August September 2021 Ellis County Living Magazine

wedding Issue www.living-magazine.com

Celebrating 10 Years in Ellis County!

Terry Wooten 214.949.9285 MORTGAGE CENTER MANAGER NMLS 224831 Terry.Wooten@GatewayLoan.com

Tom Ker 972.365.7022 LOAN ORIGINATOR NMLS 356892 Tom.Ker@GatewayLoan.com

Adrian Sanchez 469.628.3868 LOAN ORIGINATOR NMLS 643358 Adrian.Sanchez@GatewayLoan.com

Matt Authier 903.654.0145 LOAN ORIGINATOR NMLS 1527367 Matt.Authier@GatewayLoan.com

Danny Gildea 972.921.5569 LOAN ORIGINATOR NMLS 1903297 Danny.Gildea@GatewayLoan.com

Matt Helms 903.641.9838 LOAN ORIGINATOR NMLS 1696114 Matt.Helms@GatewayLoan.com

Lance Wallace 903.571.9869 MORTGAGE SALES MANAGER NMLS 1146461 Lance.Wallace@GatewayLoan.com

Jeff Schmidt 817.681.7897 REGIONAL VP – NORTH TX NMLS 91368 Jeff.Schmidt@GatewayLoan.com

Office: 972.937.2200 1332 W. Hwy 287 Bypass, Suites 1 & 4 | Waxahachie, TX 75165 www.gatewayloan.com/waxahachie-tx

Gateway Mortgage, a division of Gateway First Bank. NMLS 7233.

Presents the 17th Annual

Bridal Extravaganza Market Sunday, September 19, 2021 12pm - 4pm Admission $5

Waxahachie Civic Center 2000 Civic Center Lane

Now Accepting Vendor Applications For more details: 469-309-4040 or visit waxahachieciviccenter.org

Old Bison Ranch

Your Perfect Wedding Venue Awaits

STEPHANIE ROSE PHOTOGRAPHY

Milagro Farms

PHOTO BY KINSLENS

Two Venues • Two Choices • Call Today for a Tour!

972.217.9427 | greenery.weddings@gmail.com www.MilagroFarms.com | www.OldBisonRanchTX.com

“ Contents August- September 2021 |

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volume 17

OUR BELOVED WEDDING ISSUE What a season it has been and even more to come with the next. As we wrap up Summer and head into Fall it’s fun to reflect as well as plan Weddings. From decor, cake, venues and more it’s a joy to see new love grow. Speaking of growing, no matter what season of life we are in, it’s always important to be in touch with your health. We have some great articles this issue to help build your knowledge and strengthen your well-being. Enjoy!

- Cindy

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issue 4

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LIFE + STYLE FOOD REVIEW • 10 Dinner with Danny - English Merchant’s Parlour BAKING • 12 7 Common Wedding Cake Myths Dismissed FEATURE JENNIFER + JOSH • 16 Wedding Day Beauty KAT + SOLOMON • 18 Sharing What We Love with Who We Love

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BETHANY + WADE • 20 Micro Wedding in the Las Vegas Desert

MEDICAL DR. TRINH • 38 Sports Medicine in Ellis County

FASHION • 26 Weddings & What to Wear

DR. ISKANDAR, DR. KELLY, AND DR. ROYE • 40 Could Sleeve Gastrectomy Surgery Be the Key to Your Weight-Loss Success?

HOME + GARDEN DUCKWORTH INTERIORS • 28 Creating a Master Bedroom Oasis JINA ARMSTRONG • 32 Just Grow with It

DR. GORMAN • 42 Breast Cancer Staging: What You Need to Know

AUG/SEPT TIPS • 36 Planting/Growing Guide for the Season

LA FIN CINDY BURCH • 44 My Wedding Day

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ECLM Contributors 4

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5 6

3

1

Mica Daleiden (1) is a wife, girl mom, and owner of Casus Clothing and Casus Digital.

I love the “art” in everything; life, clothing, shoes, web design, photography, the list goes on. Midlothian native, Tarleton grad, and explorer of all things.

Angel Schiffer (2) is the owner and creator of Bittersweet Bakery in Waxahachie, Texas.

An Ellis County native and 3rd generation business owner, she lives Bittersweet. Most days you can find her in her shop sporting pink crocs and wearing baking ingredients as an accessory. She is a hands on business owner who puts her touches and artistry into every delicacy that comes out of the oven. When she’s not at the shop she enjoys spending time with her family & handsome young Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Leo. Dinner with Danny (3) Longtime Waxahachie resident Danny Knight is a small business owner & member of the Waxahachie Police Department. To make suggestions on where he should dine next for a review, message him through the Dinner with Danny Facebook page or email dinnerwithdannywax@gmail.com.

5 Kate Duckworth (4) is the President and Principal Designer of Duckworth Interiors, a full-service interior design firm located in Ennis, TX. With over a decade of design experience in highend residential, new construction selections, model homes and remodels, she finds joy in creating spaces her clients love. Kate specializes in designing interiors that look magazine-worthy and feel like home.

Follow her at www.duckworthinteriors.com or @duckworthinteriors.

Jina Armstrong (5) Jina is a lifetime resident of Ennis, TX. She loves to find the light and beauty in the ordinary things. With many years as an experienced photographer, she has been able to document things of beauty, and showcase them to her community. She and her husband, Andy, have spent several seasons evolving and growing their vegetable and flower garden, and love to share their tips, tricks, and harvest with all.

