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E N TE R TA I N M E N T

TH E GIFT O F TIM E F O O D + B E V E R AG E

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The Holiday Table D E C E M B E R 2 022

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December 2022 PUBLISHER

Jane Krzysiak | jane.krzysiak@citylifestyle.com

LIFESTYLE LETTER

EDITOR

It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year

Stephanie Hasbrouck stephanie.hasbrouck@citylifestyle.com SOCIAL MEDIA COOR DINATOR

Rachel Medina | rachel.medina@citylifestyle.com AD DESIGNER

Hunter Richie LAYOUT DESIGNER

The holidays are here and as the spirit of the season is among us, we often try to replicate what made the season feel so magical to us in our youth. The traditions we set for our own families often mirror some of what we experienced as a child. For me, driving to my grandparent’s farm on Christmas Eve to exchange gifts with cousins is a favorite memory. When I had my own children, we continued that tradition but added on the special gift of opening Christmas pajamas that our kids would wear on the ride back home. As you prepare for this magical season, we offer a few suggestions to make your season meaningful and cheery. Editor Stephanie Hasbrouck shares family favorites in “Baking Memories.” “Hot Chocolate Bombs” remain popular decadent treats that take hot cocoa to the next level and can be fun gifts. In “Perfect Pairings,” Laura Black, owner of CLINK Wine Bar + Bites offers wine pairing advice for holiday party planning. Handy information to have as you plot out “The Holiday Table,” with interior designer Kristy Mastrandonas’ keen eye and advice on creating an enchanting holiday table. Looking for the perfect gift? “Gifts That Do Good” provides the opportunity to make an impact on top of buying a fab present. And, for the person who has everything – what about “The Gift of Time?” Experiences make the best presents, and we are sharing some of our favorites. In “Local Experiences – Winter Celebrations,” we give a quick list of the merriest places to be this December – parades, concerts, there is something for everyone! Finally, in the spirit of giving, “The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign” enters its third year. This year we will gift more than $300,000 to our local communities for those in need. Nominations are open from Dec. 1 – 15. To submit a nomination, follow @citylifestyle on Instagram and fill out the form found in the bio link. Let’s bless someone together! Merry Christmas

Antanette Ray CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Stephanie Hasbrouck CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Kristy Mastrandonas, Dawn Michelle Photography, Melissa Claire Photography

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Randy Radosevich DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

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Proverbs 3:5-6 Cross Timbers Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Cross Timbers area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Cross Timbers Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but

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the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

DECEMBER 2022

inside the issue The Holiday & Giving Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

18 Perfect Pairings

Lifestyle Letter

Laura Black, Owner of CLINK Wine Bar + Bites offers Wine Pairing Advice

City Scene

for Holiday Party Planning

Business Monthly

Local Experiences

Our Town

Culinary Creations

Gift Guide

Inspired By

Must See

Giving Back

Events

How To

22 Baking Memories

Make These Festive Family Favorites A Holiday Tradition

28 The Holiday Table

Interior Designer Kristy Mastrandonas Shares Advice on Creating an Enchanting Holiday Table

32 The Gift of Time

Experiences Make the Best Presents, and Here Are Some of Our Favorites

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Kristy Mastrandonas Interior Designer Kristy Mastrandonas creates a warm and welcoming winter table.

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DECEMBER 2022

city scene

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TOWN OF FLOWER MOUND LEWISVILLE ISD

TOWN OF FLOWER MOUND

7 5

TOWN OF FLOWER MOUND

LEWISVILLE ISD

HIGHLAND VILLAGE POLICE DEPARTMENT

1-3: The Town of Flower Mound celebrated its first Diwali: Festival of Lights. 4: Congratulations to Riley Letterman and Ally Horton, Marcus Homecoming 2022 King and Queen. 5: Dan Jaworski, Megan Racca, Chris Sanders, Dorrie Loughborough, Dallas Miles and Kelly Sudderth were inducted into the MHS Hall of Fame. 6: Congratulations to Jack Grubbs and Amanda Watson, FMHS Homecoming 2022 King and Queen. 7: The TXFallenPD Tribute Event 2022 was a big success. CONTINUED >

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8-14: Children’s Advocacy Center North Texas celebrated 25 years and raised more than $1 million on Oct. 1 at its Champions for Children Gala! Photography by Melissa Claire of Melissa Claire Photography

CONTINUED >

C I T Y SC E N E

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15-21: Flower Mound Chamber of Commerce celebrated 40 years & Fiesta on Oct. 22 with an 80’s flair.

