teaching
middle and high school math in New York, Anna has moved back to the area and no one is happier about this than Amy. They do Zumba together twice a week, have game nights and now Amy is helping her get ready for her wedding in February. On top of all that, Anna is apparently the “coolest aunt ever” to Amy’s daughter. Anna now teaches at a community
Before
After
college and doesn't have the summer off, only Fridays, so Amy thought a makeover at Cloud 9 would be a perfect way for her to enjoy the summer, even if for only one day. Facial by esthetician Pauletta Collins Pauletta gave Anna a mini facial to remove dead skin to brighten her appearance and moisture. She also performed an eyebrow wax and tint so that her eyebrows would frame her face for hair and makeup purposes. Hair and make-up by Taylor Compton Taylor lightened Anna’s hair two levels,
Lindsey Redfern Mills, Pauletta Collins, Taylor Compton and Anna Casteen
Makeover and clothes provided by
Want to be the next Makeover? Email cloud9salon@cloud9salon.com and tell us why you deserve it!
214.415.4806 • www.cloud9salon.com
14 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS
| November 2017
brighten up her face, in order to match her personality to her new look. Taylor used Mary Kay make-up provided by Lindsey Redfern Mills, a pink Cadillac driving Sr. Director with Mary Kay Inc. who wants every woman to feel beautiful in her own skin.
photography by Caroline Simpson
and added a lightning strike in the front to
November 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 15
Making History Beautiful Again by Susan Neuhalfen
W
ith the holiday season
of mass-produced particleboard,
don’t only bring us items, they bring
quickly approaching, now
have you thought about looking at
us pieces of history complete with
home furnishings with a history?
stories,” said Lisa, who along with
year to get the home decorated and
Think about what a great addition it
her staff, goes to great lengths to
holiday shopping done before guests
would make to your home or office to
research and evaluate each item
arrive. At Lisa’s Resale Gone Upscale
have something solid and beautiful,
carefully before selling. “We enjoy
you will find a large diverse selection
that doesn’t look like
of antiques, reproductions, vintage
everything else.
is the perfect time of the
and modern pieces from some of the finest homes in the area in the form of furniture, art, home décor, memorabilia, instruments, china and more.
Lisa Key of Lisa’s Resale Gone Upscale has a showroom full of oneof-a-kind handpicked treasures. Clients
selling to customers who
“We enjoy selling to customers who truly appreciate the item they purchased from us as much as the previous owner did.”
truly appreciate the item they purchased from us as much as the previous owner did.” Lisa has one client who didn’t realize how much
Are you are moving into a new house
bring her antiques,
or redecorating a home or office? It
reproductions, vintage and modern
has done until after he revisited the
can be very exciting to find the kind
pieces they want to consign and
storage unit where he had hastily
of pieces that reflect what you love.
look to her to help them sell their
put her belongings after she passed
Instead of searching endless rows
unique pieces globally. “Our clients
away. He found hundreds of pieces
16 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS
| November 2017
traveling his mother
from all over Asia and Europe that
she’d purchased while traveling in the 1940s. Japanese parasols, Chinese
wedding boxes, a painting on batik
from Malaysia and many more pieces
that traveled in a steamer trunk across
Lisa’s Resale also has many
Come shop at Lisa’s Resale
pieces for the outdoors
Gone Upscale and shop for
including solid bronze statues
quality pieces with personality
and fountains that make a
and a history, at a fraction of
bold, yet elegant, statement.
the cost you’d expect. You
the world. These types of items are
She recently had one customer
“Global Room.”
bronze fountain for the entry of
In fact, there are many themed rooms
his plantation home he built in
now displayed a room they call the
in this huge warehouse in Lewisville. For men there is a “Man Cave” room
who purchased a gorgeous
Pilot Point.
can also visit their website at lisasresalegoneupscale.com. If you don’t see exactly what you’re looking for, talk to Lisa. She can find just about anything you want for that something special that
with everything from vintage nautical
you simply can’t find
equipment for the sailor to decades old collectibles from bars and other
anywhere else.
retail establishments. For women
there are “Treasures for Queens” and
the “Crystal Room” featuring beautiful unique piece china, crystal and many antique furnishings to give rooms
CONSIGNMENT STORE • ESTATES • DIRECT BUY
Sponsored Content photography by Your Candid Memories
character. Some of the furniture dates back centuries, which is why Lisa will
turn to her wood doctor or upholstery expert who specializes in historic
It’s a replica of the fountain inside The courtyard of Gianni
pieces when necessary. Imagine how
Versace’s mansion in Miami
nightstand could turn a guest room
in existence. This intricately
an antique headboard and vintage into a conversation piece. Or what
historical figures had walked across the antique rug that once adorned a beautiful home across the globe decades ago.
