January 2014 Ellis County Living Magazine

Shopping Music Home Travel Health Medical LM I Ellis County Living Magazine

HOME OF THE YEAR 2014

January-February 2014/living-magazine.com

HOME OF THE YEAR 2014

* Conservative Republican * Native Texan * Combat Veteran *

Jake Ellzey For State Representative

www.JakeEllzey.com

******************************* Reform the business margins tax to create jobs * * Increase the state’s capabilities to secure the border and * * * * *

stop the trafďŹ cking of people, weapons and drugs Return control of schools to local educators and parents Balance the budget without raising taxes Vote to protect the life of the unborn As member of NRA and TSRA, will protect 2nd ammendment rights Honor all veterans and assist those with disabilities

Jake Ellzey is a retired member of the U.S. Navy. Use of his military rank, job titles, and photographs in uniform does not imply endorsement by the Department of the Navy or the Department of Defense. Political ad paid for by the Jake Ellzey Campaign.

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Your GATEWAY to HOMETOWN service and expertise

www.TheSchmidtGrp.com When you are looking for hometown service backed by expert, local professionals, turn to The Schmidt Group at Gateway Mortgage. Their Waxahachie office has over 90 years’ experience in the mortgage industry and best of all, they live and work right here in ELLIS COUNTY. The Schmidt Group promises you: • A community - first approach • Local underwriting and reliable closings • Service for a lifetime So whether you are purchasing a new home, considering refinancing or even seeking access to your home’s equity, they have the right solution to meet nearly any mortgage need.

Your Local Mortgage Team JEFF SCHMIDT - 817.681.7897 Regional Manager, RMLO 91368

TOM KER - 972.365.7022 Senior Loan Officer, RMLO 356892

NICK HESTER - 469.855.9262 Senior Loan Officer, RMLO 338108

TERRY WOOTEN - 214.949.9285 Senior Loan Officer, RMLO 224831

Office: 972.937.2200 | 100 Executive Court #3 | Waxahachie, TX 75165

Gateway Mortgage Group, LLC NMLS 7233

New Hours: 10AM - 6PM Mon-Sat

Beaut iful Smile

this year have a

Dr. Atkins & his family

Family, Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry D I G I TA L R A D I O G R A P H Y • S E D AT I O N D E N T I S T RY INTRAORAL PHOTOGRAPHY • INVISALIGN

General Dentistry

1408 W. Jefferson St. (Next to Baylor Medical Center) www.WaxahachieDentalPractice.com 972-937-8433

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

34

2014

2014 HOME OF THE YEAR: GETTING BACK TO NATURE

24 12

LOCAL FASHION TO BRING IN THE NEW YEAR

BOOKS TO MOVIES 2014

JANUARY

FEBRUARY

FASHION

NEW YEAR, NEW GEAR 12 HELLO BEAUTIFUL! 16

LIFE & STYLE

WINE WONDERS FROM DOWN UNDER 20 RECIPES FROM THE HEART 22 2014 BOOKS TO MOVIES 24 10-YEAR SPECIAL: EDITORS 26 TRAVEL: HOME AWAY FROM HOME 28 GUY TALK: THE MAKING OF A HOME 30 A MOTHER’S TALE: ORGANIZING THE CHAOS 32

HOME & GARDEN 2014 HOME OF THE YEAR 34 10-YEAR SPECIAL: WRITERS 42 KITCHEN REDO 46 JANUARY/FEBRUARY PLANTS 48

> COUNTY NEWS 52

MEDICAL

CRAVINGS DECODED 58 SLEEP APNEA & YOUR DENTIST 60 OWNER OF A HEALTHY HEART 62 HEALTHY HEART DIET 64 ADHD 66

> CINDY BURCH: LIFE IS GOOD... 68

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LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014

Building Premiere Custom Homes in Ellis and Surrounding Counties

We will help you create the home of your dreams - Justin Crocker and Paul Corp, Owners

717 West Main Street Suite #6 • Midlothian Office Phone: 972-723-7507 • Office Fax: 972-723-7533 Paul@CanyonCreekTexas.com • Justin@CanyonCreekTexas.com

www.CanyonCreekTexas.com

Living

ELLIS COUNTY

MAGAZINE

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 1 PUBLISHER CINDY CAMP CREATIVE DIRECTOR JENNIFER KEMP EDITOR KATHRYN KEMP ASSOCIATE CREATIVE DIRECTOR LINDSEY KEENEY ADVERTISING PAMELA MCCRORY CHRIS BENNETT CFO SUSAN KOSORIS

CINDY has been a force in Ellis County for more than 20 years. An optimistic and generous leader, she has supported many local organizations throughout her time living in Waxahachie, and has spent the last 10 years leading the team in making a publication our county can be proud of.

The idea of a magazine for our county came to me in 2002; it was the political season and I saw a need for a countywide publication. Little did I know that a few years later, the magazine would be born. It’s been great working with all of the contributing writers, and building connections with fabulous locals like Diane John-

son, Katherine Donaldson and Cindy Burch. I look forward to reading what’s on their minds each issue!

In the early years, Jennifer Kemp and I would work into the wee morning hours.

With a blank page in front of us, we’d sit and come up with “the list.” It didn’t matter if it was jewelry, food or clothing, we had so much fun being creative. Now Kathryn and Lindsey get to do that along with Jennifer. My philosophy about having a local magazine and hiring smart, fashionable young people, all from our county, working in their chosen profession, makes me love what I do!

- CINDY CAMP, PUBLISHER

INTERN TRISTA MCCORMICK A special thanks to all of our contributing writers.

Ellis County Living Magazine is published bi-monthly

by ECL Media, Inc.© using only environmentally friendly ink.

Copyright 2014, ECL Media, Inc.© All rights reserved.

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

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

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.

My favorite issue has to be September 2013, the Wedding Issue that had my daughter-in-law Samantha in her bridal gown and with her beautiful bouquet on the front cover, as well as a lovely article written by Theresa Choate about Samantha and Kevin’s wedding. I also love the wonderful coverage the magazine gives to the Ellis County SPCA, Hope Clinic and other nonprofits in our area. And, of course, it is especially fun to work here during production when Kathryn brings her cats who sit in my lap while I am editing!

- SUSAN KOSORIS, CFO - 3 YEARS

You know when you see or read something and it stirs something within you? Well that is how I felt when I first ran across Living Magazine while living in Corsicana. I felt an instant connection and upon moving here and meeting Cindy for the first time – within three hours I was coming to work for her! I love this magazine and I love the dedication it takes issue after issue. If I were to pick my favorite part, it would be when I see each issue for the first time; the cover, the format, the rich colors, the excitement of seeing my clients’ ads come to life…Thank you Cindy for seeing a need 10 years ago and enriching all of our lives with such a beautiful publication.

- PAMELA MCCRORY, AD REP - 3 YEARS

Follow us on Facebook, Pinterest & Twitter! facebook.com/EllisCountyLiving pinterest.com/eclivingmag twitter.com/ECLiving

Guarantee you’ll receive Ellis County Living Magazine by subscribing today!

Go to www.living-magazine.com and click on “subscriptions.”

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LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014

My favorite cover of the magazine is the November/December 2013 because it symbolizes everything that I love; the holidays and my first issue since I have worked here. I would say my favorite memory is being hired, but it is actually the first time we went out for dinner for Lindsey’s birthday. While the magazine has the reputation around Ellis County for being extremely classy and professional, I realized that we are also family and we look out for each other.

- CHRIS BENNETT, AD REP - 3 MONTHS COVER PHOTO BY BRENT HUGHES PHOTOGRAPHY STAFF PHOTOS BY MARIE Q PHOTOGRAPHY

JENNIFER, CREATIVE DIRECTOR - 7 YEARS

Seven years older and seven years wiser? I have loved watching the magazine transform over the years and playing a part in its growth as it has evolved into the magazine it is today. There are way too many great memories of my time here to really even list and some would probably prefer I didn’t! I would have to say some of my best memories come from the all-nighters/in-office camp outs during deadline with TV series marathons we get way too excited about (Lost and True Blood to name a few), late night trips to the store for useless purchases, pampering sessions and, of course, the countless delirious conversations and storytelling. This is a one-of-a-kind group that I am so lucky to call my work family.

UTTING HIGHLIGHTS OF P ER: H THIS ISSUE TOGET > Being fascinated by cool photo techniques at the Home of the Year photo shoot with Brent Hughes > Throwing a kitty birthday party – twice. Once for Susan’s birthday, once for our intern Trista’s.

(Thanks Trista for the special kitty photos we found after you used the camera.)

KATHRYN, EDITOR - 2 YEARS

There are really too many favorite memories to list them all. I love brainstorming ideas at the beginning of each new issue, then watching as it all comes together at the end. In between, we love making fantastic things happen at the office. When we’re on deadline, it can be pretty stressful, but it is also fun because we usually have a few slumber parties (minus the slumber).

Favorite moments include: The time I watched/listened to Bridget Jones’ Diary on repeat over 25 times (no joke). My British accent was more bloody brilliant than ever.

The time Lindsey tried to eat 2-year-old organic macaroni and cheese because we didn’t want to go get food.

Looking for stock photos online, then making fake layouts for Jennifer and Lindsey with the absolute weirdest pictures I’ve ever seen. Seriously, check out Shutterstock or iStock and ask yourself what kind of people took the time to create some of the photos you find.

LINDSEY, ASSOCIATE CREATIVE DIRECTOR - 1 YEAR I cannot believe I have been at the magazine for over a year now. Wow, time flies when you are having fun!

Some of my favorite memories include: endless jokes with Kathryn that get even funnier at 2 a.m. when you’re on deadline and haven’t slept, learning all about the magazine and tricks of the trade from Jennifer, getting to be creative on a daily basis, passing out magazines on Halloween (in costumes of course), when Kathryn’s cats come to the office, helping come up with article and fashion titles, and of course, last but not least, getting to see my work come to life.

This issue marks the beginning of Ellis County Living Magazine’s 10th year.

We’ve loved every minute, and hope you have too.

Here’s to many, many more!

> Snack runs for things like donuts, Starbucks Doubleshot Espressos and SpaghettiOs

> Jennifer’s emergence from the bathroom with a mud mask on - and Lindsey’s frightened response.

> Watching great movies at 1 a.m., including Precious and Holiday in Handcuffs with Mario Lopez and Melissa Joan Hart.

> Round two of KFC mashed potatoes. #tooblessedtobestressed LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014

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{ AROUND TOWN { A LOT IS HAPPENING IN ELLIS COUNTY...

EDITOR’S NOTE A new year can mean many different things. It can be a fresh start after a not-so-pleasant year.

It can mean time to start that new healthy routine you’ve been planning to adopt. It could motivate you to start on that looming project or finally volunteer for that special cause. Whatever it means for you, I wish you all the luck in achieving your goals in the New Year.

Here at the magazine, 2014 marks the beginning of our 10th year, and we are so honored to have been a part of the community and our readers’ lives for so many wonderful years! We love every minute of it, and hope to continue to entertain, educate and excite you for many years to come.

In this issue, we bring you a beautiful Home of the Year with lots of great pictures, some updates on our county, tips to keep you healthy, and plenty of other great articles we know you’ll enjoy. Plus, we’ve got some blasts from the past in honor of our anniversary.

Up next we have the Everything Spring issue, sure to get you in the mood for some sunshine and springtime fun!

Enjoy this issue, and as always, if you have any questions, comments or ideas, email me at kathryn@living-magazine.com.

12TH ANNUAL HEALTH FAIR AND COMMUNITY FEST

JANUARY 18, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Ennis High School Medical screenings, book giveaways, art display, face painting, and everything in between. Lots of healthy fun for the family!

KEEPING THE DREAM ALIVE GALA AND SILENT AUCTION JANUARY 19 SPJST Hall, Ennis Silent Auction - 6:00 p.m.

Dinner served at 6:30 p.m.

Program 7:00 p.m.

RUN FOR THEIR LIVES 5K HERO RUN

JANUARY 25, 8 to 10:45 a.m.

Getzendaner Park, Waxahachie Support the Texas Baptist Home for Children at their 3rd annual 5k.

Proceeds will help families receive needed resources after adoption.

DEAR (DROP EVERYTHING & READ) DAY FEBRUARY 7, 8:30 to 10:30 a.m.

WISD Schools Volunteers read to classrooms from PreK to 8th grade for 15-minute sessions. Call 972.923.4631 for more.

ENNIS CZECH MUSIC FESTIVAL

FEBRUARY 8, 1 – 10:30 p.m.

Sokol Activity Center, Ennis Listen & dance to six bands and enter to win raffle prizes. Admission is $7 per person, free for 14 & under.

9TH ANNUAL JAZZ CAFÉ

FEBRUARY 8, 6:30 to 11 p.m.

Waxahachie Civic Center Enjoy the sounds of the Waxahachie Jazz Orchestra live. Visit spiritofwaxahachie.com/jazzcafe/ for more.

SHARE THE LOVE GALA 2014

FEBRUARY 15, 6 to 11 p.m.

Waxahachie Civic Center Dinner and auction benefitting CASA of Ellis County. Visit casaofelliscounty. org for more.

MOCKINGBIRD PARK WINTER WALK FEBRUARY 22, 10 a.m.

Mockingbird Nature Park 1361 Onward Rd., Midlothian Follow the Indian Trail Master Naturalists of Ellis County on a 1-mile hike through the park with nature activity stations. Sponsored by Methodist Mansfield Medical Center.

