Living Magazine February 2020 by Arlington Living Magazine

THE FUTURE OF SURGERY IS NOW

The Pioneering Surgeons of Surgical Associates of Mansfield

THERE’S A STORY BEHIND EVERY SMILE

Everyone wants to have a smile they feel good about, no matter their age, gender, profession, or circumstance.

Understanding that simple fact has allowed Dr. Sandi Hamm to provide not only exceptional results, but also a pleasing experience.

So whatever the story may be... Dr. Sandi Hamm would like to be a part of yours.

Dr. Sandi Hamm Offers:

• Teeth Whitening (At Home or In Office)

• Porcelain Veneers/Crowns

• Smile Makeovers

• Snoring Relief

• Check up and Hygiene Care

• www.DrSandiHamm.com • White Fillings/Cosmetic • Bonding • Invisalign (Invisible Braces) • Dental Implant Restorations

Kristin Bradford Patient of Dr. Sandi Hamm

Work with a designer for free to help build the interior of your dreams.

• Embarrassed about your interiors?

• No time to try to decorate on your own?

• Frustrated and don’t know where to start?

• Tired of trying to do it yourself with disappointing results?

• Worried about the cost?

You know how people love the look of a model home, but they can never quite pull off the look themselves?

We’ve helped thousands of busy people create amazing interiors with a simple process that saves them time and wows all their friends.

Lisa Landry, President

LEG/ANKLE SWELLING

SKIN DARKENING

LEG THROBBING/ACHING

VARICOSE VEINS

RESTLESS LEGS

LEG

NEUROPATHY

SKIN

ITCHING/BURNING NIGHT CRAMPS

FULL AND HALF DAY SPA DAY PACKAGES FOR YOUR VALENTINE!

CHERISH

THE PERFECT PACKAGE FOR DEEP RELAXATION!

TREAT YOURSELF TO A 50 MINUTE SWEDISH MASSAGE. COMPLETE YOUR EXPERIENCE WITH A SIGNATURE BLOWOUT AND LUXURIOUS K WATER TREATMENT. ~151

ADORE

START YOUR DAY WITH FLUFFY ROBES AND SPA SHOES TO BEGIN YOUR RELAXATION! BEGIN WITH A 50 MINUTE SWEDISH MASSAGE AND BLUE MINT SCALP MASSAGE. OUR AVANTE SPA FACIAL WILL GIVE YOUR SKIN A REFRESHING GLOW. COMPLETE YOUR DAY IN OUR PEDI PARLOUR WITH A RELAXING SPA PEDICURE. ~259

IT WAS ALWAYS YOU THE COMPLETE PAMPERING PACKAGE! FALL IN LOVE WITH THE SWEET SCENT OF STRAWBERRY DURING YOUR FULL BODY SCRUB. DETOX, FIRM, AND TONE YOUR SKIN WITH A BODY WRAP. INDULGE IN RELAXATION WITH A 50 MINUTE SWEDISH MASSAGE AND AVANTE SPA FACIAL. COMPLETE YOUR PAMPERED DAY WITH OUR POPULAR SPA PEDICURE. ~415

OUR LOVE STORY

FLUFFY ROBES AND AN ENVIRONMENT OF RELAXATION IS THE BEGINNING OF THIS ULTIMATE ESCAPE FOR TWO. TAKE DELIGHT IN A COUPLES 110 MINUTE SWEDISH MASSAGE, FOLLOWED WITH A ROMANTIC TIME IN OUR RAIN SHOWER. ENJOY A DELICIOUS LUNCH, WITH CHOCOLATE COVERED STRAWBERRIES AND SPARKLING BEVERAGES. LOOK AND FEEL RELAXED WITH AVANTÉ SPA FACIALS FOR TWO. COMPLETE YOUR SUBLIME EXPERIENCE WITH SIDE-BY-SIDE SPA PEDICURES. ~668

letter from the publisher

“Love is patient and kind. Love does not envy or boast. It is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way. It is not irritable or resentful. It does not rejoice at wrongdoing but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never ends.”

1 CORINTHIANS 13:4-8

1 Corinthians 13:1 says, “If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal.” Isn’t it great to have a month each year to be intentional about love? Here’s my Valentine’s challenge to you. Start right now looking for ways to show God’s love—not just to your significant other, although I hope you’ll do that—but to those He places in your path. Give your favorite barista a generous tip. Thank that police officer you pass for the service they provide. Pay someone’s toll or feed their meter. Bring your neighbors trash cans up from the curb. You’ll be amazed how the love you expend— even anonymously—will come back to you and brighten your own day.

MISTY DANIELS, OWNER/PUBLISHER

mdaniels@livingmagazine.net

682-556-1246

publishing

PUBLISHER

Misty Daniels

EDITOR Brandon Daiker production

ART DIRECTOR Kelsey Higham

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Van Ngo, Amelia Callies

CLIENT SERVICES MANAGERS Jenefer Grady administration

SENIOR ADMINISTRATOR Todd Collom, Don Beene

OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR Teresa May

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Mary Phaneuf

advertising/marketing/sales

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Scott Daniels sdaniels@livingmagazine.net

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Kami Anderson, kanderson@livingmagazine.net

DIRECTOR OF BRAND MARKETING Bruce Perlstein

SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORM MANAGEMENT Lindsay Clark, lclark@livingmagazine.net

DIGITAL MARKETING SPECIALIST Kat Curling

DIGITAL MARKETING INTERN Julianna Beno

PRINT SUPPORT SPECIALIST Lisa Austin

contribution

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS

Lisa Landry, Anna Charles, LaRue

Novick, Meredith Knight

PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTORS

Lauren Medean, Diana Raines community magazine group

NORTH TEXAS MARKETS

Arlington/Mansfield/Grand Prairie

Rockwall/Rowlett/Heath/Forney

Frisco/Plano

McKinney/Allen/Fairview

Celina/Prosper

Southlake/Westlake/Trophy Club/ Colleyville/Grapevine

Coppell/North Irving

Keller/North Richland Hills

N. Richardson/Murphy/Sachse/Wylie Flower Mound/Highland Village/Argyle

SOUTH TEXAS MARKETS

The Woodlands/Shenandoah/ Magnolia

Spring/Champions

Cy-Fair

Fort Bend

Katy / Fulshear

Memorial

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letters from OUR MAYORS

mayor DAVID COOK MANSFIELD

Mansﬁeld residents are once again taking the challenge to be healthier, and there are two community initiatives that are helping make that happen.

We’re participating again in the IT’S TIME TEXAS Community Challenge, sponsored by Texas grocer H-E-B. The eight-week competition is designed to mobilize a city and its residents, schools, businesses and organizations and toward the goal of transforming the community’s health. Residents are registering at www.ittcommunitychallenge.com and logging all their activities, from daily walks on the linear trail to healthy meals.

Being healthy is also a goal of the Mansﬁeld Area Chamber of Commerce and their “Healthy This Way” program. With a ﬁve-year plan as a guide, the

Chamber, with its partners at the City and MISD, is committed to helping our community live healthier lives. Last year the focus was on exercise and activity. The attention this year is on health eating.

The New Year is a great time to set goals and dedicate you and your family to living your best life and being healthy is a big part of that. Register for the ITT Community Challenge and check out all the great information at www.healthythisway.com.

mayor RON JENSEN GRAND PRAIRIE

PlayGrand Adventures is now open! This amazing park is a free, all-access, destination playground for children and adults of all abilities. The park is located at 2985 Epic Place, at the corner of Warrior Trail and Epic Place. If you are familiar with the area, PlayGrand is between the Prairie Paws Animal Shelter and The Summit basically. The playground encourages learning, cognitive/motor skill development, sensory engagement, social interaction, and physical activity for children and families—all in a vibrantly colorful, multi-texture environment. Now open are the Adventure Hill (high intensity climbing, swinging, and spinning) and Adventure Zone (fun physical challenges in varying heights).

Adventure Zone – provides the highest-intensity play for all ability levels, featuring vibrant and whimsical play

equipment and a wide variety of play opportunities, such as climbing, swinging and spinning. Abundant shade and social areas are spaced throughout. This zone includes a play area speciﬁcally designed for toddlers, with separated activities on a miniature scale.

Adventure Hill – provides visitors of all abilities the opportunity to experience varying heights and physical challenges at new levels. The playground will accommodate spinning, sliding, climbing and learning activities in ways traditional playgrounds cannot oﬀer. Challenging opportunities expand as one climbs the Hill.

