Celina, TX May 2024

The Ladies’ Issue

THE WOMEN OF CELINA

Our Ladies' Issue is always an honor to create as we highlight the talented and influential women in our community. We can not wait for you to meet and be inspired by a few of these special ladies.

I don’t know about you, but I love any opportunity to recognize the women in my life who just make life more rich and beautiful. Our mothers and daughters are some of the most influential women in our lives. May 12th is Mother's Day, and all eyes are on Mom. In this issue, we introduce you to a few local ladies and their mothers.

While it’s always important to shop local and support our area businesses, this month is the perfect time to patronize businesses owned by women in our communities. That’s one of my favorite parts of this role - connecting with and championing the best of the best when it comes to Celina's women. Meet our female partners on page 46 that are local movers, shakers, creators and makers. We take a moment to celebrate these Leading Ladies in Business

May is also when Spring is in full bloom. We learn about partner Complete Landsculpture and have a chance to see some of their curb appeal creations. We also check in with Trisha Puente, owner of Humble Home Designs, to see the impact she is making on the interior of our homes and offices.

Let's take time to honor and cherish the important women in our lives this month. The women who are being who and what they want.

"I encourage women to step up. Don't wait for somebody to ask you."

- Reese Witherspoon

Happy May, ladies. Thank you for all you do!

BARBARA IRELAND, PUBLISHER @CELINA.LIFESTYLE

May 2024

PUBLISHER

Barbara Ireland | Barbara.Ireland@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Danielle Poche | Danielle.Poche@citylifestyle.com

AREA DIRECTOR

Roger Ireland | Roger.Ireland@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Jennifer Haveman

Jennifer.Haveman@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Katelyn Briscoe, Angela Broockerd, Niki Carbajal, Christine Clark, Jennifer Haveman, Amy Young

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Nicole Wierick, Melissa Hatcher, Katelyn Briscoe, Janie Jones

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Corbett Howard of Lamar National Bank officiates wedding of branch manager, Janet Richards. 2: Friends enjoy a night of fundraising at the Donkeys and Diamonds Gala. 3: Rodeo Celina donates scholarship money to the Celina Education Foundation. 4: Methodist Health System at the Celina EDC Business Roundtable sponsored in part by Celina Lifestyle. 5: Celina Runners enjoy a beverage after finishing the Shamrock Race at The Little Wooden Penguin. 6: The Celina Police Department honors Women’s History Month. 7: Rex Glendenning presents the Tom Landry Award to Coach G.A. Moore at the FCA Banquet.

CELINA PD

FASHION | JEWELRY | BAGS | HOME DECOR | SHOES

First State Bank celebrates Texas Independence Day. 2: Fun with

You focus on healing. We take care of everything else.

At Snellings Law, we’re more than just lawyers - we’re your neighbors and friends. We live and work in the community, ensuring personal treatment for every client. Trust us to guide you through the personal injury process with care, ensuring top medical care and a fair resolution.

If you or a loved one have suffered a serious or catastrophic injury due to the negligence of someone else, we can help you recover past and future damages, including:

In honor of National Military Awareness month, we are featuring a few of our podcast guests who have served our country in the military. From being a first responder at ground zero of 9/11, to becoming an Army Ranger, to graduating West Point — these episodes are packed with insightful stories. At Snellings Law, we’d like to thank active serviceman and veterans for the sacrifices they make for our country.

James Creedon

John Powell

David Seals

LAMAR NATIONAL BANK CELINA WEDDING

Janet Richards, Branch Manager of Lamar National Bank in Celina, married Mike Gann on March 1st, 2024. Janet and Mike were married at Lamar National Bank located at  110 S. Preston Rd in Celina, Texas. The wedding was officiated by Market President, Corbett Howard. "Relationship Banking At Its Best", the bank's slogan, seems fitting for this hometown love story. Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Gann!

Photography by Lamar National Bank

like home at Sundance Celina conveniently located at 3100 W. Punk Carter Parkway.  Offering 1, 2, and 3 bedroom townhome-style apartment homes in a quiet residential area, Sundance Celina includes private, attached garages, pool with sundeck, fully-equipped fitness center, abundant green space and is also pet-friendly! Schedule a tour at (844) 708.4551 or visit SundanceCelina.com

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NEW PARTNER DAY STAR LANDSCAPES ASSISTING CLIENTS FOR 40 YEARS

Day Star Landscapes' staffers have put their signature on North Texas landscapes since 1984, cultivating the installation of new-build design elements, using healthy trees, robust plants and vibrant flowers. The roots of their business, however, have always been about people, with their teams built on a foundation of respect, trust and honesty. Services cover hardscapes, sod, tree care, shrub, mulch and stoneware installation. Check DayStarLandscapes. com for their photo gallery of examples.

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UNWIND IN A HOME THAT WON’T TIE YOU DOWN

Enjoy rental freedom and residential stability in an apartment that truly feels like home. Offering spacious and stylish living, complete with contemporary comforts including:

Private, Attached Garages

Dazzling Pool & Sundeck

Pet Friendly Community Fully-Equipped Fitness Center

Spacious and Stylish Homes

Abundant

Photography by Sundance Celina

LYNETTE SANDIDGE & CINDY PETERS

REAL FRIENDS IN REAL ESTATE

ARTICLE

BY CHRISTINE CLARK

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MELISSA HATCHER

Cindy Peters

photo credit Holly Farrow

Lynette Sandidge

With the explosive growth North Texans have experienced over the last several years, it would be logical to assume that being a realtor in one of the hottest markets in the region would be a walk in the park. Nothing could be further from the truth. The intricacies of ever-changing laws, new developments coming online every month and other competing interests challenge even the most seasoned professionals. Further complicating matters is the saturation of the market with new, un-tested agents who lack an understanding of how to navigate Celina’s constantly evolving landscape.

Fortunately, Celina is blessed to have Lynette Sandidge and Cindy Peters, both with Compass Real Estate. Having met over a decade ago through a mutual friend at a former agency, their friendship grew and has blossomed into a formidable, albeit informal partnership. Their similar work ethic, commitment to the success of their clients, an eye for hidden opportunity as well as a passion for our community made collaboration an obvious choice. Their complementary focus creates a one-of-a-kind opportunity for anyone buying or selling properties in the area.

While both women are experts in both residential and land transactions, Lynette’s background growing up on a farm in West Texas gives her an unparalleled perspective for land. Cindy has successfully established herself as a one-ofa-kind resource for first time buyers and those seeking residential properties downtown and in the nearby communities.

Their shared philosophy is “business is not about one’s own success or failure, but how successful we help make each other.”

The harmony of these strengths and depth in both listings and buyers has enabled them to service all sides of the real estate market.

