THE CHRISTMAS GLOW: HOW LIGHTS BRING NOSTALGIA HOME IN THE WOODLANDS
LIFE + CULTURE
JOY TO THE WORLD! THE REASON FOR THE SEASON
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Letter from the Editor
On a cold field amid one of human history’s bleakest chapters, two encampments stood opposed when they began to hear, across enemy lines, a puzzling, otherworldly sound: singing.
No doubt wearied from fighting and hunger and despair, these troops took up the chorus of a familiar carol as if it were a buoy amid a vast, grey sea. That act ushered in a momentary ceasefire as British and German soldiers gathered together in No Man’s Land to share a meal, sing, and even rough about in a friendly game of football on Christmas, 1914.
Different languages, countries, and ideologies did not bar them from collectively recalling the warm memories of the season—the holiday that, since childhood, had brought to them year after year tidings of comfort and joy —the arrival of which not even a world war could prevent.
This Christmas story from the Western Front is one of my favorites, and it reflects the theme of our December issue, our final publication before the start of a new year: Holidays & Giving. As our closing issue of 2025, it’s a privilege to offer stories that evoke the spirit of the season and, as always, provide yet more reasons to be grateful for this wooded gathering place we call home.
The first half of our issue eases you into the excitement and anticipation of the month ahead: a last-minute luxury gift guide featuring local Woodlands artists, decadent holiday wine pairings for your upcoming winter fête, and a showcase of three local productions of The Nutcracker.
The latter half of the publication delves deeper, with a profile on local first responder Constable Ryan Gable, who serves our community throughout the holidays, an impactful interview with a Woodlands pastor about the true meaning of the season, and a travel feature beckoning you to embark on an Irish adventure.
Our cover story is a twinkling portrait of Christmas lights—their history and modern trends—in which the author captures how “lakeside homes in East Shore reflect golden light across the water,” giving us a reason to feature Vincent van Gogh’s Starry Night Over the Rhône on our cover. If you squint, it may just resemble East Shore after all.
From all of us at The Woodlands City Lifestyle, we hope you find peace, joy, and hope this December as you venture through the pages ahead.
Until next year,
ALEX GRAY, MANAGING EDITOR
December 2025
PUBLISHER
Tonya Butler | tonya.butler@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Alison Bridges | alison.bridges@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Alex Gray | alex.gray@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Dawn Allen
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Arielle Alston | arielle.alston@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
The Woodlands City Lifestyle woodlands@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Joel Gray, Dawn Allen, Travis Hager, Heather Davis, Kelly Twedell, Aunika Anderson
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
inside the issue
city scene
WHERE
NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: TWHS Art Trust 2025 Nominated Work: Whispers in a Dreamscape by Robyn Feehan. 2: TWHS Art Trust 2025 Nominated Work: The Storyteller by Laura Spector. 3: TWHS Art Trust 2025 Nominated Work: Late Afternoon Riva Row Boat House by Tom LaRock. 4: TWHS Art Trust 2025 Nominated Work: Longhorn by Mohammad Ali Bhatti. 5: TWHS Art Trust 2025 Nominated Work: Fair-Ever Young by by Erik Faught. 6: TWHS Art Trust 2025 Nominated Work: Alice is Bored by Jennifer Polnaszek. 7: TWHS Art Trust 2025 Nominated Work: You Bring the Sun by Annette Palmer.
Photography Provided by TWHS Art Trust
Excellence in Dentistry
Dr. Leah has taken over 140 hours of continuing education with the world-renowned Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies (LVI) and is working on her Fellowship distinction. Dr. Leah Zils is set to take over Dr. Cagle’s dental practice, dedicated to preserving and advancing the legacy of exceptional dental care established by her predecessor. Dr. Zils attended the University of Arkansas on a soccer scholarship before finishing her Bachelor’s Degree in Biology at Texas A&M University, graduating Summa Cum Laude. She then graduated from UT School of Dentistry in Houston and hit the ground running with her dental career.
She has taken over 140 hours of continuing education with the world-renowned Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies (LVI) and is working on her Fellowship distinction. She is certified in laser dentistry as well as oral sedation. She is a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. Dr. Zils looks forward to welcoming new clients into the practice, where she can apply her extensive education and experience to provide top-notch dental care.
Welcoming New Patients.
21st Annual Signatures Author Series to be Held December 5th
The John Cooper School will hold their 21st Annual Signatures Author Series Luncheon, featuring New York Times bestselling author Fiona Davis, December 5th at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott. A group of visiting authors, selected by the event executive committee, will also be on hand at the event. The visiting authors will be selling and autographing books prior to the luncheon offering attendees a unique opportunity to hear directly from the authors.
Photography by Deborah Feingold
Montrose-Area Favorite "Cooking Girl" Opening in The Woodlands in 2026
Houston's Montrose neighborhood favorite, Cooking Girl, is bringing its bold flavors to The Woodlands with a new location planned in the Grogan’s Mill Village Center. Guests will enjoy the Sichuan restaurant's signature favorites like dry-fried green beans, spicy yu xiang eggplant, dan dan noodles, Sichuan beef, orange chicken, Mongolian beef, and more. The address for the new location is 7 Switchbud Place #194 in The Woodlands. The opening is planned for Spring 2026.