Come enjoy the park and Live Life Grand with us,

You never have to look far in The American Dream City to ﬁnd an uplifting story. Case in point—the recent partnership between the U.S. Marine Corps and Esports Stadium Arlington to reward local students for good grades. Between January 17 and April 17, 2020, high school and college students who bring a 2020 transcript or report card to Esports Stadium Arlington are eligible for a free hour of gameplay for each “A” they received.

8th Marine Corps District Spokesperson Captain Michael Maggitti explained the program like this, “All gamers, regardless of platform or genre, must face adversity and overcome challenges to succeed. Like Marines, there are battles won both as a team and as an individual that require intellect, resolve and the will to win." Maggitti says they also use this opportunity to

connect with students and explain the opportunities that come with being a Marine.

We don’t say it often enough. Thank you, Arlington Tomorrow Foundation, for contributing nearly $1.6 million through 29 grants in 2019 to enhance city services and support a variety of charities around the community. Grants included $50,000 for the Stay the Course Program at Tarrant County College Southeast, $100,000 to refresh the hospice facility at Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital, and many smaller grants. Thank you for all you do to increase access to healthcare, food, and aﬀordable housing, help educate our youth, and enhance our city's cultural and recreational opportunities.

mayor JEFF WILLIAMS ARLINGTON

ONGOING

ARLINGTON MUSIC HALL

Arlington

Come check out some amazing performances that are scheduled! Visit our website for information. 224 N. Center St.

ARLINGTONMUSICHALL.NET

NOW

SHOW YOUR YARD SOME LOVE

Arlington Water Utilities

Arlington residents can receive a free sprinkler gauge to measure the output of their irrigation system, while supplies last:

River Legacy Living Science Center - 703 NW Green Oaks Blvd.

Arlington Water Utilities - 101 W. Abram St. or 1101 SW Green Oaks Blvd.

Arlington Public Library Lake Arl. Branch4000 W. Green Oaks Blvd.

FEBRUARY 1 - 29

YOUTH SPORTS REGISTRATION

Arlington Parks and Recreation

Outdoor Soccer, Girls Coach Pitch, Girls Softball, T-Ball, Modified Coach Pitch, Coach Pitch, Kid Pitch. Register online today! Visit naturallyfun.org for information.

COAPAR.SILPLAY.COM

FEBRUARY 8

FARMER’S MARKET POP-UP

Grand Prairie

Join us for a small sampling of your favorite Grand Prairie Farmers Market vendors at our

Winter Pop Up Markets located inside The Epic! Featured will be a few of our artisan craft and food vendors bringing you a thumbnail look at what we will offer at the Grand Prairie Farmers Market beginning in April. 8:30am-12pm. 2960 Epic Place.

FEBRUARY 8 AND 22

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) 10:30am-3:30pm.

FEBRUARY 16

SWEETHEART SWIM

Arlington Parks and Recreation

Buy one get one half of admission. Hugh Smith Indoor Pool, 1815 New York Ave. For information call 817-275-0513.

FEBRUARY 19

2020 AGING WELL EXPO

Arlington

Start your year right and visit our health and wellness vendors, fitness demonstrations, educational presentations, health screening and more! 9am-2pm. Esports Stadium Arlington & Expo Center, 1200 Ballpark Way. Attendees must pre-register by February 5 for free lunch. Call 817-277-8091 or 817-275-1351 or visit our website.

BIT.LY/AGINGWELLEXPO

February 7

VALENTINES PARTY

Arlington Parks and Recreation

Come and enjoy chocolate dipped snacks, punch, games and so much more! This event is free, but participants must pre-register. Party time is 2:00pm-3:30pm. Call 817-2778091. Eunice Activity Center, 1000 Eunice St.

FEBRUARY 22

BARK RANGER

Mansfield

Bring your tail wagging best friend to our new certification classes! We will create a memory keepsake, talk about outdoor safety for pets and more. You and your pet will receive a certificate, honorary Bark Ranger dog tag, collapsible food bowl, and puppy treats. All dogs must be on a fixed leash. 1 dog per registered adult. Children may attend with registered adult. Current rabies certificate must be brought to each class. Don’t have a dog? You can participate with a shelter dog! Pre-registration required.

MANSFIELDTEXAS.GOV/CALENDAR. ASPX?EID-1065

FEBRUARY 28-29

ESPORTS PARENTS NIGHT OUT & LOCK IN

Arlington Parks and Recreation

Need some time for yourselves? Drop your kids off and have a night just for you. Participants ages 5-13 will enjoy fun night that includes a pizza dinner, activities, video games and crafts. We will also be shuttling to the new E Sports Arena. $40/person. 6:30pm8:00am. Participants must be picked up before 8am on Saturday morning. Cliff Nelson Rec Center, 4600 W. Bardin.

NATURALLYFUN.ORG

see more events in your area on LIVINGMAGAZINE.NET

FEBRUARY

2/13

2/15

2/20

2/21

2/22

2/28

UPCOMING EVENTS

TROLLS LIVE!

Friday, February 7 - Sunday, February 9 (various times)

The Theatre at Grand Prairie

Get ready for another hair-raising adventure when Poppy, Branch and their friends come to life on-stage in Trolls LIVE!, their first ever live tour! This is one Trolls party you won’t want to miss!

STRAY KIDS WORLD TOUR DISTRICT 9: UNLOCK IN DALLAS

Sunday, February 2 at 7:30PM

The Theatre at Grand Prairie

BJ THOMAS

Thursday, February 6 at 7:30PM Arlington Music Hall

THE DROP: ZILLAMATIC

Every Saturday at 11PM Texas Live!

THE LETTERMEN

Friday, February 7 at 8PM Arlington Music Hall

KENNY “BABYFACE” EDMONDS

Saturday, February 15 at 8PM

The Theatre at Grand Prairie

CONNIE SMITH

Saturday, February 15 at 2PM Arlington Music Hall

#IMOMSOHARD MOM’S NIGHT OUT

Thursday, February 20 at 8PM

The Theatre at Grand Prairie

BEATLEMANIA64 - A TRIBUTE TO THE BEATLES

Thursday, February 20 at 7:30PM Arlington Music Hall

CHRIS TUCKER

Saturday, February 29 at 8 PM

The Theatre at Grand Prairie

MILLER LITE BLOCK PARTY - STONEY LARUE

Saturday, February 29 at 7:30PM Texas Live!

COMING TO THEATERS

FEBRUARY 21 // THE CALL OF THE WILD HARRISON FORD DIR. CHRIS SANDERS (LILO & STITCH)

Harrison Ford, now 77 years of age and sporting extra voluminous facial hair, looks so natural in the role of grizzled outdoorsman John Thornton in this big-budget adaptation of the classic Jack London novel that it’s easy to forget the story is actually mostly about the dog he travels with.

THIS MONTH IN MOVIE HISTORY

FEBRUARY 12, 1993 // GROUNDHOG DAY

BILL MURRAY, ANDIE MACDOWELL DIR. HAROLD RAMIS (CADDYSHACK)

It’s never a bad time to rewatch, or rerewatch, or rererewatch weatherman Phil Connors (Murray) relive the same day over and over for dozens of years in what is possibly the most perfectly written comedy of all time— the rare film that becomes even better the more you see it and gets even funnier as things turn more dire and desperate for our antihero.

OUR BOOK PICK

FEBRUARY 18 // FIGHTING FOR SPACE

BY AMY SHIRA TEITEL

Spaceflight historian Amy Shira Teitel tells the riveting story of the female pilots who each dreamed of being the first American woman in space. This dual biography of trailblazers Jackie Cochran and Jerrie Cobb presents two fascinating and fearless women in all their glory and grit, using their stories as guides through the shifting social, political, and technical landscape of the time.

(2020), Walt Disney Pictures/20th Century Fox. Movie poster from Groundhog Day (1993), Columbia Pictures. Book cover

Shira Teitel (2020), Grand Central Publishing, with description excerpt

COURTESY: NHL.COM, PHOTOS: TWITTER.COM/DALLASSTARS,

DALLAS HOSTS 2020 WINTER

CLASSIC AT COTTON BOWL

ANNUAL OUTDOOR PRO HOCKEY GAME 2ND MOST ATTENDED IN NHL HISTORY

THE DALLAS STARS HOSTED (AND DEFEATED) the Nashville Predators at the Cotton Bowl on New Year’s Day for the annual NHL Winter Classic, the pro hockey league’s signature outdoor hockey game.

The sell-out crowd of 85,630 people packed the Cotton Bowl, which was set up to accommodate a full sized hockey rink in the middle of the field. Musical artists Midland, Jake Hoot, and Dan + Shay performed before and during the game, with a special tribute to the State Fair of Texas featuring the SMU Mustangs and Texas A&M Aggies dance teams and a rodeo being held during the second intermission.

