July 2012 Ellis County Living Magazine

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With over 3,000 projects successfully installed in the area, our staff has the knowledge, experience and price to make your project a success.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS 36

TABLE OF CONTENTS

2012

DESIGNING YOUR DREAM OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE

20 10

CHECK OUT THE LATEST IN LOCAL FASHION

FASHION Salute Your Shorts 10 Summer Survival Tips 14 Staff Beauty Picks 16

LIFE & STYLE Wedding: Color Trends 18 Relaxing Reads 20 Spirited Staycation 22 Fruit Fixation 24 A Mother’s Tale: Dear Lyla 26 It’s Not Easy Being Green 28 Travel: The Beauty of Barbados 30 Marketplace 32 History: All Aboard 34

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JULY-AUGUST 2012

RELAXING READS

JULY AUGUST HOME & GARDEN Designing Your Dream Outdoor Living Space 36 Four Houses 44 July & August Plants 48 Protecting Yourself from Your Backyard 50 Educating Ellis County 52

MEDICAL Fun in the Sun 54 Mind Your Brain 56 Banking on a Cure 60 Silent 62 Diet & Depression 64 Making Every Shot Count 66 Simply Sonoma 68

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Living

ELLIS COUNTY

MAGAZINE

VOLUME 8 ISSUE 4 PUBLISHER CINDY CAMP

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 was the perfect candidate to start Ellis County Living Magazine. Send her your thoughts at publisher@living-magazine.com.

ART DIRECTOR JENNIFER KEMP EDITOR KATHRYN KEMP ADVERTISING PAMELA MCCRORY BRITTANY HUSTED CFO SUSAN KOSORIS INTERNS TYLER-MARIE EVANS IZAMAR LOREDO KARA KISTNER 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 2012, 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.

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter! www.facebook.com/EllisCountyLiving twitter.com/ECLiving

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

JENNIFER is the art director for Ellis County Living Magazine. She is a perfectionist who works around the clock to make sure the magazine maintains its high design standard.

While ad design and page design are two very different worlds, her charming and positive nature keeps the two sides of magazine production working well together. Send questions or comments to jennifer@living-magazine.com.

KATHRYN is the editor of Ellis County Living Magazine and earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Texas at Austin. A curious nature drives her to always be asking questions and learning about the world around her. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, going out with her friends and playing games. Contact Kathryn at kathryn@living-magazine.com.

PAMELA is our advertising representative for Waxahachie and Red Oak. She has an extensive background in sales and advertising and runs a promotional advertising business. She enjoys spending time with her family and friends, cooking, entertaining and traveling. Contact her at pamela@eclmedia.com.

BRITTANY has joined the Living Magazine staff as an advertising representative for Midlothian and Ennis. After graduating from Waxahachie High School, she earned a degree in business administration from Texas State University.

She loves meeting new people and faces any challenge with a great attitude. In her spare time, she enjoys being with family and friends, traveling and taking pictures. Contact her at brittany@living-magazine.com.

SUSAN is the chief financial officer of Ellis County Living Magazine. A University of Texas business school graduate, Susan has 25 years of experience in business management, marketing and accounting. She has three sons and enjoys volunteering, cooking, reading and traveling.

Contact her at accounting@eclmedia.com.

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

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JULY-AUGUST 2012

STAFF PHOTOS TAKEN BY MARIE Q PHOTOGRAPHY

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AROUND TOWN EDITOR’S NOTE With the onset of another Texas summer comes the promise of some seriously hot days. In researching for the Backyard Issue, we discovered some great ways Ellis County residents are beating the heat and designing outdoor living spaces that will stay pleasant despite the rising temperatures.

We had tons of fun visiting backyards full of character, class and charm (and for the most part, lots of shade - a must under the summer sun).

Beginning on page 36, find tips for designing your ideal outdoor living space and see pictures of some of the amazing local yards we’ve seen.

You’ll also find some refreshing drink ideas, relaxing reads to enjoy on a lazy day, tips for keeping your brain healthy, and much, much more!

Our next issue is the Wedding Issue and we are already setting out to discover the latest trends, recent notable weddings and anything else that pertains to the big day.

If you have any ideas or recently attended a great wedding, send me an email at editor@living-magazine.com.

What’s happening in Ellis County...

EDUCATION STATION CHARITY BOWLING TOURNAMENT July 21 at 7 p.m.

Hill Top Super Bowl in Waxahachie The Midlothian Police and Fire associations are hosting a bowling tournament to raise money to buy school supplies for local children in need. Get your team of four together and join other Ellis County residents to make sure local students are prepared and excited for the upcoming school year.

The $100 per team entry fee includes three games and shoes for all. To register, contact Lt. Garland Wolf with the Midlothian Police Department at 972.775.7652 or garland.wolf@midlothian.tx.us.

CRESCENT YOGA STUDIO TEEN AND KIDS’ YOGA CAMPS July 9-13 for ages 5-10 & July 16-20 for ages 11-16.

11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

810 Alex Ln., Midlothian Send your kids to a camp this summer that will teach them all about staying healthy, body and mind. Crescent Yoga Studio has customized yoga classes for pre-teens and teens to help promote healthy habits, fitness, nutrition, and positive self-esteem.

Younger kids will enjoy fun, positive, mindful movement that incorporates cooperative learning games, share circles and other energetic activities and group/team work.

Light snack provided each day. Pay $35 if you register by July 9th, or $50 after that.

Visit www.crescentyogastudio.com to learn more, or call (469) 285-3559.

MIDLOTHIAN MOVIES IN THE PARK July 14 at Hawkins Spring Park: Bring the family out for a viewing of “Soul Surfer.”

August 11 at the MISD Multi-Purpose Stadium: “Dolphin Tale” is the pick.

WISH UPON A PAW August 25 at 6 p.m.

Waxahachie Civic Center Lend a paw to local pets by supporting the Ellis County SPCA at Wish Upon a Paw. For just $50 per person, enjoy a special dinner, dance and silent auction. Visit www. elliscountyspca.org for more information and to purchase tickets.

MIDLOTHIAIN DOWNTOWN FARMERS MARKET July 14 & 28, August 11 & 25 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Larkin Newton Cabin Featuring local preserves, produce, and goodies of all kinds!

WAXAHACHIE COMMUNITY THEATER - KIDS “CINDERELLA AND THE SUBSTITUTE FAIRY GODMOTHER”

July 26-28 at 7:30 p.m.

SAGU campus in Waxahachie McCafferty Hall “It’s the night of the royal ball and Cinderella must get to the palace if she is ever to meet her one true love, Prince Charmfull.

But when she calls for her Fairy Godmother, it turns out that some bad potato salad has given all the Fairy Godmothers food poisoning! Enter Lucretia Fossilwart, scented candle saleswoman and Substitute Fairy Godmother. This will not end well...or will it?”

Tickets go on sale July 9 and are $8 in advance/$10 at the door. Visit www. waxahachiecommunitytheatre.com or call 972.646.1050.

For updates on what is happening in our area and 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 that you want everyone to know about?

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

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Downtown SHOPPING

WAXAHACHIE

The Waxahachie Downtown Merchants Association was formed by a small group of merchants in the mid 1990’s as a means for member businesses to work together to make the downtown area a viable and integral part of the city.

SINCE 1850

Trade Days of Waxahachie July 7-8 & August 11-12, doors open at 9 a.m.

Visit the Ellis County Expo Center in Waxahachie for a market full of crafts, foods, antiques and so much more!

Downtown Waxahachie Farmers Market Every Saturday and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

“Fresh And Local” is the theme for downtown Waxahachie’s Farmers Market. Whether you’re looking for produce, baked goods, crafts or gardening advice from the Ellis County Master Gardeners, you’ll find it all at Singleton Plaza.

35th Annual National Bikers Roundup August 1-5 at theTexas Motorplex NBR is a five-day event with an anticipated audience of 30,000+ attendees enjoying camping, exhibits, vendors, stunt shows, entertainment and a host of other motorcycle-related experiences.

CHECK IT OUT

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

W W W. D OW N TOW N WA X A H AC H I E .CO M

Boyce Feed & Grain Buffalo Creek Cowgirls Check It Out Fabrics Citizens National Bank College Street Printing College Street Pub Common Threads Quilt Shop Corner’s Art Gallery & Framing Crafty Scrapper Creative Laser Tattoo Removal Clinic Dan’s Maintenance Service Ellis County Art Association Ellis County Living Magazine Ellis County Museum Gifts, Etc. Gingerbread Antique Mall Glenn’s Warehouse Carpet Gran’s Antiques H&H Grocery & Deli KBEC 1390 Radio AM Klassy Klutter Martha Nell’s Clothes Tree Maxwell Jewelry Mosaic Madness NAPA Auto Parts/Marina Pool Supplies Old Town Village Antiques & Uniques Patrick Home Partnership Pearman Oil & LP Gas Pete & Re-Pete Plato Loco Restaurant Salon Friends The Gilded Lily Pad The Texas Theater The Dove’s Nest Antiques & Restaurant Tina Bohlman Gallery Tire Town TLC Event Rentals Waxahachie Daily Light Waxahachie NOW Whitley’s Philly Grille

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Does your room need a re-do? Are you ready to start that DIY project you’ve been dreaming of? Come check out the latest fabrics and accessories and let Michele Hampton help you design, transform and redecorate your home from beginning to end.

212 S. Rogers Street Downtown Waxahachie CHECKITOUTFABRICS.NET 972.938.2403

COME SHOP OR VISIT WITH THESE MEMBERS IN OUR HISTORIC DOWNTOWN AREA!

FASHION FASHION

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SHIRT, Chic Boutique $20..95 SHORTS, Chic Boutique $21.95 EARRINGS, Chic Boutique $9.95 MISS ME PURSE, Buffalo Creek Cowgirls $50 SANDALS, Briarpatch $26 BRIGHTON SUNGLASSES, Briarpatch $100

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SHIRT, Turquoise Haven $34 SHORTS, Chic Boutique $21.95 BRIGHTON PURSE, Briarpatch $160 WEDGES, Chic Boutique $34 BRACELET, Plain Jane $14 SUNGLASSES, The Dove’s Nest $12.95

SHIRT, Briarpatch $64 SHORTS, Chic Boutique $21.95 BRACELET, Turquoise Haven $12 MISS ME PURSE, Chic Boutique $80 SANDALS, Briarpatch SUNGLASSES, Chic Boutique $30

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SHIRT, Chic Boutique $34.95 SHORTS, Briarpatch $60.95 BRACELET, Turquoise Haven $12 BIG BUDDHA PURSE, Merle Norman $89.95 SANDALS, Briarpatch SUNGLASSES, The Dove’s Nest $12.95

SHIRT, Briarpatch $35 SHORTS, Buffalo Creek Cowgirls $35.99 BRACELET, Plain Jane $18 WEDGES, Chic Boutique $36 RING, Plain Jane $12.99 SUNGLASSES, Chic Boutique $30

SHIRT, Plain Jane $38 MISS ME SHORTS, Buffalo Creek Cowgirls $89 BRACELETS, Boyce Feed & Grain $9.95 EARRINGS, Buffalo Creek Cowgirls $17.99 SANDALS, Briarpatch $30 BRIGHTON SUNGLASSES, Briarpatch $90

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FASHION FASHION

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DRESS, Chic Boutique $72 NECKLACE, Turquoise Haven $18 CLUTCH, The Dove’s Nest RING, Plain Jane $12.99 WEDGES, Target $29.99 SUNGLASSES, Chic Boutique $30

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SHIRT, Briarpatch $52.95 JEANS, Buffalo Creek Cowgirls $43.99 BRACELET, The Dove’s Nest $16.95 PURSE, Turquoise Haven $58 SANDALS, Briarpatch $19.95 SUNGLASSES, Briarpatch $80

DRESS, Plain Jane $34.95 EARRINGS, Chic Boutique $9.95 MISS ME PURSE, Chic Boutique $50 BRACELETS, Plain Jane $18 WEDGES, Chic Boutique $34 SUNGLASSES, Chic Boutique $30

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FASHION

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We all want to look good poolside, but donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to look like we spent hours getting dolled up. Take care of your skin and keep makeup simple to look your best at all times. You can make life easier by getting rid of unwanted hair for good with laser hair removal. Get lashes tinted or add lash extensions and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll never have to worry about mascara running again.