Photography by Stock Photo
TWMC Women's Ministry Dessert and Worship Event on December 4th
Celebrate the arrival of the Christmas season on Thursday, December 4th, at an evening designed to uplift and inspire. The Woodlands United Methodist Church Women’s Ministry invites you to a night filled with decadent desserts, powerful worship and an inspiring message from author, speaker and Bible study teacher Lysa TerKeurst. Desserts will be served at 6 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. at The Woodlands campus of TWMC. thewoodlandsmethodist. org/dessertandworship
Photography by Stock Photo
ARTICLE BY HEATHER DAVIS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Last-Minute Luxe
QUICK, POLISHED PICKS FOR ELEVENTH-HOUR GIFTS
Platte River Dance II by Leslee McFerren
Local artist Leslee McFerren from Ribbons ’N Things provides a stunning, sophisticated piece of delicate yet rich textile, “Platte River Dance II,” which features a Sandhill Crane portrayed through hand-dyed silk ribbons and floss.
The Royal Extract Queen Bee Crown Candle from Lady Primrose
The Royal Extract Queen Bee Crown Candle from Lady Primrose ensnares the senses with a hand-poured, golden honey fragrance. The candle’s glass crown vessel can be refilled or repurposed as a classic, keepsake jewelry holder.
“Bouquet” by Eric DePan
Eric DePan‘s blown glass “Bouquet” can add a touch of character and elegance to any space. Using an intricate murrini style with a fully fused encalmo section, DePan’s seamless designs come in various colors.
Olmox Fine Filigree Jewelry’s Emeline Filigree Hoop Earrings
For the classic jewelry-lover, Liliana Olmos from Olmox Fine Filigree Jewelry created the Emeline Filigree Hoops Earrings out of her love for “simple clean design.” Available in 18k gold and sterling silver in two sizes.
The Gerstner 1805 Retro Chest
For the gentlemen in the family, the Gerstner 1805 Retro Chest doubles as a practical storage chest and a statement-making home decor item. Store tools, watches, or sentimental memorabilia in the solid hardwood, felt-lined drawers.
COME CELEBRATE THE JOY OF CHRISTMAS
Christmas is a season filled with joy, a time to share love with those closest to us. We exchange gifts and acts of kindness, honoring the greatest gift ever given: a baby named Jesus, the Savior of the world.
At His birth, He was called Emmanuel, meaning “God with us,” the gift and promise of His constant presence in our lives and the assurance that we are not alone.
This Christmas, we invite you to join us at The Woodlands Methodist Church as we celebrate the joy of the season. Together, let’s create cherished memories with family and friends as we honor our risen King — Christ Jesus, Emmanuel!
We offer a variety of services designed to meet you where you are this Christmas season.
• Family Christmas service
• Special needs family worship
• Traditional candlelight worship
• Casual/contemporary candlelight worship
• A special service for those who are grieving
Services are in person and online.
Scan the QR code for a full schedule of services and events on our four campuses.
The Woodlands | Woodforest | Montgomery | Creekside thewoodlandsmethodist.org
Holiday Haven Interiors
Two Generations, One Design Ethos
In The Woodlands, where architectural refinement meets the natural beauty of East Texas pines, a new design firm is quietly shaping what it means to feel at home. Holiday Haven Interiors, founded by mother-daughter team Amy Jackson and Rachel Somma, brings a deeply personal approach to interiors, one that blends heritage, artistry, and an intuitive sense of comfort. Their partnership seems effortless, built on years of shared creativity long before the business took form.
With Somma’s degree in interior design and Jackson’s background in general contracting, the two have collaborated for years on everything from family homes to special events.
“Looking back, there’s always been an unspoken partnership between us,” Jackson says. “There were times I’d send her a blueprint and ask her to design a room from fixtures to furnishings. It evolved naturally.”
When both women relocated to The Woodlands, they saw an opportunity to turn their longstanding creative bond into something lasting.
“The timing felt right,” Jackson says. “We wanted to create a company that reflects both our perspectives—the structure and the soul of design.”
That duality is at the heart of Holiday Haven Interiors.
ARTICLE BY TRAVIS HAGER
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
STORYTELLING THROUGH DESIGN
Jackson describes her process as rooted in context.
“I don’t follow a specific style,” she says. “Each project has its own environment, its own story. I take cues from the landscape and use natural elements like stone, pottery, and concrete to define a space.”
Favoring oversized lighting, statement art, and pieces that act as visual anchors, Jackson believes that “every room should have one element that tells the story of the home.”
Somma’s sensibility brings balance.
“She’s the editor,” Jackson says with a smile. “I can get carried away wanting to add more, and she knows exactly where to stop. Our differences always end up serving the design.”
What distinguishes Holiday Haven Interiors is not just their aesthetic but their intent. They design homes that feel lived in—layered, meaningful, and quietly luxurious. That ethos is evident in their projects across The Woodlands, where nature often plays a guiding role.
“Life here moves quickly,” Jackson says. “We want to create spaces that offer calm—where materials, textures, and light invite you to slow down.”
BEYOND THE HOLIDAYS
Although the name Holiday Haven Interiors hints at their love of seasonal design, the firm’s vision extends well beyond the holidays. For Jackson, those origins are more symbolic than seasonal.
“The holidays were always when our family came together—decorating, entertaining, creating beauty in our surroundings,” she explains. “That spirit of connection and tradition became the foundation for how we approach every project.”
Today, their work blends timeless design principles with personal storytelling. Heirloom furniture sits comfortably beside modern fixtures.
Natural stone contrasts with polished brass. Spaces feel curated but never contrived, an aesthetic that feels perfectly at home in our community.
“A home should evoke a sense of comfort and belonging,” Jackson says. “It’s where we build our lives. Our job is to help clients express that through their space.”
AT HOME IN THE WOODLANDS
As for the future, Jackson and Somma envision continued growth within the community they’ve come to love.
“The Woodlands has a strong sense of identity,” Jackson says. “People here value family, craftsmanship, and home. That aligns with everything we believe in as designers.”
