Living Magazine February 2022

LEARN & CREATE BUILD

FEBRUARY 2022

ARLINGTON/MANSFIELD/GRAND PRAIRIE

Providing Care, Changing Lives

“After having my third child, I struggled to lose my pregnancy weight. Then, I watched a relative lose weight at Diet Solution Centers and decided to give it a try. I’m so glad I did!

The ladies at DSC are so nice and helpful. It’ s been amazing to watch the pounds disappear. I feel healthy and have plenty of energy to keep up with my kids. I’d highly recommend DSC to anyone who has weight to lose."

Cardiovascular care just a heartbeat away.

Your heart is at the center of everything you do, and at a Methodist Mansfield Medical Center, we put our whole heart into caring for you. We o er a broad spectrum of cardiac care, from interventional and electrophysiology, to heart surgery. From prevention and diagnosis to treatment, we’re here with comprehensive care to keep your heart healthy. Trust. Methodist.

To take a free heart risk assessment visit MethodistHealthSystem.org/HeartHRA or call 877-637-4297 for a physician referral.

• FILLINGS/RESTORATIONS

• DENTAL SEALANTS

• CROWNS

• CHILDREN’S DENTISTRY

• DENTURES

• BRIDGES

• TOOTH EXTRACTIONS

• ROOT CANALS

• NITROUS OXIDE

• SEDATION DENTISTRY

• TEETH WHITENING

• DENTAL IMPLANTS

• PORCELAIN VENEERS

• INLAYS & ONLAYS

• BONDING

• INVISALIGN

• REHABILITATION DENTISTRY

• SILENT SLEEP ORAL APPLIANCE

Find

Plan

letter from the publisher

Don’t you just love Valentine’s Day? The flowers. The cards. The chocolate. The sentiment. The little kindnesses that show those we love how much we love them. To the Christian, Valentine’s Day is just one more day to demonstrates God’s love to those around us. We should seize that opportunity. Why? Because God created us to love, to express that love to others, and to receive unconditional love from Him. God set the greatest example of love, giving up His only Son for us. Romans 5:8 tells us, “God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” God loves you and me that much!

Scripture overflows with references to God’s great, enduring, and abounding love. In fact, I John 4:16 tells us God is love. This Valentine’s Day why not reach out to someone who may be feeling unloved? A card, a phone call, a visit with an elderly neighbor, a door held open for a stranger, a thank-you to your child’s teacher, a batch of cookies for a coworker, or just a patient ear to listen to a friend are all ways to demonstrate God’s unique love here on Earth. John 13:35 tells us others will know us by the love we show one to another. Let us love one another with the love that comes from God—on Valentine’s Day and all year round.

MISTY DANIELS, OWNER/PUBLISHER mdaniels@livingmagazine.net

682-556-1246

The City of Mansfield beams with the fragrance of love in the air with couples calmly and lovingly strolling through our famous parks and trails. You can feel that there is something special about the month of February as people in our city attend a plethora of special events and celebrate occasions of note, from the observance of African American History Month to the Aiming Up Theater Company’s upcoming performances of a Pulitzer Prize-winning play at the Farr Best Theater. The play, "Sweat” by Lynn Nottage, will be performed on Feb. 4, 5 and 6. Here is a brief synopsis of the play: Filled with warm humor and tremendous heart, "Sweat" tells the story of a group of friends who have spent their lives sharing drinks, secrets, and

The Grand Prairie Big Event is planned for March 26 and registration for volunteers and job requests is open at gptx.org/bigevent until March 1. The Big Event is a one-day, city-wide event in which we celebrate commUNITY by matching volunteers with service projects, neighbors helping neighbors. All Big Event jobs are outdoors, do not required the use of power tools and can be completed within a few hours. To volunteer your group of 10, or to submit an outdoor job around your house, go to gptx.org/bigevent. This is the fifth year of the event. We usually have about 1,000 volunteers working about 100 jobs. The Lake Parks and Farmers Market re-open

Here’s a story to make you smile. While many of us scrambled to provide some kind of normalcy for Arlington families throughout the COVID pandemic, one local librarian employed ingenuity and innovation to truly make a difference. Yuliana Aceves, community programming librarian at the Arlington Public Library, helped implement the “Stories to Our Children” program, which gives parents the opportunity to write and decorate books to give to their children. She also leads the “Little Art” program, which leads families in exploring different art materials each week and organized two new programs to encourage dietary wellness and address health concerns in our community. Ms. Aceves was chosen out of more than 1,300 nominations from library users across the country, to be recognized

laughs while working together on the factory floor. But when layoffs and picket lines begin to chip away at their trust, the friends find themselves pitted against each other in a heart-wrenching fight to stay afloat.

These performances will make for an exciting outing in beautiful Historic Downtown Mansfield. Come and experience the rich culture and artistic diversity of our city! Also on the schedule in February is the Feb. 14 City Council meeting, which is the last regular City Council meeting at which Council can call for a May 2022 bond election. The Council is considering several exciting capital projects for inclusion on a potential May 2022 bond election ballot. Visit mansfieldtexas.gov/mycitymychoice for more information about the projects Council is considering.

for the season in March and April 2022, respectively. This year we ‘ve added two luxury yurts available for rental at Loyd Park, for those who want to glamp in the country near a city. And, we will have a Main Street Fest this year, April 22-24, after cancelling in 2020-2021 due to the pandemic.

And, maybe the most popular Facebook post I’ve ever made as Mayor….we are thrilled to have Hobby Lobby join our business family, locating along SH 161 near Kohls in late 2022.

That will certainly help us Live Life Grand,

with the 2022 I Love My Librarian Award from the American Library Association. Thank you, Ms. Aceves for going above and beyond for your Arlington friends and neighbors. If you love baseball like I love baseball, you won’t want to miss the State Farm College Baseball Showdown at Globe Life Field February 18-20, 2022. This year, Big 12 Conference members Kansas State University, the University of Oklahoma, and Texas Tech University will face the University of Arizona from the Pacific-12 Conference, Auburn University from the Southeastern Conference, and the University of Michigan from the Big 10 Conference with each school playing three games. It’s a great opportunity to show hospitality and welcome others to The American Dream City. See you at the stadium!

FEBRUARY 7

SWEETHEART BREAKFAST

Arlington Parks and Recreation

Bring your Valentine’s date to this sweet breakfast! We’ll have yummy treats and a cute craft to take home for your loved one. 60+. 9am-10:30am. Cost is $5. East Rec Center, 1817 New York Ave. For more information call 817275-1351. Visit our website.

NATURALLYFUN.ORG

FEBRUARY 10

VALENTINE’S DAY PARTY

Arlington Parks and Recreation

Reminisce about some old memories and make some new ones. 11am-1pm. Eunice Rec Center, 1000 Eunice St. Call Belinda to preregister at 817-575-8296.

NOW - FEBRUARY 12

DINOSAUR SAFARI TRAVELING EXHIBIT

River Legacy Living Science Center

Uncover the mysteries of our prehistoric past in our Dinosaur Safari Traveling Exhibit! In an immersive jungle setting. Go on an unforgettable adventure full of hands-on experiences and close encounters with animatronic dinosaurs and fossils. Children will investigate the clues these creatures have left behind in order to learn about dinosaurs and what life was like when they roamed the earth. Visit our website for hours and ticket prices. Tickets are purchased on a first-come,

february 11

VALENTINE TOT PARTY

Arlington Parks and Recreation

Come for a morning filled with Valentine crafts, fun games and special treats. This come and go event is designated for ages 5 and under and we ask that all participants be escorted by a guardian 18 years or older. 10am-11:30am. Cost is $15. Dottie Lynn Rec Center, 3200 Norwood Lane. Visit our website.

NATURALLYFUN.ORG

first-serve basis. 703 NW Green Oaks Blvd. NATURALLYFUN.ORG

FEBRUARY 12 AND 26

MOBILE PET ADOPTION EVENT

Arlington

Adorable adoptable pets looking for new homes will be available at the mobile adoption 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) 10:00am-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.