WISD LIGHTHOUSE FOR LEARNING SPRING SEMESTER BEGINS

FEBRUARY 24, 6 to 8 p.m.

Community education classes to encourage lifelong learning. Visit wisd. org to find a schedule of classes.

13TH ANNUAL GINGERBREAD HOUSE CHILI COOK-OFF & BARN DANCE FEBRUARY 14-16 Ellis County Expo Center, Waxahachie Benefitting the Gingerbread House (Ellis County Children’s Advocacy Center). For more, visit elliscountycac. org, or contact John Wyckoff at john. eccac@ectisp.net or 972.937.1870.

For updates and chances to win free stuff, be sure to “like” us on Facebook and visit our blog at www.living-magazine.com.

Do you have an event you want everyone to know about?

Send an e-mail to: EDITOR@LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM

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SHOPPING

WAXAHACHIE LADIES’ NIGHT OUT

JANUARY 9 Downtown Waxahachie Participating merchants will be open late the second Thursday of every month, offering discounts, snacks and fun.

JUNK IN THE TRUNK

JANUARY 11 Downtown Waxahachie Waxahachie’s Junk in the Trunk is a community-wide resale event. Businesses and residents come and sell treasures around the courthouse square!

SINCE 1850

MARTIN LUTHER KING DAY PARADE JANUARY 20 Begins in Downtown Waxahachie

LADIES’ NIGHT OUT

FEBRUARY 13 Downtown Waxahachie Participating merchants will be open late the second Thursday of every month, offering discounts, snacks and fun.

CHECK IT OUT custom Headboards! Drop by and see our samples. michele Hampton will customize one for you! as the creative force behind check it out, she and her staff can design, transform and decorate your home from top to bottom.

212 S Rogers Street, Waxahachie 972.938.2403 | cHecKiToUTFaBRicS.neT

CROOKED CREEK FARMS “Waxahachie’s Unique antique experience” come junk with us!

Store Hours: Thurs - Sat 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. & Sun 1 p.m. - 6 p.m.

510 W main Street, Waxahachie 214.463.5169 | 510anTiQUeS.com

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON ALL OF THE FUN THINGS GOING ON IN DOWNTOWN WAXAHACHIE, VISIT...

WWW.DOWNTOWNWAXAHACHIE.COM

Blingin’ Gypsy Catfish Plantation Check It Out Cherics Antiques Citizens National Bank of Texas College Street Printing College Street Restaurant & Pub Common Threads Quilting Cozee’s Little Cottage Crafty Scrapper Crooked Creek Farms Antiques Doves Nest Restaurant El Basha Hookah Lounge Ellis County Art Assoc-Museum Ellis County Living Magazine Ellis County Museum Eubank Florist & Gifts Frank’s Urban Collection FRESH at Villa Flora Gingerbread Antique Mall Glenn’s Warehouse Carpet Gran’s Antiques Grow My Biz hodge • podge Junction 22 KBEC Radio Klassy Klutter Main Street Dental Arts Maxwell Jewelry Mosaic Madness Ms. Bogg’s Bling My Father’s House Antiques My Whimsical Country Cottage NAPA Auto Parts/Pool Supplies NOW Magazines Old Fashioned Singing Project Old Town Villiage Antiques Origami Owl Paul Manigrasso, CPA Pearman Oil & LP Gas Inc Plain Jane & Co. Red Barn Salon Friends SoCo Depot T. Beresford The Boyce Feed & Grain Corp Tire Town Waxahachie Daily Light Wray, Willett & Stoffer Zula’s Coffee House



Downtown

Members of the Waxahachie Downtown Merchants Association:

FREE

Parking Garage

n and Jefferson at the corner of Jackso

NEW YEAR...

DRESS, Chic Boutique $42.95 JACKET, Briarpatch $52 BOOTS, Chic Boutique $35 CLUTCH, SoCo Depot $35 EARRINGS, Chic Boutique $13.95 BRIGHTON BRACELET, Briarpatch $88

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DRESS, Briarpatch $99 CARDIGAN, Briarpatch $78 PURSE, Chic Boutique $86 EARRINGS, The Doves Nest $12.95 BRACELET, Stella & Dot $59 STACKABLE RINGS, Stella & Dot $49

New Gear!

TOP, Chic Boutique $34.95 LEGGINGS, Plain Jane $18.99 JACKET, Briarpatch $80 SHOES, Plain Jane $28.99 SCARF, The Studio $18 NECKLACE, The Studio $15

DRESS, Chic Boutique $30.95 LEGGINGS, Plain Jane $18.99 CLUTCH, SoCo Depot $45 NECKLACE, The Doves Nest $24.95 EARRINGS, The Studio $9 BRACELET, Stella & Dot $ 29

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FASHION

START OFF WITH A BANG

TOP, Briarpatch $46 MISS ME JEANS, Briarpatch $88 BRIGHTON PURSE, Briarpatch BOOTS, Chic Boutique $35 NECKLACE, The Studio $27 EARRINGS, The Doves Nest $10.95

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DRESS, Briarpatch $69 JACKET, Chic Boutique $64 CLUTCH, SoCo Depot $35 NECKLACE, Stella & Dot $79 BRACELET, Stella & Dot $49 EARRINGS, The Doves Nest $6.95

living-magazine.com // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014

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FASHION

! l u f ti u a e B O HELL

SHINE ON

Ever wish you could have shiny, smooth hair like celebrities? Well you can, and you don’t have to break the bank to get it! Having soft hair not only looks healthier, but also helps make styling much easier.

There are three little strategies pros use - they’ll end your gloss envy for good.

BE BOLD

Be a little adventurous and step out with a bright hue! These colors are sure to get some attention!

Do a MASK

YoUR STYle.

The straighter hair is, the more it reflects light. Try using Bumble and Bumble Tonic Spritz ($20, luxe Salon). a blend of herbs, vitamins and tea tree oil replaces moisture, soothes, detangles and comes close to your oldschool barber elixirs.

Blow dry smooth and run a flat iron from roots to ends. Then glide in a bit of shineenhancing oil - try Suave Professionals moroccan infusion Styling oil ($6, Walmart).

with natural oils weekly. garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine moroccan Sleek oil Treatment ($5, Wal-mart) will give you sleek, smooth, deep conditioning of argan oil from morocco without any oily residue. You can also try this DiY glaze: mix 1/2 cup aloe vera juice and 1/4 cup avocado oil, like Tree of life ($7, ann’s Health Food). leave on dry hair for 30 minutes, shampoo and shine on.

Precious Plum OPI nail lacquer in Pamplona Purple $9, UlTa.com

Totally Teal

SALLY HANSEN complete Salon manicure nail Polish in Fairy Teal $7, DRUg SToReS

Warm Red

CHANEL le vernis in Rouge Rubis $27, cHanel.com

High-Shine Silver

ORLY nail lacquer in Shine

Brilliant Blue

$8.50, SallY’S BeaUTY

BUTTER LONDON nail lacquer in inky Six

$10, BUTTeRlonDon.com

GARNIER FRUCTIS Sleek & Shine moroccan Sleek oil Treatment

NEW TAKE ON TEXTURE 2014 new York Fashion week was all about doing nails up, and doing them up as much as you can! Try some of these flashy new textures to dress your nails in style.

Graffiti Nails

BEAD IT NAIL ROCK caviar manicure Kit in Jupiter

$8, URBanoUTFiTTeRS.com

SANDY TEXTURE OPI mariah carey 2013 collection in Stay the night $9, oPi.com

Mix it up Whether it’s with unlikely color combinations or a mix & match of shapes and designs, be daring and opt for some “out of the ordinary” nail art.

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THENAILASAURUS.COM

natural bristles (like boar) boost shine better than synthetic ones and are gentler on the hair. Use a flat bush when combing out and be sure to brush through hair each night to help natural oils distribute evenly through the hair. When styling, try using a medium round for styling and adding volume or small round to create soft curls and waves.

Try the Hot n Silky Boar Bristle Thermal ceramic Round Brush ($7, Sally’s Beauty Supply).

POLISH

Nails:

SAMMY TREMLIN,

WiTH KinDneSS.

Nails,

The current polish craze is all about bold colors, flashy textures and unexpected shade combos.

{

BRUSH

Nails,

BY JoHnnie SmiTH

living-magazine.com // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014

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FASHION

! l u f ti u a e B O HELL

ARE YOU BLUSHING? Do you ever find yourself saying, “Is blush really necessary?”

i profoundly proclaim to you, YeS! iT iS! Blush can help you achieve many beauty looks. There are so many options – liquids, powders, colors and different techniques.

Suddenly, something so simple as applying blush in a round motion across your cheeks doesn’t seem so simple after all.

TYPES OF BLUSH Powder. This is great for normal to dry skin. You can apply powder blush to your cheeks with a blush brush, and this helps you apply as much or as little as you would like to your face. You can also use mineral powder blush for a more radiant, healthy look.

Cream. This type of blush is best applied using your fingertips or a blending brush (try mac cosmetics brush #130). Because it is a cream, this blush can also be used on normal to dry skin and even combination/ oily skin. it is also great for the warmer days when you just want something a bit more airy and you’re afraid that your powder may melt down your face.

Stain. cheek stains are also great for warmer temperatures, especially when you skip foundation and opt for tinted moisturizer or nothing at all. Stains are great for every skin type, but they are somewhat difficult to use because of how highly pigmented they are. a trick: apply a light moisturizer right before to help the stain move or glide smoothly onto the face.

Blushing Beauty

Jessica Alba

CHEEK SHADES Depending on the look you’re going for, the shade of blush does matter. You can pick warmer colors such as coral to give you more of a boho-goddess glow, or you can pick cooler colors such as fuchsia and baby pink. a great way to find out what cheek colors best suit your skin tone is by lightly pinching your cheeks. if you want to go for a more dramatic look, or if you just want to explore a bit more, go to a store like Sephora or the beauty counter at a department store and try some different colors.

TECHNIQUES AND APPLICATION You can use a brush, sponge or even your fingers to apply blush. Utilize a sponge with a non-powder type of blush.

Focus on the apples of the cheeks for a more natural application. Bronzers and highlighters can be utilized when going for a more contoured look. Use a brush and move in upward motions while sucking in cheeks to apply bronzer in creasing. This will create definition to the face.

Then apply your highlighter to the tops of the cheekbones, where light would naturally reflect from the face.

JOHNNIE is the owner/artist

behind the hair and makeup company Prettibloom Artistry. As a licensed cosmetologist, and with over 10 years’ experience in the beauty industry, her work and clientele has been seen both locally and nationwide. Contact her at johnnie@prettibloom.com.

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LIFE & STYLE { WINE REVIEW }

WINE WONDERS FROM

DOWN UNDER

BY JeFF KoSoRiS

g’day, mates. This month the wine trekkers took a tasting tour of Koalaland…the land Down Under. Thus we made a most perilous journey... central expressway...to a Dallas restaurant where a privileged few, dominated by the discriminating palates from living magazine, took on australian wines. We were led by Paul lapsley, the chief winemaker for one of the largest wine conglomerates on the continent, accolade Wines, and a nominee for Winemaker of the Year. Paul oversees many master winemakers, acting as a consultant to insure quality. accolade Wines owns many wineries, small local producers and some large exporters. The two pre-eminent wineries discussed were Hardys and Hardys nottage Hill.

- probably best to accompany a meal but both were well received. The nottage Hill is a very large production wine, half a million cases, ten times the amount of Hardy chardonnay produced. either would pair well with pickled platypus.

blackberry...along with notes of oak, cedar, spice, smoke, chocolate and tobacco. They vary, of course, depending on soil, climate and the winemaker’s craft.

Hardys celebrates its 160th anniversary this year, and in 1967 started the nottage Hill Winery, named for the Hardys’ cousins, the nottage family, who helped build the business over four generations.

The reds are always my favorites. We segued into reds with the 2012 nottage Hill Pinot noir. again the fruit is the star, with some smoky character, just a really good wine. The lighter body of a pinot makes it hard to hide flaws, and this easy-drinking accompaniment to lighter fare, or by the glass, offers good tannins and a smooth finish, retailing for $13, a super buy.

We tasted the nottage Hill 2012 ($13), the William Hardy 2011 ($17), and the Tintara 2010 ($19) Shiraz. They all blend Shiraz from different regions to achieve expression of the warm- and cold-climate grapes. The nottage Hill strives to highlight the fruit, and 2012 was a great year, producing wine with robust dark fruit with a little oak; the Hardy was drier, more full bodied, with a nice balance and finish, very enjoyable. a nice feature of the Hardy was the use of some Western australia grapes that add a black pepper essence, evident in both the nose and the taste, interesting and delicious. The Tintara was even more full bodied, all cool weather fruit, aged 14 months in oak; a more intense dark red fruit presence, more complex aromas, really a nice drinking wine to pair with meats.

We began with chardonnays, William Hardy and nottage Hill, both 2012 and retailing for $17 and $13 respectively. australia has two basic climate zones, a warmer inland region and cooler southern/coastal regions. The inland grapes tend to be fruitier, more crisp, highlighting the brightness of the fruit and developing more sugars. i found the nottage Hill, from mainly inland grapes, to be more sauvignon blanc-like, refreshing. The Hardy vintage came from “cool region” grapes, offering more acidity - a bit more oak, dry, medium-bodied

The rest of the reds tasted were nearly 100 percent shiraz (as they call the Syrah grape there). Shiraz is easy to find; australia is a big wine exporting country, and there are some super low-priced versions, such as Yellowtail, that seem to be ubiquitous. However, shiraz can be a super high-end wine like Penfolds grange, which you can buy for a few hundred bucks a bottle, or you could trade your aston martin for a rare vintage. Shiraz wines are often described with these flavors: black cherry, currant, plum,

Paul’s pride and joy was the 2008 Winemaker’s Rare Release Handpicked Shiraz, maxing out the plastic at $200 a bottle. Super concentrated, elegant and peppery, richly flavored fruit...described in the winery notes as, “not for the shy.” This wine will actually mature slowly and cellar for up to 50 years, no kidding! very rich, good tannins and the notes read, “power to burn; layers of explosive opulent fruit,” and...well, you get the idea. What a treat. i promise to update you on the drinkability of this one in 2063.