In a field often defined by trends, Holiday Haven Interiors stands apart for its grounding in authenticity—two generations united by a shared eye for beauty and a reverence for what home truly means.
Though the design firm loves seasonal design, their vision expands well beyond it.
Amy Jackson and Rachel Somma of Holiday Haven Interiors.
YULETIDE WINE PAIRINGS
ARTICLE BY TRAVIS HAGER
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
A TOAST TO THE SEASON OF GIVING
The holidays are a season of generosity. A time of gathering, sharing, and giving without measure. From the first pour to the final toast, every sip tells that story of connection. And here, four thoughtful pairings remind us that generosity begins not in grand gestures, but in the simple act of raising a glass together—that being, perhaps, the finest pairing of all.
CHARDONNAY & BRIE EN CROÛTE
SPARKLING ROSÉ & SMOKED SALMON CANAPÉS
Light, lively, and delightfully expressive
A delicate rosé, lively with strawberry notes, complements the silken richness of smoked salmon. Together, they sparkle like laughter shared before dinner—the kind that reminds us why we gather. The effervescence lifts the palate, the spirit, and the moment, inviting guests to linger longer, toast often, and give freely of the most precious gift: time.
An elegant embrace of comfort and gratitude
Golden Chardonnay with notes of pear and vanilla meets warm Brie wrapped in pastry— an embrace of comfort and elegance. As butter and oak intertwine, the pairing becomes a quiet celebration of generosity itself: rich, layered, and sincere. It’s the flavor of gratitude at the table, where giving takes the form of warmth and shared delight.
TAWNY PORT & SPICED NUTS
The quiet luxury of reflection and warmth
A mature Tawny Port, with its hints of fig and toasted walnut, finds harmony beside a bowl of cinnamon-kissed pecans. The pairing evokes fireside evenings and quiet gratitude. It’s the finale of the gathering—the moment when conversation softens, hearts open, and we remember that giving isn’t bound to a season; rather, it’s a symbol of grace. 01
PINOT NOIR & BACON-WRAPPED DATES
A study in nostalgia and sophistication
The soft cherry of Pinot Noir dances with the caramelized sweetness of bacon-wrapped dates, creating a pairing both nostalgic and sophisticated. Each bite feels like a story— sweet beginnings wrapped in depth and memory. It’s the perfect companion to the season of giving, where simple gestures, thoughtfully made, carry the richest meaning of all.
02 03 04
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Three Stages, One Classic
THIS HOLIDAY SEASON, THREE LOCAL BALLET COMPANIES REIMAGINE THE NUTCRACKER IN THEIR OWN UNIQUE STYLES
ARTICLE BY DAWN ALLEN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Clara's Christmas dreams come true in Boni's The Nutcracker.
Performers at Boni’s Victorian Nutcracker Tea Party. Photo: Limitless Lens
Boni’s Clara and Drosselmeyer.
BONI’S DANCE & PERFORMING ARTS STUDIO: WHERE SUGAR PLUM DREAMS COME TRUE
Each holiday season, Boni’s Dance & Performing Arts Studio transforms into a scene straight from The Nutcracker. This year, Boni’s will again host its annual Nutcracker Camp on December 20 at its main studio where children ages four to eight are invited to don their holiday PJs and participate in Nutcracker dances, cookie decorating, tiaras, tutus, and more. Youngsters will enjoy brunch and photos with the Sugar Plum Fairy while parents tackle last-minute Christmas shopping!
Earlier in the season, Boni’s and The Woodlands Dance Company hosted their 24th annual Victorian Nutcracker Tea Party at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott, delighting attendees with live performances, photo ops with principal characters, and, of course, a chocolate fountain.
The celebrations culminated in the dance company’s fulllength production of The Nutcracker at The Woodlands College Park High School, where guests were enchanted by the luminous magic of the holiday ballet spectacular.
VITACCA SCHOOL FOR DANCE: A SWEET VIP EXPERIENCE
The Woodlands Vitacca School for Dance invites audiences to step into Clara’s magical world on December 19 and 20 at Tomball High School with its dazzling production of The Nutcracker, delighting children and adults alike. Bring family and friends along as Clara journeys from her Victorian-era home into the Land of Snow and Kingdom of Sweets. Vitacca’s The Nutcracker offers a unique, family-friendly experience with audience seating at dedicated tables.
This season, the performance adds extra sparkle with the Sugar Plum Fairy On Stage VIP Experience for select 1 p.m. shows, including a boutique gift bag and a chance to take the stage for a photo with the Sugar Plum Fairy herself—a keepsake as magical as the ballet’s Kingdom of Sweets.
HOUSTON BALLET’S BELOVED NUTCRACKER RETURNS TO THE WORTHAM
Houston Ballet kicks off its cherished tradition with Stanton Welch AM’s The Nutcracker, running November 28–December 28
Boni's own Ceylin delights as Snow Queen.
at the Wortham Theater Center. The production features 61 professional dancers, 340 student performers, and a live orchestra of over 100 musicians in 38 performances.
More than 70,000 Houstonians will experience Welch’s whimsical reimagining of the classic, with dancers performing multiple roles throughout the run. Among them, Emma Forrester, Neal Burks, and Jack Wolff dazzle audiences with 12–18 roles each, from Clara and Drosselmeyer to Snowflakes and Lead Flowers.
This season also debuted a sensory-friendly performance of The Nutcracker at the Wortham on November 28 at 1 p.m., alongside student matinees serving over 80 area schools.
