Living Magazine April 2020

APRIL 2020 KEEP GOING BREATHE

CAMP THURMAN DRAWING CLOSER TO GOD FOR 50 YEARS + LOCAL HAPPENINGS, FEEL-GOOD STORIES, AND MORE...

MEMORIES TO LAST A LIFETIME

Our Work Speaks For Itself. Our pricing is competitive with home centers, and our estimates are absolutely free with no strings attached.

Our design software allows you to take a virtual tour and view the entire room before renovation begins. Once you see our preliminary design, we can make changes quickly. We measure every job, then work with you to design your dream kitchen, office, entertainment room or bathroom. Once you’ve approved the plans, we take over seamlessly to ensure your peace of mind from inception to completion, keeping to both time and budget.

• 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

letter from the publisher

The world we’re living in today is not the month we were living in a month ago. None of us saw this pandemic coming, but God did. None of us knows how long it will last. But God does. With so much uncertainty, it can be easy to get swept up in fear and doubt. But 2 Timothy 1:7 tells us, “God has not given us a spirit of fear but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”

It helps me to remember Who we serve and Who’s in charge of this—of every—situation. God is still on the throne and He sees to the end of this pandemic. His word tells us, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified, for the Lord your God goes with you. He will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Deuteronomy 31:6)

Our local and world leaders, corporate leaders, and educational and medical professionals have all done an amazing job minimizing the spread of COVID-19. It’s been heartening to see how unselfishly everyone has done what they can to keep the public safe. And our healthcare workers and first responders have been wonderful!

Let’s all try to use this time to pray for our country, our elected leaders, our businesses, and to reflect on the things that matter most—family, friends, community, and God. Let’s strive for teachable spirits, so when life is back to normal, we all emerge as better, more grateful and gracious people.

The LORD of hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our refuge. 8 Come, behold the works of the LORD. Who has made desolations in the earth. 9 He makes wars cease to the end of the earth. He breaks the bow and cuts the spear in two; He burns the chariot in the fire. 10 Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth! 11 The LORD of hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our refuge.

PSALM 46:7-11

MISTY DANIELS, OWNER/PUBLISHER mdaniels@livingmagazine.net

682-556-1246

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contribution

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS

Lisa Landry, Anna Charles, LaRue

Novick, Meredith Knight

PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTORS

Lauren Medean, Diana Raines community magazine group

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SOUTH TEXAS MARKETS

The Woodlands/Shenandoah/ Magnolia

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Katy / Fulshear

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letters from OUR MAYORS

mayor DAVID COOK MANSFIELD

It’s a challenging time in our community and in our country as we navigate the current public health emergency related to COVID-19.

To protect the health and safety of our residentsespecially our most vulnerable - we’re taking extraordinary measures that are changing how we go about our lives.

But while these changes are challenging they are also creating opportunities for Mansfield to show how we as a community care for each other.

Parents, teachers, volunteers and local businesses are stepping up to ensure that MISD students are fed during their time away from the classroom. City departments are providing resources for parents to keep their children engaged and learning while at

home.

Mansfield residents are supporting local businesses by ordering takeout or delivery from the dozens of restaurants that call our city home. Helping these establishments now can help ensure they will continue to be successful in our city once this emergency passes.

Yes, this is a challenge. But we will get through it together.

That’s what we in Mansfield do, emergency or not.

mayor RON JENSEN GRAND PRAIRIE

As we all work toward a virus-free country, all city of Grand Prairie updates can be found here: www.gptx.org/COVID-19.

All city offices are closed to public walk-in indefinatley. We are working with city, county, state and federal officials hourly as the situation evolves and will open as soon as it is responsible to do so. Staff is still answering phone calls and emails, and all departments have provided digital and virtual ways to serve our customers, which can be found at the link above.

The decisions to enact restrictions and closures were not made lightly. City officials have been working diligently and daily with other city, county and state officials and have had to make difficult decisions to help mitigate the spread of this virus to protect community health and save lives.

We realize the disruption to your business and personal lives will be extremely impactful, as it is to our community, the state and the nation. We appreciate your patience as this is a rapidly

evolving national health disaster. If left unchecked, the virus would quickly overtake our healthcare system, creating chaos and no chance of survival for many. COVID-19 has created an immediate threat, poses a high risk of death to a large number of people, creates a substantial risk of public exposure because it is easy to infect others and rapidly spreads, and there is community spread in Texas. It will take all of us fighting together to the greater good. If we succeed in limiting the number of new cases, then we can dedicate more resources to the most vulnerable and save lives; and get back to our new normal faster.

Grand Prairie has always been the most amazing community during a crisis. We pull together, not apart. We find ways to help each other, not fight each other. Please take care of yourselves, your families and your neighbors.

Stay safe and healthy,

We know there’s growing concern about the outbreak of the Corona Virus. I want to commend Governor Greg Abbott and Tarrant County Judge Glen Whitley for their leadership with the governor declaring a state of disaster and Judge Whitley declaring a local disaster. I commend our Arlington ISD, Mansfield ISD, UT Arlington and Tarrant County College for doing everything they can to keep our students healthy and safe. And I commend all those who planned to host major events in the coming weeks, for postponing to later dates.

It’s going to take all of us working together to make sure we put the public health and safety of our community above everything else. As your mayor, I can assure you that’s always the top priority of our city council and the leaders of every one of our city departments. We’ll

continue to rely on the region’s expert medical community so we can make smart decisions with our community’s quality of life at the top of our minds.

Please, visit ArlingtonTX.gov/CoronaVirus for preventative tips and to stay on top of this evolving situation. Residents are welcome to pay their water bill, access municipal court services, obtain pet licensing, and many other city services online, so you don’t have to leave your homes. I love this community and I’m proud to be your mayor. I want to assure you we’re doing everything we can to keep you safe. We’ll get through this together.

APRIL 4

AWARD WINNING YAPPY HOUR

Arlington Parks and Recreation

Join us for the 2020 Dog Social and get egg-cited fur a fun event! 5:30-8:30pm. Pre-register for $10 or $15 cash at event. Ages 21+, leashed dogs welcome. Fenced off-leash areas available. Rush Creek Dog Park, 1900 Valleywood Dr. Register online or call Eunice Activity Center 817-277-8091.

NATURALLYFUN.ORG

APRIL 8

GARDENING FOR POLLINATORS

City of Arlington Water

6:30-8pm. Lake Arlington Branch, 4000 W. Green Oaks Blvd.

APRIL 11

8TH ANNUAL BASS CLASSIC

Arlington Parks and Recreation

6:30am-2:30pm. Richard Simpson Park. For registration and details visit website.

ARLINGTONBASSCLASSIC.COM

APRIL 11 AND 25

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.

April 24-25

MOM & SON OVERNIGHT AT THE REC

Arlington Parks and Recreation

A night that will be filled with dinner and games. Have fun with friendly mom and son competitions, crafts and more! Ages 3 and up. Cost is $12 5pm-7am. Cliff Nelson Rec Center, 4600 W. Bardin Rd.

