Southlake, TX April 2026

What’s new in Southlake to invest YOURSELF in!

Investment. By definition, it’s the act of dedicating time, energy, or resources toward something with the hope of a worthwhile return. But in practice, it’s so much more. Whether it’s our community, relationships, finances, or personal growth, the things we invest in shape our futures and the lives of those around us.

We can invest in our community by supporting local businesses, schools, and organizations. Volunteering and mentoring are powerful ways to contribute to future generations. On a broader scale, participating in public surveys and staying informed about city planning are investments in the places we call home.

Financial investments help us build security and achieve long-term goals. If you are looking for a help with financial investments look no further than Lasater Capital. Tie and his team can have you set up with a plan to secure your financial future. Personal investments—spending quality time with loved ones or fostering deeper connections—bring immeasurable rewards to both ourselves and the people we care about.  Investing in yourself can have reaching effects to the world around you. Learn a new language, learn to dance, or even invest in a new "look" to mirror a new view on life. Roy, owner of XAR Clothiers in Southlake Town Square will have you looking fabulous for your next date night, special event, or work week.

While the ways we choose to invest may look different for everyone, the common thread is the hope of making a positive impact. This month’s issue explores various ways we can invest in our lives—whether by nurturing our community, planning for our financial future, or prioritizing the relationships that matter most. My top investment has always been family. My photo is my daughter, Ava who is my world along with my wife, Mandy.

Every investment we make is an act of hope and commitment. As you read this issue, we hope you’ll feel inspired to invest in the people, places, and dreams that matter most to you.

Here’s to a month full of growth, connection, and meaningful returns.

Happy April!

JON CALVIN, PUBLISHER

April 2026

PUBLISHER

Jon Calvin | jon.calvin@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Mandy Calvin | mandy.calvin@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Samantha Farris | samantha.farris@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Jay Grisham

INTERN

MaKayla Allen

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jennifer Brown-Thomas, Mandy Calvin, Samantha Farris

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Samantha Farris

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick Learn

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Southlake National Charity League wears red for American Heart Month 2: The Southlake Newcomers Club celebrated their annual pajama party with games, s’mores by the fire, plenty of laughter, friendly competition, and of course, the College Football National Championship. 3: Southlake National Charity League members created gift bags for the Southlake Senior Center. 4-7: Volunteers invest their time in the community at GRACE Grapevine, helping organize the Donation Station and storage space after the year-end donation rush.

business monthly

A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES

Jewish heritage in Texas cowboy culture recognized at Stock Show

Rozanne Rosenthal grew up immersed in Western life and later married into a Fort Worth family whose Jewish roots helped shape the city’s cowboy culture. As the Stockyards evolved, the Rosenthals remained  connected, reflecting a broader history of Jewish families — from ranchers to business leaders — who contributed to Texas’ Western identity. Fort Worth’s first Jewish Heritage Night honors that legacy and celebrates how Jewish values and cowboy ideals have long complemented one another.

Scan to read more

Keller-based Time to Shine Performing Arts wins top honors

Time to Shine Performing Arts in Keller earned top honors at the world’s largest student theater competition, with its senior team winning an Excellence in Dance award. The group’s standout performance highlighted the studio’s growing reputation for high-level training and achievement in youth performing arts.

Mansfield business brings mother-centric care to breastfeeding support

Tenise Hordge left an 18-year corporate career after her own breastfeeding experiences inspired her to become a lactation consultant and launch Mother’s Magical Milk in 2021. She now provides culturally competent, evidence-based breastfeeding support, serving over 1,000 families and advocating for better maternal care. As she expands into new lactation clinics, her focus remains on personalized care, addressing disparities affecting Black and brown mothers, and improving systems that often overlook women’s needs.

Designed for the Way You Live

A beautiful home begins with thoughtful design. At The Designery Southlake, we specialize in all things cabinetry, creating kitchens, baths, closets, and custom spaces that elevate everyday living.

From statement-making focal points to highly functional layouts, every project is crafted with intention, quality materials, and long-term durability in mind. What truly sets us apart is how we design. Each project includes professional 3D renderings and optional virtual reality walk-throughs, giving you the confidence to explore, refine, and finalize your space before anything is built.

