Living Magazine November 2021

I am so thankful I made the decision to call DSC. I had tried so many diets over the years and didn't find one that was 'livable' for me. Everyone's journey is different and personal, both in timing and needs. I had started the paperwork for gastric surgery but just couldn't feel comfortable about that being MY path. So the call to DSC was my 'one last attempt' before completing that paperwork. Starting with the very first staff me never I met I knew I had made a good decision. The support and very real caring I have found with the incredible ladies here are so much a part of why u am where I am today. They have encouraged me, supported me, taught me, laughed with me and cried with me all along the way. I haven't yet reached the weight I am aiming for, but know beyond a doubt I will because I know that I have found my path to a healthy me. DSC is no long a 'diet' that I am 'on' or 'falling off of' again and again. This is now my path, my life.

89.4 LOST MARGARET M. FROM MANSFIELD, TEXAS POUNDS IN 37 WEEKS.

14 years and over 23,000 labor and delivery patients, like Ashley.

Twenty-eight weeks into her pregnancy with fraternal twins, Ashley Donnell awoke to cramping. After coming in for a checkup, her doctors diagnosed her condition and acted fast. Ashley trusted her medical team at Methodist Mansfield Medical Center, and seven hours later her twins were born, 12 weeks early and safely in the care of our advanced neonatal intensive care unit. Today, Ashley and her twins are standing in front of a mural in downtown Mansfield, commissioned by the same women and children’s services team that cared for them.

Scan to watch the Labor and Delivery mural being created at Main & Broad St. Mansfield, TX.

Find out more about our Labor and Delivery services and amenities at MethodistHealthSystem.org/Mansfield

Ranked among the Best Hospitals in the nation once again. There’s nothing we love better than caring for you. Get to know the team that’s consistently ranked among the best in Texas. Make an appointment today by scanning the QR code to download MyBSWHealth.

to download MyBSWHealth

letter from the publisher

“I will praise the name of God with a song; I will magnify him with thanksgiving.”

Psalm 69:30

While I try to foster an attitude or gratitude, all year round, I’m so glad in this country we have a certain month set aside when we—all of us— take time to stop and concentrate on just how blessed we are. Across the US, Thanksgiving Day will be a celebration of family, food, and football. But for Christians, it has a deeper meaning that goes to the core of our beliefs.

This year, I’m making a special effort to keep God at the forefront of my family’s holiday celebration. Sure, the decorations are fun. I love the special holiday foods, all the snuggle winter clothes, and can you ever have too much pumpkin spice everything? But the real meaning of Thanksgiving is slowing down and thanking our Father for the blessings of health, happiness, friends, family, financial bounty, and most of all salvation through His Son.

It’s a gift none of us asked for or deserve but a gift our Father lavished on us as He calls us His sons and daughters. 2 Corinthians 9:15 says it best, “Thanks be to God for his inexpressible gift.” Let’s let that be our focus this Thanksgiving season. May it be a beautiful time of fellowship and blessing for you and your family.

MISTY DANIELS, OWNER/PUBLISHER mdaniels@livingmagazine.net

682-556-1246

letters from OUR MAYORS

mayor MICHAEL EVANS MANSFIELD

November is when we focus on “Thanksgiving and Gratitude.” We continue to press ahead toward the ideal of bringing our city together. We seek to collaborate with residents in charting a bold course forward. City staff will continue meeting with the 2022 Bond Election Steering Committee throughout November. The committee has heard presentations about a multigenerational facility that includes fitness, aquatics, recreation and library spaces, a veteran’s memorial, a town center, parks, trails, a Miracle League field and street projects.

Residents will have opportunities to offer feedback about these projects Nov. 16 at 2271 Matlock Rd. There will be morning, afternoon and evening sessions that day. More information about the city's bond program can be found at mansfieldtexas.gov/mycitymychoice.

Snow, Ho Ho! The holidays are upon us. To kick off the season, you can get an early look at Prairie Lights Sat., Nov. 20, at the Sneak-a-Peak 5K for runners, joggers and fast walkers. Or stroll through the lights Nov. 21. Register at prairielights.org. Or, join me on my Cyclin’ with the Mayor Prairie Lights Ride on Monday, Nov. 22. Meet me in the parking lot of Lynn Creek Park from 4:45 -5:45 p.m. Gates will close at 5:45 p.m., and ride begins at 6 p.m.

Prairie Lights begins Thanksgiving night, Nov. 25, and continues through New Year’s Eve, Dec. 31. The award-winning drive through light display will open nightly at 6 p.m. We are delighted to bring back Holiday Village, Photos with Santa, the Food Court and Walk-through lighted forest this year, pandemic allowing.

Elf The Musical, presented by the Grand Prairie Arts Council, is showing at Uptown Theater Dec. 3-5, 11-12. A full array of educational programs in-person are offered

Mansfield will also be home to several veteran-focused activities and events in early November. Our Veterans Day Parade and Salute is 10 a.m. Nov. 6 in Historic Downtown Mansfield. From Nov. 5-7, the “Remembering Our Fallen” traveling veteran’s memorial will be stationed at The LOT Downtown. There will also be a veteran art show and an evening of music honoring veterans with the Fort Worth Songwriters Association. Go to mansfieldtexas.gov/veteransday for more information about how Mansfield will honor veterans. We hope you join us in showing them our gratitude.

this fall at any of our Grand Prairie libraries, with the popular Snow Ho Ho party Sat., Dec. 11, at the Warmack Library, 760 Bardin Road, from 11 a.m. –12:30 p.m. featuring crafts, activities, and rides on the Polar Express. All library programs and classes can be found at gptx.org/library.

And, remember to shop local, keeping our valuable sales tax dollars in town to continue to improve our quality of life in Grand Prairie. If you want unique Shop and Ship gift tags to affix to presents you buy in or ship to Grand Prairie, you may get a set of 10 from the Warmack Library, Main Library, City Hall Central or Tourist Center Nov 1 – Dec. 31 (while supplies last).

Be kind, wear a mask, wash your hands and happy holidays to all.

There’s no other place like Arlington, Texas. One of reasons that’s true is our Arlington Tomorrow Foundation which, since May of 2007, has awarded nearly 500 grants to local charities and city departments for a whopping $38 million. Just this past year, they presented approximately $9.6 million through 34 grants to local groups dedicated to keeping our American Dream City strong through educational and recreational opportunities, arts and culture, and social services. Those grants included $69,000 for Arlington’s Four-Day Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Advancing the Dream Celebration, $26,620 for Arlington ISD Education Foundation’s Back-to-School Kickoff event, $50,000 for SafeHaven of Tarrant County, and $2 million for Theatre Arlington renovations. They gave Downtown Arlington $10,000 for a

community health and wellness program, $34,000 for the Ramblin’ Roads Music Festival, and to date have awarded $5 million to our future National Medal of Honor Museum, set to open in 2024. A heartfelt “thank you” to all who work to enable the Arlington Tomorrow Foundation to make such an impact on the best city in the world.

Be sure to visit ArlingtonTX.gov for a list of fun city events scheduled this month, including Cops on the Court, a friendly game between youth athletes and our own Arlington PD scheduled for November 3rd at East Library and Rec Center, Cupcake Wars baking competition at Cliff Nelson Recreation Center on November 13th, and Rec and Roll free recreation event at Clarence Foster Park on November 18th. Hope to see y’all there!

NOVEMBER

2022 DADDY DAUGHTER DANCE

Arlington Parks and Recreation

Registration opens in November for the Daddy Daughter Dance. The dance is February 18 and February 19, 2022. To register visit our website

NATURALLYFUN.ORG

NOVEMBER 12

NATURE NITE

Arlington Parks and Recreation

Join us for a nite under the stars as we learn more about this wonderful world around us. There will be educational activities, a dance party, free lawn games, crafts, paid attractions and food for purchase. Free. 6pm-10pm. All ages. Dottie Lynn Rec Center, 3200 Norwood Ln. To register visit our website.

NATURALLYFUN.ORG

NOVEMBER 13

WINTER CRAFT MARKET

The Oakridge School

We are hosting a huge Winter Craft Market from 9am-2pm. Come out and enjoy holiday shopping and seasonal snacks from over 90 vendors, plus a petting zoo and food trucks on-site. Entry is free and open to the public! 5900 W. Pioneer Pkwy. Contact Nadia DiStefano - 817-451-4994.

NOVEMBER 13 AND 27

MOBILE PET ADOPTION EVENT

Arlington

Adorable adoptable pets looking for new homes will be available at the mobile adoption

november 18

FRIENDSGIVING LUNCH

Arlington Parks and Recreation

Leave the cooking and cleaning behind and come join our Thanksgiving Luncheon at the EAST! It’s the perfect opportunity to share the holiday season with others and enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving meal with all the trimmings. We will have prizes and entertainment for your enjoyment. Space is limited and reservations are required. Lunch paperwork will need to be filled out prior to event. 11am-2pm. Free. 1817 New York Ave. Visit our website to register.

NATURALLYFUN.ORG

unit for immediate adoption! Visit with adoptable cats available inside PetSmart! Adoptions will be at the Petsmart® in South Arlington, 203 E. I-20 (Arlington Highlands) 10:30am-3:30pm. Scheduled events are subject to cancellation without notice due to weather conditions (heat, cold, storms, etc.) for the safety and protection of adoptable pets, volunteers, and staff.

NOVEMBER 13-14

CHRISTMAS MARKET EXPO

Arlington

Bring the kids out to visit Santa! We will be having our first holiday Christmas pageant! Registration today. We will have vendors, holiday music, 1000’s of unique items perfect for holiday gifts, drawings, prizes and more! Arlington Convention Center. Visit our website for additional information KIDSOUTANDABOUT.COM

NOVEMBER 18 - JANUARY 2

THE TEXAS

CHRISTKINDL MARKET

Arlington

Inspired by the cherished German tradition, the Texas Christkindl Market is a free, familyfriendly market featuring a unique shopping experience for holiday gifts, decorations, and unique one-of-a-kind finds. Shop for traditional handcrafted gifts and collectibles straight from Germany including exclusive Käthe Wohlfahrt merchandise and designs from the iconic Rothenburg ob der Tauber Christmas Village. Indulging in German treats and eats while enjoying festive music and shopping local vendors throughout the Market is what has made this a time-honored tradition in Arlington since 2010. 11am-9pm.