APRIL 16

POPSICLES IN THE PARK

Arlington Parks and Recreation

Join us for a jammed packed hour of fun including popsicles, prizes and park time. All littles and their favorite adults are welcome! Bring your friends. For all ages. Free. 10am11:30am. Veterans Park, 3600 W.Arkansas.

APRIL 17-19

9TH ANNUAL MAIN STREET FEST

Grand Prairie

This 3 day festival hosted by Grand Prairie Parks, Arts & Rec Dept., with free parking and admission. Celebrate the fun, festive, family atmosphere with live music, a variety of novelty entertainment, more than 14 carnival rides, arts and crafts vendors, business expo vendors, three entertainment stages, food and beer gardens, a kid zone and plenty of fun for all! 5pm. 200 block of W. Main St.

MAINSTREETFEST.COM

APRIL 18

BARKS & REC 5K

Mansfield

This is open to all individuals who would like to run, with or without a furry-friend. Dogs from the Mansfield Animal Shelter will also be made available for those who would like to be teamed up with a running partner. Pre-registration is required. A portion of the fees will be donated to the Mansfield Animal Shelter. Following the 5K fun run is Mansfield’s first Barks in the Park doggy day out at Rose Park. 8am-11am. $20. 303 N. Walnut Creek.

MANSFIELDPARKS.COM

APRIL 22

POTS IN SMALL SPOTS: CONTAINER GARDENING

City of Arlington Water

6:30-8pm. George W. Hawkes Downtown Library, 100 S. Center St.

APRIL 25

EARTH DAY MANSFIELD FESTIVAL

Mansfield

The event features the Mansfield Farmer’s Market, a butterfly release, children’s area, fishing lessons, rain barrel auction, educational vendors, natural product vendors, music, food trucks, beverages and more! Fun for the whole family. Free admission. 10am-2pm. The festival location is the Chris Burkett Service Center, 620 S. Wisteria St. Visit our website.

MANSFIELDTEXAS.GOV/516/EARTH-DAYMANSFIELD

APRIL 25

NATURE WALK

River Legacy Living Science Center

Explore the nature trails surrounding the Science Center on a family-friendly guided Nature Walk. FREE. Space is limited. RSVP to 817.860.6752. 2pm-3pm. Nature Walks are usually held the fourth Saturdays of every month. 703 NW Green Oaks Blvd.

see more events in your area on LIVINGMAGAZINE.NET

UPCOMING EVENTS

BYE BYE BIRDIE

Friday, April 24 - Saturday, April 25 at 7 PM

Arlington Music Hall

Grace preparatory academy proudly presents this year’s all-school musical, Bye Bye Birdie. Bye Bye Birdie holds a special place in musical theatre history. With now-iconic songs, including ‘Put On A Happy Face’ and ‘We Love you Conrad’, it’s one of the first shows to highlight the rock and roll genre, paving the way for future rock musicals on stage.

KEITH MITCHELL

Friday, April 3 at 9:30 PM

Texas Live! Arena

FIERCE, FREE, AND FULL OF FIRE WITH JEN HATMAKER

Tuesday, April 14 at 7:30 PM

The Theatre at Grand Prairie

M80’S

Friday, April 17 at 9:30 PM Texas Live! Arena

MARTIN BARRE-JETHRO TULL

Friday, April 17 at 8 PM Arlington Music Hall

UFC 249

Saturday, April 18 at 7 PM Texas Live! Arena

UBBI DUBBI FESTIVAL - 2 DAY PASS

Saturday, April 18 - Sunday, April 19 (Various Times)

Globe Life Park in Arlington

STEVE TYRELL

Saturday, April 18 at 8 PM Arlington Music Hall

ATEEZ WORLD TOUR

The Fellowship: Map The Treasure Thursday, April 23 at 7:30 PM

ANNA NALICK

Wednesday, April 29 at 8 PM Arlington Music Hall

COMING TO THEATERS

APRIL 10 // TROLLS WORLD TOUR

ANNA KENDRICK, JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE DIR. WALT DOHRN (TROLLS)

Remember Trolls? They’re back in a sequel to 2016’s creatively titled Trolls, based on those lovable plastic dolls with the insane hair. This time around, the perpetually happy creatures discover they’re cogs in a music machine, with Troll tribes around the world devoted to different genres of tunes—and Poppy (Kendrick) sets out with Branch (Timberlake) to find ‘em. Ozzy Osbourne, George Clinton, Mary J. Blige, Kelly Clarkson, Gwen Stefani, and other music icons provide guest voices.

THIS MONTH IN MOVIE HISTORY

APRIL 9, 1982 // CHARIOTS OF FIRE

IAN CHARLESON, BEN CROSS

DIR. HUGH HUDSON (GREYSTOKE: THE LEGEND OF TARZAN)

Known perhaps most broadly today for its anachronistic yet iconic “symphonic electronica” title theme by Vangelis (picture a humorous slow motion running scene you’ve seen in the last 30 years and you’ll hear it in your mind), this ironically slow-paced historical drama about two runners in the 1924 Olympic Games ended up taking Best Picture at the 54th Academy Awards and was later revived as a stage production in advance of the 2012 Olympics.

OUR BOOK PICK

APRIL 7 // JOY AT WORK ORGANIZING YOUR PROFESSIONAL LIFE

BY MARIE KONDO AND SCOTT SONENSHEIN

Netflix darling Marie Kondo partners with Rice University business professor Scott Sonenshein to bring the world renowned KonMari Method of tidying up to the workplace, offering stories, studies, and strategies to help you eliminate clutter and make space for work that really matters.

PET-FRIENDLY EVENT DELIGHTS COMMUNITY

HE WAGGIN’ WAGON’S 38th Annual North Texas Irish Festival, a kid- and pet-friendly event, created memories and added a new member to families! A total of 14 adorable dogs found their forever families!

GRAND PRAIRIE ANIMAL SERVICES AND ADOPTION CENTER (972) 237-8575 WWW.GPTX.ORG

PET CLUB

Kahleesi

“Kahleesi is mean, very mean… and she has lots of extra toes.”

- KAT C

Tito

“Tito is a serious escape artist who loves to get under the fence and play with little kids.”

- LUCY D.

Jackson

“Here’s Jackson, looking extra patriotic!”

- LISA M.

SAY WHAT?

13 states have official state dogs, and since 2005, the Blue Lacy belongs to Texas.

PET TRIVIA QUESTION!

ONE OF THE FOLLOWING FACTS IS INCORRECT. WHICH ONE?

A) Cats with extra toes are called polydactyl cats

B) The most popular dog names are Charlie and Bella

C) All cats are born with blue eyes

D) Dogs have roughly the same body temperature as humans

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

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!

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BY ALISON VORLICKY

“HE HEALS THE BROKENHEARTED AND BINDS UP THEIR WOUNDS”

Iremember as a young girl sitting on my living room floor picking at a scab while watching TV. The words that were spoken over me next stuck deep within my soul and I would have to say, changed the trajectory of how I viewed the girl in the mirror going forward. “You know Alison, if you have any scars on your body, you will never be pretty enough to be Miss America.”