Paul explained that australian-style wines are mainly about the brightness of the fruit, not trying to overwhelm the expression of the grape, which he believes is more popular with consumers rather than striving for a “ big, voluptuous style.” i leave that interpretation to your imagination.

Handpicked Shiraz

WILLIAM HARDY NOTTAGE HILL CHARDONNAY CHARDONNAY

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NOTTAGE HILL PINOT NOIR

living-magazine.com // JanUaRY-FeBRUaRY 2014

NOTTAGE HILL WILLIAM HARDY SHIRAZ SHIRAZ

TINTARA SHIRAZ

RARE RELEASE SHIRAZ

living-magazine.com // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014

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LIFE & STYLE { IN THE KITCHEN }

RECIPES FROM THE

HEART

As February 14 nears, matters of the heart are front and center. As you plan and plot to show your loved one how much you care, don’t forget about taking care of their health (and yours!), too. Here are some heart-healthy recipes from the American Heart Association to get you started.

Baked Apples/ Pears with Almonds

Chicken Paella SeRveS 6 cooking spray 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenderloins, visible fat removed, cut into 1-inch cubes 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil or vegetable oil 1 medium green bell pepper, thinly sliced 1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced 1 small onion, chopped 2 medium tomatoes, chopped and lightly mashed in a bowl with a fork (save the juices!)

1 small can green peas, no salt added 1 teaspoon garlic, minced from jar 1/2 teaspoon parsley 1/4 teaspoon saffron or 1/8 teaspoon turmeric 1 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth 2 cups long grain brown rice, prepared to package instructions

SeRveS 4 4 small granny Smith or golden Delicious apples (can substitute any variety of apple or use pears as available or on sale) 1/4 cup unsalted, unoiled almonds 2 tablespoons dried cranberries or raisins (no sugar added) 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 2 teaspoons honey Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. cut 1/2 inch off the top of the apples, save the tops.

Using a spoon or paring knife, core out the apples, leaving a bottom/base in tact. chop almonds. in a small bowl, combine almonds, cranberries, and cinnamon – stir gently.

Drizzle in honey and stir until almonds and cranberries are coated. Spoon almond mixture into apples and replace tops. Fill a small baking dish with 1/4 inch of water, place apples in dish and cover with loosely tented foil. Bake 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until apples are tender and lightly golden.

Spray a large skillet with cooking spray, add chicken and cook over mediumhigh heat 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove chicken from pan. add oil, bell peppers and onions to skillet – stir well and cook 5 minutes until onions begin to become translucent. add tomatoes, peas, garlic, parsley and saffron or turmeric. Stir and cook 2 minutes more. Reduce to medium low-heat, add broth and chicken, stir well and cover.

Simmer for 20 minutes. add rice, mix well and heat until warmed through. if you like chinese fried rice, you’ll love this Spanish version!

DIOS

©2012 DICK PATRICK STU

Jerk Pork Sandwiches with Mango Sauce SeRveS 6 1 small white onion, thinly sliced 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon thyme 1/2 teaspoon allspice 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger 1/4 teaspoon cloves 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (use 1/2 if you don’t like spicy foods) 1 1/4 pound pork loin or roast, visible fat removed 2 cups fat-free, low sodium beef stock combine all spices in a bowl and mix well.

Rub spice mixture over pork. Pour beef stock in slow cooker, gently add pork and onions. cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours.

Mango Sauce

1 large mango, diced 1 tablespoon honey or agave nectar 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped Juice of 1/2 lime 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (or 1 teaspoon dry) Use whole-wheat sandwich buns, corn tortillas (made without any type of hydrogenated fat or tropical oils, such as palm or coconut oil) or whole wheat pitas to make sandwiches or tacos – add pork and top with mango sauce. Dress to taste with sliced lettuce, cabbage, tomato, etc.

Recipes copyright © 2012 American Heart Association. These recipes are brought to you by the American Heart Association’s Simple Cooking with Heart Program.

For more simple, quick and affordable recipes, visit heart.org/simplecooking.

living-magazine.com // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014

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To

2014

BOOKS

MOVIES

Be sure to read these books r before they make their silve ! screen debuts later this year

BY KATHRYN KEMP

SEVENTH SON

THE MAZE RUNNER

BY oRSon ScoTT caRD

BY JameS DaSHneR

EXPECTED RELEASE DATE: January 17 NOTEWORTHY CAST: Julianne moore, Jeff Bridges, antje Traue (man of Steel) Young Thomas, the seventh son of a seventh son, learns to fight evil spirits and use his own powerful gifts.

EXPECTED RELEASE DATE: September 19 NOTEWORTHY CAST: Patricia clarkson (Shutter island, The green mile), Thomas Brodie-Sangster (love actually, nanny mcPhee), Will Poulter (We’re the millers) in yet another take on the post-apocalyptic world, Thomas finds himself with his memory erased in a community of young boys, trapped in a maze he must try to escape.

VAMPIRE ACADEMY

BY RicHelle meaD

EXPECTED RELEASE DATE: February 14 NOTEWORTHY CAST: Sarah Hyland (modern Family), olga Kurylenko (oblivion), zoey Deutch (Beautiful creatures) Rose Hathaway is a “Dhampir,” or half human/ half vampire guardian of the peaceful, the moroi vampires, protecting her best friend.

DIVERGENT BY veRonica RoTH

EXPECTED RELEASE DATE: march 21 NOTEWORTHY CAST: Shailene Woodley (The Descendants), Kate Winslet, ashley Judd, zoe Kravitz (after earth, X-men: First class) in a dystopian chicago separated into five factions, each dedicated to a specific virtue, Beatrice Prior faces a decision that will change her world forever.

THE GIVER BY loiS loWRY

EXPECTED RELEASE DATE: august 15 NOTEWORTHY CAST: Katie Holmes, meryl Streep, Jeff Bridges, Taylor Swift, alexander Skarsgard (True Blood) in a post-apocalyptic “utopian” society, a little boy is chosen to learn from an elderly man about real emotion.

DARK PLACES BY gillian FlYnn

EXPECTED RELEASE DATE: September 1 NOTEWORTHY CAST: charlize Theron, christina Hendricks (mad men), chloë grace moretz (carrie), Years after a brutal killing took her family and left her the lone survivor, libby Day is confronted by a secret society obsessed with solving notorious crimes.

GONE GIRL BY gillian FlYnn

EXPECTED RELEASE DATE: october 3 NOTEWORTHY CAST: Ben affleck, neil Patrick Harris, missi Pyle (The artist, charlie and the chocolate Factory), Tyler Perry, Rosamund Pike (Jack Reacher) The mysterious disappearance of amy Dunne on her wedding anniversary puts her husband high on the list of suspects and leaves everyone on edge.

MOCKINGJAY

(3rd installment of the Hunger games trilogy)

BY SUzanne collinS

EXPECTED RELEASE DATE: november 21 NOTEWORTHY CAST: Jennifer lawrence, Woody Harrelson, liam Hemsworth, Julianne moore and other noteworthy names from the first two movies (and maybe John cusack?)

The adventures of Katniss everdeen heat up in part one of the dramatic conclusion.

THE HOBBIT

BY J.R.R. TolKien

MOVIE TITLE: The Hobbit: There and Back again EXPECTED RELEASE DATE: December 17 NOTEWORTHY CAST: Benedict cumberbatch, orlando Bloom, cate Blanchett, evangeline lilly, martin Freeman, christian lee and others from the casts of The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug and The lord of the Rings The second installment of the three-part adaptation of the classic story of Bilbo Baggins’ epic journey and return home.

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LIFE & STYLE

Home AwAy From Home BY kaThRYn kemp

There’s just something about heading out on the open road and exploring a place you’ve never seen before. While a good ole station wagon makes a plenty suitable carriage, some choose to load up in their very own RV, taking the comforts of home with them as they head out into the unknown.

We’ve pulled together some of the top spots for RV camping, and for comparison priced a flight/hotel for a similar experience. Maybe it’s time for you to look into your very own home away from home.

GrAnd CAnyon nortH rim ArizonA

even if you’ve never visited the 1-mile deep canyon, you most likely see a clear picture of what it is when you hear its name – it is, after all, considered one of the seven natural wonders of the world. With nearly five million visitors each year, the grand canyon is a top destination, especially for Rv campers. The entire national park offers stunning views, but with its higher elevation and less crowded feel, the north Rim offers even more stunning views and a truly unique camping experience.

mt. rusHmore SoutH dAkotA

With nearly three million visitors a year, it’s hard to argue the magnificence of the massive sculpture carved into the face of a mountain featuring the heads of former U.s. presidents george Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and abraham lincoln. But the area itself boasts plenty of extra sightseeing and historical exploring, from historic train rides through the Black hills to the national presidential Wax museum.

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CAmpground: kemp’s kamp – keYsTone, sd (5 minutes from mt. Rushmore) SeASon: YeaR-RoUnd Hook-upS AvAilAble: WaTeR, seWeR, elecTRic, saTelliTe Tv, FRee Wi-Fi AmenitieS: cool name, laUndRY, heaTed sWimming pool, shoWeRs, FRee Wi-Fi gAS: $600 RoUnd-TRip Spot rentAl: $38-$51 peR nighT totAl trAvel expenSeS (for 2 adults; 7 nights): $915

living-magazine.com // JanUaRY-FeBRUaRY 2014

FligHt: $400 RoUnd-TRip FoR one (dFW to Rapid city Regional airport, Rapid city, sd) Hotel: $126 peR nighT, $955 FoR 7-nighT sTaY (holiday inn express hotel & suites, keystone, sd) totAl trAvel expenSeS (for 2 adults; 7 nights): $1,755

CAmpground: noRTh Rim campgRoUnd SeASon: maY 15 – ocToBeR 15 Hook-upS AvAilAble: none AmenitieS: laUndRY, shoWeRs, dUmping, hiking TRails gAS: $640 RoUnd-TRip Spot rentAl: $18-$25 peR nighT (plUs $25/vehicle admission) totAl trAvel expenSeS (for 2 adults; 7 nights): $805 FligHt: $510 RoUnd-TRip FoR one (dFW to sgU: st. george airport, salt lake city, UT) Hotel: $124 peR nighT, $926 FoR 7-nighT sTaY (grand canyon lodgenorth Rim) totAl trAvel expenSeS (for 2 adults; 7 nights): $1,946

disney world FloridA

When you begin planning a trip in the Rv, there’s a good chance disney World is not the first place that comes to mind as a popular camping site.

Think again. disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort offers so much magical fun and activity, you may not even need to actually visit the parks. With pools (and a waterslide!), a beach, horseback riding, and much more, the campsite itself may be the most magical place on earth.

CAmpground: disneY’s FoRT WildeRness ResoRT

GlACier nAtionAl PArk montAnA

if you love to hike, explore and take in beautiful views of nature, glacier national park may excite you. With over 700 miles of trails, there’s plenty to see and do. history buffs will enjoy it too, with its rich native american history and historic homesteading sites. and on the going-to-the-sun Road, history and nature collide on 52 miles of road built in the 1930s that provides beautiful views and glimpses of wildlife.

SeASon: YeaR-RoUnd Hook-upS AvAilAble: WaTeR, elecTRiciTY, caBle Television AmenitieS: pool W/ WaTeRslide, “qUieT pool,” WhiRlpool spa, Beach, aRcheRY, hoRseBack Riding, canoeing, 4 ResTaURanTs, movies UndeR The sTaRs, Fishing, Bike RenTals, BaskeTBall coURTs, WaTeRskiing, kaYak RenTals, laUndRY, childcaRe, highspeed inTeRneT gAS: $600 RoUnd-TRip Spot rentAl: sTaRTing aT $74 peR nighT; avg. $105 in maY totAl trAvel expenSeS (for 2 adults; 7 nights): $1,340 FligHt: $400 RoUnd-TRip FoR one (dFW to orlando international airport) Hotel: $225 peR nighT, $1,372 FoR 7-nighT sTaY (disney’s caribbean Beach Resort) totAl trAvel expenSeS (for 2 adults; 7 nights): $2,172

CAmpground: sT. maRY campgRoUnd, on-siTe SeASon: YeaR-RoUnd Hook-upS AvAilAble: none gAS: $946 RoUnd-TRip Spot rentAl: $23 peR nighT, $161 FoR 7-nighT sTaY totAl trAvel expenSeS (for 2 adults; 7 nights): $1,110 FligHt: $520 RoUnd-TRip FoR one (dFW to glacier park international airport, kalispell, mT) Hotel: sTaRTing aT $155 peR nighT, $1,085 FoR 7-nighT sTaY (many glacier hotel, Babb, mT) totAl trAvel expenSeS (for 2 adults; 7 nights): $2,125

tHe outer BAnks: CApe HAtterAS, nortH CArolinA

off the coast of north carolina, you’ll find the outer Banks, a group of barrier islands with personalities quite their own. You may know the area as the site of the Wright Brothers’ first powered flight, but it has a rich history beyond that and offers much to do. hatteras island, the more remote of the islands, is close to the amenities of the more populated areas, but offers a real getaway feel with plenty of open beach and wilderness to explore.

