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THE REAL KEYS TO HEALTH AND LONGEVITY TREES FOR HOUSTON HITS A MAJOR MILESTONE
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HOST THE SUMMER EVENT EVERYONE TALKS ABOUT
When an injury puts you on the sidelines, your Houston Methodist orthopedic team puts expertise into play. We’ll customize a minimally invasive treatment plan to get you back out there — doing the things you love.
That’s the difference between practicing medicine and leading it. For you.
houstonmethodist.org/orthopedics 713.790.3333
Spring in Houston is invigorating and full of possibilities. The weather is beautiful, families are outside more often, and Easter brings a sense of celebration, renewal, and fresh starts. It’s a season that naturally invites us to reflect on what we’re building and where we’re growing.
This month, we’re exploring the idea of investment. While that word often suggests financial growth and long-term planning, it also speaks to something deeper - how we choose to spend our time, our energy, and our attention.
Investment can look like planting roots that outlast us. Our cover story on Trees for Houston celebrates an extraordinary milestone: one million trees planted across our city. That kind of commitment reshapes a landscape for generations. It’s proof that steady, intentional action creates lasting beauty and impact.
Investment can also mean restoration. In this issue, we travel to Destin to explore Newman-Dailey’s concierge approach to vacationing - a thoughtfully curated experience designed around relaxation, wellness, and meaningful time away. This was a very special trip I took with a handful of my friends last November. They are publishers with woman-owned businesses also and we enjoyed the most amazing trip where we unplugged, reconnected over laughter and stories, and exhaled deeply. Sometimes stepping away is what allows us to return stronger.
And in “Life Beyond Football,” we share a conversation with Tim Tebow about purpose, service, and the ways he is building impact far beyond the field.
Easter reminds us that renewal is real. My hope is that this issue encourages you to reflect on what you’re nurturing - in your family, your health, your community, and your future . . . and where you might invest more intentionally in the months ahead.
With appreciation,
SUZANNE SCHAKETT, PUBLISHER @MEMORIALLIFESTYLE
April 2026
PUBLISHER
Suzanne Schakett | suzanne.schakett@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Gabi De la Rosa | gabi.delarosa@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Kayla Bokemeyer | kayla.bokemeyer@citylifestyle.com
SALES DIRECTOR
Suzanne Schakett | suzanne.schakett@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
Jennifer Kahlden | jennifer.kahlden@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Arielle Alston | arielle.alston@citylifestyle.com
SALES SUPPORT COORDINATOR
Savannah Schakett
INTERN
Antonio De la Rosa
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Allyson Straczek
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
DizzyMedia
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
Learn
3:5-6
Spring is the season of fresh beginnings — and the perfect time to showcase your home at its best.
Sherry and her team are highly knowledgeable and professional. They exceeded my expectation, from negotiation skills to marketing and up-todate technology. Highly recommended!”
— Energy Realty Client
With years of experience in Houston’s fast-moving market, Broker and Founder Sherry Campbell knows presentation is key. From smart pricing and marketing to expert staging, Energy Realty helps sellers make a strong impression. Personalized service, skilled negotiation, and tailored strategies guide clients through every step, ensuring homes stand out this spring.
Caesar Event Rentals brings refined style and precision to Houston’s most exclusive gatherings, offering limitless customization, pristine inventory, and seamless
One million trees have strengthened Houston’s neighborhoods citywide.
How Newman-Dailey’s deep roots in Destin craft the perfect wellness retreat
A curated skin reset for luminous, summer-ready confidence.
Physician-directed laser resurfacing and precision micro needling restore tone, refine texture, and stimulate collagen, thoughtfully tailored to reveal radiant skin before the summer sun arrives.
King Ranch and Clint Orms
Unveil Limited Edition
Heirloom Silver Collection
Two legendary Texas brands, King Ranch and Clint Orms Silversmiths & Engravers, recently unveiled an exclusive limited-edition collaboration featuring five hand-engraved sterling silver pieces: the Running W belt buckle, Running W money clip, Running W scarf slide, Bull belt buckle and Bull money clip. Each design draws from historic King Ranch symbolism, including the iconic Running W brand and Monkey, the legendary foundation sire of the Santa Gertrudis breed.
