MARDI GRAS MEMORIES
A FAMILY-FRIENDLY TRIP TO NOLA FRUIT OF THE VINE GOD AS FATHER — CHURCH AS MOTHER SWEETS FOR SANTA TRY SOME NEW FESTIVE TREATS
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MARDI GRAS MEMORIES
A FAMILY-FRIENDLY TRIP TO NOLA FRUIT OF THE VINE GOD AS FATHER — CHURCH AS MOTHER SWEETS FOR SANTA TRY SOME NEW FESTIVE TREATS

THE TOTAL JOINT CARE TEAM AT BAYLOR SCOTT & WHITE ORTHOPEDIC AND SPINE HOSPITAL – ARLINGTON




























Regency Pain & Therapy Institute is consistently recognized for its outstanding team of doctors and amazing support staff. With years of combined experience, they strive to provide the highest standards of care and service throughout the treatment process while offering patients support and encouragement every step of the way. Their focus is on providing patients with a one-stop-shop for treating pain including patient education, medications, physical therapy, injections, and various procedures -- all under one roof.
“Don't let pain hold you back from doing the things you enjoy in life. Call today to schedule a consultation and discover how the Regency team can help you on your personal journey to wellness.”
Because each patient is unique, care is tailored, highly personal, and centered around the patient, their well-being, and their individual needs and preferences. Conditions routinely treated include:
• Chronic and Acute Pain
• Fibromyalgia
• Sciatica
• Neck and Back Pain
• Auto and Sports Injuries
• Scoliosis
• Neuropathy





IInnovative Therapies, Compassionate Care

Dr. Kathi took what she cal s “the ong road home” to chiropract c a path fi led with purpose growth and gratitude Before opening her Alvarado practice she worked in banking and also rode and showed horses professionally
She eventual y discovered her true ca ling whi e work ng with her first mentor
Dr. H. Lee Black, who she says “ ed me into all that I do” and opened doors to some of the top chiropractors and hea ers in the wor d “Ch ropractic really chose me ” she says “It allowed me to live what I teach that the body has an ncred ble abi ity to hea when we isten to it.” Over the decades she s become known as a pioneer in holistic and regenerat ve care drawing patients from around the world who seek her expert se in chronic pa n injury recovery, and whole-body hea ing She is one of on y two Certified Matrix Repatterning Practitioners (CMRP) n Texas and among the few offering advanced SacroOccipital Technique (SOT) care
Her approach is rooted in the be ief that healing is a partnership built on trust presence, and a wi lingness to address the mind body and sp rit as one Patients often describe leaving her care not on y w th less pa n but w th more energy clarity and hope than they have felt in years
At Hea th by Hands Wellness Dr. Kathi combines expert care advanced technology and genu ne compassion to address the root causes of pain Her personalized approach helps restore balance, movement and vitality guiding patients toward last ng rel ef and a healthier, more active l fe.
SoftWave® Tissue Regenerative Therapy
Dr Kath recently introduced SoftWave technology to he p pat ents reduce pain improve c rcu ation and act vate the body s natura stem ce ls for deep last ng tissue repair and recovery
Unl ke trad t ona ShockWave therapy which uses high- ntensity mechan ca force that can be uncomfortab e, SoftWave del vers gentle acoustic energy that promotes true regeneration and heal ng safely and effect ve y
Dr Kath and her team are ach eving remarkable results he p ng people recover from Traumat c Brain n ur es (TBI) Us ng SoftWave Therapy SmartPatches, gentle chiropract c and neural retrain ng patients often regain balance clar ty and energy as their bodies and m nds heal redefin ng hol stic ch ropractic care as restorative and l fe changing
They are a so having great results with techn ques that he p improve symptoms for peop e exper enc ng pa n fatigue, and neurological challenges supporting each pat ent s ourney toward lasting wel ness and vita ity
Always at the forefront of innovation, Dr. Kathi also offers SuperPatches a remarkable neurotech advancement that uses subtle frequency s gnal ng to commun cate d rectly with the nervous system These patches contain no drugs or chemicals yet they can he p support focus energy ba ance calm, and restorative sleep by opt m zing how the body’s natura systems nteract
The BStrong4Life™ System
Exclusive n Texas th s evidence-based strength and bone-bu lding system he ps restore mob lity balance and confidence It provides a safe natura way to address conditions such as osteopen a and osteoporosis w thout pharmaceut ca s helping patients rebu ld strength and stab lity from the ns de out
“My vis on for Health by Hands has a ways been of a ‘One-Stop Body Shop where patients discover the r own personal care plan ” Dr Kathi says “ strongly be ieve n a mind body, and spirit approach to hea ing ”
Her comm tment to l stening deep y to both her pat ents and the r bodies has made her a trusted healer and commun ty advocate When she s not n the c inic you can often find her on horseback or serving at PAWS for Reflection Ranch, a nonprof t where anima s and people come together to heal
Health by Hands Wel ness Center 12619 FM 917, Suite A, Alvarado, Texas 76009 (817) 930-0600 | healthbyhandswellness com







The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
– John 1:5
We’re living in a time of turmoil and uncertainty. (Although, I often wonder whether every generation hasn’t felt the same way.) Then, here comes Christmas, unchanged and unapologetic, reminding us that greater is that Babe who was born in a manger than any of the politics, tragedy, or celebrity scandal we might choose to doomscroll on our phones. Nothing that’s happening in the world will ever eclipse the true Light of the World. Because of that Light, we believers can sing our carols, celebrate our Savior, wish each other “Merry Christmas”, and really mean it. No circumstance on earth can erase the Hope that is Jesus or our inheritance as His children. This month, as you sing “Away in a Manger,” “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing,” and “O Holy Night” stop and really listen to the message that pierces all the darkness and gives us a reason to sing. “He appeared…and the soul felt its worth…” Amen and amen!