FEBRUARY 19

MOTHER & SON RUCK CHALLENGE

Arlington Parks and Recreation

This is a fun mother and son event! Grab you “rucks” and participate in 5 different challenging stations. Cost is $5/person. All ages. Starts at 10am. The Beacon Rec Center, 1100 Mansfield Webb Rd. Visit our website NATURALLYFUN.ORG

FEBRUARY 19

KIDS ZONE AFTER DARK

Mansfield

Parents enjoy a night out while the kids have a ball. Includes a movie, dinner, open gym, crafts and more. $15. 5pm-9pm. Mansfield Activities

Center, 106 S. Wisteria St. Visit our website to register.

MANSFIELDTEXAS.GOV/836/KIDS- ZONE

FEBRUARY 26

MAKE IT TO MAIN STREET, A BATTLE OF THE BANDS COMPETITION

Grand Prairie

Local musicians around the metroplex will showcase their talents in front of a live audience and judges. The top performer selected will have the opportunity to perform at Grand Prairie’s annual Main St. Fest. Free for audience. 5:30pm. The Epic, 2950 Epic Place.

FEBRUARY 26

BBQ & BREWS TOUR

Arlington Parks and Recreation

Join us for a trip around DFW to enjoy 2 local breweries and some BBQ. No hassle of trying to decide where to go. Bring your friends! Ages 21+. Cost is $40. 12pm-5pm. Elzie Rec Center. For more information call 817-275-1351. Visit our website

NATURALLYFUN.ORG

see more events in your area on LIVINGMAGAZINE.NET

FEBRUARY 11 // MARRY ME IN THEATERS, PEACOCK

Kat Valdez (Jennifer Lopez) is half of the sexiest celebrity power couple on Earth with hot new music supernova Bastian (Maluma, making his featurefilm debut). As Kat and Bastian’s inescapable hit single, “Marry Me,” climbs the charts, they are about to be wed before an audience of their fans.

Divorced high-school math teacher Charlie Gilbert (Owen Wilson) has been dragged to Kat and Bastian’s concert by his daughter Lou and his best friend. When Kat learns, seconds before the ceremony, that Bastian has cheated on her with her assistant, she has a meltdown on stage, questioning love, truth, and loyalty. As her world falls away, she locks eyes with a stranger — a face in the crowd.

An unlikely romance about two different people searching for something real in a world where value is based on likes and followers, Marry Me is a modern love story about celebrity, marriage, and social media.

FEBRUARY 11 // MOONCHILD STARFRUIT

FEBRUARY 18 // TAME IMPALA THE SLOW RUSH B-SIDES & REMIXES

FEBRUARY 25 // TEARS FOR FEARS THE TIPPING POINT

WHAT TO READ

FEBRUARY 10, 2012 // THE VOW RACHEL MCADAMS, CHANNING TATUM MICHAEL SUCSY [GREY GARDENS, EVERY DAY]

Inspired by true events, The Vow tells the story of happily married newlyweds Paige (Rachel McAdams) and Leo (Channing Tatum) after their idyllic life together shatters when a car accident leaves her in a coma. When Paige awakes, she has severe memory loss and doesn’t know Leo. Up against many obstacles, Leo works to win her heart again.

FEBRUARY 1 // FROM HOLLYWOOD WITH LOVE BY

SCOTT MESLOW

No Hollywood genre has been more misunderstood — or more unfairly under-appreciated — than the romantic comedy. Funny, charming, and reliably crowd-pleasing, rom-coms were the essential backbone of the Hollywood landscape, launching the careers of many of Hollywood’s most talented actors and filmmakers, such as Julia Roberts and Matthew McConaughey, and providing many of the yet limited creative opportunities women had in Hollywood. But despite — or perhaps because of — all that, the rom-com has routinely been overlooked by the Academy Awards or snobbishly dismissed by critics. In From Hollywood with Love, culture writer and GQ contributor, Scott Meslow seeks to right this wrong, celebrating and analyzing rom-coms with the appreciative, insightful critical lens they’ve always deserved.

SURGICAL ASSOCIATES OF MANSFIELD

ROBOTIC HERNIA CARE

BY MEREDITH KNIGHT

2021 was a busy year for the five board-certified surgeons at Surgical Associates of Mansfi eld. Not only was Methodist Mansfield redesignated as the area’s only level-three trauma center, but they were named Best General Surgeons and Best Bariatric Surgeons by Living Magazine and Dr. Alexander was named one of Top Doctors by D Magazine. They were further named a Center of Excellence for bariatric surgery and were once again the busiest robotic surgery practice in North Texas. Yet even as they also serve as TCU medical school professors, these five

surgeons have earned a reputation for taking their time and really connecting with each patient. And while each one is a highly trained and experienced surgeons, they always explore all non-invasive treatments options before recommending surgery. It’s no wonder patients travel from Arlington, Grand Prairie, Midlothian, Cedar Hill, Fort Worth, and farther to be treated by the team at Surgical Associates of Mansfield. Patients fi nd their way to 2975 East Broad Street—often on the recommendation of their primary-care doctor—with issues such as hernias, gastroesophageal reflux disease

(GERD), reflux, diverticulitis, hernias, gallbladder disease, or in search of bariatric surgery options. Once there, they fi nd a compassionate ear within a warm, welcoming environment. Each of the surgeons at Surgical Associates of Mansfi eld is trained and experienced in the da Vinci surgical system which offers their patients a less invasive, more accurate surgery. This robotic system offers patients:

• Reduced pain

• Lower risk of infection or complications

• Less blood loss

• Less scarring due to smaller incisions

• Quicker return to normal activities

INNOVATIVE ROBOTIC SURGERY

The da Vinci Robotic Surgical System is revolutionary in that it assists skilled surgeons in performing complex and delicate procedures with greater accuracy and precision. The increased precision offered by the system allows Surgical Associates of Mansfield surgeons to perform even the most complex surgery less invasively with confidence and accuracy.

ADVANCED HERNIA CARE

A hernia is an abnormal opening or rupture in the body “wall” through which an organ or tissue can protrude. If left untreated, internal organs, such as the intestine, bulging through the hernia, can develop into serious, even life-threatening conditions. Commonly occurring in the groin region (inguinal) or belly button (umbilical), hernias can also occur anywhere in the abdominal wall, especially where a surgery was previously performed. A patient can develop a hernia from bending or lifting with poor form leading to pressure to a weak area of the body or a hernia can occur due to normal wear and tear of aging, chronic coughing, being

overweight, or chronically constipated, or even from pregnancy.

KNOW

THE

SYMPTOMS

Hernia symptoms can include a bulge, pressure, or dull ache especially after bending or lifting strenuously, coughing or straining. In some cases, intestines can become trapped in the hernia, leading to extreme pain and even cutting off blood supply to the intestines. If you or someone you love is suffering with a hernia, it’s not something that should be ignored.

Millions of adults suffer from one type of hernia or the other, causing more serious health concerns and lowering their quality of life. Both men and women of all ages are at risk of developing a hernia. If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, it’s time to schedule an appointment to have your condition evaluated:

• A protrusion in the groin area or abdomen

• Dull or severe pain when lifting

• A constant, dull aching sensation

• A feeling of fullness

• Nausea

• Chronic constipation

SURGICAL ASSOCIATES OF MANSFIELD CAN HELP

Now for the good news. Hernia repair surgery is one of the most common surgeries in the United States, with more than one million performed every year. While not all hernias require surgery, when they do, the doctors at SAM are experienced with hundreds of successful hernia surgeries in their wake.

Some hernias repair themselves over time, but in most cases the patient requires surgery. SAM surgeons can examine and diagnose the type of hernia you have, then recommend the best viable treatment options. Their dynamic surgical team will take the time to assure

you fully understand your diagnosis and treatment recommendation.

ROBOTIC HERNIA SURGERY

Advanced da Vinci technology allows SAM surgeons to take care of the hernia through a series of small incisions or cuts, rather than a large, open incision. This robot-assisted surgical technique enables your surgeon to be in control 100% of the time, providing a 3D HD view inside your body, enhancing vision, precision, and control. They offer both robotic and laparoscopic hernia surgery options.