The lineup reflects both the Company’s rich legacy and its continued artistic evolution. Audiences will see the return of beloved productions including Pecos Bill, Madame Butterfly, and Swan Lake, works that have resonated deeply with Houston audiences. The season also features works by acclaimed choreographers Lar Lubovitch and Justin Peck, alongside a new creation from emerging voice and Houston Ballet company member Jacquelyn Long.
Photography by A mitava Sarkar (2016 ). Courtesy of Houston Ballet
Photography
by
Annette Boatwright
ARTICLE BY ALLYSON STRACZEK
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CAESAR EVENT RENTALS
From weddings to corporate galas, each event receives tailored planning and precise execution from the team at Caesar Event Rentals.
CAESAR EVENT RENTALS BRINGS REFINED STYLE AND PRECISION TO HOUSTON’S MOST EXCLUSIVE GATHERINGS, OFFERING LIMITLESS CUSTOMIZATION, PRISTINE INVENTORY, AND SEAMLESS SERVICE FOR ANY EVENT.
Curated furnishings transform gatherings into refined, memorable experiences.
Since May 2023, Caesar Event Rentals has designed and produced sophisticated events in Houston. Whether the occasion is a corporate event or a small personal gathering, each affair receives white-glove service.
“Our team never says no,” explains Yuval Miller, CEO, Caesar Event Rentals, Houston. “We are here 24/7 to support every client and give them full peace of mind. There are no limitations to what we do for our customers. Whatever their vision is for the event, we make it our top priority because we love what we do.” From the front office to the event staff, the team responds quickly and thoughtfully to ensure each event feels seamless and special.
Whether it is a wedding, gala, corporate gathering, or private celebration, Caesar Event Rentals is equipped to handle events of any size, from small, intimate gatherings to groups of more than 5,000 people. “Unlike other companies, we do not have minimum spends on any occasion. Everyone should be able to have a gathering,” says Miller.
The team at Caesar Event Rentals handles everything from the quote to the cleanup. “All events are curated with precision and excellence,” explains Miller. “It’s important to work through a custom package for each client and then execute with flawless, on-time delivery, expert setup, and breakdown.”
Caesar Event Rentals takes particular pride in its curated furniture selection, offering clients pieces that elevate any event setting. New furniture is carefully maintained before and after each event. Care is taken to load and unload the furniture to keep it polished, clean, and unscratched. With a wide variety of furniture styles, customers can stay current on Houston’s latest styles as well as classic and elegant looks. Plus, with multiple locations across the country, there is no shortage of inventory to meet the customers’ needs.
In addition to furniture, Caesar Event Rentals provides tableware, linens, lighting, decor, and outdoor fixtures, including cabanas, tents, and couches. caesareventrentals.com
Caesar Event Rentals carries an extensive inventory of furniture, lighting, and decor which allows for complete customization for celebrations of any size.
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ONE MILLION TREES HAVE STRENGTHENED HOUSTON’S NEIGHBORHOODS CITYWIDE.
On a recent morning in Sam Houston Park, a live oak was planted in the ground adjacent to the 1847 Kellum Noble House. With that ceremonial planting, Trees For Houston marked its one millionth tree, a milestone more than four decades in the making.
ARTICLE BY MEMORIAL LIFESTYLE STAFF
Founded in 1983 as the Live Oak Society, Trees For Houston began with a mission to plant, protect, and promote trees across the greater Houston area. Since then, the nonprofit has reached every Houston City Council district, providing shade along with resilience in neighborhoods that need both.
“Reaching one million trees is a milestone built over four decades by volunteers, supporters, and partners who believed Houston’s neighborhoods deserve a healthier, greener future,” said Barry Ward, Executive Director of Trees For Houston. “This milestone is a moment to reflect and to take the next step: planting and distributing more trees, strengthening the care that helps them thrive, and growing partnerships that can extend this impact beyond Houston over time.”
In a city that is often defined by concrete and humidity, trees do more than just beautify. They produce oxygen, cool streets, clean the air, reduce energy bills, and help manage stormwater. As more trees are planted in urban areas, the benefits increase, particularly in communities historically lacking green space.