SAIL AWAY IN STYLE

Think nautical head to toe: channel the high seas in navy, gold and white striped nails and anchor prints.

When relaxing by the pool and drinking fruity cocktails, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to stay hydrated and be sun savvy. Drink electrolyte-rich coconut water between cocktails to avoid getting parched. To boost sun protection, apply an antioxidant serum in addition to broad-spectrum sunscreen. My favorite is SkinCeuticalsâ&#x201E;˘ Phloretin CF. Eyes need protection to prevent cataracts, fine lines and wrinkles. Wear sunglasses that block at least 99% of UVA and UVB rays. A big, floppy hat is always a good idea as well.

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Blow-dry hair straight using a round brush, then use a large-barrel curling iron to create waves from the ears down. Tease hair gently at the crown with a fine-tooth comb.

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Gather hair into a low ponytail and twist along nape of neck, pinning as you go.

STEP 2: Stop pinning at the top of the ear and mold remaining hair into curls.

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COLOR MAX SHADOW from MERLE NORMAN are jam packed with pigment to give you those sultry summer eyes youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going for.

Pick out your favorite colors at the Merle Norman Cosmetic Studio in Waxahachie.

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A TIP FROM MEGAN AT MONA LEIGH SALON: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Before swimming, soak your hair in tap water. Your hair will soak that up instead of the chlorine.â&#x20AC;?

JULY-AUGUST 2012

PREP:

Shape and pin curls over the twist. Spray with your favorite hairspray and you are ready to go!

SUN CARE HAIR VEIL from AVEDA

repairs and strengthens hair with fatty acids and omega-3s.

The vitamins and antioxidants offer shine and protection, keeping your locks lovely despite all the sun and chlorine.

Pick some up at Mona Leigh Salon in Midlothian.

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM

Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re as practical as a ponytail but prettier; twist it, braid it or try a sock bun. Styling your hair is easier than you think. Check out the example on this page, or log on to Pinterest and see what you can find.

OUR DIY SUMMER FAVE

MOROCCANOIL TREATMENT

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Steamy summer nights call for sultry eye makeup. Metallic copper and amethyst shadows are all the rage. Try a matching liner on the bottom lash line and black on the top lashes for a dramatic look.

STEP 1:

YOU CAN STAND UNDER MY UMBRELLA

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ARTWORK BY KATE MCCLENDON

MAKE LIFE EASIER

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protects hair from sun exposure for up to 16 hours with an invisible water-resistant screen, minimizing fading, damage and dryness. Stop

by Impressions Salon in Red Oak to buy it and to check out the rest of the Sun Care line.

CANUS GOATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MILK LIP BALM is made with all natural ingredients and moisturizing goatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s milk, and has SPF 15 to protect your lips from the sun.

Find it and other Canus Goatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Milk products at Boyce Feed & Grain in Waxahachie.

CURLS ON THE GO - FREE Whether you have super straight locks or kinky curls, manage your hair with a daily Frizz Forecastâ&#x201E;˘, personalized product recommendations and tons of hair tips!

JULY-AUGUST 2012

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EMI JAY hair ties come in end-

less patterns and colors to add glam to any look. But these little accessories do so much more - they help you to give back, with a portion of all proceeds going to Locks of Love.

The hair ties, created by two teenagers from California, are favorites of trend-setting stars like Jennifer Aniston and Sarah Jessica Parker.

Find them at Buffalo Creek Cowgirls for $2.50 a piece.

Revlon Colorburst

Lip Butter

Maybelline Superstay 10Hr Stain Gloss

Maybelline Superstay

14Hr Lipstick

YONANAS!

This product will blow your mind. Though we were skeptical at first, the fruity “ice cream” it produces may actually taste better than the real thing. Plus, it’s full of nutrients that will keep your skin looking fresh and your waistline feeling slim.

*RRG $V *ROG Essie Luxeffects TOPCOAT

Maybelline Color Show, Essie Luxeffects,

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Revlon Colorstay,

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Sonia Kashuk,

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China Glaze,

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Sonia Kashuk Satin

Luxe Lipcolor With Spf 16

Estee Lauder Pure Color High Gloss

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BY TERESA CHOATE

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&RORU 7UHQGV 6ELECTING THE COLORS FOR THE WEDDING IS ONE OF THE FIRST THINGS A BRIDE WILL TYPICALLY DO ONCE THE VENUE HAS BEEN CHOSEN 7HE COLOR SELECTION CAN BE FUN EXCITING AND SOMETIMES A LITTLE OVERWHELMING ,T CAN BE INSPIRED FROM JUST ABOUT ANYTHING YOUR FAVORITE COLOR COLORS THAT COMPLEMENT THE VENUE FAVORITE FLOWERS OR AN INSPIRATION PICTURE &OLOR TRENDS ARE ALSO INSPIRED FROM HOME D COR AND CURRENT FASHION TRENDS

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One current fashion color that is being used is tangerine. It can be combined with neutrals and other shades of orange or accented with a touch of aqua.

We are also currently seeing neutrals being used in the bridesmaidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; gowns, groomsmenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s suits, or even khaki linen selection at the reception. Using clear, simple centerpiece containers, such as assorted clear bottles and vases, will showcase the colors of the flowers against the other neutrals.

Some of my favorite neutrals are slate gray, silver or platinum. These colors can add a touch of glam when combined with bright or pale yellow and make for an awesome combination with all shades of pink. The gray neutral tone can be used year-round by adjusting the complementing colors to the season of the event. Mix and match your color selection with the gray tones and see what a classy, current look it will add to your event.

This spring we saw bright yellows, soft pinks and vibrant blues used in

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JULY-AUGUST 2012

combination with white as the neutral. This made for a very pretty, soft and fresh spring wedding. We have also seen shades of purple making an appearance. Not the lavender and white of the 80â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, but more tone on tone purple hues or specific shades of plum, fig and soft, powdery lavender.

Pink, another color that remains current and fresh, is still a huge favorite for brides. The combination of all shades of pink with bright green accents is always pleasing to the eye. Pale pinks combined with corals and yellows create a soft and subtle look.

Another color that has been used for the past few seasons is green. The loden green was primarily used for fall and celadon green for spring. Tone on tone greens give a new twist, and some are mixing loden with chocolate and ivory. Brides are incorporating succulents as centerpieces and doubling them as guest favors. Chartreuse, teal and aqua are favorites in the green tone family that can be used individually or with other colors for a fresh look. The new mint and dusty

BEND THE LIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY

aqua are making their way into current color palettes as well.

Just keep in mind that whatever your color selection, every color need not be used in every aspect of your wedding. The website www.stylemepretty. com is a great source for inspiration, bringing chic, stylish weddings to the masses, from the dress, colors, flowers and, my favorite, details! Another awesome source is www.theperfectpalette. com. This site is a wedding resource dedicated to helping brides find their perfect color palette by offering lovely examples of combined color palettes that cover the entire color wheel.

As always, let me know if you need any assistance. You can send questions to: teresachoate@aol.com.

MYPANTON WEDDING &E EVENTS

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;A perfect m a creativity, th rriage of color and is app lets y ou create the perf ec for your we t color styleboard dd event and sh ing or special a can make y re it with those who our day spe ctacular!â&#x20AC;?

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LIFE & STYLE { BOOKS }

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Whether you’ve got your toes in the sand on a faraway beach or you’re enjoying some downtime in your own backyard, a good book goes hand in hand with relaxing outdoors. Here are some recommendations that are sure to please.

BY KATHRYN KEMP

FOUR SISTERS, ALL QUEENS IF YOU’RE INTO: HISTORICAL FICTION Sherry Jones Gallery Books

While I initially chose this book based on the title alone (I am one of four sisters), it ended up proving to be a great read. A lover of historical fiction, I have read quite a few books about royal figures throughout Europe’s history. This was one of my favorites. The remarkable story follows four sisters from Provence, Marguerite, Eleonore, Sanchia and Beatrice, as they eventually become queens of France, England, Germany and Sicily.

With each chapter alternating focus between the four, true historic accounts mix with some creative storytelling to tell the story of how the four queens affected their husbands, their kingdoms and each other.

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11/22/63

THE BEST OF ME

IF YOU’RE INTO: SCIENCE-FICTION/HISTORY

IF YOU’RE INTO: ROMANCE

Stephen King Scribner

If you haven’t read this one already, it’s time.

Though very long (849 pages), it’s the perfect read for long days on the beach or by the pool. The novel takes the reader back in time to experience America as it was in the late 50s/ early 60s, especially on November 22, 1963 in Dallas, the day President John F. Kennedy was shot and killed. But what if he hadn’t been? What if somebody could stop Lee Harvey Oswald and change the course of history forever? If you have an e-reader, I would recommend using it for this one, but don’t let the size of the book deter you from reading this masterpiece.

Nicolas Sparks Grand Central Publishing

A master of romantic novels, Nicolas Sparks’ novels usually make for easy reads, perfect for sunbathing. His latest novel, The Best of Me, tells the tale of two former small-town high school sweethearts torn apart then brought back together at a funeral 25 years later. As the two face the realities of their own unrealized dreams and the loss of their first love, beyond-thegrave prodding by an old mentor helps them to shed light on some undeniable truths. “In the course of a single, searing weekend, they will ask of the living, and the dead: ‘Can love truly rewrite the past?’”

MY HAPPY DAYS IN HOLLYWOOD IF YOU’RE INTO: AUTOBIOGRAPHIES Garry Marshall Random House

This autobiography tells the story of one of Hollywood’s most successful writers, directors and producers for more than five decades. With such classics as Happy Days, The Odd Couple, Mork & Mindy, The Princess Diaries, Pretty Woman and Laverne & Shirley (his sister is Penny Marshall, the actress who played Laverne), he has plenty of stories to tell. Read anecdotes about working with “The Fonz” and Julia Roberts, and see pictures to accompany them.

Testimonials from some of the stars he’s worked with paint a picture of a very talented and down-toearth man whose primary goal is to make people laugh, and his enjoyable writing proves them right.

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LIFE & STYLE { DRINKS }

63,5,7(' 67$<&$7,21 For many people, summer means the perfect time to get away. But who says you need to leave your own backyard to have a good time? These refreshing twists on your favorites come to you from all over the world, so the only trip you’ll have to make is out your back door.

BY LIVING MAGAZINE STAFF

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Kick back and imagine you’re relaxing on the beaches of Mexico with this mix from south of the border.

YOU’LL NEED: 3 limes, a 6-ounce can of tomato juice, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, 1/4-1/2 teaspoon Tobasco sauce, 1/4 teaspoon celery salt, two 12-ounce bottles or cans of beer, salt and ice.

Rub the rims of four glasses with a lime wedge and coat with salt.

Combine tomato juice, celery salt, juice of 2 limes, Worcestershire and Tobasco. Divide mixture between 4 glasses, then top each off with half of a beer and add ice. Garnish with a lime wedge. Serves 4.

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A longtime English favorite, this concoction will add some culture to your staycation. In the U.K., carbonated lemonade is used, but if you can’t find any of that at the local grocery store, Sprite will work just fine.

YOU’LL NEED: 2 cans or bottles of beer (wheat beers or light lagers are recommended), 2 cans of Sprite or other lemon-lime flavored soda, and 1 lemon.

In 4 glasses or mugs, mix equal parts beer and soda, then garnish with lemon.

Serves 4.

LIQUOR CABINET $0.99

Tell this app what is in your liquor cabinet, bar and pantry and it will tell you ideas for some tasty drinks you are ready to mix!

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Dreaming of taking off for a European vacation?

Try a Tinto de Verano, the summer drink of choice for many Spanish locals. Resembling sangria or a wine spritzer, it’s easy to make and even easier to drink.