Choctaw Stadium (formerly Globe Life Park) 1000 Ballpark Way. Visit our website for information.

TXCHRISTKINDLMARKET.COM

NOVEMBER 20-21

SNEAK-A-PEEK 5K RUN/WALK/STROLL

Grand Prairie

Be the first to see all new displays at the 2021 Prairie Lights as you run, jog, walk or stroll through the lighted park. November 20 will be dedicated for runners, joggers and fast walkers. November 21 is set aside for those who want to walk and stroll through the lights. Lynn Creek Park, 5610 Lake Ridge Pkwy. Early registration is preferred, but onsite registration will be accepted. Visit our website for more information.

PRAIRIELIGHTS.ORG

NOVEMBER 22-24

THANKSGIVING BREAK CAMP

Arlington Parks and Recreation

Ages 5-12. 7am-6:30pm. Cost vary. Rec Centers Beacon, Cliff Nelson, Dottie Lynn, East, Elzie Odom. Visit our website for details.

NATUARLLYFUN.ORG

see more events in your area on LIVINGMAGAZINE.NET

PREMIERING IN NOVEMBER

NOVEMBER 24 // A BOY CALLED CHRISTMAS NETFLIX

Based on the book by Matt Haig, an ordinary boy called Nikolas sets out on an adventure into the snowy north in search of his father, who is on a quest to discover the fabled village of the elves, Elfhelm. With a headstrong reindeer called Blitzen and a loyal pet mouse by his side, Nikolas soon meets his destiny.

MONTH’S MUSIC

THIS MONTH IN MOVIE HISTORY

NOVEMBER 7, 2003 // ELF WILL FERRELL, ZOOEY DESCHANEL, JAMES CAAN DIR. JON FAVREAU (IRON MAN, CHEF)

This delightful holiday classic about Buddy the Elf traveling through the seven levels of the Candy Cane Forest, past the sea of twirly-swirly gumdrops, and through the Lincoln Tunnel in search of his birth father will make even the angriest of elves smile.

NOVEMBER 9 // JUST HAVEN’T MET YOU YET

BY SOPHIE COUSENS

Hopeless romantic and lifestyle reporter Laura’s business trip to the Channel Islands isn’t off to a great start. After an embarrassing encounter with the most attractive man, she’s ever seen in real life, she arrives at her hotel and realizes she’s grabbed the wrong suitcase from the airport. Her only consolation is its irresistible contents, each of which intrigues her more and more. The owner of this suitcase is clearly Laura’s dream man. Now, all she must do is find him.

What are the odds that she’d find The One on the same island where her parents first met and fell in love, especially as she sets out to write an article about their romance? As Laura’s mystery man proves difficult to find — and as she uncovers family secrets — she may have to reimagine the life and love she always thought she wanted.

HILLSIDE VILLAGE

IT’S WHERE THE COMMUNITY GATHERS

BY MEREDITH KNIGHT

ooking to spark your holiday spirit? Plan a trip to Hillside Village in Cedar Hill. During November and December, it’s the holiday gathering place for families with children. Anchored by Dillard’s, Dick’s Sporting Goods and Barnes & Nobles, Hillside Village offers a vibrant collection of favorite national fashion retailers, dining, and unique amenities that will get you right in the holiday spirit!

Always brimming with family fun, Hillside Village really comes alive during the holidays with events that bring our community together, including holiday crafts and holiday music surrounded by seasonal décor. Mark your calendar for the upcoming fun events including the annual Christmas tree lightening, Village Lights, Santa Photos, Santa Paws and Elf Academy. Enjoy ambient live music and carolers while you stroll and shop for everyone on your shopping list.

Families won’t want to miss Village Lights festival as Hillside Village kicks off the holiday season on Saturday, Nov. 20 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Guests can enjoy hot cocoa, holiday crafts, face painting, balloon artists, and get ready to experience a Winter WOW, Snow Tubing! For the fi rst time at Village Lights, kids can explore the potential of a real snow slide. They will be thrilled to slide down the eight-foot “real” snow slide and while you’re there, take time to make a snow angel, build a snowman, and play in 4000 lbs. of snow! K104 -FM Lady Jade will kick off the festivities at 5:30PM. Throughout the evening, Mrs. Claus combines holiday magic, toys coming to life, and a picture of Santa Claus magically speaking to the children in the Alfie Show. Then, at 7:30 PM, Santa will arrive to fl ip the switch and illuminate

the 100,000 lights on Hillside Village’s 30-foot, interactive tree synchronized with dancing lights.

Hillside Village is a fun spot to grab a family meal, too, with popular Razzoo’s Cajun Café, local fl are Crab N Bar, Cedar Hill’s favorite Mo’s Italia Express and the best sushi in town at California Avocado Roll & Sushi. Hillside Village is proud to announce new restaurants coming soon including Frida’s Tacos, DJ’s Steakhouse, and Wing Mac.

FRIDA’S TACOS – COMING SOON

Since 1986, Frida’s Tacos has celebrated its Mexican roots emphasizing the importance of fl avor and quality. Inspired by famed Mexican painter, Frida Kahlo, the cuisine is full of colors and flavors, reminiscent of her works. Get ready to experience a new gastronomic experience in an environment of art and good taste.

DJ’S STEAKHOUSE – COMING SOON

DJ's Steak House recaptures the fl avor of the open campfi re with a southern twist. Your family can enjoy steaks, chicken, and seafood, chargrilled to perfection. DJ’s specializes in the finest cuts of steaks and signature desserts, made from scratch daily.

WING MAC – COMING SOON

Can your kids ever really get enough mac and cheese and chicken wings? Of course not! Wing Mac is up for the challenge with a full menu of chicken wings, chicken tenders, and fl avored macaroni. They’ll beg to come back!

SANTA PHOTOS - STARTING NOVEMBER 21

Create memories with a special photo with Santa.

NOVEMBER 21 - 24

• SUNDAY 12:00 P.M. - 6:00 P.M.

• MONDAY - WEDNESDAY 3:00 P.M. - 7:00 P.M.

NOVEMBER 25 - DECEMBER 16

• MONDAY - THURSDAY 11:00 A.M. - 7:00 P.M.

• FRIDAY - SATURDAY 11:00 A.M. - 8:00 P.M.

• SUNDAY 12:00 P.M. - 6:00 P.M.

DECEMBER 17 - 23

• FRIDAY - SATURDAY 10:00 A.M. - 8:00 P.M.

• SUNDAY 12:00 P.M. - 6:00 P.M.

• MONDAY - THURSDAY 10:00 A.M. - 8:00 P.M.

DECEMBER 24 10:00 A.M. - 6:00 P.M.

ELF ACADEMY - INSPIRING KIDS TO CREATE HOLIDAY MAGIC DECEMBER 7

• TUESDAY 10:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.

LOCATED AT SANTA’S CORNER

PRESCHOOL CHILDREN CAN ENJOY CREATING THEIR OWN SPECIAL HOLIDAY CRAFT PROJECT TO TAKE HOME, ALONG WITH A SPECIAL TREAT! DECEMBER 14

• TUESDAY 4:00 P.M. – 6:00 P.M.

LOCATED AT SANTA’S CORNER

SCHOOL AGED KIDS ARE INVITED TO CLAIM THEIR FUN HOLIDAY CRAFT BOXES WITH A SPECIAL TREAT, WHILE SUPPLIES LAST.

HILLSIDE VILLAGE 305 WEST FM 1382, CEDAR HILL, TEXAS 75104 SHOPHILLSIDEVILLAGE.COM

is necessary ONLY ONE THING

BY LISA CHAN

od is too easily forgotten in all of the madness of our busy lives. Who has time to pay attention to spiritual things? We can sometimes be too busy, too tired, too entertained, or too overwhelmed to care.

Or maybe in our deepest heart, we do care, but we don’t even know what to do about it. On the one hand, we have all these tasks and duties and responsibilities weighing us down; on the other hand, we have God — the very God who says, “Be still , and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10).

Being still sounds nice. But we live in a squeeze of pressing demands. Does God really expect this of us?

In Luke 10:38–42, Jesus gives one of the most poignant answers: Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”

Many of us have felt like coming to Martha’s defense when we’ve read this. Poor soul. She only wanted to serve. We can’t all be like Mary, can we? But Jesus’s words ring in my ear every time I read this account: “one thing is necessary.” I have to ask myself, Do I actually believe that? Is it reflected in the way that I view my time?

I’m not used to thinking about what’s necessary. When I look at my time management, I usually break it down into three categories: (1) things I must do, such as paying bills or feeding my kids; (2) things I should do, such as exercising or cleaning out the creepy refrigerator; and (3) things I want to do, such as going out to dinner or shopping with my girls. But Jesus, our Lord, said only one thing is necessary. If this were a suggestion from a friend or an idea from a great book, I might be able to dismiss it as simplistic. But this is Jesus He’s not simplistic. He’s speaking to a woman’s heart and cutting right through her every defense.

DON’T SCROUNGE FOR CRUMBS

Imagine that God invited you to a great banquet. You see a magnificent table overflowing with spiritual food. Everything you really need is on that table: comfort, wisdom, peace, love,

worth, joy, victory, forgiveness, truth, patience, and the list goes on. God’s heart is that you would sit down at the table with him and eat as much as you need to walk away deeply satisfied (Psalm 107:9) and equipped “with everything good that you may do his will” (Hebrews 13:21).

But so many of us don’t sit and eat. We may dash in for a quick bite, but the little burst of energy fizzles out pretty quickly. We may stand outside the door, waiting for others who have had their fill to come and bring us some leftovers. This is not only lazy; it makes no sense when we are given a personal invitation. Sadly, I picture many of us crawling around under the table, picking up crumbs, wondering why we feel so spiritually empty and weak.