Mayor John Whitmire joined community leaders and longtime partners for the celebration. “I congratulate Trees For Houston on this important milestone,” he said. “Trees bring beauty and shade to our neighborhoods and improve the air we breathe. Each tree is a symbol of our resilience and reflects who we are as a city today and the legacy we are building for the future.”
Over the years, the organization’s efforts have reshaped some of Houston’s most visible corridors. Trees For Downtown planted 2,400 live oaks along downtown streets. The Parkway Project added trees across 50 miles of major thoroughfares, including Kirby Drive, San Jacinto Street, Broadway Street, and
Navigation Boulevard. Freeways to Treeways introduced more than 9,000 trees and seedlings along major highways, one of the first large-scale urban reforestation programs in a U.S. city.
Beyond headline projects, Trees For Houston has invested deeply in the community. Programs like Trees For School, NeighborWoods, and Tribute Groves place trees directly into neighborhoods, while Let’s Grow supports nonprofit partners with containerized trees from its nursery. Corporate plantings and adoption events have mobilized thousands of volunteers.
In 2023, the opening of The Kinder Campus, home to the Kyle and John Kirksey Center, Chevron Tree Nursery, and Bauer Education Center, gave the organization its first permanent base. Backed by more than $1.3 million in support from Chevron and a 25-year partnership, Trees For Houston will keep investing in a greener, cooler, more resilient city, one tree at a time. treesforhouston.org
How Newman-Dailey’s deep roots in Destin craft the perfect wellness retreat
ARTICLE BY COAST TO COAST & CO. PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRISTEN EVANS PHOTOGRAPHY
In a world that moves at an exhausting pace, taking intentional time for yourself has become more than a luxury—it’s a vital part of whole-person wellness. Surrounding yourself with the right people plays a powerful role in that wellbeing. Close friends who uplift, encourage, and ground you can help restore emotional balance, reignite joy, and strengthen the sense of connection that many of us lose in the rush of daily life. This is why planning a retreat with the right support system, in the right environment, can be truly transformative. And when it comes to crafting a wellness-focused escape in beautiful Destin, Florida, Newman-Dailey stands as the ultimate concierge.
Wellness isn’t just about spa days and quiet mornings—it’s about aligning every element of your environment and your relationships to support your best self. Newman Daily understands this holistic approach. Their concierge service is designed to remove stress, create intentional experiences, and curate moments that allow you and your friends to reconnect, replenish, and realign. From the first planning call to the final sunset, they focus on crafting a retreat that nourishes the mind, body, and spirit.
Their deep connections within the Destin community elevate every aspect of your stay. One of the most enriching experiences they offer is the opportunity to enjoy the culinary mastery of personal chef David Cunningham. Sharing a fresh, thoughtfully prepared meal with friends isn’t just delicious—it’s a form of relational and nutritional wellness, bringing everyone together in a way that feels grounding and joyful.
To support emotional and social wellbeing, Newman-Dailey can put you in touch with the right people to coordinate a dinner cruise. We enjoyed an incredible experience with Solaris’ newest vessel, Sol y Luna, where breathtaking views and gentle ocean breezes set the tone for meaningful conversations and moments of pure calm.
Evenings spent at The Edge—one of Destin’s local favorites—added an additional layer of connection and enjoyment. With stunning waterfront dining and a lively yet relaxing atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to unwind, celebrate friendship, and savor the coastal lifestyle. During our dinner there was live music and an incredible customer experience from the staff.
For the foundation of your retreat, NewmanDailey’s valued clients enjoy access to their turnkey rental, Blessings by the Beach. Designed with comfort and ease in mind, this home creates the ideal space for rest, reflection, and rejuvenation. It’s where mornings begin peacefully, laughter echoes through shared spaces, and the simple act of slowing down becomes a gift in itself.
Whole wellness starts with the choice to prioritize yourself and surround yourself with people who elevate your life. With Newman-Dailey guiding the journey, your Destin retreat becomes a meaningful, restorative experience—one that nurtures relationships, renews your spirit, and brings you back to center.
“Wellness isn’t just about spa days and quiet mornings— it’s about aligning every element of your environment and your relationships to support your best self.”
