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The holiday season is here, bringing with it the sights, sounds, and traditions that make this time of year so magical. For many of us, the holidays are a chance to recreate the joy we felt as children, whether it’s through the twinkle of festive lights, the aroma of holiday baking, or cherished family traditions.

In my family, we have held onto a lot of traditions, but one of my favorite is getting dressed up for church to celebrate the birth of Jesus and after getting together with friends and family to eat, drink and be merry on Christmas Eve. These moments remind me of the magic of the season and the importance of creating joyful memories with loved ones.
This month, if you don't have any traditions, I encourage you to make some, however small, and spread the joy of the season around like wildflowers. I know this time of year I feel an immense amount of gratitude for all of the blessings that I have received.
While this season is joyful for many, it can also be a difficult time for those who are grieving, lonely, or in need. In the spirit of the season, let’s come together as a community to extend kindness and compassion to those who may be struggling. Whether it’s donating to a local charity, volunteering your time, or simply checking in on a neighbor, every act of generosity makes a difference.
May your holidays be filled with love, peace, and the joy of giving. Cheers!

RACHEL SCHAFFNER, PUBLISHER @NBTXCITYLIFESTYLE
December 2025
PUBLISHER
Rachel Schaffner | rachel.schaffner@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Debbie Laughlin | debbie.laughlin@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Kelly Shearing | kelly.shearing@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Lauren Mendez | lauren.mendez@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Kelly Shearing | kelly.shearing@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Cody's Restaurant Bar & Patio
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Elevated Eye Care, Newman & Company
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

























1: Bride to be and her crew enjoying Gruene at The Gruene Olive 2: Joe Stoeljte and Venessa Croix at the Walk to End Alzheimer’s 3: Joe Stoeljte and Venessa Croix at the Walk to End Alzheimer’s 4: Elevated Eye Care hosted a spooky book club with themed drinks and fun raffle prizes 5: The Weighted Plate hosted a fun Girls Night: Petals and Paint event 6: Micki and her friends celebrating Billy’s Last Hurrah 7: Two Rivers Running gearing up for their Half Marathon & Ryan Bielke 5k



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Hear in Texas hosted its ribbon cutting on October 2 to celebrate three years in New Braunfels. From hearing assessments to hearing aid repairs, their amazing team can help you with all your hearing needs. It's time to get back into the conversation and take control of your hearing health.

Recently celebrating their grand opening, their team of stylists can handle anything from a quick shampoo and blow dry to a Bellami hair extension install. Level up your pampering with a full nail set or a luxurious pedicure.
Photography by @corebeautysalonco_nbtx
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Antique shopping just got an upgrade as Alice Coffee House opened up inside Roosters Antique Store. Shop, grab a coffee, and shop some more. Offering up tasty pastries, rich drinks, and delectable desserts, your day of antique hunting just got better. Relax and stay a while browsing or just enjoy their comfortable couches and seating.
Photography by @kellyshearing
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Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community. Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most. What if that someone was you?

Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an introduction






ELEVATED EYE CARE SHARES HOW TO PROTECT YOUR VISION FROM WINTER DRYNESS AND SCREEN FATIGUE
ARTICLE BY KELLY SHEARING PHOTOGRAPHY BY ELEVATED EYE CARE
Between binging holiday shows, scrolling for gift deals, and spending long hours in dry, cozy rooms, winter can take a real toll on your eyes. According to Drs. Kymber and Jennifer Blaschke of Elevated Eye Care, this season brings a unique mix of challenges (from dry eyes to digital fatigue), and it’s worth giving your vision a little extra love.
“Dry eye is one of the biggest issues we see,” Dr. Jennifer explains. “When heaters kick on, the air loses humidity, and our eyes lose moisture.” Add in cedar allergies, especially here in Texas, and you’ve got a recipe for redness and irritation. Treatments can range from simple eye drops to high-tech solutions like autologous serum drops, which use your own blood serum to reduce inflammation. “We tailor each plan to the patient,” says Dr. Kymber. “There’s no one-size-fits-all fix.”