It was the first outdoor hockey game for both teams. Dallas unveiled special Winter Classic jerseys for the occasion, which sold out nearly immediately, according to a statement from the team. Dallas’ win kept the Stars competitive in the Western Conference, extending their winning streak to three, and only a handful of points short of leading the league.

The special Cotton Bowl configuration was also used after the game on January 2-5 to host the Lone Star Invitational Cotton Bowl Edition, a USA Hockey-sanctioned youth/ adult hockey tournament featuring teams throughout the United States and Canada.

“If I was out there watching that game or I was watching this on television I would say, ‘That was awesome, man,’” said Stars coach Rick Bowness to NHL.com. “The whole thing was awesome.”

“The building was great, the fans, and the environment,” said Nashville coach Peter Laviolette. “Hockey down in Texas and a couple of southern teams, to fill the building the way we did, it was an incredible day.”

who’s your DADDY?

BY MIMI GREENWOOD KNIGHT

When I was a kid growing up, any time I left the house my father said the same thing. “Remember you’re a Greenwood.” His meaning was clear.

“As you go, so goes our family’s reputation. Guard it!”

Any time one of my eleven brothers and sisters or I started out the door on a date, to school, to church, to a friend’s house, or to our part-time jobs, that one sentence told us our daddy expected us to remember who we were—and whose we were—and to act accordingly. To remember that everything we did, every decision we made, every word we uttered was a reflection on him, our mother, and the rest of the family. For me it was a point well taken.

More than once in high school or college, when I was tempted to do something reckless (and worry about the consequences later), I’d hear my daddy’s words. “Remember you’re a Greenwood.” It was like having him there, looking over my shoulder—not waiting to reprimand me if I made the wrong choice, but expecting to be proud of me when I made the right one.

When I became a Christian, my dad had been dead almost 20 years. I suppose that’s why the name for God I relate to most is “Abba,” which translates to “Daddy.” Having grown up with a father who was loving but could be tough when he needed to be, it’s easy for me to think of my Heavenly Father the same way. I loved my dad. I had a great time with my dad. But—make no mistake—I had a proper fear of my dad when I needed to. At 54 with four kids of my own, I still need an Abba I can both love and fear as much as I ever have.

These days, as I walk out into the world to go to work, the grocery store, to volunteer at my kids’ school, or headed anywhere else, I need to remember that the things I say and do, the decisions I make, and the

words I utter represent God and the rest of His family. Pretty big responsibility, huh?

I heard a preacher say once, “Too many people don’t want to be a Christian because of the Christians they’ve known.” It broke my heart to wonder, “Have I ever done anything to make Christianity look so unappealing that someone wouldn’t want any part of it?” I sure hope not. But it’s something every child of God should reflect upon.

The word Christian, when literally translated, means “Little Jesus.” 1 John 2:6 tells us, “Whoever says he abides in Him ought to walk in the same way in which He walked.” I have to ask myself, when nonbelievers look at me, listen to my words, and witness my lifestyle and attitudes, do they see a “Little Jesus?” Do they see love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control, as Paul spells out in Galatians 5:22? Do they see me loving the unlovely (Matthew 5:46-48), forgiving those who wrong me (Luke 23:34), serving freely as Jesus did (John 13:14), and loving as freely He loved (John 15:12)? Do I daily give myself as “a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God” (Ephesians 5:1-2) as He did? Am I “gentle and lowly in heart” (Matthew 11:29) as He was?

For me it helps to remember that just as my earthly father watched over me not waiting for me to make a wrong choice but empowering me to make a right one, my heavenly Father stands beside me now, not waiting to condemn me when I mess up (which I do often enough) but giving me the strength and wisdom to make the right choices and live according to His perfect plan for me. This is our challenge as Christians as we live our lives day to day, as we work, play, shop, parent, wait in line at the DMV, and drive in rush hour traffic. Remember you’re a Christian and the world is watching to see what being a child of our Heavenly Father really means.

In his groundbreaking book, Visioneering, author Andy Stanley wrote, “Dreamers dream about things being different. Visionaries envision themselves making a difference.” Drs. Gary Alexander, Jeremy Parcells, Joshua Trussell, and Andrew Standerwick are just such visionaries—surgeons who aren’t content performing surgery the way it’s always been done but rather looking toward how they can do it better for their patients at Surgical Associates of Mansfield.

For them, that’s meant consistently leading the way with the latest, least-invasive surgical procedures to optimize their patients’ outcomes and shorten their recovery times, while offering them less scarring, less risk of infection, and much less trauma to areas surrounding their surgery site. The Surgical Associates team were some of the first to offer robot-assisted surgery and other minimally invasive surgeries to the Metroplex and are committed to pioneering the next generation of innovative, evidence-based surgical procedures right here in Tarrant County.

REFLUX SURGERY

Millions of Americans suffer from acid reflux disease. Also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), it can often be treated with over-the-counter medications and lifestyle changes. However, as more and more side effects from long term use of these medications become known, surgery is sometimes the best option for permanent relief. With the establishment of the Methodist Reflux Center, these surgeons provide a multispecialty, one-stop resource to solving your heartburn symptoms. Surgical Associates has helped hundreds of patients suffering with GERD, heartburn, or any other type of reflux condition with minimally invasive surgical procedures including:

• Robotic hiatal/paraesophageal hernia repair

• Robotic fundoplication

• Endoscopic fundoplication (transoral incisionless fundoplication)

• Robotic LINX procedure

Call (682)-518-8619 and schedule an appointment to determine which treatment option is best for you.

BARIATRICS WEIGHT-LOSS SURGERY

Obesity is the number one health concern in the US today impacting self-esteem, relationships, quality of life, and increases the risk of obesity-related illnesses. One solution is bariatric surgery which assists in weight loss by restricting the amount of food the stomach can hold, resulting in decreased absorption of calories.

When Methodist Mansfield was searching for highly qualified surgeons to establish a weight loss center, they approached the surgeons at Surgical Associates. Since that time, they’ve performed hundreds of successful bariatric surgeries including:

• Gastric Bypass

• Sleeve Gastrectomy

• Duodenal Switch

• Revision surgery, including removal of lap bands and/or conversion to a different bariatric surgery

• Gastric Balloon Weight Loss System

In order to determine if you’re a candidate for bariatric surgery, Surgical Associates physicians will conduct a thorough evaluation to better the chances of a successful outcome and ensure you’re mentally, emotionally, and physically prepared for life after surgery. Their

multidisciplinary approach includes a surgical evaluation, as well as medical, psychological, and nutritional evaluation and follow-up after surgery.

HERNIA SURGERY

Millions of Americans suffer with abdominal wall hernias. From small belly button and groin hernias to large basketball-sized incisional hernias, Surgical Associates offers next-generation abdominal wall reconstruction with minimally invasive da Vinci Robotic surgery approaches for hernias. The robot-assisted surgery allows them to repair hernias through a series of tiny incisions, rather than a large open incision. While the surgeon remains in control, the technology provides a 3D HD view inside the body, enhancing vision, precision, and control thereby improving surgical outcomes. For their patient, this has meant greatly reduced downtime—from the traditional 7 to 20 days to an astounding two to three days—with infection rates of close to zero.

Call (682) 518-8619 and schedule an appointment to determine which type of hernia you’re dealing with and the best treatment path for you.

BENEFITS OF ROBOTIC SURGERY

Robot-assisted surgery allows surgeons to see and perform complex maneuvers with much less trauma to the body offering patients less pain, less bleeding, less risk of infection, and less downtime after surgery.

ANDREW STANDERWICK, MD

JEREMY PARCELLS, MD

JOSHUA TRUSSELL, MD

GARY ALEXANDER, MD

A CHANGE

What does it really mean to grow?

By Christi Blevins

Have you noticed that time seems to be speeding by as you age? Sometimes life can feel like it’s a scene in an old movie, represented by a calendar rapidly flipping through the months to show the passage of time. To quote the titular Doctor of BBC’s Doctor Who fame, time is not linear, it’s “a big ball of wibbly-wobbly, timey wimey stuff.”

TIME FLIES

As a child, counting down the days until your birthday is like watching a particularly slow-moving sloth run a marathon. The anticipation is palpable. As an adult, that seedling you planted when you moved into your home is now a towering tree threatening to fall through your roof if you don’t have it trimmed before the next big storm. How did this happen?

