Lake Conroe
POSTCARDS Houston Zoo Lights / Ibet Inyang Beneche / Clipped by Rainey B.
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2 Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition | December 2021
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2016-2021
December 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition 3
FEATURES
December 2021 | Volume 10, Issue 12
10
40
Just for Fun
Business Focus
Houston Zoo Lights
Clipped by Rainey B.
20 A Special Conversation Ibet Inyang Beneche
FAVORITES 6 7 8 16 18 19 26 29
Publisher’s Post Let’s Celebrate From Our Readers Dear Gabby Glorious Grandkids The Latest Health Matters Pet Pals
30 The Garden Post 34 What’s Cookin’ 38 Giggles & Grins 39 Sudoku Marketplace 44 Kidding Around 46 Vet Connect 48 Community Calendar 50 Mustard Seed Moments
Cover Photo by Kathryn Altom
CONROE ADVANCED DENTISTRY Aesthetics-Implants-Occlusion-Reconstruction-TMD-Wear
Conroe families have trusted our practice for over 35 years, and that’s because we constantly provide honest, friendly, and high-quality dentistry that always puts patient satisfaction first. 4 Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition | December 2021
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Publisher’s Post Karen Altom publisher@postcardslive.com
Your Local Community Magazine! PostcardsLakeConroe
Do You Hear What I Hear? As I write this column, I am experiencing a time of stillness and quiet. In fact, it surprised me so much, I thought I would share. We are smack-dab in the middle of the holidays…one of the busiest times of the year. At least, that is always the case for me. In a way, the holidays are a little like raising children--you can hardly wait for them to arrive, but then you are so busy handling “everything” that you look up and they are gone. I think that is why this moment struck me so. Outside, the rain is falling. It has been all day. I normally do not mind the rain; in fact, usually I quite enjoy it. A cold rain, like the one going on now, is low on my list of likes. My sweet husband is at a meeting at church. The television is off, and I have been sitting…and thinking… and listening…and being still.
PostcardsLive.com
If you would like to receive our magazine and are not currently on our mailing list, subscriptions are available. MAILED to select postal routes in Conroe, Willis and Montgomery. FREE rack copies at advertisers and businesses in towns listed above. Published Monthly by Altom Consulting & Marketing, Inc. Publisher Karen Altom Editor Wes Altom
I admit to you, this column was one of the things I was thinking on. Last month, I received such precious letters from readers about the column I wrote on grandparents, that I sat here thinking, “Whatever will I write about now?”
Advertising Team Janet T. Jones Jennifer Abbrat Nancy Jolly Marshall Altom
If you’ve read my writings over the years, you’ve seen me say, “God always provides the idea. Every. Time.” So as I sat here, He did again. “Be still.” Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still and know that I am God.” What better time of year to stop? What better time to be still and be in awe of the gift God gave us? If you don’t know about that gift, I’ll be happy to share.
Design Team Mary Partida April Key
Enjoy this season. Make time for some quiet, still moments. You will be glad you did.
Merry Christmas,
~
Karen
Social Media Management Abby Altom Boyd
Printed in Texas by Shweiki Media Online: www.PostcardsLive.com Address: PO Box 690 • Huntsville, TX 77342 Call our Office: 936.293.1188 We reserve the right to edit or reject any material submitted. The publisher assumes no responsibility for the return of any unsolicited material. No material from Postcards Magazine™ can be copied, faxed, electronically, or otherwise used without express written permission. Publication of articles, advertisements or product information does not constitute endorsement or approval by Postcards Magazine™ and/or its publisher. Business Focus stories printed in Postcards Magazine™ are drawn at random from contract advertisers. © 2021 by Altom Consulting & Marketing, Inc., All rights reserved.
6 Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition | December 2021
Let’s Celebrate This Month’s Business Anniversaries:
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10 am - 6:30 pm Monday - Friday • 10 am - 5:30 pm Saturday December 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition 7
This festive sesason is so much more than Christmas parties and gift giving. May the miracle of Christmas fill your heart with wonder and joy! “Oh come, let us adore Him!”
Merry Christmas from our family to yours!
From Our Readers You have done such an awesome job with this magazine. I love receiving mine each month! Debora Byrd
WOW! Thank you for inspirational article “A Feather on the Water”, it was an amazing story and reminds us all how we should cherish every day and try to be kind to everyone. Thank you for your magazine…keep up the good work! Tish Humphrey
Great article you wrote (Publisher’s Post - Unreachable) and such an incredible magazine for what’s left of our old country life up here. I have found when losing or misplacing my phone, I can still call it and access my voicemail by hitting the # key! Hope that helps someone else. Rusty L Neimeyer Jr
Huntsville
936.294.0283
Love your local stories! Betty Dunn
• 127 Medical Park Lane • 227 Hwy 75 N Suite 245 Conroe
936.494.1292 • 1020 Riverwood Ct. Suite 120
8 Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition | December 2021
I am originally from this area and moved back 2 years ago. I always love the magazine. My favorite stories have been Mary Laura’s (Gibbs) quilts and the interview with Lee Jamison. Glynda Turner
This Holiday Season, Give the Gift of
Become A Member When you become a member of The Club at Margaritaville Lake Resort, Lake Conroe | Houston, you’ll enjoy unparalleled access to all of the resort’s amenities. Members also receive exclusive discounts and special pricing at all restaurants and bars on property, allowing you to fully experience the authentic Margaritaville lifestyle built on food, fun and escapism!
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SIGN A ONE-YEAR CONTRACT BY DECEMBER 24TH FOR A Compass or Junior Compass Membership and receive a gift certificate for a two-night stay at the resort Fins Up Wellness or Social Passport Membership and receive a gift certificate for a one-night stay at the resort
For more information, contact Director of Membership, Lori Granato, at lori.granato@margaritavilleresortlakeconroe.com or (936) 448.3205.
eGift Cards This holiday season, give a gift that offers recipients a unique experience based on their personal timing and choice. With an electronic gift card to Margaritaville Lake Resort, Lake Conroe | Houston, you can send your gift instantly or schedule it to be delivered on a certain day via e-mail, text or even through Facebook! Gift cards can be used towards an overnight stay, membership fees, dining, spa treatments, a round of golf and so much more. To purchase an eGift Card, visit MargaritavilleResortLakeConroeTexas.com.
Margaritaville Retail Store From beach-inspired apparel, coastal casual home decorations and, of course, flip-flops, the Live Life Like A Song Margaritaville Store is your one-stop shop to take home a little slice of paradise. Located off the main lobby of the Margaritaville Lake Resort, Lake Conroe’s guestroom tower, this Margaritaville Store is open to resort guests, members, locals and the public. Come see us for unique holiday gift ideas and stop by this December to pick up a keepsake Margaritaville Christmas ornament!
600 Margaritaville Parkway, Montgomery, TX 77356 | 936.448.4400 | MargaritavilleResortLakeConroeTexas.com
December 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition 9
Just for Fun Story by Wes Altom Photos by Marshall Altom
Houston Z
Since animals were involved when Jesus was born in a manger, it should come as no surprise that animals play host to an event shedding light on the “reason for the season.” Houston Zoo Lights, now in its tenth year, is sponsored by TXU Energy and is one of the largest and most visited holiday light displays in the nation. The Houston Zoo is transformed into a winter wonderland, and one of Houston’s most well-loved holiday traditions. While many light displays are drive-thru adventures, this is truly an immersive experience. Guests can sip hot chocolate as they stroll through the beautiful Houston Zoo grounds and take in the sights and sounds of the season. Fifteen miles of earth-friendly LED lighting illuminate the zoo’s historic oak trees and decorate the paths to light the way.