As a testament to their working relationship, you will often find Lynette and Cindy co-listing luxury properties, showing each other’s listings, helping with client concerns and needs as well as covering for each other when out of town. While many agents can become isolated and overwhelmed by the constant grind of administration, Lynette and Cindy keep each other engaged, frequently brainstorming and bouncing ideas off each other. Cindy shared that “the best collaborations are those that spur you on to do better.” This relentless pursuit of excellence has most recently seen them combine their home staging inventory, giving each access to more resources and allowing them to stage listings together.

Success in the market is not simply hustle, Lynette and Cindy shared that working with an expert who is dialed into the community is equally important. Spending time with local leaders and building relationships with the city, investors, builders and sellers is key to delivering differentiating value. Being an integral part of the community is a

full-time job in and of itself! Together they are active members of the Celina Chamber of Commerce, Celina Ladies of Influence, Helping Hands of Celina and the Donkey Rescue. They sponsor events like the Celina Cajun Fest, Splash and Blast and Christmas on the Square. Lynette is also a founding sponsor of the newly launched Rodeo Celina. This level of engagement at all levels means that if Cindy does not know someone, Lynette probably does, and vice versa.

As first-rate professionals who set the standard in real estate volume and quality, it would be easy to rest on their business laurels. Unsatisfied with that level of success alone, these women set the standard for mentoring and supporting other women in our community. Their shared philosophy is “business is not about one's own success or failure, but how successful we help make each other.” In such an incredibly competitive business, finding two women who support, encourage, and work together without a formal partnership or teaming agreement is truly unique.

Lynette.Sandidge@compass.com

Cindy.Peters@compass.com

MOTHERS & DAUGHTERS

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY

We celebrate Mother’s Day in recognition of mothers, maternal bonds and matriarchs of the family. In celebration, we talked to four special local mom and daughter duos. We wish all of the moms out there a beautiful Mother’s Day!

PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICOLE WIERICK

Trice Whitaker & Leah Bain

WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOUR MOM EVER GAVE YOU?

Leah: Always have “garage sale money” hidden somewhere in my purse and money in a savings account.  My mom has always loved estate sales, so she would stop and see what unexpected things she “couldn’t live without.” Her hidden money came in handy many times.

WHAT IS ONE THING YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR MOM?

Leah: She’s always down for a good time! She will go anywhere and do (almost) anything I ask her to. She will throw on a hat, get in the car, and “be there in 5” as she says! She will also do anything for my son, Mason. She loves him as fiercely as she loves me.

TELL ME SOMETHING THAT YOU DO THAT REMINDS YOU OF YOUR MOM.

Leah: My laugh! I have always had a distinct laugh and people have said the same about my mom. When the two of us are in a room laughing together….LOOK OUT…or plug your ears!

TELL US ABOUT SOME THINGS YOU ENJOY DOING TOGETHER.

We love to travel, shop, and attend all of the fantastic Celina events together.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MEMORY TOGETHER?

Trice: One of my favorite memories is spending my 50th birthday with Leah in Paris. Teenage Leah was a work of art, sweet, snarky, and full of life and adventure. She is still all of those things rolled into adulthood with her caring nature for people and animals, always wanting to rescue one more.

I enjoy being the mother of a Spitfire, there is never a dull moment when Leah is around. Fun energetic and always on the go, that’s my baby girl.

WHAT IS ONE THING YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR DAUGHTER?

Cathy: I love how much fun she is to be around. She lights up and is such a great person. There are way too many things that I love about Lauren. She truly is our world. As her Mom I love her dearly but as she has become this amazing person I love the way others love her too. She is as genuine as you see!

WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOUR MOM EVER GAVE YOU?

Lauren: My mom always encouraged me to be comfortable being uncomfortable. She was always pushing me out of my comfort zone to do things I was scared of or did not really want to do. It is the best lesson she has ever taught me and I am extremely grateful for it.

TELL ME SOMETHING THAT YOU DO THAT REMINDS YOU OF YOUR MOM.

Lauren: One of the many things my mom and I have in common is our love for a party! We love to plan little parties for our friends and families. Growing up she always threw parties it felt like every other month and that is definitely something I have taken after! We are all about any themed event!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MEMORY TOGETHER?

We planned a wedding last year and honestly for both of us spending quality time together going to all the appointments and the planning process is something we will both always cherish.

Cathy Bell & Lauren Bell Heinz

“She was always pushing me out of my comfort zone to do things I was scared of or did not really want to do. It is the best lesson she has ever taught me and I am extremely grateful for it.” -Lauren Bell Heinz

photo credit Tracy Autem

Vicki Draper & Dana Draper

WHAT TRAIT(S) DID YOUR DAUGHTER INHERIT FROM YOU?

Vicki: Giving back to the community is one trait she inherited from me as well as her love for family and dedication to being a mom.

WHAT IS ONE THING YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR DAUGHTER?

Vicki: Her heart, how she loves unconditionally.  That is my favorite thing about my daughter.  One lesson taught in life is she has learned to look at people’s heart and not the color of their skin, handicap or social status.

WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOUR MOM EVER GAVE YOU?

Dana: If you put your faith in people, you will always be disappointed, but if you put your faith in God, he will never disappoint you.

WHAT IS ONE THING YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR MOM?

Dana: There are so many things I love about her, but my favorite would be her unfaltering love. I know I can always go to her house and feel like I’m home.

TELL US ABOUT SOME THINGS YOU ENJOY DOING TOGETHER.

Dana: We enjoy shopping together. It is always an adventure. My mom seems to think she is often smaller than she actually is and tends to get “stuck” in clothing at times.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MEMORY TOGETHER?

Vicki: The birth of my granddaughter Rylee and praying I would be a good example for her.  I prayed that through God we would be the best parents and grandparents He wanted us to be to mold her into the wonderful young lady she is today.

Dana: My favorite memory was when I became a mom.  My mom was by my side the entire time.  It was a very special moment to share with her.  At that point, I fully understood the love you have for a child, which is the love she has for me.

WHAT TRAIT(S) DID YOUR DAUGHTER INHERIT FROM YOU?

Mary: Compassion and thoughtfulness towards others.

WHAT WAS YOUR DAUGHTER LIKE AS A CHILD?

Mary: She was independent, strong willed and was a very good sister to her younger brother.

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF MOTHERHOOD?

Mary: Seeing all of their accomplishments and watching my kids turn into the adults they are today.

WHAT IS ONE THING YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR DAUGHTER?

Seeing her be a mother to her three kids!

WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOUR MOM EVER GAVE YOU?

Rebecca: To put yourself in other people’s shoes and not give up once you have started something. I hope to instill these things in my kiddos too! And to shop at Marshalls (we still do together!)

WHAT IS ONE THING YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR MOM?

Rebecca: Her deep love for me and my family. It is never a conditional kind of love and I try to never take it for granted!

TELL ME SOMETHING THAT YOU DO THAT REMINDS YOU OF YOUR MOM.

Rebecca: We are both independent but also deeply love our people and we do it well.

TELL US ABOUT SOME THINGS YOU ENJOY DOING TOGETHER.