“Close friends who uplift, encourage, and ground you can help restore emotional balance, reignite joy, and strengthen the sense of connection that many of us lose in the rush of daily life.”
ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SABRINA MISKELLY
KOLACHE SHOPPE TEAMED WITH BRENNAN’S OF HOUSTON TO COMBINE CRAWFISH, ANDOUILLE, AND CREAMY SAUCE IN AN ONLY-IN-HOUSTON KOLACHE.
April is crawfish season in Houston, and Bayou City restaurants make the most of the mudbugs by turning them into innovative dishes. One must-try collaboration is the Crawfish & Andouille Kolache, created by Kolache Shoppe and Brennan’s of Houston. Inspired by Brennan’s signature dish of poached eggs, Hollandaise, and crawfish-loaded Kacal sauce, this kolache features fresh crawfish and Andouille sausage in a rich, creamy filling that is uniquely Texan. kolacheshoppe.com
Since 1970, Kolache Shoppe has used the original dough recipe first developed by founder Erwin Ahrens with the help of TexasCzech grandmas. “Pillow soft and lightly sweet, it’s an enriched yeast dough that pairs beautifully with both sweet and savory fillings,” says Michael Hines, Director of Operations and co-owner of Kolache Shoppe’s Memorial location.
The dough is the same for this kolache as for others, but Brennan’s kitchen thickens the sauce so it holds up better inside the pastry.
“To help it hold up in the kolache dough, we swap some of the original recipe’s butter for cream cheese, so the final mix is thicker,” says Carl Walker, General Manager at Brennan’s of Houston.
The kolache is filled with chopped Andouille sausage and Gulf crawfish tails in a creamy, spiced sauce inspired by Brennan’s Kacal sauce. “To prepare the filling, we render the Andouille, add the crawfish tail meat, Creole seasoning, garlic, Crystal hot sauce, house Worcestershire sauce, cream cheese, and a little touch of butter roux, and finish with the green onions and bread crumbs,” explains Walker.
Hines notes that the combination works well with the dough: “The slightly sweet kolache dough helps tame the spice and smokiness of the crawfish and Andouille, complementing each other versus competing. The dough’s stability and softness hold the filling well, allowing you to enjoy its texture. It’s also just fun to have Cajun staples like crawfish and Andouille combined with another local Texas staple like kolaches.”
Brennan’s Kacal sauce is a creamy seafood sauce inspired by the French Nantua sauce, traditionally made with crawfish. The Andouille addition was suggested by a Brennan’s regular, Mr. Bill Kacal, and became a signature part of the dish.
Advanced diagnostics and specialists create personalized plans to improve metabolism, recovery, disease prevention, and longevity.
Plais Medical is a Houston-based longevity and performance clinic that uses precision testing to extend patients’ health span and improve quality of life. Using a concierge-style approach, Plais Medical longevity specialists aim to extend patients’ health and lifespan through data-driven transformation.
Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Maurice Leibman, explains, “At our longevity and anti-aging clinic, we look beyond routine screening and traditional medicine and focus on proactive rather than reactive care. We believe aging is a biological process that can be slowed, and some aspects may even be stopped one day.”
At Plais, every treatment is personalized to each patient's biology. Personalized care manages an individual’s risk factors early in the course of an illness and can delay or prevent disease progression. They look for trend changes, early inflection points, and functional decline before diagnosis. “We are all different, we don’t all age at the same pace, we don’t all respond the same way to stress and trauma, and our organs all age at a different pace,” says Dr. Leibman.
Data-driven transformation is based on a core belief in diagnostics and individualization with the Plais 5M Strategy. The first step is to create a comprehensive view of a patient’s health through blood panels, genetic testing,
and lifetime analyses. Next, the Plais team will work directly with patients to set realistic, achievable health goals. Monitoring health indicators ensures the personalized program stays on track, even with adjustments to exercise or supplements. The fifth step is movement – deliberate, proactive actions toward a healthier lifestyle.
When getting started, it’s important for patients to understand their baseline health data.
“This data makes prevention personal and urgent. Aging becomes trackable, and not mysterious, and we can know which organs are aging faster– and which are resilient,” says Dr. Leibman.