10 Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition | December 2021
n Zoo Lights
Photo credited to Houston Zoo
»
December 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition 11
This Year’s Highlights Visitors this year can experience the Holiday Grove with animal-themed lanterns and hundreds of glowing flowers under the great oak trees wrapped in winter lights. You can see the Zoo’s Great Ape Gallery transformed into an Illuminated Ocean presented by H-E-B, a glowing underwater adventure. This creative display takes you “under the sea” as you walk under illuminated jellyfish and other sea creatures overhead. Return to “land” and walk under a canopy of glowing flowers and butterflies in the hanging pollinator garden. Take a stroll through a 125-foot-long Infinity Tunnel of Light. You can even see “snow” in Texas and explore Winter Wonderland presented by Houston Methodist. Be sure to take a photo in front of the new 33’ tall color-changing holiday tree, and remember to take a photo with Santa as he prepares for the holidays in his workshop at Twiga Café. The zoo is always a magical place, but even more so at Christmastime. Each year, this celebration in light only gets bigger and better.
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12 Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition | December 2021
Member of Walker County Chamber of Commerce License: TPCL 0774786
LED Lights Help Wildlife The Houston Zoo saves wildlife by only using energysaving LED lights during Zoo Lights. The LED lights are using 85% less power than incandescent lights, allowing the Houston Zoo to conserve lots of energy. Tons of holiday lights end up in landfills which spill over into animals’ natural homes. To help cut down on this waste, the Houston Zoo has recycled more than 24,000 pounds of holiday lights since 2016. Everyone can save wildlife by bringing and recycling broken or old holiday lights at the Houston Zoo throughout Zoo Lights. Save money on electricity bills and save wildlife by using LED lights at home.
Did You Know? The Houston Zoo is home to over 6,000 animals and welcomes over two million guests each year. Through guests visiting the Zoo, it supports 49 wildlife conservation projects in 27 countries around the world. It is the second most visited Zoo in the U.S. and the most-attended cultural attraction in the region.
» At this time of year, our thoughts turn gratefully to those who have made our business possible.
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from our family to yours.
We’re the ones to call!
936-756-7816
Independently Owned & Operated
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Roysair.com December 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition 13
Wishing you and your family a Merry Christmas.
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Know Before You Go During the nightly event, the zoo animals settle down for their long winter’s nap, and the star attraction is the lights. To see the zoo’s animals, guests are encouraged to visit the Houston Zoo during regular daytime hours, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (last entry at 3:00 PM). Zoo Lights event is a separate ticket from daytime zoo admission. Zoo Lights hours are 5:30-10:30 p.m., with last entry at 9:30 p.m. Tickets will NOT be available for purchase at the gate and are only available online through houstonzoo.org. Buy early for the best price! Note: Ticket prices are the same for adults and children. Children ages 2 and under are free. Present the digital ticket on your mobile device to scan for entry. This year, in order to control flow and allow for better distancing, there is timed entry. Your reserved time slot is your assigned arrival time. Military, First Responders, and Educators are all eligible for 20% off admission throughout the Zoo Lights season. Contact the call center at 713-533-6500 with event questions, questions about purchasing tickets or the online ordering system.
Merry Christmas!
Use the main entrance at 6200 Hermann Park Drive. The Zoo does not have its own parking lot; free parking is available in lots in Hermann Park outside the Zoo. Per CDC guidelines, masks are strongly encouraged for all guests inside Zoo buildings. The Zoo is a sprawling outdoor venue with abundant space to allow for safe social distancing, and the Zoo is limiting capacity during the event. Along the Zoo Lights path, you’ll encounter plenty of yummy holiday treats including s’mores kits, hot chocolate, and more! Multiple food locations will be available, including Cypress Circle Café during Zoo Lights hours.
HeavenlyCAKES & FLOWERS Cookies • Desserts • Keto • Gluten Free Full Florist • Weddings • Birthday Parties Funerals • Flower Specials • More 15% Discount on: • Tuesdays for First Responders • Wednesdays for Military • Thursdays for Medical Staff • Fridays for Teachers
(936) 760-3499 heavenlycakesflowers@gmail.com
806 N. Loop 336 W. • Conroe, TX 14 Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition | December 2021
Stroller and scooter rentals will be available during Zoo Lights. Rentals may be paid via credit card only. Houston Zoo Lights is open daily through January 9 (Closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day).
Houston Zoo
6200 Hermann Park Drive Houston, TX 77030 713-533-6500 www.houstonzoo.org
Milestones
Carl and Ida Jo Hall recently celebrated 61 years together. They married August 12, 1960.
Ruth and Charlie Fields recently celebrated their 39th anniversary.
Share your Milestone!
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December 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition 15
Dear Gabby Welcome back to the Dear Gabby advice column. Blessings to you in this precious Christmas season. We seem to get wrapped up in the gifts during the holidays and forget that it’s the thought that counts. With that being said, giving a memorable gift to someone you care about is important. My most memorable gift was when I was 26 and still living with my parents. They gave me a set of luggage. I got the message. Remember the reason for the season and drop me a line to Dear Gabby at PostcardsLive.com. DEAR GABBY
FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS!
Is there a proper time for neighbors to turn off their Christmas lights? The ones right outside my window blink, and it looks like a disco party in my bedroom all night long! BOOGIE NIGHTS DEAR BOOGIE
• • • • • • • •
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Christmas lights should be merry and bright, but not bright enough to encourage aircraft to land on the roof! They should also be turned off when the homeowner goes to bed. Let’s hope your neighbor is not a day sleeper and will cease and desist the strobe lights when Christmas is over. GABBY
DEAR GABBY I haven’t put up a Christmas tree yet, because we are now the proud owners of a pandemic cat. She is delightful and very entertaining, but she does love to jump and climb. What are the chances of decorating with an energetic kitten in the house and the tree surviving? CRAZY CAT MOM DEAR CRAZY Oh Christmas tree, Oh Christmas tree, your ornaments are history. Well, not necessarily. I have a cat and a Christmas tree. It’s possible. A Christmas tree is like a cardboard box on steroids to a cat. It provides height, a place to hide, and is full of toys - all things cats love. If you must decorate a tree, attach it firmly to a wall; all cats think they’re a “star.” I’d use an artificial tree, so there is no water involved when the tree faints (the cat will act like that’s what happened). Wrap the tree trunk in foil and place a few lemon or orange peels around the base. And if you distribute small jingle bells around the tree, you’ll at least know when all that fails. GABBY
www.willis-kwikkar.com
CONFIDENTIAL TO GLASS HALF-EMPTY: That may be true at the moment, but you’re overlooking one important aspect about life in general--the glass is refillable. Go for it!
Merry Christmas from our family to yours!
16 Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition | December 2021
What Are You Reading? • Braces - Orthodontics • Bridges • Crowns • Dental Implants • Dental Warranty
Elicia Rice reading
Fahrenheit 451
Have you seen a dentist recently, but still have concerns about your treatment?
By Ray Bradbury
If you have received a quote from another dentist within the past three months, we will be happy to take a second look for free. We will need a copy of the original treatment plan to review your options with our office. Give us a call to discuss how to get your complimentary second opinion scheduled.