CAmpground: camp haTTeRas, Waves, nc Hook-upS AvAilAble: elecTRic, WaTeR, seWeR, caBle Tv availaBle AmenitieS: soUndFRonT, laUndRY, ThRee sWimming pools (one indooR), clUBhoUse, indooR hoT TUB, lighTed Tennis coURT, mini golF coURse, oUTdooR games, Fishing, FRee WiFi gAS: $800 RoUnd-TRip Spot rentAl: $68-$73 peR nighT, $490 FoR 7-nighT sTaY totAl trAvel expenSeS (for 2 adults; 7 nights): $1,300 FligHt: $403 RoUnd-TRip FoR one (From dFW to norfolk international airport, norfolk, va) Hotel: $770 FoR The Week (lighthouse view oceanfront lodging, hatteras, nc) totAl trAvel expenSeS (for 2 adults; 7 nights): $1,576

Local

Getaways When you’re looking to take your home away from home out but aren’t looking to spend the extra gas money, it’s nice to have places right here in Texas to visit. tHe vineyArdS CAmpground & CAbinS on grApevine lAke grApevine, tx enjoy the lakefront views and water activities, or head to town for some shopping and wine tasting.

lA HACiendA rv reSort & CottAgeS AuStin, tx Just 30 minutes from downtown austin and 3 miles from lake Travis, la hacienda offers you a getaway close enough to civilization but with the joys of nature – plus a pool/hot tub, 4-hole chip & putt and a dog park.

loyd pArk on Joe pool lAke grAnd prAirie, tx With plenty of trees and a beautiful stretch of lake (and plenty of water activities), it would be easy to forget you’re just a hop, skip and a jump away from dallas.

AlAmo river rv reSort SAn Antonio, tx located on the medina River not far from downtown san antonio, the alamo River Rv Resort gives campers plenty of opportunities for fun.

CedAr Hill StAte pArk CedAr Hill, tx in our own backyard is cedar hill state park, offering fishing, boating and swimming on Joe pool lake, biking, and of course, camping.

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LIFE & STYLE

{ GUY TALK }

The makings of a home

BY JUdd mccUTchen

What comes to mind when you think of the home of the Year? i bet most people envision a 4,000-square-foot house with tall trees, green grass, nice landscaping and two luxury cars in the driveway. and on the inside it’s even better…unique furnishings, expensive rugs, and top-of-theline dishes. The backyard has a pool, of course, and the family dog has plenty of room to run and play fetch. do you see it? now picture a 1,300-square-foot home. That’s a decent size house, but not what comes to mind when you think home of the Year. This home has no sprinkler system, and

the grass has weeds and stickers in it. its trees are very small and were planted young by the homeowner. it doesn’t have a pool, but it does have a basketball goal in the driveway for outdoor playtime. The interior décor is nice and clean, but it’s not from macy’s. and in the driveway are an oldsmobile delta 88 and a pre-owned 70s-model volkswagen bug. do you see it?

The latter of these two houses is a description of my childhood home, and if i had a vote for the home of the Year, it would get my vote every time. You see to me, there is a difference in home of the Year and house of the Year. and i had a home. The stickers in the yard became a project and over time dad worked hard to plant sod and create flowerbeds. mom kept the interior spotless. never was anything messy or out of place, and we took care of our things. The basketball goal in the driveway was my swimming pool. every day after school i would shoot hoops, and the highlight of my day was when i heard my dad’s volkswagen two blocks away coming home from work. after a quick hug he would always

put both hands up and say, “give me a shot.” There was structure, discipline, love and most of all cohesiveness. it was ours, and it was enough.

Fast forward 30 years…my parents still reside in the same house. long gone are the stickers and weeds, nothing but plush st. augustine and beautiful flowerbeds surround the house. The trees have matured to heights up to 50 feet tall, and the basketball goal is no more. The interior took on a new look of its own as well, having had a number of renovations and upgrades. and all the furnishings are top-ofthe-line. my siblings and i all have places of our own now, but deep down this will always be home. no matter how old we get.

Webster’s dictionary uses words like building, structure, shelter or refuge to describe a house. But for a home it uses words like family, social unit or place of origin.

You see the difference? all the money in the world could buy you a nice house…but it’s the relationships within that house that create a happy home. no matter how big or small it may be.

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LIFE & STYLE

a moTheR’s Tale BY lindsaY maRkeRT

oRGaniZinG tHe

Chaos With the new year typically comes a renewed sense of optimism…to take better care of myself, to finally complete various projects and to become (and then stay) organized from top to bottom.

Four children ages 6 and under are the proverbial thorn in my organizational aspirations side. By nature i am an organized, Type a personality. however, since becoming a mother, some of those behaviors have fallen to the wayside in favor of daily survival. i do not claim to be perfect and any time spent in my home would prove that i am far from it, but i have taken my natural tendency and desire to be organized and tried to marry it with my daily reality of herding turtles. in doing so, i have given myself loose rules that apply to my routine during my children’s waking hours. once they are down for the night, i do a quick sweep of all super heroes, legos, books, multiple singing and flashing toys, and other random pieces of our day that have found a home outside the norm. Then i crash and become a zombie (mombie?) until it’s time to do it all over again.

HeRe aRe MY LooSe RULeS:

touch every room every day.

This means that i check on the status of the crazy in each room daily…for me, this keeps me from feeling overwhelmed. i can typically handle one totally wrecked room at a time without feeling a little panicky. so, by setting foot in each room (which in our home isn’t many - we’ve opted to stay in a

home we have outgrown for the time being for a few reasons, the main one being there are fewer places for the littles to hide from us and destroy things), i can keep a decent level of control and not have to tackle the whole house at once. When i see that a room is needing attention, i add it to my list of things to do during nap or when everyone is down for the night.

Whether it’s wiping down bathroom counters or folding some clothes the babies threw out of their drawers, those few minutes of extra attention can help me keep a handle on the house as a whole.

don’t put things off. so many times during my day i see something that needs to be picked up or dealt with in some way, and so many times i walk past said thing and then double back. Because i know that, for me, putting things off once means putting things off twice or more. so unless i am rushing out the door or i have a crying child to tend to, i try to take the few seconds and replace the item to its home. This ‘rule’ also applies to general household chores. if i find myself with some extra time (ha!) then i try to accomplish a few things quickly (even when i just want to sit…which is often) because it’s so nice to know those things are done. i’ve learned that i would rather have one long break at the end of the day versus lots of little ones after which i have to keep going.

up, hair products, discarded clothes, etc., around as i am getting ready. i hate coming home to that mess, yet i did it for years! The difference in recent years is that i also have other people’s messes to contend with, so i am trying to reign in my own messes so i have less work at the end of the day. Replacing items one by one as they are used is way easier than taking on the huge wreck later! as much as i try to stay on top of things, i do have those projects that stay untouched. my picture organization is a mess and my desk is a perpetual wreck.

These things bother me, but there are just not enough hours in the day to tackle everything, every day. There is that old saying that good moms have sticky floors, dirty ovens and happy kids…which alludes to choosing your kids over cleaning. i do agree with the “babies don’t keep” mentality to an extent (hence the wreck of a desk and many other projects i have not conquered!), but i believe it mixes best with a reasonable approach to keeping things in order. chaos breeds crazy - at my house anyway! every person and every home is different, so do whatever works for you to obtain survival and sanity with a side of organization in the new year!

replace things immediately.

This rule i’ve implemented 1,000 percent because of my old habits of leaving make-

Lindsay, a Waxahachie native, is a mother of four and writes her articles during morning nap time. Visit her blog at themommarazziblog.blogspot.com/ to read more about her family.

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HOME & GARDEN

{ home oF The YeaR 2014 }

GettinG Back to

Nature

BY diane Johnson collaRd phoTos BY BRenT hUghes phoTogRaphY

The 2014 home of the year, constructed by Canyon Creek Homes, is an outstanding example of style, quality and excellent design. Builder and co-owner of Canyon Creek Homes Justin Crocker and his wife, Christine, graciously opened up their newly constructed home to Living Magazine for viewing.

Years of drawing and dreaming went into the designing of this perfect “Texas hill country/mountain lodge merge� that captures all of the features the couple desired in a home. With the assistance of the adamson architectural firm in midlothian, all of the details came together to create a 4,300-squarefoot dream home. after a long search, Justin and christine finally found a perfect piece of land to build their dream

home. Thick trees and brush totally hid the amazing lake at the back of the acreage, but Justin was determined to clear that perfect spot for a building pad. after a year of clearing, brush hogging, digging and dealing with the governmental flood control issues, the land was ready for construction. driving onto the property from the main road is rather uneventful and ordinary. after a long dusty drive, you find yourself at the top of a hill

overlooking a glorious wooded park-like area surrounded by a gorgeous lake. You feel as though you went through a wormhole and ended up in the hill country.

There in the mist of the trees, sitting in a valley just over the first hill, is a lovely stone and brick rustic home surrounded by fresh, crisp landscaping and dozens of massive boulders.

Raw timbers and a metal roof capture that quaint, simplistic natural ambiance of a mountain lodge.

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HOME & GARDEN

From the front foyer, with its warm natural hues and variety of textures, this home speaks, “welcome home,” to all those entering. it is hard to tell where the outside ends and the inside begins. From the winding raw wood and iron staircase that hugs a rounded brick wall, to the oklahoma stone arches and open beamed ceilings, this home is nature at its best.

The design of this unique home is such that all rooms on the backside are angled to perfectly face the lake.

Three-story windows in the living room make you feel that you can

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reach out and touch the water that spans the backside of the property. knotted, hand-scraped hickory floors laid in three-plank widths, left in their natural color and finished only with a clear coat sealer to enhance the grain, span throughout the main floor. irregular (second grade) wood was used on the floors, woodwork and wall applications so that the heavy knots and imperfections would add texture and interest in all areas of the home.

The color on every wall in the house is a basic beige, but a variety of

stone, brick, antique planks, aged bead board and massive beams add all of the interest needed to pull mother nature’s perfect color pallet into a work of art.

Between the entry and living room, a splash of color is incorporated into wall insets with naturally-aged, teal-colored three-inch tongue and groove planks highlighted with antique tin ceiling tiles left in their natural state. indian blanket pillows with soft muddy teal and crisp coral red hues give a pop of color to the leather upholstery in the living room. a cowhide rug and a pair of leather

and cowhide chairs add whimsical western twists of color and texture. an open brick wall with massive brick columns separates the living room from the kitchen. This brick is repurposed and is made up of a mix of several styles that mesh together like a puzzle. more stone and an arched opening of the repurposed brick surrounds the oversized commercial stove.

The custom-made cabinets are made of knotty alder stained in a soft warm brown that is used throughout the house. The enormous island fills the center of the room and offers additional seating and dining space.

The dining area sits at an angle and overlooks the backyard landscaping and a perfect lake view. Tall ceilings with heavily scraped rough beams accent the soft beige walls while the rugged lumber trim frames out the tall windows for a perfect balance of color and texture.

To the left of the living room is a full-size carriage door constructed from repurposed natural planks with a shotgun door handle that leads directly into the family room. This room also sits at an angle providing that incredible outdoor view of the surrounding lake.

The family room features an enormous stone fireplace with a variety of three different dye lots of oklahoma stone, which creates the perfect blend of deep

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HOME & GARDEN

rich colors and soft warm tones. colorado river rock is used to surround the arched opening of the firebox.

This entire family room is intended to look like the outside of the house.

The design is spot on. as you sit on the sofa facing the windows, it is hard to tell if you are inside or outside. The walls and ceilings are constructed of 6-inch knotted white pine left in its natural color with only a clear sealer to enhance the grain. all of the wood trim is stained in a warm brown hue, which provides a soft contrast to the natural walls. a

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clever accent to further create that exterior feel includes the addition of stone columns between the windows. outdoor wall sconces are applied to the columns for that perfect finishing touch. although there are five bedrooms in this incredible home, the master bedroom is the most creative and worthy of conversation. again, the floors are hand-scraped natural planks and the wood trim is stained in the same warm brown, but the addition of repurposed wood on the bed wall and soft rich colors in the bedding and upholstered chairs

create a romantic hideaway for the young parents of caleb, 3, and adilynn, 1.

The master bath embraces knotty alder cabinetry and a tub that sits against an oklahoma stone wall backdrop. The shower is tiled with a ceramic faux plank wood tile that continues the look of nature captured throughout the entire home.

With Justin’s expertise in construction and christine’s interior design background, the couple had all of the resources they needed to build a quality showplace. local

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HOME & GARDEN

brent HugHeS

ellis county craftsmen were used from the clearing of the land to the completion of the landscaping. Justin is quick to say that constructing this home took an army of talented people who did their jobs with great skill and pride. in addition to building custom homes with partner paul corp, Justin owns earthtones greenery, a business he started at the age of 18. The evidence is clear that he has answered his

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calling in every inch of this new home. he and christine have captured the incredible beauty of mother nature’s glory from the road to the lake and every inch in between.

Thank you for allowing us to tour your home. it is with great pleasure and pride that we now share your dream with all your neighbors as the 2014 living magazine home of the Year.