Right then a piece of me faded away as I made an inner vow to never wear my scars, whether internal or external, because I never wanted to be seen as “not pretty.”

The scars I carried were not visible. They ran deep and were embedded in the essence of my being. I truly believed if anyone saw how ugly my life had been that they would never see the true beauty within. Unfortunately, I learned at an early age to place temporary bandages on the wounds I endured. The problem with that was I never took the time to properly care for them. They would ooze out with disappointments, get infected with rejection, reopen with bitterness, and subsequently they never fully healed or scared.

In the above verse, God says, “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”

This verse became my truth when I surrendered my life over to the Lord. God quickly stripped off the bandages I used to cover the dangling scabs that were preventing my open wounds from healing. He met me in the places of my deepest pain so He could resurrect the wounds of my bleeding heart. He took what was broken and began breathing life back into my dying soul.

When our wounds become scars, the painful sting fades away. However, our scars are an ongoing reminder of how God met us, brought us out of darkness and carried us into light. My scars, your scars, His scars, they all tell a story. It’s a story of grace, mercy, resurrected healing, and redemptive love. Our scars show the battlefield we were on and the war we conquered. They are proof that Greater HE who is in

me then he who is in the world. Our scars are a testimony that no matter how big the Giant was before us, the God inside us was stronger.

For those of you who have been tirelessly lugging around wounds that you vowed you would never let anyone see, open your hands. Receive the set of master keys Jesus is handing you. He is unlocking your shackles and releasing you from the heavy chains that have imprisoned you for decades.

Grieve your pain but let it serve a purpose. Take what the enemy meant for harm and use it to bring hope to the broken. Jesus wept. He cried out to God for strength when He didn’t think He could bear the cross. He was betrayed, despised, rejected, beaten, and hung on a cross, sacrificing His own life so our wounds would be healed. His pain was used for a purpose. His suffering brought our freedom. His scars gave us life.

Invite God in. Allow Him to heal the debilitating wounds that are hidden deep within the crevices of your soul. Jesus and Jesus alone is the only medicated bandage we will need to heal the pain and anguish our souls have endured. Jesus weeps with us. He turns our mourning into dancing and makes beauty from our ashes. He is close to the broken-hearted and those who are crushed in spirit. Trust in His promises and know, “By His stripes, we are healed.” Isaiah 53:5.

Alison Vorlicky is the CEO of Wrecked to Redeemed Ministries. Learn more at WreckedtoRedeemed.org.

CAMP THURMAN 2020

DAY CAMP, NIGHT CAMP, TEAM BUILDING, AND MORE

Camp Thurman is about relationships—relationships between campers, relationships between counselors (many of whom were once campers themselves), and relationships with God. This is no ordinary camp experience. Camp Thurman is a place where, no matter your age, you can come to get away from the world for a while, enjoy the outdoors, make memories, build friendships, and draw closer to God.

One CT parent put it like this, “This is the most awesome, fun, exciting, well-organized, Christian-based camp in all of Texas! Its Arlington’s hidden secret, tucked away in a shaded, wooded area with incredible zip lines, pools, games, etc. Your child will build wonderful memories to carry for a lifetime!”

Established in 1969, Camp Thurman is a nonprofit, ministry-minded camp dedicated to sharing God’s love and helping people pursue their identity in Christ. Located on 14 verdant acres in Pantego, it offers day camp, evening camp, team building, and camp-style activities for kids throughout the year. Because of its lush, country setting, kids can feel far from home, when they may only be miles away.

Camp Thurman counselors are exceptional. They are chosen through an extensive application and interview process during which each potential counselor must pen a letter explaining what they can uniquely bring to camp life. As many of them hope to return as a counselor, after making their own memories there as a camper, they understand that being at Camp Thurman is being part of a loving, Christian family. After working there three years, one counselor

BY MEREDITH KNIGHT

said, “This is one of the most fun places I’ve ever worked and truly an incredible experience. The greatest group of people work here for one common goal—to draw closer to God together.”

Over the past 50 years, Camp Thurman has touched and molded the lives of approximately 128,000 campers. In 2000, they realized a longtime dream of extending the reach of the camp with a year-round Challenge Adventure Program. More than 7,000 participants of all ages enjoy Camp Thurman’s specialized programming each year through outdoor activities, corporate retreats, team building workshops, and leadership and character development workshops. Each Challenge Adventure Program event is fully customized for each school, college, church, non-profi t organization, corporation, or other special group to create an experience that’s life changing, not only for individuals but for their community. After each event, Camp Thurman continues to act as a resource for the group.

Camp Thurman also invests in the lives of their annual 350 counselors, helping them fi nd, explore, and strengthen their identity in Christ. Many of them return to camp throughout the year for Bible study. For 50 years, Camp Thurman has sought to constantly improve their offerings, programs, and environment to give kids and counselors the greatest possible camp experience. It can make that difference for your child in 2020.

Find out more about the life-changing camp experience at CampThurman.org.

WHETHER YOUR CHILD ATTENDS DAY CAMP OR EVENING CAMP AT CAMP THURMAN, THEY CAN ENJOY:

• TWO POOLS AND A LAZY RIVER TO ESCAPE THE SUMMER HEAT

• TOWERING ROPE COURSES TO NAVIGATE OVER WATER AND THROUGH THE TREES

• A GIANT BOUNCING PILLOW FOR ENDLESS JUMPING

• A 40-FOOT TALL, TWO-LANE ZIPLINE

• A GIANT PENDULUM SWING AND TWO TRAPEZE JUMPS

• FUN AND EXCITING CAMP GAMES SUCH AS SLAP-DODGEBALL AND CAPTURE THE FLAG

• CRAFTS, GAMES, SKITS, AND SNACKS GALORE

FOR 50 YEARS, CAMP THURMAN HAS MET THE NEEDS OF LOCAL KIDS WITH A VARIETY OF CAMP EXPERIENCES INCLUDING:

• CLASSIC DAY CAMP FOR CHILDREN AGES FIVE TO 11, OR ENTERING K-6TH GRADE

• SUNSHINE CAMP A SHORTER DAY FOR YOUNGEST CAMPERS, AGED FOUR

• SWEANEY’S SIDEKICKS A SHORTER DAY FOR CAMPERS MIXED AGES FOUR OR FIVE, PRE-K OR KINDERGARTEN

• ETC CAMP NIGHT CAMP EXPERIENCE FOR CAMPERS ENTERING THE 7TH GRADE

• BREAKOUT CAMP CAMP FOR CAMPERS ENTERING THE 8TH AND 9TH GRADE

• GET-AWAY CAMP AN OVERNIGHT CAMP EXPERIENCE, OUTSIDE THE DFW AREA, FOR CAMPERS ENTERING THE 7TH, 8TH, AND 9TH GRADE

• CIT SERVANT LEADERSHIP PROGRAM TRAINING THE NEXT GENERATION OF STAFF. FOR THOSE CURRENTLY IN 8TH FOR SCHOOL YEAR 2019-2020 VISIT CAMPTHURMAN.ORG TO FIND OUT MORE.

