Spring Klein Magazine: Early Winter 2017 Vol.6 No.1

LOCALLY

SPRING KLEIN MAGAZINE

New Year 2017

VOL. 6, NO. 1

Organize

room by room Let a professional help organize

your home and life

20 ways to live

life to the fullest

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SPRING KLEIN MAGAZINE

NEW YEAR 2017 VOL. 6, NO. 1

Neighborhood Publications LLC 9337 Spring Cypress Road, Suite #205 Spring, Texas 77379

www.springkleinmagazine.com Editor Leanne Donelson

Head Writer Candy Cruz

Assistant Editor Candy Cruz Contributing Writers Candy Cruz, Josh Arcemont

Social Media Editor Madi Wheeler

Graphics Photography Mike Reeves Audree Garcia, Kellie Cataldo

Publisher Neighborhood Publications

No matter how you feel about resolutions, chances are most of us are looking to kick off 2017 on a good note. Over the New Year, many people made resolutions, to make themselves better, have a happier life and not surprisingly, lose weight and exercise more. And why not? Exercising is a great way to maintain a healthy mind and body. It is an undeniable fact that by exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy weight, we are less prone to lifestyle diseases, depression and just simply feel better about ourselves.

Whether you want to exercise more, eat healthier, stress less, booze less, lose weight, quit smoking, manage money better, get more sleep, learn a new skill, or go green (phew!), these hints and tips will help, guide and support your efforts. Here’s to a happy and healthy New Year!

And when it comes to New Year’s Resolutions remember what Master Yoda said “Do. Or Do Not. There is no try.”

Thank you, Leanne Donelsom Neighborhood Publications DISCLAIMER: All articles, information, website addresses and cartoons in this publication express the opinions of their authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Neighborhood Publications LLC or its employees. Neighborhood Publications LLC is not responsible for the accuracy of any facts stated in articles, information website address and cartoons submitted by others. The Publisher Neighborhood Publications also assumes no responsibility for the advertising content with this publication and ad warranties, representations and endorsements made in the advertising content are solely that of the advertiser and any such claims regarding it’s content should be taken up with the advertiser. Neighborhood Publications LLC disclaims and denies any and all liability, therefore The publisher Neighborhood Publications LLC assumes no liability with regard to its advertisers for misprints or failure to place advertising in this publication except for the actual cost of such advertising. Although every effort is taken to avoid mistakes and /or misprints in this publication, the publisher assumes no responsibility for any errors of information or typographical mistakes. Under no circumstances shall the publisher be held liable for incidental or consequential damages, inconvenience, loss of business or services, or any other liabilities from failure to publish, or from failure to publish on a timely manner. This is not an official publication of your particular subdivision, (although we print more interesting information and take better photos) and your particular subdivision does not endorse, affiliate or associate itself or its affiliates with this publication. Neighborhood Publications and it’s Associate Publications/Business Interest, whether business or person, do not accept any assumed benefit of the QR Bar Code Readers/Bar Codes, etc. published in any of the Neighborhood Publications or it’s affiliate publications whether in print or electronic. The publisher is not liable for ANY DAMAGES for failure of the Post Office to deliver the magazine in a timely manner, so long as the publisher has delivered the magazine to said delivery point by the contracted date. All articles and photos in this publication are copyrighted.

PUBLISHED BY: Neighborhood Publications, 9337 Spring Cypress Road, Suite 205, Spring, Texas 77379.

4 Neighborhood Publications

8 Organize room by room 9 CALENDAR OF EVENTS 10 ADVICE FROM CANDY

Social Media Resolutions 11 Simple ways to spend less 12 Let a professional help organize your

home and life 13 Did you know?

14 Learn something new today 15 The Origins of Groundhog Day 16 Different ways to spend more time

as a family 18 20 ways to live life to the fullest 19 Heart-healthy foods for the year ahead 20 A Beautiful Smile 22 How to improve relationships 24 Treat yourself to some much needed pampering 25 BEADS – An Essential Element Of

Mardi Gras 26 Teach kids financial lessons for

the new year 27 How choclate became tied to

Valentine’s Day 28 Healthy resolutions for the new year 29 Super Bowl LI (51) 34 Emotional Content . . . NOT ANGER 37 Sister From Another Mister 38 Guide to restaurant tipping 39 Charcuterie Meats For Perfect

Super Bowl Party Paninis 26

15

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6 Neighborhood Publications

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Neighborhood Publications 7

Organize

room by room

STEP 3: Schedule your cleaning days.

It may take a couple of sessions to get certain rooms clean, so plan ahead for that. For example, you may need a day to sort and toss items, another day to prep the room with organizational enhancements and yet another to put everything back.

Separating tasks into manageable sessions will help you reach smaller goals that eventually add up to your larger goal of getting more organized.

Plan project days when you can devote time with few, if any, distractions. You may want to ask a friend or family member to take care of your children or pets for a few hours while you are tackling your tasks.

Organizing around the trash pickup schedule can help, too. This way discarded items are quickly out of sight and out of mind.

STEP 4: Prepare your day.

A closet organizational system can be a handy part of a person’s plans to get organized.

W

hile resolving to lose weight or quit smoking are popular New Year’s resolutions, many people decide the dawn of a new year is a great time to get organized.

The holiday season can interfere with one’s ability to stay organized.

The arrival of new gifts, decorations decking the halls and overnight guests can make it seem like rooms have been turned upside down. But the end of the holiday season provides a great chance to sort through belongings and start organizing in earnest.

Men and women who want to get organized can consult with a professional organizer or tackle the job on their own, potentially enlisting the help of others in the household.

STEP 1: Assess the damage.

It can be difficult to get organized without first taking inventory of your home. Go through all of the rooms in the house and decide what your goals for each room are, jotting those goals down as you go.

8 Neighborhood Publications

See if the rooms have more storage potential than you’re utilizing, particularly those rooms that are overrun with items. Storage can include shelves on walls, new furniture or modified closet spaces. Again, jot down your ideas so you can refer back to them later on.

STEP 2: Set up a sorting plan.

Organizing may involve sorting through belongings and getting rid of things you no longer use. One of the easier ways to handle sorting is to purchase three different containers or make three different piles. The first one will hold items you will keep, the second includes items that can be sold or donated and the last will house items that you will discard or recycle.

Separating belongings in this manner can help you stay on task and remove some of the stress from getting organized. Simply move the containers that are no longer needed from the room when you’re ready to organize the remaining belongings.

Have all of your necessary equipment on hand in advance of Day 1.

This eliminates having to go on the search for supplies, which can prove distracting. Make sure you are well rested and have eaten a hearty meal.

Set an alarm for how long you want the organizational session to go. If you work until you reach the point of fatigue, you may not be inclined to finish on another day.

STEP 5: Reward yourself.

Every time you finish an organizational session or goal, treat yourself to something nice, such as a dinner out or a massage. Choose something relaxing that makes you happy.

STEP 6: Repeat the process.

When one room is organized, establish your plan for the next room. Once you see the success that comes from the first room, you can use that as motivation to do the others at your own pace.

Getting organized may take some time, but it can be well worth the reward when a home is clean and everything has a place.

To advertise, call 281-401-9143 or email: info@NeighborhoodPublications.net

Calendar of Events Chevron Houston Marathon January 15, 2017 George R. Brown Convention Center 1001 Avenida De Las Americas, Houston, 77010 (713) 957-3453 This annual 26.2, 13.1 and 3.1 mile run, which begins and ends at downtown’s George R. Brown Convention Center, has steadily grown to attract more than 20,000 entrants from around the world and 200,000 spectators.

Boogie Bash at The Woodlands Children’s Museum January 17, 2017 4775 W Panther Creek Dr, The Woodlands, 77381 11:00 am Admission: $6 (281) 465-0955 Boogie Bash provides children with a preliminary introduction to the space around them, encourages cooperation, promotes social interaction, develops a sense of rhythm, strengthens listening skills and enhances language development.

The Houston Pancakes & Booze Art Show January 20, 2017 Warehouse Live (713) 225-5483 813 St. Emanuel St., Houston, TX 77003 8:00 to 11:55 pm Admission: $5 We focus on keeping the work on display local and original to help artists of all types sell their work while they’re still alive (why does it take dying to gain recognition?). Each show usually features between 50-150 local artisans, a unique lineup of live musicians and/or DJs, live painting, body painting, along with other forms of entertainment. Oh, and of course PANCAKES! Hops n’ Hot Sauce Festival January 21, 2017 Spindle Tap Brewery 10622 Hirsch Road, Houston, TX 77016 (713) 325-1477 11:00 am to 6:00 pm Admission: $10 for adults, $3 for ages 6-10, free with adult admission for ages 5 and under We will have over 50 vendors, 6-8 food trucks, kids entertainment area, live entertainment, and a safe jalapeño-eating contest. Come join in the fun!