Plais uses advanced technology to help patients make smarter, more proactive health decisions. “With advanced diagnostics, a client can see and understand what is happening in their body early on and can act before damage accumulates. Are you aging faster or slower than your peers? If so, which systems are driving this aging?
ARTICLE BY ALLYSON STRACZEK PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF PLAIS MEDICAL
This information is important in longevity medicine, as inflammation (detected by biomarkers) is a common denominator across cardiovascular disease, neurodegeneration, osteoporosis, cancer, and frailty,” Dr. Leibman explains.
With all of this data at patients’ fingertips, the team at Plais Medical wants to continue to shift the focus from treating disease, which is reactive, to optimizing how the body reacts over time – a proactive approach. “Our focus is extending your health span, establishing how
well your body is functioning, and keeping it well for decades to come. Lifestyle changes, such as diet, exercise, sleep, and stress management, are at the core of a good health span,” says Dr. Leibman.
People considering long-term wellness learn that aging begins in the early 20s for both men and women, according to Dr. Leibman. “Stable glucose, low visceral fat, insulin sensitivity, and reduced insulin resistance are vital for metabolic and cognitive health. Patients can focus on exercise – especially strength training, walking, swimming, and a Mediterranean diet.”
For patients with glucose control issues, Plais recommends continuous glucose monitoring to understand how different foods affect blood glucose. Dr. Leibman advises that “long-term glucose stability appears to be essential for neuroprotection.”
A step everyone can take to improve quality of life and longevity is to prioritize consistent, high-quality sleep each night. According to Dr. Leibman, it is an essential part of the longevity algorithm. plais.ai
Uptown Appliance Repair, a local provider of reliable repair services for premium brands, recommends preventive maintenance to extend the life of household appliances.
HOW DOES ROUTINE APPLIANCE MAINTENANCE AVOID COSTLY BREAKDOWNS, UNEXPECTED DOWNTIME, AND EMERGENCY REPAIR SITUATIONS ?
Appliance repairs are unexpected, and obtaining qualified, same-day service can be challenging. Conducting annual or semiannual maintenance can save thousands of dollars in repair costs if a unit breaks down. Ensuring condenser coils are cleaned, dryer vents are free of obstructions, and dishwasher filters are maintained can help prevent additional work on the
condenser, dryer heating element, dishwasher motor, and drain pump. For refrigerators, ranges, dishwashers, washers, and dryers, maintenance helps prevent the motor from overheating, reducing the risk of future repairs.
FOR HOMEOWNERS INVESTING IN HIGH-END OR SPECIALTY APPLIANCES, HOW DOES A LONG-TERM MAINTENANCE PROGRAM PROVIDE PEACE OF MIND?
An annual investment in maintenance can help ensure the full lifespan of appliances, which for most high-end models is more than 25 years. For example, having the condenser coils cleaned annually can prevent the need for a condenser replacement, which can cost thousands.
Annual, factory-trained maintenance safeguards high-end appliances, prevents costly failures, preserves warranties, ensures seamless performance, and maintains peace of mind.
ARTICLE BY ALLYSON STRACZEK
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JACOB POWER PHOTOGRAPHY
WHY IS WORKING WITH CERTIFIED SPECIALISTS AND GENUINE PARTS CRITICAL FOR PRESERVING THE PERFORMANCE AND WARRANTIES OF LUXURY APPLIANCES?
High-end appliances typically feature more advanced technology than standard models, so it's best to have someone knowledgeable about the specific model to service the unit. Additionally, each part works in harmony with the others. It's important to use genuine parts so they perform exactly as the manufacturer recommends, helping extend the appliance's lifespan.
WHAT KINDS OF SUBTLE ISSUES DO FACTORY-TRAINED TECHNICIANS IDENTIFY DURING ROUTINE MAINTENANCE?
In homes with pets, a dirty refrigerator condenser is a concern because of pet hair. To keep dishwashers working at their best, we recommend always rinsing dishes before loading the dishwasher to reduce buildup in the drain pump and filter. Washing machine filter lines should be cleaned or cleared regularly to prevent buildup. Dirty dryer vents are common with use, so they must be cleaned to prevent overheating of the dryer’s heating element. We recommend biannual maintenance of wine cellars to keep the unit working properly in Houston's heat and to prevent evaporator leaks.