MISTY MORGAN, OWNER/PUBLISHER
Mmorgan@livingmagazine.net
(817) 908-2111


Get ready to embrace the festive spirit in Mans eld this December with exciting events that promise fun, learning, and holiday cheer for everyone! Kick o the month with the charming "Holiday at the House" on Dec. 6th from 11am to 3pm, where you can step back in time to experience an authentic 1870s Christmas. Tour the historic Man House and craft handmade gifts perfect for the season.
For the adventure-loving families, our Family Adventure Days on Dec. 6th & 7th at McKnight Park East feature the annual Snowman Run 5K, a delightful way to stay active and festive. Fishing enthusiasts can join our "Intro to Trout Fishing" classes at Oliver Nature Park on Dec. 6th, where families can also learn outdoor skills like pitching tents, using compasses, and enjoying s'mores around the camp re. Kids will love Deer Day on Dec. 9th, where they can create deer tracks and learn about wildlife. On Dec. 11th, visit
City Hall for the "SUPER Kids Santa Visits," a special photo opportunity with Santa for children with special needs. e holiday festivities continue with the Jane Austen Tea Party at the Man House Museum on Dec. 13th, featuring tea, book discussions, and trivia.
Nature lovers can join a bird walk at Oliver Nature Park on Dec. 16th, honing their bird identi cation skills. For the budding scientists, our Winter Chemistry event on Dec. 19th o ers hands-on experiments that are both fun and educational. Cap o the month with Family Pickleball Days at the Mans eld Activities Center on Dec. 30th. Don’t forget our Holiday Grease Roundup throughout December at the Environmental Collection Center—recycle your cooking grease and help keep Mans eld green. Come experience the joy and community spirit that makes Mans eld a wonderful place to celebrate the holidays!



Enjoy a season lled with lights, laughter and celebration!
Prairie Lights at Lynn Creek Park is now open through Dec. 31, featuring hundreds of spectacular displays and more than 4 million dazzling lights along a two-mile path. For details and tickets, visit prairielights.org.
Continue the holiday magic downtown at Main Street Magic, a month-long celebration packed with family-friendly activities and festive cheer. For more information, visit gptx.org/mainstreetmagic.

If you’re hoping to welcome an extra furry friend this season, consider participating in the Santa Paws Sleepover and host a dog from Grand Prairie Animal Services Dec. 24–Jan. 10. Registration is available at gptx.org/paws.
As we celebrate the holidays, we also celebrate our city. Congratulations to the City of Grand Prairie’s Information Technology Department for ranking

among the top 10 cities in the Center for Digital Government’s 2025 Digital Cities Survey. A round of applause also goes to the Communications and Marketing Department for earning six major statewide honors recognizing exceptional storytelling, video production, and public outreach, including a Lone Star Emmy for Amor GP.
Looking ahead, mark your calendar for MLK Day on January 19, when we’ll gather to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a parade celebrating his legacy, local community leaders, and the talents of Grand Prairie ISD students.
A quick reminder: during holiday weeks, garbage and recycling collection shift to the following day. Check the updated schedule at gptx.org/garbage to stay on track.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

For the rst time this year, the shift to cooler weather doesn’t mean we have to take a break from nding fresh local goodies at our local markets. In warmer months, the Downtown Arlington Farmers Market was the perfect place to nd community and support our local farmers and artisans. Because of the market’s growing popularity, the Arlington City Council has decided to extend the market to a year-round operation. e Market will also be adding space for more vendors, including some seasonal vendors for the holidays.

Vendors will take a break on the weekends following anksgiving and Christmas but, weather permitting, you can nd them any other Saturday from 10 to 2 in the parking lot at 300 Front Street. Parking is free, so come down and join in the fun.
Improvements like these abound in Arlington, and it has not gone unnoticed. Our city has been recognized yet again for its commitment to growth and opportunity. Travel Texas, a program run by the Governor’s Economic Development and Tourism o ce, recently designated Arlington as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certi ed Community. Arlington has already been recognized as Music Friendly and Film Friendly by Travel Texas and the new certi cation recognizes Arlington’s commitment to tourism, economic growth, job creation, and hospitality in welcoming visitors from all over Texas and beyond.