A SEASON OF MAGIC
Whether meeting the Sugar Plum Fairy or watching The Nutcracker sparkle onstage, these three local ballet companies are sure to bring that long-awaited holiday magic to life.
Captions on opposite page, starting from the top left and going left to right: Vitacca Ballet & School for Dance Artists. Photo: Lynn Lane | Vitacca Ballet & School for Dance Artists. Photo: Lynn Lane. | Vitacca Ballet & School for Dance Artists. Photo: Lynn Lane. | Vitacca Ballet & School for Dance Artist. Photo: Ashkan Image. | Houston Ballet Demi Soloist Kellen Hornbuckle as Clara in Stanton Welch’s The Nutcracker. Photo by Amitava Sarkar (2024). Courtesy of Houston Ballet. | Artists of Houston Ballet and Students of Houston Ballet Academy in Stanton Welch’s The Nutcracker. Photo by Amitava Sarkar (2024). Courtesy of Houston Ballet. | Houston Ballet Demi Soloist Kellen Hornbuckle as Clara, Artists of Houston Ballet and Students of Houston Ballet Academy in Stanton Welch’s The Nutcracker.
Photo by Amitava Sarkar (2024). Courtesy of Houston Ballet. | This page, top: Houston Ballet Soloist Jacquelyn Long with Artists of Houston Ballet and Students of Houston Ballet Academy in Stanton Welch’s The Nutcracker. Photo by Amitava | Bottom: Houston Ballet Soloists Alyssa Springer and Aaron Daniel Sharratt with Artists of Houston Ballet in Stanton Welch’s The Nutcracker. Photo by Amitava Sarkar (2024). Courtesy of Houston Ballet. | Circle: Vitacca Ballet & School for Dance Artists. Photo: Lynn Lane.
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THE CHRISTMAS GLOW
How Lights Bring Nostalgia Home in The Woodlands
ARTICLE BY TRAVIS HAGER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRAVIS HAGER & PROVIDED
Long before rooftops shimmered across The Woodlands, the story of Christmas lights began in the solemn glow of candlelit evergreens. In 17th-century Germany, families placed small flames on tree branches to honor the light of Christ. It was a simple, yet perilous gesture that turned
Vincent van Gogh - Starry Night Over the Rhone, 1888.
“Long before rooftops shimmered across The Woodlands, the story of Christmas lights began in the solemn glow of candlelit evergreens.”
winter darkness into something sacred. Centuries later, Thomas Edison strung the first electric bulbs outside his Menlo Park laboratory, and his colleague Edward H. Johnson (known as the father of Christmas Lights) illuminated a tree in New York with eighty glowing orbs of red, white, and blue. That moment sparked a tradition that would one day shine from every porch, window, and treetop.
Over time, light became more than just a symbol of the season, it became an emotion. It reminds us of warmth, of wonder, of coming home. And even now, as modern LEDs replace old glass bulbs, the meaning remains unchanged: each tiny spark carries a whisper of Christmas past, casting its familiar glow on the memories we continue to make.
THE GLOW THAT GUIDES US HOME
Every December, The Woodlands seems to take on a quiet kind of magic. Streets shimmer in the soft glow
of white bulbs, lakeside homes in East Shore reflect golden light across the water, and familiar melodies drift through the cool evening air. It’s a time that reminds us of childhood—when lights weren’t just decoration, they were a feeling. That first spark of wonder still lives in every twinkle and warm hue that returns each holiday season.
Homeowners in 2025 are leaning into that nostalgia, drawing inspiration from old-world traditions while blending them with today’s smart technology. The result is a look that feels timeless yet effortless. A vintage charm wrapped in a soft, modern glow.
THE RETURN OF “FESTIVE NOSTALGIA”
You can see it in the windows of Grogan’s Mill and the porches of Carlton Woods. Strands of glass bulbs in red, green, and gold that once lined our grandparents’ roofs are back. The style is deliberate, not dated. People are recreating the spirit of the 1950s and 60s,
when decorating the house meant the whole family bundled up to hang lights and sip cocoa afterward.
The key is restraint. Choose vintage-inspired pieces that complement. A single strand of oversized bulbs outlining a gable or a wreath adorned with velvet ribbon and brass bells can evoke decades of tradition in one glance.
Lighting, after all, is the soul of this season. It recalls the moments when the world seemed to stand still on Christmas Eve—the hush before morning, the glow under the tree, the feeling that something wonderful was about to happen.
MODERN TECH, TIMELESS WARMTH
While nostalgia guides the spirit, technology is quietly reshaping the experience. Homeowners are no longer limited to static strands of lights or outdoor timers that only half-cooperate. Today’s systems can be controlled by voice or app, with programmable colors, dimming effects, and custom patterns.
The most elegant displays use technology to create ambiance. One lakeside home, for instance, syncs soft golden light with instrumental carols each evening, creating a serene rhythm that neighbors stop to watch on evening walks. Another relies entirely on solar-powered LED strings that glow like candlelight at dusk. Eco-friendly, energy-efficient, and undeniably beautiful.
The trick is balance. Start with a traditional aesthetic—warm whites, vintage reds, greenery that looks gathered from the forest—and let the technology disappear into the background. Smart lighting should enhance the emotion, not compete with it.
CRAFTING THAT OLD-WORLD FEEL
Old-world décor has made a steady return, indoors and out. Homeowners are turning away from plastic shimmer and toward natural textures—pinecones, linen ribbons, dried oranges, and brass candlesticks. These simple details feel rooted and real, especially when contrasted with The Woodlands’ modern architecture.
Inside, moody tones of forest green, burgundy, and champagne gold replace bright primary colors. Velvet stockings hang beside rustic wooden garlands. Many are rediscovering that less truly feels like more.