Beach and there are very few designed, Greek fountain is now the focal point when you drive into the estate.
214.425.7505
LisasResaleGoneUpscale.com 438 Southfork Dr., Ste. 650 Lewisville, TX 75057 Mon-Fri 11am-6pm • Sat 11am-4pm Closed Sunday
Yourself
It’s TimE
To Try A Tri by Susan Neuhalfen
I
f you’ve ever thought a triathlon might be in your future, believe it or not, this is the perfect time to start.
“The last triathlon races in the area
“We learned so much after that first
camp,” said Claudia. “Then the second camp came around and we had 40 kids and it just kept growing.”
are all done now until March,” said
The third year over 50 kids showed
Triathlon Level 1 Coach. “The race
camp. She had to hire three other
Lantana resident Claudia Weir, a USA season is March through October,
so this is a great time to start to train. You really need to stay in physical condition year round.”
up and Fox Sports ran a story on the coaches and max the camp out at 60 kids as well as move their location to the Lewisville Natatorium in order to keep up with the demand.
Claudia was a collegiate swimmer
Claudia, Stefanie, and Elliot are all
6 until 21. Her friend got her to
triathletes. Stefanie specializes in
who swam competitively from age compete in a sprint triathlon with
her and she was hooked. Claudia
even got her father on board and he started triathlons at the ripe young
certified coaches and competitive
training juniors beginning at age 6.
Elliot has helped Claudia coach the
senior group for a year at a half and,
at only 23 years old, the kids really look up to him.
The races for kids are considerably
less than those of an adult. It varies by age, with kids 6-10 yrs: swimming 50100 yds, biking 3 mi and running 1/2
mi. Ages 11-15 swim 200 yards, bike 6 mi and run 1 mi. Claudia finds that
many kids who compete in triathlons, do so because team sports aren’t
necessarily their thing. Parents have
different motivations for signing their children up whether it be to learn to
ride a bike property, run in the correct form or swim for more than one lap. Claudia talked about one girl who
was a runner but had no swimming
age of 60. He went on to compete
in several IRONMAN races proving that age is not a factor when it comes to triathlons.
Claudia and her partner, Stefanie
coach Elliot Bach, are the coaches of the TriSharks Team, a Lantana-based triathlon training program for kids ages 6 and up. She started about
six years ago by holding an intro to
triathlons camp for kids ages 6-13 in Highland Village where they had 20 kids come and train.
photos courtesy of TriSharks coaching
Lagomarsino, along with assistant
experience. She started off solely running and through team practice, private
coaching and numerous races over the
course of 4 years she’s now on the podium at the adult level.
“We have other girls and boys who are uneasy on a bike,” said Claudia. “We help them develop confidence to compete which translates over to a lot of aspects of their lives.” The TriSharks Program offers a variety of packages for kids to train depending on the intensity desired as well as the time constraints encountered. For more information visit their website at trisharkscoaching.com. As for adults, Claudia recommends visiting the USA Triathlon website to find certified triathlon coaches specific to your age group. “I highly suggest getting a coach who has the knowledge to properly train a
triathlete,” said Claudia. “I have my own
triathlons in 2002. Her father just retired
coach to hold me accountable.”
from triathlons at the age of 82.
Claudia suggests planning out 15 weeks
“So much of it is mental,” said Claudia.
in advance if you’re in relatively good shape to ensure you’re ready for your first event. “It’s all about training smarter, not harder and not to overtrain,” she continued. “It’s important to get enough rest, proper nutrition and recovery time between races.” It’s also important to see a
“Working toward personal goals is beneficial for everyone.” One last advantage Claudia
mentioned was the Claudia finds fact that triathlon is a that many kids who worldwide sport. She compete in triathlons, do and Stefanie plan family so because team sports trips and vacations around competing and aren’t necessarily there’s no limit to how their thing. close or far a triathlon can
doctor before you start any exercise regimen, especially one like a triathlon. Claudia took some time off and re-started the sport at a disadvantage with an
take you. “You could compete in a race just about every weekend locally or travel anywhere in the world,” said Claudia. “Triathletes are
auto-immune disorder. She says she is
international people bound by a universal
stronger now than when she started doing
love for the sport.”