NOW - DECEMBER 31
PRAIRIE LIGHTS –CELEBRATING 20 MAGICAL YEARS
Grand Prairie
Enjoy the premier holiday drive-thru light experience in North Texas! Cruise through 4 million twinkling lights across a dazzling 3-mile route, including two signature light tunnels and all-new features that will take your breath away. 6pm-10pm. For tickets and information visit our website. Lynn Creek Park, 5610 Lake Ridge Pkwy. PRAIRIELIGHTS.ORG
DECEMBER 5
WINTER WAVE MOVIE NIGHT
Arlington Parks and Recreation
Join us for movie night showing Polar Express, where the water is warm, the lights are low and the movie magic is high. Bring your floaties and your favorite people for a night of swimming, relaxing, and big screen fun from the comfort of our heated indoor pool. 6pm. Cost is $8. East Rec Center, 1817 New York Ave.
DECEMBER 5
HOMETOWN HOLIDAYS
Mansfield
Interactive holiday art, visits with Santa, carnival rides, live entertainment, tree lighting and Hometown Holidays fireworks spectacular. 1200 E. Broad St.
DECEMBER 11 – 13
26TH ANNUAL OLDE TOWN CHRISTMAS MARKET
Arlington Parks and Recreation
Come be a part of an unforgettable holiday shopping adventure at Dottie Lynn Rec Center. Photos with Santa, tasty treats and plenty of fun! 9am-3pm. 3200 Norwood Lane.
DECEMBER 6, 13, 20
PHOTOS WITH SANTA Arlington
DECEMBER 11
SUPER KIDS SANTA VISITS
Mansfield
Santa is coming to Mansfield City Hall for calm, accessible space for children with special needs to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus. 5pm-8pm. This is a free event! City Hall, 1200 E. Broad. St.
DECEMBER 13
DONUTS WITH SANTA
Arlington Parks and Recreation
Children will enjoy delicious donuts, festive crafts, holiday games and a special visit with Santa Claus himself. Take photos, share their wish lists and create special memories. Enjoy tasty treats and fun activities for all ages. Cost is $3 per person. 10am-12pm. Ages 6 months- 4 years. The Beacon Rec Center, 1100 Mansfield Webb Rd. Visit our website to register.
NATURALLYFUN.ORG
DECEMBER 16
Arlington Parks and Recreation
Put on your cowboy hat for a fun afternoon of dancing. Get ready to dance the night away. 5pm-7pm. Cost is $15. Activ Center, 2061 W. Green Oaks Blvd. Visit our website to register.
NATURALLYFUN.ORG
JANUARY 7
Arlington Parks and Recreation
50+…Let’s celebrate the New Year at 12pm for Noon Year party! There will be refreshments, games, music and cupcakes. Come join us to start 2026 together. Cost is $5. Must be a 50+ member to participate. East Library and Rec Center, 1817 New York Ave. Visit our website to register.
NATURALLYFUN.ORG
From snowy adventures to heartwarming holiday tales, these five films bring the perfect mix of fun and feel-good cheer. Add themed snacks, and you’ve got winter nights covered!
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (2005)
Enter a snowy world of talking animals, icy villains, and epic courage. As the Pevensie siblings’ step through the wardrobe, families are reminded of the power of bravery and hope, even in the coldest of times.
Pevensie Peppermint Bark: Swirl white chocolate with crushed peppermint and dust it with silver sprinkles for a frosty, fairytale finish.
Jingle All the Way (1996)
Arnold Schwarzenegger’s hilarious quest for the sold-out Turbo Man doll captures the frenzy —and the fun — of holiday shopping. A comedy of chaos and family love, it’s a lighthearted reminder that the best gifts can’t be wrapped. Turbo Trail Mix: Combine pretzels, red and green M&M’s, caramel bits, and popcorn for a sweet-and-salty, high-energy snack.
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (2001)
family will receive a digital copy of their photo. All ages. 12pm-3pm. Free! East Rec Center, 1817 New York Ave. Visit our website to register. NATURALLYFUN.ORG
Santa is making a special appearance at Global Life Field! This will include a meet and greet and photo oppertunity with Santa in exclusive ballpark locations, before continuing on to a behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium. Guest can also write their letter to Santa and may even get a surprise back in the mail! 11am-1pm. 734 Stadium Dr.
To submit an event for consideration, email

The Holiday (2006)
A heartwarming tale of two women swapping homes — and finding love and self-discovery along the way. Set against the cozy backdrop of English cottages and California sunshine, it’s equal parts laughter, romance, and fresh-start inspiration.

Step into Hogwarts for a spellbinding start to the series, filled with snowy castle scenes, enchanted feasts, and friendship. Follow Harry, Hermione, and Ron as they uncover the mystery of the Sorcerer’s Stone and discover their place in a world of magic.
Butterbeer Popcorn: Drizzle caramel popcorn with butterscotch sauce mixed with a hint of vanilla for a cozy, wizard-worthy treat.
The Polar Express (2004)

This animated holiday journey captures the wonder of believing. A young boy’s ride to the North Pole aboard the Polar Express reminds us that magic is real when we choose
Offer mugs of cocoa with toppings like whipped cream, candy canes, chocolate syrup, and mini marshmallows to sip while the train chugs along.
WHY REVIVAL BEGINS IN THE PEW, NOT ON THE COUCH
BY MIKE MAZYCK

