December 2016

IMAGINE LIFE WITHOUT GLASSES

There are no eyes like yours, and there is no cataract procedure like customized laser cataract surgery for your eyes. Ford Eye Center is pleased to offer Bladeless Laser Cataract Surgery and Premium intraocular lens technology. This brings a new level of customization to cataract surgery leading to glasses free outcomes.

Painting Effects on Walls, Furniture • Interior Design • Paint/Stain Furniture

Refurbishing/ Repurposing • Re-do Kitchen/Bath Cabinets • Baby Rooms

Fireplaces using Faux Brick/Stone/Paint • Bannisters/Staircases

Wood Panelling/Molding • Front Doors • Faux Wood look on Ceilings

Color Washing/Glazing • Wrought Iron/Outside Furniture

my's most popular services include redoing old cabinets in bathrooms and kitchens, painting murals and paint effects in babies, children's and teenagers rooms, concrete pots and fireplaces, updating and modernizing dated wood paneling, sanding and staining furniture to give it new life.

Healthy, beautiful skin doesn’t happen by accident.

DermOne Dermatology Associates of Texas, P.A. is proud to welcome board-certified dermatologist Dr. J. Kevin Pidkowicz to our Arlington location. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Pidkowicz specializes in all aspects of medical and surgical dermatology, focusing on a wide spectrum of skin related issues for adults, teens and children.

Dr. Pidkowicz is now welcoming new patients at our Arlington office and looks forward to serving you.

Arlington 1200 Florida Drive

Call 800-Derm-One (337-6663) or visit DermOne.com to schedule your appointment today!

Dear Reader,

It’s been called “the most wonderful time of the year,” and for good reason. With that fi rst snap of winter weather comes a rush of childhood memories. The sights and smells and sounds of Christmas kindle that sense of magic we felt each December and reminds us who and what truly matter. The trick is in not letting adult tensions, commitments, budgets, and expectations yank us back down to earth too soon.

In our Celebration Issue, we offer a sprinkling of holiday topics we hope will help, including festive party dresses, holiday hosting tips, surprises for the foodies and techies on your list, and irresistible holiday recipes. There are practical tips on getting enough sleep, avoiding eye bags, sticking with your workout through the holidays, and avoiding the crazies. We’ll even slip off to Hawaii for a peek at “the big island.”

May your Christmas be fi lled to overfl owing with the true reason for the season. “For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

Blessings, Misty Daniels

PUBLISHING

PUBLISHER Misty Daniels, mdaniels@livingmagazine.net

EDITOR Brandon Daiker, bdaiker@livingmagazine.net

SENIOR ADMINSTRATOR Todd Collom

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Lisa Landry, Anna Charles, LaRue Novick, Meredith Knight, Lisa Jenkins-Moore, Lisa Pedersen

PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTORS Derek Gower, Dustin Doskocil, Lauren Medean, Diana Raines

PRODUCTION

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jen Childers

SENIOR ART DIRECTOR Donny Stevens

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Nicole Crenshaw, Van Ngo

CLIENT SERVICE MANAGER Jenefer Grady

ADVERTISING/SALES

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Lindsay Clark, Kami Anderson, Kathryn Orsak

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December

December

10

Breakfast With Santa Join us for a holiday event for the entire family. 8-11am. $10 per person. Cliff Nelson Rec Center. Arlington Parks and Recreation

Now - December 24

Santa Land at Lincoln Square

A venue where Santa, Mrs. Claus and elves are available for photos with children. Visit lincolnsquarearlington.com. Lincoln Square Shopping Center

Now - December 24

Adventures to Santa-A Dreamworks Dreamplace

Experience this interactive adventure with your family. 10am-closing.

The Parks Mall at Arlington

December 3

Holiday Lights Parade

Parade 6-7pm, Tree Lighting 7:15pm, Pictures with Santa 7:15-8pm. Details at holidaylightsparade.com

Downtown Arlington

December 3 and 10

Olde Town Christmas

Now - January 1

Holiday in the Park

The park transforms into a winter wonderland where you can enjoy fantastic shows.

Six Flags Over Texas

Thanksgiving NightJanuary 1

Prairie Lights

Hundreds of all new displays line and arch over the roads. 6pm-closing. Lynn Creek Park. Visit prairielights.com for details.

Grand Prairie

An annual craft fair for the entire family. Free admission. Dottie Lynn Rec Center. Visit naturallyfun.org.

Arlington Parks and Recreation

December 3 and 10

Mobile Pet Adoption Event

Adoptions will be at the Petsmart® in South Arlington, 203 E. I-20 (Arlington Highlands) 10:30am-3:30pm. Arlington

December 4

Holiday Home Tour

Enjoy the very popular Holiday Home Tour. Visit mansfi eldwomensclub.com for details. Mansfield

BEST BETS [

Feel like a little holiday escapism but don’t know what to spend your time on? We’ll wrap this one up for you.

DECEMBER

2 nd

FRIDAY DECEMBER 2ND @ 7:00PM

Christmas with Michael W. Smith and Amy Grant

Verizon Theatre Grand Prairie

Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith draw hundreds of thousands to their concerts each year and their joint Christmas tours have become some of the most anticipated holiday events of the season. With a vast collection of critically-acclaimed holiday albums between them, the 2016 Christmas tour will showcase selections from their extensive Christmas repertoires. Additionally, the Christmas tour will help benefit Operation Christmas Child, known for distributing over 135 million shoeboxes of Christmas gifts to children in need in 150 countries.

Symphony Arlington Holiday Safari

THURSDAY DECEMBER 15TH @ 7:30PM Arlington Music Hall

AMH Christmaspectacular

SATURDAY DEC 3RD 7:309:30PM

SUNDAY DEC 11TH 3:005:00PM Arlington Music Hall

Hannah Kirby, Finalist on NBC’s The Voice

SATURDAY DECEMBER 5TH @ 3:45PM

Levitt Pavillion Arlington

A Christmas Carol:

Scrooge & Marley

FRIDAY DEC 2ND @ 8:00PM

SUNDAY DEC 18TH @ 6:00PM Theatre Arlington

DECEMBER 16

Rogue One: A Star Wars Story

Felicity Jones, Diego Luna dir. Gareth Edwards (Godzilla)

Set after the events of Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith and shortly before the events of the 1977 original, the big-budget Rogue One centers on a group of Rebel spies who are tasked with stealing the blueprints for the original Death Star (as used in Episode IV). The first in a series of “Star Wars Story” films that will supplement main series entries.

DECEMBER 16

La La Land Ryan Gosling, Emma Stone, J.K. Simmons dir. Damien Chazelle (Whiplash)

In the vein of Hollywood classics like Singin’ in the Rain, La La Land is a modern-day musical that follows aspiring actress Mia (Stone) and jazz musician Sebastian (Gosling) as they begin to encounter success in their respective careers and adjust to the changes it causes in their fledgling relationship. Widely acclaimed in limited release, the film is an early favorite for Oscar contention.

Dolly Parton SATURDAY DECEMBER 3RD @ 7:30PM Verizon Theatre Grand Prairie

KSCS Country Fest 16

Featuring The Band Perry FRIDAY DECEMBER 9TH @ 6:30PM

Verizon Theatre Grand Prairie

Acoustic Sunday’s with Jesse Jennings & Friends!

EVERY SUNDAY IN DECEMBER @ 7:00PM Fat Daddy’s Mansfield

DECEMBER

21

Passengers

Jennifer Lawrence, Chris Pratt dir. Morten Tyldum (The Imitation Game)

Writer Aurora Dunn (Lawrence) and mechanical engineer Jim Preston (Pratt) wake from intergalactic sleep aboard a giant spaceship transporting thousands of people to a distant colony planet known as Homestead II with 90 years left to go before arrival, and begin to investigate the mysterious occurrences on the ship.

Assassin’s Creed

Michael Fassbender, Marion Cotillard dir. Justin Kurzel (Snowtown, Macbeth)

Based on the wildly popular series of video games. Fassbender stars as Callum Lynch, a descendent of a 15th century Spanish assassin, who is rescued from his own execution by a modern day corporation, and forced to relive the memories of his ancestor to acquire age-old knowledge and skills.

THE ARLINGTON-MANSFIELD AREA YMCA GIVES BACK TO MEMBERS AND COMMUNITIES OF ARLINGTON AND MANSFIELD IN 2016

THROUGH INVOLEMENT AND SERVICE IN YOUTH DEVELOPMENT, HEALTHY LIVING AND SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY THE AMA-YMCA GIVE BACK TO THEIR RESPECTIVE COMMUNITIES (ARLINGTON-MANSFIELD, NOVEMBER 2016) — It was announced at the Chairman’s Roundtable Dinner that the Arlington-Mansfield Area YMCA helped raise awareness and donations for youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The donors, volunteers and members of the Arlington-Mansfield community has tremendously helped give back to the community.

In areas involving youth development, the AMA-YMCA had 2,355 children take part of the Summer Day Camp and After School programs in 2016. The Summer Day Camp and After School programs help keep children engaged and learning outside of school.

Furthermore, the YMCA has supported 3,026 children gained confidence in water with our Swimming Programming. Thanks to this instruction, children will be safer around water.

As for Healthy Living, 7,598 seniors took part in the Active Older Adult Program. Overall contributing a healthier lifestyle for seniors in our community. In addition, 9,015 members accessed the Y’s every week in an effort to improve their health and well-being.

The Y, having always been about giving back to the communities, helped bring in 649 donations in backpacks and school supplies.