We love going to concerts, one of our favorite artists is Amos Lee who we actually got to see last month! We decided we have seen him at least ten times over the years and would go ten more times.

Mary McCauley & Rebecca Calvert

“Her deep love for me and my family. It is never a conditional kind of love and I try to never take it for granted!”

photo credit Wilder Rose Creative

GFWC FIDELIS INTER SE OF CELINA

ARTICLE BY NIKI CARBAJAL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY FIDELIS INTER SE OF CELINA

Community Improvement Through Volunteer Service

Senior Girls Tea

The General Federation of Women’s Clubs, with more than 60,000 members, is united in its dedication to volunteer community service. While diverse in age, interests, and outreach, all clubwomen are united by a desire to create positive change in their local communities and impact others globally. Celina has the privilege of “living the volunteer spirit” through the service organization, Fidelis Inter Se. Established in 1951, GFWC Fidelis Inter Se of Celina, clubwomen organized projects to support those in need - school children, nursing home residents, and the beautification of city parks. Those traditions set by the 13 charter members are carried on today through the service of 89 members dedicated to the 2023-2024 theme “ We grow together by loving and serving others”.

Current President Rosemary Talkington facilitates the club in its philanthropic efforts. The club meets nine months of the year and has guest speakers who represent that month’s mission. Fidelis Inter Se has hosted Helping Hands of Celina, packed food boxes with Gracebridge Food Bank, collected food donations and packed weekend food boxes with Lovepacs PCG, served at Hope’s Door, and partnered with MD Anderson, Shot@Life,  and St. Jude Children’s Hospital. These organizations represent just a small portion of the projects the clubwomen have supported through service hours.

The club’s only fundraiser is a Daddy Daughter Dance that is held each year in

February. Planned and hosted by Fidelis Inter Se since 1998, dads and father-figures have twirled their daughters around a themed dance floor in a Celina ISD elementary school creating life-long memories for both dad and child. The funds raised help support CISD high school senior scholarships,  contribute to the Texas Fellowship of Women’s Clubs scholarship fund, and aid in supporting scholarships for survivors of intimate partner abuse who wish to obtain a post-secondary education to help reshape their futures (Success for Survivors Scholarship).  All these initiatives go toward the goal of advocating for children locally and at the state level.

For many, the Daddy Daughter Dance is their first introduction to Fidelis Inter Se. However, according to current club Treasurer and long-time member, Fran Mask, there are many opportunities for clubwomen to serve the community:

• Place flags and evergreen wreaths on veteran headstones at both Celina cemeteries.

• Help build snack bags for the CISD adaptive athletes to enjoy during their event days.

• Assist the United Methodist Church of Celina with assembling backpacks of food for those experiencing food insecurity.

• Participate in the National Day of Service each September in a Community Service Program that helps solve food insecurity.

The Mother Daughter Tea is another popular community event that Fidelis Inter Se hosts. Designed to honor young women in

“We grow together by loving and serving others.”

their senior year of high school and their mothers, it is a free event for CISD students that creates opportunities for making lifelong memories through storytelling, special treats, and a time set aside to enjoy the lasts and firsts that a senior year brings.

Treasurer Mask says she enjoys all the projects FIS has been involved in. However, she loves and looks forward to the Christmas celebration the club hosts at Settlers Ridge Care Center in Celina. On a Sunday afternoon in December, they arrange for a Santa to make the rounds,  include cookies and punch for a treat, and deliver a holiday themed blanket to every resident. Occasionally, elementary students provide hand-drawn cards and club members bring their kids to sing carols along with the piano. According to Fran, “no one gains more from volunteering than the volunteer herself”.

Fran learned the spirit of volunteerism through family members who served as missionaries and from other family who served their local community. She values service and through the practical art of living out those values, her daughters Beth Hemby and Joy Rodgers have also learned to enjoy serving and are members of Fidelis Inter Se of Celina. Beth has participated as a clubwoman for more than 25 years and Joy, recently moved back to Texas, has been an active member for three years. This sort of Legacy Membership is a special and important part of the culture of Fidelis Inter Se of Celina. From the charter members to the present member role, generations of families have served locally and at the state level working to make a difference and an impact on the world.

Membership in General Federation of Women’s Clubs

Fidelis Inter Se of Celina can begin with any woman interested in bringing about positive change to community improvement locally and nationally. Potential members are nominated by current clubwomen and membership is open year-round. Members are required to commit to active involvement and a small dues investment. For more information on joining GFWC Fidelis Inter Se of Celina, contact President Rosemary Talkington at talkingtonr@gmail.com

Legacy Members include Mothers, daughters, aunts, sisters, and grandmothers serving together to better the community around them. Current Legacy Members include:

• Janet Calvert

• Valerie Carey

• Tara Cox

• Pat Granstaff

• Elizabeth Grumbles

• Janie Grumbles

• Beth Hemby

• Jane Huddleston

• Cyndy Hunn

• Kaye Jones

• Fran Mask

• Verna Lee Morris

• Katie Most

• Joy Rodgers

Wreaths Across America

CINCO DE MAYO

ARTICLE BY JENNIFER HAVEMAN

Cinco de Mayo, a celebration of Mexican heritage and pride, resonates deeply in communities across the United States. Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Mexican Army’s victory over the French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5,1862. While often mistaken for Mexico's Independence Day, Cinco de Mayo holds immense cultural significance. In Celina, Texas, this vibrant festival takes on a unique flavor, blending traditional Mexican customs with the warmth of Texan hospitality.

The first Cinco de Mayo celebration in Celina was held in 2008. Celina local, Dago Rodriguez, owner of Jimbo’s Pizza, had a dream to unite the community by sharing his own Mexican culture. He wanted to teach the folkloric Mexican dances to children in the community. Cinco de Mayo Celina is a community event, created for people. Dago’s dream was to leave a legacy by sharing customs from his culture and to support local students with scholarships.

Dago was greatly impacted by his community. He states, “When I was a kid and I was without parents, the teachers became my mentors and helped me with my education. I was able to go to college and become a teacher.” This experience inspired him to create the scholarship program to help others in the community that can’t afford to continue education. El Puente de Celina is a non profit organization, and all proceeds from the event go towards scholarships for Celina ISD. The event is free but the organization works hard with volunteers and in collaboration with the city of Celina to save on the expenses and give more towards scholarships.

Cinco de Mayo Celina is based on volunteers and sponsors; it’s a community event created by El Puente de Celina with the help of the volunteers and sponsors that are generous by giving towards scholarships. The event starts with a parade at 2pm where city officials are invited to participate, and the dancers are presented. Every year, the committee tries to bring new dances from different regions in Mexico, and every region has its own special costumes. This year, folkloric dances from Jalisco and Sinaloa will be featured. In addition to vendors, bands, dancers, and a DJ, the Lucha Libre show will be back this year!

