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PEACE ON EARTH
December has always carried a certain peace for me, a quiet pause wrapped in soft lights and familiar hymns. It’s often hard to find the quiet in the hustle and bustle of Christmas events, but it’s also joyous. It’s the month when our community feels a little closer, our homes feel a little warmer, and our hearts naturally turn toward gratitude. But above all else, December brings us back to the true heart of Christmas: the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.
In our home, the Christmas season is deeply intertwined with faith. Long before the gifts are wrapped or the stockings are hung, we prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ. Christmas Eve Mass is our most cherished tradition. A moment when the rush of the season settles, the world seems to exhale, and we step into the church to be reminded of why this celebration truly matters. The glow of candles, the familiar carols, and the nativity scene all center us again on the miracle God placed on this earth more than two thousand years ago.
As a mother myself, the nativity story touches me in a different, deeper way. I find myself lingering on Mary. A young woman, far from home, giving birth in a barn that was probably cold and uncomfortable, surrounded not by clean hospital walls but by hay and animals. As mothers, we understand the mix of anticipation, fear, and incredible love that comes with bringing a child into the world. And I imagine Mary, holding her newborn son—God’s own son—with both awe and tenderness. What courage she had. What trust. What a profound moment for all humanity. The birth of Jesus didn’t come with pageantry or grandeur. It came in the stillness of the night, in a manger, offered to the world as pure love.
their homes, all decorated beautifully for the holidays. Every home you enter is adorned a little differently, each decoration carrying special meaning for the homeowner. This expanded version of our monthly Chateau Chic feature is a joy to put together, as each family shares the spirit of Christmas in their own wonderful way, beginning on page 10.
Bags of Hope is a project that was created to help ease the burden of food insecurity in local elementary children. The organization, run by Misty Detiveaux, packs thousands upon thousands of bags each year that go home with children on the weekends when a meal may be hard to come by. Each bag has a sticker that says John 3:16, “You are loved.” The hope is that with every single bag that goes out, kids are reading God’s word and know that someone is thinking about them. Learn more about this program and how you can help, beginning on page 22. This issue also features our 15th annual POV Gift Guide! We welcome you to explore the hidden gems of our local shopping scene, where quaint boutiques and family-owned stores offer a delightful array of one-of-a-kind gifts. From handmade crafts to local artwork, discover the joy of finding the perfect present while supporting the vibrant community that makes Houma and Thibodaux unique. We hope you spend a little time (and a little money!) with these local shops featured on pages 20-21.
In our December issue of POV, we always welcome you Home for the Holidays. Four local families welcome us into
As we celebrate this season, my prayer is that we all find a moment to pause and remember the true reason for our joy. Whether you spend Christmas surrounded by family, serving others, or simply resting after a long year, may you feel the same peace that settled over the world the night our Savior was born.
From my family to yours, I wish you a blessed Christmas! POV
What’s your favorite Christmas song and why?
BRITTNEY
My favorite Christmas song is “It’s the Most Wonderful Time”. I love this song because it brings the spirits up and a reminder that all you need during the holiday season is to be around the people you love the most.
KACY
I love all Christmas music, but if I have to choose, then it would be “All I Want for Christmas Is You” (because my sister and I love singing it) and “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” (because my husband sang it to my kids as they grew up and still does).
MACY
ANNA
“Last Christmas” by Wham! That’s my favorite Christmas song, and it’s from the movie called Last Christmas!
My favorite Christmas song would be “O Come All Ye Faithful” or “Feliz Navidad” because they both give me that Christmas spirit!
ALEX
My current favorite Christmas tune would have to be “What Child Is This?” or “O Come All Ye Faithful” from Lauren Daigle’s album “Behold.” I love them because of the Jazz style and awesome trombone solos! Something about them just makes you feel good.
At Meyer Financial Group, relationships come first. Based in Thibodaux, our private wealth advisory practice has long served families and businesses across South Louisiana build confidence in their financial futures. Led by a talented team of financial advisors, we take pride in offering comprehensive financial guidance that’s as personal as it is professional. Our team specializes in investment management, retirement planning, estate planning, risk management, and multigenerational wealth planning – but our true value lies in the trust we build. Every plan we create begins with understanding our clients’ goals, values, and what matters most to them. Whether guiding a young family just starting out or helping individuals plan for life’s next chapter, our purpose is to help clients live more confidently, knowing they have a team of advisors dedicated to their long-term success.