YOU’LL NEED: 1 bottle of red wine (try something Spanish), 1 liter of Sprite or 7-up, and 1 lemon.

Mix equal parts wine and soda in a glass (1/2 cup of each is recommended), then garnish with lemon.

Mix by the glass for best results.

While this name may not be accurate, the bartenders at the Almond Casuarina Beach resort in Barbados recommend it highly. This mimosastyle cocktail goes down so easy, if you’re not careful you’ll be fast asleep and dreaming of the Barbadian beach in no time. (Turn to pg. 32 for more about Barbados.)

YOU’LL NEED: 1 bottle of white wine, 1 bottle or carton of orange juice and 1-2 cans of Sprite.

Mix equal parts wine and soda in a glass (1/2 cup of each is recommended), then add a splash of Sprite. Mix by the glass for best results.

DRINKSPIRATION

FREE This app, by ABSOLUT VODKA, helps you choose a drink based on categories like taste, color, weather, trends, time, location, bar vibe, and more.

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LIFE & STYLE { RECIPES }

FRUIT FIXATION

Whether you’re entertaining guests in your backyard or relaxing solo, a good helping of fruit is always refreshing.

These fresh and fruity recipes are sure to please and won’t take too much time away from your outdoor fun.

WATERMELON SALSA

PEAR AND BRIE BRUSCHETTA

START TO FINISH: 15 minutes SERVINGS: 6

START TO FINISH: 30 minutes (10 minute prep time) SERVINGS: 8

2 cups watermelon, coarsely chopped 1 cup roasted corn kernels 1/2 cup red onion, chopped 1 large jalapeño, seeded and chopped Juice of one lime

3 tablespoon honey 2 tablespoon olive oil 1 baguette, sliced 1/2 inch thick 1 tablespoon butter 2 Taylor’s Gold pears, cored and sliced 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped 1 wheel brie, sliced

Combine in a bowl and mix gently. Chill until served. Serve with your favorite chips or crackers, or pour over salad, chicken or fish. (Recipe submitted by Susan Kosoris.)

APPLE-CRANBERRY TURKEY BURGERS START TO FINISH: 20 minutes SERVINGS: 4

1 pound turkey breast, ground 1 small Granny Smith apple 1 small onion, chopped 1/2 cup dried cranberries 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning 4 hamburger buns Lettuce, tomato and condiments for burgers Mix all ingredients together and divide into four patties. Grill patties on each side for 5-6 minutes or until cooked through.

Toast buns. Serve patties on buns, dressed to taste.

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BY LIVING MAGAZINE STAFF

LIVING-MAGAZINE.COM

JULY-AUGUST 2012

Heat baking sheet in the oven for 5 minutes at 325 F. Mix 2 tablespoons honey and 2 tablespoons olive oil. Brush the mixture lightly on baguette slices and place onto the preheated baking sheet. Toast baguette slices at 325 F until golden brown and slightly crisp (around 17 minutes). Combine the butter and 1 tablespoon of honey in a skillet and sauté sliced pears until soft and sticky. Remove them from the pan and set aside. Caramelize walnuts using the remaining honey and butter in the skillet. Place a slice of brie on each baguette slice. Top with pears and sprinkle with caramelized walnuts. (Recipe and photo submitted by Allison Kemp.)

)RU 'HVVHUW For dessert, chop up some of your favorite fruits and put them on a skewer for a fruity kebob. Try throwing it on the grill or adding bite-sized pieces of your favorite sweet treats, like ho hos®, marshmallows, brownies, or even French toast, for a sweet start to the day. Be creative!

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LIFE & STYLE

A MOTHERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S TALE

'HDU /\OD Ever since we shared the news that we were expecting for the second time, having had a boy the first time around, phrases like, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I bet you hope itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a girl,â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;You need some pink in your house!â&#x20AC;? or, â&#x20AC;&#x153;You NEED a girl!â&#x20AC;? were thrown around quite often.

I never felt the same urgency that friends, family and even strangers felt for pink, glitter and bows. So when the ultrasound tech proclaimed, â&#x20AC;&#x153;BOY!â&#x20AC;? I was over the moon. I did not realize until that moment how much I wanted my only child to have a brother.

Fast-forward a year and a halfâ&#x20AC;Śwe were again announcing a new pregnancy. And this time we REALLY heard the girl talk, especially once we learned there were two little babies growing in my belly.

Yes, I wanted a girl, but I did not feel this intense need that everyone else seemed to feel. I think a lot of it had to do with the way it sounded to me when people said things like, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I hope you finally get a girl!â&#x20AC;?

To me, that slighted my boys. Were they chopped liver?? My boys were (are) awesome, and I was just fine without a girl, thankyouverymuch.

Then, the ultrasound showed one small but feisty little girl and one chunky, laidback little boy. We were thrilled! In our eyes, this was perfect. We loved little boys and made pretty sweet ones, but two more would have been a LOT of sword fighting and ER visits. Two girls just seemed like a

BY LINDSAY MARKERT

huge change to our testosterone-heavy household, and Momma is not a big fan of change. One of each was perfect!

Of course we got more of the girl comments, but that was okay. I took less offense to them once I knew that I did indeed have a girl on the way. When people said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Yay, you got your girl!â&#x20AC;? I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t help but remind them that I also had a sweet boy on the way to join two sweet brothers. I was super excited to throw some pink into the mix, but I just didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get it. Why did everyone have such a girl agenda?

Was it about the dance classes and prom dresses? Or just having a mini-me? I was happy, but at a loss.

I have to admit, I was also nervous (remember Momma is not a fan of change) and although I AM a girl, I was unsure of a lot of things. Do you bathe a baby girl differently? Can she have powder on her bottom? What if I buy the wrong tights?

HOW DO YOU PUT ON THESE BOWS?? All of a sudden, I felt like a rookie mom again.

And then you - and your brother - made your arrival. Three weeks early and not without a little bit of drama.

The moment I laid eyes on you for the first time I was in absolute awe. You were the tiniest thing; a picture perfect little girl.

Compared to your bigger (but younger) brother, you were so incredibly dainty.

All of a sudden, I got it. I remember holding you; staring at you and really letting it sink in. I said to your Daddy and Gram, â&#x20AC;&#x153;All those people that said I needed a girlâ&#x20AC;Ś they were wrong. I needed THIS girl.â&#x20AC;?

Lyla, you opened a part of my heart that I swear did not exist before 2:46 a.m. on

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January 21, 2012. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get me wrong; I absolutely adore your brothers. I love them more than I thought possible and more than they will ever understand.

And I think that is where the difference lies. You, sweet girl, are like me. I know the ways in which your heart will hurt as you grow up. I know the things you will hope for and dream of. Those precious boys of mine; I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know what to expect. Each day is full of surprises. They go from full on MMA style wrestling to cuddling on the couch within minutes. From fighting over Batman to wanting to make crafts. I never know what to expect. And as much as I know they will be amazing daddies one day because of the wonderful example they have in your Daddy, I know they wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t understand the love I have for them.

But you, God willing (and if I have anything to say about it-ha!), will be a mother someday, and you will understand just how strong a motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s love is. I feel a deep responsibility to make sure you understand how much you are loved, so that you can love the same. My own mother used to say to me, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Just wait until you have a little girl.â&#x20AC;? I always wondered what she meant, and now I get it. There is something so special about a little girl, and every time I look at you I am reminded of that.

With three brothers, you will probably wear blue sometimes, and there is most likely a lot of sword fighting in your future, but you are my one and only girl. I look forward to so many things with you! I get to experience first-time motherhood all over again, and I am so grateful.

And that, my precious Lyla girl, is just one of the reasons I needed YOU. The bows and tiny dresses and all the pink are pretty cool too.

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

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LIFE & STYLE { NONPROFIT }

IT’S NOT EASY BEING GREEN, A group of students from Northside Elementary in Waxahachie learn about gardening.

A green thumb doesn’t come naturally to everyone, especially in a world where space is limited and fruits and vegetables can be shipped to a place thousands of miles away in a matter of days.

Thanks to Truck Farm, a national agriculture project started in 2009 by Ian Cheney, award-winning co-creator of the documentary, “King Corn,” kids all over the nation are getting the chance to learn about growing food in small spaces. Living in Brooklyn, NY, Cheney had nowhere to build the garden he dreamed of, so he turned the bed of his grandfather’s old pickup truck into one.

In April 2011, coinciding with the release of the Truck Farm documentary, 25 new trucks from all over the country were added to the fleet, and Ellis County resident Donelle Simmons and her mother, Marilyn Simmons, were asked to man the Dallas/Ft. Worth area.

Now, along with teaching gardening classes, keeping up with their own large gardens at home, and hosting a radio show, the two visit schools throughout the metroplex teaching children about gardening.

During the 30 minute presentations, students get a chance to smell various herbs and participate in tending the garden.

Simmons said she and her mother try to focus the lessons around what the students are learning in school.

“For a lot of our lessons, I’ll pull the TEKS and see what they’re supposed to be learning in science,” she said. “But a lot of times I’ll work with the teacher, and they seem to tell me what type of lesson they want.”

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But two local “farm girls” are teaching the community how it can be.

BY KATHRYN KEMP

Simmons said while she and her mother would love to let the students sample some of the organic vegetables, with threats of soilborne diseases, various animals and rodents, and strands of E. Coli, she’d rather play it safe.

The Truck Farm also teaches students about rainwater harvesting and sustainability, using the truck’s own rainwater collection system as an example.

As of now, the DFW Truck Farm visits a school every Tuesday during the school year, but Simmons said she would like to go more often and to more schools once she finds a new truck.

“If we had a better truck, I could do two schools in one day,” she said, noting that their 1985 Dodge D150 has broken down several times. “The door flies open when you’re driving. The window doesn’t roll down, and there’s no AC.” Making it to Ellis County schools wouldn’t be such a problem, but Simmons said so far they have only presented the truck at one - Northside Elementary in Waxahachie. There, she said, students helped harvest some lettuce then took a bag of it home.

Other than a new truck, Simmons said the project could use some more supplies. She and her mother have hosted Truck Farm showers, where guests

donate items from a list, but they are always in need of more.

“When we go to the schools, we provide all of the materials. We always try to give the kids something to take home, and it just adds up,” Simmons said.

In the spring of 2013, they will host a second annual 5k fundraiser, which Simmons plans to turn into a “fun run,” with things to learn at each station. The race will be held at Fair Park in Dallas.

Until then, these self-proclaimed “farm girls” will continue to plant seeds in the minds of local youth, in hopes of cultivating a more self-sustaining and eco-efficient community.

For information, email Donelle at duchess@gardeninspirations-tx.com, or Marilyn at marilyn@gardeninspirations-tx.com. Visit their website at www.gardeninspirations-tx.com

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TRAVEL LIFE & STYLE ^ 75$9(/ `

The Beauty of

BARBADOS Stepping off the plane in Barbados is much like arriving at any island getaway destination. A light breeze blows, filling your nostrils with a hint of saltwater. You walk across the tarmac into a small airport and wait in line to chat with a local customs officer about what you plan to do with your visit. The police are dressed more like they are ready to head into combat than monitor a bunch of foreign vacationers pouring into their country.

But once you are through with the formalities and make it to your destination, you’ll find a place with so much charm, even the crabs are smiling (and with so many of them scuttling around the beach at night, that’s a good thing). In this piece of paradise, the sun seems to shine brighter. The bananas taste better. The flowers smell sweeter. The water is bluer.

The locals are always trying to make sure everyone is having a good time. This inviting atmosphere has brought numerous celebrities back again and again. Simon Cowell recently bought a home on the island and Prince Harry has made several appearances.

Perhaps the first celebrity to fall in love

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with the island was George Washington, the first president of the United States.

When his older brother was instructed by a doctor in 1751 to move to the island in hopes of easing his Tuberculosis, the 19-year-old packed up and joined him; a trip that what would be his only venture abroad. Visitors can now tour the home where Washington lived for two months and survived smallpox, essentially vaccinating him for an outbreak that would come during the Revolutionary War. For this reason, some Barbadians, or Bajans, claim to be responsible for the United States of America. They also created grapefruit, once called “forbidden fruit”.