Studies have linked this change in the perception of time to the breakdown of developmental periods. As a child, adolescent, or young adult, life is a series of firsts—first steps, first day of school, first job, first kiss… every day is an adventure. Eventually, life can mellow into a series of routines. Many of us settle down, buy a house, have kids of our own, and go to the same jobs for years on end. While our own childhoods seemed to move at a glacial pace, our children appear to grow and change in the blink of an eye. Even the most frazzled parent can tell you that the “days are long, but the years are short.”

For enlightenment, let’s turn to the great wordsmith and understander of growth and change, Dr. Seuss, who wrote, “How did it get so late so soon? It’s night before it’s afternoon. December is here before it’s June. My goodness how the time has flewn. How did it get so late so soon?”

A CHANGE OF PACE

The good news is that you aren’t stuck in a wormhole. If you want to slow down your perception of time in an ever-changing world, the solution is fairly basic. Growth is about embracing—and sometimes, about forcing—change. As a child, you cannot help but grow. As an adult, it’s easy for personal growth to stagnate in one area as an exciting new part of life opens. Even without a shiny fresh slice of life, growth can slow over time.

When someone first starts working out, it’s easier to build muscle than after twenty years in the gym. In the first months of learning to touch type, it’s normal to grow exponentially faster quickly. Over time, people’s typing stops improving as the brain recognizes an acceptable level of competence and decides it’s no longer worth the effort to keep developing. The same is true for every aspect of life. “Good enough” becomes good enough.

Sometimes, growth is to change. Sometimes, growth is to embrace what is changing. But in all cases, growth involves change. Each moment arises and passes, some moments longer than others. To grow, after the easy wins and unavoidable progress of aging, you must be brave enough to be bad at something new.

THE HEART OF The Matter

FEBRUARY IS THE TIME WE TAKE CARDIAC HEALTH TO HEART

BY KIMBERLY AXTELL

February is the month of love, the color red, romance, chocolate, and all things hearts—and it also happens to be American Heart Month. Yes, it’s time to think about the ole ticker, the very muscle that transports nutrients, oxygen, and hormones throughout your body, and keeps you alive!

Though heart health is now recognized as a top health priority, it wasn’t always this way. Historically, many people would go days, months, or years without thinking about the importance of the heart. For the critical muscle to register on most people’s radar it took drastic action—getting it its very own month.

Let’s jump back in time to the year 1963. More than half of U.S. deaths are due to cardiovascular disease (such as heart attack and stroke). To create awareness, President Lyndon B. Johnson proclaims February “American Heart Month.” Although having a defined heart month brings attention to the disease, it still doesn’t often register as a concern for women. As late as the early 2000s, heart problems are often considered a “men’s disease.” The word heart attack usually carries the stigma of an overweight, middleaged man on the floor holding his chest.

At the time, the biggest health concern for women was breast cancer. What ladies may not have realized was that heart disease was their greatest risk, claiming the lives of one in three women. Monumental action had to occur for not just some but all Americans to truly recognize the importance of heart health.

BIRTH OF THE RED DRESS

In 2002, the federal government launched “The Heart Truth.” The national campaign increased awareness among women about their risk of heart disease. This later led to the creation of the Red Dress symbol to represent women’s heart health. The sassy symbol stuck and skyrocketed heart disease awareness. As of 2020, nearly everyone has jumped on the bandwagon, from major corporations to celebrities.

The heart was finally put center stage, and it’s even gotten a fashion show in its honor. Every February, celebs put on a slinky red gown and strut the runway for the Heart Truth Red Dress Fashion Show—not to mention hundreds of heart ball events that are held across the country, many in partnership with the American Heart Association.

LIVE A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE!

Heart disease is still the number one killer (one in five deaths). And one in every four women will die from the condition as well. But there is good news. Heart disease often can be prevented by making healthy lifestyle changes. Aim for a nutrient-rich diet, loaded with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Exercise daily to maintain a healthy weight. And most importantly, stop smoking.

LET’S GO RED

To create awareness, encourage a “Go Red” day at your job, school, or in the community. If you own a red dress, consider getting some use out of it for the day. Together we can raise heart health awareness!

A CLOSER LOOK At Heart Health

WHAT IS HEART DISEASE? HEART OR CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE OCCURS WHEN BLOOD VESSELS CONSTRICT OR BECOME COMPLETELY BLOCKED. WHEN BLOOD TO THE HEART IS OBSTRUCTED A HEART ATTACK WILL OCCUR.

KNOW WHAT TO WATCH FOR. While heart attacks can strike suddenly, often people will experience symptoms hours, days, or weeks leading up to the attack. Red flags should go up if you’re experiencing tightness, pressure, or aching pain in your chest that travels to the jaw, neck, and arms—seek medical attention ASAP. Shortness of breath, fatigue, cold sweats, indigestion and heartburn can also be signs of an oncoming heart attack. Heart disease symptoms vary greatly between women and men. Women often experience fatigue, nausea, and shortness of breath. The signs are frequently overlooked as flu or even tiredness. Men on the other hand typically suffer from pain on the left side of their chest along with pain in their arm, neck, and jaw.

KEEP HORMONES IN CHECK. Out of whack hormones put you at risk for heart disease. Be sure to have your annual physical exam and blood work to ensure

everything is working properly. If heart disease runs in your family opt for a yearly EKG.

BE HEART HEALTHY.

Move more! Aim for 15 to 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each day such as walking, running, or biking. All it takes is simple tweaks to your daily routine. Consider jump-starting your morning by walking the dog. Opt to take the stairs at work instead of the elevator. Your heart will thank you as it becomes more efficient at pumping blood throughout your body.

GET CREATIVE WITH FLAVOR. For starters, toss the salt and skip those TV dinners. Prepackaged and processed food tends to be high in sodium. Put on your chef hat on and start cooking at home. This allows you to know exactly what’s in your food. To achieve savory flavors utilize fresh herbs, spices, and lemons. You won’t even miss the salt!

Heart Disease? Not me!

February is National Heart Awareness Month. Are you aware that heart disease is the #1 killer of both men and women?

Most people have a picture of Sanford and Son’s Redd Foxx gripping his chest screaming “The big one is coming”. However symptoms such as shortness of breath, easy fatigue, lightheaded spells, irregular heart beats or just a generalized sense of I can’t do what I used to can all be the signs of heart disease.

If you have any of these symptoms, call Havard Heart to set up your cardiac evaluation. Even if everything checks out fine, we can then help lead you on the path to lifelong heart health.

When in doubt, let’s check it out!

Steven Havard, MD • LaTasha Vines, CNP, APRN

HOLD Fast

BONE STIMULATION TECH HELPS MEND FRACTURES

BY ANNETTE BROOKS

Bones are remarkable organs in that they have the capacity to regenerate. We usually expect a typical fracture to heal in around six weeks, and then assume we’ll be almost or as good as new.

Yet according to the National Institutes of Health, nearly five percent of fractures fail to heal without special intervention. It’s called nonunion, a serious complication that may occur when a fracture moves too much, has a poor blood supply, or gets infected. Nonunion most commonly occurs in the ankle and foot bones, the upper extremities (fingers, wrist, forearm, elbows, shoulders), and knees. Risk factors include age, certain medications and chronic health conditions, poor nutrition, and tobacco use. A nonunion or a delayed union often requires a surgical solution, but depending on your case, a noninvasive, nonsurgical bone stimulation can be a viable alternative.

My experience with bone stimulation occurred after fracturing my foot. Having had past fractures that healed well, including a couple of severe ones, nonunion didn’t cross my mind. Even when my doctor mentioned it could be a possibility due to the location of the fracture, I thought, “No way. My bones heal like a champ!”

After three or four months with little to no healing, suddenly nonunion was front and center in my mind, and frankly, it scared me. What if I never healed and could never walk normally again? I was given a choice of surgery or bone stimulation. The opportunity to avoid surgery was compelling, so I opted for bone stimulation and hoped it would work. I learned that bone stimulation involves using a device placed on the skin at the fracture site. It emits low-level ultrasonic or pulsed electromagnetic waves that stimulate healing. The technology I used emitted safe, painless ultrasound waves to activate cells near the site of the break. By stimulating my body’s natural healing process, the small, lightweight, easy-to-use device helped my fracture mend over several weeks. It was easy to remember to use for 20 minutes daily.

Although bone stimulation isn’t appropriate for all nonunion or delayed union cases, and it isn’t a guarantee of healing, it sure helped me. Every time I go for a walk or a hike, I am thankful for the miracles of modern medicine and the advanced technology that helped me recover completely while avoiding surgery.

Desaray Muma, Baxter e Dog, Donna Smiedt,

Michael Muñoz

• 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

DR. JOHN BAUER

dressed—a facial or light chemical peel before an event or a massage and body wrap when I was overstressed.