We also offer countertops, flooring, and tile—making The Designery a true one-stop destination for remodels and new construction.

Designery Southlake southlake@thedesignery.com (817) 686-8704

S Nolen Dr Suite 200a, Southlake, TX 76092

Creative Elements

Thinking about making some changes in your home? Dreaming about a new kitchen or bathroom you saw on Pinterest or Houzz? Whether it is changing your current look for more modern, clean lines, updating the traditional to more transitional,or simply making your space more functional, Creative Elements is ready to make your next step a reality

| 817.793.6061 |

Spring INVEST IN FASHION!

Spring 2026 Brings

Bold Color, Playful Structure, and Confident Self - Expression

Spring 2026 arrives with a refreshing sense of optimism, and the fashion landscape reflects that energy with unapologetically bold color, inventive silhouettes, and a renewed focus on personal expression. This season leans into vibrancy and creativity, encouraging wearers to mix, layer, and experiment in ways that feel both modern and joyfully nostalgic.

A SEASON PAINTED IN COLOR

Designers are embracing a lively palette that instantly lifts the mood. Vibrant greens—especially wasabi and apple tones—are leading the charge, injecting a crisp, energetic punch into everything from dresses to accessories. Bright yellows and citrus hues follow closely behind, replacing winter’s muted tones with sunshine-inspired shades that feel tailor-made for spring.

Warm sunset colors also play a starring role. Think tangerine, soft orange, and glowing coral, all adding a sense of warmth and optimism to transitional wardrobes. Balancing these brights are electric blues and icy pastels, which offer a cooler, more refined counterpoint. Together, these palettes create a dynamic spectrum that invites endless styling possibilities.

SILHOUETTES THAT MAKE A STATEMENT

Spring 2026 silhouettes are all about presence. Statement skirts—whether boldly patterned, sharply tailored, or playfully pleated—anchor many of the season’s standout looks. These skirts pair effortlessly with the rise of high-volume shapes, from oversized sleeves to relaxed, wide-leg trousers that bring a sense of drama without sacrificing comfort.

Cropped outerwear continues its ascent, offering fresh proportions that complement high-rise bottoms and structured skirts. Short jackets and cropped shackets create clean, modern lines while keeping outfits light and spring-ready. Retro influences also surface through cropped and capri-length pants, adding a playful nod to early-2000s and mid-century silhouettes.

LAYERING, TEXTURE, AND UNEXPECTED DETAILS

This season embraces the idea that more is more. Layering becomes a creative playground, with tees, tanks, lightweight jackets, and even scarves stacked in inventive combinations. Textured knits—especially airy pointelle and open-stitch designs—add dimension without overwhelming warmth, making them ideal for fluctuating spring temperatures.

Accessories and finishing touches lean unconventional. Traditional belts take a back seat to “not-quite belts”: rope ties, soft scarves, and other waist details that add personality without rigidity.

RUNWAY MOTIFS WITH REAL‑WORLD APPEAL

Nature remains a powerful muse. Botanical prints, florals, and subtle animal motifs continue to resonate, grounding bold colors and modern shapes in organic inspiration. Low-slung and drop-waist silhouettes introduce a nostalgic twist, blending vintage charm with contemporary styling. And one of the season’s most striking trends is the pairing of bold primary colors with classic neutrals, creating high-impact combinations that feel both wearable and artistic.

In essence, Spring 2026 celebrates fearless color, expressive silhouettes, and the freedom to layer, mix, and play. It’s a season built on confidence, comfort, and individuality— inviting everyone to step into spring with creativity and joy.

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BUILT

ON GRIT

Before there were investor meetings in Southlake Town Square… before hundreds of millions in assets… before 750 investors entrusted their capital… There was a college rental house. A small loan from their dad. And two brothers willing to outwork the odds.

Lasater Capital didn’t begin in a boardroom. It began in the quiet determination of Tie and Boone Lasater, two brothers who believed that if they were going to build something, they would build it the right way. Slowly. Carefully. With their own money on the line.