Thank you, Barbados.

While any American visiting the island really shouldn’t miss the George Washington House, any person from anywhere simply cannot skip a swim with the turtles.

It turns out the sea turtles can’t get enough of Barbados, either, and hang out at different points around the island. You should have no problem finding a tour that can take you out to find the turtles swimming freely in their habitat, so make sure you pack a waterproof camera. Watching the graceful creatures glide seamlessly out

BY KATHRYN KEMP

of the dark abyss and into my sight, even venturing close enough to touch, is something you won’t soon forget.

With all of the rum flowing freely on the island, trying not to forget something could present quite a challenge. It only makes sense this would be the case in the birthplace of rum. Mt. Gay Rum distillery, the oldest rum distillery in the world, can be found in Barbados, and a tour of the Visitors Centre near Bridgetown is well worth your time. Watch as the rum is bottled, labeled and packed in the factory, then step into the bar to sample three different types of rum. (Our tour guide even let us pour our own samples. We were generous.)

For a little island, Barbados has a big personality that can’t be ignored. With beautiful beaches, delicious food, unbeatable hospitality and so much to see, it’s a great destination for any vacation. The locals will tell you to be sure and visit Oistins on Friday nights to mix, mingle and eat some fresh fish. If you see my friends Super Mario and Bigs, ask them to cook you some mahimahi on the beach. They won’t turn you down. It’s the Bajan way, mon.

OISTINS ON FRIDAY NIGHTS Though we didn’t make it, most locals and many tourists will tell you not to miss the party. Every Friday, locals and tourists meet here for a fish fry, dance party, and maybe a few drinks, before heading out to the Harbour Lights nightclub or the bars in nearby St. Lawrence Gap. Length: Just pop by or rock-and-roll all night.

Cost: Depends on how much you indulge.

Tip: Try a local Banks beer, “The Beer of Barbados.”

SWIMMING WITH THE SEA TURTLES If you do nothing else in Barbados, do this. Sail to a popular sea turtle hangout, hop in the water and watch some hawksbill or leatherback turtles glide around you as the tour guide feeds them.

Length: There are plenty of tour options to choose from. Research before you go, or ask about it at your hotel or resort when you arrive.

Cost: Depends on which tour you choose.

Tip: DO NOT forget a waterproof camera. I’d even recommend bringing a backup. You can buy a disposable waterproof camera for around $10.

BRIDGETOWN The island’s largest city, founded by English settlers in the 1600s, is definitely worth seeing. You could choose a tour, but we rode a city bus into town and saw it on our own time.

Length: However long it takes to get your fill.

Cost: Cab/bus fare, meals, change for some very persistent homeless men.

Tip: Bring exact change for the bus ($1 per person), and, unless you really want to get to know the natives, avoid riding mid-afternoon, when the school kids squeeze in for a ride home.

MT. GAY RUM TOUR While you can’t tour the distillery itself, the Visitors Centre allows you to watch as the rum is bottled and packaged. You’ll also see a video about its history before stepping into the sampling room.

Length: About 45 minutes for the tour, but allow for extra sampling time and don’t skip the gift shop.

Cost: $7 for adults; children get in for free. Lunch tours are also available for $50; $25 for children.

Tips: Make sure you eat a good meal before you go (unless you choose the lunch option). A sample of the 1703 rum is not included in the cost, but you can (and probably should) purchase one at the bar.

ST. JAMES PARISH CHURCH This beautiful church houses a bell predating the Liberty Bell by 56 years. According to our tour guide, every U.S. president (other than the current one) who’s visited Barbados has attended Sunday service there. Ronald Reagan made multiple appearances and is pictured inside.

Length: About 30 minutes.

Cost: Free.

Tip: The church is only open on weekdays from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., so plan accordingly.

THE GEORGE WASHINGTON HOUSE This beautiful home, full of history, was one of my favorite things to see. After a short video, visitors are led on a tour of the grounds, then may visit the on-site museum, full of journal entries by Washington himself.

Length: About an hour. Allow extra time for the museum.

Cost: $10 for adults; $2.50 for children 5-12; free for children under five.

Tip: If you are setting aside a day to see Bridgetown, see the George Washington House then.

HARRISON’S CAVE. Travel deep underground at one of “The Seven Wonders of Barbados.”

Length: About an hour for the basic tram tour.

Cost: $25 for adults; $12.50 for children.

Tip: Check out www.harrisonscave.com for more tour options.

JEEP SAFARI: Visit www.islandsafari.bb to plan an open-air jeep safari around the island. The company, Island Safari, has tours already planned, or you can pick what you’d like to do and see. In about eight hours, a tour guide took us to see the most beautiful views and a few key destinations we chose, like St. James Parish Church and Harrison’s Cave, all the while serving up tons of information about the island (and, of course, some rum punch). It’s a perfect way to see the island.

Just make sure you double check to confirm the details of your reservation. They definitely work on island time.

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/RFDO 6KRSSLQJ

LIFE & STYLE

MARKETPLACE OLD TOWN VILLAGE ANTIQUES & UNIQUES Featured Vendor: VINTAGE CHIC CUSTOM SIGNS

BY CAMI HUGHES 307 S. Rogers St. Waxahachie 972.938.9515 www.OldTownVillageAntiques.com

BRIARPATCH THE STUDIO Show off your sense of style with a piece of this beautiful, one-of-a-kind jewelry.

ALL JEWELRY 20% OFF EVERY DAY! Highway 77 & Tracy Ln. Waxahachie 972.617.7740

Pick up one of Brighton’s super-cute travel totes before heading out of town this summer.

THE LARGEST BRIGHTON SELECTION IN ELLIS COUNTY! 404 W. Main St. | Waxahachie | 972.937.7717

BOYCE FEED & GRAIN Your one-stop shop for everything from home decor and fashionable accessories, to pet supplies and backyard necessities.

441 S. College St. Waxahachie 972.937.1541 www.boycefeed.com

TURQUOISE HAVEN Live your Style~Syle your Life!

Endless jewelry & apparel options to fit every budget & lifestyle.

Unique home decor, accessories and footwear.

Wednesday - Saturday, 10-6 120 N. Highway 77, Ste. G Waxahachie 972.937.0337 www.turquoisehaven.com

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DR. NANCY’S DAY SPA Offering microdermabrasion & facials.

Gift certificates available.

Dr. Nancy MacDonald, DC ESTHETICIAN 1014 Ferris Ave. #2155 | Waxahachie 972.415.4740 www.drnancysdayspa.com

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HISTORY

$//

$%2$5' Frustrated while boarding a crowded plane recently, I recalled a time when men donned suits and ladies their Sunday best to travel by passenger train. Although my memories are vague, I do have a transcript and tape of an interview done with my dad about his hometown of Ennis and the railroad hub it once was, most especially during his youth in the 30s and 40s. The interview, done for the purpose of a college assignment, provided much more than the grade I needed (an A for the record) but also opened my eyes to a more genteel form of travel.

Both freight and passenger trains were common sights in Ennis, with freight trains still traveling through regularly (I can see a Union Pacific train from my window as I write). But gone are those sleek passenger trains even I remember from my grandfather’s days as a railroad man, the local nickname for employees of Southern Pacific. During the 30s and 40s, the railroad was the largest employer in Ennis, and the railroad men were well respected.

Because it was such a good place to work, Railroad employees were less impacted by the Great Depression of 1929.

Paid twice monthly, the men cashed their checks, then made the circuit around town paying bills: the grocer, the druggist, the “filling station” owner and more. Bills were to be paid each payday and good credit was easy for railroad men, who had a secure place to work and a steady income.

Rail transportation required the work of many, not just the men on the train: the engineer, fireman, brakeman and, of course, the conductor. A ticket agent would sell you your ticket and a porter

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BY PATTI YOUNGBLOOD

would assist with luggage. In a nearby building were PBX operators who contacted the railroad men to inform them a train was nearby and it was time to report to work. If an employee did not have a phone, a call boy would ride his bicycle to the employee’s home and possibly even awaken him to summon him to the depot.

Some of the most important employees were the men who worked at the round house and the yard house; they made sure the trains were in tiptop shape and the tracks safe for travel. My father remembered minor derailments, but only one that resulted in a fatality, and that was near Garrett in 1949.

Many passenger trains had dining cars, which provided white linens, exemplary service from a waiter in a white starched jacket and trousers and good food ordered from a menu. Many travelers brought their own sack lunches. Also, a snack bar was available and manned by “Butch” (short for butcher, a person who sells snacks on a train or in a theatre).

The older trains had seats with solid backs that could be reclined and reversed, allowing a party of more than two to visit face-to-face. Windows could be open for ventilation. A Pullman was available on some trains and could be reserved; it provided a sleeping berth, which my father said was quite comfortable. The Pullman was owned by The Pullman Car Company, which paid the railroad a fee to be included. Later trains would have more plush seating and air conditioning.

Ennis provided a north and south route

for Southern Pacific. Dallas was the northernmost point and Houston the southernmost. Travel schedules were fairly reliable. Six passenger trains came through Ennis each day, three destined for Dallas and three for Houston. If you asked a railroad man the distance between Dallas and Houston, he would tell you, “265 miles by rail.”

The trains became more crowded during WWII, often carrying military men on furlough. Because passenger trains were more crowded during these years, a ticket did not necessarily guarantee a seat; it could be standing room only. The war also left the railroad industry shorthanded as employees enlisted to serve their country, so it was not uncommon for the train crews to work back-to-back shifts. Enlisted military personnel traveled on troop trains. My father remembered a day in the early 40s, when a teacher took his class to observe a troop train; he said he and his classmates were full of excitement and waved the soldiers through Ennis!

I would not mind turning back the clock and boarding a passenger train. Not an Amtrak, but a train from the past. I would gladly even buy a ticket, something my dad never did, as railroad employees and their families had travel passes. What a sight to see: a fireman and engineer, both dressed in overalls and blue shirts (and a jumper jacket on cold days) and the conductor and brakeman in their blue serge suits with silver buttons on the jacket and cuffs. I can just hear it…”All Aboard!”

Photographs taken by J.F. Curry and provided by his nephew Dane Williams.

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Santa Claus is Cominâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; to Town Ennis depot, late 40s: A large crowd waits for Santa to de-board the Sunbeam Train on a Saturday morning.

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{ BACKYARDS 2012 }

7 TIPS FOR

DESIGNING YOUR DREAM

OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE

BY TIM TABORSKY

An increasing number of homeowners are investing in outdoor spaces as extensions of their homes. With the current state of the housing market, many find they can add value while also enjoying the benefits an outdoor living space provides.

According to Google, people searched “pergolas” more than 246,000 times, and “outdoor kitchens” more than 110,000 times in the last month. The Food Channel included outdoor kitchens in its 2012 Top 10 Trends, as more people choose to stay home or spend more time with family and friends.

Remodeling Magazine’s “Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report for 2007” found that more than 85 percent of the cost of building a wooden deck could be recouped during resale--compared with 78 percent for a bathroom remodel

and 69 percent for a family room addition.

Whether you are beginning or expanding your outdoor living space, there are abundant personal and financial reasons to build an outdoor space as an extension of your home.

So, how do you decide upon your ideal outdoor living space? I have compiled a series of tips to follow as you begin the exciting process of building your dream.

Think about the most comfortable, and perhaps your favorite, room in your home. For many, that would be the living room, dining room or kitchen. By identifying the things about that room that make it so comfortable, functional or convenient, you can draw a number of lessons for creating an outdoor living space you can use year-round.

Clockwise from left: “Mini-Versailles” at the home of Dick & Gail Dawson. John & Nancy Gause’s Koi Pond. Waterfall by Tim Taborsky of Universal Outdoor Design. A resort-style lazy river at the home of Debbie Demont. Patio design by Rivermist Pools.

Home of Dick & Gail Dawson.