During the holidays, many of us find ourselves curled up watching marathons or hunting for online sales. “We blink less when we’re on screens,” Dr. Kymber notes, “which contributes to dryness and eye fatigue.” Their go-to advice? The 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look 20 feet away. It gives your visual system a reset and your eyes a much-needed break.
They also recommend using your device’s “night mode” or bluelight filter. “Blue light doesn’t damage your eyes,” Dr. Jennifer clarifies, “but it messes with your sleep-wake cycle.” Cutting it back can help your eyes feel more relaxed and keep your circadian rhythm in check.
If your holiday plans involve flying or road trips, your eyes may need a little extra protection. Airplane cabins have low humidity, and fans or vents blowing in your face can worsen dryness. “Always pack preservative-free artificial tears,” says Dr. Jennifer. “And wear glasses instead of contacts when you travel. A sleep mask helps, too. It keeps air from drying your eyes while you rest.”
Even at home, a humidifier can make a world of difference. “Especially if you sleep with a fan or heater running,” Dr. Kymber adds. “It’s all about restoring moisture.”
“The eyes really are a window to your health,” says Dr. Jennifer. Optometrists can detect conditions like diabetes and hypertension by examining the blood vessels in the back of the eye. That’s why yearly exams matter, even if your vision seems fine. “People often wait until there’s a problem,” Dr. Kymber says, “but prevention is always easier than treatment.”
Both doctors are also passionate about myopia management, especially for kids. “We’re seeing more nearsightedness because children spend more time indoors and on devices,” Dr. Jennifer explains. Simple winter habits, like getting outside for some brisk daylight play, keeping reading and screens at the right distance, and regular eye checkups, can slow progression and protect long-term vision. They also suggest keeping cozy holiday routines in mind. Take screen breaks during your holiday crafts, protect eyes from indoor heater dryness with humidifiers, and remember UV-blocking sunglasses for winter walks or snowy activities, or just being outside in general. Polarized sunglasses are especially helpful for reflections off of snow.
If there’s one message these doctors want people to take into the holiday season, it’s this: Eye care is self-care. From moisturizing eye drops to UV-blocking sunglasses, small habits make a big difference. “Your eyes guide everything you do,” says Dr. Kymber. “Take care of them, and they’ll take care of you.”
1. Follow the 20-20-20 rule for screen breaks.
2. Use preservative-free artificial tears morning and night.
3. Stay hydrated and add a humidifier indoors.
4. Wear sunglasses, even on cloudy days.
5. Keep glasses handy for flights and dry winter travel.
















Newman & Company makes self-care the most thoughtful gift of the season
The holidays are all about showing love, slowing down, and treating yourself (or someone special) to a little luxury. This season, Newman & Company’s 12 Days of Christmas Sale (Dec. 9–21) makes gifting easy with 20% off all gift certificates. Whether you’re shopping for relaxation, beauty, or results that glow long past the holidays, there’s something here for everyone.
ARTICLE BY KELLY SHEARING
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY
NEWMAN & COMPANY



Few things say “you deserve it” quite like an hour spent under soft lights, wrapped in warm towels, and pampered by a skilled aesthetician. Facials are the perfect pick for anyone who loves a moment of calm and care. They leave skin soft, refreshed, and radiant. Let’s be honest, everyone enjoys a good facial massage. For a simple but stunning lift, eyelash services are another can’t-miss option. They’re painless, require no downtime, and give an instant confidence boost. A lash nap followed by bright, fluttery lashes? That’s the kind of magic every busy friend or loved one deserves.
For those who want results that go beyond relaxation, a gift certificate is the way to go. It can be applied toward any service or treatment offered at Newman & Co, letting your loved one choose what fits their goals or needs best. Because aesthetic treatments are cumulative, a gift certificate gives the recipient the flexibility to plan their journey. And during the 12 Days of Christmas Sale, that same certificate stretches even further. A $500 budget buys $600 in value, making it the ultimate smart splurge for someone who loves to feel their best.
For glowing results that last long after the tinsel comes down, the ZO Glow Holiday Gift Set is a perfect match. Valued at around $400 but priced at just $149, it includes a gentle cleanser, toner pads, vitamin C, sunscreen, and a chic bag—already wrapped and ready to gift. It’s ideal for anyone starting a medical-grade skincare routine or wanting to maintain post-treatment results. Healthy skin truly is the gift that keeps giving.






















PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE
JONES
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these holiday drinks are guaranteed to bring a little extra cheer to your cup.

HOLIDAY COCKTAILS & COZY CREATIONS


INGREDIENTS:
A bright, elegant cocktail with a foamy top and a hint of holiday spirit.
• 2 oz gin
• 1 oz cranberry juice
• 3/4 oz lemon juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• 1 egg white
Optional: splash of sparkling water or club soda
Garnish: fresh rosemary or thyme sprig
In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, cranberry juice, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white. Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds to create the frothy top. Double strain into a chilled coupe glass to get that smooth, foamy top. Add a small splash of sparkling water if you’d like a bit of fizz. Gently place a sprig of rosemary or thyme on top of the foam.
INSTRUCTIONS: CONTINUED >
A warm, frothy, and festively spiced drink perfect for winter nights.
INSTRUCTIONS:

For the latte:
• 1 shot of espresso (or 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee)
• 3/4 cup milk
• 2 tbsp gingerbread syrup
• Whipped cream
For the gingerbread syrup:
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp molasses
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Optional toppings:
• Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for dusting
• Marshmallow
• Crushed gingerbread cookie around the rim or on top
Make the gingerbread syrup:
In a small saucepan, combine water, brown sugar, molasses, and spices. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and let cool. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Prepare the drink:
Brew your espresso or strong coffee. Heat and froth your milk. In your glass, add 2 tablespoons of the gingerbread syrup. Pour in the espresso, then the steamed milk, stirring gently to combine. Spoon frothed milk or whipped cream on top. Dust with cinnamon or nutmeg.
Optional: Rim the glass with crushed gingerbread cookie crumbs for extra flair.