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December 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition 17
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Glorious Grandkids
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Olivia
Ivan Anderson
Grandchild of Connie Slocomb
Grandchild of William & Dee Nixon
Grandchild of John & Mary Kellar
Share Your Grandkid Photos with Us!
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Tree Lighting
Tuesday, December 3 6pm Heritage Place (500 Metcalf St)
Christmas on Main
Tuesday, December 3 7pm-8:30pm Downtown Conroe
Heritage Place Conroe Christmas Celebration Saturday, December 14 11am-4pm Heritage Place (500 Metcalf St)
Kiwanis Christmas Parade
Saturday, December 14 1pm Downtown Conroe 936.522.3900 I CityofConroe.org
18 Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition | December 2021
The Latest by Amy Barnett
Catching up with Hometown Superstar
Parker McCollum Celebrating an incredible year When we first interviewed Parker McCollum three years ago, he was thrilled to have sold out Shenanigans Visit Postcardslive.com to & Confetti’s Beach Club in read the original story in the March 2019 issue. Huntsville. It was certainly an accomplishment, as was acquiring his first tour bus – another milestone that year. There was no doubt his career was taking off, and rightfully so. When you combine hard work and determination, stellar songwriting, and a voice that sounds like no other – you get magic. The following year, McCollum’s dream of a major record deal came true when he signed with Universal Music Group Nashville (MCA Records).
home to set the record for the most tickets sold for a country concert at Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion in The Woodlands. More than 17-thousand fans showed up to see their hometown boy.
Even when the pandemic halted live music, McCollum stayed focused and found national radio success. He earned his first No. 1 song in December 2020 when Pretty Heart climbed to the top of the charts.
“For my family to be there and get to share that was special. The only thing that has ever mattered to me truly while chasing this dream was making my family proud and letting them know that I understand who I come from and what I come from and how lucky I am to have them in my life,” he said. “I think that night, they were proud.”
If you are wondering how he could top this level of success, buckle up. The past 12 months have been the most exciting yet. McCollum made his Grand Ole Opry debut, earned a platinum record, released his first fulllength album on MCA Records, toured with Dierks Bentley, and got engaged to the love of his life, Hallie Ray Light. He also became an Apple Music Up Next artist, performed on Jimmy Kimmel Live! and came
“I graduated high school on that same stage ten years ago. To graduate and say I was going to go chase a dream and play country music for a living – people probably thought I was crazy. Adults wish you the best, but they know how the real world works and see the harsh reality of life and what it can be. So, for them to be there and witness it firsthand and see how big it’s gotten, it kind of solidified everything,” said McCollum. The City of Conroe also declared Oct. 2 “Parker McCollum Day” and gave him a key to the city.
If you missed the sold-out show in The Woodlands, mark your calendar for March 12, 2022. McCollum will take the big stage at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Let’s help him sell out NRG Stadium!
THE MEMORIES OF OUR LOVED ONES ARE STORED IN OUR HEART AND SOUL They are forever and eternal.
Merry Christmas
shmfh.com Your hometown experts in celebrating life!
10129 FM 1097 • Willis 936-890-0454
20850 Eva St. • Montgomery 936-597-7300
December 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition 19
A Special Conversation Story by Gracie Barnett Submitted Photos
I
20 Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition | December 2021
Ibe
You could say Ibet Inyang Beneche is serious about comedy. The Huntsville native and former Postcards contributing writer graduated from Huntsville High School in 2011 and attended Syracuse University, followed by the University of Southern California. After the success of her web series Sigh, which she wrote and produced while in grad school at USC – Ibet landed a writing position on the popular CBS sitcom Bob Hearts Abishola. Her Nigerian roots, knack for comedy, and lifetime of writing made her the perfect candidate for the TV show. Ibet shared with Postcards how she discovered her love of writing, the journey that brought her to network television, and what’s next for her career.
t In
yan
What brought your family to Huntsville? My parents were both born in Nigeria, and they moved here in 1980. I’m pretty sure my dad settled on Huntsville because of the criminal justice department and SHSU. My dad worked at TDCJ as a prison guard while he was studying at Sam Houston and got his PhD; then he became a counselor at the prison. He was there for years, and my mom still works at TDCJ as a medication aide.
When did you develop an interest in the arts and writing? It’s something I’ve known I was good at and had an affinity for since I was younger. In high school, I started taking more creative writing classes, joined the newspaper, and eventually became an editor of the newspaper. I did UIL in high school and was in feature writing and headline writing. I was excelling in that and got into Syracuse University, which has a pretty good journalism program. I don’t think my parents
Ibet during her HHS marching band days
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really understood it, but they were like, “Oh, she’s going to a really good school; maybe she’ll decide to be a lawyer at some point, but let’s let her do this thing for now.”
Was there a point in your life when you realized you were not only a good writer, but also funny? I’ve actually always found it much easier to write things that are funny rather than dramatic. I feel like anytime I try to write something dramatic, it always ends up having like a fart joke or something in it. Growing up, I watched a lot of sitcoms, like The Jeffersons, The Cosby Show, and Good Times. They’re what made me fall in love with TV and want to get involved with it in the first place.
After getting a degree in journalism from Syracuse, you moved to California for more education. Tell us about that. When I was a senior in Syracuse, I applied for USC and miraculously got in. I moved right after college to L.A. and did that program for two years. Near the end of the program, they put the pressure on you to have good samples, something to show that you are funny, that you’re a good writer. So, I took it into my own hands to create this web-series called Sigh that I felt was representative of who I was as a person and my sense of humor. I had always been a fan of Issa Rae, who had a web series called Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl.
»
December 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition 21
She really showed me it is possible to just make your own thing.
Sigh gained a lot of fans. Were you surprised? I was hoping it would just help me get a job or be a good sample that was stronger than the scripts I had written. I was still pretty much starting out and learning how to write at that point, so the fact that people really connected to it and found it really funny was surprising; but it gave me a lot of confidence. It actually made it to Austin Film Festival, which is not an easy festival to get into. It premiered there and got a lot of good response.
What was your next step after that? It helped me get a manager and an agent and the opportunity to start pitching another project around town. It was something I had written in school that was based on my life. I started going to different networks trying to sell it. The next year or so of my life was just going into rooms and being told “no” until I was able to get a job as a showrunner’s assistant on a TV show called Berlin Station. I was still pitching this concept for a Nigerian TV show to CBS, probably a week after I’d seen an article that CBS had just bought Bob Hearts Abishola. I still went in,
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22 Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition | December 2021
I pitched my show, I did my best, and of course, they didn’t buy it. About a month later, I got an email from one of the TV executives at CBS, and they remembered I’d pitched a Nigerian show and thought I would be great for Bob Hearts Abishola. That led to a meeting with the showrunner, and it got me a job.
My dad was like, “I’m so glad that people can see what Nigerians are really like, and why we act the way we do, and why we are so successful in this country.” He’s very proud of it, and I’m glad he thinks it’s authentic. They’re also often critical in a way that Nigerians are, just offhandedly. My mom is like, “That episode was good, but next time you should try to make it funny.” Like “Oh, on a comedy? We never thought of that.”
What do you enjoy most about what you’re doing with this project? I love getting to talk about Nigerian culture. My parents really did not understand what I’d been doing for most of my life – they knew that I was going to some journalism school and writing – but now that they can see a show that’s about people like them, people who talk like them, and they get to see their culture on screen. They understand what I do now, and it’s really cool.