In 2004, while still in college, Tie along with his father purchased his first rental property. Two roommates helped cover the cost of the mortgage. There were no outside investors. No institutional backing. No safety net. Just spreadsheets, late nights, renovation projects, and a relentless willingness to learn.

The early days weren’t glamorous. They were gritty.

For nearly a decade, the brothers flipped and operated properties using only their own capital. They renovated units themselves. Managed contractors. Balanced books. Negotiated with lenders. Handled construction setbacks and market fluctuations firsthand. If something broke, they fixed it. If a number didn’t work, they adjusted it.

There were no headlines celebrating them. No social media victories. Just blood, sweat, and discipline.

And that discipline became their edge.

When your own savings are at risk, you underwrite differently. You think in terms of margin of safety. You prepare for downturns before they arrive. You plan for the storm, instead of hoping it never rains. Those early years forged an investment philosophy rooted in protection first and growth second. That foundation still defines the company today.

Around 2014, something meaningful began to happen. Friends. Family. People from church. Neighbors from school events. They started asking how they could invest alongside them.

The track record was not theoretical. It was proven. More than a decade of operating experience. Dozens of completed projects. Assets that performed. The results spoke before any pitch deck ever did.

Today, more than 750 investors place their trust in the firm. And that word matters deeply to the Lasater brothers. Trust.

Because many of their investors are not faceless institutions, they’re people they see every week. Families who have built businesses of their own. Neighbors who know their children. Community members who have watched the journey unfold over twenty years.

That proximity raises the standard.

For the Lasaters, business and reputation are one and the same. That closeness requires clarity, steady communication, and consistency in every season. When markets tighten or headlines turn uneasy, they stay visible and engaged. From the very beginning, they make one thing clear: real estate is a long game, and trust is built over time.

For several years, the company operated under a different name after bringing in partners to help scale the platform. But over time, Tie and Boone made a defining decision. They chose to return to full ownership and independence. The rebrand to Lasater Capital was not cosmetic. It was conviction.

Putting their family name on the door is about accountability. It’s about roots. It’s about saying publicly that this isn’t something built to flip or package for a quick exit. It’s something generational.

When your last name is the brand, you build differently.

Today, Lasater Capital focuses on acquiring and operating income-producing real estate in growth markets where value is created through operational excellence rather than speculation. They are vertically integrated, meaning they understand every layer of the business. Underwriting. Construction. Asset management. Financing. Capital structuring.

They aren’t spreadsheet investors who learned the business from afar. They’ve renovated units themselves, negotiated directly with lenders, and managed through multiple market cycles. Experience was earned the hard way.

Their strategy centers on four pillars: buying at a discount, targeting strong growth markets, generating durable cash flow, and structuring investments with tax efficiency in mind. Each opportunity

“WHEN YOUR LAST NAME IS THE BRAND, YOU BUILD DIFFERENTLY.”

is approached with the same mindset they had when it was only their own savings at risk.

Southlake remains home, both personally and professionally. The recent move to an office in Southlake Town Square reflects more than growth. It reflects presence. The space allows them to host investor briefings, educational conversations, and strategy sessions in a setting that mirrors who they have become. Established. Grounded. Accessible.

Looking ahead, Tie Lasater speaks with the calm confidence of someone who has seen seasons come and go. Markets will fluctuate. Interest rates will rise and fall. Headlines will create noise.

Through it all, the commitment remains steady: disciplined investing. Transparent communication. Long-term thinking.

Lasater Capital is not built on hype. It’s built on two decades of resilience, relationships, and responsibility.

It’s built on grit.

And it’s sustained by grace.

When you put your name on the door, you don’t chase quick wins. You protect it. You honor it. You grow it carefully.

That’s the difference.

And that’s why Lasater Capital is not just a real estate firm. It’s a legacy in motion.

Redefining MVP: TIM TEBOW’S LIFE BEYOND FOOTBALL

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.

