Living Magazine December 2017

To All a Good Night

The Reflection Issue DECEMBER 2017 MANSFIELD ARLINGTON GRAND PRAIRIE EDITION

Put on the party dress

PLUS!

Local happenings, community events, and more...

TIDINGS OF GREAT JOY Wishing our readers a very Merry Christmas

PARTY, PEOPLE Bites and beverage for year-end happiness

CHRISTMAS IN BETHLEHEM Pennsylvania’s hidden holiday treasure

BEHIND THE SCENES WITH

Leslie Hall & The ZigZag Stripe

COLLABORATE. DESIGN. REVEAL. CUSTOM WINDOW TREATMENTS • FURNITURE • LIGHTING • STAGING WALL AND FLOORS • ACCESSORIES • BUSINESS INTERIORS • OUTDOOR FURNISHINGS

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Merry Christmas to Me

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2016 & 2017

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Restylane/Perlane/Juvederm Botox/Dysport Medical Facials/Peels IPL Photorejuvenation

DECEMBER 2017 THE REFLECTION ISSUE

Microdemabrasion/Microdermapeel CoolSculpting

ON THE COVER

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18 I ZIGZAG STRIPE IN THE SPOTLIGHT Breast Enlargement

22 I OFFICE EQUITY SOLUTIONS 24 I CHILDREN’S COURTYARD

Breast Lift Tummy Tuck

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Lipo Selection Liposuction

BONUS FEATURE

EXCELLENCE

IN EDUCATION

Help your kids put their best feet forward

PAGE 40 TO P

2017

2013, 2015, 2017

IN EVERY ISSUE 10 FROM THE

2013, 2015, 2017

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PUBLISHER

12 14 16 20

SOCIAL CALENDAR BEST BETS TALK OF THE TOWN

WELLNESS

CUISINE

26 I Achy Breaky Body

58 I Cheers!

AESTHETICS 30 I

Revitalized Routine 32

MAKEUP CONTOURING

HOMESTEAD 34 I Perfect Potpourri

62 HOLIDAY SNACKS

FEATURES 42 I Obalon: An Easy Pill to Swallow The newest, coolest weight loss procedure

50 I To All a Good Night Put on the party dress

ADVENTURE

66 I Rebecca Carrol 68 I Family Traditions

46 I Christmas in Bethlehem

70 I Tech the Halls

36 CATCHING FIRE 38 WINTERIZE!

Starting your own events

Our holiday tech guide for everyone

FRUIT OF THE VINE

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Letters

from our

Mayors

MAYOR DAVID COOK MANSFIELD

It’s been a busy year in Mansfield, a time marked by the start of several major projects that will enhance and transform our city.

From the groundbreaking for the StarCenter to the continued revitalization of Historic Downtown Mansfield, is growing, changing, improving and evolving before our eyes.

Yes, the road construction can be frustrating. No one likes to sit in traffic congestion, or navigate detours around construction. But our goal is “short-term pain, for long-term gain.”

We’ll soon see the completion of West Debbie Lane, and with that we will finally be able to move the large truck traffic from Main Street. Along U.S. 287 we saw improvements that will provide better access for residents to the retail corridors in our city. We’ll also celebrate the long-awaited completion of SH 360 South, a project more than 30 years in the making that will give our residents who work outside our city better access to the North Texas region and have a huge economic impact on our city.

But it wasn’t all about roads. In January we expect to open the first phase of the Pond Branch Trail in Historic Downtown

Mansfield, giving our residents another outstanding park feature and a unique element in our revitalization efforts. Also this year, Mansfield residents gathered at special events like Rockin’ 4th, Music Alley, Pickle Parade and the grand opening of the Chandler Park improvements, celebrating what truly makes our city the best place to live – the community spirit of its residents.

As we look forward to more celebrations and improvements across our city, we know that one thing that won’t change is the commitment we have to making our community the best it can be.

Lastly, please come out on Dec.16, to help Mansfield win the Salvation Army Mayoral Challenge…again, this year.

Merry Christmas

Mayor David L. Cook Mansfield

MAYOR RON JENSEN GRAND PRAIRIE

December is a big month for Grand Prairie! IKEA opens December 13, perfect for holiday shopping. By year end, EPIC WATERS year-round indoor water park opens. EPIC WATERS can host up to 2,500 guests and will have the largest retractable roof of any indoor water park in America; floats, rapids and the tallest indoor water slides in America; four unique water attractions never combined in North America; the first indoor dual flow rider for surfers and boogie boards in Texas; the longest indoor lazy river in the nation; a kid’s play zone; arcade; rentable cabanas; food, drink and adult beverages; and an outdoor wave pool with a 900 person capacity. You will be able to splash on the beach, bob in the water, float on a tube or just lounge on the deck…all year round. Annual passes are on sale now at epicwatersgp.com and make a great stocking stuffer.

Live Life Grand,

Ron Jensen Mayor, Grand Prairie

MAYOR JEFF WILLIAMS ARLINGTON

It’s the most wonderful time of the year here in Arlington. As holiday decorations go up and gifts begin accumulating under the tree, let’s remember our local merchants, artists, and crafts people. A recent study showed that, when you shop in your own city, $68 of every $100 spent stays in that city, supporting other businesses. It’s our local businesses, artists, and artisans that make Arlington different from every other city in the world. By supporting our local businesses this year with your holiday shopping, you ensure that uniqueness is preserved for years to come.

The calendar is exploding in December and I hope you’ll take advantage of many of the events scheduled around town. Be sure to visit Arlington-TX.gov for a look at our calendar of events. On our site, you’ll also find the Weather Bug for daily weather forecasts and more. And while you’re there, check out our pilot ride sharing program.

And as the year comes to an end, I want to give a special shout-out to Arlington Tomorrow Foundation who this year took in nearly $1.7 million in grant money to enhance our city services and support charitable causes such as Arlington Life Shelter, as they begin construction on a second facility to provide housing, a playground, employment services, and more to Arlington citizens in need. These dedicated folks are doing God’s work and we want them to know how much we appreciate them.

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SOCIAL CALENDAR NOW - JANUARY 7

DECEMBER 2 - 10

DECEMBER 2

DECEMBER 9 AND 16

MAGICAL WINTER LIGHTS

CHRISTMASPECTACULAR

HOMETOWN HOLIDAYS PARADE

MOBILE PET ADOPTION

Come see this spectacular, larger-than-life festival that presents a fresh multicultural take on the traditional light shows at Lone Star Park. There is a Chinese Acrobatic Performance included. Visit magicalwinterlights.com/dfw/ for show times. 1000 Lone Star Pkwy.

This holiday tradition returns! Enjoy an array of Texas talent in a musical experience. Enjoy sensational singers, dancers, secular and sacred Christmas songs, sparkling special effects, kick lines, breathtaking sets, a beautiful Nativity and a visit from Santa. Go to arlingtonmusichall.net for additional details. 224 N. Center St.

The events begin at 2pm and will loop Historic Downtown Mansfield. The parade is free to attend.

There will be treats to enjoy during the festivities.

Come early to see a live performance of Annie Jr. on Main St. For more information visitmansfieldtexas.com/event/106/hometown-holidays.

Adoptions will be at the Petsmart® in South Arlington, 203 E. I-20 (Arlington Highlands) 10:30am-3:30pm.

Grand Prairie

Arlington Music Hall

DECEMBER 1

DECEMBER 2

HOMETOWN HOLIDAYS AT CITY HALL

40TH ANNUAL ZETNICK WINTER RUN

A free fun filled family festival to kick off the December holidays. Ice sledding, bounce houses, food, petting zoo and Santa Claus!

Watch the lighting of the Christmas tree at the end of the evening along with fireworks.

5pm-9pm. 1200 E Broad St. Mansfield

DECEMBER 1 - 2

DECEMBER 9

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA Santa is stopping by for breakfast and other holiday fun activities. Make holiday crafts and enjoy tasty pancakes. $12/person. Registration required. Minimum one adult per child registration. 8am-11am. Call 817-561-2819. Cliff Nelson Rec Center, 4600 Bardin Rd. Arlington Parks and Recreation

Come and run for all ages at this special charitable benefit. There is a 1K Penguin Waddle for ages 11 and under, a 2-mile run/walk and a 10K run. Benefiting the Arlington-Mansfield Area YMCA. Check in and late registration is from 7:15am-8:15am. The race is being held at The Maverick Activities Center - UTA, 500 W. Nedderman Dr. For further information visit thezetnickarlingtonwinterrun.com/race-info/ Arlington

PET PHOTOS WITH SANTA

ENCHANT: THE WORLD’S LARGEST CHRISTMAS LIGHT MAZE AND MARKET

Create a “fur-rever” memory with your 4 legged family members and get their photo taken with Santa. Make your reservations now. The pet nights are Mondays from 5pm-8pm. Lower level center court at the mall. Visit theparksmallarlington.com/en/ events/pet-photos-with-santa-16835

Come see more than 2 acres of lighted Christmas Mazes and displays. While browsing through the vendor village enjoy food and drinks. Live entertainment. See Santa with the kids! Globe Life Park. Visit enchantchristmas.com for more information.

The Parks Mall at Arlington

Arlington

NOW - DECEMBER 23

NOW - JANUARY 7

PRAIRIE LIGHTS

HOLIDAY IN THE PARK

Enjoy the best holiday lights tradition! Go on a two mile drive featuring four million lights with custom displays and brand new attractions. Midway through the drive stop at the Holiday Village for concessions, carousel rides, a gift shop and photos with Santa. Lynn Creek Park, 5610 Lake Ridge Pkwy. Visit prairielights.org for information.

