Cross Timbers DECEMBER 2017
CrossTimbersLifestyle.com
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Cheers to the New Year
THE HOLIDAY COOKIE JAR CROSSFIRE DEFENSE ACADEMY THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR
Lifestyle Letter
A Season of Giving DECEMBER 2017
A
s we turn the page of this year’s calendar to December, it seems like it was just yesterday we were singing carols, unwrapping gifts and toasting to 2017. Now—as unbelievable as it may seem—it’s time to do it all over again. The holiday season and the end of the year always bring about a flurry of activity–holiday shopping to conquer; parties, plays and concerts to attend; the perfect meal to host; tree lightings and special services to enjoy. For many of us, there is no shortage of places to be and “to-dos" on our list. I invite you to take a few moments to reflect on the year and the season at hand. What makes the season special for your family? Make time to honor those personal traditions— decorating gingerbread houses, listening to old-fashioned or funky new Christmas carols, visiting friends and family, enjoying eggnog and other special treats that may only surface in December. It’s never too late to start a new tradition as well. In the midst of this busy season, we encourage you to pause and reflect upon all the moments that have made 2017 what it is. When you recall everything this year has brought, remember those who haven’t had the benefit of people, memories and moments to make 2017 a year to remember. Those who are in need of a family to spend the holidays with, those who can’t afford to buy gifts and prep the perfect dinner, and those who may not even have a home to go back to. Just as much as December is a time of reflection and closure, it is also a time of giving to those who haven’t been as fortunate. Look for ways to serve our Denton County neighbors and beyond so that you may share the warmth of the season with even more hearts. Merry Christmas, happy holidays and Happy New Year from Cross Timbers Lifestyle!
PUBLISHER
Jane Krzysiak | Jane.Krzysiak@LifestylePubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Lindsey Howard | Lindsey.Howard@LifestylePubs.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Taylor Begg, Martha Helton, Kim Higgins, Mollie Jamison, Jane Krzysiak, Laura Krudener CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Meredith Butterfield, Convey Studios, Sara Ford Photography, Brenda Jorgensen, Brooke Lark, Urbanology, Zeller Photography
CORPORATE TEAM | Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
CHIEF SALES OFFICER
| Matthew Perry
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DIRECTOR OF MARKETING ART DIRECTOR OPERATIONS DIRECTOR
| Sara Minor | Janeane Thompson
EDITORIAL MANAGER EDITORIAL
| DeLand Shore | Brad Broockerd
| Nicolette Martin
| Victoria Perry, Lindsey Howard
AD MANAGER AD COORDINATORS
| Chad Jensen
| Cyndi Harrington, Alicia Huff, Adella Wrisinger
| Cyndi King, Jessica Sharky, Dana Rudolph, Emily Stout
LAYOUT DESIGNERS
PUBLISHER SUPPORT
| Melanie Carlisle
EXECUTIVE ACCOUNTANT APPLICATION ARCHITECT WEB DEVELOPERS
| Randa Makeen
| Michael O’Connell
| Hanna Park, Scott Lavigne
Jane Krzysiak , Publisher Jane.Krzysiak@LifestylePubs.com
CrossTimberLifestyle.com ON THE COVER A cranberry martini,
perfect for the holidays. Find the recipe at CrossTimbersLifestyle.com. COVER PHOTOGRAPHY BY BROOKE LARK
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Cross Timbers Lifestyle | December 2017
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TALK TO US
P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214 Proverbs 3:5-6 Cross Timbers Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Cross Timbers’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Cross Timbers Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
December 2017
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Departments 8
Good Times
14
Around Town
16
Culinary Creations
28
Local Limelight
32
Giving Back
34 DIY 36
Lifestyle Calendar
38
Parting Thoughts
20 The Most Wonderful Time of The Year
How One Community Celebrates in Many Different Ways
24 Defense Academy in Every Sense of the Meaning
New CrossFire Defense Academy & Range is a Business in Four Parts
28 An "Accidental Business"
Essential Oils May Have Fallen into Alyssa Francis' Life, but They Led to Her Dream of Financial Freedom
32 Children's Advocacy Center for Denton County
How a Local Nonprofit Brought Hope, Healing and Life Purpose to a Victim/Activist
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Good Times
Cross Timbers Rotary Holds Picnic
On October 21, Cross Timbers Rotary members and their families gathered at the scenic Briarwood Retreat Center in Copper Canyon for an afternoon of fellowship and fun. A cookout, games and fishing were topped off by an opportunity for the youth present to create blessing bags for the homeless of Denton County.
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Cross Timbers Lifestyle | December 2017
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Good Times
Jim Collin/Steve Allen Memorial Golf Event Raises More than $100K
The Jim Collin/Steve Allen Memorial Golf Event, a joint effort by the Lewisville ISD Education Foundation and the Denton Public School Foundation, grossed more than $100,000 for student scholarships to be shared equally in both districts. The event included a competitive golf tournament along with complimentary lunch, beverages, dinner reception and awards ceremony.