THE POWER OF ACCESS

BY BROKER ONLINE EXCHANGE

ARTICLE BY JENNIFER BROWN-THOMAS PHOTOGRAPHY

How Broker Online Exchange Is Quietly Reshaping the Energy Marketplace

In the world of energy procurement, volatility is not the exception. It’s the norm. Prices shift with weather systems, global supply dynamics, regulatory change, and market pressure. For many businesses, electricity and natural gas feel like uncontrollable expenses. Numbers rise and fall without clear explanation. Contracts are signed under pressure. Decisions are made without full visibility.

But what if energy could be approached differently? What if buying power, transparency, and strategy were not reserved for the largest corporations, but accessible to businesses of every size?

That belief is where Broker Online Exchange began.

Founded in 2013, Broker Online Exchange, known throughout the industry as BOX, was built on a simple but powerful conviction that access changes outcomes. From the beginning, the company set out to build something more dynamic than a traditional brokerage. Instead of simply sourcing rates, BOX created a technology-driven marketplace that allows energy brokers, consultants, and referral partners to access real-time pricing from suppliers across North America.

The distinction is subtle, yet transformative.

In traditional procurement, brokers often wait for quotes, compare static rate sheets, and operate within limited visibility.

Broker Online Exchange shifted that model by introducing real-time matrix pricing across multiple nationwide suppliers. Brokers can compare options instantly, evaluate contract structures side by side, and act decisively in a market where timing matters.

The result isn’t just speed. It’s informed decision-making.

Behind the platform stands a team of dedicated account managers with deep knowledge of the energy markets. They understand the nuance behind a number. They track how weather influences pricing. They analyze supply constraints and regional instability. They guide brokers through contract structures, renewal strategies, and risk considerations that extend far beyond a single rate. From quoting through contract execution and ongoing customer support, the partnership remains steady and continuous.

Over time, the company has evolved with intention. Between 2014 and 2019, Broker Online Exchange expanded into multiple states and strengthened its digital foundation with the launch of My Service Cloud. From 2020 through 2024, innovation accelerated. Tools such as Auto Renewal, the Pipeline Module, Utility Data BOX, and Reverse Auction functionality were introduced to increase transparency and encourage supplier competition. Each development was designed to give brokers greater leverage and clients greater clarity.

In 2025, Broker Online Exchange entered a new chapter when it was acquired by AppDirect, the world’s leading B2B commerce platform. Today, more than 1,000 providers, 14,000 advisors, and 16 million subscribers rely on the AppDirect ecosystem of subscription marketplaces to power innovation, growth, and long-term success. Through a provider catalog featuring more than 42,000 technology services across software, artificial intelligence, communications, cloud infrastructure, mobility, and hardware, brokers gained the opportunity to expand beyond energy procurement into a broader technology advisory role. Energy is no longer a standalone transaction. It becomes part of a comprehensive strategy designed to support modern business operations at scale.

What truly sets Broker Online Exchange apart is its philosophy around competition. Energy shopping is often reduced to a single objective: secure the lowest rate today. In reality, the lowest rate is not always the most strategic choice. A contract without flexibility can become restrictive. A long-term agreement may not align with a company’s risk tolerance or budgeting needs. Broker Online Exchange reframes the conversation by allowing multiple suppliers to compete within a centralized platform. Brokers and clients can compare pricing, contract structures, and purchasing strategies that align with long-term goals rather than shortterm impulses.

The power lies in choice and information.

This approach has delivered measurable results. For companies like FirstCash, a publicly traded organization with hundreds of locations across North America, energy procurement requires consistency and visibility across a broad footprint. Through the Broker Online Exchange platform, supplier competition increased transparency and improved procurement efficiency. Instead of reacting to market swings, the organization implemented structured buying strategies aligned with financial planning and operational objectives.

That is the difference between purchasing energy and managing it.

Today’s energy market continues to move unpredictably. Weather events disrupt supply. Global pressures influence pricing. Businesses of all sizes are paying closer attention to when and how they secure electricity and natural gas contracts. They are seeking flexibility, transparency, and stability.

Broker Online Exchange meets this moment by empowering smarter buying approaches. Businesses can split purchases over time, compare contract types that fit their risk profile, and use tools designed to manage energy costs throughout the life of a contract. The focus is not simply on closing a transaction. It is on building a strategy.