Holiday in the Park is back at Six Flags Over Texas! It’s the most magical time of the year filled with enchanting experiences that will help create those special family fun outings again and again. Our breathtaking winter wonderland features a variety of delightful and interactive activities to help capture the holiday spirit.

Grand Prairie Parks and Recreation

Arlington

DECEMBER 3 THE HOLIDAY HOME TOUR The MWC hosts The Holiday Home Tour.

This year there are 5 beautifully decorated homes. No advance tickets will be sold at the doors. There are 4 exciting raffle items!

All proceeds benefit women and children in need in the Mansfield area. For details visit themansfieldwomensclub.com.

Mansfield

DECEMBER 7

PLAID TIDINGS

THROWBACK THURSDAY, CLASSIC MOVIE

The holiday edition of Forever Plaid. Francis, Jinx, Smudge and Sparky are back to do their Christmas Special and aren’t sure why they have returned to earth. A phone call from the heavenly Rosemary Clooney lets them know they are needed to put some harmony in a discordant world. Suitable for all ages. Visit theatrearlington.org for details. 305 West Main St.

DECEMBER 1 - 20

GINGERBREAD WORKSHOP

Take a break and enjoy these holiday favorites – “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” musical, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” movie, “A Christmas Story” movie. Visit uptowntheatergp.com for dates and show times.

Uptown Theater

L I V I NGMAG A Z IN E . N E T

THE LIGHTS AT INTERLOCHEN Voted by the viewers of the Texas Country Report TV Show, come and see “Texas Best” Christmas Lights! Starting drive through entrance point is at the intersection of Randol Mill Rd and Westwood Dr. 7pm-11pm. Free! Visit arlington.org/event/ interlochen-lights-2017/19360/ Arlington

DECEMBER 26 - 29 JUNIOR HOLIDAY TENNIS CAMPS Arlington Tennis Center has camps that are designed for all levels of players ages 5-18. Camps are taught by USPTA certified professionals. For more information call 817-459-6163.

Arlington Parks and Recreation

DECEMBE 27 - 29 WINTER BREAK CAMP Spend the holidays learning the game of golf or perfecting your stroke. The camps are a great way for children to get outdoors and enjoy golf. Call the course to register or visit arlingtongolf.com to register. 10am-11:30am.

Ages 6-17.

Arlington Parks and Recreation

Grand Prairie

DECEMBER 16

VARIOUS HOLIDAY SHOWS

DECEMBER 15 - 25

Come and enjoy this holiday classic – It’s a Wonderful Life. 11am-1pm. The Main Library, 901 Conover Dr.

Theatre Arlington

Six Flags Over Texas

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WINTER CHILL AT VIRIDIAN The community is bringing in 120,000 pounds of snow for sliding, snowball fights and general play. The Texas Star trackless train will be on hand. Other seasonal activities are planned. Parkas are encouraged. 12 noon-3pm.

At the Viridian Lake Club. 1200 Viridian Park Lane. Free and open to the public. For more information call 817-767-4218.

Find a gift to make your Christmas memorable. Have your picture taken with Santa.

Enjoy goodies and much more at this craft fair. Free admission. Dec. 1, 12pm-7pm. Dec. 2, 9am-2pm. Dottie Lynn Rec Center. 3200 Norwood Lane.

DECEMBER 1 - 17 NOW - DECEMBER 31

DECEMBER 2

OLDE TOWN CHRISTMAS

Arlington Parks and Recreation

NOW - DECEMBER 11

Mansfield

Arlington

Make sugary shingles, snow frosted windows, and tons of icing to make your own creation. Bring your camera for pictures with Santa. 10am-12pm. $6 per person. Hugh Smith Rec Center, 1815 New York Ave. Register at naturallyfun.org with code 8960.

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DECEMBER 9 ARLINGTON HOLIDAY LIGHTS PARADE Bring your friends and family to the Downtown/University District to enjoy the Annual Holiday Lights Parade. Thousands of people will gather for the pageantry which ends with the lighting of the Christmas tree on the steps of City Hall. Don’t forget to bring your camera and take a picture with Santa after the parade at the Levitt Pavilion in Founders Plaza at 100 W. Abram St. Levitt Pavilion

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1 THROUGH SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10 ARLINGTON MUSIC HALL

DEC.

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th STAR WARS: THE LAST JEDI

EDITOR’S PICK

CHRISTMASPECTACULAR Arlington’s newest holiday tradition…

CHRISTMASPECTACULAR! Come watch sweet singers, dynamic dancers, a kick line of lovely ladies, sparkling sets, a 20-foot-tall Christmas tree and a “Sing-Along” with Santa! This year promises NEW SURPRISES to make the show even better than before! It’s a family-friendly “Feast” for the eyes, ears, and heart! If you missed it last year, don’t let this holiday season pass without bringing your loved ones to experience CHRISTMASPECTACULAR!

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2 @ 7:30 PM VERIZON THEATRE AT GRAND PRAIRIE

AMY GRANT & MICHALE W. SMITH THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7 @ 7:30 PM ARLINGTON MUSIC HALL

EDITOR’S PICK

DIR. RIAN JOHNSON (LOOPER) MARK HAMILL, DAISY RIDLEY

It’s nearly a yearly tradition, now—December means Star Wars. The direct follow-up to The Force Awakens, 2015’s ridiculously popular resurrection of the franchise, The Last Jedi is the eighth installment of the main storyline featuring original cast members. Expect to end up seeing this one with the family over the holidays, whether it was your idea or not.

DECEMBER 8

DECEMBER 20

THE SHAPE OF WATER

JUMANJI: WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE

DIR. GUILLERMO DEL TORO (PAN’S LABYRINTH) SALLY HAWKINS, MICHAEL SHANNON

E.T. meets romantic drama in del Toro’s magical fairytale set in 1960s Baltimore. The story follows mute janitor Elisa Esposito (Hawkins), who develops a relationship with an unusual amphibious humanoid sent to the research facility where she works.

Winner of the Golden Lion, an early favorite for Oscars season.

CRYSTAL GAYLE FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8 @ 7:30 PM VERIZON THEATRE AT GRAND PRAIRIE

KSCS COUNTRY FEST ‘17 WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 13 @ 7:30 PM ARLINGTON MUSIC HALL

THE TEXAS TENORS

DIR. JAKE KASDAN (WALK HARD) DWAYNE JOHNSON, JACK BLACK

File this one under “sequels we didn’t know we wanted”—the surprise 1995 hit known for its early showcases of computergenerated graphics and a memorable performance by Robin Williams heads back to the jungle 22 years later. Featuring a cast of comedians—Johnson and Black join Kevin Hart and Karen Gillian.

DECEMBER 22

PITCH PERFECT 3 DIR. TRISH SIE (STEP UP: ALL IN) ANNA KENDRICK, REBEL WILSON

The third (and possibly final) installment in the fan-favorite singing series. Most of the ensemble cast returns to reprise their roles as The Barden Bellas, a female a cappella group, who reunite for one final tour around Europe.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 15 @ 9 PM THE GREASE MONKEY ARLINGTON

LEGACY 4 SATURDAY, DECEMBER 16 @ 9 PM THE GREASE MONKEY ARLINGTON

WHITNYE RAQUEL SATURDAY, DECEMBER 16 @ 1:30 PM VERIZON THEATRE AT GRAND PRAIRIE

CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 20 @ 7:30 PM ARLINGTON MUSIC HALL

THE CHRIS MILYO BIG BAND FRIDAY, DECEMBER 29 @ 9 PM THE GREASE MONKEY ARLINGTON

DEVIN LEIGH

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EDITOR’S PICK

THE DEMON CROWN JAMES ROLLINS

The thirteenth(!) installment in Rollins’ popular Sigma Force series, which tracks a fictional division of the U.S. DARPA program. The team, led by Commander Grayson Pierce, investigates a strange species tied to an ancient secret buried more than a hundred years ago beneath the National Mall—and attempts to prevent an inevitable attack on home soil.

THE HOW NOT TO DIE COOKBOOK: 100 RECIPES TO HELP PREVENT AND REVERSE DISEASE

YEAR ONE: CHRONICLES OF THE ONE NORA ROBERTS

MICHAEL GREGER, MD

L I V I NGMAG A Z IN E . N E T

While we check the accuracy of event information prior to press, details can change. Please check with the venue before hitting the road! Lady Gaga performs in Los Angeles, California (2016), photo by Justin Higuchi/Flickr.com: CC BY 2.0. Still from the trailer for Star Wars: The Last Jedi (2017), Disney/Lucasfilm. Book cover from The Demon Crown by James Rollins (2017), William Morrow. All imagery is presented for non-commercial illustrative purposes.

BEST BETS: DECEMBER

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TALK OF THE TOWN

ARLINGTON/MANSFIELD

ON THE FARM

Although the threads of a city’s history tend to grow weaker overtime, it’s amazing how much the yesterdays of a century ago influence the todays. James Gibbins acquired more than two square miles of what is now north Arlington in 1863. The land passed to his son, Thomas Jefferson Gibbins and wife Martha, who grew the farm to 1359 acres.