What is a typical day of work like for you? Now it’s a little different, because we often work on Zoom. If it’s a day where we’re shooting, it might be us watching from our computers the feed of them
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Real Volunteers Real Results
Meeting Community Needs….Volunteers for Assistance League’s Caring and Sharing Program partner with diverse agencies to meet the needs of Montgomery County Residents. Partnerships include, but are not limited to…. • Communities in Schools to provide snacks to 20 campuses in our county. • Agencies that provide basic needs items for the homeless and families in transition. • Agencies serving the needs of at-risk teens and young adults. • Facilities serving the disabled by providing basic paper products. Looking for a great place to volunteer? Join us! Call Sandra Katri at 936-760-1511 126 N. San Jacinto Street • Conroe, TX 77301
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shooting the show on the lot and remotely. If a scene needs a new joke, we’ll be texting our boss a different line for a joke or something like that. It could be us watching a table read of a show - which is whenever they first get the script and read through it - and after that, we take the notes of what jokes worked and what jokes didn’t work, and we get on Zoom together and rewrite it. It’s kind of crazy how much we’re able to do from home.
I’m able to contribute to the show. The show is so amazing, and the stories we write are so funny and heartwarming. It’s great to be a part of this kind of team.
Are you enjoying being in this spot in your life? I’m really enjoying it and feel blessed to have this kind of job. All day I just make jokes and come up with stories about fictional characters, so it’s a great job to have. Also, I’m one of the few Nigerian people in the room, so it’s nice that I have this expertise that comes from my life that
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What are future goals of yours? I would love to continue to tell my own story. I’m grateful there’s a little piece of my story I get to incorporate into the show,
but there are so many more stories I want to tell – you know, about being a Nigerian American, about being a black woman, about my time in college, about my time in L.A. I think every experience I have sparks a new story that I, as a writer, definitely want to explore and tell. I would love to have a long career where I’m continuing to tell diverse stories we really haven’t seen before. I feel like, as a part of Bob Hearts Abishola, I’m part of something revolutionary in TV, because we haven’t seen many depictions of Nigerians or immigrants. I’m so thankful to kind of be breaking ground with that.
Ibet said she would love to give back to her hometown in some way in the future. She thanks her journalism and creative writing teachers for showing her she can explore the arts in a small town. Season 3 of Bob Hearts Abishola premiered on Sept.20. Be sure to tune in to CBS, Monday nights at 7:30 PM, CST.
December 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition 25
Health Matters www.drjimshealthtips.com By James W. Jones, MD, PhD, MHA
Life is a Song and Dance, if You Enhance Your Circumstance Even the most cultured among us often do not know precisely what constitutes their reality, because we often misguidedly consider it simply as a backdrop in which we live. Your environment in the global sense includes your surroundings, all the people in direct contact, aggregate societal happenings, and how you think about these aspects. Your reality is what you make it to be. Evaluate and Act. Consider the total of your reality and how it enchantingly morphed into your present. Briefly detail the enhancements that added to your present-day province, then reflect on impediments and how you overcame them. It will bring a smile and might make you feel like dancing. If so go ahead, DANCE!
considerably. Examine what has really happened (and why) in detail. Carefully choose what you can and should do to deal with the state of affairs. If you can do nothing to improve things, decide whether feeling remorseful will help; if not, stop your internal torment and think of how to avoid similar problems.
Place some humor in your life, and your life will brighten up. After all as the song “Dance in the Rain” exuberantly instructs, “Life isn’t about frightfully waiting for the storm to pass, it’s about learning to dance in the rain.” Dance! A very close friend experienced hard times, yet always seemed to keep on top of it all. When things went south, he would vehemently shrug his shoulders, loudly say, “This too will pass,” and go on with his life.
As my wonderful Grandmother Nichols advised wh e n troubles burdened, “Just adjust your attitude.” I adjusted bummer attitudes the remainder of my life and improved outcomes 26 Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition | December 2021
Terminate the run-through of habitually appreciating the good things in life most when they are gone. OH NO! That nearly universal distortion cheats the perpetrator out of much satisfaction. Embellish your good fortune by fully appreciating the goods life has bestowed (especially good friends) repeatedly in the present moment. Make each moment count, and you will approach abundant life. Stop and make a gratitude list in your mind, and appreciation will soar as your spirit rejoices. In doing so, think of three happenings in the last 24 hours that were refreshing. Make time to spend with your loved ones and friends and, when around them or
communicating by phone, make them the sole purpose of your attention by avoiding distractions. Be thankful for your plentiful meals, because there are more hungry people in the world than live in North America. Here there are abundant huge grocery stores and nearly countless fast food shops waiting for hungry people in the USA. Express your affection by noticing the good things and delightfully complimenting others when deserved. Dispense appropriate hugs. Appreciate good friends willingly, but especially let loved ones know you care. Make “Thank you” one of the most frequent phrases from your mouth. Make your life gratifying by knowing what your most satisfying activities are and repeating them often.
From the Mouths of Babes... When my son was really young, I told him, “I don’t ever want to see you do that again.” He responded with “Okay, close your eyes.”
Partners Submitted by: Brian B Smith, CFP®, Bryan M Masten, CFP® & Riley W. Smith
What do you worry about? My girlfriend was in the pediatrician’s office with her five-year-old son for a routine checkup. A nurse glanced at his chart and announced he was overdue for a particular shot. When the nurse left the room, the little boy threw himself back upon the examination table and stagewhispered, in a wavering voice, “Do you have any idea...(pause for drama)...what I’ve been through?”
I try to make it a point to take about 10 minutes at the end of each evening to help my daughter straighten up her room. After a particularly rough day, I sat down on the floor of her room to help her sort through her dolls and I had muttered “I really don’t have the juice for this tonight...” My daughter left the room and returned a few minutes later with a cup of apple juice for me.
Overheard in a first grade classroom:“Well, when my Mom and Dad practice wrestling, I get to eat a whole bowl of ice cream and watch whatever movie I want!!!”
My toddler asked me to give her chicken nuggets a checkup. After giving all the nuggets a medical exam, I realized my toddler was asking for ketchup.
It seems as though things are worse now than ever. It doesn’t take long to find something that we should all be worried about. Just look at the state of our political system, worldwide pandemics, and supply chain issues. The examples seem endless. Some people are more prone to worry than others, and financial markets have always been quick to worry about what will happen next. The major media outlets don’t do much to help with all this worry. Over the years they have finely honed their ability to word headlines in a way that prompt us to pay attention. We are bombarded with headlines and news bits that make it seem as though things continue to get worse. The same is true for the financial news. The headlines at times overstate the severity of financial events to get us to pay attention. No wonder so many of us worry. I would argue there is no more (and probably no less) to worry about now than in the past. It feels like it is worse because we are in the middle of it, and our access to news / commentary has increased dramatically. The constant flow of information can be overwhelming, and it is hard to determine what to believe with so many opposing views. In many cases a convincing argument can be made on many sides of the same issue. It is not always clear how to move forward with the information we are given. So, as an investor, how do you know what you should be doing to reach your long-term goals. Part of the answer is to work with a professional that can help remove some of the emotion from investing. In addition, having goals to reference back to will help you stay the course. Finally, having a financial professional that operates by a defined and repeatable process will help with the decisions you will be faced with. At Global Financial Partners, we would be honored to be the professionals to help you. We work hard to help our clients “Enjoy More, Worry Less”. As we approach the Christmas season, let’s take a few minutes to reflect on how good we have it. While there are things that could be better, there is so much to be thankful for. Take some time to spend with family and friends and be sure to discuss all the good things going on in the world. Merry Christmas!
www.financialpartner.net (936) 294-0201 • 1211 Financial Plaza • Huntsville Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a broker-dealer, member, FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services through Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, Inc., a registered investment advisor. Cambridge and Global Financial Partners are not affiliated. Cambridge does not provide tax advice.