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{ BACKYARDS 2012 }

1 DESIGN FOR BEAUTY

When you set up your favorite indoor living space, you likely designated a focal point (perhaps a fireplace or a favorite furniture showpiece), arranged the furniture with care, accounted for a view of the outdoors, and even considered the assortment of lighting, floor color and texture, and other aesthetics that would make it the ideal room. As you consider an outdoor living space, those factors should also be considered.

Counterclockwise from top right: Ed Stegemollerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s backyard oasis. Photo by Tim Taborsky with Universal Outdoor Design. Two treasures from the garden of Melinda Miller.

Pergola & patio by Gardenscapes by Diane.

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What will be your focal point? Is it an outdoor fireplace, gazebo, flower garden, waterfall, pond or fire pit? Every backyard with a developed outdoor living area should have

a focal point. In the past, that focal point has largely been the swimming pool or hot tub, but many are choosing to build their designs around fire features, waterfalls, well-equipped kitchens or media spaces that rival interior media rooms.

Options are truly limitless.

Forget the boundaries of what you see in catalogs or showrooms. Qualified outdoor companies can listen to your ideas and help design a custom feature that is unique to you.

Some companies, including Universal Outdoor Design, can even provide a full three-dimensional mock-up of your dreamscape to help you picture the perfect setting.

The latest trends include

blending water, fire and LED lighting to create a home resort. No longer reserved for Vegas or commercial applications, a nicely designed backyard can provide the sights and sounds of a natural waterfall, with LED accents and fire emitting from the stone.

The outdoor living area can include state-of-theart outdoor televisions that are weather resistant.

TVs can be mounted in custom cabinets that, at a push of a button, will rise from the cabinet for viewing. Cable and satellite boxes can be connected wirelessly and eliminate the need for new wiring or connections. Blu-Ray and audio equipment can be safely placed to offer the latest technology.

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HOME & GARDEN { BACKYARDS 2012 }

Top, from left: A “secret garden” at the Gause home. Waterfall by Universal Outdoor Design at the home of John & Melissa Bousquet. A minibar on a porch by Rivermist Pools. A detached patio built by James Kocian at his home.

Bottom, from left: Sitting area by Gardenscapes

by Diane. Bar by Rivermist Pools.

2 DESIGN FOR FUNCTION For an outdoor setting to become your new “favorite room,” it is important that it be functional. For example, cooking outdoors can become a hassle if you don’t have tools or appliances at your fingertips and must run back and forth to the kitchen. Outdoor kitchens can range from a simple counter and built-in grill to an array of equipment that exceeds many interior kitchens.

Latest trends for kitchen equipment include pizza ovens, flat-topped “hibachistyle” grills, cocktail stations, chill stations, warming stations and full-bar serving areas. A qualified outdoor designer can help determine what equipment will meet your needs or desires.

For illustration, consider a pool space with a refrigerated beverage area for

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those hot days where you are enjoying the pool, but don’t want to track water into your kitchen. Function is essential.

3 DESIGN FOR CONVENIENCE After traversing a busy schedule and finding a moment for rest and relaxation, the last thing anyone wants is a complex setup. Equally as important, cleanup should be simple and allow you to maximize the amount of time spent enjoying the space, rather than maintaining it.

4 DESIGN FOR COMFORT Comfort is a broad topic. Again thinking of your favorite indoor space, think about temperature, furnishings, and freedom from pesky insects. A properly designed and equipped outdoor space can be used year-round with a minimum expectation to use it no less than 10

months of the year.

Whether your space will function as a man cave to watch the Cowboys (or your other favorite team) in September and January (hopefully January), or as a gathering spot for socializing, the space should be temperate. Although an outdoor space cannot be temperatureregulated like an indoor space can, through proper design and equipment the outdoor space can be comfortably maintained. During the summer months, we want to be able to enjoy the outdoors without sweating or over-heating.

For fall and winter months, it’s nice to enjoy the cooler weather in a light jacket rather than bundled up and shivering.

TIM TABORSKY is the owner of Universal Outdoor Design, a full-service outdoor design company opening its doors this summer at the former site of The Greenery.

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,)

HOME & GARDEN From top: Poolside retreat by Rivermist Pools. An antique play fire truck and divine birdhouse at the home of Melinda Miller. Stone fireplace by Earthtones.

“Herbs” marker in Arlene Hamilton’s edible garden. One of the ponds in Ed Stegemoller’s backyard oasis.

{ BACKYARDS 2012 } most box stores. You can find a number of higher-end play sets that can blend nicely with the aesthetic you’ve worked so hard to achieve.

5 DESIGN FOR CLIMATE Ask yourself how you desire to use the space. Do you need a pergola that allows the light through? Do you want a fully roofed structure that can be used even on a rainy or snowy afternoon? Do you need a screen to help mitigate insects?

There are even hybrid options that allow different parts of your outdoor space to be used depending upon the weather.

6 DESIGN FOR FAMILY Depending upon how you intend to use the space, you may have a variety of individuals you want to share it with. While pools and hot tubs remain the obvious choices, there are a number of other ideas for outdoor entertainment as well.

In addition to outdoor televisions previously mentioned, consider a high-end playground set. Forget the inexpensive ones you’ve seen at

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If the idea of a playground doesn’t fit your stage in life, there are other options as well.

Consider, for example, a putting green.

Perhaps you could also consider an at-home sports court.

It is possible to add your own versatile space for basketball, volleyball and tennis.

7 DESIGN FOR ECONOMY As we all know, Texas summers can be really hot. By considering a number of the options above, adding hardscapes, shade, or even integrating waterless grass, you can cut down on the amount of money spent on water and maintenance.

THE BIG PICTURE As you can see, there are many factors to consider when planning an outdoor living area. After considering the functional and foundational issues of your space, it is easier to identify the best way to maximize its use and make it your new “favorite room.”

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HOME & GARDEN

{ INTERIOR DESIGN }

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BY DIANE JOHNSON COLLARD

When four local ladies were chosen to star in a new reality show on TLC called â&#x20AC;&#x153;Four Houses,â&#x20AC;? all they really knew was that they were in the running for a grand prize of $10,000 and an opportunity to be featured in Better Homes & Gardens magazine.

None of them had any idea what to expect or exactly what the show was going to be about until filming began the first day.

In a search for diversity in homes and lifestyle, TLC chose three contestants from Ellis County and one from the North Dallas area.

$QJHOD *ODVV lives in a home on

Lake Waxahachie with her husband, Bobby, and their three children.

While she can be glamorous when necessary, Angela prefers dressing in workout clothes or western wear, and her home reflects that casual lifestyle.

Interior Designer 0HUHGLWK *UDEKDP lives amidst the hustle and bustle of North Dallas with her husband, Michael, and three children.

Meredithâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s clean, sleek home reflects city life and quality living at its best, with crisp, white walls and a few select accessories.

$QJHOD *ODVV

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%UDQGL +DUSHU lives on a ranch in

rural Palmer with her husband, Kevin, and three teenage sons. A designer of vintage western-wear and jewelry, Brandi spent many years â&#x20AC;&#x153;junkingâ&#x20AC;? for just the right rustic pieces for her home. Much of the furniture was designed and made by Brandi herself.

&RXUWQH\ :DUUHQ lives in a

117-year-old Victorian Cottage in the heart of Waxahachieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s historic district with her husband, Joel, and son, Judah. A stationery designer, Courtney has a more eclectic, vintage style with a touch of country.

Four totally different styles and four totally different personalities apparently make for a great show. A million miles apart in so many ways, the girls found some similarities that surprised even them. Like Angela and Brandiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s extremely different yet similar styles (and love for cowboy boots).

Meredith, clearly not a small-town or western girl, gained a new respect for her fellow contestants as she discovered Ellis County is a great

0HUHGLWK *UDEKDP place both to live and visit The first day of filming, each gal was picked up by her personal assigned driver and taken to a Starbucks for coffee.

There was no explanation of the showâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s content or what was expected of them as they were driven individually to the Glass home for their first day of work.

Before going into the first home, each contestant was asked what she expected to see inside, based on the exterior of the home. They had no idea that this question was the first of hundreds they would answer. Every word was on film from that time forward.

After entering separately and being

kept in hiding from each other, the ladies saw their fellow contestants for the first time. No introductions were made and no information was given about them, except for Angela welcoming them to her home.

That was the beginning of a long, mysterious week of 16-hour days and an emotional experience that would prove to be both wonderful and exhausting.

The Glass home is a large family home with western dĂŠcor, where the love of outdoor living is evidenced in every room. The leather and cowhide sofas, rugged hardwood floors and stone accents are all part of the look Angela was trying to achieve in making her home fit her family style.

Angela was removed from her home and not allowed back for several hours, while the others ladies critiqued her home and talked openly about what they did and did not like about the house.

The second day, Courtney

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HOME & GARDEN

&RXUWQH\ :DUUHQ { INTERIOR DESIGN } was removed from her home for filming in her Victorian cottage.

The country-cute cottage fashions original woodwork and architectural features of the period, but is furnished with a variety of styles.

Courtney has crafty accessories and a collage’ of fabric textures and colors creating a casual look that is ideal for a growing family.

Meredith was next in line. Her Dallas home, with lightly contemporary décor in sharp contrast to the first two, is located on a tree-lined street of homes with perfectly manicured lawns off Midway Road, near the toll road.

,.

the hours got longer, the ladies’ personalities became more transparent as emotions – and exhaustion – ran high. Each contestant expressed they found it hard to critique the other homes and speak negatively, as these southern ladies were raised not to say anything insulting to anyone about anything. It is just bad manners! Now they were expected to say exactly what they thought.

“That is just downright rude. It would embarrass my mother and it would embarrass me,” said one of the girls.

“But after the first day, I got the hang of it and was much more outspoken.”

The final home to be filmed was Brandi’s rustic Texas ranch home. This unique home is filled with handcrafted furniture and accessories, and every inch is decorated with rustic relics-turnedtreasures. Brandi’s casual lifestyle is apparent in both the furniture and overall décor of this inviting home.

When asked if she would do it again, Angela said, “My husband told me he would give me $20,000 not to do it if anyone ever asks again.”

As the days dragged on and

Brandi felt that she learned a lot

Meredith stated that she felt very guilty about abandoning her family for such crazy long days, but “would do it again in a heartbeat.”

about herself in filming the show and gained a great deal of courage and inner-strength from the experience.

Courtney enjoyed the entire process and would anxiously accept the offer to do the show again. “The people and the homes were all amazing.”

“Four Houses” premieres July 2 at 9 p.m. on TLC, with the local episode airing July 16. Be sure to tune in when the winner is revealed. This should be great fun.

DIANE JOHNSON COLLARD Diane has been decorating Ellis County for more than 20 years.

Contact Diane Johnson Interiors at 972.935.8899 or djohnsoninteriors@hotmail.com.

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HOME & GARDEN

> *$5'(1,1* @

AUGUST 2012

BY MELINDA KOCIAN, ELLIS COUNTY MASTER GARDENERS

PLANTING

BUTTERFLY

HISTORY– In 1995, the Texas Legislature designated the monarch butterfly as the State’s official insect, with its distinctive orange and black marks warning off predators as it migrates from Canada through Texas every fall, ending up in Mexico for the winter.

PHOTO BY MOX MOXLEY

Create a butterfly sanctuary to encourage some of the 87 butterfly and moth species in Ellis County to grow and multiply. With careful selection of nectar plants to feed butterflies, host plants to lay eggs and plants to feed caterpillars, the garden will nurture the entire life cycle. Check out the Ellis County Master Gardeners’ certified butterfly habitat garden on the Waxahachie Creek Trail and Bike Trail for ideas.

• Put out fall vegetables during the first of the month to produce a crop before the first fall freeze. The average date for the first fall freeze locally is Nov. 15, but it could occur any time in November.

It is best to use transplants if available. Many vegetables, such as corn, winter squash and beans, can be planted from seed. Leafy (green) and root crops can be planted later in the month.

See a planting guide for fall vegetables on the website: aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu.

