Memorial, TX December 2019

DECEMBER 2019

LifestylePubs.com/Memorial

H-TOWN HOLIDAY TRADITIONS A STORY OF HOPE SET AND MEET YOUR 2020 GOALS

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

DECEMBER 2019 PUBLISHER

Andy Patel | andy.patel@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Nadine Parker | nadine.parker@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Matthew Endersbe

For Auld Lang Syne WHAT A YEAR! As one of the newest members of Memorial Lifestyle, this last quarter has gone by in a blur. It’s hard to believe we’ve put together my first issue and the team’s final issue of Memorial Lifestyle in 2019 and well into planning 2020!

There’s a unique perspective that working in publishing brings. While we certainly don’t want to wish our lives away, we’re always looking toward the future. Whether

LAYOUT DESIGNER

Kelsey Proctor COPY EDITOR

Kate Baxendale CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Tristan Thibodeau, MSN, INHC CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Stephanie Adams, Fulton Davenport, PWL Studio, Joel P. Johnson, Lynn Lane, Nadine Parker, Amitava Sarkar

it’s planning our next issue or developing story ideas for the next year, we’re often already fast-forwarded to future months before the current month has even begun.

The fast-paced lifestyle this industry calls for can often make it difficult to really settle down and absorb what’s going on around us and, before we know it, the year is over and it’s time to move forward again.

So this December, we hope you take the time to slow down a little bit. With the holiday season upon us, we hope you make the time to take it all in. Enjoy your time with family and friends, bask in the magic of the winter season, reflect on past

CORPORATE TEAM

memories you hold closely in your hearts and keep the new ones you create in the

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

present for as long as you can.

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

We’ll take your lead, and we can’t wait to see you next year!

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

Happy Holidays, Memorial!

EDITORIAL MANAGER Nicolette Martin AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Nadine Parker, Editorial Coordinator

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

ON THE COVER Houston Ballet Principal Karina González as Sugar Plum Fairy with Artists of Houston Ballet in Stanton Welch’s

Proverbs 3:5-6

The Nutcracker.

Memorial Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via

PHOTO BY AMITAVA SARKAR (2018),

and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of

COURTESY OF HOUSTON BALLET 4

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

LifestylePubs.com/Memorial

Memorial Lifestyle | December 2019

the US Postal Service to some of the Memorial areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles 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 Memorial Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Janean Partridge

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December 2019 | Memorial Lifestyle

5

INSIDE THE ISSUE DECEMBER 2019

FEATURES 14 Tasty Holiday Treats Scrumptious Recipes to Warm and Delight from Chef Nicole McEachern of Niche Catering

20 Achieve Your 2020 Goals Like a Pro Learn How to Set and Achieve Goals in 3 Easy Steps from Empowerment Coach Tristan Thibodeau

24 No Expiration Date Required A Story of Inspiration and Hope

24 14

26 Houston Holiday Traditions Establish New Family Traditions with These Houston Favorites

20

26

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

12

Around Town

14

Culinary Creations

18

Travel Destination

24 Giving Back 26 Local Limelight 28 Water & Woods 32 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Financial Buzz

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GOOD TIMES

Tailgate for Tots On Oct. 5, Friends of DePelchin, the young professionals group supporting DePelchin Children’s Center, raised $21,079 through the annual Tailgate for Tots event featuring a tailgate-style brunch, silent auction and a wine pull. This year’s event was held at McIntyre’s located in the Shady Acres neighborhood of the Heights.

1.

Bayou City Arts Festival The 48th Bayou City Art Festival featured artist Clifton Henri, an award-winning photographer and visual artist from Chicago. Henri, along with 300 artists from around the country, representing 19 different disciplines, showcased their art at Bayou City Art Festival Downtown. The festival benefits local art organizations and nonprofits.

1. Bayou City Art Festival featured artist Clifton Henri

8

Memorial Lifestyle | December 2019

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GOOD TIMES

Susan G Komen Race for the Cure Susan G. Komen Houston hosted the 29th Annual Komen Houston Race for the Cure, featuring a 5K Run, 5K Walk and Kids K in downtown Houston, culminating with the Survivor Celebration in Sam Houston Park. There were more than 13,000 people in attendance, including participants, spectators, sponsors and volunteers. The event raised $1.2 million as of Oct. 30.

Houston Ballet Nutcracker Market The Houston Ballet Nutcracker Market is an annual fundraiser benefiting the Houston Ballet Foundation, its Academy, and scholarship programs. It highlighted more than 260 merchants from across the country and featured unique gift items, including home décor, gourmet food, apparel, toys, candles, jewelry, novelties, accessories and more.