Outdoors, the same philosophy applies. Layer greenery around doorways or windows, weave in strands of warm white LED bulbs, and accent with oversized ornaments that recall a European Christmas market. One or two statement pieces—a copper lantern by the front door or a life-sized nutcracker on the porch adds personality without excess.
RECREATING THE MAGIC
Reproducing that nostalgic glow starts with choosing the right light. Warm white bulbs (around 2700K) mimic the cozy hue of
“In 17th-century Germany, families placed small flames on tree branches to honor the light of Christ. It was a simple, yet perilous gesture that turned winter darkness into something sacred.”
incandescent light without the energy cost. For a vintage look, try globe-shaped LEDs in muted tones or retro C9 bulbs for rooflines. Combine those with modern smart plugs so you can schedule them or adjust brightness from your phone.
If decorating trees or hedges, layer depth instead of density. Wrap lights close to the trunk for structure, then weave outward for a soft, dimensional effect. Finish with subtle uplighting or path lights that highlight architecture instead of overpowering it.
For those drawn to the grandeur of old-world estates, lanterns and candle-style lights remain timeless. Line your walkway with flameless pillar candles in hurricane glass or hang lanterns from
shepherd hooks along the driveway. The result feels both stately and welcoming.
WHERE NOSTALGIA MEETS NOW
The beauty of 2025 is that we no longer have to choose between the past and the present. We can keep the warmth of childhood Christmases and pair it with modern comfort. We can use smart lights that remember our schedules and still hang the same heirloom ornaments we’ve had for years. When the evenings grow long and quiet, those small sparks of light mean something more. They connect generations, turning every reflection in a windowpane into a memory worth keeping.
Meredith Boudousquié Founder Editor-In-Chief
The Peace
ARTICLE BY JOEL GRAY
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Precinct 3 Constable Ryan Gable on First Responders’ Service and Sacrifice During the Holidays
Keepers
The holiday season is a festive time of cheer and merriment—families and friends gather to celebrate and reflect on all they have to be grateful for. On the colder nights of December, the hallowed celebration of peace on earth and goodwill to mankind is for many the centerpiece of celebration. But for many families, peace—and what it takes to keep it—is not only the focus of the holidays, but of their entire lives.
The men and women of our local law enforcement agencies ensure that we experience peace throughout the season—often at the expense of their own downtime and safety. Among them is Precinct 3 Constable Ryan Gable, a long-time champion of community safety in The Woodlands.
THE SPIRIT OF THE LAW
With 32 years in law enforcement, 13 as elected constable, Ryan Gable leads by what he calls “the spirit of the law”—its deeper purpose of service and understanding. This includes acts like public service, charity, and deputies collectively seeking the flourishing of our beloved community.
“I want to make sure that our people are utilizing the spirit of the law when we know we can enforce the color of the law, definitely around the holidays,” Gable says.
As a constable elected by the people, Gable endeavors to execute his office diligently for our benefit, setting an example and engaging the community with service, with the ultimate goal of glorifying God.
VIGILANCE THROUGH “VACATION WATCH”
When asked about his experiences as an officer of the peace from Christmases past, Constable Gable somberly responded that though holidays can bring about joy, it is also a time of year where criminals seek to take advantage of the public. He recounted many holiday calls that invoked sadness rather than festive cheer.
“A person running into a store quickly and maybe they forget their bag or purse, or something is visible in a vehicle—those are the things we see ramp up; crimes of opportunity.”
Gable says that educating one’s family to be on guard and recognize crime is one of the best ways to help keep our community safe.
The Precinct 3 office offers various online services and programs to help the public in this effort, including “Vacation Watch,” a program in which deputies will conduct perimeter checks of out-of-towners’ homes, even relocating packages from their front doors. Gable said that his office does thousands of vacation watches a year, holding the bar high when it comes to setting the example of service and safety in our community.
“I WANT TO MAKE SURE THAT OUR PEOPLE ARE UTILIZING THE SPIRIT OF THE LAW WHEN WE KNOW WE CAN ENFORCE THE COLOR OF THE LAW, DEFINITELY AROUND THE HOLIDAYS,” GABLE SAYS OF COMMUNITY SAFETY.
GIVING AT WORK
Gable believes the best way to celebrate the season is by serving and giving generously. Every year, the constable’s office holds department celebrations with gift exchanges among the team, even giving away sports tickets.
But the Precinct 3 office is not only charitable internally. Through its Community Relations office, the constable’s office recently gave $2,500 to clothe needy children in Montgomery County, and they frequently work with organizations such as Interfaith of The Woodlands, Toys for Tots, Children’s Safe Harbor, and the Texas Youth Summit with the goals of protecting the children of Montgomery County and serving those in need.
FAMILY IS FIRST
When not on duty during the holidays, Constable Gable sees the season as all about family. Gable shares two children with his high school sweetheart and wife of 30 years, Heather. He holds firmly to the belief that family is first and has worked hard for decades so that his deputies are able to prioritize the same.
“Being gone on Christmas and Thanksgiving—that’s just part of the job,” Gable says. “And as you have an opportunity to move up or hold a higher rank, you can allow people under you that have children to get to be at home on Christmas. Us that didn’t have children at the time, we worked for those who did.”
When enjoying downtime from his duties as constable, Gable can be found celebrating with extended family, enjoying the thrill of college football, watching family-favorite holiday movie, “A Christmas Story,” and spending time hunting.
SERVICE IS PARAMOUNT
In spite of the daily challenges that our law enforcement officers face, Constable Gable and his office seek to lead by example, educate the public, and serve the community. He and his deputies see service as paramount in a season that demands so much from him and his staff.