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Cross Timbers Lifestyle | December 2017
December 2017 | Cross Timbers Lifestyle
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Good Times
Marcus High School Celebrates Homecoming
Marcus High School celebrated homecoming in October with a carnival, community pep rally, dance and a football game vs. Hebron High School. Cody Holly was named homecoming king and Gigi Gutwein was named queen.
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Cross Timbers Lifestyle | December 2017
Winning the Fight Holds Stompin' Stigma 5K
On September 30, Winning The Fight held their fourth annual Stompin’ Stigma 5K and Fun Walk to bring awareness to the disease of addiction and to help stop the stigma and judgment that goes along with substance use and mental health issues. For more information or to volunteer, call 972.467.7704 or visit WTF-WinningTheFight.org.
Kyle O'Keefe
Ben and Kathy O'Keefe
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HAPPY HOLIDAYS May your smiles be joyous and infinitely bright. December 2017 | Cross Timbers Lifestyle
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Around Town
AROUND TOWN
LOCAL FAMILY BRINGS BRAIN BALANCE ACHIEVEMENT CENTER TO DENTON COUNTY Brain Balance Achievement Center opened in November in Denton's Rayzor Ranch Town Center. “We are so honored and excited to bring this amazing program to the Cross Timbers area and surrounding communities,"
"From the Top" is America’s largest national platform celebrating the stories, talents and character of young classically-trained musicians. For more information, visit FromTheTop.org.
FIRST EVER CROSS-FOUNDATION GOLF EVENT A SUCCESS
Brain Balance of Denton owner Tammy Tubbs says. "After expe-
The Jim Collin/Steve Allen Memorial Golf Event, a joint effort by the
riencing amazing results in our own children, we knew that we
Lewisville ISD Education Foundation (LEF) and the Denton Public
couldn’t rest until every family in our reach had an opportunity
School Foundation (DPSF), grossed more than $100,000 for student
to seek help from the Brain Balance Program. By experience, we
scholarships to be shared equally in both school districts. The event
know how hard it is for the entire family when a child is strug-
included a competitive golf tournament along with complimentary
gling, but through the Brain Balance Program, we are able to
lunch, beverages, dinner reception and awards ceremony.
get to the root of your child’s problem by identifying why he/she
Denton Country Club played host to the first Collin/Allen Memorial
is struggling and then through a comprehensive, individualized
Event in honor of two area businessmen, Steve Allen and Jim Collin. Allen,
program, we provide the solution!”
who unexpectedly passed away in 2016, was well known in the Lewisville
Brain Balance is scheduling now. Call then today at 940.654.7870 to find out how they can help your child.
ISD community and served on the LISD school board from 1986-1998. He sponsored numerous fundraising initiatives and charity events in the
Brain Balance Achievement Centers provide a nonmedical and
area. Meanwhile, Collin was a staple in the Denton ISD community. When
drug-free approach to overcoming the challenges of ADHD, learning
he passed away in 2012, many of his friends at Denton Country Club
disabilities, processing disorders, Asperger’s syndrome and a host of
established the Jim Collin/Denton Country Club Business Scholarship in
other related childhood learning, behavior and developmental issues.
his memory. Both members of the Denton Country Club, each seemed
Visit BrainBalanceDenton.com or on Facebook for important dates
never to meet a stranger, loved people and enjoyed their communities.
and additional information.
This year’s event and those to follow will ensure future funding of the Collin
FLOWER MOUND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HOLDS 20TH FIESTA On October 28, the Flower Mound Chamber of Commerce held the 20th anniversary of Fiesta at Embassy Suites by Hilton Dallas DFW
scholarship and will create a new scholarship in Allen’s name. This year’s winning team was Certainty Home Loans with players Jim Juergens, John Aspinwall, Marcus Jones and Marco Scarola. Team Nelson finished in second place with Bonded Lightning Protection Systems finishing third.
Airport North. More than 650 attendees returned to the days of old
Certainty Home Loans of Highland Village represented LEF and was
Mexico, Cabo and Cuba for an event that featured a silent and live
awarded the Superintendent’s Cup, which will now stay in Lewisville
auction, live music, dinner, dancing, a casino night and more.
ISD Superintendent Kevin Rogers’ office until next year’s event.
FLOWER MOUND STUDENT PERFORMS ON LEWISVILLE ISD HOLDS NATIONALLY SYNDICATED RADIO SHOW COMMUNITY FFA NIGHT Flower Mound High School orchestra member and senior violist
Every fall, Lewisville, Marcus and The Colony high schools National
Yong-Ha Jung recently had the opportunity to represent FMHS on the
FFA Organization chapters invite the community to an event held at
nationally syndicated radio program "From the Top."
the Lewisville ISD Chester Boyd Agricultural Center.
