All-inclusive independent retirement living is the gift that gives all year long! We take care of everything for one monthly price and no buy-in fee, so you can celebrate life every day. And by everything we mean:
Signature Freedom Dining Program
3 Fresh Chef-Prepared Meals Daily
Meal Delivery
24-Hour Chef Pantry/Bistro
Full Custom Kitchens!
Live-In Managers!
Month to Month Rental – No Long Term Lease!
Utilities, TV, Internet & Telephone
24-Hour Concierge & Valet Services
Therapy and Home Health On-Site
Weekly Housekeeping
Robust Social Calendar
And Many More!
Tis' the Season
Dear Readers,
December 2024
PUBLISHER
David Hayth | david.hayth@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Alexandra Hill | alexandra.hill@citylifestyle.com
The holiday season is here, and there’s a special kind of magic in the air! Lake Murray is aglow with lights, laughter, and the spirit of togetherness that makes this time of year so memorable. From our charming holiday markets to festive community gatherings, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the season with family and friends. I hope you’ll find a little time to get out, explore, and soak in all the fun our town has to offer. December is also a wonderful reminder of the power of kindness and giving. Whether it’s donating a toy, volunteering a bit of time, or simply sharing a warm smile, small acts make a big difference in our community. Let’s come together to brighten someone’s holiday and lift each other’s spirits. And, of course, I hope you enjoy every moment with loved ones. The laughter, the stories, and those simple traditions hold a special place in our hearts all year long. Here’s to a holiday filled with joy, gratitude, and memories that last! Wishing you a warm and wonderful season,
DAVID HAYTH, PUBLISHER @LAKEMURRAYLIFESTYLE
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
Making Spirits
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.com
CRAFTING CHEER:
DIY WINTER CRAFTS
ARTICLE BY ERICA BIBB PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
ORNAMENT CLUSTERS
SUPPLIES
• 22 gauge wire
• Ornaments of at least 3 varying shades and sizes
• Wire snips
STEP 1
Cut desired length of wire for a cluster, about 24”
STEP 2
Add an ornament about 4” from one end of the wire and twist the wire around the top of the ornament to provide a base for your cluster. Twist about 5 times. You should still have about 4” of wire at the end; you will need it to tie onto your garland, tree, or wreath.
STEP 3
Continue adding ornaments to the wire, alternating sizes and colors until you have 4-6” of wire remaining.
STEP 4
Twist the remaining wire around the top of your final ornament 5 times to secure all of your ornaments in place. Making sure to leave at least 4” of wire in place at the end in order to tie onto garland, tree, or wreath.
STEP 5
Use the ends of the wire to attach to your holiday item of choice!!
Pro tip: Keep your clusters to the 24” length to keep from getting too heavy and/or having ornaments pop off. Ornaments will pop off at times, but they will still look gorgeous and you can always glue the ornament back onto to the top. Simple, gorgeous, and impactful!
Kitchen Selections
Extensive line of unique faucets and sinks in a wide array of styles, finishes and shapes that will make a statement.
Bathroom Selections
Full complement of faucets, sinks, tubs, shower systems and vanities. The latest designs and unmatched quality.
Lighting Selections
Distinctive accent and task lighting possibilities to highlight your home’s beauty.
Hardware Selections & Accessories
A curated collection of hardware and accessories that will enhance your other selections.
Thank you for voting us Best Kitchen and Bath Store in Lake Murray Lifestyle Magazine.
CONFECTION
Elevate your holiday hot chocolate with a charcuterie experience
As winter settles in and the air chills, there’s nothing more comforting than a steaming cup of hot chocolate. Take it up a notch and indulge in a hot cocoa charcuterie board. Picture a delightful spread of various hot chocolate flavors, mix-ins, and toppings, inviting you to create a personalized, delicious mug of joy.
OLD-FASHIONED HOT COCOA
Ingredients
• ¼ cup 60% cacao chocolate morsels
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa
• 1/3 cup white granulated sugar
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups half and half
• 1 pinch salt
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Directions
Heat all ingredients (except vanilla extract) in a 2-quart saucepan over medium-low heat until almost boiling. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
CREATING THE PERFECT HOT COCOA CHARCUTERIE BOARD
Gone are the days of selecting only between marshmallows and whipped cream as toppings. With a hot cocoa charcuterie board, you can delve into a world of flavors, textures and spices that will make each sip an adventure.
Begin by selecting a variety of flavors and mix-ins, such as mini marshmallows, salted caramels, white chocolate morsels and peppermints. Pair your hot cocoa with delectable treats like cookies, gum drops, crème-filled wafer rolls or chocolate-covered espresso beans. Consider adding biscotti, chocolate-dipped spoons or chocolate-coated pretzels as well as whipped toppings and an assortment of sprinkles.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MINDY WESTER
HOLIDAY SPENDING Made Smart
HOW TO MAKE “THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR” GENTLER ON YOUR WALLET
ARTICLE BY ALISON STANTON
The holiday season can be a fun time filled with family get-togethers, festive decorations, cookie baking and other merry moments.