In 1923, Martha deeded the Gibbins homestead to Ollie Gibbins Rose, her daughter, who was married to William H. Rose, Mayor of Arlington from 1919-1923. William and Ollie left it to their two daughters, Berta and Margaret. The names change with marriage over the years but the family is still the same. As time passed much of the land was sold, and even some donated. In 1976 Berta and Margaret donated 200 acres that makes up River Legacy Park as the family wanted to “leave something for every generation”. Today only a fraction of the historic Gibbins Homestead remains.

On the north side of the homestead lays an impressive equine estate, a state of the art 48 stall barn equipped with 225 X 100 indoor riding arena, indoor round pens, new white sand footing, office and so much more.

The arrival of Smallside Farm marks the first Hunter/Jumper training and breeding program at the historic Gibbins Homestead. Smallside Farm Owner, Jordan Mallard, says being at the Gibbins Homestead is “truly a dream come true.” Having a premier facility in the middle of the DFW metroplex will provide access to horses for thousands of people that would otherwise have to drive half an hour or more to reach such a training complex. The idea for Smallside Farm formed when Jordan realized the need for more competitive and higher quality ponies in Texas that could win on both Texas and national show circuits.

Jordan started riding at the age of 9 after a friend from elementary school invited her to go to her riding lessons. As a junior, Jordan often rode green, difficult or problem horses for her trainers and their clients.

In college she rode for Texas Tech University’s IHSA team where she was named MVP in 2007-2008 Season. While at Tech she earned a Bachelors in Animal Science with a minor in Equine Studies-Business Cum Laude. In 2009 she officially started her equine training business and never looked back. She has sold ponies to top trainers and show homes all across the country, many of them going on to win top honors at Pony Finals. She is passionate about developing riders and horses to their full potential and being influential in young lives.

In a busy world full of electronics and screen time, Smallside Farm hopes to provide children and adults with a fun and rewarding riding experience. A place to get away from the daily hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy nature right here in your own backyard all within city limits. Riders will learn horsemanship, sportsmanship, and have the opportunity to show across the country on the exclusive USEF ‘A’ Circuit.

Smallside Farm offers year-round english riding lessons for young children (starting at 4 years old) through advanced riders of all ages! For more information about riding lessons or horse camps please visit www. smallsidefarm.com or email us at info@smallsidefarm.com. www.smallsidefarm.com info@smallsidefarm.com | 2700 N Cooper Street | Arlington, TX 76006

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ON THE COVER

BEHIND THE SCENES WITH

LESLIE HALL & THE ZIGZAG STRIPE

BY MEREDITH KNIGHT PHOTOS BY DEREK GOWER

Who doesn’t love a great success story. Here in Mansfield we have our own homegrown entrepreneur made good in the family-owned and operated private label clothing line, The ZigZag Stripe. Founder Leslie Hall remembers too well the days when clothing racks filled her home and she was tripping over buckets of merchandise, waiting to be shipped.

“Sometimes I miss the simplicity of those days,” she admitted. “But I’ve been so blessed to not only see my idea grown into a thriving business but to be able to spend my days working (and playing) with my family. I want everyone to know, if I can achieve my dream, so can you.”

Leslie admits the family hijinks can get crazy. “We play pranks on each other and steal food from each other’s refrigerators,” she said. “The office environment is relaxed, to say the least. My 11-monthold niece crawls from office to office.

Mine and my parent’s dogs are here most days looking for treats or someone to hold them, as much as the baby does. On Fridays we either bust out the grill to cook everyone lunch or we order in, so we can have one meal a week together.”

WHAT ARE YOUR CAN’T-LIVE-WITHOUT” WARDROBE PIECES? “I love our jeggings! Looks like jeans but wears like a legging. They can be paired with almost anything.”

CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR STYLE AND WHAT INSPIRES YOU? “If it’s black or red, I own it. If it’s black and red, well that’s even better. Give me a t-shirt and a cardigan.

Throw on my chucks and I’m ready to go. I want to be fashionable yet comfortable. I have to be able to go from the office to a ballgame. That’s what our brand is all about.”

Amid all the fun, there’s plenty business getting done, as The ZigZag Stripe has grown from a fledgling cottage industry to a booming business with a substantial online presence, as well as a thriving brick-andmortar stores. Still, nothing goes out with a ZigZag Stripe label that didn’t begin and end with Leslie. “I work closely with our sew rooms,” she said. “They’ve learned what I like. I choose the fabrics I want, from 1,000s of samples. Then, they do a great job of taking my verbal ideas and creating style samples. From there, I tweak the samples by changing a neckline, adding a ruffle or length of the sleeve, etc. Sometimes, I throw out the whole thing and start over.”

But through all the success, Leslie has remained true to her roots in Mansfield. “I’ve lived here, all my life,” she said. “Some of my first customers were people I’d known for years. They know how normal my life is. I’m a daughter, sister, wife, mom, sister-in-law, and aunt who went after her dream. My customers see me at ballgames, karate, Target, the grocery store, and local restaurants. I’m proof that by the grace of GOD, hard work, a lot of tears and sweat, you can do it.”

122 North Main Street Mansfield, Texas 76063 (682) 704-0720 ZigZagStripe.com

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Do You Hear the Cry of the Nations?

FRUIT OF THE VINE

BY LISA JENKINS-MOORE

Jason’s international itinerary through Joshua Nations: • China/Myanmar border: December 2017 • Itineration in the USA: January • East Africa: February • Niger, West Africa: March • Brazil: June You can give a gift this Christmas and beyond that will impact the Nations. Consider the following opportunities:

• For $10 you can provide the printed curriculum in a developing nation for 1 year of study.

• For $20 you can provide the printed curriculum in a developing nation for 2 years of study.

• Orality Based Training for leaders who reach the illiterate and oral learning community is not reliant on printed curriculum, Jason and his wife Anna have always had a heart for missions, but it is dependent upon a qualified Joshua Nations team and once they recognized a need, set out to meet it. They member to conduct several days of intense training on-site. wholeheartedly embrace Psalm 2:8, which states, “Ask of Me, and Training events range from $500 to $2,000 based on location I will give You The nations for Your inheritance, And the ends and number of participants. of the earth for Your possession.” The Hollands, along with their • Literate Based Training for indigenous leaders is quickly three sons, are asking, and their request is being granted, but they need support from volunteers, those called to missions, and others scalable as the team uses a train the trainer model. Training events typically range from $500 to $2,000 based on location and who can lend a hand financially. Joshua Nations is not limited on number of participants. Each participant/leader receives all the vision or passion and is seeking to fill gaps other organizations tools and resources to launch a Bible Training Center that will overlook. effectively equip anywhere from 10 to 100 emerging leaders in a Jason says, “Our ministry is developing tools to impact people in two year program. the most difficult places on Earth. Seven out of ten people are oral • One time and recurring gifts can be made online at preference learners, and most of the unreached people groups JoshuaNations.org/donate or can be mailed to: that remain are primarily oral learners and many are illiterate.

Joshua Nations These people need to be reached with the Gospel before a written PO Box 745728 language is produced and before their people group prefers Arvada, CO 80006 literate learning. With this in mind, we are developing “stories” Please visit JoshuaNations.org for more information on that communicate from Creation to Jesus, Evangelism, Church how to get involved.

Planting, and Missions. Just because a person is not literate does not mean they cannot be effective for the Lord. In fact, it is To contact Lisa or follow her blog, quite likely that several of the apostles were not literate. Look visit LisaJenkinsMoore.com or connect on what they did in bringing transformation to the world! With an Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ljenkinsmoore intentional progression through “stories” and guided learning we see God move in a powerful way.”

The Hollands have traveled and ministered in over 60 nations for the past 20 years. They both have a heart to bring hope to the hopeless, peace to the hurting, and encouragement to the body of Christ around the world. They are the proud parents of three sons—Amos, who was born in February 2016, Judah, who is eight years old, and Marcus, who is 22 years old. Jason has written numerous resources that are used in an international training context for the purpose of equipping Christian leaders, and serves as an itinerate speaker and guest teacher at various churches throughout the USA and internationally.

T

he season for remembrance, reflection, and renewal is upon us as we celebrate the birth of our Savior and look forward with vision into the New Year.

Christmas lights and sentimental music tug our heart strings as scents of fir and spice fill the air. Nostalgia brings sweet sorrow as we enjoy the presence of our loved ones and mourn for those no longer with us. Blazing fires, decorated trees, and gifts galore adorn our homes—and sadly, we sometimes forget the less fortunate.

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While opportunities for service exist in our own communities, those who long to partner with ministries serving other nations need look no further than the ministry of Joshua Nations.

Founded in 2007, Joshua Nations was begun with the mission to help leaders in other countries learn how to plant and grow churches as part of fulfillment of the Great Commission. Jason Holland, the Director of Operations of Joshua Nations explains, “Through the Holy Spirit, we strive to equip and train the next generation of church leaders by launching church based Bible schools, training church planters, and helping mobilize the body of Christ to reach the unreached. As of October 2017, through our Bible schools 150,645 believers have been trained. Almost 7,000 church based Bible schools have been launched in 52 nations.

Each year we are adding new languages to reach more people.”