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DECEMBER 2022

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

John Walker Named Chief Executive Officer at Medical City Lewisville

Whitney Bendel Named Chief Financial Officer at Medical City Lewisville

John Walker has been named Chief Executive Officer at Medical City Lewisville. John previously served as chief operating officer at Medical City Denton, where his steady leadership, focus on exceptional quality, dedication to physician collaboration and colleague support and vision for strategic growth contributed to facility-wide enhancements. During his tenure, the Level II Trauma Center earned recognition for outstanding patient care and quality, including a Leapfrog Group “A” safety rating.

Whitney Bendel has been named Chief Financial Officer at Medical City Lewisville. Whitney previously served as vice president of finance at Medical City Dallas, where she led all financial operations areas; partnered on strategic growth initiatives and large-scale capital projects; and was instrumental in building processes to track volume, revenue and financials to keep the campuses' growth agenda intact. Photography Medical City Lewisville

Photography Medical City Lewisville

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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

Mark Cuban Visits Lewisville High School’s Entrepreneur Class Lewisville High School’s INCubatoredu course has been described as a version of the hit television show Shark Tank for students. So it was only fitting that the famous Shark Mark Cuban visit the class to share his expertise. He spent nearly two hours with students and staff talking about being an entrepreneur and giving advice. Photography Lewisville ISD

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The Little Gym and Snapology Open in Flower Mound

Nautical Bowls is Coming to Flower Mound

The Little Gym and Snapology are now open at 5801 Long Prairie Road, near Hobby Lobby. The Little Gym offers progressively structured classes and a positive learning environment to help children learn new things and build self-confidence. Trained instructors nurture children through a range of classes and host parties, camps and more. Snapology offers children a chance to build their STEAM skills as they take part in fun weekly classes and programs. For more information, visit snapology.com/location/flower-mound and thelittlegym.com/ FlowerMoundTX.

Nautical Bowls is coming to 4610 Long Prairie Road, Suite 130. The superfoods restaurant uses organic, gluten-free, dairy-free and plantbased ingredients. The menu includes superfood bowls with ingredients like acai, granola, cacao, coconut flakes and fruit. For more information, visit nauticalbowls.com.

Ramen Izakaya Akira Opening in Lakeside Ramen Izakaya Akira is opening Flower Mound. The Japanese ramen restaurant will be located at 2600 Lakeside Pkwy., Suite 120, next to The Tavern at Lakeside. With more than 20 years of experience, Chef Akira Imamura creates traditional Japanese ramen with an Italian twist. For more information, visit ramenizakayaakira.com. Photography Town of Flower Mound

Photography Town of Flower Mound

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DECEMBER 2022

local experiences The best places and things to do in our area.

Experience the magic that the area has to offer this season. We've curated a list of festive ways to celebrate the holidays and usher in the new year. Enjoy!

Winter Celebrations FLOWER MOUND CHR ISTMAS PAR ADE AND TR EE LIGHTING: Ring in the holidays with the Town of Flower Mound’s annual Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting ceremony on Dec. 3. 2121 Cross Timbers Road, Flower Mound, TX VOICES OF FLOWER MOUND CHR ISTMAS CONCER TS: Celebrate the holiday season at the Voices of Flower Mound's Christmas Concerts Dec. 10 and 11. The concerts are fun and engaging for the entire family. 6101 Morriss Road, Flower Mound, TX GAYLOR D TEXAN R ESOR T : Unwrap the joy of the season at the Gaylord Texan Resort. Visit the amazing Polar Express ICE! and enjoy Merry & Light. 1501 Gaylord Trail Grapevine, TX THE NUTCR ACKER : Texas Ballet Theater presents The Nutcracker Dec. 9-24 at Bass Performance Hall. Experience the beauty and magic of the season through this beloved performance. 525 Commerce Street, Fort Worth, TX BR EAKFAST WITH SANTA AT THE CAC : Santa!! He's coming to Flower Mound on Dec. 10. Enjoy a hearty pancake breakfast with the big guy and some arts and crafts at the CAC. 1200 Gerault Road Flower Mound, TX

Scan for more photos and the full list. Photography Flower Mound Parks and Recreation

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Perfect Pairings Laura Black, Owner of CLINK Wine Bar + Bites offers Wine Pairing Advice for Holiday Party Planning ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE HASBROUCK PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAWN MICHELLE PHOTOGRAPHY, CONTRIBUTED When it comes to holiday party food, appetizers and wine often are the stars of the show. It’s important to know what wines go well with the food that is served because the wine helps showcase the flavors of the food and vice versa. “To me, proper wine pairing is drinking a wine you really enjoy with foods you really enjoy. That being said, there are many classic pairings out there because they just work. The food and the wine are both elevated when they are paired together,” says