Yet our work doesn’t stop at financial planning. Our shared commitment to family and community inspired the creation of The Ben Meyer Foundation in 2016, honoring the life and legacy of Ben Meyer. What began as a tribute to Ben’s love for people and music has evolved into a powerful platform for good –supporting youth, the arts, and community programs that strengthen South Louisiana. The Foundation has proudly supported organizations such as Beyond the Bell, Bridge to Independence, CASA of Lafourche, MAX Charter School, McDonnell House, and this year’s beneficiary, the Camille A. Morvant Children’s Advocacy Center of Lafourche.
Each year, the Foundation’s largest fundraiser –Acadia Music Fest – brings thousands together for a day of live music, local food, and community spirit. What started as a local concert has grown into one of the region’s
premier festivals, attracting thousands of attendees, featuring national acts alongside local favorites, and raising vital funds for causes that make a difference right here at home. The 2025 festival was one of our most successful yet – filled with energy, connection, and purpose.
Looking Ahead
As we look to the future, both Meyer Financial Group and The Ben Meyer Foundation remain focused on growth – not just in size, but in purpose and impact.
For Meyer Financial Group, that means continuing to expand our reach, deepen client relationships, and provide innovative, personalized financial strategies that help families and businesses thrive for generations. We’re committed to being a steady partner through life’s many seasons - ensuring our clients’ goals, dreams, and legacies are secure.
For the Ben Meyer Foundation, the vision is equally forward focused. We aim to broaden our community partnerships, increase the funds we’re able to give back, and enhance the Acadia Music Fest experience year after year –drawing new audiences, new sponsors, and new opportunities to make a difference. What started as a celebration of Ben’s love for music and people has grown into a legacy that continues to unite and uplift our region.
Together, these efforts reflect who we are at our core: a team dedicated to helping families prosper and our community flourish. From the clients we serve to the causes we champion, we’re proud to keep building a legacy of purpose, generosity, and growth – one that truly makes South Louisiana stronger for years to come.
HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
BY BONNIE
Christmas invites us to slow down, gather close, and celebrate the moments that make this season meaningful. One of the joys of the holidays is stepping inside homes transformed with memories, traditions, and personal style—each space telling its own festive story. This year, designer Shannon Bella once again brings her extraordinary eye for detail to homes across our community, creating settings filled with beauty, warmth, and Christmas magic.
Join us as we tour these elegantly decorated spaces and experience the spirit of the season through the families who call them home. Follow Shannon Bella on Instagram at @KnightNDayDesigns for more holiday inspiration!
RUSHING • HOMES DECORATED BY SHANNON BELLA
The Magic of Mr. Bingle
This festive home brings the beloved Louisiana icon Mr. Bingle to life with whimsical charm. A joyful tree overflowing with plush Bingles and candy-striped details sets the tone, while the mantel highlights the classic “Story of Mr. Bingle” surrounded by playful characters. Bright reds, teals, and holiday greenery fill the space with nostalgia. With every “Jingle, Jangle, Jingle,” this home celebrates the childhood magic and enduring tradition of a true New Orleans Christmas favorite.
Gathered with Grace
This elegant home blends rich, classic Christmas elements with modern, sophisticated styling. Deep red velvet ribbons, gold accents, and natural greenery create a warm and inviting feel throughout each room. From the beautifully adorned tree to the serene nativity displays and thoughtfully styled vignettes, every detail is curated with intention. Soft candlelight, layered textures, and festive botanicals bring depth and charm, resulting in a holiday atmosphere that feels both refined and deeply nostalgic.
For decades, Country Living Magazine has taught millions of readers across America how to turn their house into a home. Country Living has teamed up with Legacy Classic Furniture to create & curate a line of exclusive furniture that brings that lifestyle to life.