D O W N T O E

A R T H

SENSIBLE WAYS TO UNDERSTAND AND CELEBRATE EARTH DAY THIS MONTH

“ The environment is where we all meet; where all have a mutual interest; it is the one thing all of us share. ” - Lady Bird Johnson

Earth Day was first celebrated on April 22, 1970, which means that Earth Day is turning the big 5-0 this year! What started as a grassroots movement by the late U.S. Senator John McConnell in reaction to a 1969 oil spill off the coast of California is now a worldwide event celebrated in more than 190 countries.

A 50th celebration means it’s time to pull out all the stops for our favorite planet. Every party needs a theme, and this year’s Earth Day theme is climate action.

Here are a few ways you can get involved.

WASTE NOT, WANT NOT

“I only get angry when I see waste. When I see people throwing away things we could use.” - Mother Teresa

The food we eat and the food we waste contributes to more than a quarter of the world’s greenhouse gases. Now, we do live in Texas, and no one is telling you to give up your grill—but simply adding one or two meatless meals to your family’s weekly menu can have a big impact on your food footprint.

Visit local farmers markets to reduce the greenhouse emissions produced in transporting food. Don’t forget to take your reusable bags to the market with you. In addition, make a conscious effort to reduce food waste. If you happen to overbuy, share your bounty with a neighbor.

CHANGE BEGINS AT HOME

“What’s the use of a fine house if you haven’t got a tolerable planet to put it on?” - Henry David Thoreau

It’s easy to write off climate change as an issue for governments to handle, but there are some simple things you can do to impact our environment:

• Reduce water usage by planting native plants which can take the heat of a Texas summer. You can find lists of bee-friendly plants online. Host a party to share plant cuttings with your neighbors.

• Raise your thermostat a couple of degrees this summer.

• Use Earth-friendly cleaning products.

• Host a clothing, book, or toy exchange with your friends.

“Many hands make light work.” - John Heywood

We’re all in this together, so it makes sense to get your workplace involved.

• Organize a recycling competition among co-workers.

• Volunteer together.

• Reduce unnecessary paperwork.

• If you haven’t already instituted a personal ban on disposable cups and straws, this is the time to do so!

PLAN A CLEAN UP

“Clean up, clean up, everybody, everywhere. Clean up, clean up, everybody do your share.” - Barney, the purple dinosaur

Plan a community or neighborhood cleanup. You can even use the Earth Challenge 2020 app to register your cleanup in what is being called the “world’s largest citizen science initiative.”

THE BEAUTIFUL THING ABOUT CONTROLLED BREATHING IS IT CAN CALM THE TORRENT OF THOUGHTS RACING THROUGH YOUR MIND AND RELIEVE ANY TENSION, NEGATIVITY, ANXIETY, AND STRESS THEY CREATE. IT ENABLES YOU ACHIEVE MINDFULNESS AND FOCUS ON THE HERE AND NOW WITHOUT JUDGMENT AND WITHOUT ATTACHMENT TO THE MOMENT.

EASY Breezy

CONTROL YOUR BREATHING TO INFLUENCE YOUR ATTITUDE BY ANNETTE BROOKS

“T

ake a deep breath.” You’ve likely heard this when someone is about to deliver bad news or if you’re in an agitated state, but why? Without getting too scientific, controlled, focused breathing signals your brain to calm down and relax.

In fact, it can relieve stress and anxiety, lower your blood pressure, help with digestion, and may even boost your immune system. Plus, you can practice controlled breathing almost anywhere—in your vehicle, in the office, while waiting in line, or when you take a break from the Internet. Are you ready to try it out?

Controlled Breathing in Its Simplest Form

Controlled breathing can be as basic as focusing on breathing deeply, slowly, and naturally, rhythmically inhaling and exhaling. Sit straight with good but not rigid posture. Relax your shoulders and jaw (keeping your mouth closed without tension or pressure on the jaw joint) then take several slow, deep breaths in and out through your nose if possible. Notice how your body feels. If there are tense spots, relax those muscles then bring your awareness back to your breath. If your mind wanders, acknowledge the sensations, thoughts, or feelings then gently let them go and guide your attention back to breathing. How did you feel while doing this? Pretty wonderful, right? Check out the three easy breathing techniques that follow to expand your controlled breathing repertoire.

Techniques Practically Anyone Can Do

Equal breathing is similar to the basic controlled breathing above, but there’s some counting involved. Inhale and exhale through your nose for four counts each. Once you get this down, try six to eight counts per breath, both in and out.

The 4-7-8 technique aims to reduce anxiety and help you get to sleep. Start by slightly parting your lips part and making whooshing sound as you exhale through your mouth.

Next, close your lips and inhale through your nose as you mentally count to four. Hold your breath for seven seconds then exhale through parted lips for eight seconds. Repeat a few times.

The 7-11 technique can calm your mind and lower blood pressure. Slowly breathe in from your lower diaphragm, inhaling slowly for seven seconds. Then slowly exhale, counting to 11. You should feel your shoulders and neck relaxing. Repeat several times. If you want to work your way up to 7-11, reduce the count to breathing in for three and out for five counts.

Feel the Difference

Whether you use a mix of these techniques, prefer one over the other, or choose one of the many different methods found online, practicing daily controlled breathing feels good. And whenever you feel tension, anxiety, stress, panic, or anger welling up, use it as a tool to stay calm.

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POLLEN MAKES SURPRISING

s winter spring and weeds begin hay fever

Known medically as symptoms–runny, stuffy, and watery eyes, and it’s quite common, it’s Hay fever can reduce draining your energy, and it has a significant impact on our healthcare system. According to Immunology, about form or other, and allergies in the United States.

In Texas, the hay fever season never really ends because of the state’s largely temperate climate. Much of the rest of the nation faces frequent freezes that limit pollen production. Plants in Texas, however, endure only brief freezes, if any at all, allowing them to pollinate all year.

So whatever the season, Texans are bombarded with pollens produced by a huge variety of trees, grasses, and weeds. Oak, fescue, cottonwood, ragweed, and mountain cedar are some of the most common culprits.

Indoors, too

Not all allergens are found outdoors. Inside, tiny dust mites (invisible to the naked eye), mold, pet dander, and some insects are all potentially potent sources of allergens. According to one study, 63 percent of American homes contain cockroach allergens.

Preventive measures

Though you can never completely escape these allergens, you can take preventive measures to reduce the likelihood of being seriously affected by them.

Use local weather reports or online sources to monitor pollen counts and limit outdoor activities when counts are high.

Keep your windows closed and use quality, allergen-resistant filters in your HVAC system.

Bathe and wash your hair daily.

Dry your clothes indoors, not outside.

Wash your bedding in hot, soapy water weekly.

Fix water leaks and clean up water damage that can help mold and pests flourish.

Clean moldy surfaces and any places that mold may form, like humidifiers, air conditioners and refrigerators.

In addition, self-medication with OTC antihistamines can help, and in cases of serious allergic problems, you may need professional medical assistance.