These beautiful photos are provided by Fulton Davenport, PWL Studios , Courtesy Nutcracker Market

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Memorial Lifestyle | December 2019

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AROUND TOWN the United States, The Victory Cup has become known as “America’s Polo Match!”

Kid and pet-friendly, bring the entire family.

Come on out and enjoy a gorgeous day of green grass, new friends, majestic horses, heart pounding polo, dozens of food and alcohol partners, and (weather permitting) beautiful hot air balloons!

ULLOA DESIGN GROUP Carlos Ulloa, Owner of Ulloa Design Group, has been designing, building and remodeling inspirational homes in Houston, Texas for over twenty years. Always striving to exceed his clients’ expectations, his work is commonly classified as modern, sleek and elegantly functional with a critical eye for finer details often missing other builders.

One of his design talents, seamlessly integrating modern elements into classic architectural styles, is showcased by this modern farmhouse. Masterful

Houston Ballet Principal Melody Mennite as Clara in Stanton Welch’s The Nutcracker.

Photo by Amitava Sarkar (2018), Courtesy of Houston Ballet

HOUSTON BALLET’S THE NUTCRACKER

use of space and a pleasing color scheme play

Whimsy, imagination and adventure fill the stage

together with the different surface materials and

and the hearts of more than 75,000 ballet goers

textures to strike just the right harmonic balance.

during each annual production run. You don’t have to

For your own new showpiece or transformative

know a pas de bourrée from a jeté to appreciate this

remodel, contact Ulloa Design Group.

ballet, but those that do still return each season to relive the magic during one of the 37 performances.

Photo provided by “The Victory Cup”

VICTORY CUP HOUSTON In its 15th year, this event isn’t just a polo match

12

Photo by Stephanie Adams Courtesy of the Houston Zoo

HOUSTON ZOO LIGHTS

it’s a networking and social destination drawing

TXU Energy presents Zoo Lights at the Houston

thousands for each event. With events throughout

Zoo has become a favorite holiday tradition for

Memorial Lifestyle | December 2019

many Houstonians. Zoo Lights is the perfect setting to enjoy the sights and sounds of the season as you wander through the beautifully lit Houston Zoo. In its eighth season, this year’s event promises to be more spectacular than ever with exciting new light shows, displays and attractions, as well as a few returning favorites.

The Company in the Alley Theatre’s production of A Christmas Carol - A Ghost Story of Christmas, adapted and originally directed by Michael Wilson, directed by James Black. Photo by Lynn Lane.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL The Alley Theatre and Rob Melrose, Artistic Director of the Tony Award-winning Alley Theatre, announce the cast and creative team of Alley’s hol-

CONNELLY, RECEIVES LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

iday tradition, A Christmas Carol - A Ghost Story of Christmas. Under the direction of James Black, Resident Acting Company Member David Rainey

George W. Connelly, Jr., a shareholder in the

steps into the role as Ebenezer Scrooge. He joins

Houston office of law firm Chamberlain Hrdlicka,

the Resident Acting Company and more than 40

was recognized among the recipients of Texas

local cast members for an imaginative re-telling

Lawyer’s 2019 Professional Excellence Awards

of Charles Dickens’ classic story, which follows

in the Lifetime Achievement category. Connelly

Ebenezer Scrooge’s journey with the three ghostly

is recognized as one of the leading federal tax

apparitions who visit him on Christmas Eve.

litigators in the United States focusing on IRS audit, collection, and criminal matters including civil and criminal tax litigation matters for individuals, companies and estates. In a distinguished career spanning five decades, he has achieved more than 75 reported opinions in tax cases and received numerous honors and awards.

We are always accepting submissions for announcements you’d like to see included in our Around Town section. Submissions are accepted via the Contact Us tab at LifestylePubs.com/Memorial.