DYNAMIC SURGERY TEAM

The mission of Surgical Associates of Mansfield is simple—to improve the lives of those they serve. Drs. Alexander, Trussell, Parcells, Standerwick, and Cruz have performed thousands of successful surgeries restoring the quality of life to many of your DFW neighbors. They’re committed to using evidence-based medicine and advances in medical technology to provide high quality of care for their patients. Excellence is their standard in everything they do. Visit MansfieldSurgery.com to find out more.

The board-certified surgeons at Surgical Associates of Mansfield specialize in the da Vinci surgical system, one of the first and most advanced forms of robotic-assisted surgery for use in hernia, gallbladder, bariatric, reflux, and diverticulitis.

2975 EAST BROAD STREET, SUITE 200 MANSFIELD, TEXAS 76063 (682)-518-8619 MANSFIELDSURGERY.COM

LOVE NEVER fails

“IN THIS IS LOVE, NOT THAT WE HAVE LOVED GOD BUT THAT HE LOVED US AND SENT HIS SON TO BE THE PROPITIATION FOR OUR SINS.” – 1 JOHN 4:10

BY DUNCAN DOTSON

rom Genesis to Revelation, the believer can read about love and its definition — and of a God who the Bible tells us IS love. (I John 4:16) The Bible’s mandate to love doesn’t end in the pages of our Bibles, though. It continues today in and through the lives of every child of God. We’re challenged to submit — not just to an emotion called love — but to an action of love that surpasses all understanding. Love is a verb!

Godly love was demonstrated for us on the cross, as Jesus prayed, “Father forgive them, they know not what they do.”

Now, that’s love! A love that would look at those who stone us and see beyond them and into the heavens and see Jesus. Bible precepts challenge us to love the unlovable. (Luke 6:35) That kind of love is only possible when we allow the focus

of our love to be Christ Jesus and keep our eyes on Him, the Author and Finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). When we remember that we love God because He loved us first (1 John 4:19), that He loved us enough to call us “sons of God” (1 John 3:1), that Jesus loved us and died for us while we were yet sinners (Romans 5:8), and that God so loved the world He gave His only begotten Son, how can we respond with anything but unbridled love for everyone?

The Apostle Paul delineated God-like love for us in 1 Corinthians 13. Often referred to as “the love chapter,” a favorite at Christian wedding celebrations, it tells us that Godly love is patient, kind, forgiving, humble, honoring, peaceable, truthful, trustworthy, hopeful, persevering, protective, unfailing, and selfless. Paul closes with, “And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love.” (1 Corinthians 13:13) It’s that caliber of love we’re called to share with a lost and dying world.

In Galatians Chapter 5, Paul describes for us of the “fruit” which comes to each born-again believer as they surrender to the Holy Spirit. It’s no coincidence love is the first fruit he mentions. Paul was reminding the Galatians then and believers today how important it is to God that His children demonstrate His love. He exhorts us to love our enemies and reminds us there’s no greater power than love. In our humanness, it’s not natural to turn the other cheek (Matthew 5:39), to be patient and kind, to love those who hate us and pray for those who persecute us (Matthew 5:44), and to do it all without expecting anything in return. But God never tells us loving others will be easy. He promises us we don’t have to do it alone. The God who IS love will enable us to love in accordance with His instructions.

God’s Word shows us love has its place in the lives of the rich and the poor, the sick and the well, the hurt and those who do the hurting. There’s no limitation to God’s love. In 1 Thessalonians 3:12, Paul wrote, “May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you.” Paul was a man who had passion but did not yet understand the power of love. When we first meet Paul, in fact, he’s a zealot who mistook his religious zeal for a mission to destroy those who didn’t think as he did nor was born with the same gifting he was. Just like Paul, we must be reminded that our love grows toward God first, then toward all men. That phrase “all men” is inclusive of those who are different from we are and those who don’t know yet how to love. The hope in all we’ve learned is that it will grow (abound) more and more.

May the Lord richly bless you and wrap you in the love that comes through Christ Jesus, and may the overflow of that love touch the lives of many, as you’re reminded in the midst of the battle that LOVE NEVER FAILS.

Duncan Dotson is the Senior Pastor at Church of Prayer Christian Fellowship in Rockwall.

KOS/DANCHAK

AUDIOLOGY AND HEARING AIDS

After Melissa Danchak completed her externship, she went to work for Susanne Kos at Kos Audiology. Together they served North Texans with hearing loss. When Susanne Kos was ready to retire, Melissa purchased the practice and kept part of the business name in homage to Susanne’s legacy.

CARRYING ON THE MISSION

To this day, Dr. Danchak is still encouraged by the examples she learned from Susanne. “There are two things she really taught me - always remember how much of a difference we make for those with hearing loss and always go the extra mile for them. “I’m inspired every day to help people hear better and understand what’s being said. I meet with people who’ve been married for over 50 years. We help people understand their grandchildren over the phone again. Seeing their smiles when they realize they’ll be able to have more meaningful conversations with their families is a very special perk of the job, so to speak.”

REVIEWS AND REFERRALS

Google, Facebook, and HealthyHearing.com are brimming with positive reviews from folks who trust their hearing health to Kos/Danchak Audiology & Hearing Aids! “Each month, we have friends and family members of satisfied patients coming in to see us because of the care and service they’ve heard so much about,” Dr. Danchak said. Local physicians enthusiastically refer their patients to Kos/Danchak Audiology & Hearing Aids where they’ve been helping North Texans hear better for over 35 years. Not many audiology practices in North Texas can say that, she said.

A MISSION OF BETTER HEARING

The team you trust with your hearing health care matters. You want a team of proven and experienced partners. “We understand the investment you’re making when it comes to hearing better-and our entire staff walks with you on your journey to better hearing,” Dr Danchak said.

MEET DR. DANCHAK

Melissa Danchak and her husband of 22 years have two teenage children. They’re active members of Christ Church in Irving where Melissa leads Bible study and gives her time to outreach ministries serving the homeless and the underprivileged. She also serves as treasurer of the theater booster club at her daughters’ school. She spends her free time with family and friends, exercising, playing piano, traveling, and enjoying theater productions.

“Hearing loss is permanent,” Dr. Danchak said. “There isn’t a pill or surgery that can ‘fi x’ it. One myth we work to dispel is that hearing aids make you look ‘old’. Hearing ads help you hear better and understand more clearly. We have the most up-todate training and technology in our office to ensure you’re fit with the best possible technology for your lifestyle and your budget.”

The Kos/Danchak Audiology & Hearing Aids team is ready to help you hear better, today! To learn more about them or to schedule your appointment, go to NorthTXHearing.com.

Helping North Texans Hear Better for Over 35 Years 101 West Randol Mill Road Arlington, Texas 76011 (817) 277-7039 | NorthTXHearing.com

Talk to your insurance provider.

With the holidays fast approaching, we don’t want you to miss a word from your loved ones.

Thanksgiving Tips for the Family with Hearing Loss:

Seating selection is key.

Insurance companies can give you a complete list of audiologists and audiology practices in their provider network. Depending on your insurance and coverage, you may need to obtain a referral from your primary care doctor before your audiology appointment. A good audiology practice can help you determine the potential requirements and responsibilities you may have before your appointment.

Make sure to position family members with hearing loss in the best spot to be heard and seen.

Conduct Your Own Research

Soften the background noise.

An audiology practice that has a history of helping people hear better will have a very good connection to the surrounding community, a reputation for success demonstrated by online reviews and patient testimonials, a user-friendly, easy to navigate, and educational website, and a team of employees that know exactly how to provide you with a positive experience!

Hearing aids can only do so much. Turn down the music, turn off the TV, etc.

Take a break.

Family dynamics can be tough enough on their own. Find a quiet spot, recollect yourself and then rejoin the fun.

Experience Better Hearing

An investment in better hearing is an investment in a better quality of life! A good audiology practice will provide you with a live, in-office listening experience with hearing devices and may also allow you to try the devices out of the office for a week to 10 days so you can experience better hearing in the comfort of your home or at work.

Melissa Danchak Audiologist Desi Wood Audiologist Kos/Danchak

Kos/Danchak Audiology has been helping North Texans Hear Better Since 1984!

Audiology has been Helping North Texans Hear Better Since 1984! Our Audiologists provide superior hearing care with individualized treatment plans.