• Plant bluebonnets and other wildflowers directly in the ground in full sun. Soil should be free of weeds and grass and the surface should be lightly cultivated. Water well, as these plants must germinate in the late summer or fall.

• Plant fall-flowering bulbs, such as spider lily, naked ladies, rain lily, fall crocus and oxblood lily. Put them in the ground twice as deep as the diameter of the bulb. These bulbs may not bloom the first year.

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FERTILIZING & PRUNING • Prune most roses by cutting out dead canes and weak, spindly growth. Cut back stems about one-third.

Fertilize and water well for beautiful fall blooms.

• Salvia greggii (autumn sage) PHOTO BY MELINDA KOCIAN

or dug out. The chemical herbicide MSMA, previously PLANTING used on Bermuda turf, is no • Plant tomatoes and peppers longer available. from transplants. They need full • Dead turf that does not sun, mulch and water several respond to irrigation may have times a week and should chinch bugs. Check by parting survive through a hot, dry the blades and looking for summer if well watered. small black bugs with white • Use tomato varieties that are diamonds on their backs. early-maturing and tolerant of Brown areas in the lawn may the summer heat, like ‘Celebrity,’ be grub worms. Check by ‘Juliet,’ ‘Porter Improved,’ grasping a handful of turf and ‘Cherry’ and ‘Sweet 100’. pulling. If grass easily comes up, • Plant warm-season grasses you may need treatment. Treat such as St. Augustine and both with a labeled pesticide if Bermuda from sod, which they were a problem last year should look fresh and recently or if three or more grubs are dug. Bermuda grass, the most found in a square foot of turf. drought-tolerant, can also • Weed nutsedge by hand be planted from seed or by in mulched areas. It has hydromulching. Both should be underground rhizomes with kept moist until established. nutlets and likes moist or wet areas. Nutsedge can FERTILIZING AND PRUNING be controlled by applying • Deadhead all blooming plants Image or Manage, usually two and fertilize sparingly. Remove applications two to three days dead leaves and flowers from after mowing. Read and follow container plantings. label instructions.

• Pinch off flowers of herbs that are going to seed to encourage ODDS AND ENDS additional foliage.

• Keep plants with berries, • Keep pinching back growing caladiums and elephant ears tips of fall-blooming plants to well watered. keep them compact.

• On a hot afternoon, wilting is a sign of stress from lack of GARDEN WATCH moisture or inability to take up • Grassy weeds such as available moisture in the soil. dallisgrass and crabgrass Wait until morning. If the plant should be weeded by hand is still wilting, it needs water.

CACTUS Cacti are a group of plants that are not only easy to grow, but offer a variety of shapes, colors and forms.

They can be grown in any sunny, well-drained area, require little maintenance and make excellent houseplants. Many varieties may be grown inside or outside.

Ellis County’s first settlers, the Towanka Native Americans, ate the prickly pear after spines were removed with tweezers made of deer antler. Modern science has found that cooking the pad of the prickly pear adds nutrition.

can be cut back by at least one-third. Do not flat-top any blooming shrub; always leave the tops in a rounded, natural shape. If pruned now, it should display great fall and early-winter color.

• Prune abelia after it blooms.

• Prune other prolific-growing shrubs and vines such as variegated privet, elaeagnus, hollies, trumpet vine and honeysuckle.

• Pinch back the tips of fallblooming perennials, such as Mexican bush sage (Salvia leucantha), Salvia regla, Mexican mint marigold, copper canyon daisies, mums and aster, if buds have not already set.

GARDEN WATCH

• Continue to follow the “Home Owner’s Fruit and Nut Spray Schedule” to protect pecan trees against pecan weevils and hickory shuckworms.

• The same schedule applies to peach and plum trees for protection against borers.

Identify any insects, and only use a pesticide if it is necessary.

ODD & ENDS

• Use Texas natives and adapted plants that are drought-tolerant (salvias, Turk’s cap, pink skullcap, lantana, Texas betony, butterfly bush, flame acanthus and ornamental grasses). See Texas Superstars website at: www.texassuperstar.com.

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LEGAL

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BY KEVIN KOSORIS

By the time you get to this page in the magazine, you have likely read several stories about homeowners transforming their backyards from miniature garbage dumps into relaxing oases that rival the gardens at Versailles. You have seen stunning pictures of these backyards, and your head swells with genius ideas about the square footage between your back porch and the fence. You have clipped three pages of ads for everything from landscapers to pool builders, and you are ready to get your work gloves on. But as you surge ahead with making your backyard the next Living Magazine cover shot, don’t forget about the attractive nuisance doctrine.

There are two types of people in your backyard: those who are welcome and those who aren’t. Normally, a landowner does not have any responsibility to protect trespassers from dangerous conditions on his or her property. However, as with any law, exceptions exist, and an important exception to know is the attractive nuisance doctrine.

The attractive nuisance doctrine, recently codified by the Texas Legislature but an age-old legal principle, holds that someone possessing land must protect children from dangerous conditions on that land. The doctrine contemplates situations where a child trespasses onto another’s land and is injured by a “highly dangerous artificial condition.” That dangerous condition can be something like a swimming pool, a backyard construction project,

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a dangerous machine or tool, etc.

Under the doctrine, a landowner, lessee or occupant may be held liable for the injury caused to a trespassing child by the dangerous condition.

The doctrine is not automatic, however. The dangerous condition must be such that the landowner knows or should know about it. There must be a likelihood that children will trespass, and the child must, because of youth, not discover the danger or realize the dangerous condition on the land. The burden of eliminating the danger must be slight compared to the risk of the danger to children, and the owner must have failed to exercise care in eliminating the danger or protecting from it.

As you can see, the doctrine presents a very fact-specific inquiry that rarely can be determined as a black-andwhite yes or no to the question of liability. As a result, attractive nuisance cases can involve a huge amount of investigation, analysis and lawyering, all of which can be very expensive. So what can landowners do to protect themselves?

The answer lies in the last element of the attractive nuisance analysis. The landowner’s best bet is to exercise reasonable care to protect children from dangerous conditions on their land. By doing so, the landowner can disprove one of the required elements of proof in attractive nuisance and win the case. Be aware that courts can be tougher on dangerous conditions

in residential areas, as naturally more children are present in those areas.

Applying this doctrine to your upcoming backyard project, or your finished backyard, is a very good idea. Put a fence around your pool, unplug your power tools and put them away, and place temporary fencing around your unfinished construction. If you think that a condition might be dangerous to a child, it probably is.

By not taking any chances, you can ensure that your backyard will be a source of enjoyment for years to come. And, of course, if you’re not sure, always err on the side of caution.

As with any case, there are different laws that could apply to your situation, and it is wise to consult a lawyer.

DISCLAIMER: this article is not a substitute for legal advice. Every attractive nuisance case is fact-specific.

KEVIN KOSORIS is a local attorney practicing at Wray, Willett, & Stoffer, PLLC in Waxahachie.

He represents several Ellis County businesses and handles legal matters of all kinds. He can be reached at kevin@elliscountylaw.com

Residential Service Providers

CONFIDENTIAL SERVICES OFFERED:

Drug • Alcohol • DNA Paternity DOT/Non-DOT • 24-Hour Availability On-Site Testing Alternative Specimen Testing Random Programs • Collection Services 201 East Main Street • Suite 207 • Waxahachie 972.937.8655

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PROFESSIONAL

(GXFDWLQJ (OOLV &RXQW\

BY MARK SINGLETON / PRESIDENT & CEO / CITIZENS NATIONAL BANK OF TEXAS

President Dwight Eisenhower described what happens when one country bordering another falls to Communism like dominos lined in a row. When one is pushed, they all eventually fall. That domino theory has come to represent how the occurrence of one event will set off an entire string of events. I believe it has strong applications to what is happening, and what is going to happen, in Ellis County.

Several cities in our county have convened focus groups, hired consultants and assembled community leaders to discuss economic development in their respective municipalities. Although cities like Midlothian, Ennis, Red Oak and Waxahachie have differing characteristics, the blueprint for economic development is very similar: • Attract industries and businesses where wages are $18 per hour or more.

• Build new homes costing $150,000 or more.

• Have outstanding medical facilities.

• Cultivate a vibrant retail marketplace.

• Develop an outstanding school system from kindergarten through college.

• Nurture a friendly, well-rounded, community-centric lifestyle.

Think about all these aims as dominos.

Like a domino toppling maze, with one tile next to another, you push the first

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domino and one-after-another, the following piece falls into the next, which topples into the next and so on.

We now have hundreds and hundreds of dominos representing all the tasks to be accomplished to achieve a successful economic development program. The question is, which of the dominos is the most important to push first? Which of them best triggers a positive reaction in regard to the other economic development goals?

I sincerely believe the first goal within any community looking for positive growth has to be education. Here is why: When a new business is looking at a city, they often come to local bankers in order to get a perspective on the economic and social viability of a town.

One of the first questions they ask is, “What is the education environment of the community?”

Leaders of potential businesses looking at any town in Ellis County want to know the prominence of the K-12 school system, because that matters to their employees’ families. They want to know about higher education opportunities so they have a pool of better-educated students from which to hire. They desire to have a business, whether it is high-tech or a hospital, situated within a community that places a priority on education.

If developing more upscale housing is a mandate for economic growth,

a superior K-12 school district is vital in attracting families who can afford higher-end homes. If an enhanced lifestyle is used to attract new businesses and households, the heart of the culture, recreation and vitality of a city revolves around education-based programs.

Push the education domino first and the rest of the objectives of a community looking for positive growth will fall into place. It is the single most important goal any community should have.

I have a selfish motive in promoting the best education opportunities in cities where CNB of Texas has banks.

We want the best and the brightest to work for us. We want them to have great schools for parents to send their children to. We know better schools attract better new business, which builds our financial institution. I imagine that every other bank president in Ellis County feels the same way.

If you want a test to judge the progress of economic development in your community, look at its goals for education. Good school districts produce great results. Community and four-year colleges are vital incubators for a well-educated workforce.

A strong education base should be the top priority for any community.

When you push for an exemplary school foundation, other economic development goals will fall into place.

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MEDICAL

FUN in the

>`Y

BY R. GALEN KEMP, M.D.

We are in the midst of another hot Texas summer, which presents us with plenty of opportunities for fun in the sun. But many are unaware of the numerous risks to one of the most cherished of our senses: our sense of sight. July is UV Safety month, reminding us to take look at the not-so-sunny side of things.

Most of us are very aware that too much sun exposure causes skin damage, with premature wrinkling and drying of the skin, as well as significant risk of skin cancer. But there are other hazards to be aware of while soaking up those warm rays of sunshine.

Many of us wear sunglasses to shield our eyes from the uncomfortable brightness of the sun. But most of that visible light is not harmful to our eyes (unless you count the cosmetic problem of wrinkling due

1HHG 1HZ 6KDGHV" Check out the fashion pages for tips on where to find your perfect pair of sunglasses without leaving town!

to chronic squinting in bright light). The most harmful of the sun’s rays are invisible ultraviolet (UV) rays, against which the tinting of the lenses in sunglasses does very little to protect our eyes. How much tinting we choose is personal preference, depending on how sensitive we are to the brightness. However, most sunglasses these days also incorporate UV filters, which minimize exposure to those harmful invisible rays.

HOW CAN UV RAYS DAMAGE YOUR EYES?

There are two types of UV rays: UV-A and UV-B. UV-A can reach the back of the eye and cause damage to the central part of the retina, called the macula.

The macula is the part of the retina we use when reading, threading a needle, or seeing any other detail we wish to view when looking directly at something. Prolonged exposure to those rays can cause cumulative damage, resulting in premature age-related macular degeneration and loss of central vision.

UV-B rays are absorbed mainly by the tissues in the front part of the eye. The skin of the eyelids can get skin cancers like the rest of the body. Also, the human lens absorbs these rays, and this chronic exposure results in premature cataract, which is clouding of the human lens.

The conjunctiva, which covers the white of the eye (the sclera), and the cornea also get damaged by chronic exposure, resulting in growths called pterygiums.