Come to the bountiful table. Sit with your generous Lord and feed your starving soul.

CHOOSE THE GOOD PORTION

What else did Jesus say about Mary? Not only was she doing the one necessary thing, but she had chosen the good portion. The good portion was necessary, but it also was a choice.

Our bodies won’t survive more than a few days without water. It is necessary for life. But you and I still make the choice every day to drink from a cup that literally sustains our life. The same is true of your spiritual cup: “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever” (Psalm 73:26).

Jesus was Mary’s portion. Is he yours? Jesus said, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst” (John 6:35). Is your hunger and thirst satisfied in Christ? Do you love being in his presence? If you are binging on junk food, you will not have an appetite for a fresh, healthy meal. And in the same way, your soul cannot crave the bread of life if, like Martha, you are “distracted with much serving” or “anxious and troubled about many things” (Luke 10:40–41).

Jesus comes to us in love and authority. Don’t discount his authority because of his love for you. It is Christ himself who tells us what is truly necessary. The next time you are tempted to think that there are many earthly things that you must do, remember what he said.

As the world careens on in all its frenetic madness, and many demands insist on our attention, we can become people who choose to be still, sit at the Lord’s feet, and listen to his voice. For it’s in his word that we will receive the good portion we need most.

Lisa Chan is married to Francis Chan. They have seven children and are the authors of You and Me Forever: Marriage in Light of Eternity. She is a guest contributor for DesiringGod.org.

ISAIAH 117

HOUSE

CARING FOR CHILDREN AWAITING FOSTER PLACEMENT

BY MIMI GREENWOOD KNIGHT

ot many mamas can say they got their child at WalMart. But I can. It was a random Tuesday morning when I received a call from our local Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) telling me there was a one-year-old boy entering the foster care system and asking whether we could take him into our home. Although my husband and I were expecting our first foster child, we didn’t know what age our child would be, so we weren’t prepared with diapers, clothes, and age-appropriate toys. No problem. Our case worker would meet us at WalMart and together we could gather the things the baby needed. That’s where we first met our blue-eyed Jonah who we were blessed to adopt, a year later. He came with an Elmo doll and two outfits stuffed in a trash bag. But many foster children come with just the clothes on their backs and don’t have a home immediately available for them like our Jonah did.

When they don’t, they’re often left to wait in a cubicle or conference room at a DFPS office, while a case worker scrambles to find them placement. Sometimes they wait for hours— sometimes for days—in a cold, impersonal government office.

There are currently 400,000 children in foster care in this country, nearly 15,000 in Texas alone, and, at any given time, hundreds are waiting for foster care placement.

In 2018, a woman named Ronda Paulson had a better idea. She decided they deserved more. What if there was a home? A loving home, where these traumatized, scared and anxious kids could go while they await foster care placement. A home where these children were given a hot meal, a warm bubble bath or shower and a comfy bed to sleep in. A home where they’d be provided new clothes and toys to play with. A cheerful, kid-friendly home, with loving volunteers who remind them they are not alone. That idea was the genesis of the first Isaiah 117 House in Tennessee. Currently, there are 5 open homes and over 20 counties in the process of opening a home around the country. The first Isaiah 117 House in Texas is coming to Dallas County. “We had our expansion kick-off on September 18th,” said Meagan Haasbroek, one of two Dallas County Expansion Coordinators. “For the next six months, we are focused on raising awareness. We’ll be visiting churches and attending meetings of local organizations and businesses to educate the community on what removal day looks like and how we want to change the way foster care begins.”

Lauren Schaefer, the other expansion coordinator said, “The mission of Isaiah 117 House is to reduce trauma for children on the day they are removed from their home, lighten the load of DFPS staff and ease the transition for future foster parents. These children are being taken from the only home they’ve ever known and we want to make sure they are seen for the person they are, not the thing that’s happened to them. We want to give them

their dignity back and to ensure they know that they have done nothing wrong.”

“The response from our community has been overwhelming,” Meagan said. “We realize not everyone feels led to foster, but the Isaiah 117 House offers many other ways to make a difference for these kids. People can help by joining us at 1:17 PM each afternoon as we stop wherever we are and pray that God moves powerfully to bring this resource to our community, for the children we will serve, the DFPS case workers and the foster families we will support.”

You can also get involved by attending our expansion meetings held on the last Thursday of every month from 6:30-7:30 PM at Calvary Baptist Church located at 401 W. Church Street in Grand Prairie, TX. Please follow Isaiah 117 House Dallas County on Facebook and Instagram and sign up for the monthly newsletter for the latest updates. Be sure to mark your calendar for April 28th for our Let’s Build This House Luncheon (time and location TBD).

“These children have done nothing wrong and all children deserve the love and safety of a home,” Lauren said. “Our goal is to provide that to them. It is going to take an army of God’s people to make this dream of ours come true, and an army is what we are trying to build. Please be praying about what part you can play in building this home.” Together we can change the question “What if there was a home?” to “There is a home!” (423) 518-3760 ext. 636 | Meagan.Haasbroek@isaiah117house.com Lauren.Schaefer@isaiah117house.com | @isaiah117housedallascotx on Facebook and Instagram | linktr.ee/Isaiah117houseDallasCoTX

THE OF THE STAR

We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him.

— Matthew 2:2

BY DAVID DANIELS

It is estimated that there are 100 billion stars in our galaxy and 100 billion galaxies in the universe. Proxima Centauri, the nearest star to earth, is 4.243 light-years or almost 25 trillion miles away. Sirius, the brightest star seen from earth, is twice the size of our sun. If you observe Sirius in the night sky, the light you see left the glowing sphere eight and a half years ago. Such majesty. So many stars. So much brilliance. One made all the difference in the world.

The baby announcement for Jesus wasn’t delivered in the mail but displayed in the heavens. Matthew writes, “After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, ‘Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him’” (Matthew 2:1-2). Persian astrologers noticed a cosmic phenomenon wooing them west to Jerusalem and then south to the manger. This celestial compass was God’s way of inviting, not just a few foreigners, but the whole world to meet His Son.

The wonder of the Bethlehem star is that it proves God’s enduring commitment to reveal Himself and His plans to the world.

Skeptics argue that God never provides sufficient proof of His existence. He leaves people grasping in the dark, having to rely on blind faith to believe. In

The Jesus I Never Knew, even Christian author Phillip Yancey admits,

“My faith suffers from too much freedom, too many temptations to disbelieve. At times I want God to overwhelm me, to overcome my doubts with certainty, to give final proofs of his existence and his concern. I want a God without ambiguity, One to whom I can point for the sake of my doubting friends.”

When I was a child, I sat in my bedroom staring at a glass of water on my desk. “God, make the glass move,” I dared. It’s not that I didn’t believe, I just felt like the man who confessed to Jesus, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” (Mark 9:24). If God would just move the glass a half-inch, that would be enough to cinch my faith.

Fortunately, God does provide many signs—revelation to point to who He is, His Son and His work in the world. First, God reveals Himself in the SKY. Contemporary astronomers have debated whether the star at Christmas was actually a star at all. Some have speculated that it was a supernova; a comet; or the conjunction of Jupiter, Venus and Mars. Whatever it was, it was visible to all.

Psalm 19:1 tells us, “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.” The fingerprints of God are all over creation. Paul writes that, from the beginning, God has been showing Himself through what has been made (Romans 1:20). The majesty of stars scattered across the sky, the breathtaking awe standing atop the Continental Divide,

the thunderous power of Niagara Falls, the exquisite beauty of the Gossamer butterfly—all of this reveal something about our God.

Second, God reveals Himself in SCRIPTURE. For the Magi, the star made them curious, but the ancient Scriptures confirmed the truth, giving them specific directions (see Matthew 3:5-6). The Bible is a remarkable document—written by 40 authors, on three continents, over 1500 years, in three languages—yet consistent and accurate in everything it records. God has given people a living and lasting record of truth so that we may know Him and the way of truth.

Third, God reveals Himself in His SON. The Bible is the written Word of God and Jesus is the living Word of God (John 1:1). When a disciple asked, “Show us the Father,” Jesus replied, “Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father” (John 14:8-9). The writer of Hebrews explains, “in the past” God revealed Him- self through prophets at many times and in various ways, but in recent times He has revealed Himself through His Son, who is God on earth (Hebrews 1:1-3). When God wanted to show Him-self, He sent Jesus. Finally, God reveals Himself through His SPIRIT. When we place our faith in Jesus, He puts His Spirit in us to reveal more and more of Himself. Jesus said, “But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you” (John 14:26).

These are not the only ways that God reveals Himself. But what we can see is that He does wish to make Himself known generally, scripturally, personally, and spiritually. And those who see the signs and follow them in faith are sure to discover the joy of Jesus. The chorus of “We Three Kings” confirms the blessing of trusting God’s signs:

Oh, star of wonder, star of night Star with royal beauty bright Westward leading, still proceeding Guide us to thy perfect light!

Most people missed the celestial announcement of Jesus, though it was in plain sight for all to see. Don’t miss God revealing Himself to you today. Sometimes, asking the simple questions, “Who are You, Lord?” and “What do You want me to do?” is enough to open our eyes and ears and heart to something new. Open your Bible to a place where the pages may still be stuck together and read a fresh word. Pray about something other than the usual grocery list of requests and see how God might open your heart to something that’s on His heart. Look around you and let the created order teach you about the marvelous Creator. Close your eyes and open your ears. If the Spirit of God lives in you, He will speak and show you what is true. God promises, “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart” (Jeremiah 29:13) and, when He does, you need only to follow the star.

“The Wonder Of the Star” is an excerpt from Wonder: Advent Meditations On The Miracle of Christmas–a 31-day devotional released this month by David Daniels.

David is Lead Pastor of Central Bible Church in Fort Worth. He can be reached at wearecentral.org

Wonder is available on Amazon.com

Connections Wellness Group

Start Your Journey to Recovery and Wellness Today

BY ANNETTE BROOKS

If you or a loved one has substance abuse issues, suffers from mental illness, or both, and are wondering where to turn, award-winning Connections Wellness Group (CWG) is here to help. They offer life-enhancing, personalized, cost-effective solutions conveniently close to home for adults ages 18 and up.