Laura Black, Owner of CLINK Wine Bar + Bites. “A perfect example is one of my favorites, Champagne or Crémant with buttery popcorn. The buttery popcorn plays off the bright, citrusy bubbles for an amazing push-pull on your palate that keeps you going back for more of each.” Now that we’ve all added popcorn and champagne to our appetizer menus, we asked Laura to offer some more classical wine-appetizer pairings. Be sure to take notes. This is going to make holiday party planning a breeze. CONTINUED >

O UR TOWN | FOOD + BEVE RAGE

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TOMATO-BASIL BRUSCHETTA “With this dish, I would stick with Italian wines,” Laura says. “Think reds, like a Chianti Classico or Dolcetto that have red fruit flavors of cherry and raspberry, violet with hints of balsamic. If you want to do whites, I think Italian whites like Vernaccia or Pinot Bianco would pair nicely.

MEET & CHEESE BOARD “A classic pairing with meat and cheese will always be bubbles,” Laura says. “You could do something like a Spanish Cava or a Rosé Prosecco. A fun and off-the-beatenpath pairing would be a classic Lambrusco. This wine is a red that is served chilled and has blackberry, blueberry and dark cherry flavors. In Italy, it is often paired with cured meats. The wine is frizzante, so not fully sparkling, but has some effervescence, which is nice.”

COCKTAIL MEATBALLS “Pair with an Italian Barbera that has notes of plum, cherry, spice and earth,” Laura says. “Those flavors will work well with the sweet and somewhat spicy flavors of the meatballs.”

SPINACH-ARTICHOKE DIP “White wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Gruner Veltliner would work really well here,” she says. “Sauvignon Blancs tend to be herbaceous with a lemongrass and citrus quality that will pair well with the spinach and artichoke, as well as the cheese.”

BAKED BRIE “There are so many presentations for baked brie out there, but one favorite is wrapped in puff pastry with cranberries and pecans. For this, I would suggest a Willamette Valley Pinot Noir,” Laura says. “Pinots from that area have an earthy quality with hints of mushroom and cranberry that will make the baked brie really shine.”

O UR TOWN | FOOD + BEVE RAGE

“To me, proper wine pairing is drinking a wine you really enjoy with foods you really enjoy. That being said, there are many classic pairings out there because they just work. The food and the wine are both elevated when they are paired together.”

DATES STUFFED WITH HONEY GOAT CHEESE “Serve with a French Vouvray that is off-dry. This wine is not really sweet but not totally dry either, and it has notes of honey, apricot and pear,” Laura explains. “It will complement the dates and the honey goat cheese.” For even more holiday menu inspiration, be sure to visit CLINK Wine Bar + Bites and enjoy the fabulous menu paired with the perfect wines. CLINK now offers wine flights of three 2-ounce pours, which is a wonderful way to try a new grape, region or wine style. In addition to its famous tapas-style menu items, CLINK now offers largeplate options, including Maple Dusted Texas Quail, Scottish Salmon, Roasted Mushroom Tart and Shrimp Pil Pil. “So,” Laura says, “if your group wants to come in for a private event in our back room or just grab a table and have dinner with a friend during the holidays, these items are great for one person or to share.” For more information on CLINK Wine Bar + Bites, visit clinkwinebarandbitesfmtx.com.

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Baking Memories MAKE THESE FAMILY FAVORITES A HOLIDAY TRADITION Baking makes the holidays sweeter, and there is nothing more special than heirloom recipes handed down through the generations. For years, I have made a chocolate bourbon cake at Christmastime in hopes it becomes a family tradition like my mother-in-law’s angel food cake recipe, passed down through three generations. True to its name, Nani’s cake is indeed angelic and a favorite among the grandchildren. She would be thrilled that I am sharing it with our readers. Enjoy, and be sure to bake some memories with your loved ones this holiday!

N A NI’ S A N GE L F O O D C A K E INGREDIENTS • 1 ½ cup egg whites • 1 1/8 cups sifted cake flour • 3/4 cup sugar + 1 cup sugar • ½ teaspoon salt • 1 ½ teaspoon cream of tartar • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 1 teaspoon almond extract • Whipped cream • Berries DIRECTIONS Set egg whites out for 30 minutes to come to room temperature. Sift cake flour five times. Add 3/4 cup sugar to sifted flour and sift five more times. Pour egg whites into large bowl. Add salt and beat on high until foamy (about ½ minute). Add cream of tartar and continue to beat until egg whites stand with peaks (2-3 minutes). Rapidly sprinkle in 1 cup sugar and beat only until blended with mixer on 8 speed (about 1 minute). Scrape bowl and put mixer on 2 speed. Add vanilla and almond extracts. Sprinkle in flour mixture and manually fold in quickly and carefully with spatula. Pour gently into tube pan and cut through for air bubbles. Bake 30-35 minutes. Cool completely in inverted pan. Optional: Ice with whipped cream and top with berries.