The program was recorded on October 1 at New England Conservatory's Jordan Hall in Boston and is set to air on NPR on Monday, January 1. In addition to recording the show, Jung had the opportunity to perform in Jordan Hall in front of a live audience. 14
Cross Timbers Lifestyle | December 2017
The free event features student-led tours of the facilities and allows guests to interact with the livestock. After the tours, guests are treated to a complimentary cookout and treats. The community night was most recently held October 24.
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Culinary Creations
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Cross Timbers Lifestyle | December 2017
COOKIE JAR
Inside Cross Timbers Lifestyle’s
COFFEE NUGGETS
Christmas time meant the arrival of these powdery, scrumptious culinary gems courtesy of my aunt, Lena Mae. I have only grown to love them more as the years have passed. Simple to make, these lovely snowballs of goodness are a gorgeous homemade gift for your neighbors or favorite hostess. They are perfect when paired with a steaming cup of coffee or tall cold glass of milk. Turn on the Bing Crosby and sit by the fire.
INGREDIENTS ½ cup butter 3 tablespoons powdered sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 teaspoon instant coffee 1 cup sifted flour ½ cup finely chopped pecans
INSTRUCTIONS 1. Cream butter, sugar, vanilla and coffee until light and fluffy. Add flour and nuts. Mix thoroughly. Chill 1 hour. 2. Using approximately 1 teaspoon of dough per cookie, roll into balls. Place on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake 12-15 minutes at 350 degrees. 3. Roll the cookie in powdered sugar as soon as you remove it from the oven. Roll the cookies in the powdered sugar a second time once cookies are cool.
CONTINUED >
ARTICLE JANE KRZYSIAK
December 2017 | Cross Timbers Lifestyle
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Culinary Creations
(CON TI N U ED)
SANTA’S SUGAR COOKIES The buttery goodness of these cookies makes it my family’s go-to sugar cookie recipe at Christmas and any other day of the year. I knew we were on to something when a pregnant friend devoured them all at a party and called for the recipe the next day. (And, you didn’t hear this from me, but sometimes the dough never makes it into the oven—it’s that good!) We love the traditional Christmas cutouts to decorate but sometimes make red and white candy cane cookies instead. Nothing says “Welcome, Santa” like a homemade sugar cookie. Enjoy!
INGREDIENTS 3 cups all-purpose flour ½ teaspoon baking powder ½ teaspoon salt 1 cup butter (not margarine), softened 1½ cups sugar 2 large eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Icing, sprinkles and powdered sugar, as desired
INSTRUCTIONS 1. In a large bowl combine flour, baking powder and salt. 2. In a separate bowl, beat butter and sugar with a mixer on low speed, increasing speed until light and fluffy. Then reduce speed to low and beat in eggs and vanilla. Beat in flour mixture until blended. 3. Divide dough in half. Shape each half into two equal balls. Wrap them separately and freeze until firm. 4. Preheat oven to 350 F. On a lightly floured surface, take a small portion of dough and roll flat. Use your favorite Christmas cookie cutters to create shapes. Make the thickness you prefer, but you may have to adjust your oven time. 5. Place dough on ungreased cookie sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are golden brown. Transfer cookies to wire racks to cool. 6. Decorate with icing and sprinkles or dust them lightly with granulated sugar or powdered sugar.
For a slight twist, literally, at step 3, mix a few drops of red food coloring into two of the balls of dough. Freeze as usual. Then, on a lightly floured surface take some of the red dough and roll into long strings. Do the same with the plain-colored dough, then take strings of each color, twist them together and shape in the form of a candy cane. Bake as recommended.
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Cross Timbers Lifestyle | December 2017
December 2017 | Cross Timbers Lifestyle
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THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR HOW ONE COMMUNITY CELEBRATES IN MANY DIFFERENT WAYS ARTICLE TAYLOR BEGG
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Cross Timbers Lifestyle | December 2017
Photo by Meredith Butterfield
Photo by Brenda Jorgensen
M
any hold the precious comfort of their family's diverse Christmas traditions dearly. Whether you remember baking sugar cookies with Mom, midnight
Mass or sledding with siblings, take a look at how the community celebrates. The beauty of a towering Christmas tree is wholly captured at Our Village Glows, a festive celebration held at The Shops at Highland Village. Thousands gather to view the themed light show and 60-foot Christmas tree lighting. Horse-drawn carriage rides create an unforgettable night for all, while children can enjoy face painting and Santa’s arrival. Flower Mound locals swear by the simple joy of advent calendars, an old German-Lutheran tradition of counting the advent days until Christmas. Pick one out from stores like Barnes & Noble, Target and Pottery Barn, which offer creative selections fit for any house, or craft your own paper chain. The Flower Mound Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting is a long-held treasure to the community. The 28th annual parade will be held after sunset on December 9 to show off lighted floats making their way into Gerault Park for more festivities. Fill your bellies and have a jolly time enjoying holiday activities in the park.