Pollen and Outdoor Exercise

If you suffer from pollen-related allergies, exercising outdoors can be challenging—but it’s not impossible. With a little planning and foresight, you can still enjoy your favorite outdoor activities whatever pollens the winds may be carrying. Here are a few suggestions to keep you moving outside the gym.

Consider medication

You might use an overthe-counter, non-sedating antihistamine to keep your allergic symptoms under control. It’s a good idea to take your medications several weeks before the pollen season peaks in your area, rather than waiting until you have symptoms. Talk to your doctor about recommended OTC or prescription options.

Know your pollens

Experts use a number rating to tell you how much pollen is in the air. You can often get pollen counts from your local weather forecast or you can find the levels of common allergens in your general area by checking the website of the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (aaaai.org/global/ nab-pollen-counts).

Watch the clock

Generally, pollen counts rise during the morning, peak about midday, and then gradually fall. So pollen counts tend to be lowest before dawn, in the late afternoon, and early in the evening.

Use saline spray

After exercising, wash your nose out with saline spray to remove pollen grains.

Watch the weather

Avoid outdoor exercise on dry, warm, windy days as those conditions bring the highest pollen levels. Rain, in contrast, clears the air, making it a good time to exercise once the storm has passed.

Listen to your body

If despite your best efforts you feel overly tired or you still suffer severe allergy symptoms after exercising outdoors, consider limiting your workouts in favor of more indoor exercise.

Whatever your choice–outdoors, indoors, or a mix of the two–for the sake of both your physical and mental wellbeing, keep moving!

SPRING Skincare

TIPS FOR MAKING YOUR SKIN FEEL AS FRESH AS THE WEATHER

ake a look at your products

TWhen preparing for spring, don’t forget to spring clean your skincare products and cosmetics. Purge anything that is past its prime or was the wrong formula for your skin type. Spring is all about fresh starts—not dried out cosmetics or soupy cleansers!

To make things easy, use a permanent marker to write the date you begin using a new product. Cleansers, moisturizers, serums, and toners usually have a shelf life of six months to one year. If you haven’t used it within that time, it probably isn’t a product you love anyway.

While you’re purging products that are past their prime, spend some time spring cleaning your makeup brushes. Wash your sheets and pillowcases often, too. Clean sheets (especially pillowcases) help prevent breakouts.

Mother knew best

Your guide for good skin any time of the year reads like a four-part lecture from your mom about the benefits of healthy living:

Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated. Water flushes toxins from your body, helps generate new cells, and even helps reduce the appearance of fine lines.

Get enough sleep. Your levels of the stress hormone cortisol falls during sleep, which helps skin repair daytime damage.

Exercise to keep the blood pumping and give you a healthy glow. Wash your face before and after a workout to avoid clogged pores.

Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Your skin needs vitamins and nutrients to help you put your best face forward.

Exfoliate from head to toe

As we age, our skin becomes less effective at sloughing off the old cells. A gentle exfoliating scrub can give your skin a brighter appearance. Using an exfoliator on a regular basis can increase collagen production. How often you should exfoliate depends on your skin, so start off with once a week and see how your skin responds.

Moisturize

Since skin typically gets more oily as temperatures rise, spring is the perfect time to switch to a lighter moisturizer. If you normally use a foundation and moisturizer, you might want to try using a tinted moisturizer instead. This lighter weight option will leave you looking spring fresh.

Don’t pass on the sunscreen

Sunscreen is not just for tropical vacations or lounging by the pool. Use sunscreen every day, rain or shine. There is a sunscreen formula for everyone, regardless of skin type. Look for a product with an SPF of 30 or above. Use it alone or apply it under your makeup. This tip is for anyone with skin, but it is imperative for anyone using a retinol product.

Did You Know???

1 in 9 adults are diagnosed with colorectal cancer before the age of

Colon Cancer Prevention Tips

• Get a colonoscopy screening after age 45

• Eat a balanced diet

• Maintain a healthy weight & healthy lifestyle

• Don’t smoke

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CHIP’S KITCHENS AND BATHS

YOUR ONE-STOP SHOP FOR COMPLETE KITCHEN AND BATH RENOVATIONS

BY MEREDITH KNIGHT

The kitchen has long been the hub of the home. From creating unforgettable meals to baking on rainy days with the kids, from entertaining friends and family to connecting over morning coffee, the kitchen is the most used room in the house. Then, there’s the bath, your own private sanctuary. No matter what the day throws at you, your bathroom waits to help you decompress and unwind in welcome solitude.

Since 1976, Chip’s Kitchens and Baths has partnered with families throughout DFW to create those kitchens and bathrooms and make your house a home—not to mention giving a healthy boost to your resale value. But they don’t stop there. Family rooms, home offi ces, and more can all benefit from their three and a half decades of experience.

The name of the game is CUSTOM. After all, who wants a kitchen or bathroom like everyone else’s? Chip’s Kitchens and Baths specializes in custom design

“WE COULDN’T HAVE BEEN MORE PLEASED WITH THE ENTIRE PROCESS OF WORKING WITH CHIP’S KITCHEN & BATH. FROM THE SALES PROCESS AND DESIGN WITH BILL, TO THE PROJECT MANAGEMENT AND COMPLETION WITH CHUCK. VERY PROFESSIONAL FROM THE BEGINNING AND WE ABSOLUTELY LOVE THE FINISHED PROJECT. TIMELY, FAIR PRICE, AND FANTASTIC QUALITY.” BEFORE

using only hand-built cabinetry constructed locally in the DFW Metroplex. Unlike their competitors, they complete all cabinets in controlled environments for hand fi nishing, assuring you of high-quality, unique, and truly custom cabinetry for your dream home project.

Whether you’re adding custom cabinets, renovating your kitchens, reimagining your bathroom, or upgrading any other rooms of the houses, Chip’s Kitchens and Baths will utilize the best

materials available, and work with superior vendors they’ve partnered with for years. All Chip’s Kitchens and Baths cabinets are solid wood or plywood, including all interior shelves. They custom design each kitchen or bathroom to the homeowner’s specification, using the highest-quality ingredients.

You choose the design of your room, the colors, the fl ooring, the countertops, and wall fi nishes with expert advice and guidance, when you need it. The Chip’s

SEE IT BEFORE YOUR BUILD IT DESIGN SOFTWARE ALLOWS YOU TO TAKE A VIRTUAL TOUR AND VIEW THE ENTIRE ROOM BEFORE YOUR RENOVATION BEGINS. ONCE YOU SEE THE PRELIMINARY DESIGN, YOU CAN MAKE CHANGES QUICKLY AND EASILY.

“WE HAD THE BEST POSSIBLE EXPERIENCE FOR A REMODEL. THE RESULTS EXCEEDED ALL EXPECTATIONS AND, AFTER SEVERAL MONTHS OF LIVING WITH THE NEW KITCHEN AND BATHROOM, WE CONTINUE TO BE THRILLED. THE KITCHEN CABINETS ARE THE CORNERSTONE OF WHAT WE WANTED TO DO, AND THEY’RE SO WELL DESIGNED AS FAR AS USE OF SPACE AND DEVELOPMENT OF “DENIM WASH” COLOR/TECHNIQUE. CHIPS TOOK OUR SMALL GUEST BATHROOM AND MADE IT ONE OF THE SHOW PIECES OF OUR HOME.”