Arbor Day at Hughes Landing January 28, 2017 Hughes Landing Blvd – The Woodlands, 77380 10:00 am – 2:00 pm Admission: Free They will have a variety of free tree seedlings, free inflatable rides, live music and much more! Fun for the whole family.

Lunar New Year Houston 2017 February 5, 2017 8388 Sam Houston Parkway VIET HOA International Foods (713) 861-8270 1714 Tannehill Drive, Houston, 77008 11:00 am to 7:00 pm Admission: Free

Dubbed the largest Asian celebration in the state, this visually striking Lunar New Year Festival in Houston is a Texas-sized Asian New Year extravaganza showcasing the rich diversity of the region.

This two-day signature event features the authentic New Year tradition with 100+ Lions & Dragons dancing amid ferocious fireworks, world-class martial arts, tempting egg rolls, sweet rice & BBQ, drum performances, KidZone inflatables, hands-on children’s activities, and grand displays of one million Lucky Red Firecrackers.

GoGames360 Houston 2017 February 10 – 12, 2017 Recurring daily at Legends Sports Complex 602 Pruitt Road, The Woodlands, 77380 (866) 582-5422 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm Admission: 10 & Under FREE/ 11-13 years $10.00/ $25.00 Fri & Sun/ $35.00 Sat/ $65.00 3-days (includes Fri/ Sat all-nighters) 40 hours of gaming! Come play hundreds of video games, board games, & physical games! Kids from 3 years to 100 years welcome. Games from around the world: Laser & Archery Tag, Obstacle Course, Board Games, Lego Gallery, Dance-athon, Ping Pong, Hamsterball Soccer, Plus Video Game and Board Game Tournaments.

Houston Gun Collectors Association Gun and Antique Show February 11, 2017 NRG Park – One NRG Park, Houston, TX 77054 (713) 416-2128 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Admission: $10 for adults 18+ ($2 off coupons available on www.hgca.org); children 10years17years $5; children under 12 years - Free The Houston Gun Collectors Association was established in 1950 with a goal to create and perpetuate an association of mutual benefit to all of its membership interested in the collection, preservation, history and use of all types of arms and their accessories, to sponsor gun shows for the benefit for its membership and the public and to maintain the highest standards through the promotion of fellowship, friendly competition and goodwill among its membership.

5K Run Dead Zombie Run February 11, 2017 Sugar Land Memorial Park 15300 University Blvd Sugar Land, TX 77479 1:00 pm www.5KRunDead.com Runners will endure a 5K run through a zombieinfested course. Test your speed, endurance, and strength while trying to avoid ravenous zombies!

Runners will have flags that represent their health.

Zombies will try to steal those flags. Runners must make it to the finish line with at least one flag or become one of the walking dead!

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Cupid’s Undie Run February 11, 2017 2403 Bagby Street, Houston, 77006 12:00 to 4:00 pm Admission: $25-$55 This Valentine’s Day weekend, come put the hilarity in charity with hundreds of half-naked runners taking to the streets in celebration of their fundraising for the Children’s Tumor Foundation. Be a part of something great. Last year Cupid’s raised over $2.8 Million to #EndNF and we’re relying on YOU to join and make this year’s fundraising (and party) the biggest and best yet. Start a team, join a team, or just run solo and make some new friends!

Mardi Gras Galveston February 17, 2017 - February 28, 2017 Recurring daily – Downtown Galveston, TX 77553 Mardi Gras! Galveston is the third largest Mardi Gras celebration in the United States, attracting more than 300,000 attendees annually. The two-week celebration is best known for its lavish parades held on the streets of the city’s historic downtown and beachfront. The 2017 event is scheduled to be the biggest Mardi Gras! Galveston celebration yet with 26 parades and dozens of concerts, balcony parties, DJ laser shows, masked balls and more.

Dream Weddings Bridal Show The Woodlands February 19, 2017 The Woodlands Waterway Marriott, 1601 Lake Robbins Dr., The Woodlands, 77380 (713)747-9333 Admission: $15 at the door Find everything you need in one relaxed atmosphere. Wedding shows are a great way to meet wedding vendors that will work to achieve the goals you have set for your wedding day. This is a fun and exciting way to learn about wedding trends and fashions, as well as a great way to compare services, styles, and prices.

Houston’s Kosher Chili Cook-off February 26, 2017 Evelyn Rubenstein Jewish Community Center of Houston, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, 77096 (713) 588-4130 12:00 to 4:00 pm Admission: Adults: $10 Children (4-12): $6 Children under 4: Free The Kosher Chili Cook-off is the largest kosher food event in Houston and celebrates the fellowship of the Jewish community with a day of food, live entertainment, contests, and family friendly activities while raising funds for non-profit organizations in the Houston Jewish Community.

The cook-off attracts more than 3,500 attendees annually for live music, a moonwalk, climbing walls, balloon artists, a jalapeno eating contest and a silent auction as they taste some of Houston’s best kosher chili.

Neighborhood Publications 9

Advice From Candy Social Media Resolutions

The Internet and social media have revolutionized the way people spend their time. In the not-so-distant past, the sharing of information took considerable time. But now the instant a thought pops into a person’s head, it can immediately be broadcast and shared with the world.

According to the marketing and media resource Brandwatch, there were 2.3 billion active social media users as of 2015, and those users averaged 5.54 social media accounts apiece. A new social user is added every 12 seconds. Facebook says it adds 500,000 new users every day and six new profiles every second.

In addition, 500 million people visit Twitter each month.

Social media and Internet usage has become pervasive, so much so that some people have become addicted to it. Cornell Information Science has even published research that looked at the difficulty some people have in quitting Facebook

10 Neighborhood Publications

and other social networks. Professed “social media addicts” have described the need for social media as being as strong as a cigarette craving. Some people use social media at the expense of sleep, work and family. But even those who can control their social media habits may want to cut back on their usage, and the following are a handful of ways to do just that.

• Start cleaning out friend and follow lists. It won’t be social suicide if you begin streamlin ing your social media feeds.

Go through friend lists or who you are following and cut out the people with whom you do not regularly converse. Keep it to only the people with whom you care to remain updated.

• Think before you “tweet,” “post” or “snap.” Spend a few minutes really considering if the information you plan to share is

worth sharing. Chances are you can reserve social media use for a more important purpose than sharing another photo of your lunch. And although everyone is entitled to his or her opinions, before commenting consider if a comment has the potential to ignite an argument or lead to a lengthy discussion you don’t have the time or the desire to get involved with.

• Schedule social media time.

Instead of routinely checking your phone or tablet for social media updates, set up a time once or twice per day to check in. This way you control how and when you use the informa- tion. Similarly, turn off notifica tions so that you will not be tempted to look at your mobile device each time a tone is sounded.

• Keep some things a mystery.

Do not share locations or provide updates on vacations or travel plans in real time. This can be a security issue. Always exercise caution regarding the inform- tion you share. Making use of the privacy settings available to you may help you achieve your goal of reducing time spent on social media.

• Live in the moment. Put down phones and experience situations as they happen, rather than through a screen.

Cutting down on social media usage or using platforms more intelligently are common resolutions. A little diligence can make it possible to break the cycle of constant use.

And you will not feel obligated to be on on your phone 24/7.

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to track where you tend to spend the most. This gives you an accurate and fluid method to examine your spending.

Spend less on shopping sprees.

Some people use shopping as an emotional release or a method to relieve stress. If you like shopping but want to cut back on your spending, shop in less expensive stores, such as consignment or dollar stores.

This feeds your desire to shop without breaking the bank.

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hen people take inventory of their spending habits, many come to the conclusion that they need to scale back. Upon making that realization, many people immediately assume they need to give up certain luxuries. However, spending less on nonessential items may free up funds for more enjoyable activities, such as dining out and travel. Being frugal doesn’t mean you have to be a minimalist, and it’s easier than you might think. Explore these relatively easy methods to tame spending.

Use cash as much as possible.

Paying with cash can create an emotional feeling of loss and taps into your five senses. Taking cash from your wallet and handing it over to cashiers could slow down your subconscious spending, which is less likely to happen if you always swipe a credit or debit card.