December 2019 | Memorial Lifestyle

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CULINARY CREATIONS

TASTY HOLIDAY TREATS SCRUMPTIOUS RECIPES TO WARM AND DELIGHT FROM CHEF NICOLE MCEACHERN OF NICHE CATERING

PHOTOGRAPHY NADINE PARKER

PORT FRENCH ONION SOUP WITH BRIE CROSTINI INGREDIENTS + 1 stick unsalted butter (8 tablespoons) + 1 tablespoon olive oil + 4 pounds yellow onions thin sliced + 2 tablespoons garlic + 1 cup dry white wine + 2 tablespoons Worcestershire + 2 quarts low sodium beef broth + 1 large bay leaf + 8 sprigs thyme + Black pepper + 3/4 cup port wine + Kosher salt to taste + 1 French Baguette + 1 stick butter (salted, melted) + 1 wheel of Brie (8 ounces), preferably double cream and cold

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Memorial Lifestyle | December 2019

SOUP DIRECTIONS: 1. Melt butter in large pot on medium-low heat with olive oil. Add the onion and sauté for 30-45 minutes with a lid partially on stirring occasionally to prevent burning. After the onion has reached a rich dark amber hue, add the garlic, followed by the white wine, Worcestershire and broth. Then add the bay leaf, thyme and black pepper. Allow to simmer for about 10-15 minutes to develop the flavor of the soup.

2. In a separate saucepot, simmer the port wine for about 3-5 min to cook out some of the alcohol before adding to the soup. Be careful to avoid spillage as the alcohol will catch flame. You may also pour it right into the soup. Season to taste with kosher salt, stir and remove from heat.

CROSTINI DIRECTIONS: 1. Slice baguette at an angle about 1 inch thick. Brush melted butter on each slice and toast at 400 degrees for about 4-6 minutes until golden and toasted.

2. Remove top, bottom and side rinds of the Brie wheel much like removing the rind of an orange. Careful not to take away too much from the cheese. Slice the cold Brie lengthwise into 1/4 inch slices. Place slices of Brie onto the toasted baguette slivers.

Bake on a sheet pan in the oven for about 2 min or until melted.

3. Garnish over the French onion soup lengthwise or like a spoon partially dipped into the soup.

CONTINUED >

December 2019 | Memorial Lifestyle

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CULINARY CREATIONS

(CON TI N U ED)

PRALINE PECAN CROISSANT BREAD PUDDING WITH WHISKY CARAMEL SAUCE INGREDIENTS + 5 eggs

+ 1 cup brown sugar

+ 1 quart heavy cream

+ 9-10 large stale croissants

+ 1 cup milk

+ 2 cups praline pecans, chopped

+ 2 tablespoons vanilla

+ 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter

+ 1/4 teaspoon salt

+ 4 ounces heavy cream

+ 3 cups granulated sugar

+ 2 ounces Whisky

BREAD PUDDING DIRECTIONS: 1. Pre-heat oven to 375 degrees.

2. Whisk the eggs until well blended. In a separate bowl whisk the heavy cream, milk, vanilla, 1/8 teaspoon salt, 2 cups granulated sugar and brown sugar. Incorporate the eggs into the cream mixture.

3. Spray a deep-dish baking pan with non-stick spray. Cut the croissants into bite size pieces and add to pan. Pour the cream mix over the croissant pieces, stir or toss until completely covered. Absorption will vary depending upon staleness of croissants. Add the chopped praline pecans and toss to fully cover every cube in liquid and mix in the pecans. Add more liquid if needed. There should be a little extra liquid in the pan to keep the bread moist.

4. Spray foil with non-stick liquid and cover pan tightly to prevent sticking as it rises. Place the bread pudding on a sheet pan and fill the sheet pan with water. The water bath helps the cooking process. Cook for 50 min - 70 min. It will be done when it puffs up like a soufflé. Uncover slowly to manage any sticking. Any cream mix on top should be creamy like a creme brûlée texture, not liquid. Let it rest for about 10-15 min.

5. While the pudding is cooking prepare the Whisky Caramel Sauce

WHISKY CARAMEL SAUCE DIRECTIONS: 1. Heat 1 cup granulated sugar in a medium sauce pan over medium heat. Use a wooden or heat safe spatula or spoon to continuously stir as the sugar melts. Any clumps will eventually melt down.

The sugar will turn into an amber color as it melts. Once it has completely melted, add the butter. It will begin to bubble. Stir until completely melted. Slowly pour the heavy cream into the sugar butter mixture. It will bubble rapidly as you add the cold liquid. Let it bubble and rise for about 1 minute and then remove from heat.

Add whisky and 1/8 teaspoon salt then stir. You may boil the whisky to evaporate the alcohol or add directly. Serve warm or set aside

SEE A DELICIOUS ALTERNATIVE

uncovered until cool to store.

BREAD PUDDING RECIPE ONLINE.