In Celina, Texas, the Cinco de Mayo celebration is more than just a commemoration of a historical event; it's a celebration of identity, heritage, and community spirit. This is an event done with the support of the community for the community, and El Puente de Celina would like to invite everyone to come together and make it a great one.

Cinco de Mayo Celina May 4, 2024, starting at 2PM, Downtown Celina & The Square

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATELYN BRISCOE

EYE FOR DESIGN

Paving the Way for Women in Construction

The world of construction has traditionally been a man’s world. But, for Celina local and owner of Humble Home Designs, Trisha Puente, the construction field has become her new stomping ground. After starting her business, Trisha said she stumbled upon her work in construction through her work in interior design.

“I had a client that called me and wanted me to come do her kitchen. I had done some design work for her before, so I had just assumed I was going to decorate her kitchen,” Trisha said. “When I got there, she started to say, ‘Okay, I want new countertops, new cabinets, new backsplash...', I got really excited and decided that was a fun challenge and I wanted to do it.”

Through this unexpected step into new territory and by leaning on her husband and his construction experience, Trisha found an open doorway leading to a new opportunity to flex her talents and expand her skills.

“I did what I needed to do, and I brought my husband in with his knowledge. He's been in construction forever, so I was able to lean on him for the learning curve and the things that I didn’t know,” Trisha said. “I jumped on that, took off running, and have loved it ever since.”

What started as one project has now changed the shape and structure of her business.

“I’ve grown that side of the business quite a bit where it’s pretty much 50/50

with interior design and remodels and construction,” Trisha said. “So, I’ve got a really good crew that I’ve built up over the years, and I can rely on them a lot for help with the things that I don’t know: the in-depth construction side of the world.”

Mastering the art of construction as an addition to her list of services was already challenging, but the reality of being a woman in a male-dominated field added an extra layer to the struggle.

“It’s frustrating being a woman in this field because I think so many people have a hard time wrapping their head around the fact that I am capable of doing construction, project leading and project managing remodels because I AM a woman,” Trisha said. “So, that part of it’s hard.”

Women in the field of construction are so few and far between, Trisha says that she still has yet to work with other women in her field since dipping into construction 4 years ago.

“I have not yet [worked with other women in this field], but I told my husband just the other day, ‘Do you know how amazing it would be if I could get an all-female crew?’” Trisha said. “If I had a tile person that was a woman and someone that does paint, texture, drywall. I think that would be such a cool way to run the business: sort of a bucket list kind of dream that I’d like to try to find. I haven’t really worked with other women in the industry, but I would love to do that.”

TRISHA PUENTE

Trisha says women are needed in the industry because of what she and other women bring to it to make it better.

“I think one of the biggest things women, in general, [bring to the field] is attention to detail—the woman’s touch of how we see things,” Trisha said. “Myself, as a woman, [what I bring to construction] is the interior design—the fact that I have that background and can provide that, whereas a lot of contractors are like, ‘Okay, here’s how much it’ll cost to rip everything out and put it in new, but you’re on your own. Go find everything.’ It’s a bonus that I can help pick out things and help put together what your vision is as opposed to a lot of contractors that don’t offer that at all.”

While Trisha’s team is working on multiple projects around the DFW metroplex, Celina is where the heart of her business is.

“We moved from Frisco and decided we were going to raise our kids here and made it home,” Trisha said. “We love it here. It was important to connect our business to the town we were raising our family in and are well-established in. Although we work in lots of surrounding areas, Celina is definitely our main area of focus—our main clientele. It’s our home, so it's where we want to do most of our business.”

Since moving here and starting Humble Home Designs in 2015, the business has evolved and grown. Recently, Trisha’s team has been working on remodel and construction projects including a salon, laundry room and a several bathrooms. She also stays busy with design projects and she was thrilled to have the chance to decorate the new Lone Star Vision office in Celina (as seen in the photos).

“I would really love to get more people to be open to the idea of women in this field and trusting that we can do it,” Trisha said. “All the clients that I do have, I’m very grateful for because they don’t bat an eye or think twice about it. But, I feel like I don’t get calls a lot for that part of my business [construction, project management, and remodels] because I’m a woman, so it’s challenging.”

CELEBRATING

LEADING LADIES IN BUSINESS

Our Celina Lifestyle Partners

At Celina Lifestyle, we are blessed to know and partner with many women in business in our community.  This month, we celebrate the hard work of our female partners and their contributions to our city. Thank you for all you do!

• 1876 Country Club - Tasha Davis, Sandy Lewis

• 4 Hooves for Hearts - Becky Shewchuk

• Annie Jack - Rachel Baty

• Apricot Lane Boutique - Jennifer Nairn

• Buff City Soap Celina - Natalie Imhoff

• C3 Aesthetics & Wellness - Holly Potts

• Catherine Buzzetta Monforte, RealtorCatherine Sells Celina

• Celina Chamber of CommerceMelissa Cromwell (President)

• Celina Lifestyle - Barbara Ireland (Publisher/Owner)

• Centurion American - Tasha Davis

• Christian Brothers Automotive Celina - Jan Sampeck

• Cielo Beauty Bar - Marisa Sotomayor

• Cindy Peters, Realtor - Compass Real Estate

• Color Wonder Balloons - Meredith May

• Edit Your Brand - Lauren Thorsen

• Fidelity National Title - Dana Draper

• First State Bank Celina - Natasha Hickman, Roxanne Padgett

• Honeysuckle Rose Boutique - Lauren Bell

• House & Home Texas - Kathy Corey, Realtor

• Humble Home Designs - Trisha Puente

• Jill Smisek, Realtor - Jill Sells DFW

• Lamar National Bank Celina - Janet Gann (Branch Manager)

• Little Wooden Penguin - Katie Dunn

• Lori Vaden West, Realtor - Lori Vaden West Group, Coldwell Banker APEX Realtors

• Lynette Sandidge, Realtor - Sandidge Real Estate Group, Compass

• Media High Ground - Jill Parsons

• Melissa Hatcher Photography

• Nicole Wierick Photography

• Olivia Clarke Homes - Jennifer Johnson

• Preston Family Healthcare - Oleta Schranz

• REX Real Estate - Sherese Glendenning

• Righter Insurance - Debbie Righter

• Run Celina - Melissa Gresham

• Ruth Ann Robbins, Realtor - Keller Williams Realty

• Shades of Green Nursery + LandscapesRebecca Calvert, Mary McCauley

• Sis's Country Store - Epi Goldstein

• Strategic Wealth Advisor Team, Ameriprise Financial

- Tammie D. Walker, Lindsay Jones, Nicole Fry

• Sundance Celina - Katelyn Taylor, Morganne Womack

• Terramania - Traci Miller

• Texas Homes and Land - Coryann Johnson

• The Forge 1912 - Kristen Ethridge

• The UPS Store Celina - Debbie Hopkins

• The Wick - Kim Wickliffe

• Toasted Walnut Table and Market - Amy Hager, Audrea Weimer

• True Light Chiropractic - Dr. Kelsey Wood

• Valley Vines - Melody Samuelson

• Weisz Selection Outdoor Living SpecialistsHeather Weisz

LEADING LADIES IN BUSINESS PHOTO SHOOT -

Photographer:  Nicole Wierick, NicoleWierickPhotography.com

Venue and Wine:  Valley Vines, ValleyVines.net

Food:  The Wick, Facebook@TheWickCelina

PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICOLE WIERICK

The UPS Store Celina Community Spotlight

Our local neighborhoods are the heart of Celina. Andy “Hop” Hopkins, owner of The UPS Store, is highlighting one of many of Celina’s finest communities on a monthly basis.