L I V I NGMAG A Z IN E . N E T

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SPOTLIGHT

Office Equity Solutions Invites you to Join the Tenants at its Viridian Professional Center

Developing Wealth through Building Ownership Is Easier Than You Think! Let Office Equity Solutions Show You How. HELPING MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS AND BUSINESS OWNERS INVEST IN THEMSELVES AND THE PROPERTY THEY USE

G

BY ANNETTE BROOKS

iven a choice, would you rather pay a landlord or build your own wealth through property ownership? Medical and business professionals often believe that owning their office space isn’t attainable, or that it’s too much hassle, until they explore options with Office Equity Solutions.

We recently spoke with Office Equity Solutions, including CEO Jim Lancaster, to discuss the advantages they offer to medical professionals. Today, more physicians, dentists, multi-provider practices, imaging, rehabilitation, dialysis and ambulatory surgery centers, and other business owners reap the myriad benefits of commercial property ownership thanks to Office Equity Solutions.

HOW DO YOU SUM UP WHAT OFFICE EQUITY SOLUTIONS PROVIDES? We specialize in developing commercial properties for medical and professional offices in rapidly expanding markets. Our turn-key services include development solutions for individuals and companies looking to own or lease a commercial property within an OES development, as well as customized development management services for those who want us to develop their land at their location. In addition, we provide full-service property management.

services—while we do what we excel in.

WHAT’S ONE OF THE MAIN REASONS MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS LEASE OFFICE SPACE VERSUS BUY, AND HOW DO YOU HELP THEM BECOME OWNERS? It usually makes financial sense for medical professionals and business owners to own their office space, but they don’t have the time to sift through the details. We educate our clients and show them how ownership can be advantageous and attainable. We introduce them to other professionals, such as CPAs, who show them how to maximize tax advantages through ownership, and we leverage our relationships with local banks that specialize in business lending solutions to help our clients obtain the best terms.

HOW DO YOU EDUCATE AND COACH YOUR CLIENTS TO SIMPLIFY THE OFFICE OWNERSHIP PROCESS? In addition to one-on-one meetings,

we provide informative videos about our developments and we offer educational seminars. The seminars, like the one we’re hosting on January 17, 2018, include CPAs, bankers that specialize in real estate lending, and more.

WHAT ELSE DO YOU WANT TO SAY TO PHYSICIANS AND BUSINESS OWNERS INTERESTED IN OFFICE OWNERSHIP? People often ask us, “Where were you five years ago when I was starting/expanding my practice?”

They ask this because they now understand they have lost five years of ownership benefits, and that’s lost forever. This is why Office Equity Solutions has developed “SMART START” Building Ownership. Let us help you invest in yourself!

Whether you’re looking to open your first location, need a larger space to accommodate your growing needs, or look to open an additional location, call Office Equity Solutions for more information and to schedule a consultation.

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L I V I NGMAG A Z IN E . N E T

Additional properties are also available in other, growing markets.

Physicians and Business Owners, Mark Your Calendar!

What: Office Equity Solutions’ Wealth Building and Management Seminar When: January 17, 2018 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Where: The Bowden Center in Keller, Texas Please call (817) 416-3981 to RSVP Meet existing clients who have benefited from office ownership. Talk with a diverse group of professionals that can help you attain your financial goals. Food and beverages will be served.

Why pay a Landlord when you can pay yourself?

Twenty minutes of your time may save you millions!

Office Equity Solutions: • Has been serving DFW for over 30 years, developing medical and professional office facilities • Company hallmark is “SMART START” to Building Ownership.

• Helps doctors and business owners become their own landlord • Has helped hundreds of business owners: • Invest in themselves through building ownership • Build wealth through real estate investment • Achieve serious tax benefits • Enjoy a sound retirement investment • Avoid landlord hassles

WHAT MAKES YOUR COMPANY SUCCESSFUL, AND IN TURN, HELPS YOUR CLIENTS ACHIEVE THEIR FINANCIAL GOALS? As a recognized industry leader with over three decades of experience and indepth knowledge of local North Texas markets, we identify the best locations with a built-in, growing demand for medical and business services, plan the center, and complete construction. Then we offer both ownership and lease options, as well as comprehensive property management services to help our clients build wealth.

WHAT PROPERTY MANAGEMENT SERVICES DO YOU PROVIDE THAT OTHERS TYPICALLY DO NOT OFFER? In addition to traditional property management services such as building maintenance, landscaping, and engineering management, we offer value-added services like accounting, financial reporting, and tax preparation and filing—to name a few.

Our goal is to help our owners do what they do best—provide medical and business

Situated just minutes from Highway 360, I-20, 183, and I-30, Office Equity Solutions’ Viridian Professional Center is in a prime location with unlimited growth potential. It serves the vibrant upscale residential neighborhood of Viridian--a master-planned, classy community, the city of Arlington, Hurst, Euless, Bedford, and beyond. The Viridian professional center will include multiple single and multiple professional, medical, and retail spaces in a beautiful, high-end business complex.

Office Equity Solutions Headquarters 365 Miron Drive Suite A Southlake, Texas 76092 (817) 416-3981 OfficeEquitySolutions.com

D E C E M B E R 2 01 7

Like home ownership, owning the facilities you work in every day offers safe, stable, secure returns. Select your own location or allow Office Equity Solutions to show you one of their proven developments in high-growth markets. Contact Office Equity Solutions, Jim Lancaster, CEO, at (817) 416-3981.

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SPOTLIGHT into my classroom,” she said. “This keeps things fun and exciting for the kids by keeping them fresh and exciting for me. How lucky am I to get hugs every day from young children; to make a difference in the lives of four and five-year-olds; to hear ‘I love you Miss Mary’; to see the triumphant look on their faces, when they tell me, ‘I did it!’?”

The environment is active and vibrant which offers room for a child to learn in a way they enjoy. Education here is not one-size-fits-all. Our goal is to provide educational options to create the most fitting path for each unique child; to ensure they’re prepared for elementary school— and for life. A child’s happiness and knowledge are always the focus.”

The most important tools Mary has in her tool box, as a teacher, are flexibility, dedication, and patience. “When teaching young children, there will always be unexpected turns,” she said. “Experience has taught me to be okay, on the days my lesson plan goes out the window. Because my students have varying developmental skills, patients is key; patience in the classroom and in life. And I’m committed to making my classroom a place that’s as memorable and fun for my students as it is safe and nurturing.”

Mary and other Children’s Courtyard teachers address the specific needs of children based not only on age, but on individual pace of development. Their curriculum has been designed to ensure that all children reach—and master—significant milestones and indicators. Children’s Courtyard features large, window-filled classrooms, age-appropriate equipment, a dynamic, vibrant, active environment, developmentally-appropriate activities for each age group, the latest classroom technology, and activities that stimulate varied learning styles.

Of course, a stellar teacher like Mary needs a stellar preschool program behind her. Children’s Courtyard is just that. “I’m blessed to be teaching at Children’s Courtyard which inspires inquisitiveness and sparks a love of learning in students.

Teachers Making A Difference

AT THE CHILDREN’S COURTYARD

Find out more or schedule a school tour at ChildrensCourtyard.com or (817)-478-7733.

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“I CAN ENCOURAGE AND SUPPORT YOUNG STUDENTS BY PROVIDING A SAFE, SECURE, AND LOVING ENVIRONMENT TO EDUCATE THEM EMOTIONALLY, SOCIALLY, AND COGNITIVELY; TO INSTILL IN EACH CHILD A LIFETIME LOVE OF LEARNING.”

BY MEREDITH KNIGHT PHOTO BY LAUREN MADEAN

Maybe it’s gut instinct. Maybe it’s intuition. But as parents tour a school, looking for the perfect environment in which to leave their most prized possession – their child— something inside them often screams a big “yes” or “no,” even if they can’t quite put their finger on why. When they encounter a teacher like Mary Rose, that “inner parent” senses they’ve found someone who’ll love their child for who they are and empower them to achieve their full potential.

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“Being a Pre-K teacher allows me to be at the beginning of a child’s academic journey,” Mary said. “I can encourage and support young students by providing a safe, secure, and loving environment to educate them emotionally, socially, and cognitively; to instill in each child a lifetime love of learning.”

Even after over twenty years in the classroom, Mary’s still big on continuing education. “Year after year, I try to expose myself to fresh tactics, ideas, and concepts to bring L I V I NGMAG A Z IN E . N E T

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WELLNESS

ACHY BREAKY

BODY?

Obalon Weight Loss BalloonsHelping You Live the

COMMON SYMPTOMS AND POSSIBLE CAUSES

BY ANNETTE BROOKS

Aches, pains, cramps, and creaks… from athletes, weekend warriors, and busy parents to sedentary coach potatoes and the otherwise unmotivated, everyone experiences pain now and then. Bodily pains can be an underworked or overworked body’s way of saying “Hey, I need some help here!” or “I’m sick!” For your peace of mind—and peace of body as well—don’t rely on “Dr. Google” to help you perform a DIY diagnosis and treatment. Visit your physician when you experience persistent or severe aches and pains, or that cause concern for any reason.

A FEW COMMON CULPRITS ARTHRITIS Over 54 million people in the United States have arthritis. Lifestyle,

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nutrition, and genetics play a part in where arthritis occurs and when. If you suspect you have arthritis of any kind, proper medical treatment can reduce further joint damage as well as relieve pain.

There are three main types of arthritis. Osteoarthritis, a degenerative disease, occurs when the degradation of cartilage surrounding the joints causes the joint to become inflamed. Symptoms include pain, stiffness, limited mobility surrounding the joint, redness, and swelling.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by chronic joint pain and more. RA usually (but not always) involves multiple joints on both sides of the body. It can also affect organs, including the heart, lungs, and eyes.