2. Brush the top of the bread pudding with the whisky caramel sauce while still hot.

16

Memorial Lifestyle | December 2019

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TRAVEL DESTINATION

T

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY NADINE PARKER

TRAVEL THROUGH TIME, EXPLORE THE ARTSY SIDE OF HOUSTON OR TAKE IN MOTHER NATURE

A K E A

H I K E

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Memorial Lifestyle | December 2019

T I M E T R AV E L Take a voyage through time exploring one of many historic sites throughout the city. You can learn about history while getting some exercise. Why not start at the landing place of the founders of Houston, the Allen brothers? Market Square Park is once again a thriving gathering place for locals and visitors alike and home to beautiful walkways, dog runs and Niko Niko’s. Don’t stop there; visit the Bayou City Park Cistern located off Sabine Street. It once served as the City of Houston’s drinking water reserve. If you plan, you can catch one of the art exhibits inside or book it for an almost surreal private event. Let’s not forget to take an intergalactic journey at the Space Center Houston or get a personal perspective on the contributions of our veterans at the Lone Star Air Museum or at the Battleship Texas State Historic Site. These will just get you started. Houston is full of historical sites.

A R T + C U LT U R E Everywhere you look in Houston, you’ll find art. I highly recommend the art museums, ballet, symphony and theatre, but you don’t need to go inside to see amazing art in our city. Smithers Park and the adjacent Orange Show is the result of contributions of over 300 artists. Its colorful and inviting permanent exhibits is the perfect setting for picnics, events or relaxation and meditation. On practically every corner you’ll see results of the Traffic Signal Control Cabinet (TSCC) Art Program as various artists share their talents on our signal boxes. Houstonians are passionate about art as you can see from these and many other art parks and exhibits not to mention private displays around town.

N AT U R E Home to more than 366 parks and 200 green spaces (that’s just the ones managed by the Houston Parks and Recreation Department) you’ll never run out of places to explore. Memorial and Herman Parks encompass nearly 2,000 acres and include trails, playing fields, and picnic areas among other things. The Houston Arboretum is home to various plant species and a nature lovers paradise. You’ll almost surely see a variety of birds, snakes, insects and turtles. And don’t forget miles of trails interlaced throughout the entire city just waiting for Houston to take a hike.

December 2019 | Memorial Lifestyle

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ARTICLE TRISTAN THIBODEAU, MSN, INHC PHOTOGRAPHY NADINE PARKER

ACHIEVE YOUR 2020 GOALS LIKE A PRO LEARN HOW TO SET AND ACHIEVE GOALS IN 3 EASY STEPS FROM EMPOWERMENT COACH TRISTAN THIBODEAU

DO YOU WANT TO IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH IN 2020? Then it’s best to set goals that are truly meaningful to you by utilizing a holistic perspective. The framework of holistic health allows you to get a birds-eye view of how different facets of your life are impacting your overall health and well-being. If you’ve ever noticed that your sleep suffers when you are stressed from work or family, then you have experienced a prime example of how issues in one area of your life impact another.

There are two effective methods I utilize in my coaching practice to help my clients set meaningful goals. First, use the Holistic Wheel of Wellness activity to determine what areas of your life need some extra TLC and then we will move on to how you can transform these deficits in a simple, yet impactful way!

STEP 1: Within each section on the Holistic Wheel of Wellness (see opposite page), place a dot where you feel best describes your level of satisfaction. A dot closer to the center indicates dissatisfaction and a dot closer to the outer edge indicates satisfaction.

Once you have rated all of the facets, connect the dots with a line to create your Holistic Wheel of Wellness. Select the area you are least satisfied for Step 2 of goal setting.

20

Memorial Lifestyle | December 2019

STEP 2: Once you have selected the area of your life for improvement, take some time to reflect on what is causing you the most dissatisfaction within that arena. Then set specific, measurable, assignable, relevant, and time-based goals (SMART goals).

