Issuu

A P R I L 2 02 1

Welcome Spring! HOME + DESIGN M I RRO R L AK E D ESI G NS 4 0 Y E ARS AN D C O U N T I N G TR AV E L EN J OY B REN HA M’ S WI L D F LOWERS , WI N E AN D M O RE FOOD + DRINK AN DY ’ S K I T C H EN SM AL L K I T C H EN , B I G H E AR T LI F E + C U LTU R E I N H ERI TAN C E F LO R AL D ESI G N C O N T I N U ES L EG ACY

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

APRIL 2021 PUBLISHER

Peggy Garner | peggy.garner@lifestylepubs.com MANAGING EDITOR

Spring is here

Erica Hernandez | erica.hernandez@lifestylepubs.com PHOTO EDITOR

Shannon Valentine | shannon.valentine@lifestylepubs.com

WE’VE MADE IT! Spring is in the air and no matter where you go it’s impossible

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

to escape. The days are balmy, breezy and perhaps carry the smell of the season’s

Samantha Eklund | samantha.eklund@lifestylepubs.com

freshest blooms.

AD DESIGNER

Whitney Lockhart

This April, we get to celebrate new life. Spring is a time when we can enjoy everyday moments in the sunshine, plan a quick outdoor getaway or just stop and smell the flowers.

L AYO UT DESIGNER

Dani Moore CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

However you celebrate spring, we hope the stories in these pages help you do just that. Whether you're planning a new backyard landscape or just looking for an outdoor escape, we’ve brought stories to inspire. Read about how Mirror Lake Designs transforms outdoor living spaces into luxury retreats or plan your weekend visit to see Brenham’s wildflower scene.

Stephanie Parnell, Erica Hernandez, Evelin De La Rosa CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Shannon Valentine | Lunalux, Genesis Photographers, JD Hallett Photography, Natalie Lacy Lange, Angel Verdejo, Abbie McIntosh, Clear Sky Images, JJ Photography

How do you enjoy the springtime? If you have a story, send us an email and let us know. We’re always excited to hear from you! Until then, indulge in the refreshing beauty of this season, Cypress!

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

Erica Hernandez, Managing Editor

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

CityLifestyle.com/Cypress ON THE COVER Wildflowers in Brenham PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATALIE LACY LANGE 4

Cypress Lifestyle | April 2021

Proverbs 3:5-6 Cypress Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Cypress 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 Cypress Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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INSIDE THE ISSUE APRIL 2021

FEATURES 14 A Floral Family Legacy Inheritance Floral Designs Carries on Family Floral Tradition

18 Brenham In Full Bloom This Weekend Escape Boasts Sweet Dining, Hotel, and Shopping Options, and Plenty of Flower Power

22 A Small Kitchen with a Big Heart Andy’s Kitchen in Cypress Serves Up Family-Friendly Burgers You’ll Remember

18 26

26 Mirror Lake Designs 40 Years of Landscape Design and Horticulture and Still Going

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Around Town

Inspired By

Road Trip

22 Hot Spot 26 Locally Owned 30 DIY 34 Lifestyle Calendar

GOOD TIMES 2.

Sixteen CFISD Art Students Earn 2021 Rodeo Art Awards Sixteen CFISD’s student artists were selected in the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo (HLSR) School Art Program from the High School, Middle School and Elementary divisions. Because of the cancellation of the 2021 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo,, student artwork will not be displayed at the Hayloft Gallery, but will still be auctioned in May.

Community Generously Supports 2021 CFISD Livestock Show and Sale The 27th Annual CFISD Livestock Show and Sale saw an incredible amount of generosity from the CFISD community through the live auction, freezer sale, monetary donations and the first-ever online sale. The Llive auction raised $281,950, which is $23,250 more than last year. More than 130 projects had pre-sale commitments to purchase and animals in the Freezer Sale sold out in record time. PHOTO CREDIT: ANGEL VERDEJO, ABBIE MCINTOSH

Cypress Lifestyle | April 2021

Cy-Fair Chamber Names 2020 Businesses of the Year, 2021 Board Members The Cy-Fair Chamber 2020 Businesses of the Year were honored at a special luncheon on March 3rd. At the same event the Cy-Fair Fire Department Station 13 were recognized as First Responders honorees for saving a resident who suffered sudden cardiac arrest. Additionaly the 2021 Chamber Board was sworn in. PHOTO CREDIT: GENESIS PHOTOGRAPHERS

1. Large Business of the Year - Houston Methodist Willowbrook | 2. Medium Business of the Year - City of Jersey Village Jersey Meadow Golf Club | 3. Non-Profit of the Year - Cy-Hope | 4. First Responders - Cy-Fair Fire Department Station 13 | 5. Small Business of the Year - The Work Well | 6. The 2021 Cy-Fair Houston Chamber of Commerce Board

CityLifestyle.com/Cypress

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AROUND TOWN

KLAUS BREWING BEERS AVAILABLE AT LOCAL RESTAURANTS

North Cypress with materials to cheer them up.