And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching. – Hebrews 10:24–25 (NKJV)
Is it possible to be a mature and healthy Christian believer and not be a deeply devoted member of a local church?
If you would have asked me that question ten years ago, I would have likely said yes. We were technically members of the local megachurch in our city, but our attendance was
sporadic at best, we had no deep Christian community in our lives, and we certainly weren’t using our time and talents to serve the Church in any meaningful way. I knew the command of Scripture, not to forsake the assembling of ourselves together but my heart responded with an abundance of great justifications. I told myself…
I am not “forsaking” the local church. We are just in a really busy season right now. God understands that we need a little rest on Sundays. Once we are out of this season, we will get committed.
The “church” just means any group of Christian brothers and sisters. As long as
I have fellowship with other Christians, it doesn’t really matter that I am not a committed member of a traditional local church. I don’t need the local church to be a healthy and mature Christian. The foundation of the Christian life is my personal time with God. As long as I am spending time with Him personally each day, I am good to go.
All of those excuses began to crumble in 2021 when God brought personal revival into my life after a difficult season of spiritual selfexamination. During that season, I put aside the self-help gurus and popular spiritual teachers of our day and began supplementing my time in the Word with the teachings of the great saints from past generations, men I now refer to as “the old dead guys”. I was searching for truth. Searching to see if these convictions that were coming upon me were from God. Searching to see if the Christianity I was seeing lived out all around me was the real thing. Searching to see what the Christian life was supposed to look like. And when it came to the role of the local church — searching to see if my all my justifications were really nothing more than excuses.
As I searched the Scriptures and delved into the writings of those old dead guys, I began to see that for the majority of church history, there was a version of Christianity being practiced that was radically different than what I was seeing lived out today. My eyes were beginning to open to my tragic neglect of many facets of the Christian life and conviction was setting in in many areas, not the least of which was my relationship, or lack thereof, with the local church.
My mind was gradually being transformed during this season, and I was coming to the conclusion that I had gotten something very wrong: The foundation and headquarters of the Christian life was not in fact the couch in my living room where I did my quiet times each day, it was the local church! I began to see that the local church was the centerpiece of the Christian life and that God had designed the Christian experience to be lived out within the context of deep community with other believers.
As I searched the Word, and surveyed the landscape of Christianity from past generations, my Western individualistic version of Christianity that allowed me to neglect the local church and live in isolation, was slowly collapsing.
In light of this new revelation, I knew that something had to change. I was being called
“ The church is the common mother of all the Godly, which bears, nourishes, and governs in the Lord both kings and commoners; and this is done by the ministry. Those who neglect or despise this order want to be wiser than Christ. Woe to their pride!”
— John Calvin
by God to repent of the sin I was living in; the sin of neglecting His Church — the very body of Christ Himself. To be clear, He was not calling me to simply be more consistent with sitting in a pew on Sunday mornings. No, He was calling me to much more, something much deeper. He was calling me to give my life to Him — through the local church! To orient my entire life around Him – through my commitment and service to the local church. My eyes had been opened up to see that this has been the model of Christianity throughout the majority of Church history, up until about the last 150 years. The saints of old would have found the thought of someone being a true Christian, and not being deeply committed to the local church, preposterous. Consider the words of Augustine…
“For outside the church they [one’s sins] have no remission. For it is the church in particular that has received the earnest, the Holy Spirit, apart from whom no sins receive remission... the deserter of the Church cannot be in Christ, since he is not among Christ’s members…for he cannot have God as his Father who does not have the Church for his mother.”
I realize those words of Augustine almost seem heretical to Christians today. But Augustine was not alone in his view. Martin Luther echoed his sentiment…
“Outside this Christian Church there is no salvation or forgiveness of sins, but everlasting death and damnation; even though there may be a magnificent appearance of holiness.”
John Calvin, in his commentary on Ephesians, writes it like this, “The church is the common mother of all the Godly, which bears, nourishes, and governs in the Lord both kings and commoners; and this is done by the ministry. Those who neglect or despise this order want to be wiser than Christ. Woe to their pride!”
In his book, Disciplines of a Godly Man modern day teacher Kent Hughes sums up his teaching on the local church with these words, “So we conclude that church hitchhikers, ecclesiastical wanderers, spiritual Lone Rangers, and Christians who disdain membership are aberrations in the history of the Christian church and are in grievous error.”
Are these men saying that membership in the local church is a pre-requisite to salvation? Are they making commitment and membership to a local church a “work” that is necessary for salvation? No, all of these men were deeply committed to the fact that salvation is by grace alone. As I ponder these difficult words they have said, I think that their logic would look something like this: The entire Christian life has been designed by God to be lived out within the context of the local church, which is founded upon deep fellowship and interconnectedness with other members of the body of Christ. Furthermore, the sacraments, nourishment, discipline, and encouragement that come as a result of this relationship with the body of Christ, are the primary means of grace by which God conforms us to His image. ( Ephesians 4:7-13) Just as the baby cannot survive without the nourishment and protection of the mother, the believer has no growth and life outside of the local church. If these things are true, then we know that any true Christian, with the Holy Spirit living inside of them, will be led by the Holy Spirit to become a deeply committed member to a local Church. If someone has rejected this relationship with the body of Christ, the logical question is this: Does the Holy Spirit actually dwell in them?
Scan the QR Code to finish this article, comment, and read more of Mike’s Writing.



FIND IT HERE AT BAYLOR SCOTT & WHITE ORTHOPEDIC AND SPINE HOSPITAL – ARLINGTON

When moving freely starts to feel out of reach, it is time for care that helps you regain strength and confidence. At Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic and Spine Hospital – Arlington (BSW Arlington), our team of fellowship-trained surgeons, advanced robotics program, and complete joint care services help thousands of people each year return to the activities they love most.
BSW Arlington is home to a rare concentration of expertise, an orthopedic-specialized facility with four fellowship-trained total joint surgeons. This distinction is uncommon even in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Under their leadership, the facility performs more than 2,500 hip, knee, and shoulder replacements every year.
Each of our total joint surgeons completed fellowship training in Adult Reconstruction, the orthopedic subspecialty devoted to advanced joint replacement and reconstruction of the hip, knee, and shoulder. That additional year of focused training brings deeper specialization, greater surgical precision, and extensive experience with complex cases. For patients, it means access to world-class, personalized care and cutting-edge technology right here at home.
Each of our total joint surgeons shares a commitment to helping people move confidently again:

Jason K. Lowry, MD has been the Director of the Total Joint Department since 2017. He proudly served in the Unites States Air Force prior to completing his fellowship at the Rubin Institute for Advanced Orthopedics in Baltimore, Maryland. He has been practicing in Arlington, Mansfield, and Midlothian since 2012. Dr. Lowry is board-certified and specializes in direct anterior hip replacement, robotic partial and total knee replacement, reverse total shoulder replacement, and revision of hip and knee replacements.

Thad Dean, MD specializes in robotic assisted and minimally invasive hip and knee replacement along with complex joint revision for limb salvage plus arthroscopy for the knee and shoulder. He has completed fellowship training in adult reconstruction and orthopedic oncology.