COMMUNITY: HERITAGE

LOCATION: Located in central Celina, Heritage is only minutes away from schools, our Historic Downtown Square, and other retail options along Preston road.

OVERVIEW: Heritage is a classic master-planned community developed in 2002 to provide residents with a variety of lot sizes, extensive hike and bike trails, and an amenity center with ample park space and a pool. The neighborhood is well-loved by its residents as family-friendly and community-oriented, with many fun activities throughout the year to bring neighbors together.

EVENTS: Given an active neighborhood Facebook page, resident Trisha Puente of Humble Home Designs (www.facebook.com/humblehomedesignstips/) says that there is always something to do. From Bunco to cookie decorating parties, there is something always going on to bring people together.

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES: There are two playgrounds located in the neighborhood that, according to Run Celina founder and Heritage resident Melissa Gresham (http:// runcelina.com), allow families to spend lots of time enjoying outdoors walking, playing, and enjoying the wildlife and down at the creek. The neighborhood also has “a good combination of streets and trails that help folks avoid cars while out running or walking.”

SPECIAL HIGHLIGHTS: The small lake located just south of the amenity center is an old quarry that was known to locals as “the Rock Pit,” a popular swimming hole back in the 1970’s! There is also a neighborhood cat sporting his own hashtag #oreolife, with hundreds of posts cataloging his adventures.

From our doorstep to yours, The UPS Store Celina with Andy Hopkins is connecting neighbors. We are looking forward to meeting you in Heritage.

Andy “Hop” Hopkins - Owner

I love Celina! Just ask my family, friends and clients and they will tell you how much I love Celina. I fell in love in 2003 and got here as fast as I could, as the saying goes. I love that I get to sell Celina not just as a real estate broker but as a proud citizen, neighbor, and friend. It is an exciting time to be in Celina! There are so many amazing neighborhoods and more on the way. I’m so grateful that I get to help my clients stake their claim in Celina and call it home!

Kathy Corey Broker + Owner

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

INDOOR PLANT GUIDE

Investing in indoor plants can not only spruce up your living space, but also bring numerous health and well-being benefits

Bringing the outdoors in with the use of house plants is a great way to add color and dimension to your space. We sat down with Jesse Nelson at Family Tree Nursery, based in Kansas, and discussed the benefits of incorporating plant life into your home.“There are plenty of studies on the health benefits of plants, and the evidence suggests that being around plants and caring for plant life increases overall wellness,” explains Nelson. “Anytime you bring a plant into a home or work environment, it’s going to make you feel better. It is going to beautify the space in a way that art cannot, and they also have the added benefit of  purifying the air.” There are a wide variety of indoor plants that work for any space and light situation that you may have. Regardless if you have a green thumb or a black thumb, there are plant varieties that fit your lifestyle. Here are a few of our favorite indoor plants to incorporate into your home.

SNAKE PLANT:

This plant goes by many names such as Snake Plant and Mother-in-Law’s Tongue and is one of the most popular indoor plants. The Snake Plant is for anyone from a green thumb to a black thumb because anyone can grow it. These hardy plants can adapt to any environment and can live in both high light and low light. Snake Plants are great for countertops and tabletops because they grow tall, not

wide. They are great bedside plants because they help purify the air as they go through photosynthesis at night. They only need to be watered about once a month. These plants can also be outdoor plants and can acclimate during the summer months. Be sure to spray the plants three to five times before bringing them back indoors to get rid of any bugs that could have made the plant their home.

ANTHURIUM:

Anthurium has gorgeous, colorful flowers and is the easiest indoor flowering plant to care for. It comes in a variety of colors including red, white, orange and purple. Anthurium likes to be dry, so let it go bone dry before watering. Fertilize every so often, especially when blooming. These plants do not like direct sunlight and can be repotted every three to five years.

HOPE PEPEROMIA:

This cascading plant is gaining popularity due to its succulent-like leaves and also because it is fairly easy to care for. The Hope Peperomia likes medium to bright direct sunlight. It does well as a tabletop plant or a hanging plant. Watering is only needed one time a month regardless of plant size.

“Anytime you bring a plant into a home or work environment, it’s going to make you feel better. It is going to beautify the space in a way that art cannot, and they also have the added benefit of  purifying the air.”

DRACAENA JANET-CRAIG COMPACTA:

This is a slow-growing variety that is architectural and compact. This plant is a great statement piece and looks great in an entryway or by a chair. There are a lot of varieties and colors of the Dracaena. They are very resilient in low light and are great for an office space with little or no light. They like to stay on the dry side, so they like to be watered when they are about ½ to ¾ of the way dry. When watering, give it a good soak. Protip: A moisture meter can be purchased and used to determine how dry your plant is to help determine when it is time to water again.

ZZ PLANT:

The ZZ plant, which its formal name is Zamioculas Zamiifolia, is a very easy plant to care for. They like anything from low light to bright light. These plants are hard to kill and can go a long time without being watered. Their bulbs hold a lot of moisture, so they only

need to be watered once a month. This is a great plant to give as a gift due to its ease of care and versatility. They are slow-growing and are great for counters and tabletops. There are new varieties coming out such as Lucky which has round leaves and Raven which is black.

CALATHEA ORNATA:

The Calathea Ornata has a ton of varieties and is a very artistic plant. This one is a little finicky and temperamental, so it can take a little bit of a green thumb to care for them. Faucet water can be hard on these plants, so they prefer distilled water. If brown tips appear, this means it is being over-watered or the water is hard.  They like medium to bright indirect light. They can grow to 1 ½ feet to 2 feet maximum.

FICUS RUBY:

The Ficus Ruby is in the Rubber Tree family and can come in a variety of colors. These plants like either direct light or bright indirect light. These can grow three to four trunks in a pot and can take on the appearance of a bush. They grow six to eight inches a year. This plant can go dry so watering about once a month is sufficient.

PHILODENDRON LICKETY SPLIT:

This plant comes in many varieties, but the lickety split is known as the most pleasing. They can get to be between four to six feet and grow both tall and wide. These houseplants need lots of space to grow. They like to stay about half dry and can be a little forgiving if they go a little dryer than they like. This plant likes medium to bright light and can acclimate to an outdoor plant during warmer months.