You can now order your favorite Klaus Brewing

bags filled with coloring books, playing cards, mag-

beers at local area restaurants including Brew:30

azines, crayons, map pencils and notes. Students

Taphouse, Craft Beer Cellar, Crafthouse Grill,

and staff members played a big role in contrib-

Creekwood Grill, Frio Grill, Keg's Ice House &

uting to help patients and nurses. Participating

Grill, Marvino's, Murdoch's Backyard Pub, Rosehill

groups included: Cypress Falls athletics, math,

Beer Garden, Senate Avenue Brewing Company,

LIFE Skills, English and Career and Technical

The Backyard Grill, The Ranch Bar + Kitchen, The

Education departments, as well as organizations

Shack and World of Beers-Town Lake. You can

like PALs, National Honor Society and student

also find Klaus beers across the Greater Houston

council. HCA made Cy-Falls principal Becky

area. Visit KlausBrewing.com for the full list of

Denton aware of the depression that sometimes

bars and restaurants.

strikes patients who are in isolation, and suggested

CFISD BASKETBALL TEAMS ADVANCE POST SEASON The Cy-Creek girls basketball team finished the season at 32-1 and reached the state tournament for the third time in four years. Langham Creek girls team were District 16-6A co-champions and

donated items to help cheer them up. They also made homemade valentine's gifts for the staff to help motivate them through February.

CY-CREEK FRESHMAN QB NAMED NEWCOMER OF THE YEAR Cy-Creek

freshman

quarterback

Brad

finished as regional semifinalists. The Cy-Park and

Jackson was named the 2020-2021 All-Greater

Cy-Woods boys basketball teams finished the sea-

Houston Newcomer of the Year by the Houston

son as Region 11-6A semifinalists, while Cy-Creek

Chronicle. Jackson helped lead Cy-Creek to a 4-3

boys were District 17-6A champions and finished

district record and a playoff appearance in his first

their season as regional quarterfinalists. Cy-Ranch

year as a starter. He finished his freshman season

was District 16-6A’s second seed and Cy-Lakes

completing 64 percent of his passes, throwing for

was District 16-6A’s fourth seed with both finishing

2,187 yards and 20 touchdowns. Jackson joins five

as regional quarterfinalists.

other CFISD student-athletes on the All-Greater

CYPRESS EDWARD JONES FINANCIAL ADVISOR SEEKS BRANCH OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR

Houston team including Bridgeland junior quarterback Connor Weigman (First Team Offense), Cy-Fair senior running back L.J. Johnson (First Team Offense), Bridgeland senior defensive back

Cypress Financial Advisor, Eric Davis, is seeking

Bryce McMorris (First Team Defense), Langham

an individual to support him at his Edward Jones

Creek sophomore wide receiver Jaquaize Pettaway

office in Lakeland Village on Fry Rd. The branch

(Second Team Offense), and Cy-Park junior line-

office administrator position includes support

backer Harold Perkins (Second Team Defense).

through client service, office administration and client development functions. New branch office administrators complete a comprehensive, online,

BOYS AND GIRLS COUNTRY ACHIEVES NATIONAL ACCREDITATION

self-directed training program that provides knowl-

Boys and Girls Country, a licensed residen-

edge and skills needed to help operate a local

tial home for children and young adults based in

branch office. At Edward Jones, our commitment

Hockley, achieved national accreditation through

to our associates has made us one of the nation's

the New York-based Council on Accreditation.

leading financial services firms. To be consid-

For 50 years Boys and Girls Country has cared

ered for this position, submit a resume online at

for more than 1,600 children and young adults in

Careers.EdwardJones.com, Job ID 53143BR

need. Their mission is to change the lives of chil-

CY FALLS DONATES TO HCA HOUSTON HEALTHCARE NORTH CYPRESS

On Feb. 1, 400 patients received individual clear

dren from families in crisis by loving and nurturing them in a Christian home environment and raising them to become self-sustaining and contributing

Cy-Falls High School led an effort to supply

adults. The council is an independent, not-for-

patients in isolation at HCA Houston Healthcare

profit accreditor of community-based behavioral

Cypress Lifestyle | April 2021

healthcare and social service organizations in the United States and Canada. It took Boys and Girls