These growths can eventually grow

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into the center of the cornea, potentially blocking the vision if not removed.

You can’t lather your eyeballs with sunscreen, but you can wear sunglasses to filter out those bad rays.

WHAT SUNGLASSES SHOULD YOU GET?

Read the labels! Sunscreens for the skin are required by the Food and Drug Administration to be labelled with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF), so we know what protection is afforded by those products. There currently is no such labeling requirement for sunglasses, but many sunglasses manufacturers do label their products. Always look for labels clearly stating that the sunglasses block 99–100% of UV-A and UV-B rays.

WHAT COLOR TINT?

That’s a personal preference thing again.

Gray is best if you want little or no distortion of color, but if you prefer to view the world through rose-colored glasses, no problem.

So wear a hat with a brim to shade your eyes, and don those stylish shades to have safe fun in the sun!

DR. KEMP has been practicing

Ophthalmology in Waxahachie for almost 30 years. He is a founding partner of Surgery Center of Waxahachie, where he currently serves as medical director.

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MEDICAL { HEALTH }

MIND YOUR BRAIN

BY IZAMAR LOREDO

When it comes to being healthy, the first things that come to mind usually center around being physically fit. But as important as that is, we mustn’t forget about the one organ that makes it all possible: the brain.

NEUROBICS If you are right-handed, try washing your car or brushing your teeth with your left hand. Changing up habits as simple as these will keep your brain on edge and working well. Switching things up can be as easy as sitting in a different spot at the dinner table than you’re used to, or parking in a different parking spot at the office.

Learning a new hobby or branching out and trying something you’ve never done before, such as a pottery or yoga class, are not only emotionally fulfilling, but also help the brain grow and develop.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT “Don’t eat anything your great-grandmother wouldn’t recognize as food,” writes Michael Pollan, author of “In Defense of Food: An Eater’s Manifesto.”

While this sounds good, it is often impossible in this fast-paced world of busy schedules and easily accessible fast-food. Eating healthy foods, however, can help maintain weight and lower risk of memory disorders. When dining at home, go for the deeper green and orange vegetables, which contain healthy amounts of omega-3 fatty acids. Eating fish such as Salmon at least once a week can fulfill this tremendously beneficial omega-3 requirement. Research also shows daily moderate consumption of wine to be good for the heart (and therefore the brain), and indicates it as a common habit among some of the world’s healthiest and longest-living cultures.

CEREBRAL STIMULATION A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2003 found that people participating in activities such as reading, dancing and playing board games or musical instruments were 63 percent less likely to be diagnosed with dementia. Social activities with friends and family can help enhance your mood and stave off dementia by reducing stress levels and maintaining healthy connections among brain cells.

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MEDICAL { HEALTH } MIND YOUR BRAIN CONT.

MORE THAN A GAME Puzzle games such as crosswords and Sudoku have been proven to help keep the brain sharp and healthy. According to research, such games provide a â&#x20AC;&#x153;workoutâ&#x20AC;? for the brain that reduces memory deterioration and enhances concentration. Better yet, these puzzles can be found anywhere, from the pages of Ellis County Living Magazine to electronic versions online. Timed versions force the brain to think more quickly and logically.

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LOVE YOUR LOBES Taking care of our bodies is also vital for brain health. Getting a good amount of sleep at night can make a world of difference, as can eating at appropriate times of the day, lowering stress and keeping up with medical care. Staying away from destructive habits and taking care of your body are the most vital ways to keep the brain healthy.

MIND YOUR BODY Working out the brain alone is not enough. Good old fashioned exercise is the easiest way to maintain a healthy body and mind. According to an article in the Huffington Post, exercise increases daily intellectual performance and lowers risk for dementia by up to 38 percent in some studies. Exercise also helps increase blood flow to the brain and reduces the risk of heart attack, stroke and diabetes. No time to hit the gym? Even opting for stairs instead of the elevator at work can be beneficial. Just 30 minutes of physical activity a day is enough to keep your mind and body healthy and stimulated.

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.

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MEDICAL

BY NORMA JEAN FUELBERTH, M.D.

July is CORD BLOOD AWARENESS month, a perfect time to learn more about how the umbilical cord could give life even after your baby is born.

Cord blood is the small amount of blood in the umbilical cord and placenta that remains after an infant’s cord is cut. Typically, this blood and remaining portion of cord are discarded after the birth. However, cord blood has been proven to be an invaluable source of unique stem cells and is currently being used to treat nearly 80 different lifethreatening diseases. Cord blood and cord tissue, through their regenerative properties, are also showing potential for treating conditions that have no cure today, such as juvenile diabetes, spinal or brain injury and hearing loss.

and expectant families. CBR is the only bank that will store both umbilical cord blood and umbilical cord tissue. When dealing with sibling/related transplant medicine, there appears to be a higher survival with your family’s own cord blood - approximately 63 percent with family-banked cord blood vs.

29 percent from a public bank. This does not include future potential usages.

It is not very likely that any one person will need to use stem cells. There is a 1 in 217 chance that a stem cell transplant will be required in any one individual’s life span by age 70. The odds of requiring stem cells before age 21 are only 1 in 2,700. But this does not include family-related requirements or future usages. Since stem cells should remain useful indefinitely, they may be used to treat diseases and injuries decades from now.

THE CBR HAS SAVED CORD BLOOD FROM MORE THAN 325,000 INFANTS.

A medical provider can collect cord blood from most healthy mothers before the placenta is discarded. Your options are to store, donate or discard that blood. It is free to donate cord blood to the Cord Blood Registry, but there is a fee for private storage.

The time to discuss your desires for saving cord blood is BEFORE delivery. The collection kits for each storage facility vary, so the decision must be made early to ensure the right collection kit is available. Your medical provider can help you make the decision that is right for you.

The Cord Blood Registry is one of the largest, most experienced cord blood banks and is the current #1 choice of Ob/Gyns

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The CBR has saved cord blood from more than 325,000 infants, and there are multiple private banks as well.

In Ellis County, the number of actual private cord blood/tissue banks is extremely low, which may be due to the actual cost of private banking and storage. The initial processing fee may be hundreds to thousands of dollars, with an annual storage fee of approximately $125. There is NO fee to donate!

The more research that is done on cord blood and cord tissue, the more promising it appears. Advocates strongly feel that by not saving a baby’s cord blood/tissue, a person may be passing up the best medical treatment option for tomorrow.

Please discuss with your health care provider your decision for cord blood/tissue banking!

Dr. Fuelberth is a gynecologist working out of Baylor Surgicare of Ennis and Ennis Regional hospital. She has been practicing for 25 years.

Donating cord blood is FREE, easy and could save a life.

REMEMBER: The decision must be made as early as possible to ensure proper materials are available. Talk with your doctor or visit these websites to learn more:

South Texas Blood & Tissue Center:

www.bloodntissue.org

National Marrow Donor Program

www.marrow.org (click on Get Involved)

Interested in banking, but worried about the added expense? Create a cord blood registry and ask friends and family to donate.

Visit www.cbrgiftregistry.com to register.

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MEDICAL MEDICAL

A story about an often misunderstood disorder, and why one mother’s proudest moment was the first time her daughter got in trouble at school.

BY KATHRYN KEMP

Shannon Samples and her husband could tell their daughter, Taylor, wasn’t like other children by the time she was just six weeks old. By two-and-a-half, Taylor had stopped communicating with anyone other than her parents.

“Once, she was at her grandmother’s house and her grandmother rolled over her finger in a rocking chair. Taylor couldn’t scream and didn’t even tell me about it until I asked about her swollen fingers,” Shannon said.

Eventually, Taylor would be diagnosed with selective mutism, a social-communication anxiety disorder often mistaken for severe shyness or refusal to speak. With a prevalence rate of 7.1 in 1000 (higher than autism’s 5 in 10 rate), more than 200 children in Ellis County schools alone may be experiencing it. Left alone, selective mutism could cause major setbacks in everyday functioning and serious damage for a person’s entire life.

“Negative labeling by teachers and school administrators can set the tone for how these children are viewed for many years to come,” Shannon said, noting that children with selective mutism are often mistaken for being difficult or manipulative.

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fourth edition, diagnostic criteria are: • Consistent failure to speak in specific situations (in which there is an expectation for speaking, e.g., at school) despite speaking in other situations.

• The disturbance interferes with educational or occupational achievement or with social communication.

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• The duration of the disturbance is at least 1 month (not limited to the first month of school) • The failure to speak is not due to a lack of knowledge of, or comfort with, the spoken language required in the social situation.

• The disturbance is not better accounted for by a communication disorder, e.g. stuttering, and does not occur exclusively during the course of a pervasive developmental disorder, schizophrenia, or other psychotic disorder.

Commonly believed to be hereditary, characteristics of selective mutism include: avoiding eye contact, fidgeting or freezing, gesturing instead of speaking, limiting nonverbal participation and avoiding activities requiring speech/performance. Coexisting anxiety disorders could also be evident.

Sally Goddard, director of the Institute of Neuro-Psychology, relates selective mutism to primitive neuro-reflexes that would normally self-extinguish but have not. Like a deer in the headlights, a child with such severe anxiety may become so overwhelmed by a social situation they shut down altogether.

Taylor’s preschool teachers never heard her voice. A formal school evaluation stated: “Even when asked to do tasks well within her ability, she sometimes does not comply.”

“I felt trapped because nobody understood.

I didn’t know how to deal with it. I felt like it was never going to end,” Taylor said.

Imagine, Shannon said, facing your biggest fear (spiders, lightening, flying, etc.) almost every day of your life.

Taylor’s first school interaction came in kindergarten, when she finally whispered to the teacher. By the end of that year, Taylor even had a couple of friends. After a slight regression in the beginning of first grade, a hesitant decision by her parents to start Taylor on medication changed things.

“She is much more comfortable. I think she really is learning more just because she is not so focused on her anxiety,” one teacher told Shannon a few weeks after medication began.

A majority of selective mutism children Shannon comes in contact with (including Taylor) are also affected by undiagnosed sensory integration disorder, a condition disrupting the brain’s ability to properly take in and process sensory information (sights, sounds, touches, etc.). Shannon, who is studying occupational therapy at Navarro Junior College in Corsicana, said this inability to perform certain tasks normally could be a root of the anxiety, and occupational therapy can help.

Though Taylor began occupational therapy in the second grade, the different approach therapists started in August 2011 has made the most difference. Since then, Taylor has read aloud in class, participated in gym class, been successful in sports she previously avoided, and even decided to come off of her medication. For Taylor, learning to do something as simple as throw a ball makes a big difference.

“Therapy boosts my confidence a lot,” she said. “When I went there, I couldn’t hit the baseball. A couple weeks later, I could and I could hit it really hard.”

Recently, Shannon said she was ecstatic to hear that Taylor got in trouble at school for talking too much. “It was the proudest day of my life.”

The goal of therapy, Shannon said, should be to increase selfesteem and confidence and to educate the child on the disorder, providing possible coping strategies without pressuring them to speak. While it should not be used alone, medication can help.

Throughout the years, Taylor has been mislabeled as defiant and manipulative, her self-esteem has plummeted and she has developed learning disabilities. Shannon is happy to report that her daughter, now 13, has overcome her struggle with selective mutism and will even attend Waxahachie Global High next school year.

In March, Taylor decided she was ready to stand in front of her mother’s class while Shannon gave a presentation on selective mutism. She then participated as her therapist demonstrated some of the exercises Taylor uses, and even answered questions asked by the class. Without therapy, her parents, or her best friend at school, Cameron, Taylor said she is sure she would not have been able to make it this far.

For Taylor, learning to speak out means helping others who may be misunderstood and maybe one day writing a book. For now, she’s content enjoying her everyday successes, especially in her hobby of choice: Motocross.

“I realize I’m doing good with a lot of stuff and I try to always think about my successes rather than the things I still need to work on,” Taylor said.