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December 2017 | Cross Timbers Lifestyle
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MOST WONDERFUL TIME (CON TI N U ED)
Photo by Brenda Jorgensen
Christmas letters are a simple yet thoughtful gesture for loved ones and an excellent craft to focus on. Stamps and rib-
FLOWER MOUND CHRISTMAS PARADE AND TREE LIGHTING:
bon make us feel festive, but for the busy bees of Christmas,
6 p.m. to 9 p.m., December 9 at Gerault
store-bought cards with a handwritten signature offer loving
Park 1200 Gerault Road, Flower Mound, TX
and thoughtful messages of holiday cheer.
75028. Flower Mound's 28th annual Christmas
Lamb of God Lutheran Church generously shares a
parade will feature floats lighting the night as
live nativity with visitors in early December to celebrate
well as the traditional tree lighting, visits with
Christmas in the name of God. This year's nativity will be
Santa and a petting zoo.
held on December 9. Marilyn Janke, a longtime Flower Mound resident, is credited along with her husband, Gary Janke, for their incredible work and dedication to bringing the spirit of Christmas alive.
2 p.m. to 6 p.m., December 9 at Lamb of
“We have a place for everyone to participate in the pro-
God Lutheran Church, 1401 Cross Timbers
duction of the live nativity," Marilyn says. "If you want to
Road, Flower Mound, TX 75028. Join Lamb of
help, it’s going to happen. It’s a really all-inclusive activity
God Church for their live presentation of the
that we love to share."
Christmas story, an annual festivity complete
However you choose to celebrate, fill this Christmas with unforgettable memories of one community many different ways.
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LAMB OF GOD LUTHERAN CHURCH LIVE NATIVITY:
Cross Timbers Lifestyle | December 2017
with hot cider, cookies, Christmas carols, a hayride and a petting zoo.
Photo by Brenda Jorgensen
December 2017 | Cross Timbers Lifestyle
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DEFENSE ACADEMY IN EVERY SENSE OF THE MEANING
F
NEW CROSSFIRE DEFENSE ACADEMY & RANGE IS A BUSINESS IN FOUR PARTS
ollow your GPS to 801 Patriot Way in Flower Mound, and you will find a brand-
Another member of the superhuman staff,
new, 42,000-square foot facility featuring a CrossFit studio, martial arts studio,
CrossFire Range Master Kevin Ross, is a for-
indoor shooting range and gun retailer all under one roof.
mer Marine that has spent the last 20 years in
“We are a defense academy in every sense of the meaning,” David Vaught,
law enforcement with the Texas Department of
founder of CrossFire Defense Academy & Range, says. “We believe that starts with
Public Safety and Garland Police Department.
fitness. If you have the physical ability to avoid or escape a dangerous situation, you
Billie Licardo, head coach of CrossFire’s
have a 100 percent chance of survival. It does not matter if that means outrunning
CrossFit affiliate, has been in the fitness indus-
an attacker or pulling yourself out of a burning car, fitness can save your life.”
try as an athlete, model and coach for decades.
David and his wife, Sarah, have been building their four-part business from the
David's background in firearms will only
ground up for more than four years now. And the journey to their grand opening in
add more expertise to a highly experienced
November was nothing short of life-changing.
staff. After graduating high school, he enlisted
“THERE IS LITERALLY NO WAY TO QUANTIFY THE BLOOD, SWEAT AND TEARS WE HAVE PUT INTO THIS BUT I CAN TELL YOU IT HAS BEEN EXCITING, EXHAUSTING, REWARDING AND, AT TIMES, DEVASTATING,” DAVID SAYS. "THIS IS A HUGE PROJECT, BUT HONESTLY, WE ARE JUST A MOM AND POP SHOP. ON THE WEEKENDS YOU CAN FIND SARAH, MYSELF AND OUR THREE DAUGHTERS PAINTING WALLS, INSTALLING GYM EQUIPMENT, DOING WHATEVER WE CAN DO TO ASSIST WITH CONSTRUCTION.”
in the Navy where he graduated from Gunners Mate A School. After serving, he went on to graduate from the police academy and was awarded the Top Gun award for firearm excellence and became a certified peace officer before going back to school. “I went on to follow a career path with a large advertising agency until 2004 when I launched VaughtStudio, which has grown to become regarded as one of the premier marketing studios in the Southwest,” he says. And although his career path was diverted, he
But they have not done it all on their own. David says CrossFire Special Training
remains close to military and law enforcement
Coordinator Dan Licardo and his family have also put a lot of energy into helping out.
roots through competitive tactical shooting
“Dan and I met back in 1992 at BUD/s Training,” David says. “Dan spent 16 years
and fitness events, as well as training with local
with the SEAL teams on the East Coast serving all over the world. He and his wife
agencies. David developed the concept behind
moved their family from Virginia Beach to Texas to be a part of this adventure.”