CY-WOODS AVP STUDENTS EARN AWARDS AT STN FALL NATIONALS

Country 18 months to achieve accreditation and

Cy-Woods Audio Video Production students

join its place among 2,000 agencies across the

earned a High School News Show Honorable

country. Organizations pursue accreditation to

Mention award and junior Raidan Bailey won

demonstrate the implementation of best-practice

first place in the Remote News/Feature category

standards in the field of human services. The coun-

in the Student Television Network fall nationals

cil evaluated all aspects of Boys and Girls Country

competition. Bailey’s winning piece focused on

programs, services, management and administra-

West Houston Church of Christ and its reopening

tion, and awarded high ratings across the catego-

procedures after being shut down for an extended

ries. To learn more about Boys and Girls Country,

period due to COVID-19. This is the first time a

visit BoysandGirlsCountry.org

Cy-Woods audio-video production student has

THE JOHN FOX CHAMBER HERD HELPS CFISD STUDENTS AND LOCAL MINISTRIES The John Fox Chamber Herd was formed by the Cy-Fair Chamber of Commerce over 21 years ago with the sole purpose of purchasing animals exhibited at the CFISD FFA Livestock Show & Sale. The processed meat is then donated to

won first place in a national competition. Student television competitions are judged by broadcast industry professionals who have years of experience in the television and film industries.

BRIDGELAND COUPLE INVITES CYPRESS RESIDENTS TO A STANDUP PADDLE BOARD GET TOGETHER

local ministries. This year the Chamber raised

Whether you are experienced or it’s your first-

over $19,000 and helped 20 students with their

time using a standup paddle board, husband and

FFA projects. The processed meat from two hogs

wife duo, Brad and Konae Mitchell, invite you to

will be donated to the Cy-Fair Helping Hands

enjoy the sport at a monthly get together. Brad and

and Cypress Area Ministries food pantries. The

Konae are experienced paddle boarders who have

remaining animals will be donated to Boys and

taught both recreational and racing techniques.

Girls Country. John Fox was the Chamber’s

They have a passion for the sport and want to meet

Herd boss for over 20 years until his passing.

like-minded Cypress residents as well a those who

His son, Casey Fox, carries out his legacy at the

would like to learn. The meetups will be the first

show along with Mark McShaffry and Debbie

Monday of the month from April – August, start-

Blackshear as co-chairs for the event. To learn

ing at 6:30PM at the Bridgeland Boathouse on

more about the John Fox Chamber Herd and how

Bridgeland Creek Blvd. It’s BYOB—Bring Your Own

you can get involved, visit CyFairChamber.org

Board—or you can call in advance to reserve one of

CY-CREEK BASKETBALL STANDOUTS NAMED MCDONALD’S ALL-AMERICAN

two loaner boards. RSVP to Konae & Brad at 832732-2137 or KonaeRealty@gmail.com.

Cy-Creek seniors Rori Harmon and Kyndall Hunter were given one of high school basketball’s top honors. Harmon and Hunter were both among the 48 seniors (24 girls and 24 boys) from across the country selected for the 2021 McDonald’s All American Game rosters. Mainstays on the Cy-Creek varsity team since their freshman years, both Harmon and Hunter have accomplished resumes individually and with the Cougars. They have led the basketball team to three regional tournament appearances, three state tournament berths and two Class

Would you like to get in touch with us? We would love

6A state runner-up finishes. The Cougars were

to hear from you! Contact us at CityLifestyle.com/

District 17-6A champions and finished their sea-

Cypress using the Get In Touch link and let us know

son as state finalists.

what you think. CityLifestyle.com/Cypress

INSPIRED BY

a floral family legacy ARTICLE EVELIN DE LA ROSA

PHOTOGRAPHY JJ PHOTOGRAPHY, CLEAR SKIES

INHERITANCE FLORAL DESIGNS CARRIES ON FAMILY FLORAL TRADITION

ANDRA COLLINS JOHNSON REMEMBERS ATTEND-

Andra created floral arrangements as a freelance

ING A WEDDING NEARLY EVERY WEEKEND AS A

designer for years, but it wasn’t until 2018 that she took a

SEVEN-YEAR-OLD. Her mother, a floral designer, would

leap of faith. She opened her own floral design business

style bridal arrangements and Andra was her eager lit-

and called it Inheritance Floral Design.

tle helper. Though she was young, Andra enjoyed the

“As a child, I helped my mom with many events,” Andra

creative process and quickly learned her mother’s craft.

says. “That is why I named my business ‘Inheritance

Floral design is in her blood, she likes to say.

Floral,’ because I inherited design from my mother.”