Integrated Treatment Model, Dynamic Team of Psychiatrists, Counselors, and Therapists

Serving North Texas since 2018, Connections Wellness Group has expanded its locations and continues to add offices to meet the growing demand for its community-based services. Their holistic approach doesn’t limit care to either substance abuse or mental health. Instead, they treat co-occurring conditions for optimal wellness. “We typically treat both because when there is substance abuse, there

are underlying mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and trauma,” says Group Executive Director Anna Arwine, LPC. Ms. Arwine has been in the mental health industry for seven years in various settings and oversees all CWG’s Tarrant County expansions. Executive Director at the new Southlake location, Yancey Grimes, LPC, adds, “We provide mental health and substance use treatment

to those in the community by identifying the need, developing programming, and doing our part to eliminate the stigma and barriers associated with the vital work we do.” Mr. Grimes has been in the field for 10 years and in recovery for 15.

His approach is personal and passionate, drawing from life experience as well as extensive education. “Our programs include intensive therapy and medication management,” says Clinical Director at Connections Wellness Group Arlington Shara Cherepes, LPC. She adds, “Everyone seeking treatment completes a screening that enables us to evaluate their current mental health and substance abuse and identify the type of care needed. We also evaluate their need for specialty group therapy.”

Partial Hospitalization and Intensive Outpatient Programs

The highest level of care offered at CWG is the partial hospitalization program (PHP). Every patient receives two hours a day of psychoeducation on different topics affecting their mental health and skill-building groups covering coping, nutrition/dietary needs, medication education and compliance, mindfulness, and meditation. PHP patients also receive two more hours of daily process therapy where they analyze and process the stressors within their life that affect their functioning,

as well as intensive medication management. They see their psychiatrist twice weekly, who manages and makes necessary adjustments, as well as a nurse who checks their physical well-being.

“PHP is a place to start,” says Ms. Arwine. “Some clients need a little more help in the beginning, so this program includes 20 hours of onsite treatment. It’s similar to the intensive services patients get in a hospital, but they are able to go home.”

Some clients need a little more help in the beginning, so this program includes 20 hours of onsite treatment. It’s similar to the intensive services patients get in a hospital, but they are able to go home.”

Weekly family engagement sessions address how progress is going at home, what issues are surfacing for the patient in their group therapy sessions, and how the family can support the patient from home. “Sometimes family members can unwittingly be a trigger,” says Ms. Cherepes. “Coaching family members aids in providing the best support for a patient’s ongoing care.”

Intensive outpatient programming (IOP) includes the same therapies, skill-building, education, family involvement, and medication management as the PHP. The difference is IOP patients see their psychiatrist once a week and are physically at the clinic for nine to 15 hours weekly.

“This level of care is a gradual step down in the intensity of services patients receive with PHP, and indicates that progress is being made,” Mr. Grimes explains.

Eventually, after successful IOP, patients are recommended to visit their therapist one to four times a month and have monthly appointments for medication management. At this point, treatment has moved to the maintenance phase.

“We literally bridge the gap patients may experience when leaving the IOP, and this is the main reason for our Tarrant County expansion,” Ms. Ar wine says. “When a patient calls us, they don’t have to wait to see a therapist or psychiatrist to get the help they need. There is no more searching for the right treatment — we provide it all, and conveniently right in their community.”

HELP IS HERE TODAY

Treatment at Connections Wellness Group can begin the moment you call or visit seeking treatment. The practice is in-network with all major insurance companies and Tricare and has existing offices or locations soon to open in Arlington, Southlake, Denton, Frisco, McKinney, Flower Mound, Keller, Plano, and Prosper. Licensed mental health professionals run all locations. Visit ConnectionsWellnessGroup. com for more information.

4907 South Collins Street, Suite 121 Arlington, Texas 76018 (817) 900-0453

1100 East Southlake Boulevard, Suite 200 Southlake, Texas 76092 (817) 756-1293

4907 South Collins Street, Suite 121, Arlington, Texas 76018 | (817) 900-0453

1100 East Southlake Boulevard, Suite 200 Southlake, Texas 76092 | (817) 756-1293

ConnectionsWellnessGroup.com

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GREAT HEARTS ARLINGTON

Cultivating the Hearts and Minds of Students in the Pursuit of Truth, Goodness, and Beauty

BY MEREDITH KNIGHT

Great Hearts Schools were founded on a simple principle, the idea that every student can learn and grow and should be provided with the best and richest of our Western heritage. The first Great Hearts school was established by a group of parents and scholars who sought to create a rich and diverse environment in which to develop lifelong learners. In that environment, they emphasized:

Foundational skills of thinking and learning

The search for objective truth

Moral formation

Development of aesthetic sensibility

The very best in college preparation without the cost of tuition

Great Hearts scholars are not taught what to think. They are taught how to think. “We believe everything we come in contact with is morally forming—from the books we read, to the relationships and conversations we have, and the art and music we encounter, everything draws us toward virtue or vice,” said Headmaster Andrew Duininck. “At Great Hearts Arlington, we’re intentional about putting the best of Western tradition in front of our scholars to shape and form the whole child and help them develop virtue. We prioritize math and language acquisition through number sense and phonemic awareness. We also focus on the art and craft of conversation and active participation through the Socratic method.”

Great Hearts Arlington is not a school for the elite but a school for all. In fact, there is no tuition. “Every young person should have the opportunity to step into our community and join in this learning journey,” Duininck said. “It does take a good deal of work and parental support as it is structured and rigorous, but we hold our students accountable to high expectations while supporting them in reaching those expectations.”

The Great Hearts philosophy is that a classical, liberal arts education is for all children, regardless of academic, ethnic, or religious backgrounds. Instead of teaching subjects in isolation, Great Hearts Arlington teaches their scholars how each of those subjects fit into the world they occupy. “We focus on what is common to us as human beings and strive to create learners who seek after what is true, do what is good, and discern what is beautiful. Students build relationships with their peers outside of the classroom, contribute to their school community, and develop healthy habits and virtues like friendship, citizenship, and humility.”

Great Hearts graduates go on to attend many of the most prestigious universities in the nation with seven out of ten graduates earning a merit-based scholarship. Great Hearts Academies consistently surpass the best public and private schools in the nation in both academic outcomes and moral formation. “We seek to prepare all our scholars for acceptance into their first-choice university,” Duininck said. Find out more and schedule a school tour at www.GreatHeartsArlington.org.

ACCENT PODIATRY ASSOCIATES

The doctors at Accent Podiatry Associates have a message for you. You don’t have to live with foot pain. If you measure the quality of each day by how much your feet and ankles did or didn’t hurt, they want you to know it doesn’t have to be that way. The human ankle and foot complex contains 26 bones, 33 joints and over 100 muscles, tendons and ligaments. That’s about a quarter of the bones in your body. When they’re working and pain-free, it’s easy to forget about them. But when conditions such as plantar fasciitis, neuromas, hammertoes, bunions, flat feet, heel spurs, or Achilles tendonitis begin causing pain and discomfort, it’s hard to keep your mind on anything else.

TREAT THE PROBLEM NOT THE PAIN

Drs. Dharmesh Bhakta, Shae Paschal, Jacob Jasper, Parth Bhakta and Steve Silvey at Accent Podiatry Associates have dedicated their careers to understanding the intricate working of the amazing machine we call the human foot and ankle. They spend their days looking for and treating the root cause of these and other foot or ankle problems—not merely masking symptom but finding and addressing the source of your pain or dysfunction.

ALL UNDER ONE ROOF

Daily pain isn’t just a symptom of aging. Accent Podiatry Associates is a one-stop-shop for all things foot and ankle. They can handle anything from simple fungal nails to complex foot surgery always placing an emphasis on patient education, concisely presenting all options to their patients then partnering with them to pursue the least invasive treatment first—only progressing to surgery, when all conservative options have been explored.

Podiatry Associates is a one-stop-shop for all things foot and ankle. They can handle anything from simple fungal nails to complex foot surgery always placing an emphasis on patient education, concisely presenting all options to their patients then partnering with them to pursue the least invasive treatment first—only progressing to surgery, when all conservative options have been explored.

THERE FOR YOUR

The doctors and staff of Accent Podiatry realize your life is as hectic as theirs is. That’s why they’re committed to making their practice and care as convenient and accessible as possible, respecting appointment times, and making themselves available, when their patients need them. On their website at AccentPodiatry. com they provide educational videos on topics such as Total Ankle Reconstruction, Triple Nerve Decompression for chronic foot pain, and possible causes of chronic burning feet.

SMALL-TOWN CARE WITH HIGH-TECH TREATMENT

Accent Podiatry is more than just a healthcare practice. It’s a group of individuals who collectively make up a close family that’s involved in the care and wellbeing of their patients, neighbors, and friends. The Accent Podiatry offices are fun places to visit, with doctors and staff always laughing and joking around. It’s easy to have that attitude, when you’re doing the work you love.

If you’re experiencing problems with your feet or ankles, it’s not just a biproduct of aging or a nuance to learn to live with. Let the professionals at Accent Podiatry help you find the root cause of your foot/ankle problems and regain your active, pain-free live again. They accept most insurance plans and welcome new patients.

ACCENT ON YOU PLASTIC SURGERY AND MEDI SPA

Y Anthony Nakamura, MD, FACS, P A

WRITTEN BY MEREDITH KNIGHT

If you’re considering plastic surgery, you want to trust your procedure to an experienced, accredited, and board-certified plastic surgeon with thousands of successful plastic surgeries to his credit. If you live in the Arlington/Mansfield area, you’re in luck. Dr. Y. Anthony Nakamura has over 30 years of experience, an impeccable reputation, and a bedside manner than will put you at ease. As a recognized plastic surgery and body contouring expert, he’s provided excellent care with a personal approach to thousands of men and women seeking to make changes to their body or breasts. Board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Dr. Nakamura is affiliated with the American Medical Association, American Society of Plastic Surgeons, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, and Texas Medical Association and is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons.