It can also be a spendy time of year, especially when it comes to gift-giving.
If you are hoping to make this holiday season more budget-friendly than in years past, the following tips may help:
TIP 1:
HAVE AN HONEST TALK WITH YOUR KIDS
Your kids’ wish lists might be longer than the Declaration of Independence, but take heed. According to Whyzz, research has found that what kids really want for the holidays are enjoyable family traditions, relaxing days with people who love them, and a few gifts.
Interestingly, research also shows that kids have pretty reasonable expectations on how many gifts they will receive, as well as how much money will be spent on them.
With this in mind, before you start your holiday shopping, Whyzz advises sitting down with your kids and letting them know how much you have to spend on gifts this year. Be upfront about what they can expect, and encourage each child to suggest one larger gift or perhaps a few smaller ones that will fit into your budget.
TIP 2:
FIND CREATIVE WAYS TO TRIM THE HOLIDAY BUDGET
Buying presents for lots of friends and family members can really add up. To trim back your spending, Nerd Wallet suggests that people draw names to help lower the number of gifts you’ll purchase, and/or proposing a budget-friendly price limit for each person.
Other ways to pare back your holiday spending include asking family to come visit this season, rather than you booking costly airline trips and paying for hotels; or choosing just one seasonal play, performance, carnival or other event to attend, rather than several.
You can also challenge your kids to come up with ideas for inexpensive and fun things to do as a family. You might
find that your child’s suggestion of filling travel mugs with cocoa and heading out in the car to admire the many amazing holiday displays is a fun and memorable experience.
TIP 3:
ENCOURAGE GIFT RECIPIENTS TO TELL YOU WHAT THEY TRULY WANT OR NEED
Another way to make your holiday spending smarter than ever this year is to purchase gifts that your loved ones truly need. At times, this might involve thinking outside of the gift box a bit, and that’s okay.
Ask each person on your list for ideas, and let them know it’s okay if it’s not a “traditional” gift. For instance, maybe your aunt would love it if you paid for her Netflix subscription for a couple of months, your college-aged nephew could really use a gift card to Amazon or Target, and your grandpa would really be thrilled if you took him out to lunch once the busy holidays are over.
TIP 4:
TRY TO AVOID IMPULSE SPENDING ON “DEALS”
Yes, Black Friday typically features amazing deals on a wide selection of items. But unless you are really sure that one of your gift recipients wants that mega-marked-down item, try to resist succumbing to the temptation of these sales. Buying something just because it’s a terrific price is a sure way to bust that newly-trimmed down budget, and you might end up with gifts that were a great price, but not really useful to anyone on your list.
Here’s to a jolly holiday season filled with special moments, and smart spending!
1. Combine all ingredients, shake vigorously and pour over crushed ice.
2. Garnish with lemon wheel & cranberries.
that’s a WRAP
DIY Gift Wrapping That Stands Out During
The Season
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
‘Tis the season to get crafty, clever or characterized! Wellwrapped holiday packages create immediate enthusiasm and somehow seem to make gifts more meaningful. Whether going for shiny, vintage, colorful, rustic, playful or eco-friendly impressions, the following are some Do-It-Yourself gift-wrapping ideas to make the wrapping process even more satisfying. Simply applying jute twine to gifts provides a ‘less is more’ vibe.
ADD NATURAL TOUCHES TO CRAFT PAPER:
For gifts with a rustic, organic feel, use seasonal accents, such as sprigs, pine cones and cinnamon sticks, tied up with twine, encircling recycled paper for the wrapping.
FIRST INITIAL DECORATION:
In lieu of a gift tag, attach an oversized paper mâché letter of the recipient’s first initial to the top of the box. The letter then can serve as customized décor, too.
POLKA DOTS:
Wrap gifts in plain craft paper and then cut out big, multicolored polka dots to glue down. It’s hard not to smile at big, bright dots.
CARDBOARD BOX SNOWPERSON:
Wrap three or four boxes in white paper, with different gifts inside, and then stack them. Tape the boxes together,
the SEASON
tapering to the top. Glue buttons on the bottom ones, create a snowperson’s face on the top one, with carrot nose cut out of orange paper. Attach a real hat, if desired. Tie wider, festive bow around the snowperson’s ‘neck.’ Add a real corncob pipe for a bonus finishing touch, if preferred.
MINI TREE GIFT WRAPPING:
Pine needles and small tips of real tree branches make quick and easy mini Christmas trees that can be glued onto Christmas gifts. They will smell nice, too.
BOOK PAGE WRAPPING PAPER:
Repurpose old book pages by cutting out
shapes of dreidels, snowflakes, ornaments, candles or reindeer to paste on gifts.
DIY STAMP WRAPPING PAPER:
Wrap gifts in solid colors of paper. Secure ink stamps and an ink pad in a themed color(s), and stamp the paper as much or as little as desired.