PET CLUB

PET CLUB MEMBERS

To join the club, visit LivingMagazine.net/pet-club Send your pet’s name, your name, your address, and a clear photo of your pet. They might just turn up in a future issue of Living!

I LOVE YOU ” MORE THAN OUR FAVORITE TREATS

Under the American Rescue Plan of March 2021, this credit, that’s a dollar-for-dollar reduction in your tax bill, jumps to $3,000 (up from $2,000) for children 17 and younger and $3,600 for children five and younger.

As in the past, however, there is a phase-out for higherincome earners. If your adjusted gross income is over $75,000 as a single filer, over $112,500 as a head of household, or over $150,000 filing jointly, your child tax credit payments begin to phase out by $50 for every $1,000 in income over those amounts.

For single, non-itemizing taxpayers, the standard deduction for 2021 is $12,550 (up $150 from 2020) and $25,100 for married couples filing jointly (up $300 from 2020).

For seniors, the standard deduction is even higher. If you’re 65 or older, married, and filing jointly, you can add $1,350 each to the standard deduction (up from a $1,300 add-on in 2020). Those who are single or head of a household and 65 or older can add $1,700 to the standard deduction (up $50 from 2020).

CHANGES TO NOTE

If you haven’t already, it’s time to start thinking about your Federal Tax Return. Here are five changes you should be aware of that may make figuring out and paying them slightly less painful.

In the past, the total charitable deduction for filers who did not itemize, either single or a married couple filing jointly, was $300. When filing your taxes for 2021, non-itemizing married couples filing jointly can each take a $300 charitable deduction for a total of $600.

This particular tax break is for qualified tuition and other expenses paid for undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree courses, including courses to acquire or improve job skills. The previous credit was $2,000 per student per year, but the stimulus legislation of December 2020 raised the credit to $2,500.

Under previous tax law, you could only deduct medical expenses over10% of your income. Under recent changes, you can now deduct medical expenses that exceed 7.5% of your income.

As an example, under previous tax law, if you made $50,000 and had $8,000 in medical bills, you could only deduct $3,000, as the other $5,000 (10% of $50,000) didn’t qualify. Now, however, with that same income and expenses, only $3,750 (7.5% of $50,000) would not qualify, and you could deduct $4,250.

Keeping up with changes in the tax code can be extremely perplexing, and hiring a professional to prepare your taxes will help you simplify the process.

O ur clients previous home reflected their love for classic design and colors, but with this big move, they wanted to create a new experience inside their home while still holding on to some of their most memorable pieces.

FRESH start

OPEN AND AIRY RENOVATION IN DALLAS

PHOTOGRAPHY

REGAN ELIZABETH OF REGAN ELIZABETH PHOTOGRAPHY DESIGN

LACY HUGHES AND BILLIE MARIE THARALDSON OF JULIAN DESIGN COURTESY

JULIAN DESIGN

With their third child off to college this year, our clients sought to create an inviting home representing a fresh start as new residents of Dallas.

While the house had gorgeous bones, it lacked the details and custom touches that would ultimately define it as their new home and truly make it feel personal and one-of-a-kind.

In Minnesota, their home was very traditional. But for this new space, the design brief was simple, "light."

In the kitchen, we reworked the island to add a banquette seating area that creates an open space between the kitchen and main living room.

We added some architectural wainscoting and lighting in the formal dining room to create a grander atmosphere for entertaining.

On the upper level, we expanded into the attic space to create a rec room with all their favorite games and hobbies. We added a wet bar that’s perfect for gathering when all the kids come home to visit.

A small closet off the dining room was converted into an office area by expanding and adding the French doors, allowing the owners to have light even when needing some privacy.

YEAR-ROUND YARD

LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE CALENDAR

BY CHERYL ALEXANDER

FEBRUARY // Turf: Choose a dry day to mow and inspect for weeds. Either hand pull them or apply spot applications of post-emergence herbicides. Make sure you follow label directions, and that the product is approved for your grass type. Planting: Plant new shrubs and trees in new spots or remove and replace unattractive or dead plants. Prune trees: Except for maples and birches.

MARCH // Lawns: Lime your grass every couple of years if you have acidic soil. Use a soil test to determine how much to apply or 15 to 20 pounds of lime per 100 square feet of lawn area. Azaleas: If azaleas aren’t planted by color, consider rearranging them by color for maximum effect after they finish blooming, then prune and shape them for a better display next year.

APRIL // Mulch: Remove and replace or freshen mulch. Lawns: Begin regular mowing and trim only about the top third of the grass blades. Herbs: Plant herbs generously after frost.

MAY // Lawns: Begin regular fertilizing with the right fertilizer and application amount for your grass type. Pruning: Once plants have leafed out, make a final pruning to cut the limb or shoot back to live wood. Annuals: Plant summer annuals, such as petunias, marigolds, salvia, and impatiens.

JUNE // Water: Begin a regular irrigation schedule (at dawn and/or dusk) with special attention to hanging baskets, containers, and any new additions to your landscape. Houseplants: Place houseplants outside in the shade for some fresh air. Also, remember to water and feed them per the instructions for each plant. Mulch: Apply extra mulch around new plantings to reduce water loss and heat stress.

JULY // Lawns: Raise the cutting height of your lawnmower to accommodate drought and heat. Birdbaths: Placing a bath near a small tree or large shrub keeps the water cooler, provides shelter for the birds, and encourages use.

AUGUST // Vegetables: Begin planting your fall vegetables. Make sure to water regularly. Lawns: If your grass is dry, wait until after it is watered or after it rains, then mow once you can walk through it without getting your shoes wet. Iris and daylilies: Divide these spring-bloomers and prepare new beds.

SEPTEMBER // Fall planting: Begin planting trees and shrubs. Water: Adjust your watering schedule for cooler weather. Don’t allow containers to waterlog.

OCTOBER // Turf: Overseed warm-season grasses with annual ryegrass to enjoy a green lawn during winter months. Color beds: Remove tired summer annuals, prepare the soil, plant, and fertilize coolweather annuals. Fall greens: Sow mustard, collard, turnips, and lettuce seeds.

NOVEMBER // Compost: Use fallen leaves and plant debris for compost, mixing with a shovelful of soil and an optional handful of fertilizer. Sprinkle weekly with water if there is no rain and turn the pile regularly. Lawns: Fertilize tall fescue and other cool-season lawns with a quality lawn fertilizer that contains timedrelease nitrogen to prevent burn.

DECEMBER // Lime: If the soil is acidic, your landscape could benefit from an application of lime. Irrigation: Adjust your watering schedule, reducing irrigation time by half when night temperatures remain in the 40s or below.

SPENDING THAT makes sense

SMALL, YET SIGNIFICANT HOME UPDATES

BY CHERYL ALEXANDER

efore taking on your next home remodeling project, it’s a good idea to get your ducks in a row by doing some essential preliminary work.

First, determine whether you’ll need a professional or not. If you do, then research the professionals you’ll want to hire. Then consider that not all renovations are equal. Many projects make for a better return on investment (ROI) when it’s time to sell. Lean on the side of neutrality so that house hunters will clearly visualize their own personalities in the home.

Also, research current trends. Each year, surveys are conducted revealing the ROI of popular home renovations. Contractors nation-wide are polled to calculate what these upgrades cost to complete. The data collected is compared with how much real estate agents estimated these features would boost a home’s market price. This year’s answers overwhelmingly show that the focus should be on the parts of your home that are the most visible because most buyers will decide whether they want to purchase in the first few minutes of looking. That means a new garage door and front door, new siding, and fresh, updated landscaping should be the first projects you consider.

A new garage has a huge visual impact on a house you’re planning to put on the market soon and replacing it can recoup 97.5% of the cost in resale. Entry door replacement is impactful and one of the first things a buyer will see. And the ROI is a whopping 90.7%.

The exterior of your house can take a beating from the elements, and after a while it shows. New siding could recoup 75.6% of the cost when you sell your house. Replacing part of that siding with manufactured stone veneer, however, will have a bigger impact. Homeowners who install a stone veneer on their house – usually on the bottom third of the exterior – see as much as 94.9% of the cost come back in the sale price.