November 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 19
Yourself | Nutrition
Foods to Fuel Mental Performance
D
ear Annette: Fall classes are progressing and my kids have a demanding schedule. Is it true that food can affect how they perform in school?
whole food, exercise (both mental and physical). The biggest news is we can shape and change our brains. This is very new and exciting research.
Dear Reader: The new research proves that this is truer than we could have ever imagined. We focus on food for physical health but it may be even truer for mental
The thing that bothers me the most is when I hear parents say “my kids are picky eaters” and they have a diet of soft drinks, high sugar, and processed foods.
and cognitive health. Our brains use 20-30 percent of all our calories. Calories from processed and fried foods hurt the brain, calories from whole foods feed it. The research shows brains can heal and change. Good diet, exercise and reduction of toxins is key. Researchers like Dr. Daniel Amen are leading the charge on how the foods we eat affect mood, depression, cognitive ability, memory, and overall brain function. As it turns out what is good for the heart and body is also good for the brain: clean
Kids are adaptable and can be taught to eat healthy; it must be modeled and encouraged. Their little brains do not have a chance and they certainly will not be working on full potential without healthy foods. Once again the number one thing you can do for your brain for development and healthy aging is to get off processed and fried foods. Notice the majority are plant-based foods. Notice how many of these foods that kids love. It is becoming very clear that food truly matters. Did you have any of these
items today to get through your school or work day? Did your children’s brains get any of these foods? The Amen clinics are having great success in treating everything from depression, ADD, memory loss, and even traumatic brain injury. They have had great success working with the NFL and veterans, and have scanned and studied more brains than any other research group. If you are interested in the research, go to www.amenclinics.com. The lifestyle section on the clinic’s site has a host of recipes to enjoy. Remember when you are feeding your kids you are feeding their bodies and brains.
Sincerely Yours, Annette Doody
Savory Bistro Owner & Wellness Coach
www.thesavoryteam.com
So how do I feed my brain? The research is clear, processed sugar is a big culprit for depression and overall brain health. Processed, fried foods, and added chemicals and preservatives not only clog up the arteries but it appears the pathways for the brain. Based on the latest research here are some of the best foods for your brain health.
Raw Almonds
Eggs
20 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS
Cashews
Salmon (oily fish)
| November 2017
Walnuts
Apples
Cinnamon
Avocados
Coffee (check out bullet coffee)
Blueberries
Dark chocolate (75% cocoa or higher)
Chicken (lean protein)
Kale, Spinach and Greens
November 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 21
Yourself | Edit This
I Hate Coffee.
But, I Sure Do Love
Coffee Shops. T
here’s a new Starbucks being built across the street from our neighborhood. When my son
saw it, he said, “Cool! Now you can meet clients here instead of driving to that
other one.” I laughed and said, “That’s
true, but the other one is only five minutes up the road.”
What sticks out from that short
conversation is that even my 10-year-old
son knows how valuable coffee shops are
and coffee shops offer the perfect laidback atmosphere.
5. I can give myself a time limit — How long is it acceptable to hang out at
2. It doesn’t feel like my office — I love
Starbucks? I guess if you’re purchasing
while, I give my creative juices a jolt with
you’re working, you can’t be accused
plenty of beverage options — other than
to spend all day there. I know I don’t. I
my home office. But every once in a
a few items here and there and it’s clear
a change of scenery. There’s free Wi-Fi,
of loitering. But surely you don’t want
coffee, of course — no one bothers me,
and there’s still plenty of room to work. 3. It’s easier for me to work on bigger
typically set a time limit of two or three hours, and that helps me stay on task. 6. It’s a tradition, isn’t it? — Just like all
to my writing and editing business, Edit
projects — Sticking to the previous point
I’d say I stop in at 10 different coffee shops
shop setting, I often save my bigger
some work done.
enterprise features, etc.) for my trips to the
appreciate coffee, but the coffee shop
The funny thing is, I hate coffee. But
in a shorter amount of time, and it doesn’t
cracked up to be.
This®. In the Dallas-Fort Worth area alone, fairly regularly to meet with clients or get
clearly I’m having a writer’s affair with coffee shops.
Here are 6 reasons why:
on feeling more creative in a coffee
writing projects (website content writing,
coffee shop. I end up accomplishing more feel like work.