CHANGE YOUR LOOK— CHANGE YOUR LIFE

So, what are your aesthetic goals? Do you dream of making subtle changes? Or are you ready for a dramatic transformation? Patients travel to Dr. Nakamura from around the state—and beyond—bringing their aesthetic goals to Accent on You Plastic Surgery and Medi Spa. Once there, they enjoy a highlypersonalized approach and comprehensive range of services. From life-changing

cosmetic procedures to innovative aesthetic treatments, the Accent on You team tailors care to meet each patient’s cosmetic needs and wishes, always keeping the accent where it belongs—on YOU.

HIGHLY PERSONALIZED CARE

Accent on You Cosmetic Surgery Center is fully-accredited by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities. Dr. Nakamura takes his time, getting to know each patient, their lifestyle, their concerns, and their objectives. Together with his seasoned staff, he walks each patient through treatment options, including likely outcomes and any potential risks or complications of surgery, encouraging patients to take their time and carefully consider their options, so they know the decisions they make are the right ones for them.

Y ANTHONY NAKAMURA

With over 30 years’ experience, boardcertified plastic surgeon and esteemed cosmetic enhancement expert, Dr. Nakamura believes in providing natural-looking results for his patients, understanding that the best results come from fully-informed decisions and an open, comfortable surgeon/patient relationship. Whether you’re interested in breast augmentation, a tummy tuck, or a complete mommy makeover, Dr. Nakamura

With over 30 years’ experience, board-certified plastic surgeon and esteemed cosmetic enhancement expert, Dr. Nakamura believes in providing natural-looking results for his patients, understanding that the best results come from fully-informed decisions and an open, comfortable surgeon/patient relationship.

can help you achieve the outcome of your dreams with a procedure tailored just for you.

HIGHLY QUALIFIED AND EXPERIENCED

Dr. Nakamura completed med school at University of Texas Medical Branch, his internship and residency training at LSU School of Medicine, Charity Hospital New Orleans and residency training in plastic surgery at UTMB Galveston. Dr. Nakamura and his dynamic team are now accepting new patients at Accent on You Plastic Surgery and Medi Spa. Find out more and schedule an initial consultation to discuss your personal aesthetic goals at AccentOnYou.com.

BEST PLASTIC SURGEON

MANSFIELD FAMILY DENTISTRY

WRITTEN BY MEREDITH KNIGHT

When given the chance to select the best family dental practice in the Mansfield area, Living Magazine readers were quick to respond—Mansfield Family Dentistry. After all, this family-owned and operated practice has been the dental home for generations of Mansfield residents for more than 40 years. The father and son dental team of Drs. John and Cody Bauer are joined by wife/mom Terri who keeps the office running smoothly and fosters the homey vibe patients have come to love.

YOUR DENTAL HOME

Care at Mansfield Family Dentistry begins as soon as a child is ready to sit in the chair for routine cleaning. From there, the Bauer family is happy to provide Mansfield families with everything they need for healthy teeth and optimum oral health throughout their lives. For the past four decades, Mansfield Family Dentistry has been there for everything from a simple cleaning or filling to cosmetic procedures—including teeth straightening and full-mouth makeovers—delivered with integrity and compassion from a family Mansfield has learned to trust. And now children Dr. John treated, while they were growing up, are bringing their own children to him and Dr. Cody.

ONE-STOP-SHOP

The Drs. Bauer are committed to providing their family of patients everything they need under one roof, where they’re already comfortable. “When we realize, during a routine check-up, for instance, that a patient needs a root canal, tooth extraction, or dental implant or when they inquire about a cosmetic procedure, the last thing they want is to be referred out to a strange dental practice,” Dr. John said. “We’re happy to offer everything they need

The Bauer family realizes the importance of educating their patients, so they can be their own best oral health advocates. It’s not just about the health of their teeth but their overall health. “More and more is being discovered about the affect your oral health has on the rest of your body and on your chances of developing conditions such as heart disease, osteoporosis, Alzheimer’s, and diabetes.

at their dental home, including cosmetic procedures such as tooth whitening, porcelain veneers, inlays, onlays, and Invisalign clear braces, for healthy teeth and a gorgeous smile.”

EDUCATION AND EMPOWERMENT

The Bauer family realizes the importance of educating their patients, so they can be their own best oral health advocates. It’s not just about the health of their teeth but their overall health. “More and more is being discovered about the affect your oral health has on the rest of your body and on your chances of developing conditions such as heart disease, osteoporosis, Alzheimer’s, and diabetes,” Dr. Cody said. “It’s our job to provide each patient with the tools they need for a lifetime of vibrant oral health then partnering with them on that journey.”

FROM THEIR FAMILY TO YOURS

Family is the most important thing for us,” Dr. John said. “Cody, Terri, and I along with our dynamic team want every patient who comes through our door to feel like a member of the family. There’s nothing more rewarding to us than building relationships with our patients and being able to watch them grow, from before they lose their baby teeth to that day when they bring their own kids to see us.”

If you’re searching for a family dental office, find out more at MansfieldDentistry.com.

Our longevity in this industry and continuous growth is a product of our commitment to our customers and our passion for the business”, Brett said. We enjoy what we do and go to great lengths to ensure each job is done to the best of our ability. We want to exceed our customers’ expectations.

JOE HALL ROOFING, INC.

Joe Hall Roofing, Inc. opened its doors over 30 years ago with an intent to serve customers with a level of integrity, uncompromising customer service, and quality craftsmanship that still rings true today. Servicing both residential and commercial roofing (as well as commercial general contracting) has helped to develop strong relationships with great clients over the years. Second-generation owners, Brett and Tina Hall, who were joined in the business this year by their son, Jackson, pride themselves on having built lifelong customers and attribute their success to a solid, dedicated team of employees who are committed to every project they undertake. They believe the family-like atmosphere at their office has kept turnover low – over half of the employees have been with them for over ten years and several for over twenty.

“Our longevity in this industry and continuous growth is a product of our commitment to our customers and our passion for the business”, Brett said. “We enjoy what we do and go to great lengths to ensure each job is done to the best of our ability. We want to exceed our customers’ expectations.”

The team has earned a 5-star reputation with the Better Business Bureau, voted 2021 Neighborhood Favorite in 17 neighborhoods on NextDoor, accredited member of The Good Contractor’s List for 10 years, and is

proud to be Living Magazine’s “Best of” in the roofing category for the second year in a row.

A few highlights of reviews are, “wonderful job in one only one day”, “my salesman was professional from the moment he arrived and throughout the process”, “my entire experience with Joe Hall Roofing renewed my belief that there are good contractors out there”, and “there are few honest companies around these days, and Joe Hall Roofing is the most honest company in the DFW area”. Another raving customer says “Three words describe them – Professionalism, Integrity and Quality!! You can try but you won’t do better than these guys and this company.” There are innumerable reviews like these to read on both Google and NextDoor.

The team is committed to community service, both corporately and personally, serving on numerous boards and committees of local organizations and school-related service. Some of their favorite projects this year were the Arlington Heroes Run (sponsored by Joe Hall Roofing, led by volunteer director, Heather Kipker, COO of Joe Hall Roofing, and several employees and their families participated in the run). This fall they partnered with 6 Stones, a local philanthropic organization, to donate a roof as well as working as a team on site to help make necessary home repairs for a struggling

homeowner during the organization’s “Community Powered Revitalization”.

As the motto the entire staff at Joe Hall Roofing created together states – “There for you in the past, here for you today, serving you in the future”. Based in the Arlington area for five generations, you can count on the Hall family and their team to be a reliable resource for all your roofing needs.

MANSFIELD CUSTOM HOMES

WRITTEN BY MEREDITH KNIGHT

If you’re considering having a custom home built for your family, you may be dreading the inevitable stress that comes with the project. Well, Hayden Dalley and his team at Mansfield Custom Homes want you to know it doesn’t have to be that way. In fact, many of their clients will testify that the home building process came with a minimum of stress—it was even fun!

That’s only one thing that sets this family-owned and operated business apart. Another is the “spirit of excellence” that permeates everything they do. “My dad, Stoney Short, started the company when a family friend was ready to build a custom home and said he wouldn’t trust anyone else to be his builder,” Hayden said. “I came on board, after being in the real estate industry for a few years, to grow the business. I’ve always admired my dad’s attention to detail and integrity so I wanted to learn from the best.”

From his first day with the company, Hayden’s been keenly aware of his responsibility to maintain the best practices for which his father has become known. “A spirit of excellence is our mantra and a core principle of our company culture,” he said. “From the cleanliness of a jobsite to the quality of our product, everything is completed with a spirit of excellence, just the way my dad did it.”

It’s no wonder Mansfield Custom Homes has racked up so many awards, from Best Builder every year since 2014, to “Top 100 Leaders in Real Estate and Construction” in 2021 and “Best of Houzz” for 2019 and 2020. And the internet is teaming with positive reviews from satisfied homeowners.

We believe building your dream home should be fun,” Hayden said. “Our transparency and focus on the customer experience make that belief a reality for our clients. Our mission is to provide unparalleled quality and service to our clients through a spirit of excellence during every phase of their building experience.

HAPPY CUSTOMERS

Here’s just one. “With a custom home, we were able to have every detail the way we wanted it, and we were involved in every design decision. Yet, they also helped us prevent decisions we’d regret later. Everyone who saw our home during the construction process praised the cleanliness, which was very helpful as we visited the site. We’re very happy with the final result and would highly recommend using Mansfield Custom Homes.”

MEET YOUR NEXT BUILDER

Raised all over the DFW Metroplex, Hayden spent the bulk of his childhood in Mansfield. “I have a beautiful wife and three beautiful kiddos, loyal employees, a job I love, and wonderful clients. What more could I ask?” he said. “We love raising our kids in the country. We’ve been members of Living Church for seven years. Between MCH and spending time with my family, I stay pretty busy. In my free time I love to golf, hunt, and fish.”