Andra Collins, Clear Sky Images

Cypress Lifestyle | April 2021

Based in Cypress, Inheritance Floral Design creates custom floral styles and even coordinates weddings. Whether it’s an intimate dinner or an over-the-top event, Inheritance Floral can make custom designs fitted to each client’s style. The group travels anywhere clients wish to have their event and collaborates with event planners to

using what’s fresh and in season. What she loves most about

bring each client’s floral fantasy to life.

designing is being able to create beautiful artwork that makes her

Andra works with two other partners to run both the creative and business side of Inheritance Floral. Her best friend, Michelle Simon, helps with project management and running the business while her longtime friend Joana Crumpton, works as a designer. “With their help, I’m able to manage my business very well,” Andra says.

clients happy. Inheritance Floral Design is dedicated to making each and every client satisfied no matter the occasion. “It makes me feel special knowing that I am really designing what my clients want,” Andra says. Norma Sanchez, one of Andra’s clients, recommends Andra to friends and family after Andra coordinated Norma’s wedding and

Andra, who has a degree in agriculture, animal science as well as

designed all of her floral arrangements. Andra even went out of

soils and crops, knows exactly what she is doing. She understands

her way to tour floral vendors with Norma to help her find exactly

where to find the best flowers and how to create artistic designs

what she was looking for.

CONTINUED >

(image by) Laurastilles JJ Photography

CityLifestyle.com/Cypress

INSPIRED BY (CONTINUED)

Onyx View Photography

It makes me feel special knowing that I am really designing what my clients want. “Andra was good at keeping everything in check at my wedding,”

“I would say cut down anything that is browning on your plants.

Norma says. “She is very professional. What we had envisioned for

The plant should still be alive,” Andra says. “You also want to choose

our wedding was made possible because of Andra.”

plants and flowers that really coexist with each other in your garden.”

Not only does Andra dedicate herself to her floral business full

Andra also says it’s also crucial to pair plants and flowers that

time, but she teaches agricultural science at Davis High School in

require the same kind of growing needs, such as soil and sun-

Aldine. Being a teacher and a designer go hand-in-hand for Andra,

light. The same is true for those who want to assemble their own

who’s been teaching for more than 15 years.

flower designs.

In the beginning, she taught floral design to her students from

“It is the same when making your own flower arrangements at

basic to more advanced concepts, she says. Now she teaches more

home,” Andra says. “Make sure you pick flowers that group well and

animal-science subjects.

survive at the same rate in a vase with water.”

Andra’s love of flowers even extends into the garden. For those

Eventually, Andra hopes to leave teaching to run Inheritance Floral

planning to start their own garden this spring, she offers this advice:

full time. Her goal is to pass on her knowledge of floral design to

Research what flowers complement each other when planting. It’s

future generations in her family and keep her inheritance alive.

also important to know how to maintain those plants. 16

Cypress Lifestyle | April 2021

InheritanceFloralDesign.com

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ROAD TRIP

brenham in

full bloom THIS WEEKEND ESCAPE BOASTS SWEET DINING, HOTEL, AND SHOPPING OPTIONS, AND PLENTY OF FLOWER POWER ARTICLE STEPHANIE PARNELL PHOTOGRAPHY NATALIE LACY LANGE

SPRING HAS SPRUNG IN TEXAS AND IF YOU’RE READY FOR A

BLOSSOMING ADVENTURES

GREAT WEEKEND ESCAPE, THEN PERHAPS IT’S TIME TO TAKE A

Visitors who want to experience the full

JOURNEY TO A PLACE WHERE YOU CAN STOP AND SMELL THE

thrill of the wildflower trail can hop over

ROSES. Or in Brenham’s case, the wildflowers. Known as “the birth-

to VisitBrenhamTexas.com and pull up

place of Texas,” Brenham offers a perfectly sweet weekend retreat just a

the wildflower driving map. The trail fea-

50-mile jaunt up Highway 290. It’s here that you can get away from it all

tures mile after mile of the prettiest wild-

and witness the spring season ushered in on a blanket of wild blooms.

flowers, plus fun stops in other charming

Brenham is as legendary for its wildflowers as it is for being home

towns like Chappell Hill, Independence,

of the world-famous Blue Bell Creamery. In fact, Brenham is the ideal jumping-off point to explore the 80-mile wildflower trail that takes you

Washington and Burton. For further flowery inspiration, stop by

through Washington County to see nature’s wildflower bouquet of

the Antique Rose Emporium to shop for

Indian paintbrushes, purple cornflowers, buttercups and of course the

plants and flowers or explore the eight

pride of the Texas Hill Country, the bluebonnet. This drive is beautiful at

miles of exquisite display gardens that are

any time, but April generally treats visitors to the most glorious spread,

sure to inspire. Next door Old Baylor Park

sometimes lasting through parts of May depending on the weather.

At Windmill Hill is a lovely spot for a stroll

The wildflower legacy in Texas runs deep. Starting around 1917 when

that has a walking trail, houses the ruins of

the Texas Department of Transportation was first organized, officials

the original Baylor University, and is a prime

noticed that wildflowers always returned before any other vegetation

spot for springtime bluebonnet-peeping.

following road building projects. As a bonus, they recognized that wildflowers also helped prevent soil erosion and looked pretty to boot.