Fresh landscaping could be just what the home needs to look new and appealing and with an ROI of 100%, every dollar spent here is worth it. It’s important to replace dead patches of grass, mow the lawn regularly and add a bit of color with flowers or bushes.

Indoors for kitchens and bathrooms, think minor renovations. A major upscale kitchen renovation will recoup just 50% of the cost when the property sells, and an upscale bathroom remodel only 56%. Instead, consider simply updating the kitchen cabinets and backsplash or installing a double vanity or new lights and showerhead in the bathroom.

Another worthy consideration is replacing the windows, which impacts both the outdoor appearance and the indoor bottom line. Replacement of midrange windows can see an ROI up to $1.15 for every dollar spent on the project, but that profit decreases with more upscale windows.

Bang for your Buck

Not all renovations add the value you might expect. If you’re thinking of renovating in 2022, you’ll want to choose your projects carefully. To make it easier, we’ve broken down the home renovations you’re likely better off skipping and we’ve added the amount you might expect as a return on your investment (ROI) to help make things even more clear.

Pool installation - 7%

Major kitchen overhaul - 50%

High end bath remodel - 56%

New carpet or marble floorsAround 40% for carpet and only 50% for marble.

Wallpaper - 0%

Sunroom - Less than 50%

Patio – Less than 50%

ompost is that glorious material gardeners and farmers add to their soil to improve its physical properties and increase their yields. This black gold is created by combining organic wastes, such as food scraps, yard trimmings, and animal manures with agents such as wood chips and leaf litter, then allowing the combination to mature. Once “mature,” it contains “humus,” a black, nutrient-rich material with a delightful, earthy smell and the magic to super charge whatever you hope to grow.

Benefits of Composting

By composting, you can personally have a hand in reducing the amount of methane, a harmful greenhouse gas that’s emitted from landfills. It eliminates the need for chemical fertilizers in your yard or garden, increases the output of your plantings, saves the cost of expensive growing compounds, and makes your garden soil more water retentive so that you can water less often. Because compost-enriched soil promotes healthy plant growth, plants are more resistant to diseases and pests, reducing the need for pesticides in your yard — and on our planet.

PLANT FOOD PREP

THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF COMPOSTING

BY MIMI GREENWOOD KNIGHT

Getting Started

A traditional backyard compost pile should consist of equal amounts of brown material such as dead leaves, branches, and twigs to generate carbon, and green material such as grass clippings, vegetable and fruit scraps, and

coffee grounds to generate nitrogen. Arrange them in alternating layers and varying sizes and keep them moist but not drenched.

Simply add your “browns” and “greens,” moistening them as you go, then turn and aerate from time

to time. A properly managed compost bin shouldn’t attract pests or smell bad. To discourage fruit flies, bury your greens under your browns. In two to three months, the material on the bottom will be dark and rich in color, and you’ll be able to call yourself a successful composter.

Countertop Options

If your yard isn’t big enough to accommodate a traditional compost bin or your HOA frowns upon it, not to worry. Countertop versions can do the work of breaking down your food waste in just a few hours. Commonplace in other countries, countertop composters are finally making their way to the US. Like traditional composters, they can compost fruit and vegetable scraps but can also handle soft bones and things like pasta and bread. (But not pits, nuts, watermelon rinds, or pineapple leaves). They can dry, grind, and cool your food waste to a tenth of its original size within three to six hours, so you can run multiple cycles a day, then mix the finished product into your garden or house plants to boost nutrients and enhance soil texture. Several versions are available now, while others are being crowdsourced. Whichever way you go, composting is an earth-friendly way to have a gorgeous and abundant garden — naturally.

PERFORMANCE polished

Whether you get fit indoors or out, you can still work up a sweat in style.

Helga's Custom Alterations

Serving the Metroplex area since 1981

Our clients are people with discerning tastes who look for a tailor they can trust with their wardrobe and image, from the casual to the elegant, bridal to corporate.

At Helga's, we build our business on principles of hard work and dedication to excellence, using our tailoring expertise to bring clients their desired results. We take time to understand your specific needs and to design creative, skilled solutions. We draw on our prolific study of fabrics, silhouettes, and common problems of fit and work with you to provide practical and beautiful alteration solutions, devoting our attention to the details you seek. With an eye for precise measurements and a broad knowledge of industry techniques, we transform ready-to-wear apparel into superior fit while staying true to your chosen style.

Over the years, our clients have become more than patrons, returning as satisfied customers and as good friends. An established business in Arlington since 1981, we look forward to many more years of service in our community and invite you to experience for yourself a personal touch tailored for you.

Tuesday - Friday: 10:00am - 6:00pm

Saturday: 10:00am - 2:00pm

Sunday & Monday: Closed

2400 W Pioneer Pkwy Ste 128 Arlington, TX 76013

FINDING fitness

WHAT WORKOUT REGIMEN IS BEST FOR YOU?

BY AUDREY SELLERS

very year, about half of people who make New Year’s resolutions say they want to lose weight or improve their fitness, according to a survey by YouGov. And by about mid-February, about 80% of those people have given up on their resolution.

This month, find the workout that you’ll actually want to do instead of calling it quits. Read on for some quick tips on choosing a workout regimen that aligns with your fitness level, lifestyle, and personality.

IF YOU’RE OUT OF SHAPE

Whether you’re recovering from an injury or simply haven’t worked out in weeks (or longer), you may feel intimidated getting back into a workout routine. Do your body good by easing back into exercise. Try walking around the block at your own pace. You could also try some bodyweight exercises like planks and crunches. These don’t require any fancy gym equipment, and you can do them anywhere.

IF YOU’RE SHORT ON TIME

You don’t need to carve out hours a day to work out — you just need to make your workouts as efficient and effective as possible. One way to do this is by using multiple muscle groups at one time. For example, combine an overhead press with a squat to work your upper body, core, and legs. You can even fit in a quick workout at the office between meetings. Do some pushups off the edge of your desk or a few triceps dips on your chair.

IF YOU WANT TO WORK OUT WITH OTHERS

Sweating with like-minded people can add to your social life and healthy lifestyle. Join or start a walking group in your neighborhood or look for recreational sports leagues in your community. From softball to soccer, you can find all kinds of team sports that allow you to meet new people and stay on track with your workouts. You can also explore class-focused workouts such as Pilates, barre, yoga, and Spin.

IF YOU NEED EXTRA HELP

Book a consultation with a certified personal trainer. These experts will listen to your fitness goals and develop safe and effective programs uniquely tailored to you. Personal trainers also add a layer of accountability to your workout regimen. When you have a workout session booked — either

in person or online — you’re less likely to skip it. You can find personal trainers at your local gym or through sites such as FitnessTrainer.com.

IF YOU’RE BORED WITH YOUR WORKOUTS

Kick boredom to the curb by mixing up your workouts. Do you typically pound the pavement? Try swimming laps instead. Are you a regular in group Pilates classes? Do some solo workouts. And if you typically exercise indoors, head outdoors for a sweat session. Adding variety is one of the easiest ways to overcome boredom.

IF YOU’RE READY FOR A CHALLENGE

You may be feeling bored with your workouts because you’re ready to take them up a notch. If you’ve never completed a 5K, sign up for one. More than eight million people run 5Ks (which are 3.1 miles long) each year. You can then move on to a longer marathon or even a sprint triathlon, which includes a half-mile swim, a 15-mile bike ride, and a three to four-mile run.

If you want to take your strength training to the next level, consider signing up for a bodybuilding competition. Athletes compete in different contests, such as fitness, bikini, and physique. Whatever challenge you take on, remember to break down your goal into smaller, manageable components, so you don’t start to feel overwhelmed.

IF YOU NEED TOUGH LOVE

When your willpower wanes, march into a boot camp to get back on track. Fitness boot camps, which are modeled after military training, offer high-intensity interval training under an instructor’s direction. If you’re looking for a high-energy workout and the camaraderie of a group, boot camps may be good for you.

BSTUCK IN THE middle

UPPER SPINE DISCOMFORT, CAUSES AND TREATMENT

BY DAVID BUICE

ack pain is a common cause for people missing work or school and suffering disabilities worldwide.