When choosing an indoor plant, call your local professionals or go to a local garden center to get the best information. They will be happy to help you decide what plant works best in your space and with your plant-abilities.

ARTICLE

HANDMADE

BREAKING BREAD

BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

BEVERAGE

Making homemade bread is coming back, and while the convenience of buying a pre-made loaf is readily available, there is nothing like the taste of a warm, homemade loaf right out of the oven. These easy-to-follow recipes are exploding with flavor and are simple to make.

LEMON ALMOND LOAF

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 ½ cups flour

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1 cup sugar

• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

• ¾ cup milk

• ½ cup vegetable oil

• 2 eggs

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon almond extract

LEMON GLAZE ICING:

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2 teaspoons lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon almond extract

• 2 tablespoons sliced almonds

INSTRUCTIONS:

Preheat the oven to 350° F. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt and baking powder. In a separate bowl, combine sugar and lemon zest and lightly mix. Stir in flour mixture and set aside. In a separate bowl, mix oil, eggs, lemon juice, vanilla and almond extract. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir. Pour batter into a greased loaf pan and bake for 1 hour. Cool for 15 minutes and then carefully remove from the pan. Next, make the lemon glaze by combining all of the icing ingredients and whisk until smooth. Drizzle glaze all over the loaf and sprinkle with almond slices. Enjoy!

SOURDOUGH BREAD

For an added health benefit, try this probiotic-rich sourdough bread known for being easy to digest and a healthier gut-friendly option. To make sourdough bread, you will need a starter which can take anywhere from 7-14 days. To make your own, mix flour and water together in a jar and feed the starter each day until ready. There are many sourdough starter recipes online.

SOURDOUGH STARTER INGREDIENTS:

• 2 teaspoons sourdough starter

• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 5 teaspoons water

DOUGH INGREDIENTS:

• ¼ cup active sourdough starter

• 2 teaspoons salt

• 4 cups flour

INSTRUCTIONS:

Twelve hours before you plan to mix the dough, add the ingredients to make ¼ cup of active sourdough starter. Stir and cover and let the starter rise. The starter is ready when it has doubled in size and there are bubbles on the surface and sides.

To make the dough, add ¼ cup sourdough starter and 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons of water and stir. Next, add 4 cups plus 2 tablespoons of flour and 2 teaspoons of salt. Use a spatula to work the ingredients together until there are no more dry ingredients in the bowl. Wet your hand with a little water to prevent sticking, and pick up the dough on one side of the bowl and stretch it up and over itself. Turn the bowl a quarter turn and repeat this step until you have turned the bowl a full circle. Cover the bowl and let the dough sit for 30 minutes. Repeat the folding process one more time. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise on your counter for 8-10 hours.

Next, on a lightly floured surface, shape the dough into a ball by pulling the dough into the middle of itself. Turn the ball over so the seam is down. Use your hands to gently pull and cup the dough until it forms a tight skin. Place the dough on parchment paper and transfer the paper and dough to a medium sized bowl. Cover the bowl and let it rise for 2 hours.

Preheat the oven to 450°F. Score the top of dough with a sharp knife. Use the parchment paper to lift the dough up and transfer to a dutch oven. Place the lid on and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 30 minutes or until golden brown.

FOCACCIA

This recipe is quick and easy to make with just a few simple steps. It tastes great on its own, but dipping it in olive oil infused with fresh herbs adds an extra level of flavor.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 ¾ cups warm water

• 2 ½ teaspoons sugar

• 1 package active dry yeast

• 4 cups flour

• 2 teaspoons salt

• 4 tablespoons olive oil

• Optional:

• Fresh rosemary

• Coarse sea salt

• Fresh pressed garlic

INSTRUCTIONS:

Use a stand mixer with a fitted dough hook, and stir together the water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and stir again. Set mixture aside for 5 minutes. Mixture should be foamy. Next, add the flour and salt and mix on low until a shaggy dough forms. Increase speed and mix for an additional 4-5 minutes. Brush a large bowl with olive oil. Transfer the dough to the bowl and cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel. Set aside for about 1 to 1 ½ hours until the dough has doubled in size.

Brush a 9x13-inch baking dish with 2 tablespoons of oil. Uncover the dough and rub hands with olive oil. Slide your hands under the dough and fold it onto itself. Continue to work your way around the edge of the bowl, folding the dough onto itself until there is a ball that you can lift from the bowl. Place the dough in the prepared pan and press the dough to the edges. Cover the pan with plastic wrap or a damp towel and set aside to rise for about 45 minutes until the dough has doubled in size.

Preheat the oven to 425°F. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the dough. Rub your hands with olive oil and use your fingers to make indentions on the surface of the dough. Sprinkle it with salt and rosemary and any desired toppings. Bake for 20-30 minutes or until golden brown.

Planting Spring Flowers

Helpful tips for planting spring flowers

Sun-Loving Plants:

Spring is here! We compiled a list of flowers that - depending on your planting zone - can be planted in the season.

Plumbago

Has beautiful dark blue or white flowers on a large shrub of 3 to 5 feet. This tends to freeze down in winter and comes back from roots in the spring.

Hibiscus

The tropical variety will not survive the winters so move those pots inside. The plant can get up to 5 feet tall and there are many different colors and varieties. The perennial varieties will freeze to the ground but come back in the spring. The variety Moy Grande is known as the dinner plate hibiscus. The Texas star hibiscus has beautiful flowers in red or white.

Bougainvillea

These colorful plants can be planted in baskets and pots, not in water-logged or low areas where water might collect. They will grow best when given enough space to spread out, and should be planted in an area that will allow them a minimum of 5-6 hours of sunlight every day. Colors include orange, pink, purple, white, red, tangerine and fuschia to name a few.

Purslane

This is great in baskets for trailing leaves with lots of colors. The bees love it!

Butterfly Weed

This 3 to 4-foot bush is a must for monarch lovers. Monarchs feed on the leaves before making their cocoons. It has beautiful orange and yellow flowers.

ARTICLE BY LORI HAWKINS

Shade-Loving Plants:

Lantana

This is a great hot weather plant that comes in many colors and varieties. Trailing varieties only get about 1 foot tall but can get 3 to 4 feet wide. There are bush varieties that get 4 feet tall and dwarf bushes only get about 2 feet tall. It comes in yellows, purples, reds, oranges, pinks, fuschia, and many others.

Greggs Blue Mist

This fuzzy light blue flower is a butterfly favorite.

Pentas

This is another bee and butterfly favorite that grows about 10 to 12 inches tall. There is a graffiti variety in different colors that works in beds or pots.

Vinca/Periwinkle

This plant comes in upright or trailing varieties. There are many colors to choose from: lavender, white with a red center, peach, white and red pink to strawberry.

Sages

There are many varieties of sage. The Texas sage is a shrub that has beautiful lavender flowers - a favorite for bees. They usually bloom around the time it rains. Henry Duelberg variety is a smaller bush 18 to 20 inches tall with blue stalks of blooms. Russian Sage is a tall silver lacey foliage with light blue flower spikes and grows to 4 feet tall. Deer tend to stay away from most of the sages.