MEDSPA

Confidential

WHY I BECAME A BELIEVER

BY ANNETTE BROOKS

Looking good makes you feel good. Sure, you’ve heard this before, and it probably sounds a little cliché, but it’s true. When you’re happy with your appearance it ignites an inner spark. You feel more confident, prettier, sexier, and more alive. I know this now from my own experience, but it took a while to get there.

Hair in the wrong places led me to my first medspa appointment in my mid-20s. Tired of waxing and stubble, I saw a laser hair reduction special at a local medspa and decided to go for it. Ecstatic with the results, medspas went from being barely on my radar to becoming places to go when something needs to be ad -

As time marched on I began to notice the dreaded first signs of aging—like fine lines and wrinkles—but at first, what really bugged me the most were the tiny broken capillaries on my chin and around my nose. (Of Irish and Scottish decent, I’m prone to facial redness and rosacea.) The aesthetician recommended IPL (intense pulsed light), and after two treatments, “voila!” and these imperfections vanished. Later I opted for laser skin resurfacing. I loved the results and happily soaked in the compliments. “Your skin looks like velvet!” “You look so rested.” “Don’t you ever age?” “You must have good genes!”

Still, I was inexplicably stuck to the notion that medspas were for occasional fixes versus routine care. Then one Valentine’s Day, at my personal request, I received a generous medspa gift certificate and began going regularly. As I became a full-fledged medspa believer, I also came to believe that it’s alright to regularly do things for myself and my appearance beyond going to the hair salon and getting mani/pedis.

After years of trying to find all the reasons why I didn’t need or deserve routine medspa treatments, like that I should spend the money on my daughter instead or should devote the extra time to work or family, now I look forward to my appointments. In fact, I fiercely protect this “me time.” I see my aesthetician every three to four weeks and the physician who does the injectables every few months. With this team by my side, I walk with a lighter spring in my step and a glow in my heart not out of vanity, but because I am practicing self-love and self-care. And I happen to look great doing it!

Unlocked

HOW HAIR LOSS WORKS AND WHAT YOU CAN DO ABOUT IT

BY MELISSA CHIANG, MD, FAAD BOARD CERTIFIED DERMATOLOGIST, SPRING TX

Abeautiful, thick, shiny head of hair signals youth, vitality, and social standing—and the numbers show that Texans in particular are willing to spend on their hair. A recent survey by LookFantastic.com found that women in Texas ranked third, behind California and Florida, for “most expensive” hair, spending $120 per month on hair care.

A LITTLE BACKGROUND

The average person is born with 100,000 to 150,000 hair follicles on the scalp. This number is pre-set by genetics and cannot be increased. The volume of your hair depends partly on this pre-set number, but also on the diameter of each hair and the tempo of the hair cycle.

COMMON REASONS FOR HAIR LOSS

In men, genetically programmed hair loss is easily recognized. It typically starts

with recession at the temples so that the hairline forms an “m” shape. The hair at the top of the head also thins. Hair loss can start as early as the teenage years, but it is more common with age. This type of hair loss is believed to affect as many as half of all men.

In women, genetically programmed hair loss presents differently. Women tend to keep their frontal hairline, but they notice that they have less hair on the crown. Women notice that their part is getting wider or that the scalp is peeking through their hair. As a society, we are not as aware of this kind of hair loss, so this process can be distressing and alienating for women. This type of hair loss is extremely common in post-menopausal women, affecting as many as 75 percent of women after age 65.

In both men and women, the reason that the hair thins is that the hair’s growth phase shortens, resulting in a shorter, thinner, miniaturized hair that doesn’t provide any cosmetic benefit. This change happens very slowly over years and decades.

Rapid shedding of the hair is not typical of either male- or female-pattern balding. People who are undergoing shedding will notice large amounts of hair in their hairbrush or in their shower drain 50 percent of hairs are shed before thinning is noticed.

WHAT TO DO?

As a board-certified dermatologist who takes care of people with hair loss, my advice is to visit a dermatologist! This is especially true if you are a woman with hair loss. It is more challenging to identify genetically programmed hair loss in women than men. Your dermatologist is specifically trained to distinguish among different types of hair loss and to do further testing when warranted.

TREATMENT OPTIONS

Minoxidil is believed to work by dilating the blood vessels that supply the hair follicles with nutrients. It may also work by extending the growth phase of the hair cycle or by enlarging hair follicles. Of course, like all medical interventions, minoxidil doesn’t work for everyone.

Low level light therapy is believed to work similarly to minoxidil by increasing blood flow and nutrients, which stimulate the hair follicle, as well as reducing inflammation.

Finasteride, which is used for men and sometimes for post-menopausal women, works by decreasing the hormones that cause the scalp hair to miniaturize.

PRP contains growth factors and proteins that are believed to work by repairing the hair follicle. There is growing evidence that points to PRP being helpful for maintaining and regrowing hair that is thinning.

The above four treatments are the ones that dermatologists can confidently promote based on current evidence. There are many other kinds of treatments, including vitamins and shampoos, that may be beneficial, but the evidence doesn’t support their use yet.

SO, IF YOU NOTICE THAT YOUR HAIR IS THINNING AND YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADDRESS IT, THE TAKE-HOME MESSAGES ARE:

1) You are not alone.

2) Seek a medical evaluation with a board-certified dermatologist! 3) In general, it is easier to treat thinning when it is less severe.

no matter the occasion, there ’s more than meets the eye when it comes to what we ’ve brought along —these bags stow what you need while making statements all their own .

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GOT GERD?

Do you suffer from heartburn, acid reflux, or regurgitation?

Have you awakened in the middle of the night with a burning sensation in your chest or throat?

Do you feel a metallic taste in your mouth in the morning?

Have you been on over-the-counter antacids or acid reducing medications?

If you suffer from any of the above symptoms you may have GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease. If left untreated, GERD can lead to Barrett’s esophagus and even esophageal cancer.

Call our office today for an appointment and let us help with our multimodality diagnostic tools including endoscopy, pH monitoring, and manometry.

Our doctors are well versed with state of the art treatments including a no incision GERD correction procedure known as TIF (Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication). We also work with a multidisciplinary team with access to robotic hernia repair and LINX procedures.

309 Regency Pkwy Ste 201 Mansfield, TX 76063

8200 Matlock Road Ste 160 Arlington, TX 76002

2220 Bryan Place Ste 104 Midlothian, TX 76065

NorthTXGI.com 817-877-0888

MOUSTAFA YOUSSEF, MD IMAD I. AHMAD, MD

PET CLUB

Emmi

“We love reading your magazine each month and wanted to show you a photo of our boxer, Emmi!”

- SHANNON H.

Misty

“Misty loves to be around humans! She will sit in the middle of a kids playdate with many people and complete chaos.”

- SHARYNE L.

Beast

“Beast is 20 years old. Here she his hiding in her weed garden. Iguanas like her love to eat greens and some fruits.”

- MARY GRACE H

(A: While iguanas can regrow their tails, arms and legs is asking a bit too much.)

SAY WHAT?

A pack of kittens is called a kindle, and a pack of adult cats is called a clowder.

PET TRIVIA QUESTION!

ONE OF THE FOLLOWING FACTS IS INCORRECT. WHICH ONE?

One of the following facts is incorrect. Which one?

A) Iguanas are able to detach their arms and legs and grow new ones

B) Boxers served as scout and messenger dogs in World War I

C) The first ever Internet Cat Video Festival was held in 2012

D) A grizzly bear’s bite is strong enough to crush a bowling ball

PET CLUB MEMBERS

Living Pet Club members are automatically entered to win our frequent pet-related giveaways! To join the club, send your pet’s name, your name, your address, and a clear photo of your pet to pets@livingmagazine.net or visit LivingMagazine.net/pet-club. They might just turn up in a future issue of Living!

PETS@LIVINGMAGAZINE.NET

We L VE Three Dog Bakery

Visit our Arlington and Mansfield locations to find a selection of treats that can only be found in our bakeries –because they’re fresh-baked on-site by real pastry chefs who use simple, healthy, and whole some ingredients. Check out our playful exclusive seasonal treats, gourmet dog pastries, including our famous Pupcakes®, and one-of-a-kind canine cakes you can have personalized for your pup’s special occasion. With Three Dog Bakery, you can make their birthday, adoption day, training graduation day or any day special. Because who says you need to have a reason to spoil your dog?