You can follow their journey through gardening & photography @jinaarmstrong & @jinaarmstrongphotography Cindy Burch (6) and her husband, Andrew, own and operate The Doves Nest in historic downtown Waxahachie. Cindy is also a freelance writer, caterer and consultant. Her awardwinning cookbook, “The Doves Nest Restaurant: New American Recipes From A Historic Texas Town,” is in its fifth printing.

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YOUR TRUSTED SOURCE FOR ELLIS COUNTY LIFESTYLE, HOME AND COMMUNITY SINCE 2005

Cindy Camp | Publisher | Publisher@living-magazine.com is wife, mom & boss who brings to fruition all types of endeavors (she is a true Queen).

A fierce, natural leader who enjoys all sides of business while also loves relaxing by the pool, taking a trip or simply having her fur-baby by her side.

Lindsey Keeney | Creative Director | Lindsey@living-magazine.com is an Aggie who was lucky enough to move back to her hometown and start her dream job here at ECLM which she has been an amazing asset to for 8 years! With a big love for family, concerts, traveling & the outdoors it’s easy to see where her creativity comes from.

Carly Pechal | Art Director | Carly@living-magazine.com is a wife, mom & designer who loves all forms of art and creating. Spending time with her familiy, tending to her plants + garden, & will gladly accept any invitation to the beach, she finds so much joy in lifes simple blessings.

Living

ELLIS COUNTY

Ellis County Living Magazine is published bi-monthly by ECL Media, Inc.© using only environmentally-friendly ink.

Staff photos by Grant Duckworth Photography

Copyright 2021, ECL Media, Inc.© All rights reserved.

A special thanks to all of our contributing writers.

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MAGAZINE

Cover Photo By Angela Germany Photography www.angelagermanyphotography.com IG @angelagermanyphoto

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021

No portion of Ellis County Living Magazine shall be reprinted in any other publication without permission. The views expressed herein should not be construed as medical advice. Please consult your physician.

We are proud members of the Waxahachie, Ennis, Midlothian and Red Oak Chambers of Commerce.

Follow us on Instagram: @EllisCountyLiving facebook.com/EllisCountyLiving pinterest.com/ECLivingmag twitter.com/ECLiving For advertising information, please contact Ellis County Living Magazine at 972.935.0938 or info@living-magazine.com.

ASK US ABOUT OUR

$99 WHITENING SPECIAL

CALL US FOR A CONSULTATION 972-298-8515 WILLIAM A. BROWN, D.D.S. F.A.G.D. General Dentistry 226 N. Cedar Ridge Rd. Duncanville, TX 75116 williamabrowndds@gmail.com

www.WilliamABrownDDS.com

Danny

DINNER WITH

REVIEW BY DANNY KNIGHT

We visited English Merchant’s Parlour on a Thursday evening around 7:00.

To say the place was jumping is an understatement. Fortunately, we were told ahead of time to make reservations.

We were greeted at the door by the bartender.

He welcomed us and asked if was our first visit. He then explained that the vibe is a 60’s Themed British Invasion. He was dressed like John Lennon, round sunglasses and all. He showed us a few of the special cocktails they make and then we were shown to our table.

Our waitress was friendly wearing bright yellow sundress, continuing the 60’s theme. The decorations are over the top 60’s with plush couches and chairs for each table. It’s a really neat atmosphere.

We ordered drinks, I had the Bloody Good Mule and our friends had a mule and a glass of Champagne. The drinks were spot on. We also ordered the Charcuterie Board and the Fancy English Sausage Rolls. The sausage rolls stole the show for appetizers The crust was flakey and delicious and the sausage inside was the perfect compliment. Our friends ordered the Artisan Cheese Board. The cheese board was good, we should have ordered the charcuterie board and cheese board to come out together or possibly they could come up with a combo with a little of each.

The special for the night was braised short ribs. They were very tender and full of flavor. The presentation on the plate was nice.

I would definitely order it again.

All in all we had a good experience. It is a little pricey so we will save it for a special occasion.

If you’re looking for a unique date night idea, give them a try, I think you will be pleased.

ENGLISH MERCHANT’S PARLOUR (254) 366-0229 109 N. ROGERS ST. WAXAHACHIE, TX

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Common Wedding 7 Cake Myths DISMISSED

STORY BY ANGEL SCHIFFER

Wedding cake tasting is easily the best part of the wedding process, you know, aside from the whole spending the rest of your life with your soulmate thing - but before you dive fork first into your fluffy cake coma let’s discuss 7 common wedding cake myths

1 “The brides cake must be white!”

This applies to both the flavor and the color itself. In the last few years especially we’ve seen stunning bold wedding cakes in every color scheme. Whether it’s an accent tier in your favorite tone from your wedding palette or a statement cake in a deep hue like navy or black, long gone is the idea that your cake must be stark white. As far as the inside goes the same rule applies. If you want chocolate cake with peanut butter mousse, do it. Get the chocolate cake with peanut butter mousse. Do what you love not what you think you need to love. On that note..

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2 “Aunt Sally doesn’t like raspberry so we can’t do raspberry”

This isn’t Aunt Sally’s wedding - unless maybe she is paying for it then I respectfully take it back. This is your day! I’m going to say it again for everyone in the back. Choose the cake you love and not the cake that you think everyone else will love. Don’t base your decision on one person that may or may not like it.

3 “If the cake isn’t made the morning of my wedding, it isn’t fresh” As much as we’d like to believe that as bakers we can simply waive our wands and bibbidi bobbidi boo a cake out it simply doesn’t happen that way. Cake takes time and often tastes better and is softer after it has had proper time to rest. If you’re unsure ask your baker about their process and the optimal time to serve and store their cake as it will vary from artist to artist.