WHAT SETS UPTOWN APPLIANCE REPAIR APART?
Upton Appliance Repair provides a comprehensive two-year parts-and-labor warranty. Our technicians are factory-trained, and customer satisfaction is our priority. No matter what, the customer is always right, and we will address any issues to ensure their satisfaction. Referrals are extremely important to us, and we want every person to leave feeling pleased with our services.
uptownappliancerepair.com
An exclusive Q&A with City Lifestyle
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
From championship trophies to global humanitarian impact, Tim Tebow’s journey has defied every standard playbook. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Tebow pulls back the curtain on the moments that truly defined him, from a humbling middle school church retreat to the life-altering shift of fatherhood. This isn’t just a look back at a career; it’s an invitation into the heart of a man driven by purpose. Read the highlights below, then join us for the full, unfiltered experience by scanning the QR code at the end.
Q: WE ALL KNOW YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS ON THE FOOTBALL FIELD, BUT TELL US ABOUT THE CURL CONTEST.
A: I was competing for my future high school team (my brother’s team), and I pushed myself way past what was smart. I ended up collapsing and needing medical attention. But what stayed with me wasn’t the pain, it was the lesson. Would I be willing to do something that others aren’t? For much of my life, I strived to bring my best for a game, but I hope that I can say at the end of my life I was willing to do that for things that actually matter.
Q: YOU’VE ACHIEVED SO MUCH IN SPORTS. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT NOW?
A: Becoming a dad. Nothing compares. From the moment I knew my wife was pregnant, I felt a new depth of love for our child, but when you bring your baby home, the responsibility hits you like nothing else. Suddenly, everything you see, every decision you make, you’re asking, “Is this corner too sharp? What happens if she reaches that drawer?” It changes how you see the world and how you see other people.
Q: YOU’VE SPOKEN OPENLY ABOUT DISAPPOINTMENT, ESPECIALLY AROUND FOOTBALL. HOW DID THAT SEASON OF LIFE SHAPE YOU?
A: I talked a lot about that very thing in my book Shaken . We all go through moments where our faith in our abilities and purpose feels rattled, but I believe it’s often in those storms when God can show us who we could become.
Q: YOU TALK A LOT ABOUT COMPARISON CULTURE. WHY DO YOU BELIEVE COMPARISON HAS BECOME SUCH A TRAP TODAY?
A: Because we’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel. Social media shows people’s “best day,” often filtered and staged, and then we measure our reality against that. There’s a reason filters are so popular—it’s not real. We end up scrolling through images that don’t tell the full story, and without realizing it, comparison starts to steal our joy and our gratitude.
“We’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel... comparison starts to steal our joy.”
Q: YOUR FOUNDATION FOCUSES ON THE “MOST VULNERABLE.” WHERE DID THAT CALLING BEGIN?
A: When I was 15, I met a boy in the Philippines who was treated as a throwaway because he was born with physical differences. That moment changed me. I realized God was calling me to pursue a different kind of MVP, not “Most Valuable Player,” but “Most Vulnerable People.”
Q: FINALLY, WHAT’S ONE THING PEOPLE MIGHT BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?
A: I have some weird coffee habits, which include protein powder, collagen, and cream all mixed together. I love golf dates with my wife. And every night, I bring snacks to bed to share with our dogs. It brings me more joy than it probably should.
This conversation barely scratches the surface. Tim goes deeper into the moments that rattled him, the joys of fatherhood, and one story he has never shared publicly until now. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on Share the Lifestyle Podcast.
ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Jess Smith is the founder of the popular food blog InquiringChef.com, which she started in 2010 after moving to Thailand with her husband. She explored Thai cuisine, took cooking classes, and documented her experiences on the blog. Over time, her passion for cooking grew, leading her to focus on quick, easy meals for families. Today, Inquiring Chef receives over 5 million page views annually and supports a small team. She shares new recipes weekly through email, her blog, and social media, helping home cooks simplify mealtime without sacrificing flavor.
Smith is now an author. Her debut cookbook, Start with a Vegetable, published in 2025 reimagines meal planning by putting vegetables at the center of the plate.