Perhaps the company’s most meaningful achievement is democratizing buying power. Historically, advanced procurement strategies were accessible primarily to large enterprises with significant resources. Broker Online Exchange changed that equation. Small and mid-sized businesses now gain access to the same market competition and visibility that large corporations have traditionally enjoyed. At the same time, enterprise organizations benefit from enhanced supplier competition that can drive meaningful savings across complex portfolios.

The mission remains clear. To power the energy marketplace through technology, delivering unbiased access, realtime pricing, and intelligent support to every participant in the ecosystem.

Looking ahead, Broker Online Exchange is focused on expanding beyond procurement into full energy management partnership. The vision includes enhanced tools that allow businesses to track spending, manage bills and contracts, plan renewals, and make data-driven purchasing decisions with confidence.

In a marketplace defined by uncertainty, structure becomes powerful. Information becomes leverage. Access becomes advantage.

Broker Online Exchange was built on that understanding. And in an industry where so much feels outside a business owner’s control, they are quietly giving it back.

“Today’s energy market continues to move unpredictably. Weather events disrupt supply. Global pressures influence pricing. Businesses of all sizes are paying closer attention to when and how they secure electricity and natural gas contracts. They are seeking flexibility, transparency, and stability.

Broker Online Exchange meets this moment by empowering smarter buying approaches.”

Raising Money-Smart Kids

TEACHING FINANCIAL LITERACY AT EVERY AGE

ARTICLE BY ANGI BURNS PHOTOGRAPHY BY TY HARPER PHOTOGRAPHY

In a world of one-click purchases, digital wallets, and instant gratification, teaching children the value of money is more important than ever. Financial literacy is not just about dollars and cents. It is about responsibility, discipline, confidence, and long-term security. When we start early and build intentionally, we give the next generation one of the greatest gifts possible: financial independence and opportunity.

Financial stress is one of the leading causes of anxiety in adulthood. When we teach children how to earn, save, invest, and spend wisely, we give them more than knowledge. We give them confidence and freedom.

Here is how to teach money skills at every stage, from preschool to young adulthood.

EARLY CHILDHOOD (AGES 3–7): BUILD THE FOUNDATION

Young children learn best through play, visuals, and repetition. At this stage, focus on helping them understand that money is earned and choices matter.

• Use clear jars labeled Save, Spend, and Give so they can see money grow.

• Divide birthday money or small allowances into the jars together.

• Read age-appropriate books about earning and saving.

• Play simple money-themed games like Monopoly Junior.

• Offer paid “extra jobs” beyond regular chores to connect effort with income.

Lesson:  When children see that money is earned and managed, they begin building healthy financial habits early.

ELEMENTARY YEARS (AGES

8–12):

TEACH PLANNING AND PATIENCE

As children mature, they are ready to set goals and practice delayed gratification.

• Tie allowance to a simple budget that includes saving and spending.

• Help them save for a specific goal instead of buying items for them.

• Encourage small business ventures like lemonade stands, lawn care, craft sales, pet sitting, or Girl Scout cookie sales.

• Review earnings together and discuss profit, spending, and saving.

• Open a savings account to introduce the concept of earning interest.

Lesson: Learning to plan, save, and earn builds patience, confidence, and decision-making skills.

TEENAGE YEARS (AGES 13–18): PRACTICE REAL WORLD RESPONSIBILITY

The teen years are when financial habits begin to solidify and independence increases.

• Encourage a part-time job to teach time management and responsibility.

• Review pay stubs together and explain taxes and deductions.

• Create a simple monthly budget that includes saving a percentage of income.

• Introduce compound interest and basic investing concepts.

• Discuss college costs, scholarships, savings plans, and student loan realities.

Lesson: Financial choices made during the teen years can shape long-term freedom and opportunity.

YOUNG ADULTS (AGES

18–25):

BUILD INDEPENDENCE AND STRATEGY

As young adults enter college or the workforce, financial decisions carry real consequences.

• Teach responsible credit card use and the importance of paying balances in full.