4 “I want a naked cake but that means less frosting”

If you love the style don’t let the idea of less frosting be the reason to stop you from ordering it. The way a wedding cake is sliced the majority of your servings won’t even come from that exterior edge anyway.

5 “I have to save and freeze the top tier of my wedding cake!”

Should you choose to take part in the tradition of saving your top tier to eat on your anniversary there’s another option. Simply save your design notes and order a replica from your same baker a year later. This way you keep the tradition alive but also you’re not eating frozen cake that’s a year old. Win win.

6 “We want a grooms cake but the groom doesn’t like cake”

You don’t have to do cake! You can do other desserts in lieu of a grooms cake. Ask your baker what other treats they offer or if they have a trusted source to recommend if they don’t. Be careful as some bakeries don’t allow outside desserts to be served along theirs so always check!

7 “We have 200 people coming to the wedding so we need cake for 200 people”

Our rule of thumb is to serve 60-80 percent of your guest list. However, be honest with your baker about how many people are actually on your guest list so that they can give you the best advice on how many servings you will need. Your baker will know their cake the best and will be able to properly guide you if given the correct information.

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Kat + Solomon

SHARING WHAT WE LOVE WITH WHO WE LOVE

What made our wedding so special was how personalized it was to who we are as a couple.

Solomon and I had a small budget for the wedding so our decisions were all surrounded by making it about our faith and feeling like us!

We wanted our guests to get a picture of who we are as a couple and to have a lot of fun. To do that, we had a jar of questions at every table to facilitate conversations, because we used to carry around a deck of question cards around with us when we were dating to get to know each other better.

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We also had a tables of board games for people to play, because we love game nights and that’s how we met!

We love that our wedding details were knit together by friends and family.

Kat and her bridesmaids put together the boutonnières and bouquets the morning of the wedding, Kat’s family set up and decorated the venue, Solomon’s coworker made our cake, and his friend was our DJ! We just had so much fun!

“God was so sweet to us that day.

What we remember the most was the spirit of joy and togetherness that covered the day!”

Looking back, we wouldn’t change a thing about that day because it was perfect.

Vendors: Venue: Arrowwood Wedding + Events Dress: Azazie Flowers: HEB Solomons Ring: Manly Bands Kat’s Ring: Cool Ring Jewelry on Etsy Food: Dominos Photographer: Angela Germany Photography

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Jennifer + Josh

WEDDING DAY BEAUTY

When Josh and I were deciding what we wanted to do for our wedding, it was fairly easy for us to choose a theme that we both connected with as children - Beauty and the Beast. We wanted to incorporate small touches that hinted at our favorite Disney movie without being too obvious. Our coordinator, Mary Wintermote, brought our dreams to life at Stem & Light.

Using red roses, she built bouquets, boutonnieres, decor for the cake, and lovely additions to the twisted willows that framed our ceremony. My mom gave us a large version of encased roses that matched our wedding favors and was the perfect prop for some of our photos. The only undeniable Beauty and the Beast feature was the cake topper. It glittered in gold and showcased our wedding date and last name.

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BEFORE

Josh and I were very happy with how our wedding came together. Mary had a special touch as she placed all the elements of our day throughout the venue, and she made certain that everyone present signed our “guestbook”, a matte that we later framed with a group photo from the day. The Stem & Light greenhouse was a wonderful photo op. Some of our favorite photos were made there by Rebecca while I wore a white cape over my dress in a bit of a nod to Belle.

Special tokens included in our day: His ring - the One Ring from Lord of the Rings - Josh chose this because we began talking to each other focused on our mutual love for the series.

My mom’s ribbons - She had saved

the bouquet ribbons from her 1979 wedding to my dad. Mary wrapped some around my bouquet and used others to add touches throughout the decor in the venue.

Champagne Flutes - We found these at an Etsy shop in Hungary. The only time I took them out of the box before the wedding was to make sure they were intact.

Our day was a fabulous blend of our personalities, memories and love for each other.

Vendors: Venue: Stem & Light Photographer: Rebecca Chesney Cake: Bittersweet Bakery Bride’s Gown: Bella Brides Groom’s Suit: Men’s Wearhouse, Cedar Hill Invitations/Florals/Coordination: Mary Kate & Co Hair: Marisa R for Phoenix Beauty Team Makeup: Sarah Kennedy for Phoenix Beauty Team

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Bethany + Wade

MICRO WEDDING IN THE LAS VEGAS DESERT

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​ s an adventure seeker born and raised A in the small Czech town of Ennis, Texas, I never thought I would be the type to marry someone from my hometown. Through divine intervention, I met Wade in the most small town way imaginable – my sister bought his parents’ house and friendships were made throughout the transaction.

We began dating while I finished college at The University of North Texas and it was like finding someone who was the perfect combination of adventure and feeling like home.

After years of dating, we made the decision together to get married. We knew we wanted something intimate, nontraditional and fun. There was no question on the destination. We were going to Las Vegas and we did just that!

Our ceremony took place at The Valley of Fire State Park, about one hour from the Las Vegas strip! During the planning process, I stumbled across the social media page @elopementlasvegas whose focus offers unique wedding package options for couples interested in an elopement or micro wedding in and around Las Vegas.

We were instantly hooked on the idea of an exclusive small-scale wedding right outside the most fun city in the U.S with our closest friends and family. We planned it in two months and ELV took care of all ceremony aspects while providing excellent vendor referrals for the party bus, glam team and dinner.

I envisioned mixed elements of Vegas, sequins, boho and edge. This desert glam look was completely brought to life and was on brand with our personalities.

Although a nontraditional approach, not a single element was compromised. We had our first dance in the desert and everyone toasted with champagne. The hand picked florals were some of the most beautiful I had ever seen and we had a small cake!