Kitchens and Baths team of artisans and craftsmen measures each job then works with you to design your dream kitchen, offi ce, entertainment room, or bathroom. Once you’ve approved the plans, they take over seamlessly to ensure your peace of mind from inception to completion keeping timing and budget.

Whatever your project involves, they’ll help you fi nd solutions and work tirelessly to make sure you’re 100% satisfi ed.

ARPDALE RESIDENCE, IN AUSTIN’S ZILKER NEIGHBORHOOD

SECOND Story

TWO ELEVATIONS AND TWO FACADES CREATE AIRY OPENNESS AND CLEVER COMFORT

ARCHITECTURE BY COXIST STUDIO – MEGAN AND FRANK LIN, AND BETH MURPHY

BUILT AND DEVELOPED BY FIA HOMES STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING BY JM STRUCTURAL PHOTOS BY ATELIER WONG PHOTOGRAPHY

ABOUT THE ARCHITECTS:

coXist is a contemporary architecture firm dedicated to making an impact on each client’s way of living through thoughtful and human-driven design. coXist was formed on the principle that the best design is one that reflects human experience through memory, sense of place, and engaging all five senses. coXiststudio.com

Leveling Up Situated on a prominent corner lot, this home’s second story is site to help de-scale the corner and create spectacular vistas of the unique folded roof and the courtyard below.

Comforting Courtyard The interior courtyard features plenty of areas for lounging, a pool, and easy access to communal areas as well as the downstairs bedroom.

Stepping In Multiple varieties and stains of wood are situated throughout the home, while can and recessed lighting provide light in addition to numerous windows.

Getting Together Public spaces like the kitchen and living areas are located in direct relationship to the courtyard formed around the U-shaped layout, giving the feel of bringing the outside in.

Staying Connected Natural light filters through the home and even into the upstairs areas, like this media room adjacent to a guest bedroom, to give the home an airy, open feel.

Relaxing Respite In addition to a glass-paneled shower and dual sink vanity, the bathroom also hosts a soaking tub and ceiling-level clerestory style windows to allow natural light without sacrificing privacy.

TERRIFIC Turf

SEVEN STEPS TO A LUSH LAWN YOU CAN LOVE ALL SUMMER

our lawn is the canvas of your yard, and with a little preparation, yours can become a masterpiece this summer. Whether you prefer to get your hands dirty or enlist a little help, here’s what you can expect.

Step 1: Tune up

If you cut your own grass, have your mower serviced, making sure to check the spark plug, oil, fittings, any filters, clean the underside of the mowing deck, and have your blade sharpened. You should also ensure any trimmers have fresh string and any batteries are still good.

Step 2: Clean Up

Once the ground is dry, yard debris is the thing to focus on, including twigs, acorns, stones, branches, and dead leaves. An air blower is the easiest method, but you can also rake the debris into piles, then onto a large tarp and easily bag and carry the debris away.

Step 3: Cut

After cleaning, your grass should be cut on the highest setting, leaving 3 to 4 inches of length. Grass that is initially cut too short can weaken the roots, causing stunted growth and dull color.

Step 4: Aerate and scarify

Next, your lawn needs to be aerated and/or scarifed. Outside of cutting, removing the thatch (those woven whitish-brown dead patches) is vital. Thatch limits movement of water, air, fertilizer, and other nutrients. Forks or a spike roller should be used to create holes of at least 20 centimeters deep into the soil. Scarifying (which should be done once a year) is the more invasive, mechanical raking of the lawn.

Step 5: Weed and Feed

Use a combination of fertilizer, which feeds your grass, and pre-emergent, an herbicide that prevents weeds and crabgrass. Six to eight weeks later, apply again, along with a broadleaf weed killer. Many lawn brands offer a combination pre-emergent and weed killer in one, lowering the cost and the application time.

Step 6: Fill in Bare Spots

Loosen the bare soil with a garden rake, then distribute an even layer of seed. Lightly rake the seeds into the soil, water well, and loosely cover with hay to discourage birds and prevent washout. Spouts should appear in about three weeks. Most seed manufacturers make mixes designed for quickly growing grass on bald spots.

Step 7: Irrigate

Water slowly, deeply, and infrequently. Watering every day creates “wet feet,” making the grass more susceptible to diseases. Fair amounts of water dispensed less frequently (once or twice a week) makes for strong roots.

Getting your lawn summer ready requires some time and effort (or a lawn professional who can take care of this for you), but once you have a lush green lawn, you’ll wonder how you ever did without.

In & Out

A brief guide to starting your garden

By Samantha Gluck

As the bright, yet still cool, spring months approach, thoughts of starting an herb or vegetable garden start to whisper in the minds of many. One of the easiest ways to get started now is to sow your seeds in small pots inside, then transplant them outside to a prepared bed, or large terracotta pots, when they reach the right size.

You’ll need to keep your planting zone in mind when you get started. Most of Texas falls somewhere in zones seven through nine, with Dallas in 8a and Houston in 9a. Check out a map by visiting GardeningKnowHow.com and clicking on USDA Planting Zones in the “Gardening Help” drop-down menu. If you’re in a colder zone, you’ll need to nurture your seedlings inside a bit longer than in the southern climes.

Your quick start garden guide

STEP 1: BUY YOUR SEEDS

Head out to your nearest garden store and buy seeds for the herbs, vegetables, and flowers you hope to cultivate this spring. Try hardy herbs like rosemary, oregano, and parsley. Tomatoes fare well in warmer Texas weather as do cucumbers and many pepper varieties. Texas bluebonnets, daisies, and Mexican sunflowers are examples of flowers which grow well in the Lone Star state’s spring climate.

STEP 2: GATHER MATERIALS

Buy or upcycle some shallow containers, such as paper pots or even egg carton bottoms. Purchase rich gardening soil from your local garden store and put a heap of it in a large container and moisten it. Divide soil into the tiny peat pots or egg cartons.

STEP 3: READY, SET, PLANT

Now that you have everything ready, check out the planting instructions on the back of the packets. Plant most of your seeds inside about four to six weeks prior to the projected last frost date.

Position your newly planted seeds on or near a windowsill that gets at least six hours of sun a day. Some people place the containers in plastic bags and close tightly to prevent dry soil, while many others prefer to simply give the soil a light mist every other day or so.

STEP 4: HARDEN AND TRANSPLANT

Once your seedlings have four leaves, you must “harden them off” by moving them outdoors for part of the day. Introduce them gradually to full sunlight, dry air, and cool nights. This process will take about 10 days. Afterwards, it’s time to transplant in your prepared bed(s) or large terracotta pots filled with rich, amended soil.