These donations were then provided to children in need in Arlington Independent School District and Mansfield Independent School District. Another way the Y gives back is by providing meals to the children in the child care programs. The Y provided 78,000 free meals to 1,560 children in these programs.

The AMA-YMCA is about assisting those in need in the local community. On top of all the other things addressed, the AMA-YMCA awarded $474,152 in financial assistance to those in need in the Arlington and Mansfield communities.

To learn more about the AMA-YMCA and how they give back, visit ymca-arlington.org.

ABOUT THE Y

The Y is one of the nation’s leading nonprofits strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Across the U.S., 2,700 Ys engage 21 million men, women and children – regardless of age, income or background – to nurture the potential of children and teens, improve the nation’s health and well-being, and provide opportunities to give back and support neighbors. Anchored in more than 10,000 communities, the Y has the long-standing relationships and physical presence not just to promise, but to deliver, lasting personal and social change. ymca.net

Make Room for Jesus

BY LISA JENKINS-MOORE

Like most families, we have several traditions we follow each Christmas season. Along with the trees, lights, and decorations, we have a box of Christmas movies and books we enjoy each year. One is the movie The Nativity. Together, as a family, we don our pajamas, make popcorn and hot chocolate, and watch the ever-familiar story unfold in our family room. For me, one of the most memorable scenes in the movie is when the young couple enters Bethlehem in search of a place to stay. Young Mary is deep into labor, shifting uncomfortably on the donkey as Joseph frantically knocks on door after door to no avail. With tears in her eyes, the frightened girl looks to heaven and desperately pleads, “Will you not provide for us?”

When Mary learned she was carrying the Christ-child in her womb, I’m sure she imagined many scenarios in which He would arrive; never once did she envision the one unfolding before her. Though prophecies foretold His birth, how much did she know? The Jews were expecting a Messiah, a triumphant king, not a humble servant, or sacrificial lamb. As Mary’s labor progressed, her dream of delivery became a reality, but in the most unimaginable place—a stable, likely a rough cavern hewn out of rock—a dark, dank, smelly cave-like dwelling. Yet, the internal and external darkness was overcome by the light brought by His birth. The night was illuminated and the heavens were radiant as angels announced His arrival!

As I think of the incredible story of Jesus’ birth, and recount it to my children in verse, and through movies, I see so many parallels applicable for daily living. Lately, Mary’s words, “Will you not provide for us?” have rung in my ears, but with a twist—instead of Mary, I hear Jesus saying, “Will you not provide for Me?” As Believers, our mission is to follow Christ—to know Him and make Him known. Though our intentions are good, how often do we fill the rooms of our lives and shut the door on His presence?

Even at Christmas, a time we’ve set aside to celebrate His birth, Jesus is often pushed aside in the wake of events and activities. Many make a special effort not to overcommercialize the season, but the pressures to go, do, buy, and give can easily consume us. As we enjoy our Christmas trees, beautiful lights, melodious music, Wassail, and decorated cookies, let’s set our eyes higher. Let’s not just open a room for the Messiah—let’s open our hearts as we focus on Him, not just at Christmas, but throughout the year.

Our relationship with Christ is personal and not formulaic, however, at times we are helped when we narrow our vision to specific ideas and activities that help us reengage with Jesus. Here are a few to consider:

1) Set your alarm 15 minutes earlier. I confess I’m not a morning person. I’ve tried for many years and have been only partially successful at rising early. Still, there’s something special about the morning hours with God. The Scripture is filled with admonition on seeking God early—

it’s the best way to start the day. Psalm 5:3, “My voice You shall hear in the morning, O LORD; in the morning I will direct it to You, and I will look up.

2) Tithe your time. For several months one year, I set an alarm on my watch to chime on the hour. When the alarm sounded, I’d stop whatever I was doing and focus on Jesus for six minutes. During that time, I might pray for a friend or family member, read a short Bible passage, or even sing a song. I found by doing this, my attention wasn’t toward Him in just those six minutes, but I would anticipate the time with Him throughout the hour. I Thessalonians 5:16-18, “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

3) Give Him your Netflix time. We’re not TV watchers, but we do enjoy the occasional Netflix show. To be honest, once I find a clean program with a good story line, I’m hooked. Though I try to restrain myself to one (or maybe two) episodes at a time, that’s still 40-80 minutes from my day! I know I’m not alone… sometimes the mindless veg seems necessary—the “me” time we so often crave. What if you gave this time to Jesus, even just once a week? Prayer, reading the Word, and quiet meditation can seem difficult at first, but the rewards far outweigh the temporary gratification of entertainment.

Psalm 103:2-5, Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits: Who forgives all your iniquities, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from destruction, who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies, who satisfies your mouth with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.

4) Pray in the night. Many times we awake in the night and are unable to return to sleep immediately. Utilize the night season. Commune with God. Psalm 119:148, “My eyes are awake through the night watches, that I may meditate on Your word.”

Above all else, ask God to help you make room for Him. This may seem counterintuitive, but the truth of the matter is our flesh often gets in the way of spiritual growth. We must learn to submit our soul (our mind, will, and emotions) to our spirit, and only God can show us how to do this effectively. As The Passion Translation so eloquently puts it: “God holds our lives safely in his hands. He’s the One who keeps us faithfully following him” (Psalm 66:9). God is faithful to redeem us, restore us, and keep us following Him, but we must daily open our hearts and make room for Him!

All Scripture Quotations are New King James Version unless otherwise noted.

To connect with Lisa or follow her blog, visit LisaJenkinsMoore.com or Facebook.com/LJenkinsMoore.

Find Your Medical Home with USMD Health System

USMD is your family’s medical home offering you one source for:

• Primary Care

• Specialty Care

• Hospitals

• Imaging

• Senior Care

• Coordinate a patient’s care in one place and provide referrals to specialty care, when needed

Over the past thirty years, medicine has become disjointed, with individuals bouncing from specialist to specialist, each with their own narrow focus, with no one, it seems, considering the whole wellness picture. Enter the “medical home”—a single touchstone where an individual or a family can have their wellness and care coordinated. Enter USMD Health System, where the patient’s best interest isn’t just a factor. It’s the only factor. Far better than the fragmented care to which we’ve all become resigned. Better even than a medical team, USMD offers patients a medical family where care is world-class, cost-effective, physician-led, integrated, and patient-centered.

USMD is a different kind of healthcare home. One that’s truly connected, with the power to meet your every need within the same system. Headquartered in Irving, Texas, and serving DFW with two hospitals, four cancer treatment centers, and nearly 50 primary care and specialty clinics, USMD Health System is truly patient-focused, with more than 250 providers committed to making decisions in the best interest of every patient.

USMD Physician Clinics

USMD offers nearly 50 physician clinics, many of which are multi-spe-

cialty, and more than 250 providers in more than 20 different specialties across DFW. USMD truly can care for every member of your family throughout every stage of their life. And, when it comes to personalized care, USMD physicians place the patients’ needs above all else.

Primary Care Physicians

USMD has nearly 150 primary care providers (PCP) at 27 locations across the Metroplex.

USMD PCPs serve as a patient’s main point of contact in the health system— they are the fi rst call a patient makes

when their throat hurts, they have a fever, ear ache or the fl u or need an annual physical, preventive care, or screening.

Aside from being a patient’s main medical contact, USMD PCPs:

• Treat patients with comprehensive, continuous, and compassionate care

• Provide access to a wide spectrum of health services, such as care for chronic conditions, including asthma, hypertension and diabetes; and care for acute symptoms, like cough, stomach pain, or high fever

• Serve as a patient’s advocate and guide through the healthcare system

• Detect patterns in a patient’s health and recommend lifestyle changes to prevent future complications that may require costly specialty care or ER visits. For example, simple testing during a PCP visit can reveal health problems, such as high blood pressure, that may otherwise go unnoticed, leading to more serious, and costly, issues later in life.

In addition, all of USMD’s primary care clinics are accredited by the Patient-

USMD Hospital at Fort Worth

This unique physician-owned facility offers six state-of-the-art surgical suites and separate entrances and facilities for pediatric and adult patients, including separate registration, waiting, pre-op, surgery and recovery areas. If an overnight stay is required, the hospital offers eight private inpatient suites complete with WiFi, mini refrigerator, TV, an additional bed for an attending family visitor, and a one-to-four nurse/ patient ratio (compared to the national average of one-to-eight).

USMD Imaging Center for Breast Health

Centered Medical Home Program, a recognition program that’s part of the National Committee for Quality Assurance. The Level 3 recognition earned by USMD means that USMD’s primary care clinics successfully display and utilize evidence-based, patientcentered processes that focus on highly coordinated patient care and long-term patient relationships.

SeniorCare

With nearly 100 providers across the Metroplex participating in the USMD SeniorCare program, USMD SeniorCare provides our precious senior population with high-quality, effective, and effi cient healthcare, while addressing the unique needs of senior patients and their caregivers.

USMD Hospital at Arlington

With nine oversized, state-ofthe-art operating rooms and two procedural rooms, USMD Hospital at Arlington is equipped for a wide variety of cases. A leader in DFW, USMD Arlington offers four da Vinci Systems and one of the top ten robotic surgery programs in the Metroplex. If an overnight stay is required, the hospital offers 34 private inpatient suites complete with WiFi, mini refrigerator, TV, an additional bed for an attending family visitor, and a one-to-fi ve nurse/patient ratio (compared to the national average of one-to-eight).