The whole-home collection has numerous pieces in an assortment of finishes that look collected over time and work together to create a unique curated style. EXCLUSIVELY AT
Splendor of the Season
This elegant home embraces a grand Christmas style built on rich crimson, shimmering gold, and timeless nativity displays. A soaring tree overflowing with luxe ribbons, ornaments, and gilded accents sets a festive tone, while the marble fireplace becomes the centerpiece with its stunning Holy Family scene framed by lush garlands and velvet stockings. Classic red-and-gold garlands drape the staircase and entryway, creating a warm welcome from the moment you arrive. Refined, radiant, and deeply traditional, this home captures the beauty and meaning of the season.
Classic Christmas Charm
This home celebrates timeless Christmas style with rich reds, greens, and golds woven throughout every room. The entryway sets the tone with lush garlands, oversized ornaments, and traditional nutcrackers. Inside, heirloom linens, festive table settings, and seasonal touches in the kitchen create a warm, nostalgic atmosphere. A classic nativity, glowing greenery, and a playful village scene add layers of tradition. From the elegant mantel to the whimsical tree, this home embodies the magic of a classic Southern Christmas.
December 2025 18 povhouma.com
BY ISABELLE PINTO | PHOTOS PROVIDED
Food insecurity is steadily on the rise across the entire nation, and Terrebonne Parish is no exception. According to Feeding America, an estimated 18,000 residents in our area– including thousands of children– are unsure of where their next meal is coming from.
For Houma resident Misty Detiveaux, this staggering number caught her attention and became a call to action– paving the way for the launch of local nonprofit Bags of Hope in 2017, with the goal to provide take-home food for school children in need across the parish. Now, after eight years of service and thousands of meals donated, Bags of Hope is continuing to grow in tireless service to our community.
"I read an article a few years ago that there were over 700 kids deemed homeless in Terrebonne Parish, and thousands more without food," explained Misty. "At that time, I really felt like God put the question on my heart: What do we do about this? I
didn't know anything about food insecurity or where to begin, but God opened these doors and we were able to start Bags of Hope."
With funding in place and the nod of approval from the Terrebonne Parish Public School District, Misty began contacting local schools in the area to locate where the most need may be. "At this point, we were packing bags out of the shed in my yard," said Misty. "We began working with a few schools and were providing 37 bags per week for 37 children, which seemed like so many back then."
Coordinating with local public schools directly, volunteers at Bags of Hope are provided a number from principals at the beginning of each school year of how many students are food insecure – meaning, when they leave school for the weekend, they may not see a full meal again until school on Monday. Guidance counselors help determine which students would
benefit the most from the Bags of Hope, and teachers then place the bags discreetly into the children’s backpacks during school hours on Friday. The identities of the students remain entirely anonymous to Bags of Hope volunteers.
The bags themselves contain a wide variety of food, ensuring each child has access to well-rounded nutrition– including fruit, vegetables, and protein– to keep them full over the weekend. The food selected for the bags are designed for children of all ages to use entirely independently, with no need for stoves, microwaves, fridges, kitchen tools, or help from adults.
"Our goal is not only to keep the kids fed, but to make sure they feel loved," continued Misty. “On the bags, we have a sticker that says John 3:16, ‘You are loved.’ We know with every single bag that goes out, kids are reading God’s word and know that someone is thinking about them. No child should ever have to go hungry."
Eight years later, Bags of Hope has grown exponentially. Volunteers are now packing bags weekly for 400 kids across nine schools in Terrebonne Parish, with more schools expected to join– which amounts to over $70,000 yearly worth of food. No longer working out of a shed, Bags of Hope operates out of a provided room in Mulberry Church with a wide network of community members packing bags and local foundations providing the necessary funds for food and materials. Bags of Hope also works in conjunction with other local food banks, such as Second Harvest, to help fill donation gaps and ensure these kids always have enough to eat.
As Bags of Hope continues to grow, so does the need for food across Terrebonne Parish and Louisiana as a whole– and the increasing demand is certainly felt within the nonprofit.
"We've definitely noticed an increase in food insecurity across Terrebonne Parish
since we started. The numbers the schools are providing get bigger each year," said Misty. "But the numbers we see are just a small fraction of the true amount of kids in need in our area. If you ask any local teacher if they know a student who is food insecure, I guarantee the answer will be yes. We will never turn down a volunteer, and are always looking for hands to help so our reach can grow."