Common symptoms include fatigue and joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and redness. Firm, subcutaneous nodules may form on or near the base of the arthritic joint as well.

Psoriatic arthritis is an inflammation of the skin (psoriasis) and joints (arthritis). It can swell the fingers and toes, and those who have it may have fingernails that are pitted or discolored, too. In some people, only one joint or a few joints are affected.

MUSCLE INFLAMMATION (MYOSITIS) Symptoms include weakness, swelling, and pain. Causes include infection, injury, autoimmune conditions, and drug side effects.

Overuse is also a common trigger of temporary muscle inflammation, which can often be righted by giving it a break until the pain disappears.

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Rediscover Your Beauty

WELLNESS However, injury, infections, and drug reactions can lead to rhabdomyolysis, a serious form of inflammation caused by the rapid destruction of skeletal muscle.

Be aware that statin medications (cholesterol-lowering drugs) can cause rhabdomyolysis. So many people take statins that it’s important to be aware of the risk.

If you begin taking a statin or are taking one and pervasive muscle aches start to occur, contact your physician immediately.

MUSCLE CRAMPS Everyone suffers from an occasional cramp, especially in the calves. Although usually harmless, cramps may be a symptom of dehydration, mineral depletion (too little potassium, calcium or magnesium in your diet, or depletion caused by diuretic medications), or nervous system dysfunction. Age also plays a role. As we lose muscle mass, the remaining muscle can get overstressed more easily, and therefore cramp up.

STINGERS OR BURNERS Have you ever turned your neck and experienced a quick jolt of pain and heat? Stingers affect the nerves of the neck and shoulders when the two turn the opposite way, or when the body is jarred, often a result of sports activities or heavy labor. An “electrical” jolt of pain and intense heat radiates down the neck and shoulders when a stinger occurs.

Sometimes this pain can creep all the way down the arm resulting in numbness. Typical treatment includes icing the affected area and some good old-fashioned rest.

In addition to prolonged stinger pain, if you have any symptoms such as dizziness or loss of sensation in arms or legs, seek medical attention right away.

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THE FOODINFLAMMATION CONNECTION A diet rich in foods that help your body fight inflammation never hurts (pun intended!), and they are usually heart-healthy, too. Dark leafy greens such as kale, chard, and spinach contain significant concentrations of vitamins and other nutrients that may help reduce chronic inflammation.

Want a little something sweet? Blueberries and strawberries are high in antioxidants and great for a healthy and happy body.

Bromelain, an enzyme abundant in pineapple, is considered a potent antiinflammatory agent.

Other foods are considered prime suspects for producing or assisting inflammation, and they are typically bad for your overall health. If you’re looking to live healthier, reduce inflammation, and take better care of your body, try cutting down on red meats, refined carbohydrates (cookies, white breads, pastas), fried foods, and sugars.

MEDI SPA SERVICES: WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR Self-treating a temporarily stiff back due to a bad night’s rest or “sitting funny” is one thing, but it’s wise to visit a medical professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment, especially when pain— whether previously diagnosed or not—starts to become chronic or suddenly turns worse. Pain can be an indicator of serious health problems—some of which are outlined in this article—and may even be a sign of cancer. Everyone has their own level of pain tolerance, but when pain lasts longer than expected or starts to affect your quality of life, get it checked by your doctor. Depending on the cause of your pain, treatments not only can relieve symptoms but minimize the risk of further damage.

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AESTHETICS

REVITALIZED ROUTINE

CREATING A SUSTAINABLE SCHEDULE ISN’T JUST ABOUT GOALS BY: AUDREY ASHE

In an age where people put their best face forward on social media and the media itself tends to paint a façade of perfection, it’s easy to become fixated on the idea of difficult if not impossible to obtain appearances. Think of the last time you decided to insert a new beauty routine into your day. Does this sound somewhat familiar? “I’m going to begin a 12-step skincare program so I can minimize this imperfection, obliterate this one, and also this one, oh, and maybe this one, too!” Or how about, “I’m going work out at least an hour every day and drop at least three sizes in six weeks!”

Focusing on future perfection instead of taking small, manageable steps toward improvement is a slippery slope. It’s easy to fall victim to this kind of thinking, and it deals a heavy blow when expectations aren’t met. I once went out and bought a few cute size zero outfits to enjoy once I met the strict fitness and dietary goals developed in my head. I viewed it as a carrot at the end of the stick, but my overly ambitious plans ended up being

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more damaging and anxiety inducing than helpful.

Instead of starting new health and beauty routines with rigid, linear goals, lay a foundation for becoming the person you want to be, then take it one day at a time. Be gentle on yourself and begin your journey with things you can easily incorporate into your daily life. As time goes on, you’ll find it increasingly easier to add steps to your routine as needed.

Start with a few simple adjustments that can boost your beauty and form the building blocks of sustainable habits that fit into your lifestyle.

1. Wear SPF every day, even in the winter, on cloudy days, when you’re indoors or driving in your car. Harmful UV rays cause premature aging, skin cancer, sun or “liver” spots, and more.

2. Limit alcohol consumption. It might be tempting to unwind with a couple glasses of wine, but limit yourself to one glass or less. Alcohol is loaded with empty calories and is majorly

dehydrating. When your skin becomes too dry, it’s more likely to wrinkle and make you appear older than you are.

3. Eat the rainbow! It sounds fun—and fresh, colorful fruits and vegetables are packed with vitamins and nutrients to fuel a healthy body. Begin by adding a couple of fresh fruits and veggies daily to your diet. Grow into the rainbow and watch your complexion take on a more radiant glow.

4. Exercise daily. By increasing blood flow, exercise helps nourish skin cells and keep them vital. Start by taking little steps. Try stretching in the morning, going on a walk around your neighborhood, or taking the stairs instead of the elevator.

5. Hydrate your skin. While cranking up the heat or lighting the fireplace keeps you toasty and warm, they suck moisture out of the air, which can lead to dry skin. Treat your skin to a weekly hydrating mask to help compensate for the moisture winter strips away.

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AESTHETICS

Makeup Contouring and Strobing

Specializing in redoing kitchen and bathroom cabinets, updating fireplaces, murals, painting, refinishing furniture, and design and decorating help.

BY: MIMI GREENWOOD KNIGHT

Ever wonder how Hollywood starlets manage to look dewy fresh, even as they age? Make no mistake, many of those youthful, glowing faces are curtesy of a team of skilled plastic surgeons. But glamorous celebs also know—or know someone who knows—how to keep their faces looking like they’re in the spotlight, even when they’re not, with the skillful application of makeup, through the latest contouring and strobing techniques.

Different stars prefer different techniques to illuminate their complexion. (The Kardashian favor contouring while Jennifer Lopez has been rocking the strobing look since the ‘90s.) But you don’t have to be an A-list celebrity to employ these clever techniques that’ll accentuate the positive and camouflage the rest, this holiday season.

CONTOURING Makeup contouring combines a mix of darker skin-tone shades to chisel your features with lighter shades, for highlighting and making your cheekbones pop. Contouring can give shape to an area of the face and enhance your natural facial structure, through subtle makeup. The secret is slightly varying shades that create the illusion of imperceptibly defined peaks and valleys on your face.

Start with a small, fluffy eyeshadow brush for precision and

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place a darker shade along the side of your temples, under your cheekbones, and under your jawline. Now, use a regular foundation brush or a damp egg sponge to blend, so there’s no demarcation lines. Then add a bright colored blush to the apples of cheeks and highlighter along your forehead, cheekbones, and bridge of your nose. Just remember, less is more.

STROBING Makeup strobing only uses light to enhance your face, no bronzer or dark powders. Basically, you’re taking your usual contouring steps, but not using the darker colors to carve out your features, instead heading straight for the highlighter stick. The idea is to use illuminating products to mimic what it’s like to be under bright, flattering lights.

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Start with a moisturized face. Then mix in a bit of luminizer with your foundation to start the glow. Use highlighter to enhance or lighten across your temples, cheekbones, and bridge of your nose. (Skip the forehead, if you tend to get oily.)

If you’re lighter skinned, opt for champagne colors. Darker skin tones look stunning in more golden hues.

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Whichever technique you choose, your result should be dewy and fresh, like you’re being lit-up from within. Aim to look healthy and well-rested, not “made-up”.

L I V I NGMAG A Z IN E . N E T

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HOMESTEAD

Warmest Greetings from Our Family to Yours!

NATURAL NICETIES FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON

BY AUDREY ASHE

America’s Neighboorhood Plumber

STOVETOP SPICE HOLIDAY POTPOURRI

Call the Plumbing Expert You’ve Trusted for Years

1. Fill a small or mid-sized pot about three fourths of the way full of water.

They say that of the five senses, the one most connected to memory is the sense of smell. A whiff of lavender and spices, for instance, might whisk you back to your grandmother’s house during the holidays. That nostalgic scent could have very well been a blend of her potpourri—and maybe some of that delicious home cooking! My childhood potpourri scent memories include those connected to herbal sachets my mother kept in dresser drawers.

Where did our fascination with potpourri come from, and why has its popularity dwindled? The rise of manmade, chemical-laden air fresheners and scented plug-ins has done things no favors. Yet before these modern products became available, people throughout history loved fresh-smelling things and spaces. During the middle ages when bathing and personal hygiene were… less than great, fragrant dried herbs were carried in small sachets or jewelry. Herbs were also periodically sprinkled over the straw floors of

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homes to add a hint of freshness.