December 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition 27
Along the Road Jesus in Cowboy Boots Take a look in Evergreen Cemetery on the south side of town in Paris, Texas. Among the 40,000 graves stands a truly unique 15-foot-tall memorial marking the grave of Willet Babcock. Babcock was a New Yorker who served as a lieutenant for the Union Army in the Civil War, but then ended up in Paris, Texas. He was a furniture and casket maker with a factory and downtown store. His store doubled as the town Opera House, with a 1200 seat theater on the second floor. Known for his sense of humor, Babcock did something unusual before his death in 1881. He commissioned Gustave Klein, a German immigrant master-stonecutter, to build a memorial for his grave with a Texas twang—a Jesus-like figure sporting cowboy boots.
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Call or Text 713-570-6095 28 Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition | December 2021
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December 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition 29
The Garden Post By Kim Bius
Let Heaven and Nature Sing We thank our Creator for blessing gardeners with a varied palette of colors, plants, and the natural beauty of our environment to be our workplace…..wonders never cease! Now is the time, to plant trees and Now is an excellent time to see fall color at the nurseries before planting. Planting in late fall gives gardeners 6 months of cool rainy weather before the heat of summer returns. Planting now also allows for fewer “waterings” between rains, giving newly planted trees a higher probability of surviving if a consistent form of irrigation is not available. After planting, apply root stimulator by Fertilome. This is a great product that feeds the root system to encourage immediate growth, to help anchor the tree and begin sending nutrients upward…and is also a great product on ailing plants. The dosage of nitrogen is low, and you use 4 tablespoons per 3’ of plant height. This is a “must” on large trees over 3” caliber and transplanted trees and shrubs. Use on planting and again in 6 weeks. Yes, this can be applied in the winter months. This is also the best time to plant azaleas and camellias, for the same reasons. Both plants have “zero” drought tolerance and respond well to cooler temperatures and less intense heat. Camellias will do best if planted in a northern exposure, but will also do well when placed in an area that is shady after 1:00 pm. Camellias are available in two varieties: sasanqua and japonica. Sasanqua bloom November through January, with single to semi-double blooms with visible stamens. Japonica bloom from mid- February through early April and are more compact in growth, displaying full-double blooms that are so perfect, they do not seem real. Note: both varieties will show buds months before the plants go into bloom. We have many new folks moving into our area, and we have the privilege of teaching “Texas Gardening 101.” Southeast Texas has a 12-month planting season, although August and February can be a bit extreme in temperatures. Placing the plant in the correct sunlight, drainage, temperature, and water are the most important factors. Soil can be amended. It is a safe bet to say 85% of plant fatalities are caused by one of the above conditions not being met, and the remaining 15% is disease/infestation, which is easily cured with a bit of preventative care. No garden column in December would be complete without the proper care of poinsettias. Poinsettias are tropical plants, originally found in the tropical forest of north Mexico and brought into production in the USA as a remembrance of the Christmas miracle. The star shaped leaves represent the star of Bethlehem, and the red color represents the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Poinsettias are produced in a variety of colors and require high light, temperatures above 50 degrees, and do not allow to dry out or allow water to stand in a foil. In their native habitat, poinsettias will grow to 10’ tall and bloom From December through 30 Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition | December 2021
Red Poinsettia
Debutante Camellia
Winter Rose Poinsettia February. Today, these beauties are force-bloomed in indoor growing facilities to be ready for market the week of Thanksgiving. Keep in mind, the center yellow brachts are the actual flower, and the red leaves are the foliage. Always choose closed or barely open brachts to keep the plant longer. Do not keep poinsettias in a dark area with no natural light; this will make them die off much quicker. A popular myth is that the milky substance of the plant is poisonous, but research shows the plant not to be fatally toxic, but can cause severe stomach irritation to small animals. ‘Tis the season of thanksgiving and miracles. Wishing you the merriest Christmas filled with love, laughter and health.
The Grands
Betty Jo STEVENS
1 What is your grandparent name, and does it have a special meaning? DeeDee. My first nephew died of leukemia and he called me Dee, so the other nephews and nieces called me Aunt Dee. When my daughter was born, I named her Karen Dee, and she named her daughter Abby Deeann. It seemed natural to choose DeeDee as a grandmother name! 2 Number of grandchildren and age range? For many years there have been 12, seven girls and five boys, and we called them DeeDee’s Dozen. My son Dan and his wife just adopted a little girl, so now I have a Baker’s Dozen! My oldest granddaughter is 27 and the youngest is 4. I also have one great grandchild
and more on the way - we are starting on the second dozen! 4
Favorite activity with grandkids? DeeDee Camp! When the kids were growing up, I would host all the grandkids every summer for “camp.” We did brown bag skits, waterslides, scavenger hunts, games and day trips. Ten years and tons of memories!
5 Advice to other/new grandparents? Enjoy them all you can, because you will turn around and they’re 27! 6 What do you hope your grandchildren remember about you? That faith and family are so important. 7 What’s your fondest memory of your grandparents? I only knew one - my granddaddy, Theodore Hall. Just spending time with him in his garden was special, and when I was in college, he would cook lunch for me several times a week - just him and me.
Funded in part by a grant from the City of Conroe. December 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition 31
Creative Corner
Remember to Breathe By Linda W. Perkins
Snowflakes drift
Trapped in its cocoon.
Across the frosted glass
How hard the waiting
As I peer out
Alone in darkness
Looking for sunshine
Pushing towards the light
Longing for warmth.
With all of my might.
A frozen rosebud
This too shall pass
Reminds me
I know that’s true
It was spring once
But oh, to keep my strength
Not too long ago.
In this season of change
I want to go back
To survive the metamorphosis
But time pushes me forward.
I must remind myself
I know that soon
To hold on to hope
A butterfly will emerge
And remember to breathe.
From the long winter
32 Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition | December 2021
“Seens” from our World
She takes her time, no bones about it!
Am I the only one kinda put off by this?
Seen by: Justin Schubert
Seen by: Emily Langley
We want to see what you’ve seen! When you see the unusual, funny or absurd, break out your camera, take a picture, and submit to us with a description at:
PostcardsLive.com
Merry Christmas offalyop.com 281-731-6974 December 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition 33
What’s Cookin’ Spinach Appetizers Ingredients 1 (10 oz) pkg frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained 2 cups dry bread stuffing mix 3 eggs, beaten ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese ½ onion, chopped 2 Tbs melted butter ¼ cup shredded Cheddar cheese
Snowballs Ingredients 1 cup butter ½ cup confectioners’ sugar ¼ tsp salt 1 tsp vanilla extract 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour 1 cup chopped pecans 1/3 cup confectioners’ sugar for dusting, or as needed ¼ cup finely crushed peppermint candy canes (optional)
Directions Step 1: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Step 2: Cream the butter with 1/2 cup of the confectioners’ sugar and the vanilla. Mix in the flour, pecans, and salt. Roll about 1 tablespoon or so of dough into balls and place on an ungreased cookie sheet. Step 3: Bake in preheated oven until bottoms are golden, about 15 minutes. Do not allow these cookies to get too brown: it’s better to undercook them than to overcook them. While cookies are still hot, roll them in confectioners’ sugar. Once they have cooled, roll them in confectioners’ sugar once more.