If you are looking to help out, whether by packing, delivering, or providing for bags,
Misty encourages anyone interested to contact her at (985) 665-7313. Even as the need for accessible food becomes bigger everyday, Bags of Hope is ready for the challenge.
"Seeing God use me to be a small part of this mission to help kids is the biggest blessing," said Misty. "Knowing these kids are getting food and seeing that little sticker that reminds them they are loved has changed my life. I can't wait to see where Bags of Hope takes us in the future." POV
WE SUPPORT A HEALTHIER FUTURE |
BY KATIE RICHARD, MA, BSN, RN, DIRECTOR
NEED SLEEP? OVERCOMING EYES WIDE OPEN
Do you often feel like you've gone 12 bruising rounds in a boxing ring overnight? The opponent preventing a good night’s sleep may be your pillow, frequent trips to the bathroom, a bedmate’s incessant snoring or brain chatter that won't quieten.
Whatever the culprit, it’s depriving you of the golden 7 to 9 hours of sleep your brain and body need to function properly. Here are some tips to help overcome eyes wide open and energize your body.
Skip naps. Remember Dr. Pepper ’ s famous "10, 2 and 4" slogan about energy and blood sugar slumps? If you feel sluggish, particularly in the afternoon, take a walk, drink a glass of water and maybe a cup of tea or coffee—but not too close to bedtime.
Power off. Turn off screens—TVs, computers, phones—at least an hour before going to bed. While there’s some debate about blue light, resist checking email from bed.
Hide the clock. You may have nights when you wake up every hour on the hour. As a routine, place the clock or
phone out of reach.
Pick a perfect pillow. If you're sparring with a pillow, it’s time to go shopping. Invest in a pillow that’s not too firm, not too soft but just right for cradling your head. It should support the natural curve of your neck when resting on your back. For side sleepers, line the nose up the center of your body. Avoid sleeping on your stomach and twisting your neck.
Eliminate allergens. Get rid of as many triggers as possible in the bedroom. Send pets to their own beds. Seal mattresses, box springs and pillows in air-tight, dustproof covers. Routinely clean ceiling fans. Avoid down products.
Adjust the temp. Set the thermostat between 68 and 72 degrees at night.
Stay on schedule. Go to sleep and wake up at basically the same time each day, including weekends and vacations.
De-energize. Regular aerobic exercise can help you sleep but finish vigorous workouts 3 to 4 hours before bedtime. Gentle movement such as yoga, tai chi or evening strolls promote better sleep.
Light bites at night. Avoid heavy foods and large meals at night. Resist late-night snacking. Finish eating at least an hour before bed.
Limit alcohol. Alcoholic beverages can make you drowsy, but too many may cause you to wake up throughout the night—not to mention morning-after effects.
Balance hydration. Drink water throughout the day, tapering off 2 hours before bed.
Wind down. Try to let go of the day’s worries and start relaxing about an hour before bed. Dim the lights. Take a warm bath. Read a book. Meditate. Listen to calm music.
If sleeplessness persists, it may be time to see your doctor. Certain medical conditions, medications or depression may be keeping your eyes wide open. Have sleep questions? Learn more from our sleep experts at Thibodaux Regional Sleep Disorders Center at 985.493.4759.
UNDER THE SCOPE | BY JOHN
DOUCET
LÉGENDE DE NOËL ACADIENNE
The year 1785. The Spanish territorial government in Louisiana has landed Acadian settlers along the upper reaches of Bayous Lafourche and Terrebonne. Though settlers left their possessions behind in the ancestral lands, they carried their legends with them. One tells that on Christmas Eve animals are given the gift of speech. It’s said that if someone hears the animals speaking, then he or she will suffer dire consequences in the new year. The legend says nothing, however, about reading an English-language transcription.
Horse: Nice of the new humans to make this clearing for us.
Raccoon: Not for us. They used the trees to make that big fire over there.
Bear: They sure are noisy tonight. Especially the little cubs.
Coyote: You all sound strange today. Are you using words again?