• Explain credit scores and how they impact renting, car loans, and future borrowing.

• Encourage building an emergency fund with several months of expenses.

• Promote living within their means and avoiding lifestyle inflation.

• Start retirement savings early through employer plans or individual accounts.

Lesson: Intentional financial planning in early adulthood creates long-term stability and wealth-building potential.

By modeling healthy financial habits, encouraging entrepreneurial thinking, and creating opportunities to practice money management at every age, we set the next generation up not just to survive financially, but to thrive.

“When we start early and build intentionally, we give the next generation one of the greatest gifts possible: financial independence and opportunity.”

ST. THOMAS AND WATER ISLAND

FAMILY ADVENTURES AND BREATHTAKING VIEWS IN THE US VIRGIN

ISLANDS

In a world that constantly measures return on investment in dollars and percentages, the greatest dividends often come from something far less tangible: time together. Investing in family through travel builds a portfolio of shared memories that only grows more valuable with the years. Few destinations offer a richer return than St. Thomas in the United States Virgin Islands, paired with the quiet charm of nearby Water Island.

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY

BY SAMANTHA FARRIS

St. Thomas is a vibrant blend of Caribbean color, history, and culture. In Charlotte Amalie, pastel buildings and Danish colonial architecture reflect the island’s heritage, while local markets bustle with handmade crafts,

tropical fruits, and spices. Steel drum music drifts from open-air cafes, while lively festivals celebrate the island’s African, European, and Caribbean roots through dance, music, and storytelling. From tasting conch fritters and freshcaught mahi-mahi to visiting art galleries featuring local painters and sculptors, culture comes alive at every turn. Beyond the town, the landscape unfolds into breathtaking views—lush green hills rolling into turquoise water dotted with sailboats and luxury yachts, creating a picture-perfect bay that invites quiet reflection or family photos.

Beach hopping becomes an adventure in itself and a perfect way to connect as a family. Spend a morning at Magens Bay, often ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the world, where calm waters are ideal for swimming. Head to Sapphire Beach for brilliant blue water and vibrant marine life just offshore. Coki Beach offers excellent snorkeling, while Secret Harbour provides a quieter setting for paddleboarding and sunset views. Each shoreline offers a slightly different personality, inviting families to explore together and discover a favorite.

Nature is one of the island’s greatest teachers. Children and adults alike can spot iguanas sunning on rocks, pelicans diving for fish, and colorful tropical fish weaving through coral reefs. Snorkeling excursions reveal an underwater world of sea fans, coral formations, schools of blue tang and sergeant majors, and even graceful sea turtles gliding through the crystal-clear water. For families seeking adventure, deep sea fishing charters and sailing trips create unforgettable bonding moments on open water. For the truly adventurous, you can free dive for lobster and then cook up the day’s catch for a fresh, memorable island meal. Hiking trails wind through tropical vegetation filled with palms,

bougainvillea, and fragrant frangipani, rewarding explorers with panoramic views.

Just a short ferry ride away, Water Island feels like a hidden treasure. With fewer crowds and a slower pace, it offers space to truly unplug. Honeymoon Beach welcomes visitors with soft sand, gentle waves, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for building sandcastles or sharing a seaside lunch. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling here feel personal and unhurried, allowing families to savor each moment. As you explore the island, it’s not uncommon to see gentle sea turtles swimming along the shoreline, adding a touch of magic to every stroll and reminding visitors of the island’s vibrant, thriving wildlife.

Traveling to St. Thomas and Water Island is more than a vacation. It is an intentional decision to invest in shared experiences—watching the sun dip below the horizon, laughing over fresh seafood, or discovering sea life side by side. Long after souvenirs are tucked away, those memories remain. The true return is found in stronger relationships, deeper conversations, and the joy of having explored something beautiful together, creating a treasure trove of stories that will be cherished for generations.