If lavender is more your game, take a field trip to the Chappell Hill Lavender Farm,

By 1934, TxDOT had hired its first landscape architect and began to

just a 15- minute drive from Brenham.

eliminate mowing, except in cases when safety required it, and began

Explore rows of fragrant lavender, have

planting and reseeding wildflowers. Today, officials sow some 30,000

a picnic near the pond or gazebo, enjoy

pounds of wildflower seeds annually resulting in a unique marvel of

the rolling acres of panoramic scenery, or

nature that helps conserve water, protect wildlife habitats and control

browse the shop for goodies like local aro-

erosion on Texas roadways. Brenham visitors continue to see wildflow-

matic bath products or lavender-infused

ers decended from those original seeds planted back in the early 1930s.

culinary items.

Cypress Lifestyle | April 2021

CONTINUED >

+ o

f f icia l b l u e b o n n et fest iva l of t exa s + Chappell Hill Historical Society & Museum April 10th & 11th Free admission; Parking $5. Saturday 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. This event, voted one of the most popular festivals in Texas, offers culinary delights, entertainment, music and unique merchandise from artisans and craftsmen.

CityLifestyle.com/Cypress

ROAD TRIP (CONTINUED)

Vineyard s and B rewe rie s

Accommo dations

Check out the emerging wine and

Brenham has no shortage of hotels,

+ Brenham is near the heart

beer scene in and around Brenham:

bed and breakfasts and more.

+ Windy Winery + Texas Star Winery + Saddlehorn Winery + Pleasant Hill Winery + Brazos Valley Brewing Company

+ Ant Street Inn. Bed down in this

of the bluebonnet region in

+ Brenham was established in 1844

right in downtown.

and named for Republic of Texas

+ The Inn At Dos Brisas. Part luxury

hero Dr. Richard Fox Brenham.

hotel and part organic ranch with

+ Many German immigrants set-

sweeping views and fine dining.

tled here following the German

Bed & Breakfast. Lodge in this stately 1898 home with period interiors & antiques.

Cypress Lifestyle | April 2021

Central Texas.

historic boutique hotel, located

+ Ross Carroll Bennett House

D id You Know?

state revolutions in the late 1840s.

FOOD AND DRINK Visitors to Brenham have no shortage of sweet eats to choose from. From steak and seafood to award-winning barbeque and everything in between, visitors can eat their way through town. For a romantic meal where you can cozy up with your honey, the intimate Volare Italian Restaurant will treat visitors to the traditional flavors of the Matera, Italy countryside. If you’re seeking family fare, you can’t go wrong with the BT Longhorn Saloon. Housed in a historic building with a western vibe, BT Longhorn Saloon features hearty fare like chicken-fried steaks, fried catfish, burgers and more. For lighter fare, try the Funky Art Cafe in downtown Brenham. Part gallery and part cafe, the Funky Art treats visitors to artfully prepared lunches such as sandwiches, wraps, salads and more. FOR THE KIDDOS If you’re enjoying a weekend with the kiddos, fun family adventure awaits in Brenham. The little ones will have plenty to do at Fireman’s Park, which has a skate park, playground, and StoryWalk®, an outdoor reading experience. A special highlight in the park is the Flying Horses Antique Carousel, one of only five surviving classic wood carousels in Texas that kids can still ride. For a truly kid-centric experience, pay a visit to Peeka Ranch in nearby Burton. The ranch is home to more than one hundred alpacas and a quaint gift shop with alpaca products like stuffed animals, hats and clothing. If you want to expose your children to a dash of history, pay a visit to the historic Brenham Fire House, complete with friendly firemen and pristine antique fire engines. A not-to-miss highlight is nearby Washington-on-the-Brazos, a state historic site where the Texas Declaration of Independence was signed on March 2, 1836. The Star of the Republic Museum, Independence Hall and Barrington Living History Farm, give visitors the chance to step back in time and imagine the Hill Country of our forefathers. If you have a longing to escape the hustle and bustle with a quick weekend get-

fu n fa c t s a bout t exa s

away full of nature’s bounty, you can’t go wrong in the birthplace of Texas.

wil d f l owe rs In 1901, lawmakers dubbed the bluebonnet—known scientifically as Lupinus subcarnosus—as the state flower. In 1972, lawmakers expanded the state flower title to include all varieties of the Lupinus flower species. Texas is the only state where you will find the native Lupinus texensis and Lupinus subcarnosus bluebonnet species. There are more than 5,000 wildflower species in the state. Wildflowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, making them good for the environment. While beautiful, bluebonnets are toxic, so keep kids and animals from ingesting them.