Well done, Justin, well done.

iS a LiFeStYLe, WeDDinG anD aDVeRtiSinG PHotoGRaPHeR BaSeD in WaXaHacHie. He coMBineS cUttinG-eDGe LiGHtinG tecHniQUeS, tecHnoLoGY anD a UniQUeLY cReatiVe eYe to PRoDUce StUnninG iMaGeS FoR HiS cLientS. BRent’S WoRk takeS HiM aLL oVeR tHe coUntRY, anD DeManD FoR HiS eXPeRtiSe continUeS to GRoW. FoR MoRe inFoRMation aBoUt BRent anD HiS WoRk, ViSit BRentHUGHeSPHotoGRaPHY.coM.

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10 YEAR

CONT RIBUTING

Writers

Over the years, Living Magazine has published articles written by numerous contributing writers, and we’ve appreciated the hard work put into creating great content for our readers. Some write for just one or two issues, others stick around for more, but three ladies come to mind when we think of who’s been around since the beginning.

No doubt you’ve read what they’ve had to say at some point, but here’s a more personal look at three of our longest-standing writers. Thanks for all your hard work and for helping to shape what the magazine has become!

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DIANE JOHNSON COLLARD

ALL ABOUT DIANE

My family and I moved to Texas in 1983. I have three daughters who all graduated from Waxahachie High School and still remain in Ellis County with their families.

My daughters have given me seven wonderful grandchildren who provide me with more joy than I can express.

In 2003 I married Les Collard, a lifetime Ellis County resident from Ennis. Moving him to Waxahachie was like sending him to China, but he has adjusted and finally realizes that I am going to continue to cheer for the Indians.

Les has two children and six grandchildren, so together we have five children and thirteen grandchildren. Yes, Christmas and birthdays are a challenge.

Great fun and lots of work, but a real challenge. Keeping all things equal can drive a Nana to distraction.

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014

Diane has been writing about interior decorating for the magazine since the beginning. Starting at the age of 18, she has accrued many years of interior design and construction experience, and she continues to decorate homes in Ellis County today. When she’s not working, she stays very busy with her family and grandchildren, attending sporting events, driving carpool, helping with homework, baking delicious treats and hosting family dinner every Sunday, a tradition passed down to her by her mother and grandmother.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ARTICLE YOU’VE WRITTEN? I have written several articles that I am fond of, but I think my favorite is the most recent wedding issue where I shared a more personal story about my daughter’s wedding. Maybe because it involved my grandchildren that is always special.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT WRITING FOR THE MAGAZINE? I have always loved to write, but only for my own pleasure. Living has given me the opportunity to do something that I really enjoy

and have always wanted to do more of, but have not had the time or reason to do so. It is a true joy and privilege to be a part of such a wonderful endeavor.

IF YOU KNEW IT WAS GOING TO BE YOUR LAST MEAL, WHAT WOULD YOU EAT? Ice cream IF YOU WERE AN ICE CREAM, WHAT WOULD YOU BE CALLED AND WHAT WOULD YOU CONSIST OF? I would consist of ooey gooey caramel, French vanilla ice cream and lots of nuts. It would be called Caramel Delight.

ANYTHING ELSE WE SHOULD KNOW? I love to cook. I don’t get to do it as much as I used to, but I find it very relaxing.

Especially baking. My grandchildren insist that I need to open a pancake restaurant where we could all work together. That would definitely be interesting. Wonder who would do most of the work?

KATHERINE DONALDSON

Dr. Donaldson has written for Living since the beginning, helping ease the minds of Ellis County readers with articles on various topics related to mental health. She is a clinical psychologist offering individual, family and couples therapy, as well as testing including neuropsych, personality, academic, ADHD, parenting evals, and so on. Her clinic is also a site for training psychology post doc fellows, interns and practicum students, which she finds very rewarding.

ALL ABOUT DR. DONALDSON

I was born in Maryville, Missouri, and grew up in Florida, Minnesota, and mostly Illinois, where I attended Junior High and High School. Before returning to college, I learned a lot about running a business while working for my father, K.C. Browne, who owned greenhouses in Waxahachie and Puerto Rico, as well as a brokerage house. I attended college at UTA and earned my Master’s and Doctoral degrees in clinical psychology at Baylor University, and trained at the Dallas VA and Waco VA hospitals.

HOW DO YOU CHOOSE YOUR TOPICS? I write about any topics related to psychology, which covers any aspect of human behavior.

Writing for Living gives me the opportunity to help others gain insight into their behaviors and overcome obstacles.

CINDY BURCH

DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE ARTICLE OR ISSUE? My favorite issues are the wedding issues.

They are always pretty and fill me with feelings of hope and happiness as I think about the couples who are starting their lives together.

IF YOU KNEW IT WAS GOING TO BE YOUR LAST MEAL, WHAT WOULD YOU EAT? If I knew I was having my last meal, it would be hot and sour soup, spicy Thai rice with vegetables, and a piece of German chocolate cake with raspberries and a scoop of ice cream. Yum! IF YOU WERE AN ICE CREAM, WHAT WOULD YOU BE CALLED AND WHAT WOULD YOU CONSIST OF? If I were an ice cream I would be Rocky Road because I love hiking and I believe when the going gets rocky, when we face obstacles and overcome them, success is that much sweeter.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO IN YOUR SPARE TIME? My husband and I like to travel. Some of our favorite trips have been to Russia, Denmark, Alaska and Belize. One of my life goals is to hike in each state on the Appalachian Trail, which runs from Georgia to Maine. So far I have hiked in Pennsylvania and North Carolina, and I plan to hike all of the remaining states eventually. I have also hiked in Alaska and Hawaii.

Written with Love

ALL ABOUT CINDY

I was born a Dallas city kid. I graduated from Baylor, then went into the fashion business as a boutique owner, buyer for a clothing store on Lovers Lane, and finally designer sportswear manager for Neiman Marcus. I married my husband, Andrew, in 1992 and started helping my mom build her business on the town square in Waxahachie.

My husband and I ultimately took over and expanded into the restaurant business.

2014 will be our 20th anniversary with The Doves Nest.

I am an only child who never had children, but I spend a lot of my extra time traveling with my husband’s side of the family. We scuba dive, sail, and enjoy seeing the world.

Cindy has been writing for Living Magazine since 2005 and covers various topics, from travelling the world to running a restaurant, and so much more.

She and her husband, Andrew, own The Doves Nest, a gift store and restaurant in downtown Waxahachie. When she’s not manning the restaurant, writing articles or catering an event, Cindy loves to roam the world exploring new and exciting places, and Living staff and readers alike look forward to reading all about her adventures in her articles.

DO YOU HAVE ANY FAVORITE ARTICLES YOU’VE WRITTEN? A Mother’s Journey was my favorite article.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT WRITING FOR THE MAGAZINE? I love the wonderful feedback I get from the readers.

DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE ISSUE/ COVER? I love the one with our fireplace on the cover.

DO YOU HAVE A HARD TIME KEEPING UP WITH ALL OF THE DEADLINES? Every single issue.

IF YOU KNEW IT WAS GOING TO BE YOUR LAST MEAL, WHAT WOULD YOU EAT? Ice cold blue cheese salad and a rare steak.

ANYTHING ELSE WE SHOULD KNOW? You already know more about me through my articles than I ever thought I would share.

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014

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Local Shopping

HOME & GARDEN

maRkeTplace BLOOMS & MORE This valentine’s day, find the perfect arrangement to show that special someone how much you care.

301 n. elm st.

Waxahachie 972.937.3111 www.bloomsandmore.net

JINA ARMSTRONG PHOTOGRAPHY & PHOTO BOOTH

L & J MANUFACTURING

Restyle, renew and repair outdated pieces into fresh, new styles. come in and create your own ring with your valentine’s style in mind! men’s & Women’s jewelry store.

130 n. hwy. 77, suite d Waxahachie 972.938.0504

make your home even more special with a photograph of your family! call Jina to set up an appointment today!

972.935.2357 jinaarmstrongphotography.com armstrongjina@sbcglobal.net

PLAIN JANE & CO OLD TOWN VILLAGE ANTIQUES & UNIQUES

old, new and artistically created, you will find something beautiful in every aisle at old Town village. come search for antiques, collectibles, shabby chic decor, vintage finds, books, jewelry, repurposed treasures and much more!

307 s. Rogers st.

Waxahachie 972.938.9515 oldTownvillageantiques.com

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living-magazine.com // JanUaRY-FeBRUaRY 2014

Whether you're getting ready for date night or just out and about, show your flirty side with cute tops, leggings, dresses, accessories and much more from plain Jane.

301 s. Rogers st.

Waxahachie 972.923.4433

MOSAIC MADNESS

THE STUDIO

create your own special handmade mosaic item to adorn your home. crosses, frames, vases…the possibilities are endless with mosaics! custom work is also available.

211 s. college st.

Waxahachie 972.937.5797

music of the spheres Windchimes, “The Windchime for all seasons.” handcrafted in austin, these chimes are perfect for any backyard or front porch.

3671 n. hwy. 77 Waxahachie 972.617.7740

www.mosaicmadness.net info@mosaicmadness.net

DALLAS TORTILLA & TAMALE FACTORY

Feliz año nuevo from the leal family! celebrate the new year with warm handmade tamales from dallas Tortillas inc., bringing you authentic mexican food since 1950.

119 sh 342 suite 405 Red oak 972.576.1171

MAXWELL JEWELERS

make her valentine’s day sparkle with beautiful jewelry!

311 s. Rogers st.

Waxahachie 972.937.4381

BRIARPATCH BOUTIQUE

Win your valentine's heart and show her how loved she is with beautiful jewelry from Brighton.

404 W. main st. • Waxahachie 972.937.7717

ARK COUNTRY STORE

Western home decor including dishes, canisters, pillows, wall art and more for your home.

209 s. hwy. 77 Waxahachie 972.937.8860 www.arkcountrystore.com

living-magazine.com // JanUaRY-FeBRUaRY 2014

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HOME & GARDEN { DIY }

CreAtiVe And ineXPensiVe

kitCHen redo BY kRisTen hoBBs

after going through a kitchen transformation myself and seeing my neighbor complete her DiY backsplash, i’ve got backsplashes on my mind.

So often it’s difficult to come up with an affordable backsplash option that you can DiY with materials from your local hardware store, so i decided to hunt down some creative (i.e. not tiled) and inexpensive backsplash ideas.

Here are my top five favorite “thinking outside of the box” backsplash ideas:

Acrylic Backsplash

i saw a picture of a fun orange backsplash in a home tour on apartment Therapy (apartmenttherapy.com) and did some research to see where you can buy sheets of colored acrylic. Both lowe’s and home depot sell colored acrylic, which can easily be cut to fit the size of your backsplash. simply drill holes in the corners of the acrylic and attach it to walls with screws. Just wipe it down with water when splatter happens!

Temporary Wallpaper Backsplash

These self-adhesive wall tile decals from Blik (whatisblik.com) are quick to install and can be repositioned as needed. This is a great option for renters, as you simply peel them off when you move. even better, two 24” x 48” sheets are only $45. cut to fit and you could easily do your entire kitchen for less than $100. imagine how great a wallpaper backsplash can look.

They even make some papers that look like tile...

Chalkboard Backsplash

my very favorite (because this is what my neighbor did): chalkboard backsplash. We see chalkboard paint used everywhere these days on furniture, on doors, on walls - but i had never thought of using it for a kitchen backsplash. it looks great and definitely doesn’t break the bank, plus you can draw on it to change things up a bit.

Because it’s just paint, you can even do this in a rental space where you’re allowed to paint.

They make magnetic chalkboard paint now, too, so that’s another great option if you want to hang pictures or notes on it. my neighbor took it to the next level of coolness and used adhesive to glue long ceramic tiles around the edge of her chalkboard to frame the backsplash area - love it!

Metal Backsplash For a great industrial look, ever consider a corrugated metal backsplash? sounds strange but it looks really cool. You can position it horizontally or vertically, depending on how you want the lines to run, and attach it to the walls with metal screws.

a more traditional-looking metal option is a tin ceiling tile backsplash.

There is a huge variety of colors when it comes to tin ceiling tiles - copper, stainless steel, silver, gold, you name it...and the pattern options are endless.

The american Tin ceiling co. website will get your creative juices flowing.

> What do you think? do you have any other

good ideas for a cheap but great-looking kitchen backsplash?

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in her blog, inspiredwhims.com, kristen hobbs pulls together decorating tips, gift ideas, diY projects and so much more to brighten your life. Use her tips for updating your current kitchen, or finishing a new one. living-magazine.com // JanUaRY-FeBRUaRY 2014

living-magazine.com // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014

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HOME & GARDEN

{ gaRdening }

JAnuAry 2014 BY melinda kocian, ellis coUnTY masTeR gaRdeneRs

plAnting » Transplant small trees and shrubs while they are dormant. it is best to root prune in the fall so roots will be established before the heat and drought of summer. Water the root ball well before digging. » plant onions from seeds in rows 1/4 to 1/2 an inch deep, or plant in flats along with tomatoes and peppers. plants in flats need bright light and warm temperatures (60 to 70 degrees F). grow lights produce best results.

Fertilizing And pruning » keep a spray can of pruning paint in the garage to immediately paint any wounds on oak trees. Texas weather is unpredictable and changeable, so paint every wound all year long. » prune all trees to remove dead, broken and unwanted branches, or to “limb up” (raise the canopy to allow more light underneath). » Water as needed newly planted trees and shrubs and apply a liquid root

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stimulator monthly. » peach and plum trees should be pruned to stimulate lateral branches and keep the “bowl” shape.