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

STEPHANIE’S F AV O R I T E C H O C O L AT E BOURBON CAKE INGREDIENTS • 1 cup strong, hot coffee • ½ cup bourbon • 5 ounces quality unsweetened dark chocolate, coarsely chopped • 1 cup unsalted butter, melted • 3 eggs • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract • 2 cups all-purpose flour • 2 cups sugar • 2 Tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder + 1 Tablespoon to dust the pan • 1 teaspoon baking soda • ½ teaspoon salt

DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Grease bundt pan and dust with cocoa powder. Heat chocolate in microwave for 1 minute and stir. Continue to heat in 30-second increments until melted and smooth. Let cool. Add bourbon and 2 Tablespoons cocoa powder to hot coffee. Stir and set aside. In mixer, beat the butter and sugar until well combined. Add eggs, one at a time, incorporating each one well before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla, baking soda, salt and melted chocolate. Set mixer on low and add the coffee-bourbon mixture and flour alternately about a third of each mixture at a time. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake about 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes – or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. Cool and drizzle with chocolate ganache glaze.

ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE HASBROUCK PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED CONTINUED > D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C RO S ST I M BE R S

C H O C O L AT E G A N A C H E G L A Z E

INGREDIENTS • 1 1/2 cup quality semi-sweet chocolate chips • 1 cup heavy whipping cream

DIRECTIONS Add chocolate chips to a medium bowl and set aside. Bring heavy whipping cream to a simmer on the stove, stirring occasionally. Do not bring to a boil. Remove from heat and pour over chocolate chips. Place lid or towel over the bowl and let sit undisturbed for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes, slowly stir the mixture until smooth. Drizzle over cake.

Baking makes the holidays sweeter, and there is nothing more special than heirloom recipes handed down through the generations.

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gifts that do good When Shopping This Season, Consider Purchasing Gifts That Make An Impact ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE HASBROUCK | PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED Desmond Tutu said, “Do a little bit of good where you are. It is those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.” During the holidays, we have an inherent need to help others. To spread holiday cheer and lend a hand. But did you know that the gifts you purchase can actually do good and spread joy far beyond the intended recipient? This month, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite gift picks that will please friends and family and support charitable causes - spreading "little bits of good."

SURVIVOR MADE Refuge for Women’s Survivor Made program creates jobs and builds the confidence of human trafficking victims. Through Survivor Made, participants learn how to create high-quality leather handbags, earrings, other leather goods and candles to sell on the Survivor Made site, survivormade.org. In addition, they learn business skills like accounting, stocking inventory and workplace management.

ST. JUDE PARTNERS Several national retailers sell items that support St. Jude and its mission to advance cures and means of prevention for pediatric catastrophic diseases through research and treatment. At St. Jude, no child is denied treatment based on their ability to pay. The hospital depends on community support. Companies like Pottery Barn, Williams-Sonoma, Saint Candle, Academy Sports and many more offer items supporting St. Jude.

BOMBAS Bombas doesn’t just make incredibly comfortable socks and underwear. The company and its network of more than

G IF T GU ID E | SHOPPIN G

3,500 Giving Partners help it distribute an item for every item purchased. So far, the company has given 75 million donations across all 50 states. So, be sure to purchase some cute socks for stocking stuffers this year and help the cause.

THE KIND CULTURE CO. The Kind Culture Co. is doing just that – creating a culture of kindness. The company’s mission is to empower and inspire children to create a kinder world. Every purchase from the company benefits a child in need. The Peace Doll inspires children to do random acts of kindness. Each doll comes with a “kindness kit” that includes 10 tokens with special phrases on them to show gratitude, love, kindness, hope and friendship. Children are encouraged to give the tokens as acts of kindness.

WEST & WILLOW West & Willow is a sponsor of Best Friends Animal Society, one of the world’s largest pet rescue and research organizations. Each purchase from the company helps support the organization’s mission. West & Willow’s Custom One Pet Portrait is the perfect personalized gift for the pet lover in your life. Simply upload a photo of the pet and customize the portrait.