During the 17th century, the term potpourri was coined and the art of crafting blends as decoration helped it become a household staple.

Originating in France, as many fashionable things do, the potpourri craze took the world by storm. To this day, potpourri is fondly revered and evokes a certain je ne sais quoi.

CREATE YOUR OWN POTPOURRI AND PERSONAL SCENT PROFILES Whether you want to fill your home with natural scents or wish to step back in time and feel like a French courtier for a day, try your hand at making potpourri. It’s easy, and with a wide assortment of dried flowers, herbs, and spices that can be mixed and matched, the creation of potpourri truly becomes an art.

Experiment with the scents you like.

You never know what tantalizing combination you’ll come up with!

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aromatic flowers make up the base of most potpourri recipes. Go to your local florist—or your yard, if you’re the gardening type—and have fun choosing the flowers you like best. Herbs add interesting notes, too. Some popular ones include rosemary, bay, mint, and chamomile.

Although they are entirely optional, natural essential oils will make your potpourri blends more full-bodied and stronger. Just add a few drops of any scent of your choosing, from lemon verbena to patchouli or pine.

Lastly, citrus fruit peels, which add to the appearance and fragrance of potpourri, are perfect for brightening up a blend.

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HOMESTEAD

CATCHING

FIRE

MOST OF US HAVE A TRUSTY FIREPLACE, BUT HOW MANY OF US USE THEM? BY: BRANDON DAIKER

A roaring fire in the fireplace is a definite crowd-pleaser around Christmas time. But if you haven’t used it in a while (or ever), the thought of firing it up might have you seeing smoke. Easy enough—just check out some of these simple pointers before you kick back and relax.

If it’s been a while since you had a chimney inspection, it probably wouldn’t hurt to contact your local chimney sweep. They can clean out the creosote (a sort of deposit left by wood burning over time), check for any structural issues, look for leaks, and make sure all the mortar work is nice and tight so you don’t have to worry next time you fire it up.

(If you’re not sure how to use it, they can probably even give you a few pointers.)

Though it goes without saying, where there’s fire, there’s smoke. For your own safety, make sure you have a working smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector before you get a fire going.

Probably best to have a fire extinguisher on hand too, just in case something unexpected happens.

Don’t fear the firelog! While you might feel like it’s cheating, modern firelogs are usually made from recycled or waste materials, burn cleaner than

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actual wood, leave very little ash, and are super easy to start and keep going. You can even use them (or the smaller fire-starter versions) to ignite regular firewood for maximum simplicity.

Make sure you’re using “seasoned” wood—which means it’s been dried out for six to twelve months. Wood that’s been harvested too recently will release steam and won’t catch fire easily.

Always keep the damper open when you’ve got a fire going, and don’t close it until all the embers are fully extinguished.

Smoke rolling back into the house as the fire dies down?

Though you might be tempted to open a door or window, it just gives another place for the smoke to try to escape to and will make things even worse.

Make sure all your doors and windows are closed, and double check that your central air or heating is off too, as it’ll pull air out of the house (and out of the fireplace).

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HOMESTEAD WINTER TIPS TO SAVE STRESS AND EXPENSE:

Winterize!

• Drain garden hoses and irrigation equipment.

• Add insulation over heated areas of the home to conserve energy.

• Reverse ceiling fan direction to circulate heat.

• Change HVAC filters monthly to improve air quality and save energy.

• Insulate water pipes in unheated areas.

• Lift wiper blades away from windshield, and place socks over them to prevent freezing to the glass.

• Use gallon size plastic bags over car mirrors to keep them ice-free.

• Check auto battery cables and connections for cracks and frayed wiring.

Check websites such as AngiesList.com and HomeAdvisor.com for recommendations and reviews for reputable local companies that offer energy audits. These services can show you how to save real money while helping the environment by making your home more energy efficient.

PREPARE YOUR HOME AND CAR FOR THE COLD

RECOMMENDED VEHICLE EMERGENCY KIT ITEMS: • Food and water. Think high-calorie,

BY STEVE HOWELL

Winter is on the way, and with it the possibility of freezing temperatures, ice, and possibly snow—all of which bring specific hazards worth considering. With a bit of thought and preparation, this could be your safest and most comfortable winter ever. You might even save a few bucks.

Your home offers many opportunities to upgrade safety features, increase comfort, and save money on monthly utility bills. This is especially true if you live in an older home built before modern energy efficiency standards became commonplace in the building industry.

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Let’s start by discussing the exterior of your home. What’s between you and the chill outside? If you live in a house that was built more than ten or so years ago, you may have noticed some drafty areas, especially near outer doors and windows. You may even have seen a bit of daylight showing between a door and a jamb.

Unless you live in a recently constructed home, chances are that your home would benefit from a window and door upgrade. Improving outer entryways with sturdier, wellinsulated doors not only improves energy efficiency, it raises the security level of your home. Double-pane

non-perishable food that can be eaten cold such as canned meat and fruit, chocolate, or granola.

• Flashlight and batteries!

• A compact emergency radio that charges via solar or dynamo crank.

• If your vehicle has the space, a small propane camp stove. If you’re short on storage space, pack candles.

• Kitchen matches. Protect from humidity in a watertight container. to go slow. Start with just a couple of drops of oil per ounce of carrier. Add more as needed.

L I V I NGMAG A Z IN E . N E T

windows can protect against flying objects traveling up to around 35 miles per hour and improve the overall stability of a structure. Our area isn’t often subjected to winter storms as severe as those in other parts of the country, but window and door improvements also serve to harden your home against the ever-present threat of tornadoes.

For many of us, our car or truck is the most expensive single item we own, second only to our home. Yet many choose to use the garage to store… everything but the vehicles. Did you D E C E M B E R 2 01 7

know some insurance companies allow a discount for parking inside a garage?

Parking inside protects your vehicle from damage, ice, and snow, and lets you more comfortably enter and exit in inclement weather.

How are your tires? Try the penny test.

Hold a penny by the bottom, so Abe’s head is exposed. Insert Mr. Lincoln’s head into the groove between tire treads. If any portion of his head is obscured by the tread of your tire, the tread is good. If not, it’s hard to recommend driving in snow—and it’s probably time to replace your tires.

Consider carrying an emergency kit in your vehicle. Ask yourself what you’d need if you broke down on a cold day in the middle of nowhere. What you might need depends on where you are, weather conditions, and how long you’ll be stranded, but some items are no-brainers, such as the basics of light, food, water, and keeping warm.

Regular maintenance and a little forethought go a long way toward being prepared for winter at home or in your vehicle. Good luck, and stay warm.

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EXCELLENCE IN

SAT AND PSAT—WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

EDUCATION

• The SAT is a standardized test created by the College Board. It’s the entrance exam used by most colleges and universities to make admissions decisions with the goal of providing colleges with one common data point to compare all applicants.

• The PSAT is a test taken while a child is still in high school (or as early as 8th grade) to highlight the skills a student hasn’t mastered yet, so they can work on them before tackling the SAT. The PSAT also gives students a chance to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship.

HELPING YOUR KIDS PUT THEIR BEST FEET FORWARD IN SCHOOL

SOME BENEFITS OF PUBLIC SCHOOL EDUCATION

BY MIMI GREENWOOD KNIGHT

As parents we expect our kid’s school to set them on a path toward lifelong learning, a prestigious college education, a successful career, and a satisfying life. We want a place where they feel safe and nurtured and encouraged to be the best they can be, academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually. That’s a tall order to fill. Yet all your searching will pay rich dividends once you find the right fit.

SOME GOOD PLACES TO START: • Let your Facebook friends know if you’re school shopping. Ask them to share experiences or insights.

• The broader socioeconomic mix of a public school can prepare children for the global community.

SOME BENEFITS OF PRIVATE SCHOOL EDUCATION

• Private schools traditionally offer smaller classes, giving kids more one-on-one time with teachers.

• They’re historically college-preparatory with an emphasis on STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math).

• By supporting a public school, parents can do their part to ensure a decent education for every American child.

HOW TO BEGIN AND MAINTAIN A GOOD RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR CHILD’S TEACHER

• Use the American School Directory at ASD.com to contact school you’re considering.

• Discipline problems and distractions are minimized in a private school, where repeat offenders can be expelled.

• Reach out to your child’s teacher and let them know you’re on their team.

• Request a school catalog and other printed material.

• Private schools are traditionally smaller and more personal with more hands-on parent involvement.

• Keep them updated about any changes in your child’s life that might affect them at school.

SOME BENEFITS OF PAROCHIAL SCHOOLS

• Participate in school events as often as possible.

• Visit the school’s website to peruse newsletters, PTA meeting notes, and info on awards or certifications the school has received.

• Visit in person to assess the school’s climate and values.

• View them on GreatSchools.com or SchoolDigger. com to read parent reviews, find student/teacher ratios, extra-curriculum offerings, and other helpful information.

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• Public schools historically have the ability to fund programs for students with special needs.

• Share positive feedback you hear about the teacher from your child.

• A family’s faith and values can be reinforced.

• Tuition is often on a sliding scale, helping exposing children to peers from “all walks of life.”