Example

of

Defined

Area

for

Improvement: I struggle managing my stress and I often notice that it is the most intense when I get home from work and try to unwind. I can’t stop thinking about my to-do list and work that is awaiting me tomorrow. + S: Specific — In order to take action towards a goal, it needs to be very detailed and specific. What do you want to accomplish? Who is involved? What steps are needed to accomplish this goal? Example: Reduce stress in the evening by getting in 20 minutes of exercise, followed by 10 minutes of deep breathing exercises. + M: Measurable – Tracking a goal is so important in assessing not only your commitment but also your progress. Keeping track of how many days you hit your goal will help you to revise a goal that maybe

wasn’t specific enough for it to be measurable. Example: I will place a checkmark on the calendar every day that I get in 20 minutes of exercise and 10 minutes of deep breathing exercises. + A: Achievable – You want to feel excited by your goal, not intimidated. Most individuals do well setting a benchmark that will CONTINUED >

December 2019 | Memorial Lifestyle

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ACHIEVE YOUR 2020 GOALS LIKE A PRO

(CON TI N UED)

challenge your commitment but not break your back in the process of accomplishing it. This is an opportunity to check back in with yourself and adjust any unrealistic expectations. Example: I will reduce stress in the evening by getting in 20 minutes of exercise each day, followed by 5 minutes of deep breathing exercises instead of 10. + R: Relevant – Setting a goal just because you think you should doesn’t set you up for success and can impede your willingness to put in the effort to set another goal in the future. This is an opportunity to review S-M-A and make sure that the goal you set is going to provide benefits to your life in a meaningful way! Including why you are setting the goal into the wording of the goal will help you get more invested in taking action! Example: I want to reduce work-related stress in the evening so that I can spend quality time with my family without feeling distracted and get a good night’s sleep so that I can feel refreshed and energized for the next day. + T Time-based – Setting a deadline for yourself will help keep you on track and will also motivate you to take daily action towards your goal. If you really want to hold yourself accountable to your goal, share your goal and deadline with a friend, co-worker, or family member and ask them to check in with you regularly about how your goal is going. Example: After 10 days, I will be hitting my goal on 3/7 days a week. After 20 days, I will be hitting my goal 5/7 days a week.

After 30 days, I will be hitting my goal 7/7 days.

STEP 3: Time to string all the pieces together! Once you have completed Step 2 and are satisfied, motivated and determined to get started, write out the entire SMART goal in its entirety and post it places where you will see it regularly. This helps you not only remember the goal but will also help to hold you accountable to take action! Set reminders in your phone, put post-it notes around your house and get to work on creating meaningful change in your life, the holistic way!

Good luck and go get ’em, tiger!

22

Memorial Lifestyle | December 2019

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GIVING BACK

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY NADINE PARKER

no expiration date required A STORY OF INSPIRATION AND HOPE 24

Memorial Lifestyle | December 2019

M

EET MARGARET KELLY, A BEAUTIFUL LADY WITH A DELIGHTFUL SMILE AND A CON-

Early detection is the key to

TAGIOUS LAUGH. She loves to be outdoors: walking, exercising, traveling or simply working

winning the fight against breast

in the yard. She regularly spends time in the gym doing cardio and lifting weights. She loves the

cancer. Partner up with your

water and spends as much time as possible in Cabo when not busy with her career as a Senior

friends, work buddies, and family

Travel Manager. She’s also a fighter and two-time breast cancer survivor.

to hold each other accountable

She was diagnosed in 2000 with stage 3 breast cancer and then faced it again with ear-

for monthly self-exams and annual

ly-stage in 2014. At first, she went with the doctors she knew and trusted, and after five doc-

mammograms. Have fun with it by

tors and six months of misdiagnosis, she was told by MD Anderson that it had spread. She

wearing pink on an established

was in shock. She leaned on family and friends and during the first week of being diagnosed,

day to show you completed yours.

she was introduced to Healed of Cancer by Dodie Osteen. That’s where she found hope and purpose. She was never given her death sentence, X years to live and never wanted it. She didn’t want to focus on her expiration date. She was determined to fight and win.

She had prayed for a ministry but didn’t count on being drafted to this service. “Once you have cancer, you’re part of a club and you can choose what you want to do with it”. Margaret decided to be a beacon. “It’s your responsibility to reach out to others to provide hope and support”, and that’s just what she does.

She says since her diagnosis, she feels like a magnet and openly and freely shares her story with anyone who needs to hear it. She also carries copies of Healed of Cancer with her wherever she goes and has gifted hundreds to date. She doesn’t consider herself anything special; she, “just does what she’s good at—talks to people,” but that’s where they gain courage. Strangers and friends alike are inspired by her fight to survive and find hope that, “if she can do it, so can we”.

In addition to her ministry, she started walking in the Susan G Komen Race in 2000 and has been a top fundraiser and Pink Honor Roll recipient for 15 years. To her, the race is not just about raising money for research and support, but also about the camaraderie and support. Knowing you have all those people on your side and fighting with you, provides strength and hope.