THISTLE FARMS For 25 years Thistle Farms has offered hope and healing for women survivors of trafficking, prostitution and addiction. What once began as a group of volunteers and survivors making candles in a church basement in Nashville, has blossomed into Thistle Farms social enterprises. The organization produces divine-smelling candles; bath, body and shower products; home products; apparel, jewelry and more. Each purchase supports the women of Thistle Farms.

Gifts That Make An Impact

The Commuter Tote Survivormade.org $114.95

Signature Collection Candles Set Survivormade.org Set of 3, $27.95

St. Jude Mug Williams-Sonoma.com $14.95

St. Jude Bell-Shaped Scented Candle - Yuletide Spice PotteryBarn.com $34.50-$59

Youth Holiday Snowflake Calf 4-pack Gift Box Bombas.com $38

The Peace Doll KindCultureCo.com $69.95

Custom One Pet Portrait WestandWillow.com $77

Beard Salve ThistleFarms.org $16

Tranquility Set ThistleFarms.org $35

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ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE HASBROUCK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRISTY MASTRANDONAS

T H E

H O L I D A Y

T A B L E INTERIOR DESIGNER KRISTY MASTRANDONAS SHARES ADVICE ON CREATING AN ENCHANTING HOLIDAY TABLE

CONTINUED >

I NSP IR E D BY | HOM E + DE S I GN

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“I feel having a beautifully set table, especially during the holidays, helps to set the mood, start dinner conversation and further establishes those beloved family traditions.”

Sharing meals with loved ones during the holidays is a beloved tradition. This month, Interior Designer Kristy Mastrandonas, owner of Kristy Mastrandonas Interior Design & Styling, gives advice on how to create an enchanting table that will make your holiday meal even more memorable.

SHARING MEALS WITH LOVED ONES DURING THE HOLIDAYS IS A BELOVED TRADITION. HAVING A BEAUTIFULLY SET TABLE CAN MAKE THE EXPERIENCE SO MUCH MORE SPECIAL. WHY DO YOU THINK THAT'S SO? I feel having a beautifully set table, especially during the holidays, helps to set the mood, start dinner conversation and further establish those beloved family traditions. Family and guests will remember the mood and how they felt long after the holiday meal is over. Designer Tip: To avoid the hurried, last-minute rush, decorate and set the table ahead of time.

WHEN IT COMES TO CREATING THE PERFECT HOLIDAY TABLESCAPE, WHAT SHOULD PEOPLE KEEP IN MIND? The number one thing to keep in mind is to determine the mood you want to set. These simple steps will help anyone create that picture-perfect holiday table. Step 1: Choose a theme or color scheme and plan accordingly. Inspiration can be found on Instagram and Pinterest. Step 2: Add table linens. When budget allows, anything linen or Egyptian Cotton are my favorite. Step 3: Add a centerpiece. Remember to keep centerpiece decor below seated eye level for ease of conversation. Step 4: Layer individual place settings - charger, dinner plate, salad plate and/or soup bowl, glassware and cutlery. This adds volume to your overall tablescape and eases transitioning from one course to the next.

I NSP IR E D BY | HOM E + DE S I GN

Step 5: Lighting is key! If possible, dim the chandelier and add a few candles to enhance the mood.

WHAT ELEMENTS DO YOU RELY ON FOR CREATING CENTERPIECES? I like to have a main centerpiece and then supporting pieces - floral and greenery stems and other decorative items - to make a statement. Oftentimes, I'm using faux floral and greenery stems because I can manipulate them how I choose, but there are times that I will use real flowers and greenery. And sometimes, I mix faux and real together.

IS HOLIDAY CHINA WORTH THE INVESTMENT? I do love holiday china and have several different patterns to select from, depending upon my theme that given year. Some years I will use the holiday china and other years I will mix and match everyday dinnerware as I have for this table setting. I think everyone should have at least one set of holiday china that they can mix and match.

HOW CAN WE MAKE THE HOLIDAY TABLE EVEN MORE PERSONALIZED FOR GUESTS? I love using sussies on holiday tables! They're such a fun (and unexpected) way to show love and appreciation for the recipient, especially when the gift is personalized. Another way that I like to add a personalized touch is place cards. They make family and guests feel special, and it helps the hostess place the sussies in the correct place! For more holiday inspiration, be sure to check out Kristy’s blog, kristymastrandonas.com/blog, and follow her on Instagram,@athomewithkristy, and Pinterest, pinterest.com/KMastrandonas.