ARTICLE MOLLIE JAMISON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
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Cross Timbers Lifestyle | December 2017
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December 2017 | Cross Timbers Lifestyle
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DEFENSE ACADEMY (CON TI N U ED)
CrossFire Defense Academy & Range because he wanted a venue that allowed for a functional way of training. At the core of this model is fitness in the form of CrossFit, and then comes belt-driven Jiu-Jitsu classes and fine motor manipulation of a firearm.
“IF YOUR FITNESS CANNOT SOLVE WHATEVER PROBLEM YOU ARE FACED WITH, CAN YOU DEFEND YOURSELF WITH SOFT EMPTY HANDS?” DAVID SAYS. “LASTLY, IF ALL ELSE FAILS AND YOUR LIFE IS IN DANGER, CAN YOU USE A FIREARM EFFECTIVELY AFTER EXHAUSTING ALL OTHER OPTIONS? THE FIREARM IS THE LAST OPTION, AND IF YOU GET TO THAT POINT, YOUR HEART RATE WILL BE ELEVATED, AND FINE MOTOR SKILLS WILL BE DEGRADED. AT CROSSFIRE, WE HAVE CREATED A SYSTEM WHERE YOU CAN TRAIN UNDER THOSE CONDITIONS—TEACHING THE FINE MOTOR MANIPULATION OF A FIREARM WHILE UNDER PHYSICAL AND EMOTIONAL STRESS.” Customers can participate in one of these areas of training either in single sessions or through monthly and annual memberships. CrossFire Defense Academy & Range is open to the public as well as to law enforcement. “We have already secured a contract with Flower Mound Police Department as a training facility and look forward to giving back to our community,” David says. “We are unapologetically American and proud of that.”
To learn more, visit CrossFireDefense.com.
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Cross Timbers Lifestyle | December 2017
December 2017 | Cross Timbers Lifestyle
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Local Limelight
An Accidental Business
ESSENTIAL OILS MAY HAVE FALLEN INTO ALYSSA FRANCIS' LIFE, BUT THEY LED TO HER DREAM OF FINANCIAL FREEDOM
A
ARTICLE KIM HIGGINS
lyssa Francis is a busy Flower Mound mom of three who is living her dream of financial freedom and work-life balance through a business
she built on true passion. Alyssa and her family moved to Flower Mound a little over a year ago, with the desire to be closer to Liberty Christian School, where her children ages, 17, 11 and 8 attend school. The success of her business made this possible. Before moving to Flower Mound, Alyssa’s family lived in nearby Keller and Argyle. She and her husband are active in their children’s school lives. The family attends Valley Creek Church, and Alyssa enjoys getting to know her new neighbors through the Women’s Club of the Tour 18 community. Alyssa’s business and caring for her family take up the bulk of her time, but she also makes time for herself and enjoys a regular fitness routine. It was the desire to achieve greater fitness and wellness for herself and her family that led her to her passion and prosperous business. “My business is an accidental business,” Alyssa says. “It was not some-
thing I set out to do. In early 2012, I was introduced to essential oils through an acquaintance on Facebook. I was already on a path to healthy lifestyle changes and wellness goals for myself and my family. I didn’t know much about essential oils at the time, but it sounded like something that could really help my family. I was invited to a class in her home, and I jumped in for the oils.
I told a few friends about how the products were helping my family with a difference in our wellness, and before I knew it, I had a business dropped in my lap. CONTINUED >
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Cross Timbers Lifestyle | December 2017
Photo by Zeller Photography
December 2017 | Cross Timbers Lifestyle
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Local Limelight
(CON TI N U ED)
"Today, it is our sole source of income and has been a real blessing in our life. My husband was able to retire from a rewarding career at a young age and no longer has to travel extensively. He now supports the business behind the scenes and is able to be around for me and the children.
Essential oils have been around for thousands of years, Alyssa explains. It may seem like a new trend, but it is only a resurgence of ancient knowledge on their benefits and how to use them. There are three basic methods to utilize essential oils: Aromatically, by smelling them through rubbing them on your hands or through a diffuser. Secondly, you can also apply them directly on your skin to an area that needs support, according to Alyssa. “ The back of the neck, the bottoms of your feet, the wrists and the tummy are a great place to use them. I put oils on my wrists multiple times a day to alleviate stress. It helps you feel calm, especially with the back to school crazies.” Thirdly, they are effective through ingestion in some cases. “You can’t do that with all essential oils,” Alyssa says. “The company that I use is Young Living and has been around for almost 25 years. Their oils are completely pure and genuine, so they are safe to use internally.” According to Alyssa, Young Living is mostly known for essential oils, but they also have a full line of health and wellness products for the home. Alyssa is an independent distributor for Young Living. Starting out with a few friends and word of mouth, she now has a worldwide membership of more than 90,000 globally in her network. She has witnessed many women who were able to quit jobs they were miserable in or bring their husbands home from jobs they were miserable into a business they truly believe in and enjoy the abundance that comes with that. For more information on Alyssa and her business, visit OilyFamilies.com. 30
Cross Timbers Lifestyle | December 2017
Photo by Urbanology and Convey Studios
Photo by Urbanology and Convey Studios
Alyssa's Favorites and their uses PEPPERMINT:
Stimulating
and
uplifting.