The USMD Imaging Center for Breast Health supports a proactive approach to breast health with a comprehensive spectrum of the most advanced digital mammography and diagnostic imaging technologies. The Center offers a patient-focused approach to care with an experienced and specialized staff, quick results, soothing, spa-like environment, and a convenient location (on the garden level of the USMD Hospital at Arlington Medical Offi ce Building). The center features state-of-the-art 2-D and 3-D mammogram technology, as well as automated breast volume scanning, on-site diagnostics, breast ultrasound, and stereotactic biopsy.

At USMD, they didn’t just connect the docs. They united them. It may not be what you expect from health care, but they believe it’s exactly what you deserve.

Primary Care and Specialists New Patient Appointments: (817) 514-5277

Urology New Patient Appointments: (817) 784-8268

Clinic Patient Billing Questions: (817) 514-5200

Corporate Headquarters: (214) 493-4000

Human Resources and Employment Verification: (214) 493-4920

Customer Care Line: (972) 528-7621

USMDinc.com

QUINTESSENTIAL HAWAII

Slightly Off the Beaten Path

BY ANNETTE BROOKS

“What do you recommend as an insider?” Having owned vacation homes on the Big Island for many years and after exploring every nook and cranny, invariably friends planning a Hawaiian vacation ask me this question. Sure, you can enjoy stunning oceanfront golf courses and the soft sand and waves of award-winning Hapuna Beach. You can take a snorkeling tour to the crystal-clear waters near Captain Cook Monument, arrange stargazing trips to the world-renowned observatories atop Mauna Kea’s 13,746-foot summit, and schedule some downtime at a posh day-spa. But in addition, it’s the special places below that create amazing lifelong memories that are uniquely Big Island.

Larger than the other Hawaiian Islands combined, The Big Island—Hawaii, the state’s namesake—offers diverse activities. You can surf, boogie board, visit historic places, or hike around the rim of an active volcano or through a rainforest.

You can bike, snorkel, ride horses on an active ranch, sail, fish, sample local cuisine or enjoy locally sourced fine dining, and visit a coffee farm—all on one island.

A PLACE OF REFUGE IN SOUTH KONA

Hundreds of years old yet beautifully restored, Puuhonua o Honaunau provides a glimpse into early Hawaiian culture. Areas such as this were designated as places of refuge where no blood could be shed.

Hawaiians who had broken a law or were escaping from a war enemy were protected and given a second chance if they could make it to the confines of a place of refuge. Stroll through meticulously maintained open spaces of white sand surrounding lava rocks and immaculately trimmed coconut palms. “Talk story” with a cultural demonstrator as you enjoy this serene, sacred Hawaiian place.

TIP: A small road adjacent to the park entrance leads to an excellent local swimming and snorkeling are known as Two Steps.

A WishHolidayCome True!

ST. BENEDICT’S PAINTED CHURCH OVERLOOKING KEALAKEKUA BAY

Perched on a hill and surrounded by flowers, this charming whitewashed chapel holds a wonderful surprise inside. Erected in 1899 by Belgian Catholic Missionary Father John Velghe, the interior wooden walls are filled with colorful painted scenes from the Bible. Father Velghe, who had no artistic training, taught with pictures—because in those days, few Hawaiians could read. Parishioners are usually on hand to answer questions, and have set up a couple of tables as you enter the grounds, offering a few small souvenirs and a donation box.

TIP: Check out the parish’s historic cemetery, which is over a century old.

UPCOUNTRY FARMS AND RANCHES IN WAIMEA

Cacti, horses, cattle, and cowboys— you might think you’ve entered the Wild West instead of the brilliant green rolling hills that rest high above sun-drenched beaches and vast black lava fields. In the past, Waimea was a community of farmers, feathergatherers, hunters, and others who made their livelihood from the land and its creatures. Today, it includes shops and businesses that enhance the Paniolo (cowboy) lifestyle, and is home to one of Hawaii’s most famous, award-winning locavore restaurants—Merriman’s Waimea. Make reservations in advance. Or, go where the locals eat. Pop into the unassuming Hawaiian Style Café for a delicious brunch.

Try one of their belt-busting Loco Moco breakfasts consisting of different meats, gravy, and an egg served over rice.

TIP: Love horseback riding? Schedule an openrange horseback journey at Kahua Ranch, a 12,000 acre working cattle and sheep ranch with breathtaking panoramic views of the mountains and the coastline. Opportunities for trotting and cantering are even available.

WITNESS NEW LAND BEING FORMED

A Big Island vacation isn’t complete without a trip to Kilauea, the youngest and most active Hawaiian shield volcano. According to Hawaiian legends, Kilauea’s summit caldera and crater is home of the fire goddess Pele. Enter Volcanoes National Park and take an easy hike around the smoking caldera or view it from historic Volcano House lodge, then wander along the otherworldly appearing steam vent trails. Be sure to walk through the subterranean Thurston lava tube (an easily accessible place), then take Chain of Craters Road down to the ocean. This 20-mile drive winds through a forest of large tree ferns, then opens to shockingly stark, moonscape-like lava fields.

Tip: So, what’s off the beaten path at Kilauea? Instead of a helicopter tour over Kilauea’s active lava fields, book a lava boat tour. Watch as molten rivers of lava sizzle into the Pacific Ocean from your front row seats.

to be somewhat like Kailua-Kona was decades ago, before the tourist industry claimed it. Beyond Hawi lies the town of Kapaau, home of the original King Kamehameha I statue.

Tip: Continue driving east on Highway 270 and you’ll literally reach the end of the road at the stunning Pololu Valley Overlook. The incredible view overlooking the northeastern coastline is a perfect way to end your journey through North Kohala.

CHANNEL YOUR INNER SCIENTIST

RAINFORESTS, BOTANICAL GARDENS, WATERFALLS

Totally road-trip worthy Hamakua Coast, on the northeastern side of the Big Island, features lush tropical rainforests, waterfalls—including Umauma and Akaka Falls—deep water-carved gorges, and lovely seaside views. Take a driving break and visit the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden at Onomea Bay. This one-of-akind garden protected from buffeting trade winds is a living museum with over 2,000 tropical plant species. Complete your trip in the seaside town of Hilo, the county seat of Hawaii. Go on a Saturday and check out the farmer’s market, which includes a variety of unique tropical produce, gorgeous flowers, local honeys, crafts, gifts, clothing, and more.

Tip: The Waipio Valley Lookout provides a panoramic reward at the northern end of your journey along the Hamakua Coast.

GLIMPSE OF THE PAST IN NORTH KOHALA

The unpretentious haven of Hawi, resting on the green northern tip of the island, was once the busy hub of North Kohala’s now defunct sugar industry. Today, Hawi is home to a handful of quaint art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants set in repurposed plantation buildings. I imagine slow-paced, simple Hawi

Many vacationers don’t realize they can visit the Natural Energy Lab of Hawaii (NELHA), a fascinating center for developing solar and deep ocean technology. Don’t be intimidated by the gated look at the entrance. Drive in and hang a left to the nicely done Visitors Center. The grand tour, available on Saturdays, includes a visit the Kona Kampachi fish and the abalone farms, where you can learn about sustainable practices and sample tastings.

Tip: Nearby Energy Lab Beach has naturally protected tidal area that is great for family swimming and soaking. Wave swells crashing against the protective rock ledge can create dramatic sprays up to around 10 feet high.

TERRIFIC BREWS, KONA STYLE

There are a many coffee farms in Kona, but Greenwell Farms, established in 1850, is one of the most authentic—a hidden gem. The farm includes a historic store and free tours with no reservations required. Plus, they offer lots of samples for tasting.

If you want to whet your whistle with one of Kona’s famous microbrews, head to the Kona Brewing Company for some great handcrafted ales and lagers. Brewery tours are available seven days a week. Visit their pub in Kailua-Kona, enjoy good food on their beautiful lanai, and swill some Longboard Island lager, Fire Rock Pale Ale, Pipeline Porter, and Castaway IPA, to name a few of their great brews.

PrimeCare Emergency Center— Their PRIME focus is your CARE

BY MEREDITH KNIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY BY DEREK GOWER

If you’re a parent, you’ve probably heard it. That cry for help that lets you know this is no ordinary bump or bruise or mishap. Your child is seriously injured. Or perhaps you’ve woken in the middle of the night to a child who’s limp and burning up with fever. When it happens, you have one priority—to get him or her to emergency care, as quickly as you can. But many of us have had the unfortunate experience of rushing frantically into a hospital-based ER with a sick or injured child and realizing we’re the only one in a hurry. We’ve waited to fi ll out paperwork, waited to be triaged, then waited to see a doctor only to wait in line for diagnostic equipment, because the ER is sharing it with the rest of the hospital.

State-of-the-Art Facility

It’s for parents like us that 24-hour PrimeCare Emergency Center exists. Licensed by the State of Texas as a certifi ed free-standing emergency room and open 24/7 right in the heart of Arlington, PrimeCare provides all the state-of-the-art diagnostics and treatment as a hospital-based ER without all the red tape.

Experienced Staff—Short Waits

Nobody plans for an emergency. When one does occur, you want capable professionals with extensive emergency room experience and a compassionate nature to provide immediate care and swift treatment services. PrimeCare is an alternative to the busy, crowded hospital emergency room with shorter wait

Before You Head to the ER

FRACTURE

Look around for something you can apply as a splint, since immobilizing the injury can eliminate most of the pain associated with the fracture. It can also help avoid any additional injury to soft tissue structures.