David Alan Rubin, MD is fellowship trained in adult reconstruction, specializing in total hip, knee, and shoulder replacement procedures designed for long-term joint function and comfort.
Jonathan Walsh, MD completed a fellowship in Adult Reconstruction at the Cleveland Clinic. He performs complex primary and revision hip and knee replacements using the latest robotic and computer-assisted technologies.
While these four physicians represent our fellowship-trained total joint team, they are also part of a broader group of skilled orthopedic surgeons and specialists who work together to provide comprehensive orthopedic and spine care.
Your experience is designed to be seamless from the first consultation through recovery. Every patient preparing for joint replacement attends Joint 101, an educational class that explains what to expect, how to prepare, and how to achieve the best results. Education builds confidence, and confident patients simply do better.
Safely controlling your pain is our top priority. Our surgeons utilize a “multimodal” approach to pain management. This is a multi-disciplinary team approach to minimize the negative effects of opioids, improve pain control, and improve your recovery.
We also offer comprehensive Pre-Assessment Testing and a pre-operative optimization program. Before surgery, we evaluate your overall health, lifestyle factors, and readiness. If something needs attention first, we pause, correct it, and move forward only when you are fully prepared. This extra layer of care reflects our ongoing commitment to safety and success.
EXPERTISE FOR COMPLEX AND SPECIALIZED CARE
Some joint surgeries require a higher level of expertise. Our surgeons perform complex revision procedures for patients who have had previous surgeries or ongoing joint issues. This advanced capability means patients across North Texas can access specialized care right here in Arlington.
For patients with tumors that affect bones, joints, or soft tissue, Dr. Thad Dean, MD provides expert care through his fellowship training in orthopedic oncology. His specialized skills allow patients to receive coordinated treatment without traveling or waiting for outside referrals.
At BSW Arlington, care is personal. From arrival to recovery, you will be supported by a dedicated team of surgeons, nurses, therapists, and staff who focus on helping you heal with confidence. Our boutique-sized

hospital provides the warmth of a smaller setting with the technology and resources of a world-class facility.
Designated as a Center of Excellence for Joint Replacement, BSW Arlington meets the highest standards for safety, outcomes, and patient satisfaction.
“Every certification reflects our shared dedication to improvement, innovation, and compassionate care. We have made it our mission to go above and beyond for our community. We take great pride in delivering world-class total joint care to our patients” - Dr. Jason K. Lowry, MD Director, Total Joint Department.
THE CONFIDENCE TO MOVE FORWARD
Every journey begins with a first step, and we are here to help you take it. Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic and Spine Hospital –Arlington combines advanced technology, surgical expertise, and genuine compassion to help you move forward with strength and confidence.




Methodist Mansfield was thrilled to welcome more than 500 enthusiastic participants to this year’s Run with Heart! The event was filled with energy, camaraderie, and inspiring performances — all centered around promoting health and wellness in our community.
Local elected officials joined in the celebration, including Mansfield Mayor Mike Evans, Arlington City Councilwoman Nikki Hunter, Judge Kenneth Sanders, and MISD School Board President Benita Reed, along with others. Their presence underscored the community-wide commitment to making health and wellness a shared priority.

More than 120 Mansfield ISD JROTC cadets and dozens of students from MISD Early College High School volunteered their time and talents to support the event.
This year’s Run with Heart not only encouraged healthy living but also strengthened the connections that make our community special. We are deeply grateful to everyone who ran, volunteered, and supported the event — your participation and passion made it a tremendous success!


Total: 3 hours 35 minutes
(includes proofing and cooling time)
Active: 30 minutes
Makes: 12 servings
Ingredients
Filling:
1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
2 cups brown sugar
2 tsp. cinnamon
Dough:
¼ cup warm water (110°F)
1 Tbsp. active dry yeast
1 Tbsp. granulated sugar
4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
1 tsp. kosher salt
1 cup warm whole milk (110°F)
½ cup canola oil
2 large eggs
Cooking spray
Cream Cheese Icing:
8 oz. cream cheese, room temperature
4 Tbsp. unsalted butter, room temperature
2 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp. vanilla extract
2 Tbsp. whole milk
To make the dough: In a small bowl, stir together the warm water, yeast, and sugar until dissolved. Let sit for about 5 minutes, until the mixture is foamy on top. Combine the flour and salt in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook attachment. Add warm milk, oil, and eggs. Turn the mixer on low speed and add the yeast mixture. As the dough comes together in the mixer, slowly increase the speed to medium-high and let it mix for 5 minutes. (The dough will be sticky.) Spray a large mixing bowl with cooking spray. Shape the dough into a ball with your hands and place it in the bowl. Cover with a towel and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 90 minutes.
To make the filling: Combine the butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a medium bowl and whip together with a hand mixer on medium speed until fully combined and smooth. Prepare a 9 x 13-inch baking pan by generously spraying it with cooking spray and preheat the oven to 350°. Punch down the dough to release the gases. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a 12 x 18-inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly across the dough making sure to coat the edges. Roll the dough into a log, beginning at the long end. Pinch the seam to seal and place the seam side down on the work surface. Cut the log into twelve 1½inch rolls. Place the rolls into the prepared 9 x 13-inch pan in 4 rows of 3. Cover the pan loosely with a towel and let it rest at room temperature for 25 minutes. Bake for 35
to 40 minutes, or until the cinnamon rolls are a deep golden color. Let cool for about 10 minutes.
To make the icing: In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, add the cream cheese and butter. Cream on medium-high speed for about 1 minute, until completely smooth. Add the powdered sugar and mix on low speed for 30 seconds, then increase to high speed for another minute, making sure the mixture is smooth., Add the milk and vanilla, then mix until combined with no clumps of sugar.
Let cinnamon rolls cool slightly for about 10 minutes then generously coat with icing. Store leftovers, in an airtight container, at room temperature for up to 2 days.
For those who love the comfort of homemade but don’t always have the time, Joanna now brings that same warm-fromthe-oven goodness to her new Magnolia Table Cinnamon Rolls, available in the freezer aisle at Target.
Made with real ingredients and baked to golden perfection, they’re a time-saving treat that tastes just like homemade. If you’re looking for a fun twist, try it out Jo’s way.