“Probably one of the most important things to me is, where God places you, you represent that position in God’s will,” Gable says.
In a season that proclaims “peace on earth,” were it not for officers like Constable Ryan Gable who have devoted their lives to securing this peace on our behalf, we would not have been able to realize that peace so abundantly here in The Woodlands.
This holiday season, may we remember to thank members of law enforcement and their families for their great sacrifice.
Children’s Safe Harbor’s Victoria Constance, Former District Attorney Brett Ligon; Constable Gable; Sheriff Rand Henderson. Photo credit: Liz Grimm for Hello Woodlands.
Home for the Holidays with The Ferester Team
This Christmas season, there’s no place like home — and no team who knows it better than Beth Ferester & The Ferester Team at Corcoran Genesis Realty.
Whether you’re dreaming of a new home for the holidays or planning your next move in the new year, our team is here to guide you every step of the way — with care, expertise, and a touch of holiday cheer.
Trust the Team that has been:
✨ Serving our community with heart for over 40 years
���� Helping families find where memories are made
Congratulations to Beth Ferester on once again being named one of the top agents in the US by Real Trends!
Joy to the World!
ARTICLE BY JOEL GRAY
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Christmas is not only the season where we take much-needed time off from work to vacation at lavish alpine bungalows or gather ‘round the glowing hearth of our homes in celebration of family and the years to come. It is also a season of great spiritual contemplation, the season that brings “tidings of comfort and joy” as well as “peace on earth, goodwill to mankind.” So, to gain more understanding about the true meaning and long-established traditions surrounding the season of “Christ’s Mass,” I sat down with Reverend Juan Carlos Martinez, pastor of The Woodlands Reformed Church and a trustee of Westminster Theological Seminary, to gain his pastoral and theological insights.
LOCAL PASTOR JUAN CARLOS MARTINEZ DESCRIBES
THE REASON FOR THE SEASON
“THE WOODLANDS WAS FOUNDED ON THE VISION OF A COMMUNITY WHERE FAITH AND FLOURISHING GO HAND-IN-HAND.”
1. TO BEGIN, TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY—HOW LONG HAVE YOU LIVED AND PASTORED IN THE WOODLANDS?
I was born in Mexico, but in 1996, I moved to Houston to attend Rice University. I knew about The Woodlands, but I don’t recall visiting here until 2012. I remember thinking how beautiful this place was, with all the trees lining up the streets, but I never imagined I would live here one day.
In the summer of 2023, while living in Houston and serving as an associate pastor at a church there, I was invited to lead a Bible study in The Woodlands. After much prayer, the people who had begun the study believed that the Lord was leading them to plant a church. A couple of the members of the Bible study had met me at a Christian retreat and believed I would be a good fit to lead the study and turn it into a church plant. So, I led the study, and we all prayed, and the Lord did in fact stir all of us toward planting this church.
The Woodlands Reformed Church received its first members on October 27, 2024, and the Lord has blessed us with growth—both in numbers and in our love for Christ. We could not be more thankful for the Lord’s call upon our lives.
2. WHAT IS IT LIKE TO PASTOR IN THIS COMMUNITY? WHAT ENCOURAGES YOU MOST ABOUT THE WOODLANDS, AND WHERE DO YOU SEE OPPORTUNITIES FOR CONTINUED GROWTH?
Being a pastor anywhere is a great privilege. The church is the bride of Christ, so it is a great honor—and an equally great responsibility—to shepherd the apple of Christ’s eye. That being said, each location, and each church, for that matter, presents its unique characteristics and challenges. One of the distinguishing features of pastoring in a place like The Woodlands—as opposed to pastoring in a large city such as Houston—is that it more readily lends itself to gatherings outside of Sunday. The Woodlands enjoys all the amenities of being close to a large city, but it doesn’t come with one of the major drawbacks: traffic. This enables people to get together regularly during the week, and to more quickly build deep friendships that are centered around a common faith, a
Reverend Juan Carlos Martinez PASTOR
Reverend Juan Carlos Martinez is pastor of The Woodlands Reformed Church and has been an ordained minister in the PCA since 2013. He earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in electrical engineering from Rice University and worked in the semiconductor industry as a design engineer for 9 years. He then discerned a call to attend seminary and earned a master’s of Divinity from Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia. He has served on the Board of Trustees at Westminster since 2021. Juan Carlos is married to his high school sweetheart, Samara, a physician specializing in Family Medicine. Together, they have three children: Santiago Daniel, Karenina Valeska, and Juan Andrés.
common love for God’s Word, and a commitment to do life together, as members of the household of God. Therefore, a big part of pastoring in The Woodlands is liberally putting to use the gift of hospitality. We are a church that spends a lot of time together, enabling us to love and serve one another, but also to serve our community as one body. Since The Woodlands is a community that is self-contained, it is not uncommon to run into the people in restaurants or in parks, which allows us to build relationships outside the church.
A very encouraging feature of living in The Woodlands is that there really is a healthy sense of pride and love for the community. People care for their neighbors, and care to keep The Woodlands beautiful and safe. This not only makes our community a great place to live, but it also is a wonderful example of the kind of love for neighbor that the Bible calls us to display.
One of the areas of spiritual growth for a place like The Woodlands is in the area of making God our ultimate source of joy. Life in The Woodlands is so good—with all the beautiful parks, great schools, fine dining, shopping, entertainment, and, yes, golf. It is not difficult to make life all about comfort and the pursuit of pleasure. The problem with that, of course, is that if we fall into such temptation, we will make something good into something that is ultimate; and, when we do that, we always end up disappointed, because true joy and fulfillment can only be found in the Triune God of Scripture. So, we always have to be on guard against the snares of materialism, so we can enjoy the good gifts that God gives us, instead of ending up as slaves to those gifts.