Deer: Maybe it’s the weather. Is something going around? Because I catch everything. Maybe I should go.
Horse: Neigh, my friend. Or would that be “nay”?
Racccon: Yeah, stick around and watch humans act like wild animals.
Coyote: Wilder than us?
Bear: Do they have food? I’ve eaten all year long, and I’m still hungry! I could eat a cow!
Horse: How do you know that? Have you ever even seen a cow?
Racoon: The humans have one. Look at that thing beyond the fence!
Deer: Domesticated? How inhumane!
Bear: I wonder what that tastes like.
Deer: Probably full of marbling. Yuk! You’d eat that?
Coyote: You eat the grass it fertilizes. I’ll start at the shanks.
Deer: How can y’all eat other animals?
Bear: I’m an apex predator.
Deer: What’s that mean?
Bear: It means cow tastes good.
Deer: Oh, deer.
Raccoon: Pay attention! We only get to watch this once a year. They start with drinking. Bear: That’s drinking? They don’t have to dip their snouts in the bayou?
Raccoon: They put the bayou in a jug and then bring it to their snouts.
Deer: That’s brilliant.
Racoon: And tonight it ain’t bayou water. In a few minutes, the drinking leads to singing.
Coyote: Oh, I can do that! Listen to this howl I prepared just for tonight…
Deer: No, no! No howling! They shouldn’t hear us!
Coyote: Why do we care about that? What did they ever do for us?
Horse: They made this clearing.
Bear: They brought cow.
Racoon: And they’re fun to watch. Look: The singing becomes dancing.
Horse: That looks like rearing and trotting. I can do that!
Deer: Non, non! Reste tranquille!
Coyote: Oh, now you’re talking like them? Our mouths can’t eat their cow but your brain can eat their words? What hypocrisy!
Bear: How long do they dance? I’m on a tight schedule. I should be hibernating already.
Raccoon: Until they start stumbling over one another. And then everything gets quiet.
Bear: That’s it? You brought us all the way out here to see things get quiet?
Raccoon: There’s more: Now they hold paws, sway to-and-fro, and start chanting slow songs.
Deer: Oh, it sounds beautiful.
Horse: Like they’re calling the stars. What polyphony!
Coyote: Like a pack of my brethren during a hunt.
Deer: Oh, deer! Sorry. I meant “dear.”
Racoon: And then they wrap their paws around little things and give the little things to each other. And then they hug and sometimes even cry.
Horse: Except the little cubs. They seem to rear and trot nonstop.
Bear: What do they give?
Raccoon: Can’t tell. But giving seems to make them happy.
Deer: I need some happy! What can we give to each other tonight?
Bear: Sorry, I already ate all my food. I’m on a tight schedule.
Horse: I can give some hair. I hear they make brushes from my mane.
Bear: Useless! We groom with tongues.
Horse: It’s the thought that counts.
Coyote: I could hunt and bring meat.
Deer: Oh, deer!
Racoon: I could knit some sweaters. Really! Look at these paws.
Horse: I know what! I have lots of fallen fruit stashed away in the woods where I rest.
Raccoon: Why would we want some rotted, fermenting fruit?
Horse: When I eat it, it makes me happy and warm all over. Makes me want to rear and trot. Just like them.
Raccoon: Sorta releases your inhibitions?
Bear: What are those?
Coyote: Don’t worry. Bears don’t have any.
Deer: I sure have some! I’m in!
Horse: Well, their fire is slowly dying. And, my deer, they’re now goodbye-ing.
Coyote: Because she’s such a jittery doe, let us go, let us go, let us go!
Horse: Follow me. Westward leading till the feeding.
Deer: I’m frightened. There’s some rustling that way, and it’s dark.
Horse: Nay. Where we’re going, all is calm, all is bright.
Bear: We gotta walk? I’m on a tight schedule. Don’t you have an open sleigh or something? POV
Happy Holidays from Houma Family Dental. Happy Holidays from Houma Family Dental. Houma Family Dental
In partnership with the Houma-Terrebonne Chamber of Commerce, POV is accepting nominations for the 2025 Community Impact Award — honoring a Terrebonne Parish resident making a meaningful di erence in our community.