Keep a spending log. Jot down your spending habits on a piece of paper or use home budgeting software

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Eliminate one monthly bill.

Find a way to cut out one monthly expense. If you’re not using that gym membership, cancel it. If you can’t find something to eliminate, find a way to cut back. Maybe you can scale back your mobile phone service plan. Downgrade your cable television package to one that’s more affordable.

Do things yourself. Consider the services you pay others to do that you may be able to do yourself.

If you’re handy with a paintbrush, paint your home interior. Have everyone pitch in to clean the house and scale back on housekeeping services.

Cook your own meals and rely less on takeout.

Transfer savings automatically.

Transfer a portion of your paycheck directly into a savings account. Set up automated transfers so the money never appears in the account linked to your debit card.

Pay bills on time. Do not waste money on late fees and penalties.

Use automatic bill pay so you don’t miss any payments and waste money on fees.

Neighborhood Publications 11

Let a professional help

organize your home and life

Professional organizers can help get your home or office in order.

M

any people routinely find themselves confronted with situations that could be made simpler if they were just a little more organized. Whether it’s lost keys, cramped cabinets or misplaced documents, minor yet inconvenient situations can be mitigated if not eliminated if men and women simply commit to being more organized.

Men and women who struggle with organization may be surprised to learn just how much time and productivity they lose to disorganization.

For example, a survey from Ikea found that men and women routinely spend six minutes just looking for their keys. When added up, that’s a substantial amount of time that can be put to better use.

Becoming more organized is a popular resolution come New Year’s Day, and many people benefit from hiring professional organizers to make their resolutions a reality.

Professional organizers can help men and women reduce clutter in their homes and offices and regain

12 Neighborhood Publications

control over their surroundings. Such professionals also can help solve organization problems, and that can help men and women reduce stress.

Professional organizers know which strategies work, but men and women should know that not all organizers are the same. Some organizers may work as a hobby or be part of a larger cleaning company, while others are certified in organization. When searching for an organizer, determine if he or she belongs to the National Association of Professional Organizers and/or if an organizer has been certified by the Board of Certification for Professional Organizers®. While certification may not be necessary to help you organize your home or business, certified organizers may have more experience.

Organizers may specialize in certain areas. Some deal with corporate and business organization, while others help with real estate staging.

Look for one who has experience working with people of your ilk.

Organizers will want to examine

clients’ situations before they develop a plan of action. Therefore, do not feel the need to prepare for the organizer’s arrival by cleaning up, as doing so may only mask the problems you’re having. The organizer will walk through your home or business and assess your needs. Many organizers will suggest you work with them to learn organizational strategies that you can implement on your own so you remain organized for years to come.

Check with the organizer to see what type of packages he or she offers. Some packages may be detailed, while others may just provide a foundation for you to become more organized.

Getting organized is more than just having a clean space. It’s about taking control of your environment and improving your quality of life.

Professional organizers can help accomplish that goal and keep you organized for years to come.

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Exercise is a great way to maintain a healthy mind and body. Many people begin a new year by making resolutions to lose weight or build muscle. Too often, however, men and women get stuck in an exercise rut, following the same exercise routine week after week. Not only can this be boring, fitness experts advise that it’s necessary to change an exercise routine periodically to continue to see results. It’s one reason why many fitness clubs unveil new classes every few weeks. Just when you master the choreography of a class, it’s time to change! With repetition, the body adapts and grows accustomed to the routine, using less energy as a result. That can affect your ability to lose weight. Changing your workout forces your body to work harder, producing better results. If you exercise with a trainer, discuss ways to modify your normal routine to surprise your body. Increased intensity, interval training, adding sprints to running, taking different classes, or even increasing the frequency of your workouts may do the trick.

To advertise, call 281-401-9143 or email: info@NeighborhoodPublications.net

Neighborhood Publications 13

Learn something

new today

H

ave you resolved to learn something new this year?

You’re not alone. Each year, millions of people resolve to expand their horizons and for the sake of a more fulfilling life.

It is one thing for adults decide to something new, but quite another to narrow down how you will enhance your knowledge or experiences. Don’t be discouraged by the adage that you can’t teach an old dog new tricks.

It’s never to late to move out of your comfort zone, and these ideas may help you do just that.

Learn a new language. If you have always dreamed of traveling internationally and speaking in a country’s native tongue, begin taking lessons. A Gallup Poll indicates that only about 25 percent of Americans can speak another language sufficiently enough to carry on a conversation, although many agree that knowing a second language is a good skill to have.

In addition to private tutors or classes at nearby community colleges, make use of foreign language apps and computer programs, which allow you to practice in the comforts of home. Depending on how much time you can devote to studying, it may be just a matter of a few months before you have mastered a new language.

How quickly you pick up a new language may be affected by your knowledge of other languages. For example, if you already speak Spanish, learning French or Italian maybe easier because of similarities between these widely spoken romance languages.

Take up a new sport or hobby.

Hobbies and sports appeal to all

14 Neighborhood Publications

types of people. Adults who never participated in sports as a child may find their interest piqued upon joining an adult league. Don’t underestimate your potential abilities on the playing fields or with regard to certain hobbies. Give painting, woodworking, papercrafting, and other hands-on hobbies a go and you may be surprised to discover the talent lies within.

Go back to school. Even if you already have a degree, don’t be hesitant to pursue additional education.

In 2013, a report in The Wall Street Journal indicated that just 29 percent of college students fit the “traditional” student mold. That means nontraditional students, many of whom are adults, make up the majority of students on campus. Many local

colleges and universities offer distance learning or adult education programs. Speak with a curriculum advisor about a particular school’s offerings and find out if you’re eligible for reduced tuition or financial aid.

See new sights. If travel is a passion of yours, make sure your passport is current and start making plans to visit areas of the world you have always wanted to visit. Perhaps there are particular ancient ruins you hope to see, or maybe you want to trace your genealogy back to your ancestral homeland.

Trying something new is easier than one may think, and it can make for a great resolution and a more fulfilling life with lots of precious memories.

To advertise, call 281-401-9143 or email: info@NeighborhoodPublications.net

The origins of

Groundhog Day Every year on February 2nd, people anxiously await the appearance of a medium-sized furry mammal who they believe can predict if winter weather will rage on or if spring will arrive sooner than later.

Although it’s a rather strange means of prognostication, millions of people celebrate Groundhog Day, a tradition that is older than many people may know.

The first official Groundhog Day took place on February 2, 1887 at Gobbler’s Knob in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. In the ensuing 130 years, individuals have gathered in Pennsylvania and other areas around the United States to find out if the groundhog will see his shadow. If the groundhog sees his shadow, winter will continue for six more weeks. If the groundhog does not see his shadow, then spring will arrive early.

Although the Groundhog Day of today is relatively new, the concept is actually quite old and dates back to the ancient Christian tradition of Candlemas. Candlemas is a Christian holiday commemorating the presentation of Jesus at the Temple.

Candlemas falls on the 40th day

of the Christmas/Epiphany period and is one of the oldest feasts of the Christian Church, celebrated since the 4th century in Jerusalem.

Around the 14th century in Europe, Candlemas began to overshine Pagan holidays like Lupercalia (Romans) and Imbolc (Celts). Rather than torches and blessings from goddesses, on Candlemas custom called for members of the clergy to bless candles and distribute them to the people to symbolize that Christ was the light of the world. Weath-

er played a role in the celebration of Candlemas. Rainy, wet weather was preferable because it suggested spring’s arrival was on the horizon.

Candlemas was celebrated in many parts of Europe and eventually spread to Germany, where animals were involved in the ceremony. Hedgehogs were plentiful in the area, and celebrants believed if they cast a shadow during fair weather on Candlemas, more bad weather was in store. Pennsylvania’s earliest settlers were German, and these immigrants brought their Candlemas traditions with them. But hedgehogs were not common in Pennsylvania, so settlers used groundhogs instead. Thus, the groundhog was seen as a wise and suitable substitute for prognostication.

Today’s celebrations include tens

To advertise, call 281-401-9143 or email: info@NeighborhoodPublications.net

of thousands of visitors from all around the world who travel to Pennsylvania to see Punxsutawney Phil in person. Phil has become a celebrity of sorts and has appeared on various television shows, on a jumbo screen in Times Square and as the star of the 1993 movie Groundhog Day. (Although the real Phil was not allowed to be in the movie because it was filmed in Illinois instead of Pennsylvania, and the Groundhog Day organizers were notably upset.)