Great to use before and during a workout to increase stamina and wakefulness. Also great for cooling sensation on hot days. LAVENDER: Called the “Swiss army knife”
of essential oils. Very versatile. Promotes a restful night's sleep. Can be diffused next to bed or used on bed linens. Also great in a bath with Epsom salts. CITRUS FRESH: An essential oil blend. “I love
to diffuse it in the mornings in my kitchen when Photo by Zeller Photography
I get my kids ready for school. It helps them wake up and focus," Alyssa says. "It’s also a great way to make your house smell fresh without the use of toxic chemicals.”
Photo by Urbanology and Convey Studios
STRESSAWAY: This is a great oil for stress
relief. I use it in the pick-up line at school. And it is one of my son’s favorites for use at bedtime. He says it smells like cookies.
Remodel: Ubanology Designs: Ginger Curtis is the owner of Urbanology Designs, and she has a team of talented women under her. Photo by Urbanology and Convey Studios
“Before the renovation, the office was a dungeon and a true man cave, floor to ceiling,” Alyssa says. “Ginger transformed my office into my dream space. Ginger also uses the oils and understood what I was trying to achieve—lightness and healing. The space is now completely light and energizing. It has been remodeled floor to ceiling." For more information on Urbanology Designs,
visit UrbanologyDesigns.com.
December 2017 | Cross Timbers Lifestyle
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Giving Back
CHILDREN'S ADVOCACYfor CENTER Denton County HOW A LOCAL NONPROFIT BROUGHT HOPE, HEALING AND LIFE PURPOSE TO A VICTIM/ACTIVIST
B
eginning at the age of 12, Jenna Quinn was groomed by an adult family friend, gaining her trust so he could sexually
abuse her. When it happened, she was changed forever. “No amount of showering could get that dirty, clammy feeling off me and I was threatened not to tell like most children are,” she shares. “I told myself that it would never happen again, but I was wrong. It continued for years.” Usually outgoing, she became withdrawn and depressed. She
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“I started to believe the lies that shame whispered to my soul … that maybe I did something to bring this on,” Jenna says. Finally, one day her sister asked her to lunch. “She looked at me and said, ‘Has anyone ever hurt you?’ Without a word, I answered her. I broke down into uncontrollable tears.” The next day, after telling her family, the police were contacted. It was then they were put in touch with the Children’s Advocacy Center for Denton County. The road to recovery began.
began cutting, a perverted way to try to control the pain. But she
Unfortunately, Jenna is not alone in her suffering. This is
couldn’t reveal the real, sordid truth—that her best friend’s dad
where the Children’s Advocacy Center steps in. The CAC for
was sexually assaulting her. Her family knew something was
Denton County opened in 1997 and today has served more
wrong but didn’t know what to do. Worst of all, she lost hope.
than 10,000 abused children. The CAC model originated with
Cross Timbers Lifestyle | December 2017
ARTICLE MARTHA HELTON
Jenna Quinn promotes her book on "The 700 Club." Jenna Quinn
Alabama Congressman Robert E. “Bud” Cramer Jr. He realized that in a criminal justice system designed for adults, child victims were actually being revictimized by the system by having to retell their abuse stories to numerous investigators. Criminal cases were weakened by the lack of coordination between agencies.
symptoms of child abuse weren't more widely known. An idea formed from
Cramer’s vision led to creating a child-friendly
that frustration. Jenna worked with Texas Rep. Tan Parker to introduce “Jenna’s
environment in 1985, where everything is cen-
law,” which passed unanimously in 2009. Jenna's law is a Texas statute that
tralized under one agency. There are now more
requires all public schools, charter schools and day care facilities to annually
than 700 Children’s Advocacy Centers across the
educate students, teachers and parents on the signs of child sexual abuse.
country; 69 are in Texas.
Thirty states have duplicated portions of this legislation.
The CAC provides social and emotional support through free counseling for the victim, both oneon-one and group therapy. Parents of the victim also receive counseling. “There is a true sense of isolation that survivors and their families experience with this crime, and with the CAC, we didn't feel we were the only ones going through this,” Jenna says. When Jenna and her family decided to press
I DON’T THINK THE PEOPLE WHO HELPED ME (AT THE CAC) REALIZE WHAT A HUGE DIFFERENCE THEY MADE IN MY LIFE AND IN MY PARENTS' LIVES," JENNA SAYS. "I THINK THEY REALLY SHAPED WHO I AM TODAY AND I WANT TO GIVE BACK.
charges, the CAC prepared them for court. Justice prevailed; the jury gave her perpetrator 20 years. An “ineffable desire” to learn more led Jenna
Today, Jenna is a writer and speaker, dedicating her life to preventing child sexual abuse through education and legislation.
back to the CAC to do an internship while a college student. She grew increasingly frustrated that the For more information on Children's Advocacy Center for Denton County, visit CACDC.org. For more information on Jenna Quinn, visit JennaQuinn.org.