Thin the trees to open the center and allow more sunlight, resulting in fruit production over the entire tree. » apply a balanced fertilizer to iris and asparagus. Feed pansies with blood meal. » This is a good time to have your soil tested. contact the ellis county master gardeners or the Texas agrilife extension service - ellis county at 972-825-5175 for the necessary collection and mailing supplies or for more information.

gArden WAtCH » Remove by hand broadleaf weeds such as clover, dandelions, henbit and chickweed in lawns and beds. if necessary, spot spray turf with a broadleaf weed killer when temperatures are above 70 degrees. Be careful when using weed killers in flowerbeds to prevent drift from harming desirable plants.

living-magazine.com // JanUaRY-FeBRUaRY 2014

Lantana

» lantana horrida is a Texas native perennial that produces orange and yellow flowers. lantanas have aromatic foliage, are extremely heat and drought tolerant and bloom from may to november. all other lantana are considered tropical perennials and are used as annuals in Texas. new gold (a Texas superstar) doesn’t produce seed and uses all energy to produce a profusion of blooms. purple trailing (lantana montevidensis) is also a Texas superstar with peak bloom times in the spring and fall. caution: This plant is poisonous to humans, dogs and livestock. it can cause serious illness or death. tipS & FACtS: lantana originates from tropical america.

Trailing lantana is useful in hanging baskets, containers or spilling over retaining walls, or as a ground cover in dry sunny locations. Texas lantana can grow to 6 feet tall in an ideal location. The plant was naturalized from mississippi.

{ ReSiDentiaL SeRVice PRoViDeRS }

living-magazine.com // JanUaRY-FeBRUaRY 2014

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HOME & GARDEN

{ gaRdening conT. }

FebruAry 2014 plAnting

» plant cool-season vegetable seeds such as lettuce, radishes, carrots, spinach and beets mid-February directly into well-prepared soil. cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, kale and potatoes should be planted 2 to 4 weeks before the last average frost date, march 15 in ellis county. » container and bare-root roses can be planted this month. When planting from a container, use two-gallon or larger. Texas a&m earthkind varieties are easy to maintain and will need less water, fertilizer and pesticides. prepare the planting beds by adding a 3-inch layer of organic matter and 3-inch layer of expanded shale and till into the top 6 to 10 inches of existing soil. » plant blackberries, grapes, fruit and nut trees. after planting, cut off the top half of peach trees and all side branches to encourage new lateral branches. contact Texas agrilife extension service - ellis county for the best varieties.

Fertilizing And pruning

» prune bush roses on valentine’s day, February 14. prune back to the ground old, dead and weak canes. leave four to eight

vigorous canes, removing half of their growth above an outward-facing bud. Feed roses with a balanced fertilizer, compost or aged manure. » Wait to prune climbing or leaning roses until they bloom. » dead tops of ornamental grasses can be pruned 4 to 6 inches from the ground. dig and divide large clumps of warm-season varieties, especially if the center of the grass has died. » cut back the tops of herbaceous perennials to the ground or to basal foliage. if they are hardy, new growth will emerge from the roots in the spring.

gArden WAtCH

» Begin controlling insects and diseases on fruit and nut trees. spraying is essential for a successful harvest. contact an ellis county master gardener or the Texas agrilife extension service - ellis county for a copy of the “homeowners Fruit and nut spray schedule”. » control aphids with insecticidal soap and caterpillars with Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) on coolseason vegetables.

Redbud

» The redbud tree is a small deciduous tree that reaches 15-20 feet at maturity. The redbud brings one of the first signs of spring with magenta pink flowers blooming for 2-3 weeks in march or early april. heart-shaped green leaves replace the blooms until fall turns the leaves bright yellow. Redbuds grow in full sun or nestled under larger trees without much regard for soil or moisture, making them one of the easiest trees to grow. » Texas is home to three native redbuds: eastern redbud (cersis canadensis var canadensis), Texas redbud (c. canadensis var. texensis) and mexican redbud (c. canadensis var. mexicana). of all the varieties, mexican redbud is the most drought-tolerant, is compact and is distinguished with leaves that have ruffled edges. The variety ‘oklahoma’ has darker blooms and ‘Texas White’ is a white blooming variety. tipS & FACtS: Blooms of the Redbud cover the limbs and sometimes trunk of the tree in early spring.

Fruit is a thin bean with several dark, hard seeds inside. mexican Redbud is shorter with smaller leaves and is more drought-tolerant than the Texas Redbud.

The city of denton, Texas, celebrates arbor day annually with the annual Redbud Festival, dating back to the 1930s.

The neW CAlendArS aRe Here!

The Ellis County Master Gardeners are proud to introduce their 8th annual Master Gardeners’ Gardening Calendar. The goal this year is to introduce you to gardening with native and adapted plants for Ellis County.

Featured articles are: “An Introduction to Native and Adapted Plants,” “Vegetable Planting Schedules for Spring and Fall,” “Drip Irrigation: Precise Application of Water,” “Use-

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ful Websites” and “Native and Adapted Perennials In Ellis County.” As always, the calendar includes month-by-month gardening information, soil preparation and fertilizing timelines. Also included are events happening in Ellis County, moon signs as well as eclipse dates.

living-magazine.com // JanUaRY-FeBRUaRY 2014

Pick up your free copy at one of the sponsors listed below, and please thank them for sponsoring this year’s gardening calendar; without their sponsorship, there would not be a calendar. We would also like to thank your overwhelming interest in receiving our beautiful, informative gardening calendar!

living-magazine.com // JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014

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COUNTY NEWS phOTO BY SCOTT DOrSETT

phOTO BY BrENT hUghES

a Flourishing

counTy

WAXAHACHIE Mayor: John Wray

over the past several years, Waxahachie has continued to enjoy a healthy growth rate of about 3 percent annually. even through times of economic uncertainly, Waxahachie has continued to flourish. We know we will grow larger, so it is imperative that we make sure it is for the better.

The first very visible sign of constructive progress is the new, multi-level Baylor Hospital being built at the northeast corner of Hwy. 287 and i-35 e. more than 80,000 cars pass that intersection every day and the beautiful new medical facility makes quite a positive statement.

The lake-moreno group has purchased several buildings in downtown Waxahachie, kicking off a major renova-

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The cities of Ellis County have been growing and flourishing in recent years, making way for new opportunities, more businesses and restaurants, developing areas, both residential and commercial, and an overall increase in diverse activities and ideas. In 2013, we saw this trend continue, and city mayors and managers foresee the same for 2014. Here, they recap what’s been happening, and give an idea of how the county will continue to flourish.

tion project that will breathe new life into our central Business District. Within 18 months, the public will see new restaurants, entertainment venues, retail & office space, and loft living.

in Waxahachie, the emergence of UT Tyler programs and the multi-million dollar Hagee World communications center at SagU indicate the community’s commitment to higher education.

many road improvements are planned or in production, including Hwy. 77, and several streets in our historic neighborhoods. Sewer lines and infrastructure are being upgraded throughout the city, and the local police and fire departments have upgraded equipment and facilities.

Waxahachie’s city council, city administrators and community leaders recognize the importance of targeting growth so that actions today pave the future. it is an absolute that significant growth is coming. However, it is being proven that a strong strategy and vision is channeling that growth into a bright future for citizens and commerce in Waxahachie.

Waxahachie education centers are adding facilities, curriculum and opportunities to meet the demands of parents, students and new business. This can be seen from the revamping of elementary schools to the success of high school programs reflected by a growing number of national merit Scholars in recent years.

The expansion of the navarro campus

NEW multi-level Baylor hospital

MIDLOTHIAN Mayor: Bill housTon

These are exciting times for the city of midlothian! For the past several years, the number of families that call midlothian home has grown steadily, adding about 600 new residents yearly. The city’s official population has grown to just over 20,000 - a threshold that many national companies look for when siting new stores and restaurants. midlothian is now ellis county’s 2nd largest city, having recently passed ennis in population.

What brings new residents and businesses to midlothian? The highly-rated miSD school district, a wonderful hometown feel, a dynamic housing market and a strategic location, to start. many residents are attracted to “bright future” investments like the midlothian Higher education center, which offers classes and degrees from such institutions as navarro college, Texas a&m-commerce, Tarleton State University and UnT Dallas. in addition to a healthy housing market, midlothian also has a thriving business

sector. Retail sales have grown by an average of 10-12 percent annually over the past three years. new companies have chosen midlothian, like the SWFa corporate headquarters, as well as new restaurants and medical offices.

The city council and staff are very aware that growth is good only if it is well planned, and services are expanded to meet the needs of a larger population.

Toward that goal, the city’s current budget includes important community investments, including three new police officers (in addition to four new officers added last year), the city’s first-ever aerial fire engine (ladder truck) funded by the midlothian Development authority, and about $1.5 million in road rehabilitation. not all of the city’s accomplishments have been of the nuts-and-bolts variety. midlothian values the importance of informed citizens who are engaged in the governing process. To that end, the city has enthusiastically embraced social media for “e-government.” midlothian now has seven Facebook pages, with a total of 9,575 ‘likes,’ and has 988 Twitter fol-

lowers. (visit www.midlothian.tx.us for more information.) over the years, midlothian’s leadership has strived to plan for the future, strategically guiding the city’s growth from 7,650 residents in the year to 2000 to over 20,000 now. and the community will continue to grow, to a projected 45,800 residents in 2030, and an estimated 65,000 at build-out.

To ensure that this future growth reflects the values and goals of its citizens, the city will undertake a strategic planning process in the coming year, and will conduct workshops that will help update and define the vision for midlothian’s future. all midlothian residents are invited to participate!

with an improved financial condition, the city of ennis is thriving. in 2013, sales tax for the city of ennis has increased 11 percent over the prior year, and the city is fortunate to see four all-time record-breaking months of sales tax revenues. This uptick in the economy has many residents and city officials encouraged about the future financial health of the city.

ENNIS

Mayor: russell ThoMas ennis is a bright star in ellis county and is poised to become one of the fastest-growing cities in the area! ennis has strong leadership in its city, the ennis chamber of commerce, and in its ennis iSD. The community is close knit and comes together in time of need as was evident in recent months.

From surviving a tornado that struck on may 16, 2013, to surviving the economic downturn

the southern corridor is predicted due to the convenience of ennis’ location off of interstate 45 and the new interest in ennis, which offers a quality of life comparable to any north Texas city.

Tourism is a vital part of the economy each year as thousands participate in events at the Texas motorplex, stay at local hotels, attend a myriad of festivals and events, and enjoy activities at lake Bardwell. The annual ennis Bluebonnet Trails, a month-long event in april, and the national Polka Festival, held each memorial Day weekend, both experienced the best attendance in past years. increased tourism expenditures equal more sales tax dollars that add a vital boost to the local economy.

currently, the city is being very aggressive in its historic downtown revitalization efforts. great things are in store for downtown ennis as investors are seeing the potential of buying property in the beautiful historic district. The city of ennis, the ennis chamber of commerce and local residents are working closely together to achieve a common goal of seeing ennis flourish in its business recruitment and retention. Sysco, who purchased 255 acres, plans to build its largest food distribution center in ennis. Furthermore, the ennis iSD is also working diligently to achieve continued success in its school district.

The current population of ennis is 18,800, and it is estimated that the population will increase by 300 to 500 residents per year in the next several years. expected growth in

ennis welcomes you with warm hospitality! For more information about ennis, visit www.ennistexas.com, www.ennis-chamber.com and www. visitennis.org! expect more from ennis! living-magazine.com // JanUaRY-FeBRUaRY 2014

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COUNTY NEWS

d Aring greAtly A County updAte

/

By CArol Bush

Have you ever gone out on a limb or implemented a new idea? of course you have.

Was it uncomfortable? most probably. Was it worth it? ... last year, i attended a conference where i listened to a host of incredibly talented people sharing their roads to success. one of the speakers who really impressed me was Dr. Bene Brown, a professor at the University of Houston and the author of “Daring greatly.”

Dr. Brown’s book was inspired by a speech Theodore Roosevelt delivered at the Sorbonne in Paris in 1910. many of you will recognize his words: “it’s not the critic who counts, not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, who strives valiantly… who spends himself in a worthy cause, who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly.” leadership can be a daunting thing. it is uncomfortable to propose an idea that challenges what has “always” been done. it is unnerving doing the right thing when the political fallout can be negative, critical and judgmental. Despite the occasional discomfort, i’m proud to be part of a commissioners’ court that has striven to explore new ideas to achieve some very positive things for this community. as county judge, i have always believed that the only agenda acceptable is that of promoting the best interests of the county as a whole. effective leadership decisions are not always comfortable or popular, but when principles are valued more than politics and public interests trump personal agendas, our entire

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living-magazine.com // JanUaRY-FeBRUaRY 2014

/

ellis County Judge

community benefits. ellis county has made great strides during the last four years, despite a recession compounding the pains of tremendous growth. and we’ve done so with the distinction of having one of the lowest tax rates for a county our size.

STRENGTHENED PUBLIC SAFETY our tax dollars have been stretched to support law enforcement and improve the safety of our community. The county has updated its fleet of law enforcement vehicles to assist the sheriff and his deputies, who have done a noteworthy job of reducing crime. a fire marshal was appointed and a fire code adopted that gives the county the authority to inspect hazardous material sites. emergency management plans and operations have been improved and our first responder communication system has been upgraded to better ensure public safety in the event of an emergency.