• Some parochial schools are single-sex and some parents feel their child learns better in this environment L I V I NGMAG A Z IN E . N E T

SOME BENEFITS OF HOME SCHOOL

• Parents have control over what their children learn, how, and when.

• They don’t worry their kids will get lost in the shuffle of students.

• Thank your child’s teacher throughout the year.

• Children and parents spend their days together and can foster more intimate relationships.

• If you’re pleased with the teacher, let the administration know.

• Curriculum can be easily tailored to each child’s dominant learning style.

• View them on GreatSchools.com or SchoolDigger. com to read parent reviews, find student/teacher ratios, extra-curriculum offerings, and other helpful information.

• Family schedules are freed up and learning can occur outside a traditional classroom.

D E C E M B E R 2 01 7

• Parents can more easily impart their values and beliefs to their children.

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OBALON AN EASY PILL TO SWALLOW

INNOVATIVE NEW OBALON BALLOON PROCEDURE HELPS DEFLATE WEIGHT WITHOUT DRUGS, DIETS, OR SURGERY

BY ANNETTE BROOKS

Nearly two-thirds of Americans are overweight or obese, even though we spend billions of dollars each year on weight loss products and diet foods. Weight loss surgery may be an option if you meet the criteria and are willing to go under the knife, but what if you aren’t ready to have surgery? Or what if you are under the 35 or greater BMI (body mass index) threshold required to be a candidate for weight loss surgery? A next generation gastric balloon from Obalon may be the answer.

A NEW WAY TO FEEL FULLER, EAT LESS, AND LOSE WEIGHT A couple of years ago, a reversible outpatient procedure called the gastric balloon was introduced. Intended to help kick start the weight loss process, the gastric balloon fills the stomach and thus decreases your food intake. By eating less food and calories, you lose weight. The balloon placement procedure involves inserting a deflated balloon into the stomach via the esophagus using an endoscope, then filling it with a sterile saline solution. After six months the balloon is removed.

For many people, however, the idea of an endoscopic procedure while sedated begged the question: “Isn’t there something else that doesn’t require sedation or involve as much down time?” Obalon developed an answer. The company created a threeballoon technology intended to one-up the traditional gastric balloon and then some.

You simply swallow a capsule about

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TRIO OF BALLOONS SWALLOWED OVER TIME During an Obalon treatment, the patient swallows up to three balloon capsules. Each balloon occupies approximately one cup of volume once it’s inflated.

After the initial balloon capsule is swallowed and inflated, a second one is swallowed and filled at two weeks, and a third at four weeks. At six months all balloons are easily deflated and removed.

BE PREPARED TO COMMIT TO LIFESTYLE CHANGES, TOO During your first consultation, your Obalon-trained physician will take your medical history, examine your current health condition, and perform any necessary medical tests. In addition, be prepared to discuss your expectations and desired results so your physician can determine if you are the right candidate for the Obalon Balloon System.

A key factor in determining if you are a good candidate is your willingness to modify your lifestyle and embrace healthful eating. The Obalon Balloon System is a tool that helps you jump-start the weight loss process, but your success and the degree of long-term weight loss will depend on your ability to change old behaviors and adopt new ones that you will maintain after the balloons are removed. It is important that you discuss your willingness to accept this commitment with your physician before undergoing the Obalon Balloon System treatment.

OBALON BALLOON SYSTEM FAST FACTS • FDA-Approved, first and only swallowable lightweight balloon.

• Patients with the Obalon Balloon System combined with diet and exercise lost approximately twice as much weight as those with diet and exercise alone.

• Placement of each balloon typically takes less than 10 minutes and requires no surgery or sedation. After placement, most patients (with their physician’s approval) return to normal activities with no downtime.

• The Obalon Balloon System is intended for adults with a BMI of 30 to 40 who have been unable to lose weight through diet and exercise, and are willing to follow a diet and exercise program.

“Intra-gastric balloons for weight loss are an exciting new technology now available for patients struggling with their weight who don’t necessarily want to proceed with bariatric surgery. They are placed in clinic and removed by endoscopy and help patients manage the sensation of hunger and portion control to achieve their weight loss goals.”

Hossein Bagshahi, MD, HB Health

Adeena’s Start to a Better Life Adeena wanted something that would help her change her life and her relationship with food. Thanks to the Obalon Balloon System, she is well on her way to accomplishing her goals.

“I really wanted to lose weight. It’s disappointing when you look in the mirror and you just don’t recognize yourself,” Adeena shares. “I am about three-and-a-half months into my Obalon procedure and I have all three balloons. I’ve continued to lose on a steady pace of about one-and-one-half pounds a week so I’m down about 20 pounds so far. I’ve become that girlfriend at dinner that you hate—the one who always says, “Oh we can order dessert!” and then takes one bite and is like, “I’m so full I couldn’t have another bite.” This is by far the best thing ever!”

Adeena says weight loss with the Obalon system has been easy and the results have been amazing. “It seemed like a great way to kick myself into gear to get the diet and exercise started. It really is a six month start to a better life!” she says.

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L I V I NGMAG A Z IN E . N E T

IMAGERY PROPERTY OF OBALON THERAPEUTICS. OBALON IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK OF OBALON THERAPEUTICS, INC.

the size of a vitamin pill containing the balloon, which is attached to a thin micro-catheter. Using X-ray imaging, your physician confirms that the capsule is safely in your stomach, then fills it with gas via the ultra-thin catheter. Once done, the micro-catheter is removed quickly and smoothly.

In the clinical study after placement, most patients returned to normal activities with no downtime.

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When Dr. Eidson first began to hear about some doctors in the area utilizing PRP {platelet rich plasma) injections and Stem Cell injections for patients with osteoarthritis and various other chronic pain problems he was skeptical to say the least. For over 27 years he had always been careful to only recommend a new treatment to his patients after he was fairly certain that they would benefit from the treatment. After nearly a year of hearing good reports about stem cell and PRP treatments he decided to give it a try - but on himself instead of a patient. It was August, 2016 and he was scheduled to have total knee replacement on his left knee and tendon repair on the right knee that December.

"My left knee was bone on bone and I thought, if this can help this knee, it can help anyone's. I had the PRP injection done on both knees and one week later had stem cells done on both knees. Within a few weeks my knee pain had decreased and I noticed less creaking when I bent down.

Then after about 8 weeks I felt so good, I canceled my surgery. In February of 2017 I x-rayed my left knee and there was cartilage where there had been none. I became a true believer in this treatment then and there!

Since I practice in a multi-disciplinary clinic my patients now have the benefit of this amazing treatment that doesn't just reduce pain, it actually heals and regenerates injured tissue. This year is my 30th year in practice and has been one of the most rewarding years yet, seeing people who have had their life limited by painful joints, back or neck pain get back to doing the things they enjoy and love to do. For me, this is what being a doctor is all about.”

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ADVENTURE Christkindlmarkt offers everything you could want to buy for the holidays. Image courtesy of Discover Lehigh Valley.

in Christmas BETHLEHEM

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There is nothing like the sights and SOUNDS of Christmas. So blessed to be able to connect with my family during this magical time of the year.

ONE FAMILY EXPERIENCES THEIR FIRST HOLIDAY SEASON IN CHRISTMAS CITY, USA

BY ANNETTE BROOKS

Named after one of the holiest places on earth, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania pulls out all the stops each Christmas season. The city and its residents create an atmosphere so festive, uplifting, and genuine that even Ebenezer Scrooge couldn’t resist its charms.

From a visitors’ perspective, Bethlehem—known as Christmas City USA—is a holiday wonderland where music fills the air and joy fills the heart. When Steve and Linda became residents of this community nestled

46

among rolling hills in the heart of the verdant Lehigh Valley, they learned just how special Bethlehem is.

something going on throughout the year, from art exhibits to concerts and world-class music festivals.”

“We love it here. Bethlehem has been a pleasant surprise,” says Steve, a professor at Lehigh University. “I had been commuting to my job at the university for a while, so we knew Bethlehem was always transformed for the holidays. As residents, we discovered what could be considered insider Christmas events because they aren’t widely advertised. We also discovered that there’s always

One of the “insider” events that surprised and thrilled Steve and Linda during their first Christmas in Bethlehem was the live nativity pageant, which is held annually in Rose Garden Park.

“The nativity pageant is incredible,” Linda says. “It’s a realistic production with everyone in full costume. There are live stable animals and they even bring in a camel. The representation L I V I NGMAG A Z IN E . N E T

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ADVENTURE is as authentic as possible, right down to the human infant in the manger representing baby Jesus.”

Steve added, “Bethlehem is easy to get around and walkable for residents and visitors alike. For example, you can walk from the live nativity pageant to downtown where there are great boutiques, shops, and restaurants, and the historic Bethlehem Hotel.”

Patrece, a student at Lehigh University and Steve’s daughter, says she too found Bethlehem to be a welcomed surprise. “The city immerses you in the holiday spirit.

You can’t walk down the street without breaking into a smile. And almost everywhere you look, you see live Christmas trees.”

Offering everything from caroling and horse-drawn carriage rides to holiday performances and shopping, the magical holiday destination

of Bethlehem—located a couple of hours from New York City and about an hour from Philadelphia— starts transforming by the first of November. Doors are festively decorated, beautiful window displays beckon, and lamp posts and poles are festooned with freshly cut evergreens twinkling with lights and ornaments.