HEAD INJURY

If you or a loved one has sustained a head injury, you should avoid heavy meals and allow a physician to evaluate anyone with significant head trauma. PrimeCare doctors know what to look for to determine the severity of the injury.

LACERATION

Before heading to the ER or while in route, keep the wound covered and apply pressure to control any bleeding. If a piece of tissue has been completely severed, don’t place it directly in ice. Wrap it in moist gauze and then on ice.

If you’re not sure whether you need emergency care, it’s always best to visit the ER and let them determine the severity of your emergency. If you’re the one who’s sick or injured, have someone else drive you or call 911.

delivers personalized emergency care in a timely manner, making sure all patients are treated with utmost compassion and respect. Their experienced physicians and highlytrained medical staff are individuals who entered the healthcare industry with the core desire to help others; who fi nd an intrinsic satisfaction in

times and more personalized care, from experienced ER physicians and an expert medical staff. At PrimeCare patients are usually seen by a physician within 15 minutes with the average visit no longer than an hour.

Personalized Care

Regardless of the severity of the illness or injury you’re facing, PrimeCare

helping their Arlington neighbors recover from an illness or bounce back from an injury; who thrive on patient/ caregiver interaction. They handle all types of injuries and illnesses, paying attention to every detail.

Family-Oriented PrimeCare caregivers are fellow parents. Whether their “kids” are grown, elementary aged, or still in diapers, they cherish the time they spend with their families. It helps ground them to the community and the needs of their Arlington neighbors. And it offers them a special rapport with their youngest patients.

They’re also as diverse in background as they are in their interests. PrimeCare includes artists who are also radiology technologists, nurses who enjoy the outdoors and running, and military veterans who are now doctors and nurses. Patients enjoy getting in on the playful banter between die-in-the-wool Cowboys fans on the staff and a healthy spattering of Giants, Saints, and Eagles fans. It’s all in good fun and keeps things light, friendly, and personal. Community-Minded

Firm believers in giving back to the community that’s given so much to them, PrimeCare supports the YMCA and participates in Toys for Tots and local food drives, in partnership with Mission Arlington. This month they’re excited to sponsor a free Santa photo event for the community. Santa will arrive at PrimeCare with a photographer in tow and will be available to interact with kids and take free family photos December 10th from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. and December 21st from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. Come tour the new PrimeCare facility, meet Santa, and have your family’s picture taken. PrimeCare Emergency Center 5912 South Cooper Street Arlington, Texas 76017 (682) 323-8899

Banish Eye Bags & Dark Circles

Tips and tricks to de-puff and lighten

BY LARUE V. GILLESPIE

As you get older, things, well, things start going south— even your lower eyelids. Throw in the fact that we’re smack dab in the middle of holiday season with its added stress and sleepless nights combined with guzzling spirited cocktails and gorging on super salty (butoh-so-yummy) foods, and it’s no wonder your under-eyes are screaming for some TLC!

If eye bags or dark circles have you feeling down, don’t despair. There are plenty of things you can try. But first, let’s take a look at the potential causes.

Eye bags, puffiness, and dark circles can be caused by a variety of factors, said Raffia Hovsepian, MD, a triple board certified aesthetic, plastic, and reconstructive surgeon practicing in Southern California.

“Examples include seasonal allergies, salty intake of foods, alcohol (cocktails), and a common culprit—lack of sleep.” Other conditions such as smoking, getting too much sun exposure, or sleeping face down at night can also contribute to eye-puff.

Sometimes, however, it’s more than environment and self-inflicted lifestyle factors. Chronic dark circles could be the result of a hormonal imbalance, thyroid disease, or even lack of fat under your eyes that causes a hollowed out look. Lasting eye bags could be the result of weakening muscles that typically hold normal fat deposits around your eyes for support. As these muscles weaken and collagen breaks down in your skin, the fat drops and takes up residence under your eyes. This could happen as early as your 20s and 30s, which means it’s likely genetic.

WHAT TO DO?

There is an assortment of eye creams, gels, and serums available today that will help lift, lighten, and tighten eye bags and dark circles. Just remember to always take great care and be gentle with the skin under your eyes.

If you’re sleeping five hours a night, according to the National Sleep Foundation, you should be getting eight to nine hours, so get to bed earlier. Also, drink less, stop smoking, go easy on the salted foods, exercise more, and get your allergies under control.

“Once a patient changes their lifestyle and lives a healthier, more relaxed life, we see an immediate response within a week,” Dr. Hovsepian said.

For eye bags and dark circles that go beyond lifestyle and environmental solutions, you could turn to cosmetic surgery as an option (first, check with your physician to make sure it’s not thyroid disease or some other cause). You can get filler injections to camouflage bags and dark circles, though this is a temporary solution. Beyond that, you can opt for blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery).

Eyelid surgery, when performed by an experienced, board certified cosmetic surgeon or dermatologist, has come a long way. “Unlike previous generations, the newer techniques of eyelid surgery are becoming more conservative in the removal of skin and fat in order to prevent a noticeable surgical effect,” said Dr. Hovsepian. “The eyes are not forgiving structures if things are overdone. We are more meticulous when operating in these areas and the objective is to [achieve] a natural look.”

roto rooter

I’m Only Sleeping

Settle in for a long winter’s nap… and to all, a good night

The holidays are a joyful season full of feasting and celebration. They can also be a time when we’re overrun with relatives and burdened by unexpected expenses. All the excitement can be stressful, and while the children lay “nestled all snug in their beds,” we grownups may have trouble falling asleep at night. According to Jessica Payne, associate professor and director of the Sleep Stress and Memory Lab at the University of Notre Dame in Indiana, most people need seven to nine hours of sleep. I can hear your bitter, mirthless laughter, dear readers. Who gets eight hours of sleep these days?

So, holiday shoppers, which do you want first—the good news or the bad news? Bad news it is. According to a 2013 article in the Wall Street Journal, sleep deprivation costs U.S. businesses more than $63 billion a year in lost productivity. Good sleep is as important as diet and exercise for our overall wellbeing, yet many busy people consider that sweet slumber a waste of precious time. Some of us shortchange ourselves on sleep for years. We think we can make up for it on weekends and holidays, but long-term sleep deprivation can lead to real problems with decision-making, lack of creativity, and emotional issues, and those are only some of the first areas to be impacted by a sleep deficit.

According to Dr. Tara Swart, neuroscientist and CEO of a neuroscience consulting firm called The Unlimited Mind, missing a night of sleep can have a devastating effect on our performance. Dr. Swart, also a trained psychiatrist, said in a 2015 CNN interview that many of her clients had experienced nervous breakdowns and even heart attacks. When sleep is disturbed, said Swart, “your IQ drops by one standard deviation, meaning you’ll be operating as if you’ve got a learning disability.” So, if you’re one of those who claims sleep is a crutch, this is as good a time as any to reconsider. But that’s enough of the bad news. I prefer to accentuate the positive, especially during this most wonderful time of the year.

There is good news! Not only is proper sleep good for us, but getting enough shut-eye helps us do the things that, in turn, help us sleep better. As we look for ways to improve our health and transform ourselves, let’s remember that sleeping well can improve every aspect of our lives.

Our body and mind need deep sleep to maintain themselves properly. This is why we’re hard-wired to sleep each night.

Adequate

Anyone who reads fitness magazines will notice that they often focus on the importance of sleep. That’s because if we don’t get enough Zs, we can’t build muscle. The body uses most of the night to heal damage done to cells and tissues when we’re awake and more metabolically active. Lack of sleep, on the other hand, is associated with muscle atrophy.

People who sleep well perform better on short-term memory tests. This is true for adults as well as children. When researchers test adults on a task before and after a good night’s sleep, people show improvement after grabbing forty winks. Those unfortunate souls who stayed awake 30 hours after learning the same task had a tougher time improving their performance, even with the promise of recovery time later. Sleep helps us learn.

Several studies show that people who get enough sleep are less likely to be obese. One study that monitored 500 people for 13 years found that those who slept less than seven hours per night were 7.5 times more likely to be overweight, even after taking into account their physical activity, genetics, and demographic variables.

As it turns out, another activity that many of us associate with the bedroom also goes hand in hand with good health.

That’s right, we’re talking about—ahem—the procreative act. The hormones released during sexual activity— prolactin and oxytocin—make us feel drowsy, also lowering the level of a stress-related hormone called cortisol, making us feel relaxed. All this leads to a state that’s perfect for a good night’s slumber. More sex helps us sleep, and more sleep boosts sex drive. This is what author Stephen Covey might call a “win-win” situation.

It seems normal for people in our society to sleep in one single consolidated block of about eight hours at night, but this is not the only sleep pattern. In fact, sleeping only at night and foregoing an afternoon nap would seem strange in some cultures. In the Latin world, people routinely stay up past midnight, sleep a few hours, then take a two-hour siesta at around 2pm. Some believe this is the ideal sleep schedule for human beings, but it’s still up for debate.

Whatever our sleep schedule, one thing scientists agree on is that we need a minimum amount of uninterrupted sleep. Sleep isn’t a luxury or a weakness, and we neglect it to our detriment. So don’t feel guilty for sleeping in during the holidays, and may visions of sugar plum fairies dance in your head.