Boasting a deeper history than many people may know, Groundhog Day will continue to delight revelers for years to come.

Neighborhood Publications 15

Different ways to spend time as a family

A

s members of modern families are increasingly pulled in different directions, it can be challenging for them to enjoy time together as families.

According to a report titled Spending Time with His Kids: Effects of Family Structure on Fathers’ and Children’s Lives in the Journal of Marriage and the Family, kids’ academic performance can benefit from having mothers who frequently communicate with them and fathers who spend time doing activities with their kids. Time spent together also can nourish a stronger emotional bond between parents and children, which may make children less likely to exhibit behavioral problems.

16 Neighborhood Publications

The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University states that teens who frequently have dinner with their families are less likely to smoke cigarettes, drink alcohol or try illegal substances.

Kids are not the only ones who benefit from more family time. Parents who regularly interact with their children may learn to appreciate their kids even more. They can see the subtle changes in personality and abilities as kids age, and be better equipped to intervene if they suspect their children are veering off the right path. Spending time with children can be fun, as well as mentally and physically stimulating.

more Parents who want to increase family time can do so in various ways.

Establish at least one day each week that the family catches up with one another. It may be a Friday evening or a Sunday afternoon. Choosing a day rather than winging it guarantees weekly time together.

Turn chores into opportunities to involve the kids. It may be faster to fold the laundry or rake the leaves by yourself. However, showing kids they are a part of a functioning household in which everyone does their part is an important lesson for youngsters to learn. Let kids know that once chores are finished the family can do something fun together. Such a lesson can instill a sense of responsibility in youngsters while also creating some family time.

Take a break from television or screen time on computers and mobile devices. The American Academy of Pediatrics discourages media use by children younger than two and recommends limiting older children’s screen time to no more than one or two hours a day. Too much screen time by children, and even adults, can result in irregular sleeping habits, behavioral problems, obesity, and less time for play or family interaction. Shutting off devices for a few hours frees up opportunities for families to engage in other activities.

Take a vacation together as a family and make sure you leave phones and tablets behind at the hotel so you can fully immerse yourself in your surroundings. It’s amazing what you might learn about one another when you are engaged in the same activity and are away from the distractions you routinely encounter back at home.

Eat at least one family meal together per day and use the opportunity to talk about what is going on in one another’s lives.

Creating more time for family can sometimes seem impossible, but parents can get creative to ensure they spend more time with their kids.

To advertise, call 281-401-9143 or email: info@NeighborhoodPublications.net

––––THE––––

RENEE

BUCKHOFF –– GROUP–– Nobody sells more real estate than RE/MAX

Renee Buckhoff BROKER/OWNER

281-639-5982

office 713-955-2510 renee@reneebuckhoff.com Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated

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Valid only at:

Hardware of Champions

281-251-0100

9001 Spring Cypress Road Spring, Texas 77379

www.acehardwareofchampions.com To advertise, call 281-401-9143 or email: info@NeighborhoodPublications.net

Neighborhood Publications 17

20 ways to live

life to the fullest

1. Throw a party on a rooftop in a bustling city or urban center.

2. Take a parent on his or her dream vacation.

3. Immerse yourself in the culture of a foreign country.

4. Go back to school to embark on a different career.

5. See the Northern Lights.

6. Become fluent in another language.

7. Go on safari and see endangered animals in their natural habitats.

8. Take friends on a skydiving adventure.

9. Drive cross-country.

10. Tour every continent.

11. Do a professional photo shoot with you as the model.

12. Meet your favorite actor, athlete and/or author.

13. Be an extra in a movie.

14. Publish a book of any sort.

15. Participate in a festival, such as running with the bulls or Oktoberfest, in the festivals’ countries of origin.

16. Dive at the Great Barrier Reef.

17. Fly a plane.

18. Gather your entire family together for the biggest family reunion yet.

19. Try a new hobby that is out of your comfort zone.

20. Travel to the top of the tallest building in the world.

T

ime is a precious commodity, which is why many people try to embrace life and live it to the fullest.

Although many people adopt the philosophy of living life to the fullest at a young age, this approach garnered greater attention thanks to a 2007 movie. Directed by Rob Reiner, The Bucket List, starring Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman introduced a larger audience to setting goals and doing as much as possible to make those goals a reality.

Freeman and Nicholson played two terminally ill men who set off to complete their personal to-do lists before their diseases catch up with them. The movie helped coin the term “bucket list,” which is a reference to things individuals want to do before they “kick the bucket.”

Although the two main characters in the film are terminally ill, the idea of creating a bucket list is something anyone hoping to live a full, adventurous life can do. In fact, several bucket list organizations have sprung up, and other groups help make trips and other goals happen. People can even meet up with others who share the same desires and do them together.

While anyone’s bucket list is a personal endeavor, there are some goals that are quite popular and desired by many.

The following are some ideas to get a person started.

18 Neighborhood Publications

To advertise, call 281-401-9143 or email: info@NeighborhoodPublications.net

Heart-healthy foods for the year ahead

A

ccording to the National Center for Health Statistics, heart disease is the leading causing of death in both men and women.

Certain factors beyond an individual’s control, such as family history and age, affect his or her risk of developing heart disease, but men and women are not helpless against heart disease.

Diet can be a friend or foe with regard to heart disease. A bad diet may elevate a person’s risk for high blood pressure, heart attack or stroke, while a diet rich in hearthealthy foods can lower that risk.

The following are a handful of heart-healthy foods for men and women who want to begin the new year on a nourishing foot.

Raisins: Researchers from the Louisville Metabolic and Atherosclerosis Research Center found that consuming raisins three times a day may significantly lower blood pressure among individuals with mild increases in blood pressure. Raisins can help combat the growth of a type of bacteria that causes gum disease, which few people may know is linked to heart disease. In lieu of reaching for cookies or potato chips

Regularly consuming raisins may help lower your blood pressure. come snack time, opt for heart-healthy raisins instead.

Salmon: Though its label as a fatty fish may lead some to question its nutritional properties, salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can decrease a person’s risk of developing an abnormal heartbeat (arrhythmia), slightly lower blood pressure and slow the growth of atherosclerotic plaque, the buildup of which can contribute to heart attack, stroke or even death. Albacore tuna, herring and lake trout are additional examples of heart-healthy fatty fish.

Whole grains: Whole grains help men and women maintain healthy weights while lowering their risk for heart disease, making them perfect dietary additions for anyone who resolves to lose weight and protect their heart in the year ahead. According to the American Heart Association, whole grains, such as whole wheat, oats/oatmeal, rye, barley, and brown rice, are great sources of dietary fiber, while refined grains like white rice and

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enriched bread contain little fiber.

That’s an important distinction, as dietary fiber can improve blood cholesterol levels and lower risk of heart disease and stroke.

Tomatoes: Researchers at Boston’s Tufts University analyzed more than a decade’s worth of data in an effort to discover the effects of lycopene, which is the antioxidant responsible for giving tomatoes their familiar red color, on the cardiovascular system. They ultimately discovered that people who regularly consumed foods with lycopene over an 11-year period reduced their risk of coronary heart disease by 26 percent.

The lycopene found in tomatoes may be even more accessible when they are cooked.

Aspiring to eat healthier is a goal for many people come the dawn of a new year. For more information about heart-healthy foods, visit www.heart.org.

Neighborhood Publications 19

A Beautiful Smile F

or many people, going to the dentist can become an overwhelming experience. Yet for patients of Dr. Koutrach, it is the promise of a better life through a beautiful smile. Bella Vita Smiles helps improve their patient’s lifestyles by providing high quality treatments and giving them the proper knowledge to maintain good oral health. This further allows them to have a beautiful smile and ultimately build their confidence in life.

Today, there are many options on what can actually be done to improve the appearance of a person’s smile, and at any age. From the powerful and professional teeth whitening treatments, to the amazingly realistic porcelain veneers, to state-of-the-art dental implants, there is a wide range of exciting possibilities and Dr. Koutrach will help you find the treatment that best suits you.

The staff at Bella Vita Smiles is dedicated at the highest level to Prosthodontics, which is the practice of reconstructive, esthetics, and implants dentistry.

Dr. Koutrach believes, “Restoring optimal esthetic and function for patients is a purpose we truly value

because of the trans-formative impact it has upon their lives.” He wants to not only bring beautiful smiles to his patients, but also teach the importance of oral health.