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It was our first time to visit The Valley of Fire. Upon arrival, the beauty of the park instantly floored us. It had rained earlier that day and the low hanging fog felt magical. We love hiking and kept talking about how we couldn’t wait to come back and explore more of the park.

“When the ceremony started, the sun came out and shined down on us and there was even a double rainbow as we left! I can’t make this up! It felt like God’s presence.”

After the ceremony, we loaded up on the party bus, which was one of our favorite memories from the weekend getting to dance, sing and celebrate while on our way to dinner at the strip. Our dinner was at Hexx Kitchen + Bar which overlooked the Bellagio fountains and was phenomenal.

To any couple considering a nontraditional wedding, we can’t recommend this route enough. Keeping it small and doing it our way is something we’ll never regret.

You only get one day. So make it what you want and most importantly, have fun!

Our wedding video can be watched via YouTube, “Bethany and Wade’s Valley of Fire Elopement”.

Vendors: Wedding Planner : @elopementlasvegas Photography: @theemerics (The Emerics Wedding Photography) Floral: @a_wong_events Glam Team: @glammedupvegas

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Exciting Things are Happening in

ENNIS...

Charcuterie By Kasey Making beautiful boxes and spreads for any occasion. Let Charcuterie by Kasey create a masterpiece at your next celebration, gathering or holiday event!

Kasey Hovis, Owner 469.765.5148 | charcuteriebykasey@gmail.com Instagram: @charcuterie_by_kasey

charcuteriebykasey.square.site

Bluebonnet Spirit Shop The Bluebonnet Spirit Shop offers a wide assortment of Ennis Bluebonnet memorabilia, including clothing, accessories, and home décor.

Sponsored by Ennis Main Street, proceeds from all sales go back into downtown to expand and increase programming.

204 W. Knox St. | Ennis Instagram: @bluebonnetspiritshop

bluebonnetspiritshop.com

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WAXAHACHIE

Discover

Gingerbread Antiques Get things cooking with a vintage Hoosier-style cabinet in your kitchen! This beautiful oak piece features original hardware, enamel top, pull-out butcher block, silverware drawer, tambour doors, slag glass, mirror, and lots of storage.

The perfect showpiece for the newlyweds kitchen!

972.937.0968 310 S. College St. | Waxahachie

facebook.com/ GingerbreadAntiquesTX

Wild Sage Salon Ash Govlik I live my life in color; My name is Ash Govlik and my home salon is Wild Sage in downtown Waxahachie, Texas. I’ve been making the world more colorful for 5 years but I’ve always had a passion for hair. I specialize in vivids but watching my clients flourish while expressing their own unique style is what I strive for.

972.515.0158 | 406 W. Franklin St. | Waxahachie Instagram: @hairbyash_wildsagesalon

wildsagesalon.com

Solon Estate Railyard Park Cool off this summer at downtown’s new attraction, Railyard Park! Now offering a splash pad, family movie nights, Saturday Morning Fitness, concerts and more.

Conveniently located near shopping and dining in downtown Waxahachie. For a complete list of events, visit railyardparkwaxahachie.com or call 469-309-4040.

469.309.4040 | 455 S. College St. | Waxahachie Instagram: @railyardparkwaxahachie

railyardparkwaxahachie.com

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The beautiful, historic Solon Estate was built in 1894 and completely remodeled. The entire property is available for short or long term rental. Perfect for weddings, family reunions, rehearsal dinners, baby showers, bridal showers, and other special events. The property includes a small cottage perfect for use as a groomsmen suite, a gazebo, two fire pits, and an Enchanted Garden that’s ideal for your elopement!

Ask us about our All-Inclusive Weddings and Special Events!

Contact Amber Lee for details at solonestate@gmail.com or (916) 289-0385.

214.460.7695 617 Solon Rd. | Waxahachie Instagram: @solonestate

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Weddings

& What to WeaR

STORY BY MICA DALEIDEN PHOTOS BY BAILEE STERLING & THREE BEARS BOUTIQUE

There is nothing like autumn wedding season, especially when you think of how hot summers weddings are, bring on the fall season! I can see the lace, overflowing centerpieces and taste the champagne now. We all know no two weddings are created equal, nor are the brides who plan them. So while I can’t tell you what to wear, I will suggest where to shop and colors to gravitate to.

We’ve been talking about neutrals all year but its wedding season so let’s give it a fancy name, Earthy Hues is what I’m going with. Think sage green complimented by rust tones and emerald with blush, can you guys see the perfection?

Thankfully we’ve already had a local bride set the trend and we can pull from her for inspiration. Hayleigh Marucci is our featured beautiful bride and y’all, I have dreams about her “Earthy Hues” color palette! Look at those gorgeous bridesmaid in pink hues, accented with the most lush pops of greens in their bouquets. Simply perfection!

So now that we’ve covered the weddings themselves, what are we as guest supposed to wear? Stick to the same overall feel of neutrals, sans white of course, no rule breaking here. Neutrals will allow you to look like part of the party and will keep you from clashing with any wedding colors.

I suggest popping into a local boutique, my personal go-to being Three Bears in Waxahachie. You will find styles that are wedding ready and the girls in the shop are the best at styling an outfit for you! They have numerous items in our color scheme and so much more.

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Happy wedding season everyone! Be sure to tag us in your wedding styles and promote your favorite local boutiques!

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ELLIS COUNTY BASED SPECIAL OCCASION MAKEUP & HAIR

Contact us today to make your special day even more glamorous!