Bakers Tip: To keep bread warm, place a sheet of aluminum foil under a cloth napkin in the bread basket.
34 Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition | December 2021
Directions Step 1: In a large bowl, mix together chopped spinach, dry bread stuffing mix, eggs, Parmesan cheese, onion, butter and Cheddar cheese. Cover and chill in the refrigerator approximately 30 minutes. Step 2: Drop the mixture by rounded spoonful onto a lightly greased large baking sheet. Place baking sheet in the freezer approximately 1 hour. Step 3: When ready to bake, allow the balls to partially thaw, about 30 minutes. Step 4: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly grease a large baking sheet. Step 5: Bake the balls in the preheated oven 20 to 25 minutes, or until lightly browned.
Grandma’s Christmas Meatballs Ingredients 3 lbs ground beef chuck 1 (14 oz) can evaporated milk 1 (1 oz) pkg onion soup mix ¼ cup dry breadcrumbs, or as needed 1 Tbs Worcestershire sauce 2 cups ketchup 1 cup brown sugar ½ cup port wine 1 Tbs Worcestershire sauce
Festive Olive and Cheese Appetizer Ingredients 24 sprigs fresh rosemary 12 oz marinated mozzarella balls, drained ½ cup pitted Castelvetrano olives, rinsed and dried ¼ cup pitted Kalamata olives, rinsed and drained ¼ cup sugar plum tomatoes toothpicks
Directions Step 1: Mix ground chuck, evaporated milk, onion soup mix, breadcrumbs, and 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce together in a bowl. Refrigerate for 1 hour. Form approximately 40 small meatballs and place on a baking sheet. Step 2: Set the oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source and preheat the oven’s broiler.
Directions Step 1: Cut rosemary sprigs and arrange into a 10-inch wreath. Start by placing 1 sprig at a 45-degree angle with the tip facing outwards. Continue adding sprigs in the same direction until you have formed a full circle. Step 2: Arrange clusters of mozzarella balls, olives, and tomatoes over the rosemary. Serve with toothpicks on the side.
Step 3: Broil meatballs until just browned, 2 to 3 minutes. Turn meatballs over and continue broiling until browned on other side, about 2 minutes more. Step 4: Transfer meatballs to a slow cooker. Step 5: Combine ketchup, brown sugar, port wine, and 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook and stir until dissolved, about 2 minutes. Pour over the meatballs in the slow cooker. Cook on High until meatballs are no longer pink in the middle and the sauce is thick, at least 1 hour.
Bakers Tip: For moist colorful stuffing, add one diced unpeeled apple to your favorite dressing recipe
December 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition 35
Christmas Cheer
ginger, and spice sachet to cider mixture and steep for 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Step 3: Pour 1 fluid ounce bourbon into each mug and top off with spiced cider. Rub the edge of each mug with orange peel and drop into the drink.
10 whole cloves 8 cardamom pods, lightly crushed 8 whole allspice berries 2 whole star anise pods 1 (64 fl oz) bottle apple cider 16 fl oz cranberry juice cocktail ¼ cup brown sugar 2 cinnamon sticks 4 1/8 inch piece fresh ginger, cut into thin slices 10 fl oz bourbon 10 2-inch strips orange peel
Directions Step 1: Tie cloves, cardamom pods, allspice berries, and star anise together in a cheesecloth sachet. Step 2: Combine apple cider, cranberry juice, and brown sugar together in a pot; bring to a simmer. Add cinnamon sticks,
COLLEGE OF ARTS & MEDIA FALL 2021 DECEMBER Dance
WINTER DANCE SHOWCASE
December 1 | 7 p.m. Dance Theater, GPAC Free Admission Art
STUDIO ART, PHOTOGRAPHY, AND ANIMATION SENIOR EXHIBITION
December 2 -11 | Reception following Commencement Ceremony University Gallery Free Admission
College of Arts & Media
CAM ARTIST SERIES: HOLIDAY CONCERT FEATURING HOUSTON JAZZ ORCHESTRA WITH SINGER ANTHONY CACERES
December 2 & 3 | 7:30 p.m. Payne Concert Hall, GPAC
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December 9 -11 Reception | TBD Satellite Gallery Free Admission
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1216 University Avenue Huntsville, TX 77304 Thursday - Friday | 12 p.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday | 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. FOR TICKETS & INFORMATION shsutickets.com | tickets@shsu.edu | 936.294.2339 To view our full list of events, visit shsu.edu/CAM
36 Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition | December 2021
0
Corn and Porcini Mushroom Cornbread Dressing
f e
Ingredients
A 1
cooking spray ½ cup dried porcini mushrooms 1 cup hot tap water ¾ cup all-purpose flour ¾ cup yellow cornmeal ¼ cup white sugar 1 tsp fine salt ½ tsp baking soda ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper 1 pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste
Directions Step 1: Place mushrooms in a small bowl, cover with hot water, and allow to soak until mushrooms have softened, about 30 minutes. Remove mushrooms from the bowl, squeeze to drain, and chop finely. Step 2: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Step 3: Whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, salt, baking soda, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a large bowl. Step 4: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped mushrooms and stir until lightly cooked and softened, 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool for 10 minutes.
½ cup unsalted butter 2 large eggs 1 cup buttermilk ¼ cup milk 1 (16 oz) pkg frozen corn, thawed and drained ¼ cup chopped green onions
Step 5: Stir eggs, buttermilk, and milk into flour mixture. Add mushroom mixture and corn; stir until well mixed. Fold in green onions. Transfer batter to the prepared baking dish and tap on a flat work surface 2 to 3 times to remove any air bubbles. Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven until golden on top, 30 to 35 minutes. A paring knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
Coconut Cream Pie Ingredients 1 (9 inch) pie shell, baked 1 (5 oz) pkg instant vanilla pudding mix 1 ½ cups milk 1 ½ cups flaked coconut 1 (8 oz) container frozen whipped topping, thawed
Directions Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the pudding mix and milk until the pudding mixture thickens. Fold 1 cup of coconut and half of the nondairy whipped topping into the pudding. Pour the combination into the prepared pie crust. Step 2: Spread the remainder of the nondairy whipped topping on top of the pie. Sprinkle with the remainder of the coconut. Refrigerate, and serve chilled. December 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition 37
Giggles & Grins What did the tree say to autumn? Please leaf me alone!
What is the best thing to put into a pumpkin pie? Your teeth of course!
How do you fix a broken pumpkin? With a pumpkin patch!
What is a scarecrow’s favorite type of fruit? Straw-berries!
What did one autumn leaf say to another? I’m falling for you!
What is the cutest of all seasons? Awwwtumn!
How do trees get on the internet? They log in!
What animal has more lives than a cat? A frog, because it croaks every night.