It is important to realize, that with over 25 years of experience in private practice and education, he is inspired to continue the technological strides in his field and practice. To ensure this can be done, he is currently

20 Neighborhood Publications

an Associate Clinical Professor at the department of Prosthodontics at the University of Texas Health Science in Houston, gives lectures in his field and has written articles for dental journals. It is easy to see how this high level of respect and appreciation for education benefits his patients.

The first step in any beautiful smile is a thorough dental examination to make sure that your oral health is at its best. Once your oral health has been established,

Mo Koutrach, D.D.S, F.A.C.P. Prosthodontics General Dentistry

your smile can be cosmetically enhanced in a variety of ways. Furthermore, Bella Vita Smiles promises the best treatment for your specific situation. This could be a simple filling or a single crown, to the most advanced dental reconstruction. Each problem is addressed with continued

To advertise, call 281-401-9143 or email: info@NeighborhoodPublications.net

the same high level of precision and accuracy. Dr. Koutrachs skills combined with the art of beautiful dentistry is the formula for success in achieving both a beautiful smile and ideal function. He understands that people have different circumstances, and believe that those differences must be considered and respected during the development of their treatment plan for you.

When to Visit the Dentist Make your preventative dental appointment regularly! Many people only go to the dentist when something is wrong. Dr. Koutrach says, “Regular dental visits are essential to make sure oral health problems, from tooth decay to oral cancer, are detected and treated in a timely manner.” Some individuals may need to see the dentist more often than others to stay on top of problems like plaque buildup and gum disease, but everyone should go twice per year.

At Bella Vita Smile, your regular dental visits will include a thorough oral exam to check the health of your teeth and gums, oral cancer screening to spot any suspicious areas and a professional cleaning to remove stubborn deposits and make your teeth look and feel great. Don’t miss out on the many benefits that a visit to your dental hygienistist can offer you and your family!

Your Bella Vita Smile Makeover The most important job you have as a member of your own smile makeover team is to communicate exactly what you don’t like about your smile and how you’d like it to be different. Before the first consultation, please give some thought to the following questions: What do you like or dislike about the color, size, shape and spacing of your teeth?

Are you pleased with how much your teeth show, both when you smile and when your lips are relaxed?

Do you want teeth that are perfectly aligned and a bright “Hollywood White,” or would you prefer a more natural look with slight color, shape and shade variations?

Cosmetic, Prosthodontics & General Dentistry Procedures Modern dentistry offers a wide range of services to make sure your teeth stay healthy, function well and look great. These procedures include: n Cosmetic Bonding, to repair small chips, cracks or cavities. n Porcelain Veneers, for creating a perfect smile. n Teeth Whitening, to brighten a faded or discolored smile. n Dental Implants, for the longest-lasting tooth replacement available today. n Crowns & Bridgework, to replace large amounts of lost tooth structure and/or missing teeth.

Would you like more or less of your gums to show when you smile?

It is extremely helpful for you to bring in pictures you have collected — of smiles you like, smiles you don’t like, photos of the way your own smile used to look, if that’s the result you’re aiming for. Now is the time to get started on creating a smile that will make you feel as good as you look!

Dr. Koutrachs goal is to help you to preserve your natural teeth as long as possible, ensure your oral health, and keep you looking and feeling great throughout life.

n Removable Dentures and Partials n Cleanings & Oral Exams, to keep your teeth and gums healthy, and catch early signs of dental disease. n Oral Cancer Screenings, to detect a dangerous disease that can be cured if caught early. n TMJ Treatment, for pain in the jaw area that can interfere with biting and chewing.

To advertise, call 281-401-9143 or email: info@NeighborhoodPublications.net

(281) 764-6970

8111 Cypresswood Drive, Suite 101 • Spring, TX 77379 Website: bellavitasmiles.com

Neighborhood Publications 21

How to

improve relationships

R

elationships can bring out the best in people, especially when couples share similar interests and goals. But even the most solid relationships can be put to the test by those bumps in the road that everyone faces from time to time.

Just as men and women must work to build strong physiques in the gym, they also must put forth effort to strengthen their relationships. People who aspire to strengthen communication with their partners and improve conflict resolution can benefit from a number of strategies.

Don’t expect a mind reader.

Do not wait for your partner to spell out how he or she is feeling, or you may never get to the root of a given issue. You must start the conversation before real change can begin.

Find a time when you are both rested, well fed and not distracted by any other responsibilities. Allow your partner to express his or her feelings and then explain your needs as well.

Curtail criticism and blaming.

According to experts at The Family

22 Neighborhood Publications

Communication and a willingness to work together are keys to building strong relationships. & Marriage Counseling Directory™, criticizing is the adult version of crying. It’s a method of relieving stress and showing distress. But inflicting pain on others will not get them to bend to your wishes.

Keep outside interests a priority. Your spouse, boyfriend or girlfriend cannot provide for all of your needs. Expecting him or her to fill every role can lead to tension.

Having outside friends, interests and a social network is a healthy idea.

Just try to find a balance between that world and the world inside your home.

Spend quality time together.

As relationships evolve and jobs, children and other influences are mixed in, it can be challenging to find the time to spend with each other and no one else. Make this a priority, as The HelpGuide.com team, a group of seasoned mental health professionals and writers, says time spent together is critical

for your relationship. Without quality time your ability to communicate may begin to erode.

Consider professional help.

Seeking the advice of a counselor, whether a licensed social worker or physiologist, is not a sign of weakness. It just means you are willing to do whatever you need to foster a strong relationship. A therapist may suggest strategies you never thought of, which can be useful for growing closer and/or resolving problems.

Laugh whenever possible.

Try to put a positive spin on anything. Jokes and laughter (not snarkiness) can diffuse tense situations.

Look to laughter as a way to bond with your partner.

Focus on being caring. Do nice things for your partner without requiring anything in return.

Remember what your partner likes and begin doing those things again.

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#thefir mu Get ready for the New Year with this incredible fat blasting offer! Come in and get a 1 hour fitness assessment & training session at The FIRM U for FREE ($99 value). A perfect way to kick off your fitness goals for the New Year like James did pictured above.

The Firm U Studio is not your typical gym or health facility. We are the only one of its kind. We’ve taken the doctor’s and nutritionist’s office and placed them under one roof in a private personal training studio located on the corner of Spring Cypress and Champions Forest in Spring.

Services we provide:

• Personal Training • Nutrition Classes

• Hormonal Balance Testing • Strawberry Laser Lipo Treatment

To get permanent results this New Year, visit: www.TheFirmU/contact/ or call: 832-755-1949 8714 Spring Cypress Road, Ste. 100, Spring, TX 77379 TheFirmU.com

Great for Mom or Home School Meet-Ups!

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www.palavallc.com www.facebook.com/palavallc To advertise, call 281-401-9143 or email: info@NeighborhoodPublications.net

Neighborhood Publications 23

Treat yourself to

some much-needed pampering

T

he daily grind sometimes is exhausting. In fact, a poll from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the Harvard School of Public Health found that 49 percent of Americans reported having a major stressful event or experience in the past year, and 26 percent of people said they had a “great deal” of stress.

In small amounts, stress can push a person to act and grow. But constant stress can become debilitating and has been linked to a compromised immune system and other unhealthy side effects. This is why a number of people resolve to reduce stress.

In addition to taking on fewer responsibilities, engaging in some activities to promote a relaxed mind and body can help alleviate stress and tension. Though the term “pampering” may not appeal to everyone, a day of pampering might be just what you need to relieve stress and unwind.

Get a full-body massage.

Licensed massage therapists have the training and knowledge to work the kinks out of your muscles and ease aches and pains. Massage therapy works tension out of the body and can help release feel-good endorphins. A massage can improve circulation and help reduce blood pressure. It’s difficult to walk out of a spa without feeling relaxed.

Schedule a manicure and pedicure appointment. If you do not have time for a full massage, having your hands and feet pampered can be a good substitute. Manicures and pedicures are not just for ladies, either. Men can indulge and opt for no nail polish. Many salons offer different types of manicures and pedicures, depending on personal preference. Spa treatments may include warm paraffin wax or hot stones to further ease pain and enhance the pleasure of the experience.

is away from the hustle and bustle of where you live. Such a respite can provide a welcome change. New scenery and a chance to escape the daily grind can effectively relieve stress. Consider low-tech accommodations and turn your phone or tablet off for a few days.

Try relaxing aromatherapy.

Aromatherapy is the use of aromatic plant extracts and essential oils to elicit mental and physical responses.

Lavender is a relaxing scent that can be used during a massage or in baths to induce a sense of calm.