CityLifestyle.com/Cypress

HOT SPOT

A Small Kitchen with a Big Heart ANDY’S KITCHEN IN CYPRESS SERVES UP FAMILY-FRIENDLY BURGERS YOU’LL REMEMBER ARTICLE ERICA HERNANDEZ | PHOTOGRAPHY SHANNON VALENTINE ANDY CORRERA’S ROOTS RUN DEEP IN CYPRESS.

“We want the quality to always be consistent,” Andy

He was born here, raised here, played high school football

says. “The only way you can do that is if you actually put

for the Langham Creek Lobos, and worked in the school

your heart into it.”

district for more than 20 years. Now, he’s the namesake

Andy’s Kitchen is the culinary headquarters for Andy’s

behind Andy’s Kitchen, a friendly little neighborhood

eatery and his popular service, We Wagon Catering. Sitting

burger shop in Fairfield. With less than three years in busi-

at one of his tables, Andy tells about how his burgers came

ness, the eatery is known just as much for its flame-grilled

to be so loved. It all started with Andy trying to create some-

burgers as its namesake, Andy. It’s a place he likes to call a

thing different from other burger joints. His patties are made

“small kitchen with a big heart.”

with his personal seasoning -- a blend of brown sugar, garlic CONTINUED >

Cypress Lifestyle | April 2021

CityLifestyle.com/Cypress

HOT SPOT (CONTINUED)

“I’M GOING TO BE ON A MISSION TO DO THE BEST BURGER I CAN POSSIBLY DO.”

and citrus peels. Each patty is a hearty nine-ounce serving

“They’re just very genuine, very humble people,” Kat

that’s hand-pressed, cooked until moist on the grill and

says. “It shows in their food, it shows in the restaurant and

tossed onto the open flame for a fiery finish. It’s brushed

how they treat you.”

with a glaze to seal the flavors together. Finally, it’s gen-

The son of Uruguayan immigrants, food and hard work

tly set between his personally-selected sweet sourdough

was always at the center of Andy’s life. As a teenager, he got

buns that are baked fresh on the grill every day. The result

his first taste of the food industry working in his dad’s restau-

is a burly, flavor-packed burger that takes two hands to eat

rant. The month after Andy graduated from Langham Creek

and leaves your fingers dripping with grease.

High School, he took a job as a school custodian. He worked

“It should be where you gotta wipe your hands after

his way up to a top management position, overseeing the dis-

you take a few bites, because you got the juices com-

trict’s entire custodial department, all while running a cater-

ing out,” Andy says. “You want the flavors to be an

ing business and his own pizza shop on the side. Eventually,

explosion in your mouth.”

Andy sold his pizza business and started a food truck, which

Andy’s burger menu is filled with creative ensembles that

he still uses today. After 26 years in the school district, he

give diners a taste of his personality. There’s the Cowboy

retired to focus on his passion and managed multiple restau-

Burger, topped with smoked sausage, onions and pickles, or

rants. Then, in 2018, he finally opened his own diner.

the Hot Stuff Burger, loaded with grilled jalapenos and onions.

“When I opened it up I said, ‘You know what? I’m

All burgers come with fries or, for a small upcharge, an order

going to be on a mission to do the best burger I can

of fresh-made onion rings which are dipped in a buttermilk

possibly do,’” he says.

batter and fried until golden. Andy’s menu also carries an

But it’s Andy’s love for the community that makes him

ample selection of Philly cheesesteak sandwiches, chicken

adored by his customers. He’s gregarious, giving and

strip baskets, salads and barbecue. But it’s his burgers and

always smiling. Awards recognizing him for food drives,

personal service that regular customers have come to love.

charity cookoffs, donated luncheons for veterans and

“If you’ve never had his hamburger, you don’t know

“Andy is constantly giving,” says Billy Cable, a longtime

who loves to order Andy’s cheeseburger with grilled

customer. “He’s always looking for the next thing to do or

onions. Andy’s food tastes homecooked and he always

people to give to.”

goes “over the top” with his food service, she says. 24

school functions fill the diner walls.

what you’re missing,” says Kat Roy, a Fairfield resident

Cypress Lifestyle | April 2021

Andys.Kitchen | 15202 Mason Rd. Ste 700

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PHOTOGRAPHY JD HALLETT PHOTOGRAPHY

ARTICLE ERICA HERNANDEZ

40 YEARS OF LANDSCAPE DESIGN AND HORTICULTURE AND STILL GOING

LOCALLY OWNED

Mirror Lake Designs

Shawn & Blinda Kelly

Cypress Lifestyle | April 2021

“MOST HORTICULTURALISTS ARE NOT REALLY GREAT AT DESIGN AND MOST LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS DON’T REALLY KNOW PLANTS.I ENDED UP WITH BOTH.” FORTY YEARS AGO, MICHAEL SHAWN KELLY STEPPED OUT