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December 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition 39
Business Focus Story by Linda W. Perkins Photos by Gina Turner
Clipped by Rainey B. B While the COVID-19 pandemic shuttered some businesses in 2020, it was the perfect time for Rainey Beaumier to open her own hair salon, Clipped by Rainey B. Tucked away in a private room within Pure Salon Studios at 3000 W. Davis in Conroe, Rainey was able to offer clients the ability to have their hair done in a quiet, beautiful, and sanitized space that didn’t expose them to other people who might be sick.
40 Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition | December 2021
“My priority is people’s comfort” “It’s a good thing not to have to put yourself at risk just to get your hair done,” she said, adding that she respects people’s opinions on how to protect themselves. “My priority is people’s comfort. If they want to wear a mask and have me wear one, I am fine with that. If they prefer not to, then I am fine with that, too.” Of course, comfort and privacy are both nice features, but the main reason Clipped by Rainey B. has flourished is Rainey’s masterful ways with hair and how she is able to achieve – and help clients maintain - the specific looks they desire. “There are lots of stylists out there who will do what a person asks them to do, but then when the client gets home, they have no idea how to get their hair to look like it did coming out of the salon. Teaching a client how to maintain their hair – from products they may need to styling techniques – is just as important as meeting a new person as a client. You can’t see that person as just ‘in and out the door.’ It’s about building a relationship.” When Rainey talks about client relationships, you can tell this is a passion for her, and she cites this as the number one reason she likes
owning her own business. She tells the story of a customer who was setting an appointment with another salon and, when they told her who would be doing her hair the next week, she realized she wasn’t talking to that person on the phone. In fact, the stylist wasn’t even there that day for her to talk to before the appointment. She didn’t like that and called Rainey. “I could see that she is one of those women who is cautious about where she goes and wants to know who she is talking to. That’s why she made that switch,” Rainey said. Rainey’s services range from hairstyling for homecoming and prom to cuts and color, including highlights and full bleaching. “My preference is doing cuts and color. Everyone is obsessed with my cuts. A lot of my customers have had horrible experiences (at other salons) and haven’t gotten their hair cut in years, and then when they get their hair cut (with me), they are comfortable and happy.” She prides herself in the products she uses. “All of my colors are organic, so they don’t have a bunch of chemicals that can be more harmful to your hair. The products are more natural and better for you. That’s one of the
explains is paramount to getting the right look. “A lot of people these days are afraid to get their hair cut because they tell the stylist one thing, and then the stylist does whatever she wants rather than what the client wants. That’s why I will ask a lot of questions and doublecheck to make sure I know exactly what they want,” she said. Before she does anything to a client’s hair, Rainey goes over everything, including how much they want off their length and what type of layering they want. “All these choices affect your lifestyle. A lot of women don’t want their hair in their face, but if you have medium layers, you may have hair in your face because it pops out more, it’s edgier, and it adds more volume and texture. So those are things you have to keep under consideration when you’re getting your hair done.”
“I really listen to my clients to make sure they feel heard” things I like about my color line, Matrix.” Rainey says the secret to her success is communication with the client, which she
“I really listen to my clients to make sure they feel heard. I take my time to make sure they don’t feel like something is going to happen that they don’t want. It’s all about their comfort zone and not making them feel they have to take a gigantic step if they don’t want
» December 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition 41
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to. When they want to look for new styles or ideas, I tell them to bring me examples of styles that would feel new and fresh to them, but at the same time, not too much of a jump.” Rainey explains that if someone changes their style too much, it can be jarring to their psyche. Nevertheless, if someone wants to go out of their comfort zone and is open to the experience of doing something completely different, she will do it for them. “I have a client who had me cut 18 inches off her hair, going from a girl next door look with super long hair to a short pixie style that has her own edginess added to it. She loves it, but that’s her. Not everyone is ready to make that big of a leap.”
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In addition to considering a customer’s personality, job and lifestyle, Rainey stated that being honest about how much upkeep and maintenance someone is willing to do on a daily basis is important. “They may want a certain style but really low maintenance way of taking care of it, but I will tell them the truth – that they can have that look, but they will need to use certain products and style it every day,” she explained. “Everybody wishes they could just wake up that way, but that’s the thing. If you want that kind of look, you’re going to have to put in the work.” 42 Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition | December 2021
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December 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition 43
Christmas Word Search
When they sit down for coffee, B U S I N E S S
O W N E R S
A G R E E . . .
IT PAYS TO ADVERTISE IN POSTCARDS MAGAZINE! ©9thewordsearch.com 3 6 - 2 9 3 - 1 44 Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition | December 2021
1 8 8
Things my Grandaddy said... One reason dollar bills wear out so quickly is because so many folks pass the buck.
Small deeds done are better than big deeds only planned.
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Vet Connect: By Steve VanWagner, D.V.M.
Colic in Horses The word “colic” simply refers to abdominal pain; while this is a very simple definition, colic itself can be hugely complex, ranging from gas pain to gastrointestinal (GI) obstruction. Colic is one of the most serious illnesses a horse can endure, and it is critical for horse owners to recognize the early signs, because the sooner the horse is seen and treated, the greater the chances of recovery. All colic begins with mild pain and subtle symptoms; however, those signs may be the early stages of a life-threatening situation and have dire consequences. Signs of colic in the horse vary, but can include not eating, yawning, restlessness, groaning, repeatedly curling the upper lip, looking at flank, continuous or intermittent pawing, circling, backing into corner or post, standing in a stretched position, lying down repeatedly rolling, and sweating excessively. Get your horse to the vet as quickly as possible. If it is a case of mild colic, the horse may be sent home in a few hours. If the colic is severe, expect days--and in the case of surgery--weeks. The important thing to realize is if colic may be the culprit, immediate action is necessary. Time is of the essence when a horse is colicky. Immediate medical attention is an absolute must. Here are a few simple guidelines while you wait for the veterinarian to come to you or as you prepare for your trip to the vet hospital. First, do not allow the horse to have access to hay or grain. Although interest in feed is a good sign, it could increase the severity of colic symptoms. Second, be prepared to provide your veterinarian as much information as possible such as clinical signs (pawing, sweating, rolling, etc) rectal temperature (normal between 98 - 101.0), heart rate (normal between 30-44 beats per minute) and the horse’s gum color (normally pink). Third, keep the horse comfortable. If the horse lies down and stays down quietly, even in an unusual position, leave him alone. If he wants to get up and change positions periodically and then lie down
46 Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition | December 2021
again, leave him alone. If he constantly gets up and down and tries to roll frequently, walk him around. If the horse seems comfortable with occasional walking, then continue. Be cautious of long-term or fast-paced walking, as it can actually tire the horse out and cause dehydration. Treatment for colic will vary depending on how long it has been going on, severity of clinical signs, vitals, and area of GI impaction. Intravenous fluids (IV) may be administered at a very high rate and volume, as well as using mineral oil and water passed through a nasogastric (NG) tube to get it into the stomach. Pain medications and GI stimulants may be administered to offer comfort in addition to helping the GI move the obstructed matter. In some cases, emergency surgery may be the only option. There are a few things the horse owner can do to reduce the risk of colic. 1) ensure horses always have access to fresh water; 2) feed good quality hay and grain; 3) be cautious when deworming with a routine regimen instead of according to the Fecal Egg Count (FEC), and never deworm using an Ivermectin product without an FEC being performed; 4) offer salt/mineral block to help increase water intake. In conclusion, being observant of your horse’s normal behavior, stool consistency, eating habits, and demeanor will help to quickly alert you to subtle changes that may require medical attention.