“Start with a Vegetable was the result of a natural transition in the way I started thinking about preparing dinner for my family. At the end of a busy day, I often didn't have the energy to think about dinner in parts by preparing a separate protein, vegetable, and starch,” says Smith. “I realized that if I put a vegetable at the center of the dish, the rest was easy to fill in.”
The book features 100 flexible recipes proving vegetables aren’t just a side—they’re key to simple, satisfying meals.
As chief recipe developer for the Cook Smarts meal-planning app, Smith worked closely with families struggling to get dinner on the table. She noticed a common challenge: people wanted to eat more vegetables but didn’t know how to build meals around them.
“As I started planning and testing recipes for the book, I just loved how easy it made dinnertime feel. Are there carrots in the fridge? Here are a bunch of ways to turn them into dinner. Nearly all of the 100 recipes are complete meals and include easy swaps to make them vegetarian. The book is truly flexitarian, with vegetable-forward recipes for all types of eaters.”
Unlike most cookbooks, Start with a Vegetable is organized by ingredient. Each chapter focuses on a different vegetable, offering multiple ways to turn it into a meal.
“The concept is resonating with many readers who tell me they love that the chapters are organized by vegetable, making it easy to use whatever they have on hand.”
Smith went through a rigorous testing process, starting with over 300 ideas before narrowing them down to 100.
“I always have running lists of recipe ideas. I started sorting recipes into categories, making sure there was variety for each vegetable. I wanted different cooking methods and types of dishes, so each chapter might have a soup, a salad, a roasted dish, a stove-top dish, and a sandwich or pasta.”
After perfecting the recipes in her own kitchen, she passed them to a trusted friend, an everyday home cook, to ensure they worked under realworld conditions.
“I want to know how these recipes worked for a home cook who was shopping at regular grocery stores and trying to make dinner for a family on a weeknight. She sends me feedback on any ingredients that are hard to find, anything that is unclear in the recipe, and tracks how long it takes her to make it with real-life interruptions.”
To further refine the book, Smith enlisted 30 volunteer home cooks through Instagram and her email list to test the recipes.
“My goal was to ensure that the recipes in this book are reliable, easy, and adaptable. I wanted this to be a cookbook for real home cooks. I'm so grateful to that team of volunteers for helping to ensure that it is.”
To order a copy of the cookbook visit: InquiringChef.com
Sweet carrots and tart cranberries complement each other in every bite of this tangy couscous. It makes a light meal on its own but becomes a showstopper when spread on a platter and topped with braised meat, roasted cauliflower steaks, or seared tofu.
• 1 pound carrots
• one 15½-ounce can chickpeas
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1½ teaspoons ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for boiling
• ½ cup orange juice
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup dry regular or whole wheat couscous
• ⅓ cup sliced almonds
• 1 lemon
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Step 1. Preheat the oven to 425°F
Step 2. Peel the carrots and slice them diagonally into 1-inch ovals. Drain and rinse the chickpeas
Step 3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the carrots and chickpeas with 1 tablespoon of the olive oil, cumin, ginger, dried thyme, and ½ teaspoon of the salt, coating evenly.
Step 4. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the seasoned veggies and chickpeas on it in an even layer.
Step 5. Bake until the carrots become tender, 25 to 30 minutes. Stir halfway through cooking.
Step 6. Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan over high heat, combine the orange juice, water, and ½ teaspoon of salt. When the mixture begins to boil, remove it from the heat, stir in the couscous, cover, and let stand for 5 minutes.
Step 7. When the carrots become tender, sprinkle the almonds on them and continue baking until the almonds lightly toast, 4 to 5 more minutes.
Step 8. Juice the lemon for 1 tablespoon fresh juice.
Step 9. In the same mixing bowl used to season the veggies, whisk together the lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and the cranberries.
Step 10. Fluff the couscous with a fork and add it to the carrots, chickpeas, and almonds. Stir well to combine.
Step 11. Serve warm or refrigerate for 30 minutes and serve chilled. Just before serving, stir in the parsley.
APRIL 1ST
Sarofim Hall | 7:30 PM
The hit 80's franchise is the latest movie sensation to receive a Broadway musical adaptation. The production follows Marty McFly and kooky scientist Doc Brown as they travel through space and time, finding themselves in a series of mishaps. Conceived by the film's original creators, this brand-new musical adaptation is directed by John Rando.