Since then, Shawn has picked up a highly skilled crew, com-

OF HIS EL CAMINO DRESSED IN GYM SHORTS AND A TANK

pleted countless jobs, and established an award-winning land-

TOP. He’d just graduated from college and started his own land-

scape-design firm called Mirror Lake Designs. The company

scaping company. As a one-man-band, Shawn did everything from

specializes in creating livable, outdoor spaces that are both aes-

designing structures to shoveling dirt, but when he showed up to

thetically pleasing and practical. Standing at 6-foot-4 with thick

clients’ homes he was often met with shock.

silvery hair, he tours his show gardens on a balmy afternoon and

They’d say, “where’s your crew?” And I’d say, “unless you grab a

tells stories about how it all started.

CONTINUED >

shovel, you’re looking at it, I’m your crew.”

CityLifestyle.com/Cypress

LOCALLY OWNED (CONTINUED)

“IT’S NOT JUST A VOCATION, IT’S AN ADVOCATION. “WE LOVE IT. WHEN I’M ON VACATION, I’M LOOKING AT FOUNTAINS. I’M LOOKING AT POOLS THINKING ‘THAT’S INTERESTING. HOW DO THEY DO THAT?’ IT NEVER GOES AWAY, BUT I LOVE DOING IT.”

Cypress Lifestyle | April 2021

Shawn – who has dual Texas A&M degrees in horticulture and landscape architecture – fuses his architectural mind and understanding of plant life to create masterful gardens, eye-catching pools, and lavish outdoor kitchens. “Most horticulturalists are not really great at design and most landscape architects don’t really know plants,” Shawn says. “I ended up with both.” This spring, Shawn and his wife, Blinda, celebrate Mirror Lake’s fortieth year in business. Through economic downturns, big jobs and small jobs – and most recently a reduction of business due to COVID-19 – passion keeps them going. That and a crew of loyal craftsmen, some of whom have worked with Shawn for more than 25 years. “It’s not just a vocation, it’s an advocation,” Shawn says. “We love it. When I’m on vacation, I’m looking at fountains. I’m looking at pools thinking ‘that’s interesting. How do they do that?’ It never goes away, but I love doing it.” Shawn’s headquarters is a six-acre property of intricate show gardens, gurgling streams, and soothing ponds. Clients can stroll the pathways and choose structures or plants they enjoy. Shawn gets to know his client’s wants and helps them create a space where they can talk, cook and appreciate human connections. With more people quarantining at home, Shawn believes many have changed their perspective. “A lot of people are prioritizing what’s important to them,” he says. “They miss the face-to-face, real conversations where you’re talking or hugging...You can’t replace that. They want to build places that will help enhance that experience and allow that to happen.” Shawn is an equal part builder and artist. His office is adorned with abstract paintings and plant books. He drafts up landscaping designs often accompanied by libations and Jimmy Buffet tunes. And when it comes to Mirror Lake’s future, he’s nowhere near done building. MirrorLakeDesigns.com

CityLifestyle.com/Cypress

DIY

Benefits of a

chemical-free home

HAVE YOU EVER CONSIDERED WHAT IT WOULD TAKE TO TURN YOUR HOUSEHOLD CHEMICAL-FREE? It's not as hard as you might think! We hear a lot about the dangers of chemical ingredients, but it's easy to ignore all of the warnings and keep using our favorite products. When you don't know of a better alternative, it's just what you do! However, all of those ingredients add up and can make a big difference in your health, as well as the health of your family and pets. The products that are most important to swap out depend on your lifestyle and what you use the most. If your little ones are eating food right off of the counter, you might consider the ingredients from the cleaner you just used to wipe it down and start by switching to a natural method.

ARTICLE HAYLEY HYER

If you have sensitive skin, you might start by taking inventory of your beauty and personal care products to see what you can replace. To get you started, here is a DIY product that you can make yourself for your chemical-free home.

Cypress Lifestyle | April 2021

DIY Laundry Scent Enhancer If you have ever added those popular scent beads to your load of laundry before, you know how lovely it is to pull your amazingly scented clothes out of the dryer. The funny thing about a product like that is it truly has no purpose other than adding a good smell, but it does add lots of chemicals to your daily life! There's a safer and more beneficial way to make your clothes smell heavenly. Try this DIY scent enhancer with your next load of laundry and put it to the test.

Ingredients 3 parts Epsom Salt + 1 part Baking Soda + Essential Oils

Directions Mix your ingredients together in a jar or canister and scoop about ¼ cup directly into the washer basin before adding the clothes—just like you would with scented beads. Continue with your laundry like normal.