While pain in the lower back is the more common culprit, upper and middle back pain can be an issue because the bones there don’t flex and move as much as those in the neck and lower back.

UPPER AND MIDDLE BACK STRUCTURE

The upper and middle back, known as the thoracic spine, extends from the base of your neck to the bottom of the rib cage. It’s primarily composed of 12 vertebrae attached to the rib cage, along with spongy discs lying between the vertebrae that absorb shock as you move.

SOURCES OF UPPER BACK PAIN

Pain occurring in this area of the body may be caused by the following:

Muscle deconditioning and poor posture – While our muscles can be conditioned and strengthened through exercise, the opposite is also true. You can decondition muscles by not using them properly. One common source of muscle deconditioning and pain is slouching in a chair over a desk for prolonged periods, weakening muscles in the upper back.

Muscle overuse – This often occurs because of repetitious movement over a period of time, leading to muscle strain, tightness, and irritation.

Injury – Traumatic injury from things like a car accident, slipping and falling, lifting incorrectly, or even working out too hard can bring on upper back pain.

Herniated disc – While more common in the lower back, herniated discs may happen in the upper back as well. A spinal disc has a soft, jellylike nucleus surrounded by a rubbery exterior. A herniated disc occurs when some of the nucleus breaks through the disc’s exterior, irritating a nearby nerve. This irritation can lead to pain, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg.

Osteoarthritis – This occurs when the cartilage that cushions and protects the bones wears down through aging, causing bones to rub together, triggering pain.

Myofascial pain – Pain in the upper back can also be caused by problems in the connective tissue of the back, what doctors call the fascia. This pain can start after an injury or overuse, and for reasons not fully understood, chronic myofascial pain may continue long after the initial injury.

In addition to these common causes, upper back pain, in rare cases, may be caused by conditions such as lung cancer, gallbladder disease, or a spinal infection.

HOME TREATMENT

The good news in all this is that in many cases, though not all, upper and middle back pain can be managed at home through a combination of rest, over-the-counter pain medications, the application of heat and ice, and exercises to strengthen back and stomach muscles.

However, you should seek immediate medical attention if the pain is chronic, accompanied by a fever, occurs after a serious accident or sports injury, or if you lose control of your bladder or bowels.

EXPERIENCE MAT TERS!

S O LUTIO N

Donna J. Smiedt

Board Certi ed Family Law Attorney (by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization)

Certi ed Family Law Mediator Collaboratively Trained 38 Years in Family Law Experience

Donna J. Smiedt and Desaray Muma have been collaboratively trained to provide our clients with a private and less stressful way to resolve their family law disputes than in a courtroom. We are proud to work with a team of highly specialized professionals to address the entire family’s needs as we assist our clients in developing a new family dynamic, post-divorce, which includes providing tools to problem solve and co-parent for the best interest of their children.

SMALL bites

NATIONAL CHILDREN’S DENTAL HEALTH MONTH

BY CHRISTI BLEVINS

Are you ready for some news you can sink your teeth into? February is the 81st National Children’s Dental Health Month. While you probably won’t find any parades, you can celebrate by scheduling a dental appointment for your child.

A TOOTH TIMELINE

On average, a baby’s first tooth will come in at about six months. By the age of three, most children have twenty baby teeth. These teeth usually begin falling out at age five or six, making way for permanent teeth.

THE IMPORTANCE OF EARLY CARE

In the past, many people thought the temporary nature of baby teeth meant that they didn’t require regular dental appointments. This couldn’t be further from the truth. When a baby tooth is gone before its time, the permanent teeth can shift into the empty space, causing crowding. Healthy baby teeth ensure a child can chew properly and even aid in speech development.

If you have a little one, it is recommended that you schedule a dental checkup by age one.

SOME TIPS FOR A SMOOTH DENTAL CHECKUP

Schedule your appointment for a time of day when your child isn’t overly tired or hungry. Plan on the first visit taking around 30 to 45 minutes.

If you have a personal fear of the dentist chair, be careful not to let your child pick up on your anxieties.

Talk about why seeing the dentist is important with preschoolers. Be enthusiastic!

Schedule your child’s next visit before leaving the office. Most dentists recommend children be seen every six months, but some encourage more frequent visits. This allows the dentist to keep an eye on possible problem areas and tooth development.

You are an expert on your child’s behavior. Discreetly let the dentist know if your child has a history of being fearful, anxious, stubborn.

The best way to have a smooth visit is to protect your child’s teeth between visits. This includes regular brushing and flossing and avoiding sticky and sugary foods.

WHAT TO EXPECT

The dentist will check for cavities and educate you on how to clean your child’s gums and teeth. You will also receive advice concerning thumb sucking and pacifier use. If your child is a little older, the dentist may do a complete exam of the teeth, gums, jaws, and bite. There may be a gentle cleaning to polish teeth and remove any plaque and tartar buildup. This is the perfect time for your child to receive instructions on proper brushing and flossing techniques, even if they still need a parent’s help. Your dentist may or may not recommend X-rays to diagnose decay. While normally taken at every visit, X-rays are used occasionally to see how baby teeth spacing is affecting the permanent teeth.

Older children may be comfortable heading back to the exam room while you stay in the waiting area. Positive experiences in the dentist chair during childhood can lead to a winning smile for life.

Tracing the Tooth Fairy’s Family Tree

The forerunner to the tooth fairy was Norse. In the late 900s, a tooth fee was paid to children who lost their first tooth. Lost baby teeth were so valued in Scandinavia that they were often made into necklaces worn by warriors for good luck.

The full story of the Tooth Fairy is purely American. The first mention appeared in a “Household Hints” section in the Chicago Tribune in 1908. To make it easier for parents to convince children to pull loose teeth, the author urged children to put their teeth under a pillow for the Tooth Fairy. The advertised going rate was 5 cents per tooth. That’s about $1.50 today.

In many Spanish-speaking countries, the Tooth Fairy is a mouse or a rat. The tooth is placed in a glass of water at bedtime. While the gap-toothed child sleeps, the mouse drinks the water and leaves money or candy. French kids have a mouse, too, but the teeth go under a pillow.

Turkish children bury their teeth for a successful future.

In South Africa, baby teeth go in slippers instead of under pillows.

Most kids in Asia throw their lower teeth on the roof while burying their upper teeth.

OPEN YOUR eyes

DON’T LET DROOPING EYELIDS ADD YEARS TO YOUR APPEARANCE

BY MIMI GREENWOOD KNIGHT

There’s a reason we refer to someone youthful as being freshfaced and “bright-eyed.” As we age, our eyelids can grow lax and fat pads can form around them, causing us to look older, tired, and even angry, sad, or uninterested. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Today’s cosmetic options make it possible to reclaim a bright-eyed look and erase years from our appearance.

BLEPHAROPLASTY

Eyelid surgery, known as blepharoplasty, can be performed on the upper or lower eyelids — or both. Blepharoplasty helps reduce excessive skin, deep lines and wrinkles around the eyes caused by aging and sun exposure, puffy, heavy, or hooded upper eyelids, bags under the eyes, and drooping lower lids that expose the white of the eyes.

SAGGING LOWER EYELIDS AND UNDER-EYE BAGS

Under-eye bags can affect your self-esteem and how others perceive you, whether you work in the public eye or simply want to appear younger and refreshed.

Lower eyelid blepharoplasty is a routine plastic surgery that reduces bags and dark circles caused by shadowing from the bags and tightens the skins to address sagging. During the procedure, a qualified plastic surgeon makes an incision inside the lower eyelids or underneath your lash lines, then extra skin and fatty tissue that has accumulated beneath your eyes is removed. Many patients — men and women alike — love this procedure because they don’t look like they’ve had work done. They just look energized and rested.

DROOPING, HOODED, PUFFY UPPER EYELIDS

If your upper eyelids sag to the point of making you look tired all the time, or if they’re hooded — a condition where the upper eyelid droops over the eye — upper eyelid blepharoplasty performed by a qualified plastic surgeon can address these problems. During the procedure, orbital fat pads are removed along with excess, droopy skin, and a small strip of muscle. The result opens up your eyes and instantly gives you a more youthful appearance.