December 2017 | Cross Timbers Lifestyle
33
DIY
t e re n
F
a o c o C t Ho Gift Sets
THIS IS THE PERFECT DIY GIFT FOR YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY, OR A TREAT FOR YOURSELF. ARTICLE LAURA KRUDENER, AMONG THE COLORS | PHOTOGRAPHY SARA FORD PHOTOGRAPHY
FERNET HOT CHOCOLATE Makes 8-10 cups • 4 tablespoons cocoa powder • 4 tablespoons coconut sugar • 4 tablespoons dark chocolate chips • handful of vegan marshmallows (optional) Assemble jars with cocoa powder, then coconut sugar, chocolate chips and top off with marshmallows. I make a handwritten tag with instruction on the back, which adds a personalized touch. 34
Cross Timbers Lifestyle | December 2017
Need a gift idea? Or just a little boozy cocktail to get you in the holiday spirit? This Fernet Hot Chocolate makes a perfect gift, or treat for yourself, this holiday and winter season. Fernet is an Italian amaro and digestif. During my trip to Italy this summer, I fell deeply in love with this digestif as a shot to have after a meal to settle the stomach. Not only is it delicious, but it works. Fernet has a blend of herbs that have notes of saffron, myrrh, rhubarb, chamomile and cardamom. It makes a lovely pairing with hot chocolate. This gift set makes 8-10 cups of hot chocolate with your favorite nut milk or milk. The fernet mini bottle is perfect for one drink. Other recommendations are bourbon or tequila. Cheers & Happy Holidays. AmongtheColors.com
FOR COOKING
FOR SERVING
Heat cocoa powder, sugar and chips in nut butter. Stir often.
Bourbon whipped cream (optional)
One tablespoon of each dry ingredient
Just whip cream with tablespoon of sugar and tablespoon
for each cup of milk.
of bourbon to half cup of cream.
December 2017 | Cross Timbers Lifestyle
35
Lifestyle Calendar
December
modern dance performance brings the outdoor wintery, snowy atmosphere indoors to ignite the spirits of children and adults alike with that wonderful sense of mystery and
DECEMBER 1-3, 8-10 & 15-17
coloring, writing letters to Santa, temporary
excitement that comes with the season. 7:30
"MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS"
tattoos and having pictures with Santa. Freshly
p.m Saturday and Sunday. Tickets: $17 for
GREATER LEWISVILLE
popped popcorn, cookies and hot chocolate
general admission, $15 for students and $10
COMMUNITY THEATER
are always served. 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
for children. ImpulseDanceProject.org.
present "Meet Me in St. Louis." It is the sum-
DECEMBER 2
DECEMBER 9
mer of 1903, and the Smith family eagerly
GINGERBREAD HOUSE DECORATING
CHRISTMAS PARADE &
anticipates the opening of the 1904 World’s
COMMUNITY ACTIVITY CENTER
TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY
Fair. Over the course of a year, the family’s
Create holiday memories by joining other
SPINKS ROAD, FLOWER MOUND
mutual respect, tempered with good-natured
families to build gingerbread houses, featur-
Join Flower Mound in celebrating its 28th
humor, helps them through romance, oppor-
ing many different decorating materials and
Annual Christmas Parade! This year's theme
tunity and heartbreaks. Shows are 8 p.m. Fri-
holiday treats. Preregistration is required. $24
will be "Christmas Around the World." The pa-
days and Saturdays and 3 p.m. Sundays.
for members, $26 for nonmembers per gin-
rade will feature lighted floats parading down
gerbread house. 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Spinks Road to Gerault Park. At Gerault Park,
there will be a tree lighting ceremony with
Greater Lewisville Community Theater will
DECEMBER 2 BREAKFAST WITH SANTA
DECEMBER 8-10 & 15-17
COMMUNITY ACTIVITY CENTER
"A CHRISTMAS STORY"
riage rides, kids activities, petting zoo, local
Enjoy a magical breakfast with Santa as chil-
CAMPUS THEATER & POINTBANK
vendors, food trucks and more. 6 p.m.
dren make wish lists and sit on Santa's lap.
BLACK BOX
Don't forget to bring a camera for photos with
Set in the Midwest in the 1940s, this memoir
DECEMBER 16
Santa! Pre-registration is required. Children
of 9-year-old Ralphie Parker follows his quest
CHRISTMAS WITH THE
up to 10 years with adults. Children fee: $5
to get a genuine Red Ryder BB gun for Christ-
LEWISVILLE CIVIC CHORALE
for members, $6 for nonmembers; adult fee:
mas. Faithful to the motion picture, the re-
MCL GRAND THEATER
$7 for members, $8 for nonmembers. 8 a.m.
sponse he keeps getting is, “You’ll shoot your
The performance will include beloved Christ-
to 9 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
eye out.” Celebrate the season with Ralphie,
mas songs such as "Christmas Time is Here,"
his family, and even the school bully in this
"The Christmas Song," "The Christmas Waltz"
holiday favorite. Ticket prices range $10-$22.
as well as many much-loved Christmas carols.