Learn More

For more information on starting a chemical-free household, you can browse online resources such as ChemFreeCom.com or find a social media group to join with likeminded people who have some experience from their own trial and error. If you get overwhelmed, remember that you don't have to get rid of all chemicals in one day. Every swap you make is something to celebrate!

CityLifestyle.com/Cypress

Cypress Lifestyle | April 2021

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APRIL

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

10 - 11

PHOTOS WITH THE EASTER BUNNY

BLUEBONNET FESTIVAL

REACH UNLIMITED GOLF CLASSIC

Hippity Hop Hop! The Easter Bunny

The Chappell Hill Festival boasts

Support Reach Unlimited at their

is coming to Towne Lake. Join us

hundreds of exhibitors, delicious

annual golf tournament with spe-

for socially-distanced photos with

country-style food, live entertain-

cial guest Bret Favre. Sponsorships

the Easter Bunny! He will be taking

ment and music, and tours of the

and Foursomes are available. Reach

photos from 9am - 12pm. Each family

historic community. Declared the

Unlimited impacts the lives of more than

will receive an onsite printout of the

“Official

300 individuals with intellectual and

photo and a digital copy sent to their

Texas” by the Texas Legislature and

developmental disabilities to help them

phones. We will also have a balloon

voted #7 as “Most Popular Festival in

Live, Learn and Earn as contributing

artist and Easter egg grab bags.

Texas” by Texas Highways magazine.

members of our community. Building

Free admission; Parking $10. Hours:

sustainable opportunities during this

Sat 9AM -6PM, Sun 10AM - 5PM.

difficult time is attainable with your sup-

The Lakehouse at Towne Lake

9-MAY 2

Bluebonnet

Festival

port. ReachUnlimited.org

MAMA'S BOY, A PLAY BY ROB URBINATI Stageworks Theatre

The riveting story of Lee Harvey

10 PEEL FOR A PURPOSE CRAWFISH BOIL Show Sports Farm, Magnolia, TX

28 CFEF SALUTE TO THE STARS

Oswald and his complex relation-

Join Boots for Troops in partnership

ship with his overbearing mother,

with Moffitt Services for their annual

Salute to the Stars recognizes CFISD

Marguerite, Mama’s Boy follows

crawfish boil. Event includes crawfish

Teacher of the Year Honorees. Each

Marguerite's reckless attempts to

and other food vendors, live entertain-

campus principal selects a Teacher of

reunite her family, from Lee's return

ment all day including country star

the Year for their outstanding dedication

to the U.S. from Russia, through the

Jake Bush, fun houses for the kids,

to area students. Paraeducators and

assassination of Kennedy, to her

and a silent auction. Donate items for

support staff recipients are selected

son's own murder and her defense

our care packages fundraiser. One

by supervisors for their outstanding

of his innocence in the months that

hundred percent of proceeds benefit

dedication through their notable work

follow. Directed by Debra Schultz.

Boots For Troops. Get your tickets

on campus. Doors open at 6PM and the

StageWorksHouston.org

pre-sale for $5 at Valortix.com

event starts at 7PM. TheCFEF.org

30-MAY 1

BOYS & GIRLS COUNTRY PEDAL FOR A PURPOSE

2021 CY-HOPE SPORTING CLAY TOURNAMENT

THE CYPRESS MARKET @ CY-HOPE

Westside Sporting Grounds

Join us April 30th and May 1st for our

This fully-supported

Waller ISD Stadium

Houston National Golf Club

Chappell Hill, TX

Berry Center

Cy-Hope Campus

ride starts

Schedule starts with lunch and

first annual The Cypress Market @

and finishes at Waller ISD stadium,

check-in at 11:30AM. Tournament

Cy-Hope. We'll have unique artisan

and offers three routes including 22,

starts at 1PM with awards at 3:30PM.

vendors for your shopping pleasure on

45 and 70 miles on mostly coun-

All teams receive 100 clays, ammo and

the beautiful grounds of our Cy-Hope

try roads both south and north of

lunch. Email hollie.calbat@cy-hope.

Headquarters. Our VIP event is

Hempstead. Cyclists will encoun-

org or derek.lewis@cy-hope.org for

Friday evening from 6:30-9:30. On

ter both flat sections and gentle

more information about registration

Saturday from 9AM - 5PM shop-

rollers. Staggered rides start from

and available sponsorships. Proceeds

ping and crawfish bowl is open to

7:30AM to 8:00AM. Registration is

benefit Cy-Hope and its programs

the public. Get vendor information

$40 or $50 onsite. Proceeds benefit

helping the Cy-Fair disadvantaged

by emailing TheCypressMarket@

Boys and Girls Country.

youth. Cy-Hope.org

Cy-Hope.org.

Cypress Lifestyle | April 2021