“We believe building your dream home should be fun,” Hayden said. “Our transparency and focus on the customer experience make that belief a reality for our clients. Our mission is to provide unparalleled quality and service to our clients through a spirit of excellence during every phase of their building experience.”

In 1978, Australian surfer Brian Smith designed a product unlike any other from his favorite material, and the UGG Classic Boot was born. By the mid-80s, UGG gained momentum through surf shops from San Diego to Santa Cruz, and since then, the brand has expanded beyond its original boots to designer footwear, apparel, accessories, and homewares with an uncompromising attitude toward creativity, quality, and craftsmanship.

MEDICAL records

A HISTORY LESSON WORTH LEARNING

BY PETE ALFANO

ave you ever sat in a doctor’s office before the first visit or in front of a computer at home documenting your family health history and thought, “This would go a lot faster if I just included the diseases we didn’t have?”

It may take up a lot of your time, but a record of your family history provides medical professionals with the background information they use to help you avoid the genetic road map you may be unwittingly following, thus reducing your risk of life-threatening diseases. Suppose

your primary care physician advises you to adopt a lifestyle that would give you the best possible chance of avoiding the heart attack, diabetes, and cancer prevalent on your family tree. Why take a chance even if the diseases could be explained away because these relatives smoked a pack of cigarettes a day, were sedentary, or had poor eating habits?

Conversely, just because there may be little or no family history of serious disease, that doesn’t mean you can feast on fried food seven days a week. Exercise, good nutrition, and avoiding tobacco are still the keys to a healthy lifestyle.

There’s also a growing awareness that lifethreatening disorders are not as gender specific as once assumed. Women can have heart attacks, for example, even if the symptoms are different. Although rare, men can develop breast cancer, especially if more than one female in their immediate family has it. You wouldn’t know it from TV commercials, but osteoporosis can afflict men, not just women. You should give your doctors as much information as possible.

Ideally, family history will include at least three generations. That can be problematic because great grandparents, grandparents, uncles, and aunts may be deceased. Often, however, surviving relatives can fill in the blanks on medical conditions in your family. Among these conditions are high

blood pressure, asthma, anemia, diabetes, stroke, clinical depression, and dementia.

For example, let’s say a patient’s father, grandfather, and uncle all had colon cancer. That would make it imperative that the patient be screened for colon cancer well before turning 45. If a patient’s mom, sister, and grandmother had breast cancer, then earlier breast cancer screening is a must at an early age.

Other factors play a part in knowing your family history. Is there longevity in your family? How old were relatives and family members when they were first diagnosed with a disease?

Race and ethnicity are also part of the equation. For example, Heart.org reports that 40% of African Americans have high blood pressure (hypertension), which often presents at an early age. Since hypertension can be a silent killer with no obvious symptoms, it is important to know how prevalent it is on your family tree. That is also true for sickle cell disease and thalassemia, blood disorders with a strong genetic link.

Knowing your family history doesn’t guarantee you will avoid any major medical conditions but being aware they exist will enable you to make lifestyle choices to lower the risk. Coupled with an annual physical examination and early screening for diseases such as breast and colon cancer, you could add years to your life.

Risk and Reward of Knowing Your Family History

Assessing your risk for certain diseases will help your doctor help you avoid or minimize your risk. According to MayoClinic.org, your doctor can :

• Recommend changes in diet or other lifestyle habits

• Ask about medications or treatments to reduce the risk of disease

• Decide which diagnostic tests to order and how often to screen

• Determine whether you or family members should get a specific genetic test

• Identify a condition that might not otherwise be considered

• Identify other family members who are at risk of developing a particular disease

• Assess your risk of passing conditions on to your children

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PARENTAL advice

CARING FOR AGING LOVED ONES – A BASIC GUIDE

BY DAVID BUICE

ole reversal is one of the most common effects of aging. As the years pass and age takes its toll, parents often become increasingly dependent, and their children find they’re now the caretakers, nurturing and protecting those who once nurtured and protected them. This transition can be difficult for all involved. The key is finding a compromise that is both economically and emotionally doable for your parents, you and your spouse, and any of your children who may still be living at home.

The following guide can help you in considering some common options.

INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY

This option is best suited for active, independent 55+ seniors who will rent or buy a home, apartment, or mobile home in a community with other seniors. This option can be quite expensive, however. According to the AARP, rent for an independent living unit can run from $3,000 to $6,000 a month.

IN-HOME CARE

Many older people are not interested in going into a nursing home or another facility and prefer to remain in their own home amidst familiar surroundings. While attractive to them, aging in place may require the assistance of a home health aide for help with medications, personal hygiene, and proper diet. The cost of a home health aide averages between $20 to $30 per hour, and yearly expenses can be in excess of $20,000. In Texas, Medicaid may provide assistance for home health care when a patient needs skilled nursing care and qualifies financially.

ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY

These are residential facilities where older people can live mostly on their own while benefitting from personal care assistance if needed. Things like taking medicine, bathing, and getting dressed are services often provided by assisted living facilities. Currently, the cost of assisted living in Texas averages about $3,988 a month, slightly under the national average of $4,300 monthly.

Government Benefits

In exploring elder care options, a helpful source is Benefits. gov, the U.S. government website providing information on over 1,000 benefit and assistance programs.

NURSING HOME

This option is best for seniors requiring an environment with caregiving and medical assistance outside the confines of a hospital. Ideally, the nursing staff will be on duty around the clock to help with care as needed. In Texas, the average daily cost of a semi-private room is around $140, though higher in the DFW area, where the average is $260 a day. Fortunately, Medicaid pays for the care of approximately seven of every 10 nursing home patients. And with certain restrictions, Medicare will provide assistance after a hospital stay.

LIVING WITH FAMILY MEMBERS

It isn’t uncommon for an older relative to move in with family members who can provide companionship, support with daily activities, and non-skilled health care. The downside of this situation is that it can be very stressful to care for an aging parent while holding down a full-time job and taking care of your children. In that situation, hiring in-home help is strongly advised.

DON’T

LET CELLULITE

dicatate what you wear

BY DR. ANNA TOKER

f you scrutinize your reflection in the mirror and cringe at the sight of rimples and dimples of cellulite on your butt, thighs, and elsewhere, know you’re not alone. Ninety percent of women have cellulite. And most of us hate it! If you wouldn’t dream of wearing light-colored yoga pants (Black, anyone?) and those cute cut-off shorts that look great on all your friends are not even a consideration, chances are cellulite is the issue. If only there were a targeted, non-invasive treatment to smooth and tighten that dreaded dimply skin.

Well, there is! In fact, those girls strutting light-gray yoga pants at the gym and Daisy Dukes around town may already know about it. If you’re been diligent about working out, hoping it will eliminate cellulite, sorry, it just doesn’t work that way. If you’ve tried cellulite creams, needling, and massage and been woefully disappointed, let me cut to the chase and introduce you to EMTONE, the first and currently only device that simultaneously delivers thermal and mechanical energy to treat the root causes of cellulite.

What are those? Basically, increased cumulative sun damage, body fat, skin laxity, and loss of integrity and thickness of the skin, as we age, all lead to what we call cellulite. That’s why Emtone addresses all those things at once.

Women are finding Emtone treatment to be:

64% more effective than stand-alone treatment for building elastin

59% more effective than stand-alone treatment for building collagen

50% faster than stand-alone therapies

With a 90% patient satisfaction rate

“During your first visit for the Emtone treatment, I design an individual treatment plan specifically for you. Most of my patients undergo four treatments, scheduled once or twice a week typically taking 20 minutes, depending on the treated area. Afterwards, you’re free to return to your normal activities.”

What are women saying about the treatment? “It feels similar to having a hot-stone massage with a good bit of vibration added in,” said one patient. “The treatment was performed while I was lying down and comfortable. It was a pleasant experience. My skin was tighter and smoother immediately afterward and continued to improve, over the next few months.”

If you’re tired of avoiding certain clothes because you’re worried about the appearance of cellulite, there’s finally a solution that’s quick, non-invasive, and can be targeted to the areas where you need it. It’s about time!

ADULT ACNE: causes and cures

A

PATH TO CLEAR SKIN AT ANY AGE

BY MIMI GREENWOOD KNIGHT

cne was bad enough in your teens and 20s. In your 30s, 40s — or even 50s — it’s downright embarrassing. Additionally frustrating, treatments which helped in your teen years often don’t work on adult acne. The reasons for later-life zits are many, including:

Fluctuating hormones due to menstruation, pregnancy, menopause, or cessation of birth-control

Stress that causes our bodies to produce more androgens and stimulates oil glands

Genetic disposition

Hair and skincare products that clog pores

Medication

Undiagnosed medical condition (such as polycystic ovary syndrome)

Pollution in the environment

Overwashing your face (more than twice a day)

A combination of these

But it’s not all bad news. According to the American Dermatological Association, there are ways to combat adult acne and an experienced dermatologist can consult with you about which treatment — or combination of treatments — can help you have clear skin again.

TOPICAL TREATMENTS

While not every topical product or ingredient works for everyone and even the right product may take weeks to achieve noticeable improvement, talk to your dermatologist about the efficacy of compounds such as salicylic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, polyhydroxy acids, benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, retinoids, or azelaic acid. Each one addresses acne a bit differently, so it’s important to work with an expert who can diagnose the root cause of your problem and work with you to determine the best treatment options.

EXFOLIATORS

A chemical or physical exfoliant can help prevent breakouts by removing clogs from your pores then working to keep them clear. But be warned. Exfoliating too often can leave your skin irritated, flaky, and dry. One to three times a week is plenty for most people.

SPOT TREATMENT

Spot treating with a product containing benzoyl peroxide can kill the germs that cause acne and help you zap a

READ THE LABEL

If you suffer from adult acne, always look for moisturizer, cleanser, sunscreen, and other skin and hair care products that advertise:

Non-comedogenic

Non-acnegenic

Oil-free

Water-based Won’t clog pores

single zit fairly quickly. But be careful. It can be harsh on sensitive skin.