KennedaleChiropractic.com

405 W Kennedale Pkwy Kennedale, TX 76060

Finally, Flu

It’s

here…

prevent the spread of disease during flu season

It starts with the sudden onset of a high fever. Body aches and chills. Sore throat and breathing difficulties accompanied by fatigue and cough. When you’re hit by the flu, you really feel like you’ve been hit by a truck. And influenza isn’t something to ignore: historically, flu pandemics can race through a population and can cause far more damage than a simple inconvenience. Between December and March, when flu season peaks, it’s imperative that you protect your family and yourself from this highly contagious respiratory disease and that you take the flu seriously. Here’s how!

START WITH A FLU SHOT

It’s best to get your flu shot in the early months of flu season in order to build up your immunity to protect you from multiple flu viruses. However, there are benefits to getting a flu shot as late as January. If you haven’t protected yourself this late in flu season, you still have a chance to bolster immunity and protect yourself and your family. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), flu shots are highly recommended for children between six months and four years old. Those age 65 or older are also considered high risk, as are pregnant women and those with chronic illnesses or weakened immune systems. But everyone can benefit from a flu shot, not just those at high risk for contagion.

You can get your flu shot at pharmacies, urgent care clinics, some supermarkets, some schools, and at your doctor’s office or nearby health clinic, and it normally costs between $10 and $50, depending on your insurance coverage. Don’t delay: a shot is your first line of defense against the flu.

Prevent the Flu!

• Get your flu shot.

• Wash your hands!

• Take anti-virals as prescribed.

• Keep your surfaces and bathrooms disinfected.

PREVENTATIVE MEASURES

Aside from a shot, the best way to prevent the flu (and spreading it) is frequent hand washing and using precaution in heavily populated spaces. Keep your spaces clean and disinfected, and encourage good habits from family members. The flu is transmitted by touch and is also airborne, so homes, schools, nursing homes, and office buildings are breeding grounds for the virus to spread. If there is a known outbreak in your area, care with your personal space can help prevent, but not eliminate, your chances of catching the flu. Keep in mind that antibacterial soaps and hand sanitizers are useless against viral flu. According to the CDC, good health and hygiene habits are half the battle, so be mindful of what you touch and of how frequently you wash your hands.

UH OH. I THINK I’M SICK…

If you’ve been diagnosed with the flu, it’s imperative that you prevent the spread of the disease to those around you. The CDC recommends several steps for preventing the spread of influenza. If you’ve been diagnosed, follow these steps:

1. Avoid close contact with others.

2. Stay home when you’re contagious.

3. Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.

4. Again, wash your hands!

5. Avoid touching your own eyes, mouth, and nose.

6. Clean, clean, clean. Once you are well enough, use disinfectant on surfaces, bathrooms, and high traffic areas.

7. Rest, hydrate, manage your stress, and be as physically active as you can be while recuperating.

• Did you know? “Stomach flu” isn’t really the flu at all. It’s gastroenteritis.

• An estimated 31 million Americans, or 10% of the population, get the flu each year.

• Over 200,000 Americans per year are hospitalized with the flu.

• 36,000 Americans die from the flu each year.

• Dangerous complications from the flu include sinus infections and pneumonia.

• The flu comes on suddenly, whereas a cold normally has gradual symptoms.

• Fever, chills, and body aches are common early indicators of the flu.

Treating people, not Test Results

Surgical Associates of Mansfield

Gary Alexander, MD

Jeremy Parcells, MD

David Rutledge, MD

BY MELISSA GAUTIER PHOTOGRAPHY BY DUSTIN DOSKOCIL AND DEREK GOWER

If you have preconceived notions about the long, painful recovery periods and complications that typical open surgery procedures present, think again. Robotics have revolutionized surgical procedures today and are quickly becoming doctors’ preferred choice for intricate surgical procedures.

Surgical Associates of Mansfi eld is excited to announce the introduction of the celebrated da Vinci Surgical System to their practice. Not only are

Drs. Gary Alexander, Jeremy Parcells and David Rutledge introducing the da Vinci, they are also welcoming patients to their state-of-the-art offi ce, located

Dr. Jeremy Parcells Upon graduation from Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Dr. Parcells completed his residency at The University of Kentucky, Lexington, and a fellowship in minimally invasive and bariatric surgery at University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska. He is the current chairman of the division of general surgery at Methodist Mansfi eld Medical Center and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He is board-certifi ed by the American Board of Surgery.

Dr. David Rutledge

“Advances in robotic surgery have led to significantly faster recovery times for patients, which is our No. 1 goal. Not only do we want to fix the problem, but we want to get you back to normal life sooner.”

inside the new Alexander Medical Plaza at 2975 East Broad Street in Mansfi eld.

Meet the Team

Dr. Gary Alexander

Dr. Alexander graduated from the University of Texas Medical School at Houston in 2002, and completed his surgical residency at Methodist Hospital in Houston in 2007. He is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons, and has been on staff at John Peter Smith Hospital and Methodist Mansfi eld Medical Center since 2007. He was Chairman of the Department of Surgery at Methodist Mansfi eld Medical Center from 2012–2014. He is board-certifi ed by the American Board of Surgery.

In 1994, Dr. Rutledge graduated from The University of Texas Southwestern Medical School. He completed his residency in 1999 and has been practicing in the Dallas/Fort Worth area ever since. He is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and board-certifi ed by the American Board of Surgery.

Vinci Surgical System Advantages:

• Offers a more delicate approach to procedures

• Less movement and handling of tissues

• Smaller incisions and potentially less pain and blood loss

• Significantly decreased complications and scarring

• Typically shorter recovery periods and hospital stays

• Potential for better clinical outcomes

Robotics and the da Vinci: What is it and what can I expect?

“Robotic surgery allows us to see and perform complex maneuvers with much less trauma to the body. This leads to less pain, less bleeding, and less down time after surgery,” Dr. Alexander explained. The da Vinci Surgical System is a sophisticated platform designed to expand traditional surgical capabilities. It allows Surgical Associates of Mansfi eld several minimally invasive options for procedures.

Seated comfortably at the da Vinci console, the doctors view a magnifi ed, high-defi nition image of the surgical site. The da Vinci responds to the doctor’s input in real time, translating the hand and fi nger movements into precise micro-movements of the instruments. Major surgery can now be performed through the smallest of incisions, and manipulated with precise movements through robotic arms controlled by Drs. Alexander, Parcells or Rutledge.

“We’ve been performing minimally invasive, or laparoscopic surgery for a long time,” Dr. Parcells said. “Robotic surgery represents the next stage of growth and innovation. It allows us to do operations we were already performing laparoscopically, only better.” With gallbladders, for instance, instead of four incisions, only one is needed. Other positive points include a signifi cant decrease in post-operative pain with hernia repairs, and shorter hospitalizations with colon surgery. Dr. Parcells said, “When we perform colon surgery using the robot, we have the ability to check perfusion of the bowel in real time. This may not seem like a big deal, but having adequate blood fl ow is key to minimizing complications and healing.”

“Our vision at Surgical Associates of Mansfi eld is to provide consistent quality care to our patients,” said Dr. Alexander. “I suppose our inspiration is an attempt to return to the golden days of medicine, when you could trust your doctor to look out for you and fi ght for you, without worrying about shutting the doors because of the economic realities.”

Holiday Hustle

Hanging with the healthy lifestyle through the holidays

We get it. For many folks, the holidays are stressful: fighting with relatives, the endless parties, eating and drinking entirely too much, racing towards a sale on Black Friday after all, those cute, designer boots marked down 75% aren’t going to buy themselves. Staying in shape is probably the last thing on your mind.

All that chaos and commotion can really do a number on both your physical and mental health. Did you know that you can lose up to 20 percent of your cardiovascular fitness if you quit exercising cold turkey from Thanksgiving to New Year? The average American gains approximately one pound (give or take) during the holiday season. However, adding short bursts of intense effort—and no, we don’t mean a swift elbow to the face of the woman trying to snatch your size at the aforementioned boot sale—can fire up your metabolism and even fast track your results. Truth: there’s no rule that says you have to start the New Year off overweight and feeling miserable.

This holiday season, think quality over quantity—and not just at the Christmas dinner buffet line. Although that is a good place to start…

According to an Australian study published in Women’s Health, women who cranked out high-intensity interval training three days a week for 20 minutes (for 15 weeks) shed more fat than those who exercised for 40 minutes at a lower intensity over the same period. Studies have also suggested that small doses of

• Just say no to eating yourself into oblivion.

• Recruit a training accountability partner. Maybe this can be your spouse, or your best girlfriend. Have you checked out the Pact app? The holidays might just be the perfect time to make a fitness pact. And you might even earn a few extra bucks in the process!

• When you can’t make it to the gym (for an hour), squeeze in small, shorter workouts throughout the day. Think 10 or 15 minutes (or less) every hour, on the hour. Try this: 20 pushups plus 20 bodyweight squats.

• Track your progress. This will keep you motivated. Don’t avoid the mirror or the scale. You don’t have to be obsessive, but avoiding the issue is one sure-fire way to pack on extra holiday poundage.

exercise—10 to 20 minutes at a time—can result in temporary mood improvement or anxiety reduction. Exercise raises levels of serotonin (the “feel-good” hormone), while reducing your heart rate, blood pressure, and stress-hormone levels. So just make the time. You’ll feel calmer and more confident through the holidays and beyond.

Ready to give this whole “healthy for the holidays” thing a try? Here are a few helpful ideas to keep you on track.

• Try superset circuits. (Go on, give it a Google.) These are exercises that work opposing muscle groups, torch calories, and tone all over. No equipment or gym needed, which makes them perfect for travel! Do as many reps as you can within a minute, moving to the next exercise without stopping. Rest for 90 seconds, and then repeat the entire circuit three or four times.