She doesn’t have a magical cure, but she does offer something to all who meet her, hope, and a little advice: + First and foremost, prevention and detection. Ensure you do your monthly self-exams and regular mammograms. + Once you’re diagnosed: - Fight, and fight hard right out of the gate. Go to the best treatment centers and make sure it’s someone who specializes in your type of cancer.

- Stay strong and have faith. Don’t give up!

- Don’t try it alone. Reach out to your support group be it family, friends, place of worship, Susan G Komen, or other organizations that can connect you to others.

December 2019 | Memorial Lifestyle

25

LOCAL LIMELIGHT David Rainey as Ebenezer Scrooge in the Alley Theatre’s production of A Christmas Carol - A Ghost Story of Christmas. Photo by Joel P. Johnson

WHEN THE COOLER WEATHER FINALLY

COMES

AROUND,

HOUSTONIANS GO OUTSIDE TO PLAY. Starting in October it seems as if there are multiple festivals and events every weekend. But there’s nothing quite like December in Houston. All around the city, holiday decorations are out, family and friends gather at their favorite restaurants, and shoppers are trying to find that perfect gift. But if you need a break

Houston Holiday Traditions ESTABLISH NEW FAMILY TRADITIONS WITH THESE HOUSTON FAVORITES

ARTICLE NADINE PARKER WITH ORGANIZATIONAL CONTRIBUTION | PHOTOGRAPHY JOEL P. JOHNSON; STEPHANIE ADAMS

26

Memorial Lifestyle | December 2019

from the hustle and bustle let one of these Houston holiday venues transport you to another place and time. They’ve been around for as many as 47 years and every year they get better and better.

/02

Houston Zoo Lights Over the holidays, the Houston Zoo has been transformed into a fantasy wonderland for eight years. Earth-friendly LED lighting illuminates the ancient oak trees and decorates the paths to light your way. Visitors stroll through the park, sipping hot chocolate and taking in the sights and sounds of the season. This year is even brighter! Stroll through a 100-foot-long Infinity Tunnel of Light presented by KSBJ, experience the 4-D Enchanted Forest presented by King & Spalding LLP, see a giant Ice Dragon come to life and experience “snow” in Winter Wonderland.

/03

Photo by Stephanie Adams Courtesy of Houston Zoo

/0 1

A Christmas Ca rol

H o u s t o n B a l l e t ’s The Nutcracker Locals

have

been

captivated

by

Houston Ballet’s The Nutcracker since 1972. Spectators are swept away in this magical journey as they follow Clara to fight the mouse king and then on to the

2019 marks 30 years of A Christmas Carol. This year is the 15th

land of the sweets. You don’t need to be a

production of Michael Wilson’s adaptation, now under Artistic

ballet aficionado to appreciate the grace

Director Rob Melrose. Family audiences (children ages 6 and

and elegance the more than 400 dancers

older) can enjoy this colorful, comical and music-filled produc-

bring to the stage. The music enchants you

tion. Magical and heartwarming, this unforgettable theatrical

and the costumes and sets are a feast for

production of A Christmas Carol instills a powerful message

the eyes. This may be your first ballet, but it

about redemption and the true spirit of the holiday season.

certainly won’t be your last.

December 2019 | Memorial Lifestyle

27

WATER & WOODS

WINTER \IN BLOOM BRIGHTEN UP YOUR AESTHETIC THIS SEASON WITH THIS BEAUTIFUL FLORAL ARRANGEMENT FROM KRISTEN CAISSIE, CREATIVE DIRECTOR AND FOUNDER OF MOON CANYON DESIGN CO.

PHOTOGRAPHY NICKI SEBASTIAN FOR JENNI KAYNE

28

Memorial Lifestyle | December 2019

KRISTEN CAISSIE, CREATIVE DIRECTOR AND FOUNDER OF MOON CANYON DESIGN CO., created this beautiful flower arrangement as part of Jenni Kayne’s floral encyclopedia. This lush arrangement is comprised of early spring blooms arranged in a ceramic vase. The wabi-sabi aesthetic of the handmade vessel adds to the arrangement’s playful proportions. Earthy yellows, rich greens, and a touch of blue tell a color story that’s unexpected, yet warm and welcoming. Perfectly undone early spring blooms (Kristen’s favorite to design with) emphasize the meeting place of winter and spring.