Wildlife Wonders
get UR Cut…
FACT OR FICTION? By Cheryl Conley Sometimes we hear things, and we just assume they’re correct. When we hear them as children, we can go through our entire lives believing them. We even pass that information on to our own children. Let’s dispel some of those old wives’ tales or myths we’ve heard about animals. • The #1 myth I hear is you should never touch a baby bird, because you’ll leave your scent on them and mama bird will reject them. NOT TRUE. It’s never good to touch baby birds at any time unless you are rescuing the bird. If this is the case, the baby should be taken to a wildlife organization. • You can get warts if you touch a toad. NOT TRUE. Toads don’t have warts, so passing them to a human would be impossible. Toads have little glands covering their bodies that look like warts. They secrete a foul tasting, toxic, antibiotic fluid that protects them from predators and illnesses. • Have you ever seen a picture of an opossum hanging upside down by the tail? In real life, this is NOT TRUE. Their tails are very important and aid in balance and holding on to things but they do not hang by them. • Touching a butterfly’s wings will cause it to die. NOT TRUE. Butterflies look delicate, but they’re actually tough little creatures. Their wings have thousands of scales on them, and losing a few here and there may slow them down and make it a little harder to fly, but it doesn’t kill them. Afterall, they do have to withstand wind, storms, brushing up against plants and bushes, and spiderwebs. Please don’t touch them, though. If they lose too many scales, they can die. •
Animals have thicker coats in the fall if a severe winter is expected. NOT TRUE. The rate of hair growth and thickness has nothing to do with weather.
•
Ostriches bury their heads in the sand because they believe
if they can’t see you, you can’t see them. People say it’s a defense mechanism. NOT TRUE. Ostriches don’t stick their heads in the sand. How would they breathe? •
Use tomato juice if you get sprayed by a skunk. It will remove the odor. NOT TRUE. Anyone who has ever tried this found out very quickly that it doesn’t work. There are options available that will work, but tomato juice isn’t one of them.
•
You can only be stung by a bee once, and then it dies. NOT TRUE. Let me clarify. This is true for honeybees, but honeybees make up a very small percentage of all bee species. All other bee species can sting you over and over. Ouch!
•
Rabbits LOVE carrots. NOT TRUE. Sure, they’ll eat them…but if given a choice, rabbits prefer leafy vegies. Sure, Bugs Bunny is always seen eating a carrot (and perhaps that is how this myth got started) but in reality, carrots are not a favorite.
• The age of a ladybug can be determined by counting the black spots on the wings. Others think the number of black spots indicate how many months will pass before meeting their true love. NOT TRUE. Entomologists believe the black spots are a warning to other creatures that the ladybug tastes bad. Don’t eat me or you’ll be sorry! •
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Bats are blind. Have you ever heard or used the phrase, “blind as a bat”? NOT TRUE. Bats are not blind. ‘Nuf said.
Next time you hear something about animals that seems a little far-fetched, it’s probably inaccurate. Research it. Learn about the animals we share our world with.
Dawn 936-672-5060 Tony 765-385-8888 December 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition 47
CALENDAR
December
Thru 19 Palestine The Grinch’s Lair
4
Huntsville Christmas Fair and Winter in the Park
huntsvillemainstreet.com
texasjailhouse.com
Huntsville Lion’s Club Annual Christmas Parade
Thru 23 Galveston Polar Express Train Ride
936-402-4249
galvestonrrmuseum.org
Thru 26 Palestine Polar Express Train Ride
4-5
Humble Home for the Holidays Gift Market
homefortheholidaysgiftmarket.com
texasstaterailroad.net
6-24 Houston “The Little Mermaid”
2-12
tuts.com
Conroe Bethlehem City
wcbc.us/bethlehem-city
3
Corsicana Crystal Gayle
Huntsville Moe Bandy oldtowntheatre-huntsville.org
Huntsville
Club Market
7 thru Jan 4 Conroe Affordable Art conroeartleague.com
9
“The Elf on the Shelf – The Christmas Musical”
10
Huntsville
Sugar Land smartfinancialcentre.net
Journey Through Bethlehem
journeythroughbethlehem.com
3-5
The Woodlands
facebook.com/bigtopentertainment
corsicanapalace.com
3-4
7
Galveston
Janie Fricke
oldtowntheatre-huntsville.org
Dickens on the Strand
Huntsville
galvestonhistory.org
3-19
chamber.huntsville.tx.us
Conroe “A Christmas Story, The Musical”
owentheatre.com
Conroe
10-12 Madisonville The Pathway of Light
Tomball
“Elf, The Musical”
crightontheatre.org
87th Annual Chamber Gala and Auction
thepathwayoflight.com
German Christmas Market
tomballgermanfest.org
Due to concerns over the spread of coronavirus, some events may have schedule changes. Please make sure to check the event website, social media, or call ahead to confirm an event is still taking place if you are interested in attending.
”
11
Brenham Celtic Angels Christmas
thebarnhillcenter.com
Huntsville Houston Family Christmas
samhoustonmemorialmuseum.com
Madisonville Annual Christmas Parade
madisonvilletexas.us
17
Corsicana Asleep at the Wheel
corsicanapalace.com
Lufkin Celtic Angels Christmas
angelinaarts.org
17-18 Galveston The Temptations in Concert thegrand.com
21
Sugar Land
26
Sugar Land
31
Spring
Pentatonix smartfinancialcentre.net
Mannheim Steamroller smartfinancialcentre.net
The Four Freshmen in Concert
cypresscreekface.org
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December 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition 49
Mustard Seed Moments by Linda W. Perkins
A Light in the Darkness Every Christmas Eve, my family heads over to church to celebrate the birth of Jesus. It is a special time. The best moment of all is when they turn all the lights off; then, as one candle is lit, and then passed on, the room begins to glow. It is beautiful, and it reminds us of how far God’s love can go as it is passed from person to person. Jesus truly is the light of the world! As special as this candle lighting ceremony is, it is so easy to forget during the rest of the year. How often do we really think about how powerful God’s light is? It is not small and fragile like a candlewick that can easily be snuffed out. No, it is more like the sun, which has enough power and reach to illuminate planets hundreds of millions of miles away. When I was camping recently, I was struck at just how important light is to our lives. Sitting in our tent, in pitch-black darkness, I could hear packs of coyotes yipping and howling. At times they seemed far away, but other times, they sounded way too close for comfort. The bathhouse was a five-minute walk down a wooded trail, but I was not prepared to venture out into the darkness, unsure of what dangers might be lurking there. My husband was more prepared than I. He wasn’t relying on a tiny
50 Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition | December 2021
cellphone flashlight. He had a more powerful torch that cut through the darkness, illuminating the path ahead. With him – and his light – at my side, I had nothing to fear. The dangers were not as close as I thought they were, and as long as we could see, we were empowered to defend against any foes we might encounter. Too often in life, we are blinded by the darkness of the world. We allow ourselves to be sucked into the abyss of fear and trepidation, temptation and sin. When we remember God is by our side, we can tap into His light. He illuminates our path, giving us peace; and in His light, our unseen enemies flee. When we lean into God’s light, darkness loses its power, and we can clearly see the path God has laid out for our lives.
“You, Lord, are my lamp; the Lord turns my darkness into light.” – 2 Samuel 22:29 “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” – Psalm 119:105 “When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.’” – John 8:12
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