Total: 2 hours 30 minutes (includes thawing and proofing time) | Active: 20 minutes
Makes: 8 servings
Ingredients
2 packages of Magnolia Table Classic Cinnamon Rolls
½ cup butter, melted
¾ cup brown sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
Cream cheese icing (optional)
½ cup chopped pecans (optional)
Directions


Set the frozen cinnamon rolls out on the counter for about 30 to 45 minutes, or until mostly thawed. Preheat the oven to 350° and prepare a Bundt pan with baking spray. Melt the butter on the stove or in a microwave-safe bowl. Add the brown sugar and vanilla to the warm melted butter and mix until combined. Cut thawed cinnamon rolls into quarters. Spread half of the pieces evenly in the bottom of the Bundt pan, then drizzle with half of the brown sugar mixture. Repeat this process once more, layering the rest of the cinnamon roll pieces and finishing with the rest of the brown sugar mixture. Proof on the counter for 30 to 45 minutes, then bake for 45 to 50 minutes. Allow to cool for 10 minutes before turning out onto a plate. Top with cream cheese icing and chopped pecans if desired.








To







OF F One Regularly-priced Item* *Valid in-store or by shopping on-line wbu.com/arlingtontx promo code: ENJOY2O
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Cold weather, shorter days, and more time indoors often mean a higher chance of catching seasonal bugs. Your immune system works hard yearround, but winter brings unique challenges. Fortunately, a few intentional lifestyle habits can help strengthen your body’s defenses. According to experts at the Mayo Clinic and the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), the key is consistency and balance.
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.
Adults need seven to nine hours of quality rest each night. Sleep is when your body repairs and regenerates cells, including immune cells.
Even mild dehydration can weaken immune function. Water, herbal teas, and broth-based soups are excellent choices to keep you hydrated.
Citrus, leafy greens, berries, and cruciferous vegetables provide antioxidants and vitamin C, which support immune health.
Moderate activity, such as walking or yoga, enhances circulation and allows immune cells to move more effectively throughout the body.
Chronic stress can increase cortisol levels, which suppress immune responses. Practices like meditation or journaling are small daily tools with lasting benefits.
This classic advice remains one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs. The AAFP emphasizes scrubbing with soap for at least 20 seconds.
Excess alcohol and tobacco use impair immune defenses and increase susceptibility to infections. Cutting back can make a noticeable difference.
Gut health plays a crucial role in immune function. Fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, kimchi, and sauerkraut provide beneficial bacteria that support digestion and immunity. Research cited by the Mayo Clinic highlights the connection between a healthy microbiome and stronger immune defenses.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Obesity can disrupt normal immune function. Balanced eating and activity help keep weight within a range that supports overall health.
Keep Up with Preventive Care
Routine checkups, screenings, and blood work provide insights into your overall wellness. Your physician can also tailor advice for your individual needs.



































BY ANNETTE BROOKS
As beauty ideals shift toward authenticity and personalization, nonsurgical “tweakments” are growing in popularity across all age groups. From smoothing a wrinkle, adding a touch of volume, or firming skin that glows a little brighter, tweakments aren’t about chasing perfection — they’re about helping you look the best version of you.
WHAT ARE TWEAKMENTS?
Tweakments are nonsurgical, non- or minimally invasive procedures aimed at fine-tuning one’s appearance. Think of them as tweaks that subtly enhance and refine your appearance rather than total overhauls that can make people think you’ve “had work done.” Used regularly over time as preventive and maintenance services, tweakments help you maintain an ever-youthful, refreshed appearance.
Not in the conventional sense, although many plastic surgeons offer non- or minimally invasive aesthetic services as well as surgical procedures. Often, they will combine these services to deliver optimal results.
Traditional plastic surgery addresses longer-lasting changes that may require more recovery time. Examples include rhinoplasties (nose surgery), eyelid surgery, traditional liposuction, tummy tucks, facelifts and mini facelifts, breast lifts and augmentation, body lifts, and Mommy Makeovers.

Beauty is personal, tweakable, and timeless. Together, these treatments and more offer customizable solutions that deliver natural-looking yet noticeable results.
Botox, Dysport, and other neuromodulators - Smooth dynamic wrinkles such as crow’s feet, frown lines, “bunny lines” (lines on the sides of the nose), and lip wrinkles.
Dermal fillers – Add volume to cheeks, temples, undereye areas, chin, and jawline for a fuller, more youthful, lifted effect. Fillers are also used to plump lips, reduce the appearance of scars, and address signs of aging on the back of the hands.
Microneedling – Naturally stimulates collagen and elastin production, improves skin texture, reduces the appearance of enlarged pores, and more. Furthermore, microneedling can create microchannels in the skin, allowing topical treatments such as growth factors or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to penetrate more deeply and effectively.
Laser resurfacing – Lasers are used to address hyperpigmentation, sun damage, uneven skin tone, enlarged pores, lines and wrinkles, and more. Different types of lasers are used for laser resurfacing. The specific type used will depend on the condition being treated and your skin type.
RF (radio frequency) – RF treatments use heat to stimulate collagen production, tighten skin, reduce wrinkles, and improve texture by heating the dermis while protecting the epidermis. Some treatments use RF energy to help contour the body and reduce localized fat.
Ultrasound – Focused sound waves heat deep layers of skin, stimulating elastin and collagen production. Results include skin tightening, lifting, and wrinkle reduction.
CoolSculpting – Noninvasive body contouring designed to reduce stubborn fat pockets by freezing and destroying fat cells.
BBL and IPL – Broadband light and intense pulsed light treatments target skin concerns like hyperpigmentation, redness, and aging signs by delivering pulses of light to stimulate collagen and improve skin tone.
Chemical peels – These peels, which come in varying strengths, remove dead skin cells, improve texture, and address issues like acne, fine lines, and wrinkles.
Kybella – This injectable can reduce the appearance of submental fat, commonly known as a double chin, by breaking down fat cells.