CONTINUED >

December 2019 | Memorial Lifestyle

29

WATER & WOODS

(CON TI N U ED)

TWEEDIA LADY SLIPPER Characterized by the slippershaped pouch (or labellum) that sits between the petals, these orchids range in color from white and yellow to a deep pink and purple. The lady slipper might take four to sixteen years to produce a bloom, but it’s worth the wait— in comparison to other, more temperamental orchids, this type can be considered fairly low-maintenance.

RANUNCULUS Also known as the buttercup, these spring bloomers are coveted for their delicate layers of petals, resembling ruffled tissue or crepe.

In a wide range of vivid shades, ranunculus can bloom from late winter to early summer.

30

Memorial Lifestyle | December 2019

NARCISSUS Daffodils are instantly recognizable by their six petals surrounding a trumpet-like corona, most often in variances of white, yellow, or both. The ubiquity of the daffodil dates back to ancient times, both medicinally and botanically. They have been said to get their name because the image of languid daffodils along a stream evoke the image of Narcissus gazing into his reflection.

This delicate perennial is coveted for its light fragrance and pale blue star-shaped petals. Found commonly in vines and trellises, tweedias are prime for an arrangement as they cut well and last long.

“It’s very simple, we work with flowers because they speak to us...we tell the stories through a season, a composition, a poetic floral movement.”

KRISTEN CAISSIE MOON CANYON FOUNDER

December 2019 | Memorial Lifestyle

31

DECEMBER

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

NOV 15-DEC 29

as action figures, hot wheels, and

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

join us for this fun event, with raffles,

comic books. Come out and enjoy our spectacular toy and comic show,

The Hubbard Theatre

food and much more.

An imaginative re-telling of Charles

Free Admission.

three ghostly apparitions who visit him on Christmas Eve. Performances of A Christmas Carol are scheduled to begin Friday, Nov. 15 and will run through Sunday, Dec. 29.

Former Principal Pops Conductor

7

Michael Krajewski joins Symphony

HOUSTON ARBORETUM & NATURE CENTER: TREES & STARS WINTER CELEBRATION

the season. Hear a host of festive

and Chorus for a sparkling concert filled with the merry sounds of favorites,

including

the

Houston

Symphony commission Glad Tidings,

Houston Arboretum & Nature Center

a musical and narrative telling of the

NOV 23-JAN 12

Join the Arboretum and the Houston

Christmas story packed with classic

Astronomical Society for a winter

carols like What Child is This?, Silent

HOUSTON ZOO LIGHTS

celebration!

Night and Joy to the World.

Saint Arnold beer, Katz Coffee and

TXU

Energy

Enjoy

festive

food,

a hot chocolate bar inside. Outside,

Houston Zoo

Presents

Zoo

hike through the winter woods and

Lights. Experience the zoo in a dif-

look through telescopes to see the

ferent way. Earth-friendly LED light-

moon and stars.

ing transforms the zoo to a magical wonderland making it a great way to spend the evening with friends and family while celebrating the holiday.

NOV 29-DEC 29

12

14 HOUSTON SYMPHONY: ’TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS Jones Hall for the Performing Arts

’Twas the Night Before Christmas and

HOUSTON "WESTERN" CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HOLIDAY SOCIAL

all through Jones Hall, the Symphony played to delight one and all. Envision sugar plums, flying reindeer and a

The Ranch Office, 1220 Blalock Road,

sleigh filled with toys as the classic

Suite 300, Houston

HOUSTON BALLET’S THE NUTCRACKER

holiday story ‘Twas the Night Before

Come to the Houston "Western"

Christmas comes to life with live

Holiday

by

music and narration, plus sing along

Wortham Theater Center

the Houston West Chamber of

to festive favorites like “Rudolph the

Houston Ballet brings back one

Commerce. A Holiday party with

Red-Nosed Reindeer.”

of Houston’s most cherished hol-

music, networking, light bites, cock-

iday productions, The Nutcracker.

tails and Santa with a Hat in Boots!

Houston

Admission: $15 for members and

Ballet

Artistic

Director

Stanton Welch AM’s version of this

Social,

sponsored

$20 for nonmembers

timeless classic returns to the stage for its fourth year on Nov. 29, giving the public around a month of opportunities to experience this larger than life spectacular.