Turk’s Cap

This plant makes a large bush of red or pink flowers. It has low water needs once established and can tolerate drought conditions and hot temperatures. Prune back plant in winter if it gets too leggy.

Impatiens

These need more water than most other plants and come in many colors. They are valued for their vibrant colors, abundant blooms, and tolerance for shade.

Caladiums

With lush multicolored leaves, many larger than the palm of your hand, caladiums have become one of the most popular foliage plants for shady or semi-shady gardens—with many recent introductions being sun tolerant.

SAVOR LIFE & FIND YOUR True Wealth

ARTICLE BY SHEENA STEEDMAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY SCOTT MOORE

Indulge in Tuscan serenity, savor life’s richness, and rediscover yourself

The soft morning light filters through the curtains as you awake to birdsong and a gentle breeze. Stepping onto the balcony, you behold endless vineyards rippling in the Tuscan hills and can’t believe this paradise is real.

Walking downstairs, you’re greeted by many new faces of people smiling and excited to see you, new friends, gathered around a long wooden table immaculately set with steaming quiche, luscious fruit, warm bread, and Italian cappuccino.

This is just the beginning of days spent practicing yoga in nature’s rhythms, discovering ancient towns, and pausing to savor beauty at every turn.

If you can envision waking up like this, you’re ready for a yoga retreat with Scott Moore.

Retreats are an investment—in your truest self—the part of you that gets lost in the rush of daily life.

We frequently invest our money into stocks, bonds, and real estate, yet fail to invest in the one irreplaceable resource that makes it all possible, ourselves—our true wealth.

On this journey, all details have been meticulously planned so you can stay within your budget and fully relax into the experience.

After immersing in the richness of the present moment, slowing down and savoring life, you’ll return replenished and ready to bring this mindset of appreciation into your everyday world.

Reap the returns of a broadened perspective and renewed vitality—the dividends are endless.

Find out more about upcoming retreats with Scott Moore in destinations like Tuscany, Sardinia, Bordeaux, and the French Riviera at scottmooreyoga.com/retreats .

Chase Laster | Celina HS

OUTSTANDING STUDENT ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

It is with great pleasure to announce the Outstanding Student Athlete of the Month as selected by the Celina Independent School District (CISD) Athletic Coaching Team. This month’s selection is Chase Laster.

Chase is a senior at Celina High School (CHS) and a four year letterman on the mens’ soccer team where he currently serves as a Captain and plays right back and forward. He has loved every second of being a Bobcat. These last four years on the soccer team will always hold a special place in his heart, and he has gained life long brothers on the team. He’d like to thank Coach Cody Moles for believing in him and shaping him into the player he is today as well as all of the CHS coaches for nominating him as the Student Athlete of the Month.

Chase has earned many awards throughout his high school soccer career including Second Team All-District three years and an All-State nomination last season. Since he’s been on the

team, they have become district champions twice, bi-district champions three times, area champions three times, regional champions twice, finished third in state in 2021, and were state runners up in 2022. Chase started playing soccer at age four in a recreational league and moved up to club at age six. He has played for Liverpool and FC Dallas. When he is not playing soccer, Chase enjoys snowboarding, wakeboarding, riding dirt bikes, shooting and hanging out with friends.

Chase has a strong work ethic on and off the field. He is a member of DECA and FCA at CHS. He attended Future Leader Camp at Norwich University last year where he was named leader of the delta squad and graduated at the top of his class! He will continue his academic career at the University of Kansas School of Business and the Navy ROTC in the fall. After college graduation he hopes to enter the Navy as an officer.

Congratulations to Chase Laster and his selection as Lamar National Bank’s May Outstanding Student Athlete of the Month!

ARTICLE BY LEANN PARKER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Spring Floral Bowl

BRING THE BRIGHTNESS AND FRESHNESS OF SPRING INDOORS BY CREATING YOUR OWN FLORAL BOWL ARRANGEMENT.

Spring, come quickly! And if not, bring spring indoors anyway. Flowers brighten any room, any day of the year. No need to wait for a special occasion or holiday – give yourself permission to brighten everyday life with a bowl full of flowers. Place florals in an entryway, kitchen, living room space or even bathroom. Florals make any room come alive with pops of color and the smells of spring that’s just about ready to burst outside.

Consider this your personal invitation to play with flowers by creating your very own Floral Bowl Arrangement. Use any cereal bowl in the kitchen and a bundle of store bought flowers. For extra texture and depth, look for small spring branches and ornamental grasses found in your yard to pop into the arrangement, like I did here. Then, place your floral bowl in a place where you need that burst of joy most. Enjoy!

Supplies:

• 1 bundle of flowers (about 24 stems) + floral food packet

• spring branches & ornamental grasses found in your yard (optional)

• 6” bowl (cereal bowl size)

• floral shears (or garden clippers, kitchen shears, even craft scissors in a pinch)

• 12” square cut chicken wire

• wire cutters

• garden gloves to protect your hands when forming chicken wire

• clear floral tape (scotch tape will also do)

• lazy susan to easily move your arrangement and work from all sides (optional)

Preparation & Assembly:

• First prepare the mechanics. The mechanics are the non-floral elements used to assemble a floral arrangement. These materials will act as a grid in which the flowers are built into to hold each stem in its place.

• Wearing garden gloves, cut chicken wire roughly into a 12” square. Loosely form the chicken wire into a ball and place inside the bowl.

• Use clear floral tape to make an X shape over the top of the bowl to hold the chicken wire securely into place. This will also give extra support when adding the floral elements later.

• Fill the bowl with water and mix in a flower food packet, if your flowers came with one.

• Begin to arrange floral elements into the bowl. As a general rule, you will want to start with the strongest, thickest stems and end with the most delicate stems. Here, I began with branches, then the largest base flowers followed by taller focal flowers, and finally delicate stems, grasses and wispy greens.

Register for the

DASH on National Donut Day, June 8, 2024

CELINA LIFESTYLE

ARTICLE BY AMY YOUNG | PHOTOGRAPHY BY COMPLETE LANDSCULPTURE

A WORLD OF POSSIBILITIES

Right outside your backdoor

Spring is here and things are growing and opening and changing and blooming. It is time to get outside and be a part of a new beginning and a fresh start. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to have a front row seat to nature’s glory and splendor? This experience is waiting for you. All you have to do is walk through the door… into your own backyard. Creating a beautiful outdoor space and experience will enhance your enjoyment of this wonderful season and provide a place to enjoy friends and family in a beautiful, natural setting.

Many may dream of having their very own islands. A luxury that is possible without even boarding a plane. The bridge and sunken area of this island give a feeling of settling down into relaxation after a long day. It is perfect for enjoying the company of others while sitting together around the fire with a glass of wine. Here is the chance to get in a pool and not worry about messing up your hair.