D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C RO S ST I M BE R S

E X P E R I E N C E S F A V O R I T E O U R

THE GIFT OF T I M E 32

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There is no better gift than spending time with family and friends. This year, instead of purchasing gifts that can be placed under the tree – why not give the gift of time together? After all, experiences make the perfect present. Here are a few of our favorite experiences to give this season.

DALLAS ARBORETUM AND BOTANICAL GARDEN The 66-acre Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is one of the world's premier gardens. Filled with color, beauty and adventure, it's one of our favorite excursions. The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden offers gift memberships for individuals and families. The Family + Adventure Garden membership includes year-round general garden admission for as many as six individuals, free parking for two vehicles and unlimited visits to the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden. Garden memberships are tax-deductible, as well. Visit dallasarboretum.org for more information.

DALLAS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

EXPERIENCES MAKE THE BEST PRESENTS, AND HERE ARE SOME OF OUR FAVORITES

Guided by renowned Music Director Fabio Luisi, the Dallas Symphony Orchestra delivers an uplifting and magical musical experience. Tickets to the Dallas Symphony Orchestra make the perfect gift for music lovers. Purchase individual tickets or spoil them by gifting them a subscription to a symphony series. These include the Jazz Series, Classical Series, DSO Pops Series, Gould Family Organ Recital Series and our favorite – the Family Series. The Family Series concerts are for the young and young-atheart and are only an hour in length – perfect for smaller attention spans. Visit dallassymphony.org for details.

ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE HASBROUCK PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED CONTINUED >

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PEROT MUSEUM OF NATURE AND SCIENCE This year the Perot Museum of Nature and Science celebrated its 10th anniversary. Since 2012, the museum has been fostering a love of STEM for millions in North Texas. A Perot Museum membership is a memorable and educational gift. Visit ticketing.perotmuseum. org/events for gift membership information.

Ball Hall will celebrate its 25th anniversary in 2023. The Fort Worth icon is a premier venue for touring artists and Broadway productions. Consider gifting tickets to one of the incredible upcoming performances. The Nutcracker will run until Christmas Eve and makes an excellent early Christmas gift. Or give them a New Year's Eve to remember at Abba the Concert - ABBA Tribute. Children will love tickets to The Lion King, which will premiere at Bass Hall in January. Visit basshall.com for more information.

DALLAS WORLD AQUARIUM The Dallas World Aquarium is a treasure. Housed in a nearly 100-year-old warehouse downtown, the aquarium boasts multiple exhibits and restaurants. It's the perfect family outing. And it makes a fabulous gift. Consider giving a DWA Membership. Visit dwazoo.com/membership for details.

DALLAS STARS TICKETS Always fun and full of energy, a Dallas Stars game is the perfect outing to gift the sports fans in your life. Choose from single tickets or spoil them with a Pick 4 plan. Visit nhl.com/ stars for details.

MOVIE NIGHT AT AMC HIGHLAND VILLAGE You simply can’t go wrong with gifting a movie night. Even the most persnickety person on your gift list will love it! Movie gift cards also make perfect teacher holiday presents. Visit amctheaters.com/gift-cards for details.

M UST SE E | EN TERTA INME NT

F A M I L Y

BASS PERFORMANCE HALL

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The City Lifestyle

Giving Campaign Now in its third year, the City Lifestyle Giving Campaign will give away $300,000 this holiday season to help individual community members who would benefit from a helping hand during their time of need. But they need YOUR HELP to make it happen! Maybe you know of a single parent struggling to provide, an elderly person who has experienced loss, a child enduring a health issue, a co-worker suffering a sudden, unexpected tragedy or a neighbor with a financial hardship who has fallen between the cracks of getting assistance. Chances are you know someone with a specific need—even if nobody else does. To preserve and protect the dignity of every recipient, the City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized in ANY way. (Even those who nominate others may remain anonymous if they choose.) Last year, City Lifestyle was able to give to more than 70 recipients all over the country by sending checks in the mail through New Year’s Eve. (This year, the goal is to double that number with checks ranging in amount up to $3,000 each.) With nominations flooding in from community members and leaders such as judges, police officers, teachers, nurses, social workers, mentors and readers like you, we were able to reach people who might otherwise go unnoticed. “We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is all about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.” Together with Matthew Perry, Chief Sales Officer, Steven adds that the outpouring and gratitude from the recipients was overwhelming and affirmed that this is a tradition they want to continue. “We believe God has blessed our company with continued success,” Matthew adds, “so we in turn want to be a blessing to others.” City Lifestyle has also enacted an internal giving program whereby every employee in the company receives $100 to give away to someone in the community. “The idea is to encourage our employees to keep doing it on their own,” Steven says. “Taking care of one another and blessing others is so rewarding that it perpetuates a cycle of giving. It’s extremely important to me as a person and as a company to foster that culture of generosity.”