3. AS THE CHRISTMAS SEASON DRAWS NEAR—A TIME FILLED WITH JOY, FAMILY, AND GIVING—HOW WOULD YOU ADVISE OUR READERS TO PREPARE FOR IT?
The best way to prepare for Christmas is not by rushing through stores, but by slowing down before Scripture. I encourage families to choose one of the four Gospels—perhaps Matthew or Luke, since they begin with the birth of Christ—and read through it together. As you do, reflect on the person and work of Jesus, who gave up His life to save sinners who could not save themselves. The story of Christmas is not merely that a child was born, but that God became man to redeem us. That truth should fill our homes with awe and gratitude.
Second, I would urge every family to commit themselves to a faithful, Bible-preaching church. The local church is where we learn to worship God according to His Word, grow as disciples of Christ, and proclaim His gospel to others. We are not meant to live as isolated believers, but as members of a body—encouraging one another through study, prayer, and lives of integrity that testify to God’s grace.
Third, cultivate gratitude in your hearts. Everything we have—our health, family, friends, and even the breath in our lungs—is a gift from God. The Christmas season is an opportunity to give thanks for these mercies, and to let thanksgiving shape our outlook on life.
Finally, look for ways to bless those in need. The world defines wealth by how much we possess, but the gospel teaches that true riches are found in Christ. The more we
rest in Him, the freer we are to give. When we realize that we already possess every spiritual blessing in Him, that He has given us an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, generosity becomes not an obligation, but a joy.
4. WHAT CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS ARE MOST MEANINGFUL TO YOU—EITHER PERSONALLY OR WITHIN YOUR CONGREGATION?
In our home, one of our favorite traditions is decorating the house for Christmas. In fact, we do this quite early: on November 1st! We especially love decorating the tree and setting up the nativity scene. We set up a little town of Bethlehem, and the whole display is more than a nice decoration—it is a visual sermon about the humility of God. As we arrange the figures, we’re reminded that the eternal Son of God took on human flesh to redeem us and to give us eternal life. Our home is filled with the sounds of our most beloved Christmas hymns as we decorate, and together we reflect on what the incarnation means for us as a family, and as members of the household of God. It truly is one of the most joyful times of the year.
As a church, we cherish the season of Advent, when our worship is built around the great themes of expectation and fulfillment. Each Sunday, our songs, prayers, and Scripture readings point us to the coming of Christ. The highlight of the season is our Christmas Eve Lessons & Carols Service, where we trace the story of redemption from Genesis to Revelation, culminating in a candlelight singing of “Silent Night” a cappella. It is one of the most beautiful moments of the year—when the sanctuary glows with candlelight and the people of God sing of the Light of the world who has come into the darkness.
5.
OUR
BEAUTIFUL, GROWING COMMUNITY
HAS A RICH HISTORY AND UNFOLDING LEGACY. HOW DO YOU HOPE TO SEE THE WOODLANDS CONTINUE TO FLOURISH— SPIRITUALLY AND SOCIALLY?
The Woodlands was founded on the vision of a community where faith and flourishing go hand-in-hand. George Mitchell, its founder, believed that a healthy community required strong churches at its heart. I couldn’t agree more. For The Woodlands to truly flourish we need churches that faithfully proclaim the truth of Scripture, as embassies of God’s kingdom.
Healthy churches produce healthy citizens. When the church takes seriously its calling to make disciples of Jesus Christ, it offers not only the hope of heaven but also becomes an outpost of heaven on earth. As believers live out their faith—loving their neighbors, serving those in need, forgiving those who wrong them—the community itself is transformed by grace.
If Christians in The Woodlands reflect the grace of the gospel in our daily lives, then this already-beautiful city in the trees can become something even more glorious: a City on a Hill, where the light of Christ shines through acts of love, mercy, and truth. That, I believe, is the true legacy worth building upon.
Christmas AN IRISH ADVENTURE
The streets are always full of people meeting for dinner and drinks.
Dublin’s Markets and Merrymaking
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY TWEDELL
Get into the holiday spirit early with a memorable trip to Dublin. After all, Christmas traditions run deep in the Emerald City. Pack your bags, warm knitted watch cap, and walking boots for a festive Irish adventure—from strolling the Dublin Castle Christmas market at night, hosted in the historic grounds of Dublin Castle, to touring the many
whiskey distilleries with storied pasts by night, a trip like this offers something for everyone.
A LUCKY ITINERARY
In the heart of Ireland’s capital, see the historic Book of Kells at Trinity College and walk across the notorious Ha'penny Bridge, built in 1816. When you’re done, learn how to pour a proper pint of Guinness at the epic Guinness Storehouse museum distillery.
All the Irish pubs flaunt their favorite Irish fare that will keep you warm before you bundle up to walk the streets. The Christmas Sandwich is a delicious seasonal specialty found at all pubs, along with traditional Shepherd's Pie, fish and chips, and savory lamb stews.
The Irish know how to bring the party to brunch. Locals and tourists come in costumes to dine and join the sing-along with live Irish bands. Check online and social media for places like McGettigan's Irish Pub and Clash Bar & Bites, an unforgettable, knee-slapping good time.
MUST TRY: TRDELNIK
Grab a quick bite of street food at many of the outdoor Christmas markets; vendors line the street in quaint gingerbread cutout food stands. My favorite dessert was a chimney cake, or trdelnik , a sweet, spiral-shaped dough baked over a hot grill and rolled in cinnamon sugar. Warm crepes, gourmet donuts, and fresh churned Murphy's ice cream are well-known treats among locals.