24, 2025, AT NOON. Scan here for more information and to make a nomination.
RENDEZVOUS
| WHERE YOU NEED TO BE AROUND TOWN
Breakfast with Santa
December 6, 7-10:30 a.m.
Dickie Barker Student Union (Cafeteria), Vandebilt Catholic High School, Houma
The Kiwanis Club of Houma Foundation presents Breakfast with Santa! Enjoy delicious pancakes, sausage, coffee, milk and juice. There will be children’s activities and pictures with Santa ($5). Tickets are $9 in advance or $10 at the door. Tickets are available from Kiwanis members or Terrebonne High School Key Club members.
Market at the Marina
December 6, 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Downtown Houma Marina
The market features many local vendors selling lots of local goods such as fruits, vegetables, bread, jams and jellies, meat and seafood, homemade body care products, and so many other amazing items that will make wonderful Christmas gifts! We’re excited to welcome two special performances to this year’s Christmas Market: Cotie Price and the St. Matthew’s Church Children’s Choir.
Reindeer Rowe
December 6, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Warren J. Harang Municipal Auditorium, Thibodaux
Reindeer Rowe is Thibodaux’s favorite holiday shopping event, featuring over 40 unique vendors, festive gifts, and seasonal treasures. Celebrating its 10th year in 2025, the market offers a fun, family-friendly way to kick off the holiday season. Your ticket also includes access to Santa’s Workshop, a brand new holiday experience! It’s a magical space for kids to enjoy festive crafts, write letters to Santa, and make special holiday memories.
Reindeer Run 5K
December 6, 11 a.m.
Downtown Houma
It’s the most RUN-derful time of the year! Join Girls on the Run for the 14th Annual Reindeer Run 5K in Downtown Houma! This Christmasthemed 5K is fun for the whole family, with food, entertainment, and festive cheer around every corner! Register today at gotrbayouregion.org. On-site registration begins at 9 a.m. Let’s jingle all the way for a great cause, supporting Girls on the Run Bayou Region!
Houma Christmas Parade
December 6, 5 p.m.
Downtown Houma area
Kick-off the holiday season with the Houma Christmas Parade! The Parade begins at 5 p.m. with the lighting of the Christmas tree to follow.
Thibodaux Christmas Parade
December 7, 2:30 p.m.
Thibodaux
The magic of the season is coming to Thibodaux! Join us for the annual Thibodaux Christmas Parade, featuring floats, bands, vehicles, dance teams, and more spreading holiday cheer through the streets of downtown. After the parade, head over to Peltier Park for a festive holiday celebration with Santa, music, activities, and treats for the whole family to enjoy. Don’t miss this beloved community tradition that brings the spirit of Christmas to life in Thibodaux!
Christmas Sing-Along
December 7, 7:30 p.m.
Mary & Al Danos Theater, Nicholls State University
Join us for Vive Les Arts, a vibrant new performing arts series presented by the College of Liberal Arts at Nicholls State University. December’s event is the Nicholls Choirs and Department of Music Christmas Sing-Along Concert. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased online.
Storytime Ballet: The Nutcracker
December 8, 6 p.m.
Main Branch Library, Houma
Step into a world of wonder and whimsy as we bring the holiday magic to life with a celebration of the beloved classic, The Nutcracker! Be captivated by a mesmerizing performance of this timeless tale, brought to life by the talented dancers of the River Region Ballet. Their grace and artistry will transport you straight into Clara’s enchanting dreamworld. This is more than just an event; it’s an unforgettable holiday experience filled with joy, beauty, and the spirit of the season. Gather your loved ones and join us for an enchanting evening that will leave you inspired and filled with holiday cheer!
BCCM’s Papa Noel
December 13, 2 sessions
Bayou Country Children’s Museum
Papa Noel is coming to town, and he’s making a stop at BCCM! Join us for our annual Papa Noel event filled with storytime, Santa photos, a children’s choir, a festive candy bar, crafts, games, and museum play. There are two sessions to choose from: 12-2 p.m. and 3-5 p.m. Tickets are $12 for members and $15 for non-members. POV