214.267.8356 contact@phoenixbeautyteam.com www.phoenixbeautyteam.com Instagram: @phoenixbeautyteam

Creating a Master Bedroom

Oasis

STORY BY KATE DUCKWORTH PHOTOS BY GRANT DUCKWORTH PHOTOGRAPHY & CHIP GILLESPIE

There are two types of people: those who are confident in designing their home and those who are not. Not everyone has the belief in themselves to pull together a room, but everyone desires to have a soothing retreat where they can find respite from the day. We’ve taken the guesswork out and compiled some simple guidelines on how to put together the bedroom of your dreams.

Deciding on a color palette/design aesthetic is the first step. Do you like moody and cozy (dark colors and warm stains); bright and calming (light colors and gauzy fabrics); elegant and refined (neutral colors and ornate details)? Once you decide on a direction, consider the architectural details of the room. Does it already have an interesting ceiling and beautiful molding? Or is it a blank slate? If the latter, consider adding some architectural details like faux wooden beams to the ceiling or some wood paneling.

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Remember, the focal point for the room will be the bed wall. With this in mind, add some visual interest for the wall where the bed rests. There are a variety of options for accenting the wall, from wallpaper to shiplap to a daring paint color. Don’t be afraid to make an adventurous choice…it’s just one wall, after all!

Next, it’s time to think about your furniture. Consider using pieces with a variety of finishes. For example, use an upholstered bed, a stained dresser and painted nightstands. If you have a matching bedroom set, try breaking up the set and relocate some pieces to a different room. This makes the room more visually interesting and gives it a more collected feel. If you’re purchasing a new bed, be sure the headboard is tall enough so that once pillows and shams are on the bed, it remains visible.

Now that you have decided on your furniture, it’s time to choose the bedding. This is the perfect opportunity to add dimension and color. Instead of purchasing a bedding set, purchase individual pieces in a variety of prints, patterns and textures. For instance, start with solid white sheets, use a solid color quilted blanket, a folded duvet at the foot of the bed in a small print, and a variety of pillows (from bold patterns, knitted wool, sequins, or faux fur). Layered bedding will make the room feel complete. A rug will also reinforce the mood and color palette.

Another way to control mood and ambiance is with lighting. A dimmer switch can be added to help transition your main lighting from a general brightness to warmer tones. If you’re willing to part with a ceiling fan, add a chandelier. It can go a long way to contribute to the design aesthetic. A pair of lights on either side of the bed make great accents: from lamps to pendants to sconces…the sky is the limit!

“Designing interior spaces may not be your strong suit, but don’t be discouraged. Your master bedroom oasis is a lot closer than you think. By using these simple guidelines, you are one step closer to having your own magazineworthy peaceful retreat.”

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w o r g

Just with it STORY & PHOTOS BY JINA ARMSTRONG

Andy is used to planting in early spring and have everything harvested before fall and then we let the land “rest.” So until now, that is kind of how we have run our little garden/flower farm operation. I have found some good solid experts in the field that I have learned so much from. In our zone, 8a, Fall is a great time to have a garden. You can start your seeds indoors (during the hot summer) and then transplant them outdoors when the temps are cooling down. We all know how long it stays warm in our area, so we have an opportunity to plant many vegetables and flowers during the Fall.

One of the best bits of advice I have gotten is to test the limits while gardening. So this Fall, I have talked AA into trying a Fall garden. I’m pretty excited, he is a little hesitant, and quite honestly probably very tired. Lol What’s the worst that could happen, right?

“When we agreed to try the fall garden route, we set up a seed station in the garage so I could get my seeds started in the comfort of the indoor garage instead of 100 degrees outdoors.”

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I took a little online class about starting seeds indoors, from Callie @thedallasgardenschool If you have any interest in starting seeds indoors, I suggest you follow her and take that class.

Mostly what I know is, I love growing things that are beautiful and good to eat. So for now, me and AA will give the Fall garden a good shot! Having fresh flowers and fresh vegetables right outside your door might make you more likely to enjoy them.

“One other thing I know for sure... getting up and doing something you really enjoy is good for your heart and soul. In my case it’s gardening!

So whatever it is that you enjoy, get busy and make some time to do it! “ In the next issue I will share my successes and my failures (we know there will be some of those).

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BEFORE

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Ellis County Master GardenErs

Monthly Tips

BY MELINDA KOCIAN, ELLIS COUNTY MASTER GARDENERS ASSOCIATION

tips for PLANTING

AUGUST

• Plant these fall vegetables early in the month: beans, cucumbers and squash. Follow up late in the month with transplants of broccoli, Brussel sprouts, cabbage and cauliflower. Acclimate transplants to full sun before planting. Water immediately after planting.

• Plant bluebonnet and other spring wildflowers starting this month. Select a sunny, well-drained area with minimal vegetation. If planting into existing vegetation, mow area as short as possible; then lightly disturb with a disk or rake. Drag seeded area to ensure good seed-soil contact.

• Plant fall-flowering bulbs such as spider lily, naked lady lily, rain lily, oxblood lily and fall crocus. Place in the ground twice as deep as the diameter of the bulb.

• Dig and divide daffodils, daylilies, iris, liriope, oxalis, and other spring-flowering perennials.

FERTILIZING AND PRUNING • Caladiums require plenty of water if they are to remain lush and active until fall. Fertilize with 21-0-0 at the rate of 1/3 to 1/2 pound per 100 square feet of bed area and water thoroughly.

• Plants with yellowed leaves and dark green veins may be suffering from iron deficiency. Apply an iron/sulfur product.

• Prune bush roses by removing dead canes and weak, spindly growth. Cut back tall, vigorous bushes to about 30 inches.