G IV IN G BAC K | L IFE + CULTURE

“This Giving Campaign is all about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”

W here ha s t he c a mpa ig n g i f t e d?

Scan Code to

Nominate between Dec. 1 – 15, 2022

Follow @citylifestyle on Instagram for reminders! To submit a nomination, follow @citylifestyle on Instagram and fill out the form found in the bio link. All entries will be read, and because this is not a raffle, there is no need to nominate someone more than once. The amount given to each recipient will be based on need. D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C RO S ST I M BE R S

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DECEMBER 2022

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

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Holiday Hoopla

BRIDLEWOOD AMEN ITY CEN T E R & NE I G H B O R H O O D | 5 :30 P M Enjoy a night filled with holiday festivities Dec. 2 at the Holiday Hoopla presented by the Women of Flower Mound. The event will include a holiday light tour, pictures with Santa, a visit with Santa’s reindeer, ornament making, inflatables, photo ops and more. For ticket information, visit womonofflowermound.org/holiday-hoopla.

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Nutcracker in the Park

MEADOW MERE PARK | 6:00 PM Take a magical journey through the Land of Snow to the Kingdom of the Sweets to visit the Sugarplum Fairy at North Central Ballet’s production of the Nutcracker. For more information, visit thenutcracker.ticketspice. com/nutcracker-in-the-park-2022.

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First Fridays at the Farm: Prairie Christmas

NAS H FAR M | 10:00 AM Step back in time at Nash Farm's First Friday on the Farm: Prairie Christmas. Decorate the farmhouse and enjoy cookies and cider from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2.

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Flower Mound Christmas Parade of Lights & Tree Lighting Ceremony

2 121 CROS S TIMBERS ROAD | 6 :0 0 P M Ring in the holidays with the Town of Flower Mound’s annual Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting ceremony.

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Reindeer Run 5K & Grinch Sprint

BAKERS FIELD PAR K | 9:00 AM Hosted by the Rotary Club of Flower Mound, the Reindeer Run 5K & Grinch Sprint will take place Dec. 3 at Bakersfield Park. All proceeds support local and international charities. To register, visit reindeerrun5k.com.

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Lewisville Holiday Stroll Christmas Parade

O L D TOW N LEW IS VILLE | 12:00 P M Lewisville’s Old Town Holiday Stroll Christmas parade will be at noon on Saturday, Dec. 3. Don’t miss the fun, festive occasion!

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Merry & Bright Drone Show

PEACE PLAZA | 8 :00 PM Watch 160 drones create Christmas magic in the sky over Main Street in Grapevine, near Peace Plaza at the Merry & Bright Christmas Drone Show presented by Harvest Hall & Hotel Vin.

Flower Mound Farmers Market

PAR KER S QUARE | 10:00 AM The Flower Mound Farmers Market is held Sundays in Parker Square. For a list of vendors, visit fourseasonsmarkets.com/events.

Wine Down With the Grinch

DOUBLETREE RAN CH PARK | 6 :0 0 P M Enjoy a festive date night at Wine Down With the Grinch Friday, Dec. 9, at Doubletree Ranch Park. Visit highlandvillage.org for more informatioin.

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Voices of Flower Mound Christmas Concerts

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Christmas at the Ranch

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TR IETS CH MEMORIAL UMC | 7 :0 0 P M Celebrate the holiday season at the Voices of Flower Mound's Christmas Concerts Dec. 10 and 11. Tickets may be purchased in advance at FMCO.org/Christmas or at the door.

DOUBLETREE RAN CH PARK | 1 0 :0 0 A M Doubletree Ranch Park will host Christmas at the Ranch from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10. Don't miss this family-friendly holiday event!

Christmas at the Cabin

LLELA | 10:00 AM Travel back in time to the 1870s and celebrate Christmas the old-fashioned way at LLELA’s Christmas at the Cabin 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 17. Enjoy a tour of the historic Minor-Porter Log Cabin, make a corn-husk doll or an ornament, create a hand-dipped candle, listen to carols and sip hot cider by the campfire.