4. I like to people watch — Sounds
totally creepy, I know. But all creative
1. It’s a convenient meeting spot — The
writers need a muse or different elements
has been taken out of the equation. I just
inspiration. Occasionally, I’ll just watch and
bound to be a Starbucks or smaller coffee
You never know when a good story will
guesswork over where to meet a client
happening around them for added
find a middle ground in town and there’s
listen to everything going on around me.
shop in the vicinity. Clients appreciate
pop up. If you don’t believe me, just give
being able to get away from the office, 22 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS
| November 2017
it a try.
cowboys wear boots and drive pickup trucks, aren’t all writers supposed to
love working in a coffee shop? I may not — for a writer, anyway — is everything it’s Thanks for reading! If you’re in need of an extra set of eyes to look over your next corporate message, blog, website, article, resume, term paper, etc., call Edit This.
by Steve Gamel Edit This 469.360.3611 www.edit-this-npsteve.com
November 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 23
Know
Be in the
Family
Inside Community
Santa on the Square
On December 2, Santa on the Square in downtown Carrollton starts with a
Kids Fun Run (8:30 a.m. registration, 9:30 a.m. start time). All participants will receive a special gift from Santa upon completion, and the opportunity for early access to photos with Santa after the run. Stick around for the FREE event which includes a pictures with Santa and a chance to see a live reindeer.
Craft Bazaar December 9
The Colony High School is holding its first annual Holiday Gift Bazaar. Bring the whole family and get all of your holiday shopping done between 9am and 3pm on Saturday, December 9. The small gym at the high school will be filled with arts, crafts including jewelry, retail and more.
Christmas Parade December 2 The Huffines Auto Dealerships present the Lewisville Christmas Parade on December 2 at 12:30 p.m. The
day begins with a pancake breakfast and photobuttons with Santa at 8am at the MCL Grand, followed by a
Motorcycle Toy Run through Old Town Lewisville at
Pose in a Snow Globe Are you looking for a unique photo opportunity? Come to downtown Carrollton and take a picture in the Carrollton Snow Globe. This 15 foot globe is a great experience for the whole family. Bring your camera and
11:15am and finally, a good old fashioned parade.
your best smile. It all happens in downtown Carrollton
information go to cityoflewisville.com.
information to go to cityofcarrollton.com.
It’s a great morning of fun for the family! For more
from 11am until 3pm at 1106 S. Broadway St. For more
Inside Education Perfect Attendance = Car For the second year, Hebron High School and Lone Star Toyota of Lewisville will give away a car to a student with perfect attendance over the 2017-2018 school year. One ticket can be earned for perfect attendance during a grading period, plus one additional ticket for no tardies. A total of 10 finalists will be selected and the student whose key starts the engine wins the vehicle.
MLK Be the Change Contest In all LISD schools, the 25th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Art, Essay and Photography Contests is going on now. All work must be original and relate to Dr. King’s ideals, philosophy, principles and incorporate this year’s theme: Embrace Unity: Be the Change! Students in fourth-through-twelfth grade are eligible to participate. Deadline: Friday Dec. 15, 2017. Go to lisd.net for more rules and information.
Events & News November 25th 4-7pm Holiday in the Plaza Activities Include: Photo Op with Santa Christmas Monkey Face Painting Petting Zoo Games Inflatable 66ft Tree Lighting With a Special Performance by the Hebron High School Choir.
photo courtesy of Polser Elementary facebook
Hebron Band was Named 2nd Place at the Bands of America in San Antonio
Educator of the Month Every month the staff at Polser Elementary nominates a deserving staff member as the Educator of the Month. For the month of October, the staff nominated Ms. Morgan, a special education teacher who has been at Polser for almost three years. Ms. Morgan is known for always going above and beyond for her students and gets rave reviews from all of the parents. Congratulations Ms. Morgan!
IES Giving Tree The Independence Elementary School Giving Tree will be up on November 27th. Pick an ornament and buy gifts to help make the holidays brighter for an LISD family. This is a great opportunity to teach your kids what the holidays are all about. Pick an ornament and take your children shopping with you to find the perfect gifts for kids in need this holiday season.
The Colony High School Girls Golf Team Finished 3rd Place in The Fighting Farmer Fall Invitational at Indian Creek
November 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 25
Family
Hebron Volleyball:
Rollins
named All-American by Steve Gamel
H
ebron senior outside hitter Adanna Rollins was recently named a first-team All-American by Under Armour earlier this month. Rollins, a Minnesota signee, was one of 23 players from Texas to make the list. Teammate Annie Benbow was listed as an honorable mention.
According to a press release from Under
standout player after standout player. The
Brandeis), Briana Garcia (League City
submitted, resulting in 150 All-American
and repeated in 2010, 2015 and 2016.