Experiment with other scents and oils to achieve the desired result.

Laugh with friends. Plan a friends’ night where you can go out for drinks and conversation or huddle around the television and watch your favorite comedy. Laughter is often a great medicine for stress, as is the company of other people who can provide some comic relief.

Take a retreat. Schedule a trip to a resort or even a small hotel that

24 Neighborhood Publications

To advertise, call 281-401-9143 or email: info@NeighborhoodPublications.net

Beads

Beads and other “throws” are traditional components of Mardi Gras revelry.

An Essential Element Of Mardi Gras Mardi Gras beads are an enduring symbol of the carnival celebration.

Revelers will wait in crowds along parade routes eager to catch the beads that are tossed down upon them.

The meaning behind Mardi Gras beads has never been entirely clear. In fact, the beads take on different meanings depending on the person. Some people associate the beads with good luck, while others believe the “jewelry” is reminiscent of royalty who could afford lavish baubles. The less fortunate would stand on the side of roads

begging for trinkets from the wealthy, and the phrase, “throw me something, mister” can still be heard during Mardi Gras celebrations. Others view the beads as a form of currency that could buy favors from others, perhaps even a glimpse of flesh during more raucous celebrations.

Mardi Gras beads were once made of glass, but less expensive plastic beads are now used. Some Mardi Gras festivities feature large, novelty beads that tie into a particular theme.

Beads are just one of the many

types of “throws” cast to partygoers during Mardi Gras. Krewes, or carnival organizations that are part of parade planning, may also toss doubloons, money and other trinkets.

Some krewes also have other events, such as private dances or parties, that may or may not feature the distribution of throws. Krewes also are responsible for electing the king of the parade. The Rex Krewe, founded in 1872, is one of the premier krewes of the Mardi Gras celebration. Their traditional colors are purple, green and gold, which have become the official colors of Mardi Gras Carnival. Their throws, including specially struck coins like the gold Rex doubloon, are sought-after pieces.

Many of the traditions associated with Mardi Gras have ancient origins.

Many of the festivities enjoyed in New Orleans, one of the more popular places to enjoy Carnival, include French customs brought by early settlers to the area. Since Mardi Gras is the last day before the start of the Christian Lenten season, which is a time of repentance and remembrance of Christ’s ultimate sacrifice, revelers engage in a final party before the solemnity of Lent. Early celebrations and processions were impromptu, but over time Mardi Gras festivities became more orderly and were planned months in advance.

Several different traditions culminate to form the Mardi Gras celebrations enjoyed today. Parades, parties, cakes, and feasting are some of the enjoyable activities, but Mardi Gras beads remain one of the quintessential symbols of the Carnival.

Spring•Klein Magazine’s Social Media Corner!

We love connecting with our Spring Klein Readers on Social Media.

If you have favorite photos you would like to share with our followers and staff, please send them to us at: info@NeighborhoodPublications.net.

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Neighborhood Publications 25

Teach kids

financial lessons for the new year

A

t the dawn of a new year, many adults resolve to make positive changes in the year ahead. But New Year’s resolutions aren’t exclusive to adults. In fact, New Year’s resolutions provide a great opportunity for parents to teach their kids about setting goals and maintaining the discipline necessary to realize those goals.

Many adults express a desire to save more money when making their New Year’s resolutions. Parents who want to instill financial responsibility in their children and encourage youngsters to save money right alongside mom and dad can do so in various ways.

Start giving kids an allowance in return for doing their chores.

A great way to teach kids about money management is to give them an allowance in return for doing their weekly chores. This teaches kids that they must earn their money and also teaches them to budget. Resist the temptation to give kids extra money or advances on their allowances, as doing so can compromise the lesson that kids need to budget.

Encourage kids to establish specific financial goals. Kids can benefit just like adults by setting specific financial goals. If kids have their eye on a new gadget or gaming console, encourage them to create a savings log that tracks how much they’re saving each week and how close they are getting to reaching

26 Neighborhood Publications

their goal. As kids’s balances increase and they get closer to their goal, they may grow just as excited as adults do when they see their investments perform well.

Match kids’ contributions.

Another great way to encourage kids to save money is to match the deposits they make into their accounts.

Whether it’s teenagers saving for their first car or younger kids saving for a new bike, kids may be more likely to save if they know their contributions are being matched.

Parents can explain that matching is not just for kids, as many moms and dads benefit from employers who match their retirement contributions.

Let kids make mistakes.

Everyone makes mistakes, especially when it comes to money. Many adults feel the best financial lessons they learned were a byproduct of a mistake they made that forced them to reexamine their approach to money.

Letting kids make financial mistakes now may help them avoid bigger and more costly mistakes down the road.

Teach impulse control.

Another valuable financial lesson parents can instill in their kids is controlling their impulses with regard to spending. Many adults exercise impulse control by waiting 24 hours to make purchases. In this scenario, adults who see something they like online or in-store that they did not intend to buy will wait a day after seeing the item before deciding whether or not to purchase it. That 24-hour waiting period often prevents people from buying products they don’t need. Kids can benefit just as much from following this guideline.

In the interim between seeing the item and deciding whether or not to buy it, discuss with kids the pros and cons of buying the item. This can teach them to carefully consider each of their purchases, making them more responsible consumers for the rest of their lives.

New Year’s resolution season provides a great opportunity for parents to impart valuable financial lessons to their children.

To advertise, call 281-401-9143 or email: info@NeighborhoodPublications.net

How chocolate became tied

to Valentine’s Day

H

eart-shaped boxes filled with decadent treats are coveted gifts on Valentine’s Day. Chocolate lovers typically have a favorite type of chocolate, whether it’s creamy filled truffles or chocolate pieces with fruit or nut fillings.

The tradition of gifting chocolate is anything but new. Chocolate and other sweet treats have been offered for centuries as prized gifts. Even ancient Aztecs and Mayans celebrated chocolate and saw it as a hot commodity. Drinks made of cacao beans would be given as presents to people of high status. Chocolate also would be offered to the gods as a token of appreciation. Cacao beans were even used as a form of currency at one point.

During the 17th century, chocolate consumption grew considerably across Europe. Chocolate houses cropped up in London, and the French elite often indulged in chocolate. Chocolate’s popularity continued to grow, but the dessert was not linked to Valentine’s Day until nearly 200 years later. In the mid-1800s, an enterprising individual named Richard Cadbury was looking for a way to make chocolate even more popular than it already was. He sought out a method to make drinking chocolate more palatable and created “eating chocolates.” These chocolates were packaged in decorative boxes. Eventually, Cadbury saw the benefit of putting images of cupids and roses on the boxes. Cadbury even designed chocolate boxes in the shape of hearts that could be saved as mementos. These chocolates soon became intertwined with Valentine’s Day celebrations.

On the other side of the Atlantic, Milton Hershey dabbled in commercializing chocolate as well. Hershey began as a caramel maker, but experimented with covering the caramels in chocolate in 1894. Hershey would go on to develop one of the most successful brands of chocolate

Chocolate has been considered a special gift for centuries. It became linked to Valentine’s Day in the 1800s. in the United States, which included the famous Hershey bar. In 1907, Hershey launched production of tear-drop shaped “kisses.” (The chocolates were given their unusual name because of the “smooching” noise made by the chocolate when being manufactured.) The kisses became wildly popular and made for affordable chocolate gifts on Valentine’s Day. Many other chocolate manufacturers soon began packaging their chocolates in special boxes for Valentine’s Day. Russell Stover and Whitmans are two such manufacturers who have long specialized in heart-shaped boxes or other decorative Valentine’s gifts.

Traditionally, men have gifted women with boxes of chocolate for Valentine’s Day. However, that role is reversed in other areas of the world. For example, in Japan, women give gifts — namely chocolates —

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to the men in their lives to express love, courtesy or social obligation.

This tradition first began in 1936 when confectioner Morozoff Ltd. ran the first ever Valentine’s Day ad in Japan through a local English newspaper. By the 1950s, other Japanese confectioners were following suit.

Chocolate has long been tied to Valentine’s Day gifting. Whether one believes that chocolate symbolizes heightened status, acts as an aphrodisiac or is just a special treat, chocolates will likely always be associated with the day of love.

Neighborhood Publications 27

Healthy resolutions for

the new year benefits the environment by making the air you breathe cleaner. The U.S. Census Bureau estimates that roughly half of all U.S. residents live within five miles of their workplace, which provides a great opportunity for commuters to reduce total household emissions, all while having fun on their bicycles. If 50 percent of American workers chose to bike rather than drive to work each day, total household emissions could be cut by as much as 6 percent. Biking to work also saves commuters money on fuel.