PRODUCTS THAT FIGHT INFLAMMATION

Pimples form when a pore is clogged with dirt, oil, or dead skin then often worsen as bacteria in the irritated area multiplies. In conjunction with other acne treatments, products containing colloidal oatmeal, aloe, or Centella Asiatica can help calm inflamed areas.

ORAL MEDICATIONS

If your acne is beyond anything topical treatments can cure, talk to your dermatologist about prescription meds such as oral contraceptives, spironolactone, or isotretinoin. Once your dermatologist has determined the cause of your acne, they’ll better know what RX can help.

CORTISONE INJECTIONS

If you’re suffering from painful cystic acne lesions (the kind likely to leave scarring), ask your dermatologist whether a cortisone shot might not be in order. In the meantime, know you’re not the only adult still dealing with zits. With the help of an experienced dermatologist and a little effort and patience on your part, you can absolutely look forward to clear skin again.

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HELPING YOUR hearth

FIREPLACE CARE, UPDATES, AND TECHNOLOGY

BY CHERYL ALEXANDER

fireplace is a beautiful and cozy addition to any space and can create an attractive centerpiece to a room or a stunning division between areas. New trends focus on both beauty and function.

FRAMELESS

Frameless Fireplaces are among the decade’s hottest trends. This seamless style can be surrounded by marble, tile, stone or designed as a classic single-sided piece or a see-through tunnel. It can also be built flush with the wall sans mantel.

CONVERTIBLE

Sometimes, deciding whether you want wood or gas, open or closed viewing is the toughest choice when selecting a fireplace. New technology allows for converting, giving you the best of all worlds.

THREE-SIDED

The three-sided corner unit, or peninsula, has a clean, modern look. It offers views from every angle, adds warmth and coziness without sacrificing space, and installation is simple.

INDOOR/OUTDOOR DOUBLE-SIDED

This style of fireplace is a hit year-round. A beautiful summer night outside on the deck or a cozy winter evening on the couch — enjoy both with a fire. Indoor/ Outdoor styles are widely varied. You can have rustic, clean and modern, or anything in between. Many styles offer the option to convert between open and sealed fires.

TALL, VERTICAL

Combining linear and extra-large, tall, vertical fireplaces are trending. And by tall, we mean tall, whether it’s the size of the flame height or bold and dramatic floor-to-ceiling features. This is one of the most interesting and distinctive trends and works best in a modern space with high ceilings.

FOUR-SIDED

GLASS

The see-through (four-sided glass) design is another sophisticated, contemporary trend. The see-through option is the perfect choice for the minimalist. It makes a statement without being big and flashy — its simplicity says everything.

SMART REMOTES

With programmable remotes and thermostats, gas fireplace remotes are smarter than ever, allowing you to maintain a consistent temperature or set your fireplace to turn on or off at specific times. The remote now also acts as a portable thermostat. If you have set the fire to a specific temperature, it will maintain the temperature based on where you and the remote are sitting. If you move, the fireplace will automatically adjust to ensure the ambient temperature matches the preset.

FLEXIBILITY

Nowadays, multiple products allow combustible materials to be placed directly above and surrounding the fire. Formerly fireplaces required surrounds that were heat resistant, such as brick, stone, or tile. New technology transfers heat away from the wall and into the home. You can apply any finishes — even wood and wallpaper — to the very edge of the gas fireplace and even mount your art or your TV directly above it.

CONTROLLABLE HEAT

Since today’s new homes are more tightly sealed and well-insulated, the need for heat is reduced. A fireplace with controllable heat options allows you to use your fireplace to heat your home and lets you lower the fireplace’s heat output, creating a romantic, cozy ambiance year-round.

Fireplace Safety

Use a fireplace for a short-duration fire — no longer than five hours.

Keep the screen closed to prevent sparks from jumping onto the carpet.

Never leave a fire unattended.

Open a window just a bit when using the fireplace to pre vent the room from becoming smoky.

Before making a fire, open glass, pull aside the screen, and place kindling, newspaper, and logs inside. Make sure the smoke will go up the chimney properly by lighting a match, blowing it out, and watching the smoke go up and out.

Keep a non-flammable rug in front of the fireplace.

Use fireplace tools.

Use a chimney cap.

HOLIDAY inspiration

IDEAS TO GET YOU OUT OF A DECORATING RUT

BY COURTNEY WARREN

s the weather turns a little colder, a magical feeling floats in the air. However, even with the changing seasons, some people feel uninspired with their holiday decor, lamenting that they decorate with the same things each year. If you feel like you are reusing items in repeated tired ways, I am here to help. Allow me to walk you through the next few months with some of my favorite ideas that will hopefully inspire you to get out of a holiday decorating rut. Choose one or all to keep things fresh as you host your friends and family this season.

REPURPOSE YOUR PUMPKINS

Gather dozens of pumpkins and arrange them on the corner of each step of a staircase. Make sure to use a lot of variation in sizes. I like to mix a combination of real and faux to stretch the look and the budget. I incorporated a few bursts of color, but if you prefer simplicity, embrace only the orange.

An entire staircase full of pumpkins will be challenging to walk up, so remember to take this into account when you plan. If you have an extra space outdoors or less frequently used steps, that is ideal.

USE UNCONVENTIONAL COLORS

This fall, explore incorporating a few colors outside the standard harvest color palette. I love pairing orange with teal to spice up the table.

This brightly colored runner is a significant departure from typical harvest golds and reds and gives a bright and festive alternative that I leave up for several weeks.

CHRISTMAS COLLECTIONS

If there was EVER a time made for collecting, it is the holidays! Collections bring in a feeling of nostalgia and meaning. I decided one of the best ways to show off my special decor was to make a wreath for each room. Here are two of my favorite unique wreath themes.

In looking through my ornaments, I realized a theme of small trucks and trailers. Gathering these adorable mini vehicles created the perfect opportunity to showcase this theme. I hot glued them on a green wreath and added berries and bows.

When I saw an adorable Martha Stewart wreath, I knew I needed to recreate it. I made the tiny houses, but this would be a simple DIY by purchasing small Christmas houses and hot gluing them around the wreath. I hang mine on the door or above the mantle for a festive touch.

Celebrating does not have to feel the same every year, nor does it need to look the same. Which of the above ideas can you replicate in your home to shake things up?

ABOUT THE DESIGNER

Courtney Warren is a Rockwall interior designer whose award-winning design work has been featured in numerous national magazines and media and whose clients span the North Texas area.

GATHER FOR SOME FUN THAT THE WHOLE FAMILY CAN ENJOY

othing causes amiable sibling rivalry, friendly competition, and deep belly laughs like family game night. Playing board gameswith the family was one of my favorite traditions as a kid, and we still gather as adults to challenge each other to a round of Trivial Pursuit or something new. It’s the easiest way to break the ice with new friends or get the whole family — yes, aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandparents, too — bonding and smiling at holiday gatherings. Keep reading for a few of our favorites that are family-friendly, easy to figure out, and tons of fun. Plus, the perfect snack to pair with each one.

Trivia Game

Trivia is the best way to show off the random snippets of knowledge you’ve gathered over the years. I Should Have Known That is an entertaining trivia game for players 14 and up, which features random questions that will drive you crazy trying to remember the answers, like which hand the Statue of Liberty holds the torch and how long Sleeping Beauty slept. This game would still be appropriate for kids if they team up with someone older to even the score. Chips and salsa, queso, or guacamole make for a great trivia night snack.

Drawing Game

I love Telestrations , which can accommodate up to eight players of all ages. This game (a drawing version of the old whisper game, Telephone) involves one player drawing a picture, then passing it to the next player, who writes down a phrase describing what they think the drawing is. Then, the next player draws a picture based on what the previous player wrote, and so on. When it gets back to the player who drew the original drawing, they can show the progression to everyone. Players will laugh about how closely (or not) the final guess matches up to what they drew. Pretzels or popcorn are perfect during this entertaining game.

Mystery Game

If you think Clue is fun, just wait until you play Unsolved Case Files: Who Murdered Harmony Ashcroft? Put on your detective hats and dive into this interesting roleplaying game for fans of true crime. You play a detective tasked with solving a decades-old murder and have to find three separate clues to crack open the case. You will investigate more than 50 evidence photos and documents, including newspaper articles, phone records, evidence reports, fingerprint cards, legal documents, witness statements, and suspect interrogations. After you think you’ve solved each clue, you input your information into an online website, which will only let you move on when you get the correct answer. Great for couples, groups, and parties with kids 13 and up. To get in the detective spirit, serve mini donuts, fruit, and coffee or hot chocolate.

Card Game

I have yet to meet someone who doesn’t like Exploding Kittens , a card game for kids at least seven years old. This game has some strategy, but it mostly boils down to chance, giving kids and adults equal opportunities to win or get blown up by an exploding kitten. The game is super simple. The last one standing after everyone else has drawn an exploding kitten wins. All other cards help you avoid or lower your risk of drawing an exploding kitten (like peeking at the next three cards or shuffling the deck). This game moves quickly, so sore losers can try their luck in the next round. Serve this with a board filled with cheese, cucumbers, carrots, crackers, strawberries, grapes, and even candy, like gummy bears and M&Ms.

The top five highest-selling board games (excluding only two-player games) of all time, as reported by Money Inc., include:

1. Monopoly

2. Scrabble

3. Clue

4. Trivial Pursuit

5. Battleship

Grab your favorite version of these classic games (hello, Target Monopoly!) and play with your family today.

ALL ABOARD for family fun

HOLIDAY TRAIN RIDES CAPTURE THE MAGIC OF THE SEASON BY

ANNETTE BROOKS

he holiday season is a magical time, and Texas’ fun-fi lled holiday train rides are a great way to spread cheer and create lifetime memories. We’ve chosen three of the Lone Star State’s most popular Christmas rail excursions for you to consider — the North Pole Flyer in Bertram, The Polar Express in Palestine, the North Pole Express in Grapevine. Be sure to reserve your tickets early. Seats fi ll up quickly.