UNBOXED:
Apply other types of containers, rather than boxes or bags, for gift wrapping; examples: canisters, pillow cases, baskets, fabric scraps, maps, glass containers, towels, blankets, scarves, Bento bags (also called triangle bags or origami bags).
Club of the Year
The Country Club of Lexington (CCL) offers an exceptional experience for golfers and families alike. Located just outside downtown Lexington, South Carolina, it has earned recognition as “Club of the Year” by the South Carolina Golf Association. Known for hosting prestigious SCGA and USGA events, it is consistently ranked as one of the top courses in the Midlands.
CCL’S FACILITIES INCLUDE:
• 18-hole championship golf course with pristine conditions
• Full-service driving range and short game practice facility with two putting greens
• Olympic-size swimming pool
• Seven tennis courts
• Daily dining options at the grill and full banquet facilities for special events
COUNTRY CLUB OF LEXINGTON- A WONDERFUL PLACE FOR GOLF, FAMILY, AND COMMUNITY
WHY JOIN?
1. Exclusive Access to a Premium Course: Enjoy a top-tier, well-maintained course with fewer crowds and quicker playtimes.
2. Community and Networking: Connect with fellow golf enthusiasts in a welcoming environment ideal for building friendships and professional connections.
3. Comprehensive Amenities: Beyond golf, enjoy swimming, tennis, dining, and family-friendly activities, along with regular events that bring members together.
Limited membership opportunities are now available! To explore the right membership for you, contact the CCL team at 803-359-8838.
Meet the talented golf professionals at the Country Club of Lexington:
GRACYN BURGESS
Originally from Lexington, SC, Gracyn brings both skill and a personal touch to her role at CCL. She played college golf at Clemson University, where she majored in Sports Communication and earned her Master’s in Athletic Leadership. Now back in Lexington, Gracyn is passionate about serving the CCL community through teaching and engagement. For Gracyn, Christmas means celebrating the Lord Jesus and spending time with loved ones.
PEYTON STEPHENSON
Born in York, SC, Peyton moved to Lexington in 2021 and joined the CCL team the same year. His role involves teaching lessons, managing tournaments, and supporting the pro shop’s operations. For Peyton, Christmas is about celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ and cherishing time with family and close friends.
AUSTIN WEBBER
A Lexington native, Austin has been a part of the CCL team since 2020. He’s excited to pursue the Professional Golf Management (PGM) program next year and continue growing his career in golf. For Austin, Christmas is a season of joy, giving, and appreciation—best enjoyed with family, friends, and lots of Hallmark movies.
GREG PAYNE
Originally from England, Greg represented his country in golf from ages 15 to 18 and turned professional at 19. He competed on the Euro Pro Tour and Challenge Tour before moving to the U.S. in 2019. Greg has been CCL’s Teaching Professional since 2021, working with clients of all skill levels. His star student, Sam Jackson, is a three-time South Carolina Player of the Year and the current CGA Player of the Year. To Greg, Christmas is a time for family and good food—enjoying the season with those closest to him. These professionals are not only skilled golfers but also bring a deep sense of community and passion to the Country Club of Lexington.
Holiday Events in Lake Murray Country
ARTICLE BY KELLY HUGHES, CAPITAL CITY/LAKE MURRAY COUNTRY PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
From traditional parades to festive artisan markets, the region is bright with cheer all December long. We’ve made it easy to plan your perfect holiday outings so you won’t miss a moment of the celebration. Explore a variety of seasonal events in this Top Southern Destination and make your holidays unforgettable! For more details on the events listed below, visit LakeMurrayCountry.com/events!
TREE LIGHTINGS
South Congaree Tree Lighting
Sunday, December 1 | 5 PM | 119 W Berry Rd., West Columbia, SC | Free Town of Irmo Tree Lighting Ceremony
Tuesday, December 3 | 6 - 8 PM | 1249 Lexington Ave., Irmo, SC | Free City of Cayce Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Thursday, December 5 | 6 PM | 1800 12th St., Cayce, SC | Free City of West Columbia Tree Lighting Ceremony
Friday, December 6 | 6:30 - 8:30 PM | 200 12th St., West Columbia, SC | Free Town of Lexington Christmas Carolighting Ceremony
Friday, December 6 | 6:30 - 8 PM | 107 West Main St., Lexington, SC | Free
RUNS
Santa Run & Rudolph Youth Run
Saturday, December 7 | 8:45 AM | 2515 Devine St., Columbia, SC | $35+
Santa’s at Sesqui 5k
Saturday, December 14 | 10 AM - 12 PM | 9564 Two Notch Rd., Columbia, SC | $30
PARADES
Carolina Carillon Holiday Parade in Columbia
Saturday, December 7 | 9:45 AM | Sumter St., Columbia, SC | Free Town of Saluda Christmas Parade
Saturday, December 7 | 3:30 - 4:30 PM | 100 South Jefferson St., Saluda, SC | Free
For more information on each of these events and more, visit LakeMurrayCountry.com/events to plan your holiday adventure now! Let us know where you are celebrating the holidays in the region by tagging us on social media using #LakeMurrayCounty.