PROVIDING ACCOUNTABILITY AND EFFICIENT SERVICES our budget is balanced and our resources are used carefully to maximize services to the public. our purchasing director has implemented efficiencies in our purchasing policies and practices that have saved taxpayer dollars, and our human resources director has initiated trainings to reduce employment costs. additionally, many costsaving options have been initiated and contracts renegotiated for savings in jail-related and other departmental expenses. our website has been updated to provide easier use, and we recently authorized video streaming of commissioners’ court meetings to keep the community informed.

WORKING WITH COMMUNITY PARTNERS AND LEGISLATORS it’s a privilege to represent our county and community interests at the regional and state level. Working with Representative Pitts and Senator Birdwell has enabled us to secure a new district court and receive funding for critical projects. collaborating with our cities and community leaders and facilitating their efforts has been a priority. Doing so has been instrumental in managing county growth, obtaining TxDoT funding for county and city road projects, and bringing jobs and more community college, technical and university educational opportunities to ellis county.

ENHANCING THE FUTURE i am looking forward to the future. There are many other projects for the commissioners’ court to explore and challenges to meet… streamlining road operations and bettering our road system, securing more state and federal funding for infrastructure, continuing to upgrade public safety, and completing construction projects made possible by the recent sale of our county buildings. The list and ideas go on, and they are all for a “worthy cause” - our community.

Thank you for joining me in DaRing gReaTlY for ellis county.

PRINCIPLES OVER POLITICS » PROVEN

LEADERSHIP

» PROMOTING COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP

» PROTECTING PUBLIC SAFETY

Please support Judge Carol Bush by voting in the Republican

PRIMARY ELECTION Tuesday, March 4, 2014.

Early voting begins on February 18, 2014.

www.JudgeCarolBush.com Political advertising paid for by the Carol Bush Campaign, P. O. Box 203, Waxahachie, Texas 75168

Approved Home Health Care A Family your Family can Trust When the time comes to begin making decisions regarding care for older relatives, many are anxious and uncertain. is it really time to remove them from the home they love? can caretakers be trusted? Will loved ones know they are safe? it was issues like these that louis Ponder and his wife, kathleen, set out to solve when they first started approved Home Health care in midlothian. “my wife and i decided to go into home health care to not only support ourselves, but our community and more specifically our aging population,” louis said. “They are our parents, grandparents, schoolteachers and city elders. These are the folks who cared for us as children. What better way to say thanks than to take care of them when in need? Home health isn’t just a business for us, but rather a preservation of the family.”

They began seeing patients for free near the end 2005, working to become medicare certified and accredited through the community Health accrediation Program (cHaP) before they could begin billing. They were certified in april of 2007, and have been improving quality of lives for homebound patients in ellis,

CONSISTENT CARE “With us, the vast majority of our staff see the same patient throughout their plan of care. essentially they are married to those patients. We feel it provides more continuity of care as well as making the patient more comfortable. no one likes strangers in and out of their home,” louis said. approved Home Health care provides skilled nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy,

Dallas, Tarrant, Johnson, Hill and navarro counties ever since. “all too often the elderly end up in nursing homes prematurely,” louis said. “The nursing and therapy that we provide more often than not allows these folks more quality time in their home and more time with their children or grandchildren. They become our family!” in march 2013, the agency received quite a review during a random cHaP audit, or “survey.” “integrity; that is not a word that i’ve used in describing any other agency,” the surveyor said. “You folks have a great agency with a great foundation.”

“My grandmother living in a nursing home the last 20 years of her life is one of the things that directed me into home care.

The last five made sense, but the 15 prior could have been avoided had home health been available for her back then.”

speech therapy, medical social services and home health aides. common types of care include: » Wound care » orthopedic rehabilitation & care » Diabetic care & education » infusions and injections » Disease management » ostomy care & education » catheter care & education » medication management » Pre-operative home safety assessments » enteral feedings

loUiS’ gRanDmoTHeR PoSeS WiTH HeR TWo SonS (loUiS’ FaTHeR & Uncle)

sPecial adverTising FeaTure

“Family is what it’s all about. That is our philosophy when it comes to our staff as well. We try to treat them as family and over the years that is what we’ve become.”

Meals On Wheels

“The greatest reward in life is in making the lives of others more rewarding!”

– Louis Ponder, Owner

Extending A Hand Quality care isn’t just a job for the Ponders, it’s a way of life. other than caring for clients, approved Home Health care lends a hand (or a paw) to others who may be vulnerable within the community. Here are louis’ thoughts on a couple of his favorite causes.

The meal deliveries to some of these elders are often the only interaction they receive each day and often the only nutrition. i try to urge everyone to give in some way. if one can’t donate money, donate time. volunteer to deliver meals. it is so rewarding to see the smiles on their faces when they open their doors.

SPCA

These animals just want to be someone’s companion. i try to urge everyone to not purchase pets from pet stores, puppy mills or commercial breeders. There are way too many loving animals needing a home in the shelters of our communities. our great Dane, Francesca, is a rescue and is the most wonderful companion we could have ever hoped for. i urge folks to think seriously about adopting the older animals in the shelters. all too often they get euthanized because everyone wants a puppy. The older ones are generally calmer and often already house trained. There is also the reward of knowing that you made their last years good years.

MEDICAL

{ HealTH & WellneSS }

Why do I have all these

CRAZY CRAVINGS?

BY TRiSTa e. PRaSiFka RD, lD

There is likely not one person who can admit to never having a craving for a certain food. it is the topic of millions of articles, conversations and possibly confessions! most of us are hoping there is some truth to certain myths about food cravings or some type of scientific reason. in truth, there are likely equal amounts of studies and articles that support scientific data behind this as there are those who deny it. let’s try to break down some of the myth vs. fact: CrAvINgS DUrINg prEgNANCY multiple studies support the evidence that during pregnancy, cravings are often prompted by changing hormones as well as aversions to food due to increased sense of taste and smell. Women crave everything from salty, sour, sweet and fatty foods. There is also evidence that women will react similarly during menopause.

CArBOhYDrATES/STArChES a craving for excess starches, carbohydrates or junk food can also be somewhat validated. When our bodies are at rest, various hormones ebb and flow. if a person does not get enough sleep, the obvious result is a sense of fatigue the next day, and in some cases a craving for carbohydrates. evidence shows that this may be your body’s way of obtaining energy. carbohydrates are generally broken down into glucose, which is used as fuel for the body and brain. The brain signals that it needs more energy and voila, pumps in more glucose after the high carbohydrate meal. Trying to get enough good quality sleep and staying hydrated are good ways to ward off these cravings.

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ChOCOLATE Some research theorizes that craving chocolate may indicate low levels of magnesium. magnesium is also related to energy, and when low can create feelings of fatigue. Try reaching for dark chocolate if you decide to satisfy your craving. chocolate 75 percent or higher in cacao is the best choice. You can also add in raw nuts, seeds, legumes and fruit. rED MEAT cravings for a large juicy steak can be a sign that your body needs more iron. it may or may not indicate an iron deficiency, since everyone reacts differently. Some women will often crave red meat during menstruation, as their bodies are likely requiring more iron. choosing lean red meats may help satisfy your craving while also providing a healthy portion of iron.

ChEESE There is limited data, but some articles suggest that craving cheese could indicate a fatty acid deficiency. Healthy fatty acids (omega-3 fatty acids) are found in walnuts, salmon and flaxseed. adding ground flaxseeds into your diet may help offset this craving.

SALTY fOODS/fATTY fOODS chronic stress can often prompt us to crave salty and fatty foods. Stress affects certain glands, which impact our body’s ability to deal with stress and cope better.

Your body may then produce excess cortisol, making you hungrier for high fat, salty foods. Finding ways to deal with stress (other than food) is the best way to decrease this craving. Deep breathing, meditation,

prayer, yoga and exercise all help your body manage stress. Speaking to a health care provider or counselor may also help.

There is one type of craving that can be dangerous or unhealthy. The craving for abnormal foods or substances is called pica. Pica can often be a result of certain vitamin or mineral deficiencies, as well as other health issues. People will often crave flour, cornstarch and ice. But in some cases, people can crave dirt, clay, paper or other abnormal food sources. consuming too much of these things can cause certain vitamin or mineral issues in the body, tooth enamel erosion, stomach upset and constipation. if you find yourself routinely wanting these things, it is a good idea to see your healthcare provider for testing. in general, cravings are not bad. in moderation, satisfying your craving may be “just what the doctor ordered.” However, if you continue to crave specific foods, it is a good idea to have a routine physical or appointment with your healthcare provider to make sure there is nothing abnormal. in general, it is always best to try to eat a healthy, balanced diet, make sure to get adequate quality sleep, drink plenty of water and decrease your stress level to stay healthy!

Trista is a registered and licensed dietitian in ovilla providing personal and group nutrition counseling. She earned a bachelor’s of science in biomedical sciences from Texas a&m University and a bachelor’s of science in clinical nutrition and dietetics from The University of Texas Southwestern medical center in Dallas. contact her at tristardld@yahoo.com.

SLEEP APNEA: The healThcare ParTner you Wouldn’T exPecT

“mr. Smith, i think you should be tested for sleep apnea.” You would think that statement would come from your family physician, perhaps only after you complain to them about snoring or poor sleep. But increasingly, this statement could be coming from your family dentist. as strange as it may seem, there are certain risk factors for sleep apnea that a dentist is actually more likely to see than your physician.

The first sign is called bruxism, or grinding your teeth at night. The theory is that folks with sleep apnea will subconsciously move their lower jaw around at night in an effort to open up their airway. Dentists can see evidence of this in the wear patterns on your teeth. Sometimes, significant grinding will cause the sides of your tongue to become scalloped like piecrust instead of being straight and smooth. occasionally, the cause of your sleep apnea is the size and shape of your facial bones. if the roof of your mouth is very high and narrow compared to the average patient, you could possibly have a restricted airway, causing you to breathe in less oxygen at night. many times this is accompanied by a very long lower face,

chronic allergies and mouth breathing. if you have any or several of these risk factors, your dentist may very well start asking lots of questions about things unrelated to your teeth.

Behavioral signs such as snoring, excessive daytime sleepiness and the ability to fall asleep easily in the middle of the day are all clues that we need to delve further. medical warning signs include high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, depression and waking up several times at night to use the restroom.

Just because you have several risk factors does not necessarily mean you have sleep apnea, and your dentist cannot definitively diagnose this condition. However, if your dentist finds reason for concern, he or she will likely refer you to a sleep physician for consultation and testing.

The bottom line is this: if your dentist thinks you could possibly have sleep apnea, please follow up with your family physician or a physician specializing in sleep medicine. Whether you notice the effects of this condition or not, untreated sleep apnea can have both debilitating and life-threatening consequences. it’s simply too important to ignore!

“i have Been diagnosed WiTh sleeP aPnea. noW WhaT?” Believe it or not, your dentist could hold the answer yet again! many dentists are trained in oral appliance therapy, where a mouthpiece is precisely fitted to your teeth to hold your lower jaw forward while you sleep. Holding the lower jaw forward effectively opens the airway of many patients, oftentimes just as effectively as a cPaP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine.

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BY Toni engRam D.D.S.

MEDICAL

many patients who have been diagnosed with sleep apnea have a hard time adjusting to the cPaP machine they were given. many find it so cumbersome, in fact, that it winds up collecting dust in a closet somewhere. not only is this frustrating for patients and doctors alike, it leaves the patient’s sleep apnea dangerously untreated. if you have been recently diagnosed with sleep apnea, or if you’ve tried unsuccessfully to use a cPaP machine, let your sleep doctor know. He or she will help guide the decision as to whether appliance therapy is appropriate for you. The american academy of Sleep medicine and the american academy of Dental Sleep medicine recently collaborated to provide some guidelines for oral appliance therapy. visit www.aadsm.org for those guidelines as well as a list of dentists in your area who have received some additional training in this therapy. also helpful to note: many health insurance plans cover oral appliance therapy the same as they would a cPaP machine.

So, the next time you go to your dentist for a cleaning or filling, don’t be alarmed if we ask you how you’ve been sleeping at night. Screening for and treating sleep apnea is just one way your dentist can be a valuable part of your healthcare team!

Dr. engram practices dentistry at legacy Dentistry in midlothian. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Baylor college of Dentistry in Dallas after graduating magna cum laude from TcU with a Bachelor of Science in Biology.

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MEDICAL

Owner Of a

Healthy Heart

BY JUlie maRTin oF BaYloR WaxaHacHie

as home to the most romantic day of the year, February is a good time to celebrate love and romance. But valentine’s Day is not the only reason you should indulge matters of the heart this February. it’s also national Heart month. and while heart disease remains the number one killer of americans – both men and women – advances in technology and knowledge are changing the way the disease is detected, treated and prevented.

Complex Muscle.

Complex Disease.

For all that we hear about heart disease and its dangers, ask five people what exactly heart disease is, and you will likely get five answers. So what is it? is it heart attacks? is it high blood pressure? Heart failure?

“Heart disease can actually be divided into four major categories,” explains Haojie Wang, mD, general cardiologist on the medical staff at Baylor medical center at Waxahachie. “The first category is coronary artery disease, which is probably what people most often associate with heart disease.” coronary artery disease (caD) is the build up of plaque in the arteries of the heart. This plaque, which is made up of fat, cholesterol and calcium, narrows arteries and can eventually lead to heart attack. caD happens slowly over many years, meaning that a “sudden” heart attack usually isn’t all that “sudden” after all.