Plan to have lunch or dinner at one of the local restaurants in these quaint towns. Remember to give yourself extra time to explore all the unique shops and boutiques for one-of-a-kind holiday gifts. There’s something for everyone, even for the person on your gift list who has everything.

THE POLAR EXPRESS

Departs from Palestine, Texas

Dates from November 19, 2021, to December 26, 2021

The Texas State Railroad brings the wonder and excitement of classic children’s Christmas story — The Polar Express — to life. Adapted to the big screen in 2003, the motion picture soundtrack sets the mood on board. Once the train departs the station, adults and kids enjoy hot chocolate and cookies served by dancing Cocoa chefs reciting the book. When the train arrives at the “North Pole,” Santa and his merry elves come aboard to hand out a gift and spread the joy of the season.

All cars have large viewing windows. Seating includes the Dome Class, which has wonderful views from the upper deck dome windows and includes a keepsake cocoa mug. Other options are Presidential Class, First Class, and Coach Class with Pullman-style seating.

Visit TexasStateRailroad.net/polarexpress for more information and to reserve tickets.

Tip: Purchase a gift-wrapped copy of The Polar Express when you make your reservations so children can read along with the narrators during the train ride.

NORTH POLE FLYER

Departs from Bertram, Texas

Dates from November 27, 2021, to December 12, 2021

It’s always a treat to get away to the Texas Hill Country, and Christmastime is no exception. Bertram, located about 10 miles east of Burnet and 45 minutes from Austin, offers an ideal opportunity for adults and children alike to get into the holiday spirit riding the North Pole Flyer.

The two-hour ride aboard the train cars pulled by the Austin Steam Train Association’s stunning blue diesel engine departs from the historic Bertram Depot. Passengers may choose their train car when they reserve tickets, but the North Pole Flyer train team assigns seats within the car.

The excitement mounts as Santa and his elf walk through each car, handing out a special gift and talking briefly with everyone. Passengers will enjoy cookies and hot chocolate, and kids receive a coloring sheet and crayons. Everyone is encouraged to read along to the story of the North Pole Flyer told by the storyteller elf. Copies of the book can be purchased for $10.

Visit AustinSteamTrain.org/special-events/ north-pole-flyer for more information and to reserve tickets.

Tip: Most of the holiday magic occurs in the main lounge area. If you book a Private Compartment ticket, you’ll miss out on the reading of the North Pole Flyer story.

NORTH POLE EXPRESS

Departs from the Cotton Belt Depot in Grapevine

Dates from November 26, 2021, to December 23, 2021

Grapevine Vintage Railroad welcomes everyone to wear their pajamas and board the North Pole Express with Mrs. Claus hosting the 45 to 50-minute ride to bring Santa to the Christmas Capital of Texas. Riders enjoy cookies, Santa’s Frosty Chocolate Snow Milk served in a keepsake mug and a special gift.

Tickets are available for the First-Class Coach and Touring Class. All coaches are equipped with bench-style seating, designed to accommodate two guests.

Visit GVRR.com to reserve tickets and for more information.

Tip: Stroll through the Snowy Christmas Village Forest at the “North Pole” for photo ops and a keepsake photo with Santa.

Can’t fi t the North Pole Express into your busy holi day schedule? Enjoy the After-Christmas Trains that run from December 26, 2021, to December 30, 2021. All coaches remain adorned with holiday decorations and run daily, departing from Grapevine at 12:50 PM and going to Stockyards Station in Fort Worth. Dine, shop, sightsee, or all three during the stopover in Fort Worth before the train returns to Grapevine.

DURANGO POLAR EXPRESS

November 19, 2021, to January 1, 2022

Planning to travel over the holidays? Head for Colorado to experience the Polar Express by the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. A pre-boarding show at the Durango train depot includes lights and music, then the vintage steam train departs, spouting billows of steam as it chugs toward the valley to pick up Santa at the “North Pole.” Riders enjoy a synchronized light show, music with dancers, and other festivities at the North Pole. St. Nick returns to Durango on board, making his way through the train cars talking with children and handing out gifts. Upon return to Durango, live reindeer (rescues) await to greet riders and Santa.

Visit DurangoTrain.com/events/polar-express-trainride for more information, fares and to reserve tickets. Sweet treats and hot chocolate are enjoyed by all during the train ride. PJ’s welcome!

TIPS & TRICKS:

Serve as is or sprinkle with powdered sugar.

RECIPE revival

BRING NEW LIFE TO YOUR THANKSGIVING LEFTOVERS

BY MELISSA TATE

GRILLED MONTE CRISTO

SERVINGS: 2 | PREP TIME: 10 MIN. | COOK TIME: 5 MIN. | TOTAL TIME: 15 MIN.

INGREDIENTS: 4 slices challah bread | ½ lb. leftover turkey (or desired amount), sliced thin | ½ lb. leftover ham (or desired amount), sliced thin | ¼ cup leftover cranberry sauce | ¼ cup herbed cream cheese, homemade or store-bought | 1 stick butter, softened | arugula

DIRECTIONS: HEAT skillet or griddle to medium heat. MELT 2 Tbsp. of butter in a pan. SPREAD 2 Tbsp. cranberry sauce on one slice of bread and 2 Tbsp. herbed cream cheese on the other. TOP one side with turkey, ham, and arugula, and place both pieces of bread together to make your sandwich. PLACE the sandwich in melted butter and spread 1 to 2 Tbsp. of butter on the top slice of bread, while the bottom toasts. COOK until golden brown, and then flip the sandwich. COOK again golden brown and remove from skillet. Repeat with second sandwich.

TIPS & TRICKS: Try this recipe with fresh strawberries, roasted pears, blueberries, or any leftover fruit you have.

SWEET BISCUIT SHORTCAKES

SERVINGS: 4 | PREP TIME: 15 MIN. | COOK TIME: 25 MIN. | TOTAL TIME: 40 MIN.

INGREDIENTS: 4 leftover biscuits | 2 Tbsp. butter, melted | 1 cup sugar, divided | 3 ripe peaches, peeled and sliced | 3 Tbsp. honey | 1 cup heavy cream | fresh mint

DIRECTIONS: PREHEAT oven to 375°. TOSS sliced peaches in ¼ cup sugar and spread on greased baking sheet. BAKE 7 to 9 minutes until peaches are soft. WHILE peaches roast, brush ½ Tbsp. melted butter on top of each biscuit. SPRINKLE ¼ cup of sugar equally on each biscuit. REMOVE peaches from the oven. BAKE the biscuits for 5 minutes to warm inside and crisp the top. PREPARE the whipped topping while biscuits are warming. BEAT 1 cup heavy cream with ½ cup sugar on high until soft peaks form, 2 to 3 minutes with a hand or stand mixer. ASSEMBLE by cutting biscuits open, fill the bottom half with peaches, top with whipped cream, and a sprig of mint. ADD top of the biscuit, drizzle with honey and serve.

WHITE BEAN & CAULIFLOWER HUMMUS

SERVINGS: 8 | PREP TIME: 20 MIN. | TOTAL TIME: 20 MIN.

TIPS & TRICKS: This dip is great served warm, cold, or room temperature.

PHOTOS & FOOD BY MELISSA

TATE

To follow her cooking adventures visit MelissaTateTX.com or find her on Instagram at @MELISSATATETX

INGREDIENTS: 3 cups leftover roasted cauliflower | ¼ tsp. salt | ¼ tsp. black pepper | ¼ tsp. garlic powder | 2 Tbsp. minced garlic | 2 ½ Tbsp. tahini | 2 Tbsp. lemon juice | 1 Tbsp. olive oil | 1 15 oz. can white cannelloni beans | salt & pepper | olive oil | parsley | pita | veggies

DIRECTIONS: MAKE sure the cauliflower has been roasted or baked and is cut into 1-inch pieces. ADD cauliflower, salt, pepper, garlic powder, garlic, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, and white beans in a food processor. PROCESS for 3 to 5 minutes, until mixture is very smooth. POUR into a mixing bowl and taste. SEASON with salt and pepper as desired. PLACE hummus in a serving dish, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with parsley, and serve. SERVE with pita bread and veggies.

All original recipes and food prep by Krista Nabors Dick of KND Hospitality. Recipes were adjusted, styled, and photographed by Melissa Tate.

A SMATTERING of stuff

THAT’S MAKING US SAY “WE LIKE IT!” THIS MONTH

BY HEATHER WITHERSPOON

FESTIVE FOODIES

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas with Sur La Table’s annual collection of culinary-themed holiday ornaments. Hand-painted and mouth-blown in Poland and Germany, these unique ornaments are the perfect addition to your tree or as a gift for a loved one for the holidays.

$PRICES VARY, SURLATABLE.COM

CLASSIC CARRY ALL

Portland Leather’s classic tote features sturdy English bridle handles that soften over time, inside and outside pockets, antiqued brass rivets, and a handy key loop. With a variety of colors and sizes ranging from small to extra-large, you are sure to find the perfect fit.

$128 & UP, PORTLANDLEATHERGOODS.COM

FALL FRAGRANCE

The spiced pumpkin candle from Just Bee is made from organic ingredients, natural fragrance, and essential oils. It features top notes of warm pumpkin, mid notes of fall foliage, toasted pecan, and a dash of spice. Other seasonal scents include Apple Harvest, Christmas Hearth, and Holly & Ivy.

$25, SHOP.JUSTBEE.US/

FAIR PLAY

Suited for a stocking stuffer, Queeng is an updated version of the classic deck of playing cards created by Maayan, a 16-year-old from Jerusalem. The deck still works with all the original principles, so you can play ANY card game with it — Go Fish, Poker, Gin Rummy, etc. Instead of the classic hierarchy of King, Queen and Jack royal face cards, Queeng’s suits come with, Monarchs (male & female), Dukes & Duchesses, Princes & Princesses, and a female Joker! Queeng is also the first multi-ethnic deck of cards, celebrating our world’s beautiful ethnicities and ensuring everyone playing feels represented.

$15, QUEENGCARDS.COM