Riding a bike to work instead of driving is a great way to get healthy in the new year.

T

he tradition of making New Year’s resolutions can be traced back to the ancient Babylonians, who promised their gods that they would repay their debts and return borrowed items in the new year.

While resolutions have changed since then, people still see the dawn of a new year as an opportunity to commit to doing something good in the months ahead.

No rules govern New Year’s resolutions, but many people resolve to do something healthy. The following are just a few resolution ideas for people who want to make 2016 as healthy as possible.

Lose weight. A January 2015 survey from Nielsen found that 32 percent of U.S. consumers resolved to lose weight in the new year. That should come as no surprise, as New Year’s Day marks an end to the

28 Neighborhood Publications

holiday season, when many people pack on pounds thanks to holiday dinners, parties and the baked goods that seem to find their way into homes and offices throughout December. Seventy-six percent of participants in the Nielsen survey said they did not follow a weight loss or diet program in 2014, which might explain why so many felt a need to lose weight in 2015. If you resolve to lose weight in the new year, do so with the assistance of your physician, who can offer useful advice on diet and exercise.

Bike to work. Depending on how close your home is to your office, consider riding a bike to work instead of driving into the office every day.

Riding a bicycle is great cardiovascular exercise, which is a critical part of any successful exercise regimen. But riding a bike to work also

Work less. Work is good for the mind and body, but too much work can lead to elevated levels of stress.

Stress can produce a host of negative consequences, including an increased risk for depression, obesity and heart disease. Long hours at the office is one of the leading causes of work-related stress, and many professionals find themselves taking on more than they can reasonably handle. Make an effort to scale back your responsibilities and spend less time at the office.

Reduce alcohol consumption.

Reducing alcohol consumption is another healthy resolution for the new year. Excessive alcohol consumption can do a number on the human body. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism notes that overconsumption of alcohol can affect the heart (increasing the risk for cardiomyopathy, arrhythmia, stroke, and high blood pressure), liver (fibrosis, cirrhosis, alcoholic hepatitis), pancreas (pancreatitis), and immune system (weakening it and making you a much easier target for disease). Reducing consumption can have a considerable impact on your overall health.

Men and women resolving to get healthier in the new year can do so in various ways.

To advertise, call 281-401-9143 or email: info@NeighborhoodPublications.net

SUPER BOWL LI (or Super Bowl 51)

Arrives In Houston On February 5, 2017!

And although we may not yet know the exact 2 teams that will be battling it out on game day, the city of Houston is going all out to make it an extravagant party in the days leading up to kick-off!

If you actually got tickets to see the game at NRG Stadium #superjealous #notfair #YOLO, don’t forget to post your pictures on our Facebook (www.facebook.com/ SpringKleinMagazine) and share those coveted shots with the rest of us!

If you didn’t get tickets but still want to experience the Houston Super Bowl, there will be a FREE Festival going on at Discovery Green for 10 days! Yes, you heard us correctly, 10 days of free concerts and other activities for all the local and visiting football fans leading up to game day.

Below are just some of the noteworthy events to checkout:

n Music – ZZ Top, Solange, The Suffers, Gary Clark Jr. and Leon Bridges (all Native Texans) will preform on the main stage. Lady Gaga will perform at the halftime show n Houston LIVE – Will showcase the History of Houston n NASA – Will showcase Future Flight a virtual reality ride (90 foot drop tower) that will take its passengers to Mars and back n Houston Area Food Trucks – Will be at the festival to help feed the crowds during the 10 days (local cuisine and you know it will be good)

Helpful Information:

n Link for Parking & Transportation – http://www.housuperbowl.com/transportation n Super Bowl Houston App for all the latest events – https://www.nfl.com/sbapps

Family Fun:

If you didn’t get any tickets and don’t want to fight the madness of crazed football fans in Houston or would rather do your own Super Bowl party with your own crazed football friends/family then here are some fun tidbits to remember. n Puppy Bowl on Animal Planet – Perfect for kids and non-football fans because it’s so darn cute! n Super Bowl Commercial Bingo – Free printable bingo card to keep your guests entertained http://o.aolcdn.com/smp/s3/uploads/wordpress/uploads/2013/01/super-bowl-bingo-game-cards.pdf n Football Charades – Same rules as normal charades but with football words (touchdown, holding, coach, referee, yellow flag) n Super Bowl Bingo for kids – Free printable bingo cards for the kids/adults http://studiodiy.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/super-bowl-bingo.pdf continued on page 30

To advertise, call 281-401-9143 or email: info@NeighborhoodPublications.net

Neighborhood Publications 29

The Gary Stallings Team RE/MAX VINTAGE • 10130 Louetta Rd., Suite J Houston, Texas 77070 Phone: 281-376-9900 • Fax: 281-537-3328 Email: gs8506@yahoo.com Continued from 29

Super Bowl LI

HOME PARTY: Choose fan-favorite foods: Game day menu options can include anything from finger foods to more elaborate appetizers to main courses.

Games can take several hours from start to finish, so make sure you have enough food to cover the duration of the event. Consider favorites like chicken wings, sliders, mozzarella sticks, and deli sandwiches. Use a slow cooker to prepare chili or stew.

A slow cooker also can be used to cook ribs or hot dogs in bulk. It’s also a handy tool to prepare pork loin for pulled pork sandwiches.

Don’t forget desserts: Desserts are an item you can delegate to guests. If you want to prepare your own desserts, small and portable items are easier to manage and cut down on the mess while fans are cheering. In addition to the requisite

30 Neighborhood Publications

potato chips and pretzels, cookies, brownies, cupcakes, and fruit tarts are all small desserts to consider adding to the menu. Many items can be purchased ready-made if you want to avoid spending hours baking.

Create a viewing location: Guests will want an un-obscured view of the game, and this may require moving around some furniture.

The television should be located high enough so that all guests have a clear view. Think about moving a sofa to the perimeter of the room and bringing in folding chairs, which will allow a greater number of guests to sit.

Tune several televisions to the same channel so guests moving around for food or to use the restroom won’t miss any big plays.

for guests who are not fans of beer.

In addition, have water and other nonalcoholic options at the ready.

An easy way to ensure drinks are cold is to plug the kitchen sink and fill it with water and ice. Place beverages inside and keep cups nearby. This eliminates the need to drag a cooler inside. When the party ends, simply pull the plug and let the water drain out.

Whether you have tickets, tailgating or staying at home sports fans can’t wait to gather, root for their teams and socialize with friends and family. Make sure to posts those pics on social media!

Game day beverages: Beer and soft drinks are staples of sports-related entertaining and may be all you need to have on hand. You can create a game-themed cocktail To advertise, call 281-401-9143 or email: info@NeighborhoodPublications.net

Your State Farm Agent has arrived in Spring!

“We would love to earn your business. Stop by or call and see how we’re different.”

Dayna Wilson

Dayna Wilson

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832-761-7690 dayna.wilson.eols@statefarm.com

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Wellness

In every aspect of our lives...

Let us do the dirty work so you can focus on

Hunting season is upon us, so get your guns into the Gun Cleaners of Spring.

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4334 FM 2920, Suite 30 • Spring, Texas 77388 32 Neighborhood Publications

HEALTH ENVIRONMENT PERSONAL LIFE

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Healthy living should be easy and affordable for everyone.

The largest online Wellness Shopping Club in North America is expanding to the Houston area with over 500+ wellness products manufactured in the U.S.!

Higher Quality, Better Value Safer for Your Home Better for the Environment For more information, contact:

Mike Reeves 281-999-5344

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NOW OPEN!

Teaching children how to learn, not what to learn!

NY Post reports: Montessori parents know first-hand how this approach to education supports and nurtures children’s development in all areas: physical, intellectual, language and social-emotional. Scientific research confirms that Montessori children have an advantage not only academically, but also in social and emotional development.

PRESCHOOL Accepting Ages 1-6 Over an acre of outside play areas!

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Neighborhood Publications 33

Emotional Content . . .

NOT ANGER Tips from Master Josh Arcemont Like most martial art enthusiast, I am a big Bruce Lee fan.

His most famous movie was a film called Enter the Dragon. I remember watching it as a teenager amazed by the fight scenes. I would watch them over and over trying to mimic the moves I saw.