It’s really not too difficult to get your garden growing strong. There’s nothing more satisfying than snipping herbs and harvesting vegetables from your own garden to use in recipes served to family and friends. And you’ll have watched them grow every step of the way!

THE CITY Up North

ONE TEXAN RECONSIDERS A REVITALIZED OKLAHOMA CITY

BY JENNIFER SIMONSON

“T

his is Wednesday, April the 19th, 1995,” a woman’s voice announces on a crackly tape recording played at the start of a self-guided tour through the Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum. The woman is moderating a board meeting to settle a case involving a resident’s request to bottle and sell groundwater. She starts recording at 9:00 AM, exactly two minutes before an explosion two blocks away will redefine the city from that point forward.

As the moderator talks I tense up. I catch myself holding my breath, waiting for the sound of the impending explosion, like being on a carnival ride knowing the bottom will fall out below you, just not when. I remind myself to breathe as the seconds tick away, then feel it pause as I listen to the recording distort with the sound of the blast.

Up until the trip, the bombing was the primary thing I had associated with the city. I had heard faint rumblings of its cool, up-and-coming vibe, along with a relatively recently-formed NBA team, but I hadn’t paid much attention to the metropolis in the north until last year, when a fellow travel writer raved about all the wonderful things to do in the city.

”We have an Olympic-worthy whitewater rafting course that runs through downtown, a huge park with hiking and biking trails, a downtown minor league baseball stadium, and a thriving arts and restaurant scene,” she said.

“Wait, in Oklahoma City?” I had to double check that I had heard her correctly.

It might have been my “superior Texas demeanor,” but while growing up in Dallas I always pictured the city three hours north as nothing more than a flat, dusty wasteland. Until recently, one could have made a case that I wasn’t that far off. Oklahoma City has a long history of ups and downs. The

”WE HAVE AN OLYMPIC-WORTHY WHITEWATER RAFTING COURSE THAT RUNS THROUGH DOWNTOWN, A HUGE PARK WITH HIKING AND BIKING TRAILS, A DOWNTOWN MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL STADIUM, AND A THRIVING ARTS AND RESTAURANT SCENE”

city hit rock bottom in 1991, when after offering $120 million to entice United Airlines to build its maintenance base in the city, the company refused, citing the reason that they could not in good conscience ask their employees to live there. Ouch.

After that, the mayor was able to talk the citizens of this deeply conservative city into approving a one-cent sales tax to fund special civic projects. Slowly but surely, while few people outside of the

state were paying attention, city leaders used that money to rebuild the downtown into a destination-worthy area.

Six months after talking to my travel writer friend, I find myself driving up I-35 to check it all out. Along the way are a variety of attractions that are destinations in their own right, including the impressively ostentatious WinStar World Casino and Resort, the largest casino in the United States, featuring a highway-facing façade of exterior architecture lifted from travel

destinations around the world (perhaps hence the name) that will have your head on a swivel until it’s a dot in the distance. Turner Falls Park (with an impressive and also titular waterfall), famous pastries at Arbuckle Mountain Fried Pies, and the Chickasaw Cultural Center are a few other notable stops that can make the short journey a day trip of its own, if you’re so inclined.

When I arrive, I check in at the Skirvin Hotel. Built in 1911 during an oil boom, it is one of the only historic hotels to have survived the city’s bust periods—though just barely. The hotel began to struggle in the 1960s as people abandoned downtown for the suburbs, before finally closing during the oil bust of 1988. It sat empty for almost 20 years. Then, in 2005, like much of downtown, developers poured millions of dollars into its reconstruction. The lobby, with its marble floors, stained wood, and gold leaf, is the pinnacle of early 1900s elegance.

During my weekend in Oklahoma City I see an Andy Warhol exhibition at the National Cowboy Museum, eat a farm-to-table kale salad in a former Model T showroom space, drink horchata lattes at a Latin American cafe, wander around Spanish revival architecture that houses the twenty art studios in the Paseo Arts District, watch an Oklahoma City Thunder game in the city’s new downtown arena, walk through part of a 70-acre park, hop on a streetcar for a ride through downtown, view artwork at a free art museum that never closes, and sample local beer at three breweries. A far cry from the Oklahoma City I’ve long kept in my mind.

recently, off. Oklahoma City has a long history of ups and downs. The

And yet, among the revitalization, the memories of 25 years ago remain. They’re reflected in the impressive Oklahoma City National Memorial that I stop by late one evening. It sits outside the museum on the footprint of the former Murrah building. A field of 168 glass chairs, one for each victim of the bombing, rests in front of a black granite pool. At night, the chairs light up, with the reflecting pool’s flowing grabbing that light and reflecting it back. Visitors are encouraged to take a seat, listen to the running water, reflect on the past, and breathe.

OLYMPIC-WORTHY COURSE THAT DOWNTOWN, A HUGE BIKING MINOR LEAGUE A THRIVING ARTS AND RESTAURANT SCENE”

SHUFFLESUMMER CAMP

ODDS AND ENDS AS YOUR KIDDO PREPARES TO EMBARK

BY MIMI GREENWOOD KNIGHT

According to The American Camp Association, 11 million children attend summer camp in the US each year. That’s millions of kids spreading their wings, learning new skills, and making friendships and memories to last a lifetime.

The benefits of summer camp are plentiful. The right summer camp can get your child out of their neighborhood and familiar circle of friends, not to mention out from under your watchful gaze, where they can take some— safe—supervised—don’t worry—risks.

A GOOD CAMP PROGRAM FOSTERS:

INDEPENDENCE

TEAMWORK

CREATIVITY

SELF-WORTH COMMUNICATION

RESPONSIBILITY

RESILIENCE

FAIRNESS

TRUSTWORTHINESS COMPASSION

Camp is a great time for your child to dive deeper into the things that already interest them or to explore things they know little about. There’s a camp for most interests, be they sports or computer, cheerleading or art, martial arts or music, cooking or even farming.

PREPARING THEM FOR OVERNIGHT CAMP

The secret to a happy summer camp experience may be in the preparation you do beforehand. Overnight camp can feel intense because it’s 24 hours a day without a break at home. That’s exciting but it can also be intimidating. Your child may worry about fitting in socially at camp, being away from your support, or feeling pressure to succeed at new activities. Here are some things that can help.

Review the camp’s brochure or website with them. Or if possible, attend an open house while camp is in session so your child can get a stronger sense of what to expect.

Consider scheduling a family camping trip before camp to give your child exposure to sleeping in primitive conditions with night sounds and strange bugs.

Inquire ahead of time about things like whether your child will be expected to walk to the bathroom alone at night. If so, let them practice with a flashlight.

Involve your child in packing to give them a feeling of ownership over the experience. If your child is attached to a “lovey” or sentimental item, let them bring it along.

If your child doesn’t share a bedroom at home, go over the basic courtesy of cohabitation. Show them how to contain their possessions so they don’t spill over into someone else’s space. Consider having slumber parties or allowing your child to attend more sleepovers to expose them to group living.

Explain what to do with dirty clothes, especially wet ones that can mildew.

Discuss how you’ll communicate (or not) while your child is away.