ARE YOU A CANDIDATE FOR BLEPHAROPLASTY?

As with any type of surgery, not everyone is a good candidate for blepharoplasty. Make an appointment to consult with an experienced plastic surgeon in your area to discuss whether this procedure is right for you. The surgeon should obtain a complete medical history from you and may perform a medical workup to make sure you’re in good general health with no medical conditions that could impair post-surgery healing. If you smoke, they should advise you to quit at least a month before surgery and should talk to you about realistic expectations for the procedure. Once performed, although your eyes will continue to age, blepharoplasty results can last a lifetime, helping you look more youthful and energetic.

Nonsurgical Help for Your Eyelids

If you’re not quite ready to undergo blepharoplasty, have only mild to moderate eyelid laxity, or want to enhance your eyelid surgery, Thermage CPT (comfort pulse technology) can tighten eyelid skin, smooth the skin texture, and decease hooding. The nonsurgical, noninvasive, FDA-cleared procedure typically has no downtime, bruising, or swelling, and most patients report benefit from a single treatment.

How it Works

Thermage CPT tightens eyelids by simultaneously heating and cooling the skin with an instrument that emits radiofrequency energy to heat the collagen in the deeper layers of your skin while simultaneously protecting the top layers with a cooling spray. Heating causes collagen in the deeper skin layers to tighten and stimulates new collagen production, further enhancing the result. Afterward, most patients resume their normal activities.

Nonsurgical solutions for the lower eyelids include laser treatments and injectable dermal fillers.

TAKE CHARGE

TO FINDING THE CREDIT CARD THAT’S RIGHT FOR YOU

BY DAVID BUICE

Given the hundreds of choices currently available, choosing the right credit card can seem like an almost overwhelming task. But it really doesn’t have to be. These three steps will help you narrow your choices and find the card that works best for you.

1. Check Your Credit Score

The initial step is to check your credit score and credit report. Not all sources for checking your credit are free, but consumer credit reporting companies such as Experian and many credit card companies provide services allowing you to check your score at no cost, even if you’re not a customer.

Creditors use your FICO score in about 90% of lending decisions.

The FICO ranges are as follows:

300 to 579 – Very poor

580 to 669 – Fair

670 to 739 – Good

740 to 799 – Very good

800 to 850 – Excellent

REJECTED APPLICATION?

If your credit card application has been rejected, you still have options. Taking a few simple steps can greatly improve your chances of submitting a successful application in the near future.

Once you know your score, you can narrow your search to cards that require a credit score equal to or less than yours. Understand, however, that a good score doesn’t guarantee your application will be accepted. Lenders also consider other factors, including monthly income, housing payments, and other debts.

2. Decide on the Type of Card that Best Meets Your Needs

At this point, things can get a bit more complex, but generally, credit cards fall into one of three categories: building credit, rewards, and 0% APR (annual percentage rate).

Building credit – If you have little credit history or your FICO score falls below 669, building your credit should be your main priority. There are credit cards designed for this purpose, such as secured cards. These require a security deposit, often around $200. You’re given a credit limit equal to the deposit, and the deposit is refunded if you close the card in good standing or upgrade to a different card.

Rewards – If you have little to no debt and a good credit record, a rewards credit card can help offset the cost of purchases or travel expenses by redeeming points or miles. There are many rewards cards to choose from, offering points that can be redeemed for things like statement credits, gift cards, airfare, hotels, cruises, and various goods and services.

1. Read the Rejection Letter Carefully

Instead of throwing your rejection letter away in disappointment, read it carefully to find why you were turned down and determine the steps needed to improve your credit.

Common reasons for rejection include:

• A limited credit history

• Late payment on other debts

• Too many credit applications

• Limited income

• Too much debt

• Too young

• Reported collections

0% APR – This type of card can be helpful for getting out of debt or making large purchases. These cards charge no interest on balance transfers, new purchases, or both for a period of time. This interestfree period is often for at least a year. If you want to consolidate your debt or have a large purchase coming up, you might consider a 0% APR card and benefit from no interest charges while repaying the debt. Just be sure to pay off the balance before the introductory period ends.

3. Shop Around

Once you know your credit score and have determined your essential credit card needs, shop around for the best offers. While shopping, take note of credit card fees, such as an annual fee (not all cards have one), late payment fees, and cash advance fees.

Finally, you can submit multiple prequalification requests without damaging your credit score, and prequalification can help you find the card that’s your best choice.

2. Review Your Application

Review your application for simple errors that may have contributed to your rejection. For example, you might have listed your monthly rent as $5,000 when it’s actually $500.

3. Ask for Reconsideration

At this point, you’re at a credit crossroads, and it might be better to accept the rejection and move on. Or you may contact customer service and diplomatically plead your case. It can’t hurt, and you might talk yourself into an acceptance.

4. Consider a Secured Card

A secured card may be your best option for poor credit or no credit. You’ll have to post a deposit but using the card responsibly will help build your credit record and improve your chances of getting a higher quality card in the future.

NORTH, SOUTH, East, or West

SPRING BREAK DESTINATIONS IN EVERY DIRECTION

BY ANNETTE BROOKS

A

fter being cooped up most of the winter and feeling tired of staycations, Texans are ready to get away during spring break and spend time in the great outdoors. If you’re looking for something different than hitting the beaches in Florida or going to a typical ski resort, we’ve put together a collection of four unique destinations the whole family can enjoy.

“THE PLAYGROUND OF THE SOUTH,” BILOXI, MISSISSIPPI

With miles of beach on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, there’s a wide variety of beachfront hotels and vacation rentals to choose from. Sun and fun abound, as well as casinos and golfing. It’s never a dull moment in Biloxi, but it’s also a place where you can simply do nothing but unwind and enjoy the sand and surf.

Biloxi Beach is ideal for family-friendly activities. Pick up a picnic lunch and refreshments from one of the local restaurants, grab your sunscreen, towels, and beach toys for the kids, and enjoy a day lounging on the beach and playing in the water. Schedule a fishing charter, go kayaking, or take a boat tour. When you’re ready for a change of pace, check out the Biloxi lighthouse, a Mississippi Landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and climb the 57-step spiral staircase to take in a sweeping view of the Gulf Coast.

“COWBOY CAPITAL OF THE WORLD,” BANDERA, TEXAS

If you’re interested in something close to home, look no further than Bandera, Texas. Nestled in the heart of the Texas Hill Country on the bank of the pristine Medina River, the area is home to several dude and guest ranches where you can stay, but Bandera, population 903, is the main attraction.

With a style and personality as big as the Lone Star State, Bandera is the real deal, full of adventure and downhome western fun. Mingle with the locals downtown in the restaurants and shops. Saddle up and ride a horse through town with an opportunity to stop and shop along the way. Take the kids on a horse-drawn wagon tour of Bandera or experience chuck wagon storytelling at its finest. Lovers of western art and memorabilia won’t want to miss the Frontier Times Museum, and folks of all ages will find a treasure to take home at the old Bandera General Store, complete with wooden floors and a tin ceiling.

“ARIZONA’S

WEST COAST,” LAKE HAVASU CITY, ARIZONA

A desert oasis replete with waterfront beaches, there’s something for everyone in Lake Havasu City. Visitors enjoy everything from boating, fishing, and water sports to hiking, biking, off-roading, and dining. The city even boasts a slice of World War II history. The London Bridge — yes, that London Bridge — is located near downtown and Lake Havasu State Park. In 1967, the bridge, still bearing marks of the war, was removed from its spot over the Thames River in London and reassembled in Lake Havasu City.

Centrally located and accessible by land or boat, Rotary Community Park is a popular place to kick back. The largest public beach in Lake Havasu City includes sand volleyball courts, a skate park, and a two-mile-long walking and jogging path. And here’s a tip for Mom. While Dad takes the kids go fishing, head to the Downtown District and the waterfront shops near London Bridge for some retail therapy. Or get pampered at one of the town’s upscale day spas.

“NATURE’S

PLAYGROUND,” PAGOSA SPRINGS, COLORADO

Cradled among the rugged San Juan Mountains in Southwest Colorado, Pagosa Springs is a hidden gem. Perfect for a lower-key winter getaway, don’t forget to pack swimsuits. Swimming and relaxing in the healing waters of the natural hot springs is a must, especially in March when the weather is still cool.