Koele (The Woodlands), Lydia Niebla (San
Armour, more than 620 nominations were and Honorable Mention All-Americans. Rollins, along with the rest of the first-team honorees, were automatically invited
program won its first state title in 2004,
Other players from Texas who made the Under Armour All-American
list were Holly Campbell
(Austin Westlake), Capri
to play in the Under
Antonio Reagan), Ryan Palmieri (Austin
Vandegrift), Chloe Robinson (Amarillo), Lauren Teske (Schertz Clemens), and Sophie Walls (The Woodlands).
Davis (Mansfield Lake
Armour All-America
Ridge), E’lan McCall
Volleyball match
(Leander Rouse),
slated for December
Camryn Ennis (San
15 at the Sprint Center
Antonio Reagan), Carly
in Kansas City as part of
Graham (Conroe Oak
Ridge), Ava Bell (Leander
Rollins and Benbow were effective in
Rouse), Katie Clark (Arlington), Whitney
opened in 1999, it has consistently been
Rachel Langs (Lovejoy), Madison Baptiste
leading Hebron this season. Since Hebron regarded as one of the top teams in its classification because of head coach Karen Keeney’s ability to churn out
| November 2017
Foreman (Houston Langham Creek),
(Austin Westlake), Elissa Barbosa (San
Antonio Reagan), Shanel Bramschreiber (Lovejoy), Emily Dewalt (San Antonio
Adanna Rollins
Annie Benbow
photos courtesy of Larry Yates
the 2017 AVCA Convention.
26 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS
Clear Falls), Haley Killinger (Prosper), AJ
How Do You Prevent
Counseling | Family
Holiday Stress?
T
he holiday season is almost upon us and soon the to-do list will get longer. There will be the mandatory
holiday parties, children’s school
performances, shopping for the must have toys of the season and the all-knowing impending stress to have a perfect holiday. The business of the
Another way to keep stress at bay is to
keep things in perspective and remember what is important to your family. Things don’t have to be perfect and children DO NOT have to have the ”it” gift of the season to have a memorable holiday. In addition, self-care is
holiday season can take a toll on our wellbeing and how we
handle stress. So how can we handle holiday
stress well and not
let the Grinch steal our holiday joy?
First, setting realistic
Things don’t have to be perfect and children DO NOT have to have the ”it” gift of the season to have a memorable holiday.
expectations about the
holidays can help one be
more flexible and learn to let
the little things go. When mishap occurs such as burnt cookies or having to find
last minute gifts, turn those mishaps into a great family memory. Instead of trying to take on everything, identify what’s most important on the holiday to do
list and take small steps to accomplish those things.
vital when times are more stressful. When we practice selfcare we are then able to handle stressors more effectively and be more present in the important moments.
Several examples of self-care include having restful sleep, saying no when you need to, exercising, taking deep breaths, and, most importantly, prioritizing. If you would like help with living well, we encourage you to start the conversation. Live well. Let us help.
by Laura Nelson, MA, LPC Lifeworks businessoffice@lifeworkscc.com
November 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 27
Family
Signing Day
M
any high school athletes sign a letter of intent to commit to play their sport in college. In
high school, there are two major signing days each year, one in November and the other in February. Hebron High School had five athletes sign a letter of intent in the country. Four of these athletes were members of varsity volleyball team. The following Hebron High School
Students have signed letters of intent: Annie Benbow – Volleyball
Dallas Baptist University Dallas, TX Lauren Merrill – Volleyball College of William and Mary Williamsburg, VA Adanaa Rollins – Volleyball University of Minnesota Minneapolis, MN Serena Shah – Golf
University of San Diego
Southern Methodist University
San Diego, CA
Dallas, TX
28 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS
| November 2017
photography by John Ousby photography
November, committing to schools all over
Carly Earnest– Volleyball
November 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 29
Family
Signing Day
S
igning Day is a very exciting day for high school athletes all over the country. It is the time when they sign their letter of intent to play their sport in college. Four athletes at The Colony High School signed letters of intent at schools in the Midwest. Three are from the baseball team while one is a soccer player. The following The Colony High School Students have signed letters of intent:Â Baseball Cameron Hill Fort Scott Community College Fort Scott, KS Keegan Sueltz Fort Scott Community College Fort Scott, KS
Soccer Lori Baugh East Central University Ada, OK 30 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS
| November 2017
photos courtesy of TCHS Baseball
Jordan Olivera Hesston College Hesston, KSÂ