Consider writing a letter in advance you can slip into your child’s suitcase, or mail one that’ll be waiting when they arrive.

More than anything, let your child know they can discuss their feelings about summer camp. If they’re feeling nervous or scared, assure them it’s perfectly normal. If you’re feeling the same way though, best not to let it show. Your child may take this as a sign they have something to worry about. Instead tell your child, “We’re excited for you and all you’ll get to do at camp. We know you’re going to make us proud.”

LIGHT & Fluffy

WITH THE FRESH FEELING OF SPRING STARTING TO ROLL IN, WE TURN OUR ATTENTION TO THREE FUN DISHES THAT ARE THE PERFECT FIT.

BY MELISSA TATE

BANH MI BOWLS

MAKES: 4 BOWLS TIME: ABOUT 1 HOUR

INGREDIENTS: FOR THE BOWLS: 4 cups cooked white rice | 1 cup shredded purple cabbage | 1 cup pickled matchstick cut carrots | 1 cup radishes, halved and sliced | 1 medium size cucumber, sliced | 1 jalapeño, sliced | 2 green onions, diced | 6 sprigs fresh cilantro | 4 lime wedges, 1 lime quartered FOR THE MEAT MIXTURE: 1 Tbsp. sesame oil | 1 pound ground beef | 1 tsp. salt | 1 tsp. pepper | 3 green onions, finely chopped | 4 tsp. minced garlic | ½ Tbsp. soy sauce | ½ Tbsp. rice vinegar | 1 Tbsp. Sriracha | 1 Tbsp. sugar | ¼ cup basil, finely chopped FOR THE SAUCE: ½ cup mayonnaise | 3 Tbsp. fresh squeezed lime juice (about 2 small limes) | 1 Tbsp. Sriracha

DIRECTIONS: COOK the rice according to package directions. While it cooks, make the sauce by whisking together mayo, lime juice, and Sriracha. Cover sauce and chill in refrigerator. FOR THE MEAT MIXTURE , heat sesame oil in a large pan over medium high heat. ADD beef, salt, and pepper. Cook through, crumbling as you cook. STIR in green onions and garlic. COOK 2 to 3 more minutes. STIR in soy sauce, rice vinegar, Sriracha, and sugar. REMOVE from heat and stir in chopped basil. PREPARE the bowls by placing 1 cup cooked rice and ¼ cup cabbage in each bowl. Top with about ½ cup beef mixture per bowl. DISPERSE pickled carrots, radishes, cucumber, jalapeño, green onion, cilantro, and lime to each bowl. DRIZZLE with sauce and serve.

TIPS AND TRICKS TO PICKLE YOUR OWN CARROTS, COMBINE MATCHSTICK CUT CARROTS, ¼ CUP RICE VINEGAR, ¼ CUP SUGAR, AND 1 TSP. SALT IN A LARGE BOWL. LET STAND AT ROOM TEMPERATURE FOR ONE HOUR, STIRRING EVERY 15 MINUTES.

IF YOU AREN’T A FAN OF SPICY FOOD, SKIP THE SRIRACHA IN THE MEAT MIXTURE AND THE JALAPEÑOS. LEAVE THE SRIRACHA IN THE SAUCE MIXTURE AS THE LIME JUICE AND MAYO DULL THE SPICINESS.

FOOLPROOF POPOVERS

MAKES: 12 POPOVERS | TIME: ABOUT 25 MINUTES

INGREDIENTS: 3 Tbsp. butter, melted | 2 eggs | 1 cup lukewarm milk | 1 cup flour | 1 tsp. salt

DIRECTIONS: PREHEAT oven to 400 ˚F. USING a brush, use 1 Tbsp. of the melted butter to coat 12 cups of a muffin tin and put the tin in the oven for 5 minutes. MEANWHILE, mix the eggs in a blender until light yellow. Add the warmed milk and blend. Add the flour, salt, and remaining melted butter. BLEND until smooth. Pour the batter into the warmed muffin tin, about ¼ cup in each tin, and return it to the oven to bake until golden, about 20 minutes. REMOVE from oven and serve warm.

TIPS & TRICKS: A popover is a light roll similar to Yorkshire pudding. There are dedicated popover pans, but using muffin tins works just as well. Popovers can be served with fruit and whipped cream for a sweet treat or softened butter at dinner time.

MARMIE’S LEMON CREME

MAKES: 10 TO 12 SERVINGS TIME: 10 MINUTES + 4 HOUR COOL

INGREDIENTS: 1 small box of lemon flavored gelatin | 1½ cups boiling water | 1 (7 oz.) jar marshmallow creme | 1 cup heavy cream

DIRECTIONS: EMPTY marshmallow creme into a large mixing bowl and set aside. BRING 1½ cups of water to a boil. Remove from heat and immediately dissolve gelatin into water. POUR over marshmallow creme and stir until completely combined. REFRIGERATE until cooled, stirring occasionally to not let gelatin solidify. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream with a mixer until soft, firm peaks form . ADD whipped cream to cooled gelatin marshmallow mixture. STIR and fold until completely mixed. REFRIGERATE for several hours until creme sets.

TIPS & TRICKS: In Marmie’s words, “This is a sweet addition for the salad or dessert plate. Especially good at Easter with all the spring vegetables and colorful salads.”

PHOTOS & FOOD BY MELISSA TATE

To follow her cooking 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

BIG BREAD ENERGY

It’s a great time of year to bake some bread (when isn’t it?), and if you want to get interesting, you can make your own bread right outta the past with some 1847 Oregon Trail Sourdough Starter, which some kindhearted bread fans will mail to you free of charge. All you need is a self-addressed stamped envelope.

NO CHARGE, CARLSFRIENDS.NET

BEE’S KNEES

Fill your home with some delightfully breathable scents courtesy of our state’s fair bees and The Beeswax Co based in Dripping Springs, who have been making fine beeswax candles for the last decade and a half. You can even get ones that look like Texas.

$18, BEESWAXCO.COM

GET LOUD

Turn up the volume with this lightweight spray from verb, which will help boost your hair’s style just in time for spring without parabens, gluten, harmful sulfates, or animal cruelty, whether you’re rocking wavy, straight, curly, or fine hair.

$18, VERBPRODUCTS.COM

GOING GAGA

Superstar recording artist/Oscar winner Lady Gaga is set to release her sixth studio album, titled Chromatica , this month, a return to her dance music style after 2016’s stripped down Joanne and 2018’s soundtrack album to the film

A Star is Born [Photo: SMP Entertainment/ Vimeo.com: CC BY 3.0]

APRIL 10, WHEREVER YOU GET YOUR AUDIO

SAY WHAT NOW?

It’s rare to witness the launch of what amounts to an entirely new network, but that’s exactly how Quibi wants us to treat the launch of their more than 50(!) new shows from creators like Steven Spielberg, Chrissy Teigen, and Reese Witherspoon. They’ll all appear exclusively for mobile in 10-minute daily episodes they’re calling “quick bites.”

$5 OR $8 PER MONTH, QUIBI.COM