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/CrossTimbers

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Hot Chocolate Bombs THESE DECADENT TREATS TAKE HOT COCOA TO THE NEXT LEVEL ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE HASBROUCK | PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED

If you don’t know by now, hot chocolate bombs are, well, the bomb. They turn a boring cup of cocoa into a decadent experience. And they make excellent stocking stuffers, teacher gifts and dinner party favors. WHAT YOU’LL NEED: • 2 Silicone Semi-Sphere Molds with six slots each • 20 ounces, high-quality semi-sweet chocolate bars, coarsely chopped • ½ cup high-quality hot cocoa mix • Mini Marshmallows • Mini Chocolate Chips • Holiday Sprinkles • White Chocolate, melted

INSTRUCTIONS 1. Place chopped chocolate into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat uncovered on high for 1 minute; then stir. 2. Heat in 30-second increments until chocolate is smooth and melted. 3. Brush about 1 tablespoon of the melted chocolate into each slot within the molds. Make sure to cover the entire mold. Refrigerate until set (about 5 minutes). Brush a second layer of chocolate in the mold. Refrigerate another 10 minutes. 4. Place remaining melted chocolate into a piping bag or baggie with tip cut out. Set aside. 5. Gently remove chocolate from molds. 6. Place about 2-3 tablespoons of cocoa into six of the molds. Top the cocoa with marshmallows, mini chocolate chips and some sprinkles. 7. Pipe melted chocolate on edges of the half spheres. Affix the empty halves to the filled halves pressing lightly to seal. Drizzle outside of mold with melted white chocolate and sprinkles. Refrigerate until set. 8. When ready to make a cup of cocoa, simply place the hot chocolate bomb in a mug, add 1 cup of warm milk and stir.

H OW TO | FOOD + BEVERAGE

Note: Be creative! Instead of mini choclate chips, add some finely chopped Andes chocolate-peppermint candies to the cocoa mix inside the bombs. Or add flavored cocoas. The possibilities are endless!

Advice for what matters most, when you need it most Congratulations to Jeffery D. Price for being named to the Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Advisors” 2022 list and Barron’s “Top 1,200 Financial Advisors” 2022 list. Working with a dedicated advisor means you get personalized investment strategies from Merrill plus access to the broader banking capabilities, tools and technology only Bank of America can deliver.

Price & Associates Jeffery D. Price, CPFA® Managing Director Wealth Management Advisor Portfolio Manager 817.410.4940 jeffery_price@ml.com Merrill Lynch Wealth Management 286 Grand Avenue Southlake, TX 76092 817.410.4349 fa.ml.com/price

Data provided by SHOOK® Research, LLC. Data as of 6/30/21. Source: Forbes.com (April, 2022). Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors ranking was developed by SHOOK Research and is based on in-person, virtual, and telephone due diligence meetings to measure best practices; also considered are: client retention, industry experience, credentials, review of compliance records, firm nominations; and quantitative criteria, such as: assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion because client objectives and risk tolerances vary, and advisors rarely have audited performance reports. SHOOK’s research and rankings provide opinions intended to help investors choose the right financial advisor and are not indicative of future performance or representative of any one client’s experience. Past performance is not an indication of future results. Neither Forbes nor SHOOK Research receive compensation in exchange for placement on the ranking. Rankings are based on the opinions of Forbes and not representative nor indicative of any one client’s experience, future performance, or investment outcome and should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor. For more information, please see www.SHOOKresearch.com. SHOOK is a registered trademark of SHOOK Research, LLC. Source: The Barron’s “Top 1,200 Financial Advisors” list, March 11, 2022. The Barron’s “Top 1,200 Financial Advisors” ranking considered advisors with a minimum of seven years financial services experience and have been employed at their current firm for at least one year. This is a list of the top advisors in each state, with the number of ranking spots determined by each state’s population and wealth. Other quantitative and qualitative measures include assets under management, revenues generated by advisors for their firms, and the quality of the advisors’ practices, regulatory records, internal company documents, and 100-plus points of data provided by the advisors themselves. Rankings and recognition from Barron’s are no guarantee of future investment success and do not ensure that a current or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance results, and such rankings should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor. Barron’s is a trademark of Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All rights reserved. Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (also referred to as “MLPF&S” or “Merrill”) makes available certain investment products sponsored, managed, distributed or provided by companies that are affiliates of Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp.”). MLPF&S is a registered broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, Member SIPC and a wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp. Banking products are provided by Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC and a wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp. Investment products: Are Not FDIC Insured Are Not Bank Guaranteed May Lose Value The Bull Symbol and Merrill are registered trademarks of Bank of America Corporation. A Portfolio Manager can help clients pursue their objectives by managing on a discretionary basis his own Personalized or Defined Strategies, which may incorporate individual stocks and bonds, Merrill model portfolios, and third-party investment strategies. © 2022 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved. MAP3577803 | AD-04-22-0522.A | 472538PM-0621 | 05/2022

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