Three Dog Bakery opened the world’s first bakery for dogs in 1989 and has been making tails wag ever since! We’re excited to share the same over-the-top experience with you in Mansfield. Bring your dogs and come see what all the fuss is about!

•

home & GARDEN

A special look at where you and your family live and grow 2020

GROWING home

HOUSTON CHATEAU NEAR BELLAIRE, TEXAS

PROJECT BY LANSON B. JONES & CO.

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLI DURHAM

A FRENCH-CONTEMPORARY CHATEAU BRIDGES INDOOR

ELEGANCE AND OUTDOOR LIVING

The exterior This Houston chateau features an elegant mix of French and contemporary design, conceptualized by the owners to ensure natural light and clean lines were carried throughout the interior and exterior of the home, including its numerous outdoor spaces.

ABOUT THE LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS:

Lanson B. Jones & Co. has been a fixture in Houston since it was founded more than 25 years ago. Their guiding motto, “we care about people through what we do best,” shapes the relationship-focused yet design-centered process. The team pays close attention to the client’s vision and combines their unique design philosophy to transform homes. LansonBJones.com

Concourse The beautiful property boasts three courtyards and a copious amount of windows to give the airy feeling of contiguous indoor/outdoor living.

Lounge Exterior spaces like this one also retain an interior feel, in this case enhanced by an in-wall fireplace, viewpoints of the landscaping, and various plants that serve to make the outdoors feel like the indoors without jettisoning natural light and fauna.

Looking out The landscape architecture and exterior design was planned to compliment the home’s style and the owners’ own furnishings, creating outdoor retreats for the family that felt like a natural extension of the rest of the home’s look and feel.

OVER YOUR Head

KEEPING TABS ON YOUR ROOF DOESN’T HAVE TO BE DIFFICULT

BY MIMI GREENWOOD KNIGHT

It’s unglamorously resting atop your house, come rain or shine or summer hurricane. But how often do you think about your roof? Unless it’s leaking, probably not a lot. But your roof is the first line of defense for your largest investment—your home. Here are some ways to be roof savvy.

WATCH FOR ROOF ROT

Fallen leaves, moss, and assorted organic matter can cause your roof to retain water and accelerate roof rot, leading to rotten shingles that allow moisture into your attic or cause leaky ceilings. Keep your roof free of moisture-retaining debris.

BE GUTTER WISE

Clogged gutters can cause water to accumulate on your roof, accelerating wear and encouraging rot and mold growth. Blocked gutters can also become so weighted they bend right off your house, causing further damage.

INSPECT FROM AFAR

Rather than getting on your roof to inspect for issues, watch for wear around chimneys and boots surrounding kitchen and bathroom

ventilation tubes. Use binoculars to check for cracked or bald shingles and loose nails, which are warning signs your roof needs some attention.

HAVE YOUR ROOF INSPECTED

A seasoned roofing contractor can spot potential issues and give you a clear picture of your roof’s condition and what issues might need to be addressed.

WHEN TO REPLACE

Anticipate replacing your shingled roof about every 20 years. Clay tiled and metal roofs cost a bit more but should last longer.

INVEST IN ROOF REPAIRS

A leaky roof can cause structural damage, mold growth, and all sorts costly problems. Roof repairs are relatively affordable, especially when compared to the alternative.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT ROOFING CONTRACTOR

Do your homework before hiring a roofing contractor. Ask around to see if your friends have any recommendations. Check online ratings, and make sure any candidates are licensed and bonded. Ask potential contractors for solid references and call them. If a roofing contractor’s bid seems too good to be true, it probably is. It’s better to pay a bit more for quality work, especially when it comes to the roof on your home. If you’re an avid DIYer, here’s one area where you should probably hire a professional. Roofing repair is difficult, requires specialized tools, and is potentially dangerous work. The last thing you need is to cause further damage or injure yourself trying to save a few bucks.

Working closely with you to ensure we understand your every need.

The best materials and a tenured and well trained staff is the key to your satisfaction and exceeded expectations.

• New Roof Construction

• Roof Repair / Replacement

• Commercial Roofing

• Skylights

TILE Style

AN ANCIENT ARTFORM THAT’S NEWER THAN EVER

BY DAVID BUICE

Tile is all around us for everyone to enjoy, and has been for thousands of years. It’s the simplest form of ceramic art, and the earliest examples are Egyptian, dating back to about 4,000 B.C.

From its original Egyptian home, the art of making tile gradually spread to Europe in the 10th century. Because of its expense, however, initially its use was largely limited to the continent’s magnificent edifices, like Europe’s many cathedrals.

In the 19th century, Britain pioneered the mass production of tile, greatly reducing its cost, and by the beginning of the 20th century an increasing emphasis on cleanliness and hygiene led to its extensive use in kitchens and bathrooms in Europe and America. Even subways were often lined with colorful tiles and beautiful wall murals.

TECHNOLOGY’S TOUCH

Today, the use of tile is more popular than ever because of its durability, ease of maintenance, and the use of modern technology in transforming and modernizing this ancient art form. Technology such as digital printing enables tile manufacturers to produce new and distinctive forms and patterns that can be used virtually anywhere in the home, not just in the kitchen and bathroom.

TILE TRENDS FOR 2020

With this history and recent innovations in mind, here are some of the expected trends in tile for the coming year and beyond.

COLOR

Color appears to be a top trend to consider in 2020. In the recent past, greige (a mix of gray and beige) was the rage. For 2020 many interior designers expect warm and neutral colors–grey, white and ivory–will be staples. The attraction to these colors seems to be an emphasis on minimalistic interior design and the mixing of neutral colors with industrial elements like brass and other metals.

IMITATING NATURAL MATERIALS

Natural stone will continue to be used, but the use of stone-look and wood-look tile is expected to increase. There will probably also be an increasing use of tile that resembles marble, metal, and concrete, all made possible and believable thanks to modern, high-definition printing in tile production.

SHAPES AND PATTERNS

Although patterned flooring and wall tiles have been used in the past, 2020 is predicted to be the year in which bold patterns and shapes really come to the forefront. In the coming year you can expect to see a lot of creativity in the use of both floor and wall tile.

COVERINGS 2020

Finally, if you’re a real aficionado of all things tile, you might want to take in Coverings 2020, an international tile expo to be held in New Orleans this April, featuring tile producers from around the world displaying their latest wares. That seems like a great excuse to sample the hottest trends in tile, as well as some of the Big Easy’s fabulous cuisine while you’re at it.

SWITCHING Sides

WHEN IT’S TIME FOR NEW SIDING

AND WHICH MATERIAL IS RIGHT FOR YOU

BY CHERYL ALEXANDER

Siding replacement or repair is one of the most important home improvements you’ll make as a homeowner. Choosing well will ensure that your house stays in the best condition possible. Good siding will prevent water and moisture from infiltrating your home, improve its energy efficiency, and keep your house looking great.

Homeowners are increasingly looking to new siding options that not only fit their lifestyle and budget, but also hold up against our region’s climate. A few considerations when selecting siding include water resistance, ease of installation, energy efficiency, aesthetics, and durability. For our area and climate, three materials routinely top the list.

WOOD

Wood is beautiful and easy to work with and can last for generations. Consider however that maintenance (finishes and painting every few years) can add up.

HARDIEPLANK

With a reputation for stability and low maintenance, HardiePlank (fiber cement) is engineered with attributes specific to climate. It resists expanding and contracting with changes in humidity and temperature. It’s also fire-resistant, wind proof, termite-proof, and rot-proof. A heavier siding, installation requires special techniques and tools that add to the cost. Finding a contractor with experience is key.

STUCCO

Stucco looks great and will last a lifetime if maintained properly. Resistant to fire and insects, stucco won’t need to be repainted if it’s done right the first time. Conversely, installation requires a lot of prep work and requires an experienced professional. If you’re not sure if now is the time to get this project started, here are some signs new siding is needed.

CRACKS OR LOOSENING

Exposure and wind can loosen siding. A professional inspection can help you determine whether to replace individual boards or sections, or determine if your whole house needs new siding.

FADING OR PEELING

Siding should keep its shape and color for 8 to 10 years. If your home needs more frequent paint, it might be time to replace your siding.

ROT OR WARPING

To test for rot, insert a screwdriver gently under the boards and joints along gutters and chimneys to see if the material underlying the area is soft and easy to puncture. Also, tap on the outside of the siding with the handle of a screwdriver. If it crumbles, splits, or sounds hollow, this can indicate dry rot.

HOLES OR OTHER DAMAGE

Storm damage from hail or even smaller holes from insects burrowing into the wood allow moisture underneath. Any growth—such as fungus, mold, algae or mildew—indicate moisture is penetrating siding and seeping into walls. Bubbles in exterior paint, water stains on interior walls, or evidence of water swell under wallpaper signal that your siding isn’t keeping the elements out of your home.