ARTICLE BY SOPHIE BROCK

FOUR SIMPLE WAYS TO INVEST IN YOUR MORNING AND START YOUR DAY OFF ON THE RIGHT FOOT

habits for morning success

One of the best ways to invest in yourself is by creating a consistent and intentional morning routine. No matter how unpredictable or chaotic the rest of your day may become, starting your morning with self-care and purpose sets a positive tone that stays with you throughout the day.  Once you develop a morning routine that truly resonates with you, you’ll look forward to it every night, knowing it will set the foundation for a productive and fulfilling day.

If you’re ready to elevate your mornings, here are some meaningful ways to invest in your routine and start each day on the right foot.

Be Your Own Barista:

One of life’s simplest pleasures is savoring a homemade coffee each morning. While skipping the drive-thru may be tough at first, brewing your own allows you to appreciate the process—and chances are, you’ll end up preferring your own perfect cup of joe.

Get Your Steps In:

An hour-long gym session before work may not be realistic, but a quick morning walk is. Use this time to clear your mind, enjoy nature, and listen to your favorite podcast or artist—an easy way to start your day feeling relaxed.

Enjoy Some Breakfast:

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, yet often the most overlooked. Setting your alarm just minutes earlier to prepare a fresh, nutritious meal can transform your morning, fueling your body and mind for a more energized and productive day.

Read A Book:

Starting your day with a book is far more calming than scrolling through social media. Reading in the morning helps ease you into the day, providing a peaceful and mindful escape that sets a positive, focused tone for what’s ahead.

Plant You r Kitchen Garden

BACKYARD GARDENS OFFER FRESH VEGGIES AND FOOD FOR YOUR SOUL

A quick guide for simple ideas to start off your backyard kitchen garden. With endless health and medicinal benefits, combined with the beauty and enjoyment to be found, gardening is endlessly rewarding.

GETTING STARTED

• Plant your vegetable options right into your beds with flowers, the pollinators (bees, butterflies and more) are attracted to the beautiful flowers and your veggies will easily and abundantly go-tofruit, living harmoniously in one bed.

• Every garden needs a rain gauge - you’ll be surprised at how fun it is to check. There is nothing like rain water for your garden. (This is optional, but definitely fun).

• Get your family involved. It’s never too late!

• Just go for it, our local climate can be weird and often extreme but don’t let it stop you- the most success and fun I’ve had was just going for it. Experiment and see what you love and what works best for you!

• In most cases, when watering, don’t water the petals and leaves, (especially when they’re in direct sunlight) try to water straight to the soil. All they need is water, nutrients and light to thrive! (and maybe a little love helps too!)

• Don’t forget herbs: Lavender, Mint, Lemon Verbena, Oregano, Basil, Cilantro, Parsley and more. Don’t be afraid to skip the spice rack and grab your seasoning from the garden.

What to Plant

Whether starting from seed or seedlings, you can’t go wrong with these options. Start with foods you know you like to eat.

TOMATOES: They’re delicious, money-saving, good for eating fresh and for preserving. Tomatoes come in endless colors, shapes and sizes. Plant them in a sunny location with well-drained soil, ideally in full sun, and ensure they receive consistent moisture, supporting them with cages or stakes as they grow.

OKRA: Okra loves our hot summers and full sun. Don’t wait too long to pick your okra, ideally harvesting them when they are 2 to 4 inches long. Can be eaten raw on a salad or best served deep fried. (The flower that turns into the okra itself is uniquely beautiful as well!)

EGGPLANT: Eggplant is a short season vegetable and a relative of peppers, potatoes, tomatoes and tobacco. It thrives in heat and full sun and can be deliciously made into baba ganoush and many other delicious dishes.

ARTICLE BY LAURA SANCHEZQUAN

PEPPERS: Like tomatoes, peppers have many purposes and variations. Plant them in a sunny location with welldrained soil after the last frost, spacing them 18 inches apart, and provide consistent watering while ensuring the soil doesn't become waterlogged.

Flowers Bring Pollinators

Flowers bring joy to all five of our senses, but they also bring pollinators to our garden in order to ensure your backyard kitchen will produce lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. Not to mention they also contain health and even medicinal properties.