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Even in Texas, where winter temperatures are milder than in northern states, pools need special care before the cooler months settle in. A well-planned closing routine will protect your investment, save on costly repairs, and ensure your pool is sparkling when spring arrives.
The first step is balancing the water chemistry. While swimmers may not be diving in during December, the water can still become a breeding ground for algae and bacteria if ignored. Adjusting pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness now helps preserve the pool’s interior finish and equipment. Many experts recommend shocking the water and adding an algaecide before covering. Next, give your pool a deep clean. Skim leaves, brush the walls, and vacuum debris.
In Texas, falling oak and pecan leaves can wreak havoc on filters and create staining if left too long. A spotless pool now means less scrubbing later.
Equipment care is equally important. Inspect the pump, filter, and heater, then backwash and empty all baskets. Even though most of the state rarely experiences deep freezes, sudden cold snaps can still cause damage. Draining water from pumps, filters, and lines prevents cracks or costly breakage. If you live in North Texas, where hard freezes are more likely, this step is essential.
After cleaning and maintenance, decide whether to keep your pool open yearround or cover it. Many Texans leave pools uncovered, enjoying the look of clear blue water all winter. However, installing a safety
cover keeps out debris and can reduce maintenance time. Solid or mesh covers also provide peace of mind for families with children or pets.
While some pool owners handle the process themselves, hiring a professional service often pays off. Certified pool technicians know how to winterize equipment properly and can spot small problems before they escalate. They’ll also test water balance with precision, ensuring your pool is protected until the next swimming season. Finally, don’t neglect safety. Even in winter, unattended water can pose risks. If you’re not using a cover, check that fences and gates are secure. A little extra attention now will safeguard your pool and property through the off-season.







There’s something about a glass of bubbles that turns any day into a celebration. From casual brunches to elegant dinners, sparkling wines bring cheer and charm to any table. But not all bubbles are created equal. No matter what you prefer, understanding what’s in your glass makes the experience even better.
Sparkling wine refers to any wine that contains carbonation, but the magic lies in how those bubbles are born. The traditional method, used for Champagne and many Cavas, creates bubbles through a second fermentation in the bottle. Prosecco, on the other hand, uses the Charmat method, where fermentation happens in large tanks, resulting in lighter, fresher bubbles. The process may differ, but the outcome is the same: a joyful fizz that makes every sip sing.
True Champagne comes only from France’s Champagne region. Its chalky soil, cool climate, and strict production rules give it complexity and finesse. Made primarily from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier grapes, Champagne offers notes of citrus, brioche, and almond.
It’s often the priciest of the bunch, but for good reason — this is where the art of sparkling wine began. Serve it with oysters, hard cheeses, or roasted nuts for a treat that feels indulgent yet effortless.
Cava must come from Spain, with the vast majority produced in Catalonia, particularly around the town of Sant Sadurní d’Anoia.
Crafted using the same traditional method as Champagne, it’s made primarily from native Spanish grapes like Macabeo, Xarel-lo, and Parellada. The result is a dry, zesty wine with hints of green apple, citrus, and almond. Cava offers sophistication without the splurge, pairing beautifully with tapas, seafood, and paella. Whether it’s a festive dinner or a casual afternoon, Cava’s lively bubbles make any occasion special.
Prosecco must come from designated regions in northeastern Italy, primarily Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia. The area surrounding the towns of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene is particularly renowned for producing high-quality bottles. Made mainly from the Glera grape, Prosecco is known for its fresh, fruity character with notes of pear, peach, and white flowers. It’s slightly sweeter and more approachable than Champagne or Cava, making it perfect for mimosas, aperitifs, or light summer sips. Serve it chilled with bruschetta, melon and prosciutto, or soft cheeses for an instant touch of Italian flair.
Beyond Europe’s classics, nearly every wine region now crafts its own sparkling versions. California’s Napa and Sonoma produce vibrant, fruit-forward options, while Oregon and Texas Hill Country offer exciting, homegrown varieties. Each reflects its local terroir, proving that you don’t need to travel far to enjoy great bubbles. Whether you’re toasting a milestone or simply celebrating the everyday, sparkling wine elevates the moment. Keep a few bottles chilled, mix up a spritz, or pour a flute straight from the fridge — because life’s little celebrations deserve to pop.




BY MIMI GREENWOOD KNIGHT
If all you know about Mardi Gras is the debauchery televised from Bourbon Street each year, it might be the last place you’d consider for a family vacation. But that’s just one small element of the New Orleans Carnival season. Many of the festivities are family friendly.
There will be parades in and around The Crescent City basically every weekend from King’s Day on January 6th through Mardi Gras Day on February 17. If you want the best bang for your buck, plan to be there the weekend immediately before and stay through Lundi Gras (Fat Monday) and Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday) Day. You can expect back-to-back parades in and around the city for those four days.
Visit MardiGrasNewOrleans.com for a list of parades in the city. Look for parades on St. Charles Avenue and in the suburb of Metairie. Both areas are known for family-friendly parades as are the New Orleans Northshore an hour north and the Mississippi Gulf Coast an hour east. Northshore parades are listed on VisitNorthshore.com. Mississippi parades are on CoastalMississippi.com. These outer areas may be easier for finding lodging as well, since New Orleans hotels book up months in advance.





If possible, bring a wagon or stroller for younger kids (with the added bonus of storage for you). Pack plenty of snacks, water, wipes, sunscreen, and something to stash all those glorious “throws” (beads, doubloons, toys, etc.) you’ll be catching from the floats. And bring cash since many vendors will be cash only.
If you want to greatly increase your fun and number of throws, COSTUME! A group costume will especially attract the attention of float riders and that’s the name of the game. A funny sign helps, too. And you might consider ear protection for very young kids because those glorious marching bands can be pretty loud.
Most restaurants and bars along parade routes offer bathrooms to paying customers only. However, some of them will sell bathroom passes on a per-visit (for a buck or two) or all-day (around $10) basis. It can be well worth it. There will usually be portable restrooms along parade routes, but bring extra TP and hand sanitizer and encourage little ones not to wait until the last minute since lines can be long.
Although Bourbon Street can be a bit on the grown-up side, one street over you’ll find Royal, lined with art galleries, antique shops, and boutiques that lead straight into Jackson Square, where street artists — both musical and fine — bring the city’s creative spirit to life. From there, hop aboard a horse-drawn carriage ride around the French Quarter for a charming and relaxed way to see the festive décor around the city.
In between parades and sightseeing stop for warm beignets at Café du Monde or Café Beignet —because no trip to New Orleans is complete without a little powdered sugar on your fingers.