Then apply a complete fertilizer and water in for beautiful fall blooms.

• Pinch flowers from coleus, basil, mint, caladiums and other plants where flower buds and flowers stop production of new foliage.

• GARDEN WATCH

tips for PLANTING

SEPTEMBER

• Plant these fall vegetables now: beets, carrots, “greens” (mustard, collard, turnip), kale, lettuce, radishes and spinach.

• Lawn establishment using warm-season grasses such as Bermudagrass, St. Augustine, zoysia and buffalograss should be completed early in the month.

• Overseed established Bermudagrass lawns with perennial ryegrass this month, if desired.

• Plant these fall-blooming annuals from bedding plants before buds have opened: marigolds, petunias, asters, pinks, snapdragons and mums. Wait until cooler weather to plant pansies, violas and ornamental cabbages and kale.

• Complete sowing bluebonnets to ensure spring flowers. For season-long color, purchase a wildflower mix that contains annuals and perennials, as well as cool-season and warmseason plants such as bluebonnets, black-eyed Susan, Indian blanket, Indian paintbrush, Mexican hat, plains coreopsis, purple coneflower and evening primrose. Sow seeds in areas that are free of grasses and lightly tilled. Lightly rake area to get good seed-soil contact before watering.

• FERTILIZING AND PRUNING

• Apply high-nitrogen fertilizer (4-1-2 ratio) on lawns and shrubs to prepare plants for fall and winter. Container plants will benefit from using high-nitrogen, water-soluble fertilizers.

• Tidy up summer perennials by removing dead and faded flower stems and seed stalks. Continue through fall.

• Root-prune trees and shrubs to be transplanted this winter.

Cutting the roots around the plant with a spade will stimulate new root growth in what will become the soil ball when plant is moved.

•

• By now you know the real winners and losers in your landscape. GARDEN WATCH • Apply a pre-emergent herbicide to lawns early in the month Replace the “losers” with a Texas Superstar®. These plants have to control winter weeds. Depending on the type of weed been tested and proven to be outstanding performers under targeted, it may be necessary to apply two products – one for our growing conditions. Visit www.TexasSuperstar.com for a list grassy weeds (annual bluegrass, ryegrass, etc.) and another of these amazing stars. for broadleafed weeds (chickweed, clover, dandelions, henbit, • Control fire ants in your lawn with mound treatments, as etc.). opposed to baits, since ants are foraging less now. Organic • Make final application of Image® or SedgeHammer® before insecticides such as pyrethrins and spinosad can be sprinkled mid-month to control nutsedge in warm-season lawns. on or drenched into the mound.

• Remove webworms from pecan trees. Cut off the ends of • Continue to follow the “Homeowners Fruit and Nut Spray branches as soon as the webs appear. Tear open large webs Schedule” to protect pecan trees against pecan weevils and to expose worms for the birds. Spraying is not practical. hickory shuckworms, and to control peach tree borers on • Spray roses suffering from black spot and powdery mildew peach and plum trees. with labeled fungicide.

• Order spring-flowering bulbs for planting in November and • Prepare beds for spring-flowering bulbs. Add organic matter December. Remember ‘biggest is best’ in regard to bulb size. Be to improve water drainage. aware of “bargain” bulbs as they may be small or of inferior quality.

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LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021

BEFORE

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021

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Sports Medicine IN ELLIS COUNTY

BY CHRISTOPHER TRINH, D.O. SPORTS MEDICINE PHYSICIAN FOR BAYLOR SCOTT & WHITE SPORTS MEDICINE AND ORTHOPEDIC INSTITUTE IN MIDLOTHIAN AND WAXAHACHIE

Dr. Trinh is a fellowship trained sports medicine physician who provides skilled, non-surgical treatment for musculoskeletal injuries and disorders. He takes care of patients of all ages who have both acute and chronic medical conditions. Acute conditions range from injuries, concussions, and fractures. Chronic conditions range from arthritis to tendinopathies. His goal is to maximize function and minimize disability while focusing on the patient as a whole to prevent injuries, improve performance, and enhance overall health.

Dr. Trinh completed his residency training at the University of Oklahoma while completing a sports medicine track and working with Big 12 athletes, AAA professional baseball, and surrounding local universities and high schools.

Dr. Trinh completed his fellowship training at the University of Arkansas where he was a team physician for the Arkansas Razorbacks. Dr. Trinh has experience with athletes in a wide range of sports as well as training room and sideline coverage skills.

During his fellowship training Dr. Trinh completed extensive training in the use of ultrasound. Now, Dr. Trinh’s practice includes the use of diagnostic and therapeutic ultrasound. Sports medicine physicians are specially trained to do joint and soft tissue injections to treat conditions such as arthritis, tendonitis, bursitis, and/or remove fluid from swollen joints. Ultrasound can also be used to guide injections and other procedures to support safe delivery of the injection, avoid neurovascular structures, and increase effectiveness of medical treatment.

Dr. Trinh is passionate about following up to date evidence-based guidelines. In his fellowship training he was involved in ongoing concussion research and has experience managing concussions and return to play protocols for SEC Division I athletes. Dr. Trinh is a nationally certified ImPACT® concussion consultant and can manage concussions of all ages and activity levels.

WHAT IS A SPORTS MEDICINE PHYSICIAN? A sports medicine physician is a fellowship trained physician specialist who treats anyone who is physically active or who wants to become active and more mobile. They can help improve performance, improve overall health, and prevent injuries so that patients can maintain physical activity throughout their lives.

Whether it is an acute injury or a chronic overuse injury, the sports medicine physician has the expertise to evaluate the injury and develop a plan of care. The approach is non-surgical with an emphasis on rehabilitation modalities, casting, bracing, or injections as needed. The goal is to return the patient to their previous level of activity or their desired level and to know when surgery is necessary to achieve that goal Sports medicine physicians work closely with orthopedic surgeons, physical therapists, athletic trainers, and other specialists to provide the timely and appropriate management of your injury. With special knowledge of return to play issues your physician will also know when and how it is safe to return to your sport or activity.

WHAT DOES A SPORTS MEDICINE PHYSICIAN TREAT? Sports medicine physicians see a wide range of orthopedic concerns.

• Acute injuries such as ankle sprains, muscle strains, rotator cuff injuries, and various other knee, hip, and shoulder injuries • Overuse injuries including stress fractures and tendonitis • Osteoarthritis • Exercise prescriptions for patients who want to be more active • Injury prevention • Pre-participation physical exams • Sports concussions • Return to play decisions for athletes • Athletes trying to stay healthy and active in their chosen sport DO SPORTS MEDICINE PHYSICIANS ONLY SEE ATHLETES? No. Sports medicine physicians treat patients of all ages and activity levels. A large portion of patients are active adults and children, “weekend

warriors,” “industrial athletes,” and those who are not physically active but have orthopedic ailments.

PLATELET RICH PLASMA IN SPORTS MEDICINE Platelet rich plasma injections or PRP is a form of regenerative medicine and one of the newer treatments in orthopedics and sports medicine.

Dr. Trinh’s training includes regenerative medicine and ortho-biologics like platelet-rich plasma that heal the body naturally through the body’s own cells and growth factors. Speaking with a sports medicine physician can help you decide if PRP can help with your orthopedic issues.

HOW SPORTS MEDICINE SERVES THE COMMUNITY AND LOCAL SPORTS Sports medicine physicians are ideal physicians for athletes and other physically active individuals.

They are an excellent resource for individuals who wish to become active or begin an exercise program. Most sports medicine physicians have experience working as a team physician for local teams, sports clubs, high school teams, and collegiate athletics. Sports medicine physicians can counsel patients on correct body mechanics and other important aspects of injury prevention.

Pre-participation exams are also important for all local athletes to undergo. The goal of these important exams is to optimize your health and readiness for sports. The exams can also detect any needed treatment for preexisting issues or newly discovered musculoskeletal conditions that may interfere with your sport or physical activity.

Dr. Trinh believes strongly that athletes thrive and recover best in a team environment. To foster and encourage this, Dr. Trinh communicates with school athletic trainers, nurses, teachers, and any other individuals who need to be involved with athlete care at the direction of patient families.

Dr. Trinh and his orthopedic surgeon colleagues provide medical services and sports coverage to various schools within Ellis County.

Physician is an employee of HealthTexas Provider Network, a member of Baylor Scott & White Health.

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Could Sleeve Gastrectomy Surgery Be the Key to Your Weight-Loss Success?

Here’s why millions of people are turning to this safe, effective surgical procedure

BY DR. MAZEN ISKANDAR, DR. TIMOTHY KELLY, AND DR. WATSON ROYE, WEIGHT-LOSS SURGEONS AT BAYLOR SCOTT & WHITE TEXAS SURGICAL SPECIALISTS

If you’re like a lot of people, excess body weight might be a problem you’ve struggled with for years. And it’s not just a lifestyle problem.

While you might have trouble finding clothes that fit right or sitting in certain chairs, obesity is linked with a range of health problems.

“If you’re obese, you’re at higher risk for heart disease, stroke, diabetes, arthritis, sleep apnea, some cancers, and other health conditions,” says weight-loss surgeon Watson Roye, MD. If you’ve tried diet after diet and found they just don’t work, or you’ve lost weight and gained it back, you might want to consider a type of weight-loss surgery called sleeve gastrectomy.

“A lot of people are reluctant to try weight-loss surgery,” says weight-loss surgeon Mazen Iskandar, MD. “They feel like if they can’t lose weight with diet and exercise, they’ve failed. But losing weight is complicated, and surgery can help them get on the path to success and better health.”

Sleeve gastrectomy is simple, safe, and effective

Since 2013, sleeve gastrectomy has been the most common type of weight-loss surgery performed in the United States. In 2019, more than 152,000 people turned to the procedure to help them get their weight under control, according to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS).

The procedure gets impressive results. People typically lose 60 to 70 percent of their excess weight after a year. And their health improves, too. According to a study published in the World Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery: • Diabetes disappeared in 75 percent of people • High blood pressure improved in almost 72 percent of people • None of the people with sleep apnea needed CPAP machines anymore

Here’s how sleeve gastrectomy surgery can help you lose weight

With the sleeve gastrectomy or “sleeve” procedure, surgeons remove about 80 percent of your stomach.

“The new stomach holds less food, so you consume less,” explains weight-loss surgeon Timothy Kelly, MD. “Plus, we remove most of the part of your stomach that produces the hormone that makes you feel hungry, so you naturally want to eat less.”

Unlike some other types of weight-loss surgery, the sleeve procedure doesn’t remove any of your small intestine, so there are fewer potential complications from the surgery, and you’re less likely to be deficient in nutrients afterward. The procedure is typically covered by insurance.

Who qualifies for sleeve gastrectomy surgery?

According to the ASMBS, you may qualify for weight-loss surgery if: • Your body mass index (BMI) is 40 or higher. For most people, that means you’re more than 100 pounds overweight • Your BMI is 35 or higher and you have other health conditions linked to your weight such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, osteoarthritis, abnormal cholesterol levels, or gastrointestinal disorders • You haven’t been able to lose weight and keep it off with the methods you’ve tried

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Physician is an employee of HealthTexas Provider Network, a member of Baylor Scott & White Health. ©2021 Baylor Scott & White Health. // AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021

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Breast Cancer Staging: What You Need to Know DOCTORS USE BREAST CANCER STAGING TO DEVELOP THE TREATMENT PLANS THAT CAN LEAD TO THE BEST OUTCOMES

It can take a little while to determine the stage of the breast cancer, and the process can include imaging, biopsy, and surgery. During surgery, along with the tumor, the surgeon may remove the lymph node where the cancer is most likely to have spread, to look for signs of cancer there.

Doctors may also recommend blood work or imaging studies such as a chest x-ray, CT scan, bone scan, or PET scan to help evaluate whether the cancer has spread.

“These factors are important because accurately determining the breast cancer stage can guide treatment planning, impact the prognosis, and help evaluate whether clinical trials might be a good option.”

Stage 0 Stage 0 is the least-advanced breast cancer stage. In stage 0, the cancer hasn’t spread past the part of the breast where it started, which is often the lining of the milk ducts.

Treatment: Stage 0 breast cancer is highly treatable.

Stage I In Stage I, the cancer is only found in the area of the breast where it first began. This stage is broken down into two stages, IA and IB. This stage mainly includes tumors smaller than two centimeters.

Treatment: A Stage I prognosis usually means the cancer was caught early, and treatment should be effective.

Stage II Stage II breast cancers are slightly larger but have normally not spread to the lymph nodes in the armpit.

Treatment: Stage II breast cancers are often treated effectively with surgery, and sometimes with radiation and chemotherapy.

Stage III Stage III breast cancers have spread beyond the breast to lymph nodes but haven’t spread further out into the body.

Treatment: Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and clinical trials are treatment options.

Physician is an employee of HealthTexas Provider Network, a member of Baylor Scott & White Health. ©2021 Baylor Scott & White Health.

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// AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021

Stage IV In stage IV, the breast cancer has spread to other parts of the body outside of the breast and lymph nodes. It might be found in the lungs, liver, bones, brain, or skin.

Treatment: Stage IV breast cancer usually can’t be cured. But it can be managed and treated as a chronic disease, which can extend a woman’s life by many years.

THERE ARE FIVE STAGES FOR BREAST CANCER, LABELED 0 THROUGH IV.

A lot of women who are diagnosed with breast cancer have questions about their breast cancer stage.

To answer their questions, the treatment team looks at things like how big the tumor is, whether it has spread within the breast or into the body, and whether it has certain hormone receptors. With this information, the team evaluates the breast cancer stage.

BY VALERIE GORMAN, MD, BREAST SURGEON AT BAYLOR SCOTT & WHITE TEXAS SURGICAL SPECIALISTS

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021

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MY wedding DAY STORY BY CINDY BURCH

When I was planning my wedding almost twenty years ago, I didn’t know I would end up in the catering business, but just working out all of the details in my own wedding was great training.

I grew up attending First Baptist Church Dallas, one of the largest churches in the country.

Covering five city blocks in downtown Dallas and more than 30,000 members, my parents met and married there in 1957. Everything at our church was a major production and I was at the heart of it all. Our 200 member choir had productions as elaborate as any Broadway musical and our orchestra was known to rival the Dallas Symphony. I loved going to the weddings at our church because they were always an affair to remember.

Growing up with so much fanfare gave me an appetite for wanting everything I do to be in grand style. When it came time for my own wedding, it was no exception.

I didn’t get married until I was 32 years old, so I had years to dream big. I designed 1000 invitations on beautiful cardstock with gold calligraphy and painstakingly wrapped each one with handmade paper and a gold waxed seal.

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My wedding dress was made of silk taffeta with hand sewn pearls and beading that covered the bodice and sleeves. Six bridesmaids wore emerald taffeta ball gowns and carried cascading nosegays of solid white flowers.

The church’s century old sanctuary, with its magnificent stained glass windows, was filled with candelabras cascading throughout the choir loft holding hundreds of long taper candles. Hurricane lanterns with white roses, gold and white ribbons and trails of asparagus fern lined the end of each pew.

With 800 guests looking on, my dad walked me down the aisle. Trumpets rang out from the balcony and the Dallas Baptist University Choir sang “Standing on Holy Ground”, while four cameras recorded the event from every angle. Dr. W. A. Criswell, who had married my parents thirty five years earlier, officiated the wedding and W. T. Greer brought the house down singing his incredible rendition of The Lord’s Prayer.

It was a night to remember. If there was ever a time my parents were grateful they only had one child, this was it.

The celebration continued with a lavish buffet and a five foot tall wedding cake that looked more like a huge porcelain sculpture than multi tiers of confection. There were paella stations and multiple buffets of assorted hors d’ oeuvres interspersed with cascading fruits and cheeses. As we drove away in a white vintage Bentley to the historic Adolphus Hotel my face literally hurt from smiling so long. My husband tends to remember the event as the night he stood for hours in a rented tuxedo and uncomfortable shoes while talking to hundreds of people he didn’t know. I am thankful he endured it all for me. In looking back I now know why I set the bar so high in our catering business.

Over the years I have tried to help my brides have that same feeling when The Doves Nest caters a wedding. From constructing a dance floor over a client’s swimming pool, to covering a backyard with clear tents for a starry night, we have done it all. Whether it’s a small intimate affair with just family, or an elaborate reception where the newlyweds leave the scene by helicopter, I want their big day to be a dream come true, like mine was.

Cindy Burch

// AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021