Crossing a bridge is the beginning of a new adventure. The anticipation of what is on the other side is both fun and exciting. Give your

guests the feeling of discovery as they cross over into the beauty that awaits them. It can continue into a lush garden, a lounging area, a refreshing pool or an inviting kitchen. The bridge can also be a stopping place for homecoming pictures, a kite launch, even wedding vows. Enjoying the view from a highpoint makes a bridge a perfect addition as well.

Spring is not complete without wildlife. A pond adds a unique and peaceful experience that creates a relaxing environment. Incorporating a pond into your landscape provides both sights and sounds that encourage peaceful feelings and inner calmness. Having a whole ecosystem is fun to watch and a perfect place to catch tadpoles for the kids’ or grandkids’ classrooms. A stream with smooth river rocks provides another natural water source. Take off your shoes and delight in being a kid again.

A backyard isn’t just for relaxation. Whether it be a basketball, tennis or pickleball court, there is sure to be some healthy competition and a great workout taking place there. Family and friends of all ages can enjoy reliving their glory days or engaging in a Fourth

of July tournament with the neighbors. Get out there and show them what you’ve got! A wonderful spot to blow off steam after a hard day or challenge the kids to a game of PIG (also known as disguised conversation with a teenager).

Even smaller areas offer an opportunity for an intimate space in the outdoors. Complete with lush plants and crawling vines, your hideaway can be a place to get lost in a good book with a cup of coffee on a cool spring morning. What a wonderful setting for a book club, a dinner party, ladies Bunco night or poker night with the big game on in the background.

Our friends and designers at Complete Landsculpture are ready to help make your dreams a reality. Your backyard is an important extension of your home and provides space for amazing possibilities. Consider allowing them to create an outdoor masterpiece with expertise and acute observation. You can find them at www.completelandsculpture.com or by phone at 214.358.5296. Remember, spring is not just a season, but an experience waiting to happen.

realty report

A SAMPLE OF RECENTLY SOLD PROPERTIES IN CELINA.

MAY 3RD

Open Gym

ACHIEVING MILESTONES | 9:00 AM

The Achieving Milestones indoor facility is sensory-friendly and perfect for kids to burn off their energy with a large motor gym for ages 3-10 and a smaller soft play room for ages birth-3, perfect for children of all abilities! Bring the whole gang and enjoy a fun-filled day of activity! AchievingMilestonesTX.com

MAY 4TH

Cinco de Mayo

DOWNTOWN CELINA AND THE SQUARE | 2:00 PM

Traditional dances, music, shopping, food, and much more! Join us on the Square for this fun, family-friendly event which raises money for scholarships for local students. The event is from 2:00PM to 10:00PM. For more information, go to CincodeMayoCelina.com

MAY 4TH

Texas Horsemanship Clinic

WINDY HILL EQUINE RESCUE AND REHOMING | 9:00 AM

Want to improve your relationship with your horse? Spend 2 days devoted to improving your skills as a horseman and a rider. This clinic by Harmony Horseman will cover ground work, liberty and riding with a focus on bridleless. Space is limited to 6 riders for this clinic. Be sure to sign-up to reserve your spot! WindyHillEquineRescue.org

MAY 11TH

Celina Cajun Fest

DOWNTOWN CELINA AND THE SQUARE | 2:00 PM

While feasting at one of the largest crawfish boils in Texas, you will enjoy live alligator shows, local vendors offering food, drinks, and unique items, and a large kids zone. Aaron Watson will be performing LIVE on the Methodist Celina Medical Center Stage along with many other special guests! LifeinCelinaTX.com/Events

MAY 11TH

Low Cost Pet Vaccinations

D&L FARM AND HOME | 9:00 AM

D&L Farm and Home will offer low cost pet vaccinations from VaxShack for your furry loved ones.  Select from the yearly dog package (Rabies/DHPP/Bordetella), yearly cat package, or rabies shot only.  Heartworm testing will be available as well. No appointment needed - just show up between 9 am - 12 noon! DandLFarmandHome.com

MAY 11TH

Free Gardening Clinic

SHADES OF GREEN CELINA | 10:00 AM

At these free garden clinics, experts at Shades of Green provide the knowledge you need to succeed so that you can truly enjoy your outdoor space. This month, learn about the best annuals for eye catching color even in a HOT Texas summer. You’ll receive 45 minutes of quality instruction followed by an opportunity to ask specific questions. ShadesofGreenInc.com

Discover Your Dream Home in New Construction!

Are you ready to embark on the exciting journey of homeownership in a brand-new residence?

As your dedicated realtor, I’m thrilled to guide you through the world of new construction, where possibilities are endless!

UNPARALLELED EXPERTISE:

With years of experience, I bring unparalleled expertise to help you navigate the dynamic landscape of new construction, ensuring you make informed decisions every step of the way.

PERSONALIZED GUIDANCE:

Receive personalized guidance tailored to your unique preferences and needs. I am committed to understanding your vision and turning it into a reality.

EXCLUSIVE ACCESS:

Gain exclusive access to the latest developments and newly constructed homes, providing you with a firsthand look at the most sought-after properties in the market.

ADVOCACY FOR YOU:

Rest easy knowing that I am your advocate throughout the entire process, addressing concerns with builders and ensuring your interests are prioritized.

NEGOTIATION MASTERY:

Let me leverage my negotiation skills to secure the best possible terms for your new home, whether it’s the price, upgrades, or additional perks.

SMOOTH TRANSACTIONS:

Experience a seamless and stress-free journey, as I handle all the details and paperwork, making the process of purchasing new construction as smooth as possible for you.

events

CONTINUED

MAY 18TH

Live Comedy Night

ROLLERTOWN BEERWORKS | 9:00 PM

Join us for Live Comedy at Rollertown Beerworks. This month's comedians are Ryan Perrio, Miles Francis, and our friend Michael Pasvar. Comedy is FREE to attend! All you need to do is show up, but get here a little early for the best seats. See you then, cheers! RollertownBeerworks.com

MAY 25TH

Sips and Sounds Concert: Moving Colors Band

EDEN HILL WINERY | 7:00 PM

The Moving Colors Band kicks off Eden Hill's  2024 line up of Sips & Sounds Live Outdoor Concerts. Food catered by Marc Sherrin BBQ featuring burgers and brisket sandwiches for purchase. Enjoy award-winning Eden Hill wines by the glass and bottle. All ages welcome. There is plenty of space on the farm to spread out! EdenHill.com

MAY 25TH

Gunter's Memorial Day Challenge

GUNTER CITY PARK | 8:00 AM

Join the Gunter PD for the 2nd Annual Memorial Day Challenge! Compete in the original challenge for individuals or a new family-oriented 4-person group relay challenge with exciting events! Everyone will get a participation medal, a Memorial Day shirt, and a swag bag full of awesome items. Come out and enjoy a family fun filled fitness event! GunterPD.RedPodium.com