LEAVE THE TRADITIONAL BAKES BEHIND FOR NEW FESTIVE TREATS BY JENNIFER BAJSEL
SERVINGS: 2 DOZ. PREP: 20 MIN. | COOK: 10 MIN. TOTAL: 30 MIN.
INGREDIENTS: 1 cup butter (2 sticks), softened ¼ cup powdered sugar | 1 egg | 1 tsp. almond extract | 2 tsp. vanilla extract | ½ tsp. peppermint extract | 1 ½ cups flour | ½ tsp. salt | ½ Tbsp. red food coloring | ¼ cup crushed peppermint candy | ¼ cup crushed granulated sugar
DIRECTIONS: PREHEAT oven to 375°. LINE a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. MIX the butter, powdered sugar, egg, almond extract, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract in a stand mixer. COMBINE flour and salt in a separate bowl. SLOWLY add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in the mixer. DIVIDE the dough in half. BLEND food coloring into one half. ROLL a 4” strip from each color (using about 1 tsp. of dough) on a lightly floured board. PLACE the strips side by side and twist them. PLACE on a baking sheet and curve the top to form the handle of a cane. REPEAT , working on each candy cane individually so the dough doesn’t become too dry to twist. BAKE 10 mins. until lightly browned. REMOVE from oven. MIX sugar and crushed candy cane together and sprinkle on cookies while still warm.
TIPS & TRICKS: Buy pre-crushed peppermint candy or crush candy canes. Solid peppermint candy is difficult to crush into a fine powder. Recipe adapted from Betty Crocker

SERVINGS: 4-5 DOZ. | PREP: 1 HR. 25 MIN. COOK: 15 MIN. | TOTAL: 1 HR. 40 MIN.
INGREDIENTS: 8 oz. cream cheese, softened 1 ½ sticks butter, softened 2 ½ cups flour 1 cup apricot jam or walnut filling | Powdered sugar, for dusting Walnut Filling: 2 egg whites | Pinch cream of tartar | 1 tsp. vanilla | ⅓ cup granulated sugar | 2 cups walnuts, ground
DIRECTIONS: PREHEAT oven to 350°. PREPARE a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside. MIX cream cheese and butter in a stand mixer. ADD flour and mix well. WRAP the dough and refrigerate it for 1 hour. GRIND walnuts using a food processor. WHISK egg whites with a pinch of cream of tartar in a stand mixer until foamy. SLOWLY add sugar and vanilla while continuing to whisk. FOLD in walnuts, set aside. TRADITIONAL folding: PLACE ¼ of the dough on a board and roll it out to a thin layer. CUT into 2” squares. PLACE the filling (jam or walnut) in the center and pinch the opposite sides together. RUB a little water on the pinched sides to keep them together while baking. BAKE 15 minutes. TRANSFER to a cooling rack and dust with powdered sugar.
TIPS & TRICKS: My Mom’s Folding Technique – Roll out the dough into a thin layer. Place the filling in a strip across the dough and roll it up. Cut the dough across the strip once it overlaps, and pinch. Slice the roll into 1” pieces. Follow the same baking instructions. When cool, roll in powdered sugar.


SERVINGS: 2 ½ DOZ. PREP: 20 MIN. COOK: 15 MIN. | TOTAL: 35 MIN.
INGREDIENTS: 1 ¼ cup granulated sugar ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened | 4 eggs 1 Tbsp. vanilla extract | 1 tsp. almond extract 3 ½ cups flour | 1 Tbsp. baking powder | 1 tsp. salt Icing: 1 Tbsp. butter, melted | ¼ cup milk 1 tsp. vanilla extract | ¼ tsp. almond extract | 3 cups powdered sugar Colored sprinkles to decorate
DIRECTIONS: PREHEAT oven to 350°. PREPARE a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside. COMBINE sugar and butter in a stand mixer and mix until fluffy. ADD eggs, one at a time, scraping down sides. ADD vanilla and almond extract and mix. COMBINE flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. ADD the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in the mixer and blend until well combined. USE a cookie scoop or tablespoon to measure out one-inch rounds of dough. ROLL in your hands to form a ball. PLACE the cookies on the baking sheet about two inches apart from each other. BAKE for 15 mins. REMOVE from oven and let cool on a wire rack. MELT butter and add milk, vanilla extract, almond extract, and powdered sugar to make a glaze. DIP the top of cookies in the glaze once completely cooled. ADD sprinkles to the top of cookies before the glaze dries.
TIPS & TRICKS: Traditional Anginetti uses multicolored sprinkles, but you can use whatever sprinkle colors are festive for the holidays.
Jennifer is a private chef in Dallas, TX, with a passion for home-cooked meals with a global influence. In addition to cooking, she hosts an Italian cooking show on national streaming television. To follow her, go to JenniferBajsel.com or find her on Instagram @JENNIFER_BAJSEL



WE LIKE TO FILL THEIR CHRISTMAS STOCKINGS

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These Upcycled Record Coasters by Jeff Davis turn every sip into a celebration. Each one is made from a vintage record label and sealed for durability. Perfect for entertaining or gifting to music lovers who like a playful pop on the table.
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