DentonCommunityTheatre.com
The highlight for the Chorale will be perform-
DECEMBER 2 19TH ANNUAL MOTORCYCLE TOY RUN LEWISVILLE CITY HALL
choir performances, pictures with Santa, car-
ing "Ave Maria" by Franz Biebel. Tickets: $15
Riders will gather in front of Lewisville City Hall.
DECEMBER 8
The Toy Run will proceed on a bike procession
CHRISTMAS HOME TOUR
$5 for students. To purchase tickets, visit
throughout Lewisville that begins in Old Town
BRIDLEWOOD GOLF CLUB
LewisvilleCivicChorale.com. 7 p.m.
Lewisville and ends at Maverick-Harley David-
The Women of Flower Mound will be host-
son in Carrollton. After-ride festivities will con-
ing a Home for the Holidays Christmas home
DECEMBER 22
tinue at Maverick-Harley Davidson. A new, un-
tour featuring four beautifully decorated
TEXAS SMOOTH GROOVE
wrapped toy with a minimum $10 value should
homes. Registration will begin at 9 a.m. where
HOLIDAY CONCERT
be brought by each rider. All toys and monetary
you will check in and receive your tour map.
MCL GRAND THEATER
donations will go to local charities.
Tours will be from 10 a.m. to noon. Following
The Texas Smooth Groove Holiday Con-
the tour, there will be a delicious luncheon
cert will feature Tom Braxton, Mark Harp-
and silent auction at Bridlewood Golf Club.
er, Fingerprints and Toni Redd. The event
WomenOfFlowerMound.org
will include smooth jazz and holiday favor-
DECEMBER 2 SANTA IN HIGHLAND VILLAGE HIGHLAND VILLAGE FIRE STATION
for adults, $30 for a family, $10 for seniors and
ites. The show starts at 7 p.m. and a VIP
Every year, with the help of the Highland Vil-
DECEMBER 9 & 10
lage Firefighter's Association, Santa makes a
IMPULSE DANCE PROJECT - "SNOW"
$30 in advance/$40 at the door, after-par-
visit to the Highland Village Fire Department
MCL GRAND THEATER
ty: $30 performance and after-party: $55
so children can make their requests for Christ-
imPULSE dance project brings you the fourth
in advance/$60 at the door. To purchase
mas. Activities range from bounce houses,
annual production of "Snow." The candlelit
tickets, visit DelamarMarketing.com.
36
Cross Timbers Lifestyle | December 2017
after-party will start at 9:30 p.m. Tickets:
High Performance Custom Homes
3 lots left in Highland Village or We Can Build On Your Lot.
214.636.5064 SterlingBrookHomes.com
December 2017 | Cross Timbers Lifestyle
37
Parting Thoughts
7. 6.
1.
2.
How to Make a Ribbon Wreath
3.
ARTICLE CATHY BARNHARDT
T
his is a great way to repurpose ribbons from past Christmases, making an elegant deco-
ration for your holiday celebration. Coordinate
colors with your Christmas theme or with your home’s interior design to create a festive and stylish seasonal design. Have fun and be creative!
5.
4.
YOU WILL NEED: • A 14” straw or Styrofoam wreath form found at floral and craft stores • Around 12 yards each of 4 different but coordinating ribbons of varying widths and textures • A chenille stem to make the hanger, found at craft stores (looks like a pipe cleaner) • About 50 to 75 fern pins, found at floral and craft stores (looks like a long staple or hairpin)
INSTRUCTIONS:
Next, twist the chenille stem around the wreath to form a hanger (Fig. 3). Now, create several bows of various ribbons, with the loops being about the same size. Leave the tie ends as single “tails” and cut the loose ends into a swallow tail. You may also create single loops and tails to fill in between bows (Fig. 4). Pin the bows and loops and tails onto the covered wreath form with the fern pins, pushing the pins through the center point of the bow or end of the loop and tail (Fig. 5).
First wrap the entire wreath form with a wider and simpler length of
Continue adding bows and loops and tails until all but the back
ribbon. Attach one end of the ribbon to the back of the form with two
surface of the wreath form is covered. The closer the bows, the fuller
of the fern pins pushed at a slight angle through the ribbon and into
and fluffier the wreath will appear, but don’t crowd them so much that
the form to secure (Fig. 1). Then tightly spiral the ribbon, overlapping
the wreath looks stiff and tight (Fig. 6).
slightly, and continue to wrap the form to cover, attaching the end with two more of the fern pins, securing tightly (Fig. 2). 38
Cross Timbers Lifestyle | December 2017
Be sure to hang your wreath indoors unless you have used weatherproof ribbons (Fig. 7).
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