An unforgettable annual tradition in Dublin is the 12 Days of Christmas Pub Crawl, where most of the pubs partake in helping visitors and locals alike fulfill whimsical tasks at 12 different pubs. Did you know that Dublin boasts around 800 pubs? The Brazen Head dates back to 1198, Kehoe's, 1803, and The Palace Bar, 1832—each charming in its own way.
SLAINTE!
A three or four-day weekend in Ireland is the perfect trip before the hustle and bustle of the holidays descends.
Top: Food and drink at Irish pubs keep you warm on cold nights.
Middle: Inside Guinness Storehouse’s famous distillery is an amazing walking tour.
Bottom: The famous statue of The Galway Girl.
3 Festive Ways to Ring in the New Year in The Woodlands
Countdown Celebrations
What comes to mind when thinking of New Year’s Eve celebrations? Perhaps champagne toasts, dazzling fireworks, elegant dining, or family fun? With so many ways to celebrate here in The Woodlands, it can be hard to choose just one event—but no matter which way you plan to count down to the New Year, it’s sure to be a night to remember.
ARTICLE BY AUNIKA ANDERSON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Amerigo’s Grille
Ring in the New Year at Amerigo’s Grille! Enjoy an intimate dining experience with a special four-course dinner featuring cuisine from linguini fra diavolo to wild boar chop. Open from 5 p.m. to midnight, dine and dance to live music from a four-piece band beginning at 8:30 p.m. Private dining rooms are available for a more intimate, celebratory gathering with friends and family. At midnight, celebrate the year’s unforgettable moments with a champagne toast. Reservations are required and can be made at amerigos.com .
The Woodlands Children’s Museum
For family-friendly fun, The Woodlands Children’s Museum is hosting its annual New Year’s Eve party, High Noon Countdown, on December 31 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. With festive art projects—including creating a 2025 time capsule and hat—and entertainment provided by Tom’s Fun Band, this is a great way to “pop” into the new year with family! Reserve a spot by going to woodlandschildrensmuseum.org
The Woodlands Resort
Spend New Year’s at The Woodlands Resort during the Songwriters Festival, an unforgettable three-day celebration from December 29 to January 1 that features acclaimed songwriters and extraordinary culinary experiences. This inaugural event was created to inspire and move you through the craft of music, storytelling, and cuisine. On New Year’s Eve, savor a decadent five-course dinner and a headlining performance by Neal McCoy, culminating in a spectacular aerial show that will light up the sky—and make the night one you won’t forget. For tickets or to book your stay, visit woodlandsresort.com
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
DECEMBER 4TH
Holly Jolly Jingle
The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion | 7:00 PM
Get in the holiday spirit, as over 500 student musicians from Conroe ISD serenade you with Christmas classics and beloved carols. This free yearly event is always a fun and magical night for both the young and the young at heart. 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. woodlandscenter.org/ events/2025/performing-arts/holly-jolly-jingle
DECEMBER 11TH
The Sing Off 2025
Market Street | 6:30 PM
Local high school a cappella groups will be competing in a holiday-themed competition. "The Sing Off Champion" will be crowned following the competition. Spectators may bring a blanket or lawn chair to enjoy the performances and are encouraged to take advantage of hot cocoa, Christmas treats and all of the fun and local talent that this unique event offers! shopatmarketstreet.com/events/the-sing-off-2025
DECEMBER 12TH - 14TH
Tomball German Christmas Market
201 S. Elm Street, Old Town Tomball | 6:00 PM
Come and enjoy the family-friendly ambience – Gemütlichkeit – of this unique music and street festival that boasts three stages of live music and an open-air Christmas market with over 160 vendors. There's something for everyone! Friday, December 12th: 6 p.m. - 10 p.m. Saturday, December 13th: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. Sunday, December 14th: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. tomballgermanfest.org
DECEMBER 13TH
The Woodlands Winter Maker's Market
The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park | 10:00 AM
Enjoy a fun and festive day at The Woodlands Winter Maker's Market with craft fair vendors, delicious food trucks and fun reindeer game activities for the whole family. Don’t miss this local celebration of the holiday season that is perfect for creating cherished holiday memories. thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/Events-directory/2025/December/121325-The-Woodlands-Winter-Makers-Market
DECEMBER 19TH - 20TH
The Nutcracker Presented by Vitacca Ballet & School for Dance
Tomball High School Auditorium | 7:30 PM
Vitacca Ballet & School for Dance presents The Nutcracker, a dazzling holiday tradition for children and adults of all ages. Bring your family and friends on Clara’s magical journey from her home on Christmas Eve into the Land of Snow and Kingdom of Sweets. Friday, December 19th: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, December 20th: 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. vitaccadance.ludus.com/index.php?sections=events
DECEMBER 29TH - JANUARY 1ST
Songwriter's Festival
The Woodlands Resort | 6:00 PM
Enjoy this multi-day celebration of music, storytelling, and elevated culinary experiences designed to kick off the new year in style! December 29th: Welcome Reception, Dinner, Headliner Concert, December 30th: Songwriter Sessions, Curated Culinary Experiences, Intimate Evening Reception and Dinner, Headliner Concert, December 31st: Songwriter Sessions, Curated Culinary Experiences, Gala Dinner, Headliner Concert, Midnight Aerial Celebration, January 1st: Farewell Brunch. woodlandsresort.com/offers/songwriters-festival
TIME TO CELEBRATE
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