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I see a person; a little person inside of me, a new me, trying to break free of this trap. And this little person always is trying no matter what, but every time this little person was so close to breaking free and seeing light, this little person falls back into the trap of shyness, low confidence and anxiety. But there’s a purpose this little person is trying to do, to never quit, to never stop, to never give up....breaking free has been the cry of my soul as long as I can remember.

- Taylor Samples

Taylor, age 13, interacting with a class full of strangers in March 2012 as her mother discusses selective mutism.

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MEDICAL

DIET &

DEPRESSION

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Studies show some important links between diet and depression. One symptom of depression is a change in appetite. If we lose our appetite, we jeopardize our ability to obtain important nutrients our brain needs to combat depression.

Which types of foods help depression?

One is protein. Our brain requires protein to make amino acids. For example, tryptophan, found in turkey, nuts, and dairy, is what the brain uses to make serotonin. We know that depressed patients, especially those who are suicidal, are low in serotonin. Tryptophan is believed to be a natural relaxant, reducing depression and anxiety.

Our brain needs phenylalanine, found in most proteins, to make norepinephrine.

Increased norepinephrine has been found to decrease depressive symptoms.

Diets rich in omega-3â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, found in oily fish and flaxseed, are said to reduce depression. In addition to mood, omega-3â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s have also been found to impact behavior and mental function.

Conversely, some foods are known to exacerbate depression. Excessive alco-

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hol consumption over a period of time, for example, can lead to vitamin deficiencies that can intensify depression symptoms. Alcohol also depresses the central nervous system. Although one or two drinks can help people to relax, drink too much and you may find yourself feeling sad.

Caffeine can have a negative impact on mood, causing insomnia, which is linked to depression. It can also increase anxiety.

You have probably heard that foods containing sugar cause us to feel better.

However, sugar is unhealthy for many reasons (weight gain, cavities, etc.) and only gives a temporary boost, leaving us craving more. So it is important to eat complex carbohydrates, such as those found in fruits, rather than the simple carbohydrates found in candy and white flour. Complex carbohydrates are found in legumes, starchy vegetables and whole grains, and help us feel calm. Additionally, some people overeat carbohydrates, which can lead to weight gain and self-esteem issues.

Vitamins are important. B1 is necessary for nerve cell function and energy.

B6 helps maintain hormone balance.

Vitamin C increases immune system function. Evidence suggests depressed people are often deficient in folic acid, B6 and B12.

Some research suggests that depression is related to an overly sensitive immune system response. Antioxidants such as vitamins C and E, beta-carotene and selenium are helpful here.

Overall, research suggests that the best diet to decrease depression symptoms should include complex carbohydrates, reduced calories (unless you are underweight), less saturated fat, low amounts of sugar (less than 10% of diet) and plenty of fruits and vegetables, especially those that are organic and locally grown (they are likely to contain more micronutrients, which help the brain send messages).

Research is not saying a proper diet will prevent depression, but the wrong foods can make it worse, while the right foods may help us feel better.

DR. DONALDSON

is a clinical psychologist practicing in Waxahachie. She can be contacted at donaldsonpsyd@aol.com or by visiting donaldsonwellnesscenter.com.

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MEDICAL

Making Every

Shot Count

SUBMITTED BY BAYLOR OF WAXAHACHIE

You’ve bought the new clothes. You’ve bought the pens, pencils, rulers, binders and books. You’ve dusted off the old backpack and lunch box. So, ready for the first day of school? Not quite.

Each year, one of the back-to-school rituals families go through is getting the kids their childhood immunizations.

But for some Ellis County children, receiving state-mandated shots is not as simple as dropping by the pediatrician or family physician. For many parents, it’s the biggest expense faced when preparing their youngsters for the classroom.

But for the past decade, the Childhood Immunization Clinic – a joint effort between Baylor Medical Center at Waxahachie, Texas Vaccines for Children and Waxahachie ISD school nurses – has provided them for free.

“There’s no health department office in Ellis County, which is who would normally administer the shots for free,” explains Kris Rencher, RN, Finley Junior High School nurse, part-time Baylor Waxahachie nurse and head of the free clinic. “The meningitis shot alone – which colleges are now requiring incoming freshman to have – costs $150 to $300.”

Even without the meningitis shot, some estimates put the lifetime cost of required vaccinations for children at nearly $1,200.

Before the Childhood Immunization Clinic opened its doors, Ellis County had one of the lowest childhood immunization rates in the state, according to Teri Jackson, RNC, longtime Baylor Waxahachie nurse and one of the clinic’s founders.

“The county vaccination rate was about 48 percent when we first started,” explains Jackson. “Now it’s holding steady at around 98 percent I believe.”

The clinic, open from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. one Thursday a month, operates out of the Baylor Institute of Rehabilitation at Waxahachie facility, located at 507 N. Hwy 77, suite 704. Rencher occasionally takes the clinic on the road to other Ellis County communities, including Palmer, Red Oak, Midlothian and Avalon.

Immunizations provided are: hepatitis A and B; diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis; Hib; pneumococcal; polio; measles, mumps, rubella; varicella; and meningitis. In October, the clinic offers free flu vaccinations for students as well.

(As of Jan. 1, 2012, children with private, commercial insurance covering vaccines are no longer eligible for vaccines under the Texas Vaccines for Children Program (TVFC), and should be referred to their physician.)

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S T O H S D E R I U Q E R Under Texas state law, evidence of the following vaccinations is required by grade level before admittance. Exemptions may be made if a statement written by a physician is submitted stating that the vaccine would be medically harmful to the health and well-being of the child or household member, or for matters of conscience (religious belief). The law does not exempt students simply based on inconvenience to the parent.

DIPTHERIA/TETANUS/ PERTUSSIS (DTAP/DTP/DT/TD/TDAP)

K-6th: Five doses recommended; four meet the requirement. One dose must have been received on or after the fourth birthday.

7th: One dose of tetanus-containing vaccine required if five or more years have passed since last dose.

8th-12th: One dose of tetanus-containing vaccine required if 10 years have passed since last dose. (Td is acceptable if a medical condition or factor deems pertussis vaccination unsafe for the child).

POLIO (IPV)

K-12th: Four doses recommended; three meet the requirement. One dose must have been received on or after the fourth birthday.

MEASLES, MUMPS, AND RUBELLA (MMR)

Confirmation of immunity, obtained through blood work, is acceptable in place of vaccination.

K-12th: Two doses required. The first dose must

be received on or after the first birthday.

HEPATITIS B

Confirmation of immunity, obtained through blood work, is acceptable in place of vaccination.

K-12th: Three doses required.

Students 11-15 years of age: Two doses acceptable if the adult hepatitis B vaccine (Recombivax) was received.

VARICELLA (CHICKENPOX) Written verification including a date of when the student had chickenpox is acceptable.

K-3rd: Two doses 4th-6th: One dose 7th-10th: Two doses 11th-12th: One dose

MENINGOCOCCAL

7th-10th: One dose A booster is recommended between 16 and 18 years of age if the first dose was received between 13 and 15 ears of age.

HEPATITIS A

K-3rd: Two doses. First dose on or after first birthday.

Students entering a state college: Texas Senate Bill 1107 states: “All students entering a public, private, or independent institution of higher education in Texas must provide documentation that they have had a meningococcal (bacterial meningitis) vaccine or “booster” dose during the five year period prior to but no later than ten days before the first day of the first semester they will enter that institution.”

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CINDY BURCH

SIMPLY SONOMA For ten years in a row, Andrew and I spent a week in the California wine country. We knew our way around Napa Valley pretty well, driving above the fog up Spring Mountain Road to Cain Vineyards and through the forests of Mt. Veeder to the beautiful Hess Winery. Other days, we traveled along Napa’s Silverado Trail, sampling from the barrels of Stags Leap, Silverado and Clos Du Val. After a couple of days, we would venture over to the laidback county of Sonoma and wind our way through the Russian River Valley. We built a nice collection with big bold cabs, crisp chardonnays and jammy zinfandels. As Napa started producing world-class wines, they began building lavish wineries and charging a fee in their ritzy new tasting rooms. Don’t get me wrong, we loved visiting Napa, but it seemed as if it was becoming a Vegas-style destination instead of the quaint, relaxed Valley we had grown to love.

We worried the Sonoma winemakers would soon follow suit.

We stopped going to the wine country and started exploring the well-priced wines of Spain, Chile and Australia, but when flights to San Francisco dropped to $200 last summer, we decided to head back and see if Sonoma was staying true to its roots.

Little more than an hour after a Sunday morning drive over San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge, we sat down to brunch at The Girl & The Fig in Sonoma Plaza. Before leaving, our waiter wrapped up some local artisan cheese for us. We grabbed a baguette in the bakery a few doors down and headed up Highway 12 for an afternoon of wine tasting. You get the sense that in Sonoma, life is lived the way it was meant to be. Sonoma is full of winemakers, restaurateurs, farmers and bakers, all living off the land, helping to create a kind of DIY gourmet paradise. Overall, Sonoma has kept its original low-key charm.

Some wineries are now charging a nominal

tasting fee, but are happy to refund it if you buy a bottle of their wine.

Our second day, we continued north through Santa Rosa into the Russian River Valley, considered among the top appellations for growing and bottling cool-climate grapes.

Sitting high on a ridge top, among native redwood, oak and madrone trees, is the Gary Farrell Winery, where their specialty is turning out top chardonnay and world class pinot noir. The setting is nothing short of magical as you taste their wines high above the tree tops and listen to the winemaker explain how one wine goes through malolactic fermentation and the other ages in stainless steel barrels.

From there, we worked our way back down to Rochioli Vineyards and Winery, which has earned a reputation as one of Sonoma County’s finest wineries. Situated in a pastoral setting overlooking seductive vineyards and a rose garden, Rochioli Winery’s tasting room is classy yet unpretentious. The small, charming space has a rotating art gallery devoted to local artists.

Heading farther north up US-101, we were happy to find that the town square of Healdsburg has emerged into a cosmopolitan hub with a mix of chic hotels, creative chefs and stylish boutiques. Charlie Palmer’s restaurant in Hotel Healdsburg is a great example of drawing from the region’s natural ingredients to create some of Sonoma’s five-star dining.

The restaurant also waives their corkage fee if you want to bring in your own bottle from a Sonoma winery. As we headed out of town, we stopped to visit zin master Doug Nalle.

Nalle Winery is still making incredible wines inside a makeshift bunker covered with fresh rosemary. Instead of a fancy tasting room, they have a basketball court at one end and

a few folding tables serving as their front counter. There are plenty of charming familyowned wineries open daily to the public.

On our last day, we headed west to Dry Creek, a beautiful valley with just under 9,000 vineyard acres. We enjoyed visiting some old favorites like Fritz Winery, Lambert Bridge and Ridge/Lytton Springs Winery. We ordered a picnic lunch at the Dry Creek General Store before pulling up to a wine cave tucked into a steep hillside, called Bella Vineyards. After tasting a flight of their zinfandels, we enjoyed our picnic on Bella’s beautiful grounds. Another charming discovery was Preston of Dry Creek. Once there, it was clear this wasn’t just any winery and tasting room. Preston is a working farm with organic vegetables and freshly baked bread they sample with their homemade olive oil and goat cheese. It’s a true example of how these Northern California farmers use their land as a source of inspiration, still paying homage to its rural Sonoma roots.

Sonoma has managed to flourish, producing as fine of wines as Napa without losing its down home charm. We had a wonderful adventure and realized how much we miss our wine country excursions. For wine and cheese makers, chefs, farmers and idealists of all kinds, Sonoma is a place for growth and creation, for cooking and eating, for life’s essential pleasures. For travelers, it’s a place to unwind, enjoy the culinary wonders and experience life as it should be - simple, laidback and true to its roots.

Cindy Burch

Cindy Burch and her husband, Andrew, own and operate The Dove’s Nest Restaurant and Gifts in historic downtown Waxahachie. Cindy’s cookbook, “The Dove’s Nest Restaurant: New American Recipes From a Historic Texas Town,” has sold more than 20,000 copies.

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