Fortunately, a new, non-invasive imaging procedure called calcium scoring has been developed in recent years to help detect early caD. “We use a cardiac cT scan to show calcium deposits in the arteries. it’s a really nice tool to have, and can lead to earlier interventions in patients with early coronary artery disease,” Dr. Wang said.

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calcium scoring is recommended for men 40 and older and women 45 and older who are at risk for caD. Some cardiovascular care centers in north Texas even provide low-cost calcium scoring tests for qualified patients without a physician order.

Problematic Plumbing

“The second category of heart disease is valve disorders like leaky valves and aortic stenosis, where the aortic valve narrows,” Dr. Wang said.

The heart is comprised of a series of valves and chambers. But as with any plumbing system, there can be malfunctions. While problems can and do occur in any of the heart’s many valves, the most serious issues often occur in the aortic valve and require the valve to be replaced with an artificial one.

For decades, aortic valve replacement could only be performed via open heart surgery.

That meant it wasn’t an option for many elderly patients or those otherwise judged too medically fragile to undergo major surgery. However, thanks to new techniques and technology, in some instances, valves can now be replaced through a minimally invasive procedure that uses a catheter to deliver and deploy an artificial aortic valve.

Not Skipping a Beat

an arrhythmia, or irregular heartbeat, is considered the third category of heart disease, according to Dr. Wang. The most common type of arrhythmia is atrial fibrillation (afib). “atrial fibrillation is when the top chambers of the heart begin to quiver or shake,” he said. “With an aging population, the incidence of afib is increasing dramatically.” causes of afib and other irregular heartbeats vary, and it’s not just a problem for the

TUrN ThE pAgE fOr TIpS ON fOLLOWINg A hEArT-hEALThY DIET.

living-magazine.com // JanUaRY-FeBRUaRY 2014

heart. afib is a frequent culprit behind blood clots, which form in the heart and then break off and travel to the brain. in fact, about a quarter of strokes in the U.S. each year are attributed to afib. many patients manage their risk of afibrelated blood clots through blood-thinning medications, such as the decades-old Warfarin. Recently, new drugs have hit the market, which have also proven effective at reducing risk of clots. in addition to novel medications, new methods of mapping the heart are being used to determine precisely where an arrhythmia is originating. once identified, a catheter can be guided through the femoral vein or artery to the troubled area of the heart to deliver treatment.

Overcoming a Weakness

Besides conditions affecting vessels, valves and rhythms of the heart, the muscle itself can deteriorate through cardiomyopathy – diseases that can lead to an enlarged, thickened, rigid or weakened heart. as with other heart issues, causes of cardiomyopathy vary. “as cardiomyopathy worsens, the heart becomes weaker,” Dr. Wang said. “it’s less able to pump blood through the body and maintain a normal electrical rhythm.” The end result may be congestive heart failure or an arrhythmia.

Fortunately, most cardiomyopathies can be managed successfully by medications and treating underlying causes. However, some may require a heart transplant or ventricular assist device (vaD), which is a mechanical circulatory device that is used to partially or completely replace the function of a failing heart. like computers, over the years, vaDs have become smaller, portable and easier to install and use.

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MEDICAL

Healthy Heart Diet

FRom BaYloR Jack anD Jane HamilTon HeaRT anD vaScUlaR HoSPiTal

a diet that is healthy for your heart is low in saturated fat and cholesterol. other healthy choices are to increase your intake of fiber and decrease how much sugar, sodium and salt you eat. By learning to read food labels, you can determine the amount of sodium, sugar or cholesterol in a product and make healthier food choices.

» Remove the skin of chicken and cut the extra fat off meat before you cook it » Brown meat under the broiler » Use broth instead of fat » Use nonstick pans or cooking sprays » Steam or microwave vegetables, and serve with herbs or non-fat, butter-flavored seasoning

Reduce Saturated Fat and Cholesterol Eat Less Sugar To protect your heart, you must reduce the amount of saturated fat and cholesterol in your diet. choose low-fat, low-cholesterol foods whenever possible.

HealtHy CHoiCes:

Research indicates that a diet high in sugar can increase your risk of heart disease. For a healthier heart, reduce the amount of sweets in your daily diet.

CHoose:

» canola oil, olive oil, olives, avocado, nuts » non-fat or 1% milk; non-fat or low-fat yogurt » Fresh fruits and vegetables, plain frozen vegetables » Whole-grain bread, cereal, pasta, pretzels » Fish*, white-meat chicken and turkey, dried beans, tofu, lean cuts of meat

» Fresh fruit » Homemade dessert breads such as pumpkin, zucchini and cranberry » club soda, seltzer water or mineral water

*children and pregnant women should avoid eating fish with the highest level of mercury contamination.

Decrease Sodium and Salt

Low-Fat Cooking

» Broil, roast, bake, steam or microwave fish, chicken, turkey and lean cuts of red meat

avoid:

» Sweet snacks and candy » Store-bought pies, cookies and other packaged baked goods

Sodium is in salt. it is used to flavor and preserve foods. in some people, sodium can contribute to high blood pressure. choose and prepare foods with little or no salt. aim to eat less than 2,300 milligrams of sodium per day.

*

Read Food labels

on food labels, the section labeled nutrition Facts will tell you how much sodium is in a product. also, check the list of ingredients. look for the words “salt” or “sodium.” if either word is listed at the beginning of the list or more than once, the food probably has a lot of sodium.

on a Food label:

» Sodium free: less than 5 mg of sodium per serving » very low sodium: 35 mg or less of sodium per serving » low sodium: 140mg or less of sodium per serving » Reduced sodium: at least 25 percent less sodium per serving than the regular product » light or lite: at least 50 percent less sodium per serving than the regular product » no salt added: no salt is added to a product that normally has salt added

Eat More Fiber

a diet high in fiber can help lower your cholesterol. adults need about 25 grams of fiber each day. check the chart below to see how much fiber you’re getting in your diet. » 1 small apple: 3.1 g » 1 medium banana: 1.8 g » 1 medium raw carrot: 3.7 g » 1/2 cup green beans: 1.2 g » 1 small orange: 1.8 g » 2 biscuits shredded wheat: 6.1 g » 1 slice whole-wheat bread: 2.4 g

fOr ThIS ArTICLE AND MOrE ON hEArT hEALTh, vISIT BAYLOrhEArThOSpITAL.COM AND CLICk ON “hEALThY LIvINg.”

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Be Heart Smart “avoiding transfats has been shown in clinical trials to reduce the risk of coronary artery disease,” dr. Wang, general cardiologist on the medical staff at Baylor Medical center at Waxahachie, said. he also says that a diet high in vegetables, whole grains and fish has been shown to be heart smart. other tips include: Quit smoking, maintain a healthy weight, eat a low-fat diet consisting of low-fat meat, stay away from processed foods, take medicine to manage blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol, and start screenings in early adulthood if you have a family history of heart disease.

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MEDICAL

ADHD

BY DR. kaTHeRine DonalDSon

Dear Dr. Donaldson,

My friend’s son was recently diagnosed with ADHD. I see the same symptoms in my son.

What is the next step? children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (aDHD) have problems performing daily activities both at home and at school. in addition, they often exhibit disruptive behaviors. Research suggests as many as 8 to 10 percent of schoolage children suffer from aDHD. it is diagnosed more often in boys than in girls. it has a genetic component, showing up more often in children who have a family member diagnosed with aDHD. aDHD can be diagnosed as primarily a problem with inattentiveness (aDHD, predominantly inattentive presentation), as a problem with hyperactive-impulsive behaviors (aDHD, predominantly hyperactive presentation), or a combination of both (aDHD, combined presentation).

The inattentive cluster includes such symptoms as inability to pay close attention to details, making careless mistakes,

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having problems sustaining attention, not listening when spoken to directly, an inability to follow through on instructions or finish a task, trouble organizing tasks, avoiding tasks that require prolonged mental effort, losing things, being easily distracted and forgetfulness. Hyperactive and impulsive symptoms include fidgeting, trouble remaining seated, excessive running and climbing, inability to play quietly, being constantly on the go, talking excessively, blurting out answers, difficulty waiting for his or her turn and interrupting or intruding on others’ activities.

There are other disorders that share some of these symptoms, so it is important that a proper diagnosis is made by a clinician qualified to assess aDHD. as a clinical psychologist, i am often asked to assess aDHD. Parenting a child with aDHD can be challenging, but there are things you can do to empower your child and help him cope.

First, enlist a team for support. a psychologist can diagnose and provide behavioral interventions to help your child. if medication is required, your pediatrician will find a medication suitable for your son. Your child’s teacher will also be a resource to help him succeed at school and provide you with updates about his progress.

other things you can do include creating a behavior chart with a reward system. The rewards should be frequent for younger children, as they do not do well with delayed gratification. Progress can be tracked with stickers. a predetermined amount of stickers can be redeemed for a reinforcement (an extra story at bedtime, a trip to the park…).

Praise your son when he exhibits positive behaviors. children with aDHD often feel badly about themselves because they have experienced so many frustrations and failures. Provide opportunities for successful experiences to build his selfesteem.

When aDHD goes undiagnosed, it can result in aggressive behavior, feelings of worthlessness, depression and poor academic performance. if your son has aDHD, the sooner he is diagnosed the sooner you can get help with treating behavioral and school problems and the sooner he will start feeling better about himself.

DR. DonalDSon is a clinical psychologist practicing in Waxahachie.

She can be contacted at donaldsonpsyd@aol.com or by visiting donaldsonwellnesscenter.com.

sudoku is a logic-based number placement puzzle where the objective is to fill the 9x9 grid. do you have to use arithmetic? no! nothing has to add up to anything else. instead, you solve the puzzle with reasoning and logic. each column, each row and each of the nine 3x3 boxes should contain the digits from 1 to 9, only one time each (that is, exclusively).

Find the answers at www.living-magazine.com and click on the Sudoku link.

living-magazine.com // JanUaRY-FeBRUaRY 2014

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LA FIN

LIFE IS

Good...

I wrote an article a few years back about sailing in the Abaco Islands on a catamaran, where charming restaurants and laid-back bars have a quaint feel of New England in the tropics. I didn’t think that trip could be beat, but recently I had an opportunity to return in a way I never dreamed. A childhood friend invited me to fly on her private jet for a girls trip to the Abacos. I don’t know about you, but traveling on a Learjet to a friend’s home in the Bahamas is a lifestyle I am certainly not accustomed to.

My instructions were to arrive at the exclusive Jet Linx terminal at Dallas Love Field 15 minutes before takeoff. What?

No getting to the airport two hours early for an international flight carrying my latte, neck pillow and four hours of downloaded movies to kill time? No airport security checks, no dreaded layover in Miami?

Instead, we were landing in the islands by lunchtime. A private boat was waiting to take us across the turquoise Sea of Abaco to Baker’s Bay, a posh new development on the northern end of Great Guana Cay. If this is what they call a jetsetter life, I liked it. The ultimate girls trip had started.

As we disembarked, fresh conch fritters and a glass of rum punch was awaiting our arrival at the dock. The Baker’s Bay property manager welcomed my host back to the island and explained that Leonardo Dicaprio enjoyed his stay when he leased her house, and Tom Brady and his supermodel wife, Gisele, were coming

back next week for a repeat visit. When did my friend become landlord to the rich and famous? As we enjoyed our welcome cocktail we overheard other folks talking about Zac Brown strumming his guitar on the dock a few weeks earlier. Not to be confused with Coach Mac Brown, who apparently also owns a home in Baker’s Bay. It was as if I was in on a secret place only an elite group knows about.

The friendly Bahamian staff took our luggage and we followed in golf carts to the house, a jaw-dropping site with two-story wrap around veranda porches that overlook the Atlantic Ocean. Inside, the home was spectacular with West Indies style four-poster beds, huge marble baths, magnificent living rooms and a gourmet kitchen. No detail was left undone. We had a chef, daily maid service, awesome pool, private beach and a well-stocked bar. There was a boat at our disposal for snorkeling, scuba diving or deep sea fishing, but we spent our mornings by the pool and drove the golf cart to the beach club, where we laid on a tethered float in the ocean and staff would wade out to us with a fresh cocktail when needed. Other days we would enjoy a massage or facial at the exclusive spa, then raid the Sip Sip cottage on the fourth green of the Tom Fazio designed golf course. Chocked full with flights of self-serve rum and tequila, ice cream bars, lobster salads to go and apothecary jars full of every candy you can name, all there for the taking. Martha Stewart even blogged about the Sip Sip

when she visited friends on the island.

One night we ventured to the other end of Great Guana Cay and relaxed at Nippers Beach Bar. I had been to the famous Caribbean bar on my sailing trip, but let’s just say that was the only part of this return destination that was remotely similar. The majority of our stay was spent inside the secure gates of this secret paradise.

We giggled and laughed and did silly girl things while reminiscing about the old days; we were in elementary school together, showed Quarter Horses for 10 years and were bridesmaids in each other’s wedding. I have watched her grow into an awesome Christian warrior, raise extraordinary children and take on tremendous philanthropic projects. You can’t make old friends, and to have someone in your life so generous to share their enormous blessings are experiences I won’t forget.

AS WE WERE LEAVING THE ISLAND, A ZAC BROWN BAND SONG WAS PLAYING AT THE DOCK. I WONDERED IF HE WROTE IT ON BAKER’S BAY? “I GOT MY TOES IN THE WATER, MY FEET IN THE SAND, NOT A WORRY IN THE WORLD, A COLD BEER IN MY HAND...LIFE IS GOOD TODAY…LIFE IS GOOD TODAY.”

Cindy Burch

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.

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