Now, when I watch it I see the hints of wisdom and philosophy of Bruce Lee. A great example of this is the scene where Bruce Lee is teaching a private lesson to a student. At one point, the student gets frustrated and launches an ineffective side kick towards Bruce Lee. Bruce Lee responds with his classic line, “Emotional content, not anger. Now try again, with meaning.” I always loved that line, but when I first heard it, I loved it because it sounded cool. Now, 25 years later, I think I am beginning to understand the wisdom behind these words.

So what is “Emotional Content?” I believe it is, “engaging your spirit” . . . “being present, focused with the right intent” . . . “being in the zone” . . . “having mental focus + physical energy + emotional calm.” How ever you might refer to it, Emotional Content is, “You . . . at your best.”

“Emotional content” is not just an abstract mindset for fighting. It is a important concept that applies to virtually every aspect of a well lived life.

Imagine what would happen if we applied the concept of “Emotional Content” to things like: Parenting, Cooking, School, Work, Teaching, Conversation, Exercise.

A good lesson for everyone. Don’t you think?

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Neighborhood Publications 35

Get a new look for 2017 $10 off color or $5 off haircut & style

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Share your pics and thoughts!

Send us your cutest kids, pets, wedding, vacation pictures and selfies to be featured in our next issue.

Also send us community news and events you know about!

Please visit our website for more information: www.springkleinmagazine.com email: info@NeighborhoodPublications.net 36 Neighborhood Publications

To advertise, call 281-401-9143 or email: info@NeighborhoodPublications.net

Sister From Another Mister A

fter visiting the Museo Nacional del Prado in Spain, over the holidays, I noticed that this lady looks awfully familiar!

So naturally I had to take a selfie with her. When reading about the Mona Lisa replica at the museum, I wanted to do further research about this mysterious lady and find out why she has a twin sister in Spain!

This is what I found out – A “Mona Lisa” replica at the Prado in Madrid was probably painted alongside the original by one of Leonardo da Vinci’s apprentices, museum officials announced in 2012. Previously considered one of many imitations created decades later, it is now thought to be the earliest known copy of the iconic portrait.

More than 500 years after their separation at birth, Mona Lisa’s long-

lost twin has turned up in Madrid – and she looks a lot younger than her more famous sister. The Prado Museum has owned the portrait for years but assumed it was a mediocre 16thor 17th-century copy of Leonardo da Vinci’s original, which dates back to the early 1500s. That’s because the replica’s subject—though bearing an unmistakable resemblance to “La Gioconda,” as da Vinci called her – appeared in front of a plain black backdrop rather than the Tuscan countryside of the Louvre’s version.

Before undergoing a painstaking restoration, the Prado’s “Mona Lisa” replica had a black background.

About six years ago, restorers working on the copy discovered that the dark layers of paint surrounding Mona Lisa concealed a landscape nearly identical to the original’s background. Infrared tests yielded an even bigger surprise: Sketch marks known as under drawings mirrored those on da Vinci’s canvas, suggesting that the painter of the replica had worked alongside the Renaissance master.

Among the many apprentices da Vinci took under his wing throughout his career, he had particularly close relationships with aspiring artists Francesco Melzi and Andrea

Salai; the latter even inherited the “Mona Lisa” after his mentor’s death.

Experts have named both men as potential painters of the Prado copy, the Art Newspaper reported. Lisa Gherardini del Giocondo, a wealthy silk merchant’s wife from Florence, is thought to have sat for da Vinci’s most celebrated work – and maybe, it now appears, a facsimile by one of his disciples.

While layers of cracked, wrinkled varnish obscure the beauty of the original “Mona Lisa,” the Prado version has emerged remarkably unblemished from its ongoing restoration. Experts think the copy’s wellpreserved details might even reveal new information about da Vinci’s masterpiece, helping us see what the painting looked like before age and exposure took their toll. The replica will go on display at the Prado later this month before traveling to France for a da Vinci exhibit.

Does the real Mona Lisa, frozen behind glass at the Louvre, resent the airbrushed radiance of her newly discovered doppelganger? Whatever the answer, she’s sure to keep faking her legendary half-smile.

Credit: http://www.history.com/news/monalisas-long-lost-twin-turns-up-in-spain

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Neighborhood Publications 37

Guide to restaurant

T

ableside service is one of the benefits to dining out. Dining out can be a welcome change from preparing meals at home, and diners love that, once the meal is finished, someone else is there to clean everything up.

Leaving gratuities for exemplary restaurant service may not be mandatory.

However, in many areas of the world, proper dining etiquette suggests diners

tipping

should tip their servers when paying for the meal. Many restaurant employees count on tips to supplement their salaries and servers may even be paid belowaverage wages because tips are factored into their earnings.

Diners routinely struggle when leaving a gratuity. Tipping, because of the money involved, also can cause heated debates. Various experts have weighed in to help customers deter-mine the right way to proceed with tipping. This tipping guide helps clarify when and how to tip.

Etiquette experts at the Emily Post Institute concur that 15 to 20 percent is the standard rule of thumb when tipping at a sit-down dining establishment. If the restaurant is buffet-style, a 10 percent tip may be adequate. Many people leave a 20 percent tip when dining out. That has become the norm for good service.

Poor service may not be worthy of such a substantial tip.

When alcoholic beverages are part of the meal, some diners prefer to tip separately. That’s because restaurants may implement a heavy markup on wine or cocktail prices. Tipping based on the bill pre-tax can be expensive. The safe recommendation is 10 to 15 percent.

Those who sit at the bar before retiring to a table should offer 15 to 20 percent of the tab to the bartender; or, $1 for beer or wine, $2 for mixed drinks. iTipping.com suggests paying your bar tab before leaving for your table.

Although it can be tempting to refrain from tipping when service is poor, this isn’t always the wisest idea. That’s because some restaurants employ a shift system in which all of given shift’s gratuities enter a pool and are divided by a point system. Otherwise, each individual server is responsible for tipping his or her support staff, which includes a busser, a runner, a back waiter, and/or a bartender. Rather than punish the whole lot, reduce the tip and then discuss your misgivings with the restaurant manager.

Diners should know that gratuities are typically included in the bill for larger parties. Restaurants generally add an 18 percent gratuity to the bill. Restaurants put this in place to safeguard their staff.

This gratuity should be mentioned on the bill or on the menu. If the service was excellent, diners may want to tip on top of the included gratuity.

Diners who have gone over budget should not compensate by reducing the tip. Diners who cannot afford to tip should not dine out.

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Our Number One Goal Is Customer Satisfaction!

Kwik Kar Lube & Automotive Service Centers 8959 Spring Cypress at Champions Forest DR. 38 Neighborhood Publications

(281) 320-9900

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Charcuterie Meats For Perfect Super Bowl Party Paninis Salami Panini with Tomato-Chili Jam

wiches in pan and place another large heavy pan on top of them.

Cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until bread is golden and cheese melted, turning sandwiches halfway through. Cut in half to serve.

TIP: For another taste, try Black Kassel Speck, which is like a smoked prosciutto.

Tomato-Chili Jam Recipe INGREDIENTS: 1 1 2 2 2 1 3⁄4

28-ounce can diced tomatoes jalapeno pepper teaspoons garlic, chopped tablespoons ginger, chopped tablespoons fish sauce cup brown sugar cup red wine vinegar

DIRECTIONS:

Serve these tantalizing crusty bread sandwiches to your guests.

Makes: 3 sandwiches INGREDIENTS: 3 Italian crusty buns 1 package Black Kassel Old

Forest, Picante, or Mustard

Seed salami 11 ⁄2 cups baby arugula 4 ounces semi-soft cheese, such

as gouda or Havarti, sliced

1 ⁄2 cup tomato-chili jam

(purchased, or recipe follows) 2 tablespoons olive oil DIRECTIONS: 1. Cut buns in half lengthwise.

Layer salami slices on each bun; top with arugula and cheese slices. Spread tomato-chili jam generously on the inside of the top of each bun.

2. Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Place sand-

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1. In a food processor, purée half the tomatoes and their juices with jalapeño, garlic and ginger. Place in a deep pot with fish sauce, sugar and vin- egar and boil slowly, stirring constantly.

2. When it reaches a boil, lower heat to simmer and add remaining tomatoes. Simmer gently for 30 to 40 minutes until dark red and jam-like. Pour into a bowl, cool and refrigerate until needed.

Find more recipes at www.blackkassel.com.

Neighborhood Publications 39

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SPRING KLEIN MAGAZINE

Neighborhood Publications LLC 9337 Spring Cypress Road Suite #205 Spring, Texas 77379

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