• Make a holiday training plan in advance. Don’t leave it to chance. Otherwise you won’t make it happen. For most, planning to work out in the morning is the best option, so that you don’t talk yourself out of it after a long day (or when a better option like a last-minute holiday get-together comes along).

OMEGA OB-GYN WELCOMES DR. MELODI REESE-HOLLEY

Dr. Reese-Holley’s scope of practice includes routine and high risk obstetrical care, well-woman care, contraception management, gynecology, and minimally-invasive and Robotic-Assisted surgical procedures.

She has a special interest in patient education so that they may be active participants in their well-being and make informed healthcare decisions.

• Get the whole family involved! The holidays are family time. Sign everyone up for a local 5K. Or play (active) outdoor games as a group. Take a daily walk. Just get moving!

• Stay hydrated. The brain can sometimes confuse hunger for thirst. A large glass of water before a meal can lessen the amount you consume.

• Every year, Runner’s World Magazine challenges readers to run at least one mile every day from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day. This sounds like an excellent plan! If running isn’t your thing, come up with your own fitness challenge.

• Buy yourself some cute new workout clothes (or equipment you’ve been coveting) right before the holidays begin as extra inspiration. It’s perfectly acceptable to indulge for a night or two, but you probably don’t want to do so for the entire holiday season. We are going to guess that you will be very disappointed with yourself come January 1st. And your resolutions will seem that much more impossible. So set yourself up for success! Your mind and body will thank you.

Providing services for all your Gynecological needs to help YOU stay HEALTHY! CENTRAL YMCA

2200 S. Davis 817-274-9622 NORTH YMCA 1005 Skyline 817-548-9622 COOPER STREET YMCA

7120 S. Cooper 817-419-9629

STATE OF

FOR THE ASPIRING ARTISAN

If you’ve ever longed to watch family or friends furiously whip up a batch of homemade butter right in their very own kitchen, the Churncraft butter churn has you covered. Two quarts of cream become a pound of butter and a quart of buttermilk in just 10-15 minutes of churning. It’s like making whipped cream or ice cream by hand, only at the end you have delicious butter! Every churn is built by hand in Connecticut. Do smell some Christmas pancakes?

$240, Churncraft.com

The Quirky Kitchen Gift Guide

For the family foodie that has it all, the classic stand mixer or imported chef’s knife might feel a little too… expected. Why not whip up something a little more unorthodox this year? Who can say no to a charming new piece of kitchen gadgetry?

BY BRANDON DAIKER

FOR THE HIPSTER HERBALIST

Pal always got a single pinky finger extended skyward, fingers clasped around a cup of exotic imported leaves carefully steeped? Check out the Tea Zinger from Zing Anything, which allows you to infuse, steep, and dispense drinks all from the same handy tumbler. Use the pressing or grating attachments with the special bottom compartment that keeps zest locked away, and fill the top compartment with loose leaf tea, then let the hot water flow in and do its thing. Orange green tea? Hot lemon water? A little chai with extra turmeric? Truly we have entered an era of science.

$29.99, ZingAnything.com

FOR THE BESPOKE BARTENDER

If your gift-receiving acquaintance is more the type to mash up some mint leaves for a mojito as opposed to simply cracking a cold one, you might turn to the fine assortment of masterful muddlers from The Wooden Palate. Entirely handmade in Los Angeles from American oak and walnut, the heirloom-quality pieces are finished with all-natural oils before being sent on their way. Drop one of these under the tree and maybe you’ll even receive a nice cold old-fashioned as a thank you.

$65, TheWoodenPalate.com

FOR THE MEAT MAVEN

No cook worth their weight in perfect brisket should be without an instant-read meat thermometer, and even if they’ve already got one, odds are good that they don’t have the Rolls-Royce of meat thermometers—the Thermapen Mk4 by ThermoWorks. Based on a scientific-quality thermocouple as opposed to a cheaper thermistor, the readout is accurate to 0.7°F after just two seconds. It turns on when you open it, sleeps when you set it down and wakes when you pick it up, the display rotates and backlights automatically, and it’s waterproof. And the single AAA battery lasts for 3,000 hours. Widely regarded as the best instant-read thermometer out there, home cooks and pro chefs alike rave about this little guy. $99, ThermoWorks.com

Hostess with the Mostest

Being the best holiday host you can be, while retaining your sanity

There’s no place like home for the holidays!

If this year it’s your turn to welcome everyone to your place, you’ll want to ensure that the holiday season goes smoothly for both you and your guests. When you’re the host of a family get together, keeping your life simple and organized is almost always the key to a successful holiday, and being an accommodating host means planning ahead. You’ll want your guests to feel comfortable in your home, whether they are staying for a meal or the entire holiday weekend. Be prepared to be flexible, because things don’t always go according to plan. Here are some basics for holiday hosting to guarantee that your Christmas season is full of comfort and joy!

HOSTING THE HOLIDAY MEAL

When planning for a large holiday meal, it’s important to make sure that every guest feels important and welcomed, and the key to a successful Christmas meal starts with the menu. Beyond preparing those favorite dishes, also be aware beforehand of any dietary restrictions your guests may have so that you can have options for them regarding food choices. Is someone

lactose intolerant or sugar-free? Make sure you have at least one dessert to fit their needs. Knowing your guests’ needs beforehand can make the entire meal go smoother. Supply vegetarian options, and have at least a few options that are gluten-free. Use small chalkboards or calligraphy and cardstock to label items made especially for certain needs.

HOSTING A DAYLONG HOLIDAY

If your family members are arriving early and planning to stay all day, make sure everyone feels not only welcomed, but useful! Delegate all your tasks for Christmas dinner so that you aren’t the only one doing all the work. If this means setting up tables, planning for children’s activities, cooking side dishes, and keeping the public spaces tidy, make sure everyone—young and old—has a way to be a part of the holiday preparation.

HOSTING OVERNIGHT GUESTS

If you have family arriving from out of town who will stay overnight, have guest baskets ready in their bedrooms. Sample sizes of soaps, shampoos, and lotions are a nice touch. When planning for your guest basket, think of items that are often forgotten: a razor, a comb, a pair of warm socks. A handwritten note to accompany the basket makes sure guests know that the basket was put together just for them. And did you remember the Wi-Fi password? Make sure they have freshly laundered towels and a clean space to place their items while they are your guests. Cut flowers or a poinsettia in the room makes anyone feel welcome. For an added bonus, add a pitcher of water with clean glasses near the bedside. Small touches can help guests—whether they are grown family members or new additions—feel welcomed and at home.

Regardless of whether your holiday party plans are large or small, you can be the winning host by welcoming everyone with your best brand of holiday hospitality.

Cutting Back on the Crazy Christmasfor

BY MIMI GREENWOOD KNIGHT

I’ve been dreading this one for a while. With both of our daughters living in other countries, Christmas 2016 will be the first time my husband and I won’t have all our children home for the holidays. As I’m trying to get myself used to the idea of a Christmas that’s very different from the 25 that came before it, I’m thinking what better time to reevaluate all this Christmas crazy—the unchecked consumerism, the dashing to and fro, the trying to be all things to all people—and think about some strategies for making things less frenzied and more meaningful? So, dear reader, here are some ideas we might both consider.

Less-is-More Decorating—Rather than dragging all that holiday googa down from the attic, what about a simple, tasteful wreath on the door, some fresh garland on the mantles, tiny white lights throughout the house, and a live potted tree to be replanted in the yard when Christmas is over?

Wise Man Christmas—Help take the kids’ focus off of toys and presents and onto the birth of the Savior by only giving them three Christmas gifts each (as many as Christ received from the Wise Men). For fun, include categories like something you want, something you need, and something to wear or something to read. And create a Christmas morning treasure hunt with clues the family can follow to each gift.

Give the Gift of Time—This could mean gifts of concert or movie tickets, coupons for indoor rock climbing, or a mani/pedi day. Or it could mean I-OweYous for special outings or uninterrupted time with your child, your spouse, a sibling, or a friend, in the days before or after Christmas.

Pay it Forward—Spend Christmas day volunteering somewhere as a family or with a friend. Give the staff of a local soup kitchen the day off while you take their place, or help deliver Christmas meals for Meals on Wheels. In lieu of gifts, you can also make donations in someone’s name to non-profits like Heifer International or the Arbor Day Foundation.

MAKE IT A HOMEMADE CHRISTMAS

I realize we’re not all P. Allen Smith. But with the help of sites like Pinterest, there’s probably something you could make and share from the heart this Christmas. Dip some holiday pretzels. Make hot cocoa mix, handmade body butter, or homemade liqueurs. Many hobby supply stores offer classes to help you learn to make a wreath, Christmas tree ornament, or other DIY gifts. If you happen to be the crafty types yourself, your gift could be a class for friends or the children of your friends to make their presents with your guidance.

Dirty Santa or Yankee Swap

Whatever you call it, rather than exchanging a Mount Rushmore of gifts with your extended family or your circle of friends, each contribute one gift and a gift swapping game that can extend the fun for hours.

Buy Local—Bless the gift recipient and your local economy by buying gifts from local craftsmen and merchants. Shop Christmas craft fairs and farmers markets, then make baskets of artisan soaps, jellies, or sauces. Shop family-owned businesses for unique, even one-of-a-kind gift

items. An added benefit is getting to know more people in your town.