APRIL 7TH
Sarofim Hall - Hobby Center | 7:30 PM
Move over Hamilton, there's a new soundtrack in town and it's just as infectious. Henry VIII's six wives are stepping out from the big man's shadow to take their turn in the spotlight in this epically good new musical! Created by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, SIX is a celebration of girl power - from the 16th Century to today.
APRIL 7TH
Jones Hall for the Performing Arts | 7:30 PM
Now a true phenomenon in the world of entertainment, the Blue Man Group has come a long way since their inception in the late '80s. The drums and bright paint remain, but the rest of the show has had several injections of technological trickery, current cultural references, and refreshed humor.
APRIL 9TH
Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land | 7:00 PM
ABC's number one entertainment show is hitting the road! This year, the multi-Emmy award-winning DWTS is heading out of the studio and into your local dance hall. Featuring some of the show's most popular competitors, this live tour will recreate the most memorable dances from the program's previous seasons, as well as showcase brand new never-before-seen routines.
APRIL 10TH
Smart Financial Centre | 8:00 PM
The front runners of eighties soft-rock and still evolving, Air Supply knows how to write a love song, creating the illusion of romance with sweeping ballads and sweet melodies. Touring now, an evening the Aussie mega-stars will enchant, as they play from their compelling and vast back catalog.
APRIL 22ND
Bruno Mars
NRG Stadium | 7:00 PM
The king of retro pop is bringing his 150-million-record-selling discography, including some of the most famous songs of all time, such as Uptown Funk, Locked Out of Heaven and That's What I Like, now with the new addition of his upcoming fifth studio album, The Romantic, which follows his 2021 collaborative album An Evening with Silk Sonic
CONTINUED
APRIL 24TH
Houston Grand OperaThe Barber of Seville
Brown Theater | 7:30 PM
Enjoy the madcap comedy The Barber of Seville, as the mischievous Count Almavira and his wily servant Figaro strive to woo beautiful Rosina right out from under the nose of her minder, Dr. Bartolo. With devious disguises and meddlesome mishaps, the fate of the heart of this young girl is one thrilling and hilarious ride
APRIL 24TH
David Byrne in Concert
Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land | 8:00 PM
Former Talking Heads frontman and all-around excellent human David Byrne graces us with an ambitious new tour in support of his latest record, 'Who Is the Sky?' – his first solo release since 2018's American Utopia. In typical Byrne style, expect a spectacle that combines his musicianship and artistry as he presents favorites old and new in this new era.
APRIL 28TH
The Mel Robbins Show
Smart Financial Center | 7:30 PM
This brand-new tour comes straight off the back of her book, which has topped every bestseller list imaginable, including The New York Times, Amazon, and Audible. The idea is simple: just two words can free you from the constraints of others. Now, hear how to do it live with the greatest inspirational speaker and life coach of our time, Mel Robbins.
In a world that rarely slows down, give her the gift of a community that does Seahorse Estates isn't just a destination; it’s a sanctuary designed to take the weight off her shoulders From the moment you arrive, the stress of the city is carried off by the ocean breeze, and fades into the sound of the surf. Unwind under a private beach cabana, and enjoy a vacation curated by our on-site concierge team
Skip the I-45 and Galveston traffic We are located just one hour south of Houston down Highway 288 Your retreat is a straight shot away
Vacations should be stressfree Our on-site property management handles everything from the reservation to coordinating special touches and beyond
From birthdays to unforgettable anniversaries, we specialize in creating spectacular moments. As the only allin-one beachfront wedding and event venue on the Texas Gulf Coast, our dedicated team is here to ensure every celebration is extraordinary.
Surprise her with our complimentary beach cabana service Your chairs will be set up and waiting on our uncrowded, expansive shoreline
Picnic under the new entertainment pavilion, challenge the family to one of the many outdoor games, and enjoy a stroll down the boardwalk
Secure the home of her dreams, an oasis the family wants to visit year after year and that is convenient for everyone to get to Our new construction 5 & 6-bedroom homes feature generous indoor and outdoor living areas, elevators, and beach & bay views