7

13-14 HOUSTON HOT AIR BALLOON FESTIVAL & VICTORY CUP POLO MATCH

14 HOUSTON ARBORETUM & NATURE CENTER: HOMEMADE HOLIDAYS Houston Arboretum & Nature Center

Natural elements can really spruce up your holiday decorations and gifts! With hands-on guidance and materials like grapevine, branches,

Houston

berries, and pinecones, you will

Houston's Only Hot Air Balloon Festival

create a wreath, ornaments, and

& Polo Match! Come on out and enjoy

handmade gifts. There’s something

a gorgeous day of green grass, majes-

so special and fun about creating

Thompson's Antique Center of Texas

tic horses, heart pounding polo, doz-

something with your own two hands

There will be 72 tables of antique,

ens of food and alcohol partners and

and making memories with your

vintage and collectible toys such

beautiful hot air balloons!

friends and family.

THE SPECTACULAR NW HOUSTON TOY SHOW

32

HOUSTON SYMPHONY: VERY MERRY POPS

Jones Hall for the Performing Arts

Dickens’ classic story, which follows Ebenezer Scrooge’s journey with the

13-15

Memorial Lifestyle | December 2019

20-22 HOUSTON SYMPHONY: HANDEL'S MESSIAH Jones Hall for the Performing Arts

This Christmas, be moved by Handel’s ever-glorious setting of the greatest story ever told. The Houston Symphony, chorus and guest soloists join forces to fill Jones Hall with joyous refrains and exultant arias, including the powerful “Hallelujah” Chorus. Conducted

by Nicholas McGegan.

21 HOUSTON ARBORETUM & NATURE CENTER: DIY CANDLES Houston Arboretum & Nature Center

Light up the darkest day of the year making your own beautiful candles! In this fun class, we’ll melt soy wax and mix in essential oils to make scented glass jar candles. We’ll also make hand-rolled beeswax candles with sculpted decorations. This is a great class for couples, families, friends or anyone who needs to make

• Complete line of food, cages and toys!

• Exotic birds • Boarding & grooming HOURS Tues / Wed / Fri / Sat 10am-6pm Thurs / Sun 11am-3pm CLOSED ON MONDAY

www.adventuresinbirdsinc.com 7414 Westview Dr., Houston, TX 77055

some beautiful last-minute gifts.

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$99 ENROLLMENT FEE We are always accepting submissions for events you'd like to see included in our Calendar section.

Submissions are accepted via the Contact Us tab at LifestylePubs.com/Memorial.

WAIVED

9630 Westheimer Road Houston, TX 77063

(713) 637-4246 TBC Westchase

December 2019 | Memorial Lifestyle

33

FINANCIAL BUZZ

CONTRIBUTING ADVISOR: Phillip Hammett, Wealth Strategist

1

of the Fitzpatrick Group CREATE A MONTHLY BUDGET Establish a monthly budget that is challenging but manageable and takes into consideration your sav-

ings and investment goals. Don’t forget to account for one-time expenses such as vacations, gifts, holidays and auto and home repairs. Not every month is the same!

5

Expert Financial Tips for Year End

START 2020 STRONG ARTICLE NADINE PARKER

34

Memorial Lifestyle | December 2019

2

START A PIGGY BANK Piggy banks aren’t just for the kiddos. Save your coins but focus on the

4

ELIMINATE UNKNOWN TRANSFERS OF WEALTH Review

your

budget

every

3-6

months. It’s easy to let things like

paper ($5s, $10s, $20s, $100s). At the

utilities, management fees and insurance

end of the year, break it open to reveal your

premiums proceed on autopilot. A quick call

bonus. You may be surprised to find you

to your provider or a coverage check by a

have enough money to cover that ski trip,

professional can yield substantial savings in

holiday party or special gift.

the long run!

3

PAY NOW OR PAY LATER Before you stash money into those

5

DON’T STRESS December is a time for many when spending seems to skyrocket out of control. Take note for next year’s bud-

401K’s, IRA’s and other tax-deferred

get but enjoy the events and camaraderie

accounts, do the math. Every dollar

of the holidays. Reach out to your financial

of income will be taxed eventually. Do you

advisor now to ensure you have a strong

prefer to pay at today’s known rate or tomor-

plan for 2020 and you can cruise into the

row’s unknown one?

new year with confidence.

T H E R E S E L A N DA

Broker-Ow ner

Multi-million Dollar Top Producer 25 Years of Full Time Practice Experience Fourth Generation Native Houstonian Area Specialist Philanthropist/ Social Influencer Cancer Survivor

Everything

She Touches Turns to Sold!

FOR SALE

9814 VOGUE

2602 ANNISTON DRIVE

10218 LONDONDERRY

W W W. H O U S T O N IA N P R O P E R T I E S . C O M

(713) 934-9599 • CELL/TEXT (281) 236-6348

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