White Elephant Christmas—Why not? What’s wrong with exchanging items you own but don’t use or regifting (no, that’s not a dirty word) something you were given but can’t or won’t use?

(But be sure you remember who gave you the gift, so you don’t hurt feelings.)

Yes, I’m secretly still hoping my girls will surprise me by showing up Christmas morning. But in the meantime, I’m gonna try doing and buying less and celebrating a whole lot more.

Cutting Back the Crazy on the Calendar

1. Think of the very best Christmases of your life and jot down some words that describe them: joyous, relaxing, family, Christ-centered.

2. Now fill in the commitments you know you have for December: the kids’ school play, office Christmas party, church nativity performance.

3. Now step back and evaluate your family calendar. Is there enough downtime to enjoy your family and friends?

4. Are there commitments you can eliminate?

5. Now revisit your descriptive words and think of ways to make them apply to the time you have free.

Thirty years from now, these are the childhood Christmases your kids will remember. What memories do you hope they’ll have? How can you create them?

The Family Gadget Gift Guide

Look no further than across your own kitchen table to gaze upon the glorious era of future tech we have wrought—there, illuminated only by the glow of a personal smart device, will you find the eyes of your partner, children, and grandparents, individually fixated on an animated photo of a cat tripping a baby or a sloth seated upright at a classroom desk.

Instead of shoveling yet another insular, single-person lump of tech into every individual’s stocking this year, why don’t we focus on what really matters: lumps of tech that the whole family can enjoy together?

BY BRANDON DAIKER

FOR THE INQUISITIVE INTERROGATOR

Picture it: in the throes of postChristmas and pre-New Year laziness, you’re feeling so sapped of motivation that merely picking up your phone to call in a dinner delivery seems like a bridge too far. Enter the nearly magical always-listening Amazon Echo, a do-it-all doo-dad about the size of a Pringles can that serves as your personal voice assistant, shopper, and smart device hub. You can ask it what’s on your calendar, implore it to set a timer for you, have it fetch and read recipes out loud, or get it to play podcasts or tunes over its beefy built-in speaker. And yes, it’ll even order you a pizza.

$179.99, Amazon.com

FOR THE MEANS-WELL MISPLACER

Keys, wallets, pets?—even if you’ve got a good system in place for where you left them, they’re not always there when you come back. It’s hard to solve the problem of why exactly things disappear, Tile trackers do a pretty good job of helping you make them reappear. Pair each Tile—about the size of a piece of chocolate—with your phone, then hook them to whatever you want to keep tabs on. As long as they’re within 100 feet of you, you can ring the trackers using your phone. If they’re further away, the map will show the last place you had it. If it’s way out there, other Tile users will automatically update your item location just by passing near it. And if you lost your phone? Just double tap one of the Tiles, and the phone will ring, even if you left it on silent. Not too shabby.

$25-30, TheTileApp.com

FOR THE REMINISCING RETRO-GAMER

If your household contained both a child and a television set between the years of 1985 and 1990, odds are good that you had a Nintendo hooked up to it at some point. Video games have gotten a lot more complex since then, so Nintendo has taken it upon themselves to return to their roots and release the NES Classic Edition, a miniaturized 21st century update of that familiar grey box. It has 30 original games from the late 1980s built in, comes with a controller, and hooks up with HDMI right to a brand new TV with no hassle. You don’t even need to flip it to channel 3. $59.99, various retailers

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FOR THE DILIGENT DOCUMENTER

Everyone’s carrying around a camera now, but when you can fire off a dozen pictures in a second or two, it feels like you lose a little something, doesn’t it? Usher back in the days of yesteryear with the acutely novel Fujifilm INSTAX mini 8 instant camera, a cute and compact camera which does things the old fashioned way—stamping your photos instantaneously onto quick developing film that pops right out of the camera after you grab your shot. In a uniquely digital world that’s mostly set film by the wayside, there’s still something novel about snapping some physical photos with the fam. $55, various retailers

Rebecca Ashbrook Carrell LoveServeShine.com

Twitter: @RebeccaLSS

90.9 KCBI/ kcbi.org

One Way Relationships and Second-hand Faith

The LORD came and stood there, calling as at the other times, “Samuel! Samuel!” Then Samuel said, “Speak, for Your servant is listening.”

1 SAMUEL 10 NIV

It was summer of 2008 and hotter than youknow-what. I remember this well because that was the summer we decided to move to a different part of Flower Mound, Texas.

With just a few weeks to go, I decided to take the kids up to Kansas City to visit my sisters while we had workers fi x a few things at our house. While I was there, I lost my voice.

Like, really lost it. Not that cool, scratchy, husky Sophia Bush sound, but gone. Nada.

Not even a whisper.

No biggie. I’d had laryngitis before, and my voice always came back, good as new.

This time, however, was different.

Blame it on moving, blame it on exhaustion, blame it on my four-and-a-half-hour radio shift each morning—blame it on whatever— but this time it didn’t come back.

I mean, it came back, just at half-power. When I lost my voice, I didn’t let it fully recover before pushing it, so I developed nodules. Nodules are little calluses on the vocal folds, and bad news for radio people.

I could work, but that was about it. I spent eight months on the church sidelines, mouthing the lyrics to the worship songs I’d once led. I tried steroid treatments and voice therapy, but nothing worked.

Finally, the doctor prescribed seven days of absolute voice rest.

Ever the overachiever, I went nine.

Those nine days were extremely diffi cult.

When you can’t chime in on conversations, people forget you’re there. So much of relating to people is verbal, and when that’s taken away, relationships take a hit.

I could nod or shake my head. I could smile or frown, but unless we use words, meaning is lost.

One of the hardest things about that time was that I felt unheard and unknown. I had stories I longed to tell and encouragement I longed to give. I wanted to sing to my babies and share with my husband, Mike. There was so much of myself that I had to keep to myself, and that goes against the way God created us.

Have you ever considered that the same is true with the LORD?

From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible is about a God who delights to reveal Himself to His people. When God made us, He patterned us after Himself, which means we inherited our desire to be known from Him:

Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, in our likeness, and let them rule over the fi sh of the sea and the birds of the air, over the livestock, over all the earth, and over all the creatures that move along the ground. So God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created Him; male and female He created them.”

—Genesis 1:26-27 NI

I fear that we are missing it. We long for revelation yet miss it entirely if we don’t lean in and listen.

And what did He do next?

He spoke to them. God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fi ll the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fi sh of the sea and the birds of the air and over every living creature that moves on the ground.”

—Genesis 1:28 NIV

God is, in the Scriptures, a communicator. He spoke to Abraham and through Moses. He appeared in the dreams and visions of the Prophets, and fi nally, He sent us His Son.

The Word became fl esh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.

—John 1:14 NIV

Why would He do that, if He didn’t long to reveal Himself?

I have a burden on my heart for the Church today.

I fear that we are missing it. We long for revelation yet miss it entirely if we don’t lean in and listen.

Many of us sit through a sermon on Sunday, listen to praise and worship music on Monday, and might even make it to Bible study on Thursday. We listen to what other people say about Him, sing songs other people pen about Him, and tweet what still others write about Him.

But if we aren’t opening our Bibles and listening to Him, we don’t really have a relationship with Him. When I lost my voice, conversations were one-sided. I didn’t get to contribute. I couldn’t play a part. My ideas, my thoughts, my counsel, went unheard. When we don’t come to the LORD in the Scriptures, we aren’t inviting Him to speak. Can I share a secret with you?

David the Psalmist, the man after God’s own heart, says He wants to confi de in you.

The LORD confi des in those who fear Him; He makes His covenant known to Him.

—Psalm 25:14 NIV

A beautiful sentiment echoed in the Proverbs: For the LORD detests a perverse man but takes the upright into His confi dence.

—Proverbs 3:32 NIV

Think about that for a moment. Don’t skip over those words, but let them sink in.

The LORD, the Creator of Heaven and Earth, who sits outside of time and space has things He wants to say to you. To you

At a recent conference Bible teacher Beth Moore put it this way: “He’s not going to give your word to anyone else.” That ache in your heart? He can fi ll it. That nervousness in your stomach? He can stop it.

Those racing thoughts in your mind? He can silence them. No one knows you like Jesus. No one loves you like Jesus. No one is more reliable and trustworthy than Jesus. No one is better equipped to speak directly into your hurts and hardships than He is. No one gets you like He does.

Friends, let us devote ourselves to more than devotionals and say with Samuel, “Speak, LORD, your servant is listening.”

I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead.

—Philippians 3:10-11 NIV

If you are interested in learning more about understanding the Bible, please join Rebecca Carrell and Bible teachers Lisa Harper, Christine Caine, Jen Wilkin, and Debbie Stuart at the 2017 HeartStrong Faith Women’s Conference. Click HERE for details, registration, and early bird pricing! #HeartStrongFaith is a faith that sustains in a culture of doubt.

Every family has their own traditions when it comes to get-together food—the recipes that get brought out when it’s time share stories and celebrate another year together. Our tradition at Living is sharing a few of our own recipes old and new with you, and we’re back with another handful. Slide up!

THE MOST AWESOME CHOCOLATE FUDGE

Keri Hampton, client services manager

“My family begs me to make this fudge every year—it’s divine! I like to experiment, and I’ve found this recipe to be very easily customized. Substitute the milk chocolate chips for an equal amount of Andes mints or peanut butter chips, or instead of nuts, try crumbled up toffee. There are a lot of fun possibilities!”