Whether you’re choosing the siding for your new house or updating your current home’s exterior, this important home investment will have a big impact on the exterior appearance and integrity of your home for years to come.

SIMPLY SUSTAINABLE

TAKING BABY STEPS TOWARD MORE RESPONSIBLE LIVING

BY MIMI GREENWOOD KNIGHT

Ten years ago, I was an environmental offender. Busy raising four small humans, I gave little thought to what I was buying and tossing and what natural resources I was plowing through. I’ve spent the past decade making small steps toward sustainability, often spurred on by the things my kids were learning in school. (“Mom, you can recycle that, you know.”) Living in the country made some changes tougher. We may never get curbside recycling here. But other things—like growing some of our veggies and drinking water from our own well—were easier. The main thing I learned is that even though not everybody can do everything, we can all do something to live more sustainably. Here are four simple things to try.

EAT LOCALLY

IT’S BEEN ESTIMATED THAT PRODUCE FROM YOUR (organic or not) TRAVELS AN AVERAGE OF

LOCAL GROCERY STORE

1,500 miles

from the farm to your plate.

BRING YOUR W TER BRING YOUR W TER

Not only does that mean fossil fuel pollution and depletion of resources, but your food reaches its peak of nutritional value and taste in the back of a truck or warehouse. Supporting your local farm or farmer’s market or growing some of your own food means you get all the nutrients you’re meant to get. Food tastes the way it should. And you’ve greatly reduced your carbon footprint.

Bottled water is a $13 billion industry and the extraction of water and production of plastic bottles is notoriously harmful to communities and wildlife. Meanwhile, water from your faucet is practically free and many U.S. cities have won quality tests and taste tests against name-brand water. If your area’s water is good, get in the habit of drinking it—and if it’s not, consider investing in a filtration system to dispense quality water at home.

DRIVE LESS, DRIVE WISE

Not only can you combine errands or carpool to use your car less, but you can keep your car in shape with regular tune-ups and tire inflations. Tune-ups can increase your fuel efficiency by 4 to 40 percent. And if every American kept their tires inflated, gas use nationwide would decrease by 2 percent.

“THE GREATEST THREAT TO OUR PLANET IS THE BELIEF THAT SOMEONE ELSE WILL SAVE IT.” – ROBERT SWAN, AUTHOR

WHAT CAN YOU DO TO BE MORE SUSTAINABLE? REDUCE REUSE REPAIR REBUILD REFURBISH REFINISH RESELL RECYCLE COMPOST

ACCORDING TO THE FOOD & BRAND LAB AT THE UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS, THE ESTIMATED NUMBER OF PEOPLE WHO COULD BE FED FOR A YEAR BY THE FOOD AMERICANS WASTE IN A DAY IS

240,183.

BUYING NEW-TO-YOU IS AN EASY, EFFECTIVE WAY TO KEEP OLD FURNITURE AND APPLIANCES FROM WINDING UP IN LANDFILLS. BEFORE YOU BUY, LOOK IN PLACES LIKE:

LOCAL NEWSPAPER LISTINGS

YOUR LOCAL FACEBOOK MARKETPLACE

AMAZON (UNDER THE “REFURBISHED” TAB)

LOCAL CONSIGNMENT SHOPS OR SALES

YOUR IN-LAW’S GARAGE

“IN GENERAL, THINK BEFORE YOU BUY ANY PRODUCT—DO YOU REALLY NEED IT? HOW DID THE PRODUCTION OF THIS PRODUCT IMPACT THE ENVIRONMENT AND WHAT FURTHER IMPACTS WILL THERE BE WITH THE DISPOSAL OF THE PRODUCT (AND ASSOCIATED PACKAGING MATERIALS) ? WHEN YOU ARE THINKING ABOUT BUYING SOMETHING, TRY THE 30-DAY RULE —WAIT 30 DAYS AFTER THE FIRST TIME YOU DECIDE YOU WANT A PRODUCT TO REALLY MAKE YOUR DECISION. THIS WILL ELIMINATE IMPULSE BUYING.”

(EXCERPTED FROM GLOBALSTEWARTS.ORG.)

There are many other ways you can make positive environmental impacts that aren’t listed here. But the point is to choose one thing and do it. Take one baby step toward sustainability, then another, and another.

“Isn’t this the most romantic time of your life?” “Aren’t you having SO MUCH FUN?!”

BY NATALIE K. GOULD

If you’re engaged, you’ve probably heard this stuff from friends and family. And if you’re like me, you feel as though your response should be an overwhelming “OMG YES,” even when your caterer won’t return your calls, half your family isn’t speaking to each other, the seating chart is a disaster, and your guest list thinks RSVPs are a suggestion. The truth is that while being engaged and planning a wedding is a beautiful time of life, it’s not always the most fun or romantic. However, through the process of planning my own wedding, I’ve developed some strategies that can hopefully keep the tears and panic attacks at bay.

SET THE BUDGET ON DAY 1.

This is the most important thing you can do. More important than finding your dress. More important than the venue. More important than beef or fish. The very next day after you get engaged, set the budget. If you and your partner are paying for the wedding, sit down and agree on a number as well as where that money is coming from. If someone else is helping you pay for it, have that conversation before you start imagining any details whatsoever. Make sure you are crystal clear about what you will and will not be financially responsible for.

Pro tip: Build in some padding to the budget. Even the most stringent budgeters cannot predict the volatility of wedding detail costs. I suggest a 15 percent safety net.

DELEGATE.

The biggest mistake I made at the beginning of wedding planning was not asking for help. This is your wedding and your partner’s wedding. Even if they’re less concerned about linen colors than you are, they are still very capable of making phone calls and getting quotes.

Pro tip: Ask how your partner would like you to communicate about tasks you would like them to take over. Then, communicate in that way on a weekly basis. I use email to communicate about our wedding tasks. We keep each other appraised of the status as we get something completed, and then I store it in the “wedding” folder in my email. Use the organization tactic you prefer, but decide on it together and stick to it.

DISTINGUISH MUST-HAVES FROM NICE-TO-HAVES.

As soon as the Internet finds out you’re engaged, you’ll be inundated with ads, phone calls, and emails detailing every wedding option ever. Before you know it, your budget is out the window and you’re planning a shabby chic wedding when all you’ve ever wanted was country club classic. Stay focused. Don’t fall for it. As soon as you have your budget, make a two-column list: one for musts and one for nice-to-haves. For me, I knew that a string quartet during the ceremony was a must. I knew that paying postage on the RSVP return envelopes was a must.

Pro tip: Create this list on a document, such as on Google Docs, that you can share with your spouse-to-be and collaborate. Then, try to estimate how much money you’re willing to put toward each of these musts. Closer to your wedding, you can see if there’s any money left over for the nice-to-haves.

how to support your partner during your engagement

• Understand that stress causes a variety of reactions. If they’re crying, it might not be because of unhappiness, but maybe because of something as simple as a realization that the dream venue doesn’t fit the budget. Don’t ask what’s wrong, simply put your arm around them and let them talk it out.

• Assume extra responsibilities around the home. You can help by taking over laundry duty, cooking or picking up dinner, making sure the house is clean and tidy, or creating an overall relaxing space as a retreat for your stressed out cohort. Do these things without being asked—just assume the responsibilities.

• Voice your opinions early on. If something is important to you for your wedding, say so at the beginning so it can be built into the planning process. Don’t wait until deposits are paid to mention that you were really hoping for a Star Wars cake.

• Don’t forget that you love each other. Wedding planning is a crazy time of life. Don’t lose sight of the entire reason you’re doing this. Set devoted time aside for each other where you will not talk about the wedding. You will both welcome a scheduled break to just focus on being in love and enjoy your engagement.

PICKING it up

A WINTER EXCURSION TO ESTES PARK, COLORADO

BY JENNIFER SIMONSON

“Keep your heels down and feet close together if you want to create balance,” my guide shouts up at me, my right hand gripping a pick loosely lodged into crackling ice. If? I wonder if he doesn’t think that the lack of balance is my primary concern, hanging ten feet off the ground clinging for life on an ice-smeared rock.

When traveling, I like to try to participate in activities I would never get involved with back home. I previously lived in Colorado for five years, but never once had a desire to go snowshoeing or ice climbing. Nevertheless, I packed for both on my quick weekend trip to Estes Park.