HIBISCUS:

Make sure your hibiscus plants, whether tropical or hardy, get at least 6 hours of sun per day in order to achieve optimum blooming. Hibiscus flowers can be made into a delicious tea that can be served hot or ice cold (and is a good source of Vitamin C). With over 200 varieties of hibiscus world wide, their blooms only last a day or two! Stunning in all shapes, sizes and colors.

MARIGOLDS:

To the surprise of most people, marigold flowers are edible. Whether used fresh, dried, or infused into various beverages, Marigolds have a multitude of uses in the kitchen. An added benefit of planting these bright and low maintenance flowers next to tomatoes– they help keep pests away from devouring your tomatoes while also encouraging pollinators.

ZINNIAS: PLUMBAGO:

These bright, colorful garden gems have many benefits beyond their beauty and ease of care. Along with attracting pollinators, and being low maintenance they also have medicinal properties. Zinnias have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, they’re rich in antioxidants, and the natural compounds in zinnias can help calm irritated skin and reduce redness.

Plumbago is thought to have many health benefits, such as its anti-ulcer, anti-oxidant, and anti-cancer properties, resulting from its principal chemical components, which are concentrated in the roots, leaves, and stems of plants. This attractive light purple flowering plant thrives in the sun, and has moderate watering needs. Trim and prune to suit your own preferences of growth and it’s a welcome, abundantly beautiful member of any garden.

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events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

APRIL 10TH

Lunch with the Girlz: Where Fashion Meets Philanthropy

Hurst Conference Center | 9:30 AM

Celebrate style and sisterhood with Colleyville Women’s Club at this high-energy luncheon featuring professional runway models in chic ready-to-wear looks from DFW boutiques, an adorable children’s segment, boutique shopping, raffles, live auction, and entertainment by DJ Graffiti. Proceeds benefit scholarships and local charities across the metroplex. More information is available at colleyville-womans-club. myshopify.com/collections/all

APRIL 16TH - 19TH

Fort Worth Main Street Arts Festival

Downtown Fort Worth | 10:00 AM

Stroll through 18 lively blocks filled with hundreds of juried artists showcasing everything from paintings and sculpture to jewelry, glass, photography, and handcrafted goods. Enjoy diverse food vendors serving festival favorites and local flavors, plus live music and interactive fun for all ages. This free downtown celebration is packed with creativity. More information is available at mainstreetartsfest.org.

APRIL 18TH

Bubble RUN | DFW 2026

Texas Motor Speedway

A colorful, family-friendly 5 K course at Texas Motor Speedway invites participants to walk, run, dance and play through multiple foam-filled bubbles and “bogs” that cover everyone from kids to adults in vibrant suds. Non-competitive and untimed, the fun includes music, post-run parties and whimsical vibes for all ages. To sign up or for more information: bubblerun.com/locations/dallas-fort-worth

APRIL 24TH - 26TH

Southlake Art in

the Square

Southlake Town Square | 10:00 AM

A vibrant outdoor fine art festival transforms Southlake Town Square with over 150 juried artists showcasing diverse works, live entertainment on two stages, delicious food and drink options, and engaging family activities including a Kid’s Korner and fun zone for kids and teens. All proceeds benefit local charities.  Featuring Justin Mason Band February 25th at 8:00PM. More info: artinthesquare.com

APRIL 25TH

2026 FuelFest Dallas-Fort Worth

Texas Motor Speedway

Experience a thrilling automotive celebration at FuelFest DFW — a high-energy festival at Texas Motor Speedway featuring a massive car show with all makes and models, themed JDM “Taste of Tokyo,” live music, pro drifting with fan ride-alongs, VIP zones, special guest appearances, and more. A portion of proceeds benefits Reach Out WorldWide. Information and tickets available at fuelfest.com

APRIL 30TH

The Designery Southlake Grand Opening

525 S. Nolen Drive, Suite 200A, Southlake, TX 76092 | 12:00 PM

Celebrate the grand opening of  The Designery Southlake, a new locally owned cabinet design studio specializing in kitchens, baths, closets, and custom spaces. Enjoy light bites, drinks, and a first look at their design approach, including 3D renderings and virtual reality walk-throughs. Learn more at TheDesignery.com or call (817) 686-8704.