Downtown Bethlehem’s wide variety of boutiques, galleries, and shops offer unique finds, and Christkindlmarkt—a German-style holiday market held on the grounds of the old Bethlehem Steelworks—is not to be missed. Twice recognized as one of the best holiday markets in the U.S. by Travel + Leisure, it contains aisles of handmade works by more than 150 of the nation’s finest artisans.

If you’re visiting Bethlehem in December leading up to Christmas, stop by the Goundie House on Main Street at 5 p.m. It hosts a live advent

calendar, with a different merchant coming out with a “treat” for whoever is waiting at the door. And while you’re visiting, check out the calendar of entertainment and events at SteelStacks, a 10-acre community campus at the former Bethlehem Steel plant on the city’s South Side.

It offers an ever-expanding menu of performing arts, film, family programs, and festivals.

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Daddy’s.”

“Mo-om,” Caitlyn whined.

I quickly cut her off.

“Number two. You have to maintain a B average in school. If you can’t keep your grades up, they go back to us until the next report card.”

At this Caitlyn smirked. “I have an A average,” she stated proudly.

BY REBECCA ASHBROOK CARRELL

Gifts with Strings

The gift in and of itself was free. Keeping it, however, was not.

Tucking them in on Christmas Eve, I wondered who was more excited, them or me. I remember the feeling as a little girl, lying awake for hours, ears straining to hear the sound of hooves on rooftops, desperately hoping I’d been good enough to warrant Santa’s favor. My eyes always popped open long before the house was awake. I would carefully extract myself from bed, tiptoe down the hall, avoid the creaky stair, and then gaze in wonderment at the piles of presents under the tree.

“Worth it,” I silently mouthed to my beaming husband.

We make a grave error when we live as though God gives as we do.

They tore through the rest of the gifts quickly. I refilled my coffee, started the cinnamon rolls, and smiled, watching Mike set up their tablets.

This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that

“It’s time,” I said.

Christmas 2014 was the year we pulled the trigger. I had been so strong for so long—a mighty oak that could not be toppled—until years of begging wore me down.

“It is?” He asked.

“Mo-om,” my daughter screamed, drawing an extra syllable out of a one-syllable word, “Mo-om! You said you weren’t gonna get us one! You said not til we were ten!”

“Not a chance,” I shot back.

In 2014 I changed my mind, mainly because I was tired.

I was tired of the fights, the whining, the begging; the it’s my turn’s and the that’s no fair’s! I was tired of wiping sticky fingerprints off my iPad® and I suspected that my sweet husband, who has a much lower threshold for messy than I do, was tired of the same for his Kindle.

So in late November I approached Mike

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Christmas of 2014 was the year the kids each got a Kindle™.

My son nearly barreled me over with his full-body bear hug.

squeal with delight.

The following year he hesitatingly tried again.

Later, once the house had quieted down, I thought about the many strings attached to their presents.

What can I say? I’m weak.

with my tail between my legs and a defeated sigh.

“No,” I quickly snapped. “They’re far too young!”

Mike and I went over the rest of the rules, explaining to them as we went: all devices charge overnight in our bedroom, extra time earned for good behavior, and on and on.

The tablets were a free gift to my children. They had done nothing to earn them; they had spent nothing on them.

Had my husband and I added up all of their good deeds and all of their mischief, I fear mischief might have won. No, the Kindle had not been earned. But Mike and I love our children, wanted to do something to delight them, and chose to set our favor upon them.

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— —Ephesians 2:8 NIV

In 2012 my husband suggested it.

“Yes, you do,” I replied, “and I’m very proud of you. Number three,” I continued, “your Kindle never goes in your bedroom with the door shut. You play with it in the living room or the study where we can see you.”

“It is,” I sighed.

Can you guess what the kids found under the tree? It’s black and smooth and rhymes with “spindle.”

Although part of me was wary of giving them a tablet, another part could scarcely wait to see them tear off the paper and

On Christmas morning they did just that.

Then came the strings.

“Okay you two, sit down,” my husband said in his best you’re-not-in-trouble-butI-mean-business voice. “We have some rules to establish.”

“Number one,” I said, “we are going to let you play on them as much as you want today. But after today, thirty minutes a day, just like when you play with mine or L I V I NGMAG A Z IN E . N E T

came by Christ Jesus.

—Romans 3:22-24 NIV

Did you skip over the Scripture? Go back and read it. Now read it again, slowly.

Savor every sentence and digest every word. Say it out loud and own it, because your peace of mind just might hinge on this: Your salvation was free.

It was free. You did not deserve it. God D E C E M B E R 2 01 7

did not look upon you, weigh your good deeds against the bad, and deem you worthy. Think about the state you were in when He saved you. The Bible doesn’t say you were bad, good, getting better, or great; the Bible says you were dead.

As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins…

—Ephesians 2:1

Last time I checked, dead people don’t do much.

Now before you get depressed, think about the implications here. If you did nothing to earn the favor of God, then you can’t lose it, either.

I have to say it again because it’s huge.

Since you did nothing to earn the favor of God, there is nothing you can do to lose it.

This means you can stop.

You can step off the spiritual treadmill and rest. Nothing exhausts the Christ-follower more than trying to be good enough. You’re not good enough, and neither am I. Neither is anybody else.

As it is written: “There is no one righteous, not even one.”

—Romans 3:10

You can stop trying to do more or be more. You could never do enough to earn your salvation, never be good enough to make it on your own merit. As one of my favorite pastors likes to say, “The only thing we bring to our salvation is the sin that makes it necessary.”

It didn’t take long after receiving their tablets that Caitlyn and Nick got in trouble for fighting and had them taken away.

You see, while the Kindle was given to them freely, they had to work to keep it.

How many times have you or I felt compelled to continue earning the salvation that was freely given to us?

There are no strings on God’s grace.

His grace is promiscuous, lavishing the adulteress, the thief, and the tax collector with a love that won’t let go. It snakes its way into the deepest, darkest pits and extracts the heinous, the outcast, and the uttermost dregs of society. His grace is completely and utterly unfair.

The grace of God pays the hard worker and the latecomer the same wages. It shares bread with those who betray Him

and drinks wine with the one who denies Him. It gives the fattened calf to the prodigal and forsakes the ninety-nine to bring back the one.

God’s grace knows no bounds.

It is God’s grace that saved you. Not your past. Not your potential. Not your pedigree.

You can stop sucking in your sin and trying to impress. You can slowly exhale and rest.

Not rest on your laurels, though. Does the grace of God free you up to screw things up? No. And if that is the attitude one takes then they haven’t tasted grace.

When we come face-to-face with who we are – not who people think we are but who we really are – when we come face to face with the reality of our depravity, and the beautiful truth that God saved us anyway, we will be freed up to joyfully serve Him who freed us.

He was perfectly sinless. We are perfectly sinful. We deserve the worst. He stepped off the throne, into flesh, and took the punishment for our crimes. He stands between our accuser and the Father.

He takes our worst and exchanges it with righteousness, perfection, and salvation.

No strings. No tricks. No games.

Only the promise of forever in the Presence of our Savior.

But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

—Ephesians 2:4-10 NIV IPAD® IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK OF APPLE, INC. KINDLE™ IS A TRADEMARK OF AMAZON.COM, INC. OR ITS AFFILIATES.

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TRADITION

BY MIMI GREENWOOD KNIGHT

When my four kids were small, and Christmas Eve was the longest day of the year, I started taking them to a Christmas Eve matinee, as a way to keep their mind off the anticipation of Santa—at least for two hours. Then, they started junior high and high school, and had their own business social lives. I thought it was time to forgo the Christmas Eve matinee, until my daughter, Molly, chided me with, “But, Mom, it’s a family tradition!” Really? I had no idea.

service members stationed overseas.

dinner for a group of them.

CUT YOUR OWN CHRISTMAS TREE

Start an Ornament Collection

Here are a few holiday traditions that could be fun to initiate with your own family this year.

If one family member usually handles the cooking, have the rest of the family take over, while they enjoy a day of rest.

PAY IT FORWARD Teach your kids it’s better to give than to receive. If you know a family in need, take your kids shopping and let them select then help wrap gifts to give (anonymously) to the kids.

Volunteer at a local homeless shelter.

Send a care packages and cards to

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Bundle up and head to a local Christmas tree farm in search of the perfect tree. Look for a farm that offers hayrides, sleigh rides, Santa time, or other family-friendly activities. Then come home to hot cocoa and a decorating party.

(Christmas carols are mandatory.)

GIVE MOM (OR DAD) THE DAY OFF

HOST A MEAL FOR FRIENDS WITHOUT FAMILY NEARBY The holidays can be hard, when you’re far from home and family.

Include a single friend in your holiday plans or schedule a special brunch or

If you buy your child one special ornament each year, when they’re ready to leave home, they’ll have a collection to start their own tree.

Select a theme for each child (musical instruments, rocking horses, Santas…) and add a piece to their collection, each year as they grow.

GO HOLIDAY “LIGHT-SEEING” Pile in the car with hot cocoa or apple cider in insulated cups and drive through a different neighborhood each night. This is one activity you never have to outgrow.

You can’t really MAKE a holiday tradition stick. It does, or it doesn’t.

But trying a few new ones will increase your chances that your family will find a special, new memory maker to enjoy together, year after year.

L I V I NGMAG A Z IN E . N E T

D E C E M B E R 2 01 7

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Dr. Mallery & his staff would like to wish you a Merry Christmas

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