1 7-ounce jar marshmallow crème

1½ cups white sugar ²/³ cup evaporated milk ¼ cup butter ¼ teaspoon salt

2 cups milk chocolate chips

1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

½ cup chopped nuts (optional)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Line an 8”x8” pan with plastic wrap. In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine marshmallow crème, sugar, evaporated milk, butter, and salt. Bring to a full boil, and cook for 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and pour in the chocolate chips. Stir until chocolate is melted and mixture is smooth. Stir in nuts (if using) and vanilla. Pour into prepared pan. Chill in refrigerator for 2 hours or until firm.

BUTTERSCOTCH BREAKFAST ROLLS

Mimi Filbin, senior account executive

“These delicious pull apart rolls are a family favorite, super easy to make, and prepared the night before. Place in the oven Christmas morning and they’ll be ready to serve by the time you’re done opening presents.”

1 package Rhodes frozen rolls (about 20-24)

1 package regular butterscotch pudding (not instant)

½ cup dark brown sugar

½ cup chopped nuts

¼ cup melted butter

Place frozen rolls in a greased bundt or tube pan. Sprinkle each ingredient over rolls and let rise or leave overnight. Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes. Rub top of rolls with butter before turning out of pan immediately.

CHRISTMAS STRUDEL

Erica Lyle, senior account executive

“This was my mother-in-law’s recipe. You can change it up with a variety of different fillings if you’re after either sweet or savory. It slices up into 1” pieces and can also be frozen for later. Have a merry Christmas!”

3½ cups flour pinch of salt

1 cup milk

½ cup margarine, melted

1 packet yeast

¼ cup warm water

4 tablespoons sugar

Proof yeast in a cup with warm water and sugar. Melt margarine (or your choice of oils) and add milk in a measuring cup. Add the yeast mixture to the milk mixture and stir. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt, then make a well in the flour and pour in the liquid, stirring until incorporated. Cover with a damp cloth and let stand in a warm place to rise.

After rising, divide the dough into two pieces and roll out into an oblong shape. Cut 1” slits on the long edges. Add your choice of fillings. (Some ideas: sausage with green chili peppers, chopped ham and cheddar, pie filling and cream cheese.) Fold the short ends toward the middle, fold the long ends in, and braid the slit pieces. Tuck the final piece to seal the loaf. Bake at 350°F for about 45 minutes, or until golden brown.

DESSERT POTATOES

Linda Needham, senior account executive

“When my children were young, I tweaked a simple potato casserole recipe for them—they loved them so much that my son Mark started calling them ‘dessert potatoes,’ and that’s what they’ve been called since then. No holiday is complete without them, and I always make an extra dish just for Mark.”

5 medium potatoes, peeled and cut

1½ cups cheddar cheese, grated

SUGAR COATED PECANS

Linda Jost, senior account executive

“While I was enjoying my first Thanksgiving with the Jost family in St. Louis, I saw that they had a table of desserts, but no pecan pie! I was so distraught that the next year I started bringing pies. When my dad developed diabetes, I stopped with the pies so as not to tempt him… but these sweet pecans still bring that holiday taste.”

4 cups pecan halves

1 egg white

1 cup sugar

1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon salt

In a large bowl, beat the egg white and a tablespoon of water until frothy. Stir in the pecans, sugar, cinnamon, and salt, and mix until nuts are evenly coated. Spread onto a lightly greased baking sheet, and bake at 300°F for 30 to 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes, until golden. Cool and store in a tightly covered container.

EASY SHRIMP ÉTOUFFÉE

Lucy Krogman, account executive

“We received this recipe from a family friend in New Orleans in 1985, and it’s been a favorite of our family and friends ever since! It’s even better the next day.”

1 pound shrimp, peeled, deveined, and cut into thirds

1 large onion, chopped

4 green onions, chopped

2 tablespoons parsley

1 small can tomato sauce

1 can chopped tomatoes with green chilies

2 cans golden mushroom soup

½ stick of margarine

3 tablespoons flour

½ teaspoon minced garlic

4 cups cooked rice

In a large pot, melt margarine, add flour, and mix in onions, garlic, and parsley to flour while still white. Cook until add-ins are clear, then add tomatoes and tomato sauce, mushroom soup, and two cans of water. Cook for 20-30 minutes, then add uncooked shrimp and cook for 20 more minutes. Remove from heat, cover, and let stand to season. Serve over rice and with saltine crackers and butter.

HONEY BAKED HAM WITH SPICED APPLES AND PEACHES

Jennifer Langley, senior account executive

“My family loves this ham, and we always make it around the holidays. It’s important that the ham be uncured, humanely raised, and without nitrites or any kind of sugar. It can be difficult to find a grocery store ham like this, but it makes a big difference in the flavor. You can buy them locally from farms, or some online retailers.”

3 pound sugar-free ham

3 large organic Granny Smith apples, cored and sliced

3 organic yellow peaches, pitted and sliced

1 cup raw organic honey, melted

2 teaspoons cinnamon

2 teaspoons mustard powder

½ teaspoon ground cloves

¼ teaspoon nutmeg

¼ teaspoon allspice

½ cup water

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Rinse the ham under cold water and pat dry, then place in a roasting pan. Mix the honey, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and allspice in a bowl. In a separate small bowl, mix mustard powder and water until combined. Add mustard water to honey and spices, and mix well. Using a basting brush, baste your ham with the glaze. Spread the fruit around the ham in the roasting pan, then baste fruit and ham with glaze. Bake until the ham reaches an internal temperature of 150°F, adding more glaze every 20-30 minutes. Remove and tent with foil. Let stand for 15 minutes, then slice and serve with spiced fruit.

LEMON POUND CAKE

Lucy Krogman, account executive

“I found this recipe in Tiger Beat magazine 44 years ago… it was the cake that Donny Osmond’s mom would make to feed all of her sons! It was the very first cake I ever made, and I’ve never come across anyone that doesn’t love it and request I make it again for their birthday. It’s super easy, and a really good tried and true recipe!”

For the cake:

1 yellow cake mix

1 lemon pudding mix

4 eggs

½ cup cooking oil

1 cup milk

For the glaze:

3 lemons

1 cup powdered sugar

Mix all the cake ingredients for 3 minutes on low speed, then 5 minutes on high speed. Pour into a tube pan that has been greased with shortening and a little flour. Bake for 1 hour at 325°F, then remove and let cool for 30 minutes. Remove cake from pan and poke holes throughout down the middle, sides, and through the top. Juice the lemons and mix with the powdered sugar. Taste it as you don’t want it to be too tart. Glaze cake by spooning the mixture over and into the holes, going back to add more as needed.

3 tablespoons butter

teaspoon salt

teaspoon pepper

Boil the potatoes until fork tender, then mash or whip in a buttered casserole dish. Mix together with the other ingredients, then bake at 350°F for 30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.

Add

This time of year can be one of the most stressful, especially when it comes to cooking. With so many recipes to choose from and an endless desire to show off for all of your friends and family, the pressure is on. No need to fear. We’ve got the ultimate meal that’ll have guests singing your praises for years to come.

Hearty Holidays

BY MEGHAN BASSETT

clumps that form. Cook until thickened. Serve sauce warm with short ribs.

GARLIC PARMESAN MASHED POTATOES

Serves 6

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

2 pounds potatoes, peeled and diced

1 tablespoon salt

1 cup half and half

3 cloves garlic cloves, smashed

1 teaspoon dried oregano 4 ounces grated parmesan Chopped chives for garnish

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add potatoes and boil until fork tender.

In a small saucepan, heat half and half with garlic cloves and oregano. Once simmering, remove from heat.

Drain potatoes and add back to the pot. Mash potatoes with a potato masher. Stir in garlic oregano cream mixture. Once combined, stir in parmesan until melted. Season with salt to taste. Garnish with chopped chives and serve immediately.

CHOCOLATE COVERED CHERRY

GALETTE

Serves 8

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

FOR THE CRUST:

1½ cups flour

1½ teaspoon sugar

¼ teaspoon salt

8 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed into 1/2” pieces

¹/³ cup ice water

FOR THE FILLING:

2½ cups pitted cherries

¼ cup water

1 tablespoon granulated sugar

1 tablespoon brown sugar

1 tablespoon cornstarch

2 teaspoons lemon juice

Pinch of salt

½ cup dark chocolate chips

2 tablespoons melted butter

Turbinado sugar

In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, and salt. Using your hands, mix in half of the butter, squeezing the cubes between your fingers, until the mixture resembles a coarse meal. Add in the remaining butter, squeezing the cubes between your fingers once again, until the largest pieces of butter are approximately the size of a pea. Drizzle water over the dough and bring together, kneading 3 to 4 times. You may not need to use all the water, so use a little at a time until it comes together. Flatten the dough into a disk, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and cool in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

When ready to bake, preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add half the cherries with the water, sugars, cornstarch, lemon juice, and salt for the filling.

Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is thick. Remove from heat and stir in other half of the cherries.

Roll out the galette dough into a 14” round.

Arrange the cherry filling in the center of the dough, leaving about a 1 to 2-inch edge of dough all the way around. Sprinkle chocolate chips over the filling.

Fold the pastry edge up and over the filling, pleating the dough in evenly spaced folds, pressing to seal as you work your way around. Brush the pastry border and edges with the melted butter. Sprinkle the edges generously with turbinado sugar.

Bake for 35 to 45 minutes. Transfer the galette with the parchment paper onto a rack to cool for approximately 15 minutes before serving. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream.