December January 2021 Ellis County Living Magazine

the Winter issue www.living-magazine.com

New Logo, Same Exceptional Service Terry Wooten 214.949.9285 LOAN ORIGINATOR NMLS 224831 Terry.Wooten@GatewayLoan.com

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

Lance Wallace 903.571.9869 LOAN ORIGINATOR NMLS 1146461 Lance.Wallace@GatewayLoan.com

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

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

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

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

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

Gateway Mortgage Group, A division of Gateway First Bank, NMLS 7233

ASK US ABOUT OUR

$99 WHITENING SPECIAL

CALL US FOR A FREE 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

Marlene Norcross 512-431-4413

Janie Hendrix 817-271-0720

The keys to buying or selling your home?

We’ve got them!

Estefanie Gutierrez 214-886-6583

Amelia Valdez 469-658-5506

Karen Emery 817-917-5035

Give us a call today!

Ennis Main Office 101 NW Main St Ennis, TX 75119

Red Oak Office 100 Plaza Dr, Suite 500 Red Oak, TX 75154

Waxahachie Office 311 Ferris Ave Waxahachie, TX 75165

Corsicana Office 108 S Beaton St Corsicana, TX 75110

Professional Values • Real Estate Solutions Your City Real Estate citytxrealestate.com • 972-878-2222

“ Contents

DECEMBER 2020-JANUARY 2021 |

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HAPPY HOLIDAY’S With celebrations before us, we hope to inspire you with this year’s Holiday issue of our magazine. With fashion, food, fun and future plans - we want you to take a piece of what you love and bring it to life in how you choose to celebrate. With so many unknowns, we offer knowledge on what we do best.. love where we live.

volume 16

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LIFE + STYLE MARKETPLACE • 10 Discover Downtown Waxahachie GIFT GUIDE • 12 SHOPPING • 14 Shopping Guide of Ellis County RECIPES • 20 Pantry Pasta Sauces FASHION • 22 All That Glitters

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issue 6

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HOME + GARDEN ORGANIZED BY DI • 26 Building Simple Happiness COURTNEY WARREN • 30 Christmas Decor that Matches Your Home SUSAN BAKER • 34 6 Ways to be the Perfect Guest

JAKE WILLINGHAM • 36 7 Steps To Become a Homeowner DEC/JAN TIPS • 38 Planting/Growing Guide for the Season

LA FIN CINDY BURCH • 40 Season of Hope

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We pride ourselves on providing you with the perfect loan for your situation, good rates and personal service!

NICK HESTER Sr. Loan Originator

ALLISON MORROW Loan Originator

DEANN YEILDING Sr. Loan Originator

Cell 469-855-9262 NMLS #338108

Cell 325-201-7476 NMLS #1713496

Cell 325-665-5427 NMLS #192182

Nick@midtexmortgage.com

Allison@midtexmortgage.com

Deann@midtexmortgage.com

Call Us: (469) 325-3570 130 Chieftain Drive Ste 103 Waxahachie

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

PUBLISHER CINDY CAMP publisher@living-magazine.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR LINDSEY KEENEY lindsey@living-magazine.com

ART DIRECTOR CARLY PECHAL carly@living-magazine.com

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT TRAVIS M. SMITH travis@living-magazine.com

Living

ELLIS COUNTY

MAGAZINE

Cover photo by Courtney Warren Home Staff photos by Rebecca Chesney Photo & Film A special thanks to all of our contributing writers.

For advertising information, please contact Ellis County Living Magazine at 972.935.0938 or info@living-magazine.com.

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LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // WINTER 2020-21

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

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

Copyright 2020, ECL Media, Inc.© All rights reserved.

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.

Follow us on Instagram: @EllisCountyLiving facebook.com/EllisCountyLiving pinterest.com/ECLivingmag twitter.com/ECLiving

Formerly Mosaic Madness, our new location offers open studio time to come in and create your own mosaic masterpiece, stained glass classes, private parties and events, DIY mosaic kits, handmade glassworks, and more.

Surrounded by trees & tucked away off historic Main St., our glass studio is the perfect place to come unwind and get creative! And be sure to check out our neighbors in the same house, BIG Yoga Co! Find us on Facebook & Instagram @mosaichideaway Book classes & studio time online at www.themosaichideaway.com

The Mosaic Hideaway | 1507 W. Main St. | Waxahachie 972-937-5797 | info@themosaichideaway

Discover Downtown WAXAHACHIE Gingerbread Antiques Ho! Ho! Ho! Deck your halls with vintage Christmas decor and return to the Christmases of your childhood. From aluminum Christmas trees and color wheels to Shiny Brite ornaments, your favorite retro decor is back and better than ever. Find everything you need for an old fashioned Christmas at Gingerbread Antiques.

972.937.0968 | 310 S. College St. | Waxahachie

facebook.com/GingerbreadAntiquesTX

Farmhouse Come browse our wide variety of handmade jewelry, home décor, antiques and much more! Now also offering custom jewelry! Monday – Saturday, 10-5. Home – Garden – Antiques – Art 972.938.9090 | 308 S. College St. | Waxahachie

farmhouse308.com

Massage at Vogue Salon + Spa by Sharon Leach Give the gift of relaxation. Sharon Leach at Vogue Salon + Spa specializes in, but is not limited to, Swedish massage, aromatherapy, vacuum/cupping therapy and pre-natal massage. Her healing touch speaks for itself.

972-937-4247 | 106 West Main St. | Waxahachie

voguesalonswaxahachie.com

Large Gold Crystal Clip & Small Gold Crystal Clip

www.shopkimkimble.com

Take a look at these fun finds for gifts any time of year! It always helps to treat yourself or others to something out of the ordinary that is simply delightful!

The Littles™ Head to Toe www.drunkelephant.com

What a fun bag of goodies from Drunk Elephant! These “Littles” will have you covered from head to toe in the shower. They also make a great travel companion!

THIS SET CONTAINS: -60 ml / 2 fl oz Cocomino™ Glossing Shampoo -60 ml / 2 fl oz Cocomino™ Marula Cream Conditioner -60 ml / 2 fl oz T.L.C. Happi Scalp™ Scrub -60 ml / 2 fl oz Wild Marula™ Tangle Spray -60 ml / 2 fl oz Kamili™ Cream Body Cleanser -60 ml / 2 fl oz Sili™ Body Lotion -30 ml / 1 fl oz Sweet Pitti™ Deodorant Cream -Neon travel bag + wide-tooth comb

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LondonTown Nail Polish www.londontownusa.com

Do you or someone you love need to rest, read and rejuvenate? Of course you do!

Turn on the oil diffuser, grab a new book and jump into your cozy new sheets!

Ultimate Aromatherapy Diffuser & 10 Essential Oil Set www.puredailycare.com

Violet Bent Backwards Over the Grass By Lana Del Rey www.simonandschuster.com

PeachSkinSheets

www.peachskinsheets.com LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // WINTER 2020-21

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ShoppingEllis County

THE GUIDE Here in Ellis County we are so blessed to have some amazing places to shop. We put together

a list of some of the unique businesses that are based in each of our towns. Thank you to everyone who helped gather this list to allow our entire community to see, plan and shop local.

Midlothian Aethra Jewels 410 Calvert Dr.

Encore Upscale Resale 1000 E. Main St., #210

House on 5th 203 S. 5th Street

Rally Sportswear & Boutique 211 W. Ave. F

American Shaman 1000 E. Main St., #201

E.T. Tobey 475 Murray St., Station B

Lee’s Jewelry Store 661 E. Main Street

Relic + Root 4470 E. Hwy. 287, #400

Ashley Nostalgia 105 N. 3rd St.

Eye Candy Color Bar & Boutique 220 W. Ave. F

Lola’s Beauty Boutique 3271 FM 663, Ste. A

Rigsby’s Garden Center 3080 Shady Center

Midlothian Open Air Market Hertiage Park Downtown

Texas Best Smokehouse 2220 Plainview Rd.

Mona Leigh Studio & Boutique 126 A N. 8th Street

The Edge Studio & Boutique 117 W. Avenue B

On the Cutting Edge Engravers 1000 E. Main St., #301

The Flower Shoppe 118 N. 8th St.

Paint Bucket & Boutique 401 N. 8th Street

Timeless Creations Studio 1000 E. Main St., #102

Caves Jewelry Store 1020 E. Main St. Claire Lynn Designs 1020 E. Main St. Crescent Yoga Studio & Boutique 306 W. Ave. F

Flowers by Roberta 315 N. 9th St. Games Unplugged 1000 E. Main St., #302 Growing Ideas Florist 1000 E. US Hwy. 287, #203B

Dr. Vapor 1000 E. Main St., #103

Heaven’s Attic Thrift Store 212 W. Avenue F

Earthtones Nursery 810 E. Main St.

Higginbotham Brothers 530 E. Main Street

Pistols & Pearls 2210 Plainview Road

Ennis Apple Annie’s Garden Gate Floral & Gifts Shoppe 402 W Ennis Ave Boom Beauty Boutique 114 N Dallas St Ennis Auction House 210 N Dallas St Felcmans 111 West Knox Street Gameroom Outfitters 200 E Ennis Ave Suite B

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Homefeathers 213 West Ennis Avenue

Main Street Hardware 201 SW Main St

Tex-Scapes Greenery, 2705 S Kaufman St

Interior Ideas 211 W Knox St

Masterpiece Home Furnishings 201 W Brown St

Well Labeled 101 S. Dallas Street Suite 100

La Guadalupana 507 S Clay St

Merle Norman 108 W Ennis Ave

The Burled Co 218 W Ennis Ave

La Hacienda Boots 305 SW Main St, Suite M

Nwynn’s Jewelers 1012 E Ennis Ave, Suite L

Lillian’s Hangers 107 W Baylor St

The Burled Co 218 W Ennis Ave Suite 102

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // WINTER 2020-21

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Waxahachie All Sports Trophies 109 N. College

Dazzling Divas Boutique 113 N. College

Multitudes 200 W. Main

Twisted Double M Boutique 315 W Main #16

Arcs and Sparks Welding Creations 1659 Shawnee Rd

Divine Flowers & More 401 N. Hwy. 77, Suite 19

My 3BH 210 N. Monroe

Unity Thrift 109 N.Elm

Doves Nest 105 W. Jefferson

Old Town Village Antiques & Uniques 307 S. Rogers

Vaqueras Boutique 104 S. Rogers

Ark Country Store 209 S. Hwy. 77 ART on the Square 113 Franklin St. Atelier Antiques 308 S. Rogers Baylor Auxillary Thrift Store 431 N. College St. Bellas and Broncos Bootique 212 W. Jefferson Blooms & More 1309 W. Main St. Blume Boutique 311 1/2 S.Rogers Board and Brush 114 N. College Bon Ton Vintage 307 S. Rogers St. Boyce Feed & Grain Corp.

441 S. College St. C.A. Wilson Company 308 N. College St. Canales Furniture 600 N. Hwy 77 Suite #E Cheyenne Ranch Boutique cheyenneranchboutique.com Confidence Shoppe confidenceshoppe.com Coordinate Chaos 101 S. College, Suite A Copper Rose 210 Franklin Crafty Scrapper 108 S. Rogers St. Crape Myrtle Cottage 110 S. Rogers

Elf Shoe Repair 507 N. Hwy. 77, Suite 1100C Ellis County Music Center 1568 N. Hwy. 77, Suite 102 Enchanted Energy Haven 209 W. Jefferson Eubank Florist 107 W. Franklin St. Farmhouse 308-A S. College St. First Look Boutique 1204 Ferris Ave., Suite B Gingerbread Antiques 310 S. College St. Glenn’s Warehouse Carpets 301 N. College St.

Painting with a Twist 507 N. Hwy. 77, #612 Parish Music Store 102 N. Hwy. 77 Port Horizon Thrift 301 N. College Red Barn Flea Market Antiques & More 305 W. Madison Roland’s Nursery & Landscape 2240 N. Hwy. 77 SARAH BRIGGS 120 N Highway 77 Ste, F SMD Designs + Boutique 2801 N. Hwy 77, Suite 130

Graceful & Chic Boutique 101 S. College

The Briarpatch 404 W. Main St. & Water St. Waxahachie

Gran’s Antiques 208 S. Rogers

The Crafty Mom Boutique 213 S. College

Happy’s Home Furnishings 114 W. Main St.

The Greenery 3671 N. Hwy. 77

Harvest Moon Boutique 104 N. College

The Mix: It’s Everything 107 W. Franklin

Kimmy’s Boutique 209 S. College

The Mosaic Hideaway 1507 West Main

Maxwell Jewelers 311 S. Rogers

The Shop 315 W. Main St., Suite 13

Meat Church BBQ 205 S College St

The Studio 3671 N. Hwy. 77, Suite 200

Merle Norman 401 N. Hwy. 77, Suite 8

The Velvet Angel 301 S. Rogers

Moonlight Dress Boutique 312 W. Jefferson

Turquoise & Tangerine shopturquoiseandtangerine.com

Wally’s Party Factory 506 Ferris Ave. Waxahachie Architectural Salvage 106 S. Monroe St. Waxahachie Auction House 109 N. Elm Waxahachie Pawn 912 Ferris Ave. Wild Thyme Herb Shop 700 Water St. Wiley’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry 2251 Brown St., Suite 102 Wirth Collecting 114 N. College

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // WINTER 2020-21

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Pantry Pasta Sauces RECIPES BY MEAGAN CAMP

Pasta is my go-to dinner idea. I find endless ways to take whatever pasta shape I have in my pantry and pull out the odds and ends in my refrigerator and make a cohesive, thoughtful and satisfying dinner – or lunch the next day. The key to staying away from the jars of sauce at the grocery story, which are always too expensive, is to know how to substitute and season your sauce. Once you start to experiment, you just might find your new signature sauce.

Pumpkin Marinara

If you only used half of the can of pumpkin and need to use the rest, whip up this pasta sauce and freeze it for a quick weeknight meal. Pour over fresh pasta or layer it with eggplant for a new style of lasagna.

Ingredients 1 Medium Onion, sliced 2 Cloves of Garlic, chopped 1 28oz. can of fire roasted tomatoes 1 14oz. can of pumpkin puree 1 t Dried Oregano 1/4 t Nutmeg, ground 1 t Red Chili Flakes (optional)

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Method • Heat a large saucepan or dutch oven over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, drop a small slice of onion in oil to see if it is ready, add the onion and saute for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the garlic and 1 teaspoon of salt and saute for another minute.

• Add tomato and pumpkin to the pan and stir to combine. Keep the sauce at a simmer so it doesn’t burn.

• Add the herbs and chili flakes along with salt and pepper. Taste along the way to get the flavor just the way you like it.

• Either serve right away with any shape pasta or freeze and use when you need it.

Tip: If you want to amp up the pumpkin flavor, add in the more savory spices found in pumpkin spice like cinnamon and clove. You can always balance it out by adding more red chili flakes.

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // WINTER 2020-21

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Pesto

Pesto is more than just that bright herbal sauce that we all know so well. I look at Pesto as a true method for using up bits and pieces in your refrigerator and blending them together to make a flavorful fresh sauce that I use to marinate meat or fish, toss on a salad, use as a spread on bread for a sandwich. The concept is that you use raw ingredients and blend them together with olive oil to create a smooth sauce. The basic combination is a leafy green, nuts, a hard cheese, lemon and garlic.

Ingredients 4 Cups of Basil - or Leafy Green like Spinach or Arugula 1-2 Cloves of Garlic (to your taste) 1/4 C Parmesan Cheese – other hard cheese 1/2 C Pine Nuts - or Walnuts, Pecans, Almonds 1/2 Lemon, juiced 1/4 - 1/2 C Olive Oil Salt & Pepper to taste Honey or Agave to taste

Tomato Sauce

This sauce was a complete accident and I’m a big fan of happy accidents. I needed to make a quick, under 20 minutes, flavorful sauce and I didn’t want it to be a thick tomato sauce. This is perfect for the summer or for mixing with vegetable noodles.

Ingredients 1 Pint of Cherry or Grape Tomatoes 1 14oz Can of Fire Roasted Tomatoes 2-3 Cloves of Garlic, sliced Red Chili Flakes Extra herbs you have on hand

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Method • In a food processor or strong blender, add all of your ingredients in and start to blend adding in olive oil until you get the consistency you want. If you are making a pasta sauce, leave it a bit thicker and add in 1/4 - 1/2 C of pasta water to it when you mix with the pasta. If you are making a marinade, add a bit of extra oil so it coats whatever you are marinating.

Tip: After you taste your pesto, ask yourself if it is too bitter and add in 1 teaspoon of honey or agave to balance the sauce.

Don’t worry, it won’t make the sauce sweet!

Method • In a saute pan, pour 1 tablespoon olive oil and add in cherry tomatoes when the oil is hot. Cook the tomatoes for 4-5 minutes until they begin to color.

• Add slices of garlic and cook until they start to brown in the olive oil. Add in the canned tomatoes and stir to combine.

• Cook until the cherry tomatoes start to pop and then stir in any fresh herbs and the red chili flakes. Salt and pepper to your taste, but if the tomatoes are good you shouldn’t have to add very much.

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // WINTER 2020-21

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All that

glitters STORY & PHOTOS BY MELISSA MCBRIDE

’Tis the season to sparkle and shine…finally! Let’s all make it count. Remember the old saying “if you can’t see it from the curb…why bother?” Fashion seems to be staying alive and as glitzy as a disco ball.

What a year, y’all. It’s like the casualness of stay at home/ work from home clothing has suddenly been lifted and even if you’re dancing in your own living room to bring in the new year…here’s your chance to dazzle!

This winter it’s all about glimmer and texture. For those craving retro fun and affordable glamour…there’s plenty of sequins, satin, lamé, metal mesh accessories, and all colors of faux fur. For the traditionalists…there’s velvet, velour, pearls, leather, and lots and lots of metallics! Precious metals hold great value again. For the earthier boho lovers there’s corduroy, cashmere, chunky cable knit, linen, and Mongolian lamb accents. I’m absolutely loving winter white! Whatever your style is…bring it!

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A decade ago, I ordered boots from the fabulous Back at the Ranch custom boot store in Santa Fe because I was carrying their line at my western store, Gunslinger. I had asked owner Wendy Lane Henry to “surprise me” and push the envelope a bit…and I was delighted! I received gorgeous gold metallic cowgirl boots with ornate sterling silver tips. I’ve busted these out again and recently discovered how they’ve expanded their metallic boot line with some additional show stopper designs. My fondness for metallics and sequins goes way back in my memory bank. Back in the day, was anyone else saying, I want to be a Golddigger™ when I grow up just to wear the outfits? No…not talking about wallets. No…I can’t sing, but I am talking about the well known group of female singers who wore, at the time, what I thought were the coolest ensembles. This talented group of gals appeared on various television shows during my early childhood.

Remember all those sequins and theatrical props? The glitter and glam of fashion may have toned down for a few years until disco exploded on the scene. This season, that retro excitement is back…the music, the fashion, the groove!

Good vibes only…can we all agree?

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // WINTER 2020-21

As silhouettes recycle along with textures, colors, and fabrications, you’ve probably noticed something that has been slowly sneaking back into fashion. After the 70’s…the 80’s brought back the shoulder pad. We knew the come back was inevitable.

Remember how we bought them as separate accessories for that added boost to achieve the coveted inverted triangular look?

Traditionalists will begin finding them again this season sewn into popular velvet or corduroy blazers and also in some of the quilted satin bomber jackets. This winter, pant suits have broader shoulder jackets paired with high waisted, wider leg pants. Luscious velvet or velour tracksuits and belted jumpsuits are street savvy and are accompanied by glittering handbags with bold gold hardware.

We’ve all figured out that trendy loungewear has earned it’s own “fashion at home” category this past year and it’s still going strong.

If you are following my articles, you know that I love Santa Fe! and I recently discovered a new favorite place to shop and be inspired.

Earthier trendsetters and globetrotters who like natural sparkle will appreciate World of Bohemia. I found owner Kris Lajeskie to be a kindred spirit. I have owned a string of stores with artistic shopping experiences, all with different names and whimsical themes. For a few years I had a beautiful boutique called Graceful. I had designed the locally made sign to hold a nest with eggs, and we tucked a feather into our customer’s shopping bags. Kris has gone a delightful step further. You’ll unwrap her luscious gold tissue paper to discover a gold dipped white feather. She supports artisans from all around the world. Everything is handmade with love and it’s an altruistic journey. For her, it’s all about giving and supporting.

We both love travel and collecting handmade items. I purchased a couple of fabulous feather statement pieces intricately handcrafted of feathers, wooden beads, and delicate braided leather.

“Whenever I find a feather in my path, I feel like it’s a gift from heaven. They are so light and beautiful. The necklace of feathers is simple and lovely. Wear them around your neck, hang them in your home, or even from your rearview mirror” she says whimsically. Symbolically good advice for the new year…time to spread our wings and fly! While there, I picked up another winter white accessory which is great for travel…a super soft, raw fringed edge shawl by “AS IS”. You can easily dress up its simple style with the white feather necklace or a Mongolian lamb neck warmer. This fluffy layering piece adds instant warmth, a luxe touch and about five feet of “wow-ness” which works in most winter climates. Texas designer Pat Dahnke adds a flirty leather fringe and bead detail to her version of this winter essential. I like to throw them over a denim jacket. Pat also makes coordinating, removable cuffs for added personality.

I’ve never really worn baseball caps, but I have found a camel corduroy version that I really like! Baseball caps are trending in metallics and shimmery fabrics. Beanies and news boy caps with coordinating scarves are affordable enough to have in a variety of colors. Winter white felts are elegant!

So what’s on your Christmas list? How will you bring the much anticipated new year in? I already have a disco ball to dazzle in my living room and I know I’m really late to this party, but I think I would like a record player (turntable) so I can play my stash of vintage vinyl that I had reluctantly decided to rescue from a donation pile years ago.

Now I’m glad they were salvaged. I’m thinking the winter white suitcase style with gold hardware…in case Santa is reading this.

MELISSA MCBRIDE OWNER & DESIGNER AT WILD GRACE Believer.

Encourager.

Beyond all this glittery fashion lingo, look deeper for real treasures this season and beyond. Your faith…your family…your friends…and gratitude. Encouraging all of us to keep arms wide open and love others well despite differences. Fashion will come and go…but faith, family and friendships, old and new, are far more valuable than the most precious of metals.

Artist.

Writer.

Designer.

Wanderlust.

Photo journalist.

Owner of Wild Grace.

Forever grateful for His truths and wild grace!

Wild Grace Instagram & Facebook @shopwildgrace

BEFORE

shopwildgrace.com 972.205.9819

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // WINTER 2020-21

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BUILDING SIMPLE HAPPINESS STORY BY DIANNA GLENN, OWNER + DESIGNER OF ORGANIZED BY DI

We trudged on through March as the world we knew seemed further and further away. Despair filled the air. I remember months earlier thinking to myself…if only everything would stop for just a little while we could get some things done around here.

This is not what I had in mind. Kids doing school at home. Most of us working from home. No after school activities. No weekend extravagances.

Nothing. Just time. As spring was on the horizon, I told Joe…we can’t waste this. We cannot waste this free time we have been given. We can not let this hurt and fear be in vain. Let’s change what we can.

“Chickens and a coop had been on the back burner for years. But every time we got ready to build a coop or care for chicks, we always had to do something else. One day at the end of March I called Joe and I said we are doing it.”

Why not? We have who knows how many weekends ahead. I had already taken white out to my calendar. So, we bought plans online and joined the other 9 million people who were doing the same. We started building our coop!

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LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // WINTER 2020-21

Luckily the Easter Bunny delivered 12 cute little chicks on that Easter Sunday morning in April. And it was bliss. Our oldest already has a horse and she completely takes care of him. Our second oldest, Jackson, was given the job of chick caregiver. It was still pretty chilly in April so the chicks lived in our tack room under a heat lamp. Every morning Jackson would go to the barn and mix their feed and change their water and then do the same in the evening. I googled and researched the best supplements and ordered those. We were in this! We felt like little farmers. Nowhere to go but to do our chores and take care of our land. The chicks even came into the house from time to time to join in on classroom zooms!!

Joe was still able to go to work and so every weekend in April and May was spent building the coop. The design we picked resembled a farmhouse just like our home which we purchased from @Woodshopmike on Instagram.

Joe built it all himself with the help of our two boys. We painted it white. I picked out solar lantern lights for the sides of the door. We put it in the perfect place by our garden, in the shade.

“We set up an antique rocking bench that was my grandmothers next to it. We spent many evenings sitting out by the coop and garden and enjoying life. My husband even hand engraved our ‘Glenn’s Hens’ sign that sits atop the coop. Each of these personal touches is what adds sentiment to it’s physical structure.”

It is hard to talk about this without coming off as inconsiderate. So many did not have this experience during quarantine. People lost jobs and watched their businesses fail. People battled depression and loneliness.

And as I type this, I realize I am typing in past tense and it really is not over.

For us, we had a choice. We could squander this precious gift of time on Netflix and naps. Or we could do something that we have wanted to do forever.

What we got out of that Quarantine Coop is more than I could have ever imagined. We were able to taste a tiny bit of life as it was when my grandparents were growing up. Waking up at sunrise to care for the animals.

Doing a list of chores. Reading and doing a little schoolwork.

Cooking family dinners and all of us enjoying it. No homework. I LOVED it. Every single little bit of that lifestyle‌ I loved it. I miss it.

It was simple. And even though our kids will not realize it until they are older, they gained so much from our Quarantine Coop too.

As we enter this new year and an even rockier course, I hope that we can all find some simpleness to hold onto. Whether that’s hot chocolate by the fire or cuddled up reading a good book. You may be surprised how you find the most heartwarming, soul fulfilling joy, in the simplest old fashioned things.

DIANNA GLENN OWNER OF ORGANIZED BY DI Dianna Glenn was born and raised in Ennis TX, attended St. John Catholic School and graduated with a degree in Business Management from Texas A&M. She is married to Joe Glenn.

They are raising four kids in their white farmhouse with a horse, cats, dogs, new chickens, and soon to be goats. She enjoys being home and doing projects on their homestead. Recently Dianna incorporated Young Living into the organized mission with a passion for clean organized house and a nontoxic environment.

Follow our organized mission @organizedbydi and follow our family farm journey @diannaglenn.

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // WINTER 2020-21

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Christmas Decor that Matches Your Home STORY & PHOTOS BY COURTNEY WARREN

NEWS FLASH: You don’t have to decorate for Christmas with red and green.

Now, for some of you this is old news. But for others, this revelation is completely liberating. I mean, red and green is what Christmas is “supposed” to be, right? Your grandma, maybe even your mom TOLD you so. Or at least they never had any other combo. From the cross stitch red stockings on the mantel to the red and green Christmas tree place settings on the table, the message was: don’t mess with traditional Christmas colors.

But that was then, and this is now.

Friends, go ahead and hit the reset button, because you absolutely can

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decorate for the holidays with colors that coordinate with -even amplify -the decor style you already have going in your home...only with more Christmas sparkle!

So if you are no longer intimidated by venturing out on holiday color choices, I’m giving you personal permission now to explore new options for seasonal decor. Here are some tips and examples from a favorite client’s home to show you how to pull out the stops and create your most fabulous and welcoming Christmas decor ever.

1. Start with the right tree.

My unswerving counsel about the Christmas tree, folks, is “go big or go home.” Once you’ve chosen colors that optimize your home’s decor and you’ve picked your tree, you’ll want to use oversized ornaments and completely fill your tree with an extravagant variety of shapes, sizes, and textures. A good rule of thumb is: if you can see much of the tree, you don’t have enough ornaments!

To achieve an over-the-top look that coordinated with my client’s home decor, we used a scheme of rose gold, copper, and silver. Glass finials, bulbs and ball ornaments fill every inch for this gorgeous tree. Don’t forget the ribbon, especially the big, wide, glitzy ribbon--it’s my holiday secret weapon.

I love the wide metallic mesh ribbon that curls and swirls around and between large ornaments. Wide satin ribbons are another option--metallic plaids or a black and white awning stripe, as well as shimmering organdy, rich velvets, and beaded anything.

“By the way, I typically advise clients an alternative to the lonely star at the top of the tree and opt instead for a knock-your-socks-off topper. Don’t be shy about large clusters of shiny, sparkly, be-ribboned elements of all kinds that crown your tree in the lavish manner it deserves.”

2. Match your gift wrap to your holiday decor.

Do you want a true designer touch?

Consider gift wrap color. Would you conjure up fabulous blush and metallic trees and then place red or green packages under them?

Of course not! For my client, we procured rose gold and metallic silver paper in solids to maximize the look of the trees in this home and allow them to shine. This is a small simple detail that makes a huge impact on the look of the overall room.

Now, this doesn’t mean that humble kraft paper need not ever apply. For example, if your home’s decor says “vintage cottage” or “classic farmhouse” or even “modernist minimal” and you love subtle colors of nature, artisanal objects, and wood tones, your tree will of course reflect that aesthetic. So have fun embellishing it with lots of your natural or woodland theme and then match your papers to your tree. Wrap those packages in brown kraft paper and insert a sprig of rosemary in the twine bow with my blessing. For more fun, have the kids decorate the paper!

3. Make it magical

There’s never a better time to bring a dazzling, unexpected element to your interiors than during the holidays. Whether it’s a 10-foot tree, a colossal wreath of shimmering glass balls, or an extravagantly sized floral creation on your table, dive in and style like a boss.

In this home, we brought in a stunning life-size sleigh bedecked with garlands of rose gold and silver ornaments and then filled it with wrapped gifts. The kids in this household are convinced they live in a fairyland--or the North Pole. Go ahead, be inspired to create something truly elaborate and unforgettable in your home. It is the most wonderful time of the year.

4. Embrace non-traditional colors

I’ve given you permission to forego red and green in favor of the colors that are already in your home.

Navy? Grey and white? Blush and bashful? How exciting to create a holiday theme in your favorite colors! Just add some greenery (which could be white or metallic) and some glitzy accents and you're halfway there.

In my client’s home, blush tones and mixed metallics were already in play. Her festive decor is an extension of that theme, but of course amped up with more shine and glamor. And why have just ONE tree if you can have more? I like to carry the joy (and color scheme) throughout the house and having multiple trees is one trick I use to accomplish that.

The holidays mean food and gathering around the table, so these special days are a perfect opportunity to set a festive spread with plenty of sparkle. In this elegant dining room, the black notes are a striking counterpoint to the crisp whites and warm blush tones. To bring in the winter wonderland, we didn’t spare the wow factor: plenty of mixed metals, from rose gold to champagne to silver. For a centerpiece, shimmery fruits dazzle in large footed silver bowls surrounded by silver and pearl stylized Christmas trees. All the reflective surfaces bounce the light around the room. Imagine the candles lit--this is a room meant for a party!

I love the gold magnolia leaf chargers under the striking geometric black and white plates. (Gasp!

Black and white for Christmas?? Oh, yes, ma’m!) We finished off this sophisticated setting with rose gold flatware and an extra large gold jingle bell tied with a delicate organdy ribbon. This gorgeous place setting could be serving cold microwave pizza and still look like a five star restaurant.

2020 has been a crazy year, right?

If the prospect of decorating for the holidays brings out only a sigh or a groan, it may be time to shake up your approach. Set those boxes of old, tired things aside for donation. Go out on a limb by looking around your house and asking yourself, “What do I really like?” When you’ve answered that question, you’re on your way to creating a vibrant new holiday look in your home. It may be red and green--but then again, it might not! And that personal touch is what will make your holiday decor special!

Courtney Warren, Dallas-based interior designer, is in high demand for her ability to move clients’ home designs “From Stuck to Stylish”. Her big laugh, quick wit and joyful personality assure her clients that design can be FUN! Courtney’s projects are often featured in national magazines including Better Homes and Gardens Do It Yourself, Kids Rooms, Best of Flea Market Style, Cottages and Bungalows, and American Farmhouse Style, where she has earned distinctive nicknames such as “flea market queen” and “fast-footed bargain hunter”.

Courtney was chosen for TLC’s series Four Houses and is a frequent design consultant and commentator on Fox 4 TV’s Good Day program. She is a pastor’s wife and busy mom of two boys who loves to share favorite quotes (the ones that make her snort-laugh) and current design projects on Instagram @courtneywarrenhome.

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // WINTER 2020-21

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6 Ways to be

the Perfect Guest.....

AND GET INVITED BACK

STORY BY SUSAN BAKER, EVENT PLANNER AND OWNER OF BLISS EVENT MANAGEMENT

The holidays are here and chances are, you are going to be a guest a few times. As an event planner, I see a LOT of guests, some great, and some I would never want to ring my doorbell. When you’re a guest, your goal is to make it as easy on the host as possible and even be a little extra when you can. Here are 6 ways to be your best guest-self, and most importantly, be a guest that gets invited back.

1. GO WITH THE FLOW. This year your host might ask you to take your shoes off before going inside, have only one person serving the food, or move the entire party outside. Whatever the house rules may be this time, be mindful. Dress for the weather, wear cute socks, and come ready to party.

2. ALWAYS BRING FOOD! If your host asked you to bring something specific, stick to it or give them a heads up if you need to make a change. They’re probably depending on your amazing brownies for dessert.

3. MAKE SURE YOUR FOOD IS READY TO SERVE - Cooked, in a serving dish, with the serving utensils needed. Oven space is prime real estate. Your host has spent way too much time cleaning their kitchen for you to come and fill their sink up with dishes because you “will just throw it together when you get there.” Nope.

Nobody likes a “Karen” in the kitchen.

4. THANK YOUR HOST Say thank you when you arrive, when you leave, and again the next day. At least send a text, but if you want to be a hero, a handwritten note goes a long way.

5. BE EXTRA! The host has worked hard to prepare for you.

So, bring a gift if you can. People love to be recognized as a host, even your own mother!

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This isn’t something you need to do every time you’re invited somewhere, but for more special occasions it’s a nice touch. I usually stick to $10$15. Here are some of my favorites to give and receive.

• magnetic wine markers - Every host needs these.

• fresh flowers • dish towels • simple, no-cook breakfast for the next day - muffins, bagels and cream cheese, sliced fruit, etc., just something you can pick up at the store.

• wine - no explanation needed • charcuterie board - bring it filled with good food and leave the board as a thank you

PS - To my hosts out there, I’m cheering you on this holiday season! This time of year is your Super Bowl! Thank you for opening your home to family and friends. You are killing it! Just remember, people aren’t looking for imperfections in your home. They are just excited to be invited. Enjoy them!

6. LASTLY, SMILE FRIENDS! Holidays can be somewhat challenging. If your family doesn’t always get along, especially during a year with a pandemic and an election, guess what - they’re normal. We can all take a deep breath and choose to love them where they are instead of where we think they should be. And if you can’t quite turn that frown upside down, a little liquid encouragement might do the trick.

SUSAN BAKER EVENT PLANNER & OWNER OF BLISS EVENT MANAGEMENT Hi! I’m Susan. I love Jesus. I’m a wife and mother to two sweet little ladies and I’m your party girl. From weddings, to birthdays and everything in between, I love to plan and host all kinds of events because there is always a reason to celebrate. Follow along with me on Instagram and blog for more.

Remember this list when you’re getting ready to be a guest and you will be guaranteed an invitation to the next party! Happy, Merry Everything! Here’s to hoping 2021 is everything we thought 2020 was going to be!

BEFORE

@ blisseventmanagement www.blisseventmanagement.com

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // WINTER 2020-21

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7 Steps To Become a

Homeowner

STORY BY JAKE WILLINGHAM & MORGAN PATAK, WILLINGHAM GROUP, KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY

The homebuying process, while exciting, involves big decisions and can have its share of challenges if not adequately prepared. Even the most prepared are likely to face adversity as each transaction can bring a unique set of challenges. It’s very important to work with an experienced realtor to guide you through each step of the homebuying journey to ensure the best possible experience. After all, there are a lot of people involved in the transaction (lenders, title companies, inspectors, appraisers, surveyors) and it’s critical to have an advocate who understands the ins and outs of each function. We have made it our mission to equip clients with the knowledge and confidence it takes to buy a home.

In our buyer consultations we present our clients with the 7 steps of buying a home in an effort to explain the process as simply and as condensed as possible.

1. PARTNER WITH AN AGENT • Absorb their local insight • Complete needs assessment • Gain access to off-market properties • Setup in MLS • Receive emails with properties matching your criteria, as soon as they hit the market!

2. GET PRE-APPROVED FOR A LOAN • Understand what you can afford • Determine your monthly mortgage payment • Prepare for escrow • Obtain a pre-approval letter 3. SHOP FOR YOUR NEW HOME (YAY!) • Review properties emailed to you • Favorite homes on the MLS • Nix homes that don’t meet the mark • Review property disclosures & exclusions • Schedule home tours with your agent • Decide on your dream home!

4. MAKE YOUR OFFER & NEGOTIATE TERMS • Review contract terms • Determine purchase price • Sign the offer • Execute the contract with the other party • Prepare for down payment & earnest money • Shop home insurance options • Stay in close contact with your agent

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5. UNDER CONTRACT • Deliver earnest & option checks • Schedule inspection & negotiate repairs • Order appraisal • Conduct title search • Secure home loan • Acquire home insurance • Remain in close contact with your agent, lender, & title company • Schedule your closing!

6. BEFORE YOU CLOSE • Set your moving date • Confirm that all contingencies are resolved • Setup utilities • Schedule the final property walk-through • Stay in close contact with your agent, lender, & title company • Obtain a cashier’s check or wire funds & have your driver’s license handy for closing!

7. CLOSING DAY • Sign closing disclosure, promissory note, & other documentation • Save your paperwork in a designated, secure location • Get your keys -

congrats, it’s all yours!

JAKE WILLINGHAM TEAM LEADER, REALTOR® WILLINGHAM GROUP, KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY Jake was born & raised in Ennis, TX! Prior to his career in Real Estate, he spent 10 years of his professional career in education as a teacher & football coach. He & his wife, Cali, met at Texas Tech & have 2 kids; Wimberli & Witten! Jake understands how difficult, overwhelming, & sometimes stressful the home buying process can be.

It’s a huge decision! Entering his 4th year in business, he has proudly served over 130 families! His mission is to equip clients with knowledge & confidence needed to ensure the best possible experience for you & your family. We’re here to serve YOU! jakewillingham@kw.com 972.740.6851

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // WINTER 2020-21

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Ellis County Master GardenErs

Monthly Tips

BY MELINDA KOCIAN, ELLIS COUNTY MASTER GARDENERS ASSOCIATION

tips for

DECEMBER

PLANTING • Plant berry-producing trees and shrubs to add winter color to your landscape. Choices include possumhaw and yaupon holly, Carolina buckthorn, rusty blackhaw viburnum and American beautyberry.

• Plant pre-chilled tulip and hyacinth bulbs mid to late month.

Plant bulbs in masses for best effect.

• Daffodil bulbs may still be planted. Look for early and smallflowering varieties that tend to naturalize and return yearly.

• Considering a living Christmas tree? Choose an adapted plant. Junipers, Arizona cypress and pyramidal hollies are good options. While indoors, place the tree in the brightest natural light and keep soil moist. Do not leave indoors for more than two weeks.

• FERTILIZING AND PRUNING

• Apply a root stimulator such as liquid seaweed or a highphosphorus fertilizer to newly planted trees and shrubs.

• Do not top crape myrtles or remove the central leader of any shade tree. It destroys the crape myrtle’s natural shape, and delays blooming by five or six weeks. If your plant is too tall or too wide, remove or relocate it, and replace with something smaller that won’t require trimming.

• Remove mistletoe from trees as soon as it becomes visible.

Use a pole pruner to remove the entire twig from infected branches before the mistletoe produces berries. There are no effective consumer products to control this parasitic plant.

• GARDEN WATCH

• Protect tender vegetation from the cold with a lightweight frost cloth available at most nurseries and garden centers.

• Continue to water lawns, newly planted trees, shrubs and perennials if rainfall is insufficient.

• Prepare garden soil for spring planting by tilling in 6 inches of organic matter (compost) to a depth of 8 to 10 inches.

• Take time during the holidays to check out the new seed and nursery catalogues. Order early to ensure availability.

• Let’s not forget our feathered friends during the winter when their natural food supply is limited. Providing sunflower, safflower and thistle seed, suet and fruit will attract many species of birds to your backyard. And be sure to provide water.

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tips for

January

PLANTING • Plant trees, shrubs and woody ornamentals from nursery containers. Plant slightly above ground line to allow root flare to be exposed.

• Transplant small trees and shrubs while they are dormant.

Water the plant well before digging it.

• Plant cold-tolerant herbs such as chives, cilantro, garlic and parsley; onion transplants late month.

• Seed for warm-weather annuals can be planted in flats in a temperature-controlled environment. Tomatoes and peppers can be started from seed mid-month. All require bright light and warm temperatures (60-70ºF). Use grow lights for best results.

• Tulip and hyacinth bulbs which have been chilled for 8 weeks should be planted immediately.

• Plant blackberries, fruit and nut trees. Contact the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service - Ellis County at 972-8255175 or visit http://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/fruit-nut for recommended varieties. Cultivar or variety selection is critical.

FERTILIZING AND PRUNING • Prune trees, including live oaks and red oaks, to remove dead, broken and unwanted branches. Apply pruning paint to any cut/wound on your oak trees to prevent oak wilt.

• Water newly planted trees and shrubs as needed; and apply a liquid root stimulator monthly.

• Peach and plum trees should be pruned to stimulate lateral branches and keep their “bowl” shape. Thin out branches to open the center to allow more sunlight, resulting in fruit production over the entire tree.

• Apply blood meal or a slow-release fertilizer to pansies and other cool-season annuals.

• Maintain free-form crape myrtles by removing “sprouts” growing from the base, but never cut the tops out. It produces unsightly knots and delays blooming. Removing spent seed pods is OK.

GARDEN WATCH • Remove by hand, broadleaf weeds such as clover, dandelions, henbit and chickweed in lawns and beds. If necessary, spray turf with a broadleaf herbicide when temperatures are above 70 degrees. Be careful when using herbicides to prevent the drift from harming desirable plants.

• Don’t Guess, Soil Test! The best way to determine your soil’s fertility needs is to have it tested. Contact the local AgriLife Extension office at 972-825-5175 for a Soil Sample Information Form, or go to http://soiltesting.tamu.edu.

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // WINTER 2020-21

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Season of Hope Well, what a year. We all had milestones, events and things we were looking forward to in 2020.

This was supposed to be the year I celebrated my 60th birthday in Tuscany; the year we finally built a house on the farm; the biggest year ever in our catering business. Instead, we are a part of a global choir wishing this year would just end.

As two weeks turned into two months here we are almost a year into the coronavirus pandemic that has brought profound change to almost every part of our lives — how we live, how we travel, how we work. Many of us have lost loved ones and experienced grief we never saw coming.Almost a full year with no big weddings, no summer camp, no graduations, no holiday dinners with extended family; Little to look forward to except a new Netflix show or maybe learning to make sourdough bread at home. It’s like the whole world has been put on pause.

So when a year is stripped of all of those moments, how do we measure the seasons, milestones, rituals and events? People feel lost and struggle to manage their expectations. Is everything else we’re doing this year going to be drained of significance because it doesn’t have proper sequence? Experts who study human behavior say the human desire to pin failures, hopes and dreams on a period of time like a calendar year has primitive roots connected to our attachment to routine.

Are we destined to put too much expectation on 2021? Yes, because we want and need a sense of normalcy, a secure routine and some well deserved happiness. All of that comes from a new cycle of hope that gets recalibrated and

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refocused on a new target and soars again.

“Hope,” the poet Emily Dickinson wrote, “is the thing with feathers.”

If not for hope, why would data show that most of the respondents to a recent Wedding Wire survey have postponed their planned 2020 nuptials to next year, but only 7% have canceled their wedding completely? People need love and hope. As a caterer I am grateful many clients have rescheduled for the New Year. Hope requires us to look at the present situation and regard it for what it is, and plan for its betterment.

I am personally very hopeful. I think 2021 is going to be a year of rebirth. Hope will help us endure the pandemic and thrive. We are strong and will get through the many obstacles we have faced as a nation this year.

Nobody knows what the “new normal” will look like. Will there be wedding ceremonies featuring every person a couple has ever met, packed stadiums, concert venues with thousands of people swaying to their favorite tunes? Will milestone birthdays get rescheduled one year late? Will we even care?

There are no clear answers. But there is always hope. Jeremiah 29:11 says: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Cindy Burch and her husband, Andrew, own and operate The Doves Nest in historic downtown Waxahachie.

Cindy is also a freelance writer, caterer and consultant. Her award-winning cookbook, “The Doves Nest Restaurant: New American Recipes From A Historic Texas Town,” is in its fifth printing.

May we all stand on that promise and trust God in this new season.

Cindy Burch

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