Estes Park is a town in northern Colorado that sits at the base of Rocky Mountain National Park. It’s a popular summer destination particularly because of Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved highway in North America. The 48-mile road climbs to more than 12,000 feet, cutting through forests, fields of wildflowers, alpine tundra, and possibly herds of elk along the way. The road is only open during warm months.

Each summer thousands of families make their way to the little mountain town to drive Trail Ridge Road, hike in the Rocky Mountain National Park, and shop at one of the innumerable salt water taffy shops along the town’s main street.

But when winter rolls around, Estes Park fades into the background as popular nearby ski towns like Vail, Breckenridge, and Aspen take the spotlight. The closest ski range to Estes is an hour away. The absence of ski slopes leaves Estes Park and the Rocky Mountain National Park ripe for other winter activities like snowshoeing, backcountry skiing, sledding, and… ice climbing.

I spent my first day in Estes snowshoeing the backcountry of Rocky Mountain National Park with Estes Park Rock Climbing. Our guide Matt lead us on a four hour tour through snow covered trees to a wind-whipped frozen lake. This particular tour, the company’s most popular, ended with a whiskey tasting at Elkins Distillery. A glass of spiced whiskey melted away the last bit of frozen sensations from the long winter morning. With taxidermied deer heads hanging on the wall and Ryan Bingham playing on the jukebox I almost felt like I was in one of the small bars that dot Texas’ backroads until I looked out the window to the nearby snow capped peaks.

I consider myself an outdoorsy person based on the fact that I like taking my dog on hikes, doing yoga in the park, and reading in a hammock, but of course any time the temperature in Austin dips below 60 degrees I tend to stay indoors to wait for the winter activity to pass.

And yet, during the last three hours on day two of my trip, distant memories of whiskey dancing through my head, I have strapped spikes to winter boots, crossed a semi-frozen river, hiked up a mountain in a foot of snow, and used fancy ice picks to slowly claw my way up a frozen waterfall. As I hang on the side of the ice trying to get proper footing I start questioning my recent decisions. Why am I spending a perfectly nice afternoon scaling a frozen mountain at 8,000 feet? Am I having a midlife crisis? What is going on with me?

“We are going to a place with great beginner’s ice,” our guide had explained to us that morning, at the start of our eight hour class. Two other students and I sat in a small stark white room at the Colorado

ESTES PARK IS A TOWN IN NORTHERN COLORADO THAT SITS AT THE BASE OF ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK. IT’S A POPULAR SUMMER DESTINATION PARTICULARLY BECAUSE OF TRAIL RIDGE ROAD, THE HIGHEST CONTINUOUS PAVED HIGHWAY IN NORTH AMERICA.

Mountain School in front of a folding table full of metal ice tools and a whiteboard that said “intro to ice” in blue marker.

We went around the room introducing ourselves, where we were from, and why we took the class. Our climbing instructor is named Rainbow. Born to a pair of hippies in Hawaii, Rainbow has been leading climbing expositions around the world for 20 years. My two classmates live in nearby mountain towns and are experienced mountaineers who wanted to continue their outdoor wilderness education. I introduced myself as a writer from Texas who thought ice climbing might be fun.

Rainbow began the class by explaining the equipment we would need for the climb. As he picked up the spiked bindings we would attach to our shoes and the fancy curved ice picks we would use to inch our way up ice slabs, it began to dawn on me that this outing might be more advanced than I originally thought.

Turns out I wasn’t that great at ice climbing. I never figured out proper footing, but with Rainbow’s assistance I was able to climb to the top every time I stepped up to the ice. I ended up having a fun day in the mountains. And isn’t that what traveling is all about? Experiencing and learning how to do new things you would never do at home, while at times questioning your sanity? For me, it’s the only way.

FRESH, ROASTED, AND BAKED DISHES MADE

MOSTLY FROM FRUITS AND VEGETABLES YOU CAN GROW IN YOUR VERY OWN BACK YARD BY MELISSA TATE

CUCUMBER HERB SALAD

INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

MAKES: 6 SERVINGS TIME: 20 MIN.

COMBINE cucumbers, tomatoes, onion, and herbs in a medium bowl and set aside. COMBINE olive oil, white wine vinegar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. DRIZZLE mixture over cucumber salad and toss. Top with crumbled feta.

TIPS & TRICKS:

Serve with buttered sourdough bread for a surprisingly easy meal.

PHOTOS & FOOD BY MELISSA TATE

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

RECIPE INSPIRED BY THE NEW YORK TIMES . MODIFIED BY MELISSA TATE.

FIVE SPICE CARROTS

INGREDIENTS:

MAKES: 4 TO 6 SERVINGS

TIME:15 MIN. PREP + 25 MIN. ROAST

DIRECTIONS:

PLACE a baking sheet on the bottom rack and heat oven to 425 ˚F. IN A LARGE BOWL, stir together 2 Tbsp. olive oil with five spice powder, garlic, and 1 tsp. salt. Add carrots and toss to coat. Transfer carrots to the hot baking sheet and arrange in an even layer. Roast on bottom rack until carrots are tender and browned, about 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through. WHILE CARROTS ARE ROASTING, toast the almonds on a separate baking sheet on the top rack of same oven, 7 to 8 minutes or until golden brown. ALLOW to cool and then place in bowl with chives,vinegar, ginger, and remaining olive oil. Stir to combine and season with salt. SCATTER half of mixture on serving platter, top with carrots, and then scatter remaining mixture on top of carrots. SERVE warm.

TIPS & TRICKS:

This recipe is a perfect vegan or vegetarian option as it is naturally vegan.

EASY BAKED APPLES

INGREDIENTS:

MAKES: 4 SERVINGS

TIME: 10 MIN. PREP + 50 MIN. BAKE

DIRECTIONS:

HEAT oven to 375 ˚F and spray an 8”x8” baking dish with nonstick baking spray. HALVE the apples from stem to bottom and then remove core, seeds, and stem. ARRANGE in baking dish, cut side up. Sprinkle 1 Tbsp. brown sugar and ¼ tsp. cinnamon over apples. MELT the butter in a pan over medium heat. Remove from heat and stir in flour, oats, brown sugar, cranberries, pecans, cinnamon, and salt. DIVIDE topping between apples and lightly press down on apples. COVER with aluminum foil and bake 25 minutes. UNCOVER and bake another 20 to 30 minutes until apples are soft and topping is brown.

TIPS & TRICKS:

Halving the apples rather than coring them and baking whole lends to quicker prep, less bake time, and easier eating.

RECIPE INSPIRED BY INSPIRED TASTE, SIGNIFICANTLY MODIFIED BY MELISSA TATE.

ABOUT OUR CHEF

EASY BAKED APPLES

INGREDIENTS:

MAKES: 4 SERVINGS

TIME: 10 MIN. PREP + 50 MIN. BAKE

DIRECTIONS:

TIPS & TRICKS:

Halving the apples rather than coring them and baking whole lends to quicker prep, less bake time, and easier eating.

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

A SMATTERING of stuff

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

TURNING THE PAGE

MAGNETIC BATTLE

You don’t have to rely on fancy electronics to pass the time on a day spent inside away from the cold—consider the distinctly low-tech Danish sensation Klask, a little magnetic tabletop hockey-style game created by a bored carpenter in his garage in 2014 that’s now become a worldwide favorite.

$39/2 PLAYER VERSION, $59/4 PLAYER VERSION, TARGET.COM

A LONG DRIVE

The annual 500-mile-long auto event known as “The Great American Race” returns to Daytona Beach this month. Yes, it’s time again for NASCAR’s Daytona 500, watched each year by more than ten million people. And if you’re not one of them, then… odds are good, at least, that someone you know will be.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 16, ON FOX

TURNING THE PAGE

February is Library Lovers Month, which means now is the perfect time of year to dust off the library card and head to your local branch for an afternoon. Did you know many city libraries even offer eBook borrowing and movie rentals? And that’s a true story.

ALL MONTH, AT A LIBRARY NEAR YOU

NO GROUCHING

The Golden Globes are in the books and that means that last year’s movie chatter is about to go with it—but not before the final bow is tied on at the 92nd Academy Awards, which will honor 2019’s best at Hollywood’s Dolby Theater. Action!

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 5:30 PM, ON ABC

CUSTOM CREATIONS

Add a bit of personalized but professional looking charm to gifts, crafts, or maybe even wedding invitations with the new Cricut Maker machine, which handles fabrics, leather, paper, and even balsa wood to cut, score, and write whatever you need at a moment’s notice.

FROM $369, TINYURL.COM/LIVINGWEDDINGS

CUSTOM CREATIONS

A LONG DRIVE

MAGNETIC BATTLE