When you’re not soaking in the Great Pagosa Hot Spring — listed in the “Guinness Book of World Records” as the deepest geothermal hot spring with a depth of 1,002 feet — try snowmobiling, sledding, tubing, cross country skiing, and snowshoeing. (If it’s warmer in the lower elevations, snow-based activities are nearby up on Wolf Creek Pass.) Take the family on a horse-drawn sleigh or wagon ride. Visit Treasure Falls with its 105-foot drop just 15 miles outside Pagosa Springs. And be sure to enjoy a stroll along Mainstreet in the Historic Downtown area dotted with quaint shops, galleries, and restaurants.

TIPS & TRICKS:

This is a great classic cookie recipe. If you are not a fan of salt, omit the salt for the topping.

SIMPLY sweet

QUICKLY SATISFY YOUR CHOCOLATE CRAVINGS WITH THESE DELICIOUS TREATS BY MELISSA TATE

SALTED CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES

SERVINGS: 40 COOKIES | PREP TIME: 15 MIN. | BAKE TIME: 12 MIN. | TOTAL TIME: 27 MIN.

INGREDIENTS: 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour | 1 tsp. baking soda | ½ tsp. salt (for dough) | ½ cup softened butter | ½ cup butter flavored Crisco | ¾ cup sugar | ¾ cup brown sugar | 1 tsp. vanilla extract | 2 large eggs | 2 cups chocolate chips | 1 to 2 Tbsp. coarse sea salt (for topping cookies)

DIRECTIONS: PREHEAT oven to 350°. In a small bowl, COMBINE flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. BEAT butter, butter flavored Crisco, sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla until creamy in a large mixing bowl. ADD eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. BEAT in flour mixture gradually. STIR in chocolate chips. USE a 1 Tbsp. cookie scoop or measuring spoon to drop rounds of dough onto the baking sheet. BAKE 10 to 12 minutes or until golden brown on the edges. REMOVE from oven when ready and immediately sprinkle each cookie with salt. Not too much, just a sprinkle. MOVE to a cooling rack and let sit for 5 min. Enjoy!

TIPS & TRICKS: This cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days.

SEMI-HOMEMADE

CHOCOLATE CAKE

SERVINGS: 16 SLICES | PREP TIME: 20 MIN. | COOK TIME: 24 TO 28 MIN. | TOTAL TIME: 44 TO 48 MIN.

CAKE INGREDIENTS: 1 box Devil’s Food Cake | 1 (5.9 oz.) box instant chocolate pudding mix | 1 cup sour cream | 1 cup vegetable oil | 4 eggs | ½ cup warm water CHOCOLATE BUTTERCREAM FROSTING: 9 Tbsp. butter, softened | ¾ cup cocoa | 3 ½ cups of powdered sugar may take a little less or a little more 1/3 cup milk | 1 tsp. vanilla

DIRECTIONS: PREHEAT oven to 350°. GREASE 2 nine-inch round baking pans with non-stick baking spray and set aside. STIR cake mix, pudding mix, sour cream, oil, eggs, and warm water in a large bowl or mixer. DIVIDE batter evenly into each pan. BAKE 24 to 28 minutes until cooked through. When ready, cakes should pull away from the pan slightly, and a toothpick inserted in the middle should come out clean. ALLOW to cool in pan and then turn onto a wire rack to cool completely. PREPARE the frosting. In a medium bowl, BEAT the butter. ADD cocoa and powdered sugar alternately, and a little milk as needed, beating after each addition until all is added. ADD vanilla, once all ingredients are mixed in, and mix thoroughly. FROSTING should be firm but not dry. If too dry, add a little milk and mix. If not firm enough, ADD a little powdered sugar and mix. PLACE one cake on a plate and frost completely. PLACE the second cake on the frosted cake and completely frost the entire cake.

ABOUT OUR CHEF

Melissa is a freelance food writer with a passion for hospitality and home cooked meals. Along with writing, she helps her husband run their working ranch and event venue in Rockwall, Texas. To follow her cooking and ranching adventures visit MelissaTateTX. com or find her on Instagram at @MELISSATATETX

TIPS & TRICKS:

Add marshmallows, whipped cream, peppermint sticks, or cinnamon to jazz up your homemade cocoa.

HOMEMADE HOT COCOA

SERVINGS: 46 CUPS (2 TBSP. MIX, 1 CUP MILK) | PREP TIME: 5 MIN. | COOK TIME: 2 MIN. | TOTAL TIME: 7 MIN.

INGREDIENTS: 3 ½ cups sugar | 2 ¼ cups cocoa | 1 Tbsp. salt | Milk, for serving

DIRECTIONS: COMBINE sugar, cocoa, and salt in a large bowl. WHISK to combine well, then store in an airtight container. For individual servings, POUR 1 cup whole milk into a microwave-safe mug and microwave on high just until hot. ADD 2 Tbsp. of cocoa mix and stir to dissolve. For a larger batch of cocoa, WARM the milk in a saucepan set over mediumlow heat, taking care not to let the milk boil, as it warms, STIR in 2 Tbsp. of mix for each cup of milk.

TIPS & TRICKS: Add marshmallows, whipped cream, peppermint sticks, or cinnamon to jazz up your homemade cocoa.

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COZYget

BLANKETS, MOVIES, HOT DRINKS, AND MORE FOR THE PERFECT NIGHT AT HOME

BY SYDNI ELLIS

We don’t always get snow flurries or ice storms in Texas, but the bitterly cold winds and early nights are enough to make us want to stay in all winter. Save the glammedup looks and fancy clothes for spring. Right now, we’re content to cuddle under fluffy blankets while sipping delicious hot drinks and binge-watching feel-good movies. It’s the ideal time of year to enjoy the Danish hygge trend. Hygge (pronounced “hoo-gah”) is a concept that means “creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life with good people,” according to Visit Denmark. This means conversations by candlelight, warm food withs friends, and a captivating book by the fireplace. Embrace your own version of hygge by focusing on coziness this February with these items.

Soft Blankets

Fluffy blankets are a must. To stay warm, get the L.L. Bean Wicked Cozy Heated Blanket (llbean.com), which comes in twin, full/queen, or king-sized. This ultra-plush blanket has an insulating middle layer and a bottom layer with thin, heated wires.

Calm your anxiety with a weighted blanket. The Gravity Weighted Blanket (GravityBlankets.com) is one of the most popular on the market, as it is super smooth and weighted at 15-pounds to create a hug-like feeling when you’re underneath.

Cozy Candles

Turn the lights down low and set the mood with warm candles. The flickering glow plus the fragrant scent is sure to help you relax. Any candle will do, but Homesick candles (HomesickCandles.com) are designed to find the perfect scent combinations to remind you of a heartfelt memory or moment in time. For a night alone, try Book Club , featuring top notes of orange and nutmeg, mid notes of cinnamon and sandalwood, and base notes of vanilla, balsam, and amber. For a more romantic scent, go with Date Night featuring top notes of fig, cashmere, and red currant, mid notes of sandalwood and lemon, and base notes of lily, patchouli, and musk. Each natural soy wax blend candle is non-toxic and has a burn time of 60 to 80 hours.

Savory Snacks and Warm Drinks

Make popcorn, then top it with one of five savory seasonings in the Urban Accents Movie Night Popcorn Set (amazon.com). This flavorful set comes with three kinds of popcorn kernels as well as white cheddar, sweet & salty kettle corn, chili lime, buttery caramel, and sizzling sriracha seasonings. Or warm things up with TX Bourbon’s kicked-up fireside classic TX Smore cocktail recipe at frdistilling.com.

Movies to Stream

There’s just one thing left to do — pick a movie to stream. Anything nostalgic, romantic, action-packed, or captivating will do, from the latest rom-com streaming on Netflix to a Lord of the Rings marathon. A few classic movies set in February would be fun to watch as well. Check out 1993’s Groundhog Day , Sleepless in Seattle , or 2010’s Valentine’s Day . If it makes you laugh, remember good times, or keep you entertained, it’s the perfect cozy winter movie.