An ultra-creamy, chocolatey holiday drink with a hit of warm bourbon and a vanilla bean twist.
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
INGREDIENTS:
• 1/2 cup high-quality dark chocolate (chopped or chips)
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tbsp sugar or maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• Pinch of sea salt
• 2 oz bourbon
Topping: 4 large marshmallows
Optional garnish: grated dark chocolate, whipped cream, cinnamon
INSTRUCTIONS:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, cream, cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla, and salt. Whisk until smooth and heated through. Add chopped dark chocolate and stir constantly until melted and silky. Lower heat if needed to avoid scorching.Remove from heat, then stir in bourbon. Taste and adjust sweetness or strength to your liking. Top with marshmallows. Add whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, and shaved chocolate.
Optional: Add a pinch of cinnamon and cayenne for spicy depth
Kid-friendly version: Omit bourbon and add peppermint extract or caramel syrup instead.
A luscious holiday cocktail with warming spices, rich texture, and a beautiful cinnamon garnish.
• 2 oz dark or spiced rum
• 3/4 oz cinnamon simple syrup
• 1 oz heavy cream
• 1 whole egg
• Dash of ground nutmeg
• Dash of vanilla extract
Garnish: cinnamon stick and a light dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon
Make Cinnamon Simple Syrup:
Combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water, and 2 cinnamon sticks in a saucepan. Simmer for 10 mins, let cool, and strain. Store in the fridge.

Add rum, cinnamon syrup, cream, egg, vanilla, and a pinch of nutmeg to a shaker. Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds to emulsify the egg. Strain into a coupe or stemmed glass like the one in your photo. Top with a cinnamon stick across the rim and a dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon.
Optional: Add 1/2 oz chilled espresso for a coffee kick.

















BY KELLY SHEARING
There’s something magical about the holidays. We chatted with locals at Betty Lou Coffee Company about gifts that truly matter. From elephant experiences to cherished photo books, these stories show that the holidays shine brightest through memories, laughter, and heartfelt surprises. Here are some of the gifts that sparked stories:

• A base guitar. This is what sparked Savannah's interest in music and what motivated her to learn how to play.
- Savannah S.
• Trip to Mexico City. Unknown at the time, this trip was 40 years to the day from her last trip to Mexico City.
- Martha H.
• The gift of traveling and being able to travel. Colorado and Mexico City have been a few highlights. - Barry H.
• A $130 pillow was a gift that wasn't initially loved. Now, she loves the pillow, has been getting the best sleep ever, and takes the pillow on any and all trips.
- Alexis C.
• Going to Durango, Colorado. Lauren talked about how magical it was going to Colorado in the winter with all the snow and the lights. - Lauren Ruiz
• Having the chance to celebrate Jesus's birthday. Joel is also grateful for the gift of being able to slow down for the holidays and spend time with loved ones.
- Joel Schaffner
• Monopoly. After moving to a new church, Debbie was touched when her name was called out to receive a gift as a child. Now, she gets a new Monopoly game often to celebrate that special memory.
- Debbie Laughlin

• Homemade gifts from her son. Whether they come from school or are a handmade card, they are all cherished. - Kristen
• The handmade stuff the kids bring home is always a great gift to receive.
- Courtney Dallimore
• A pair of roller skates. She always wanted a pair of roller skates when growing up, and Rick delivered. - Aspen
• A Ray Wylie Hubbard vinyl album. - Rick
• An espresso machine. She uses it all the time in the winter months. - Loren
• 1978 KISS record player. - Eric P.
• Something to do or a place to go visit. She just loves the experiences. - Lisa Hopkins
• An elephant experience. She loves elephants, and this gift was a dream come true.
- Ryan Lathe
• Photo books from the family. Every year, her parents gather up a collection of family photos and create a yearly photobook that they give to the whole family. - Sarah Kaney
• Her sister gave her caterpillar hair clips. She wears them nearly every single day.
- Maddline K
• Clothes you wouldn't normally go out and splurge on. - Ryan Ponzio
• Record player. She listens to everything from yacht rock to R&B. - Kaylee Campos
• Michael Kors wallet. - Elizabeth B.
• Treasured time with the family and the grandkids. - Yvonne & Tommy Thompson
• Fun experiences and personalized cards are perfect. - Melinda
• Her parents bought a train set for the family when she was a child. Every year, they would set it up around the tree. - Hannah Rose

Celebrating local nonprofits that make our community shine
ARTICLE BY KELLY SHEARING


Since 1981, Connections has offered hope and comfort to youth and families in Comal County. From safe shelter and life-skills programs to affordable counseling and prevention education, they meet people with compassion and care. Every service helps build strength, confidence, and a brighter path forward for those who need it most.

The Greater New Braunfels Arts Council believes art brings people together. Since 1981, they have supported local artists and shared the joy of music, writing, and visual art with the community. Through classes, events, and partnerships, they keep creativity alive and help everyone experience the beauty of art close to home.
Happened by Chance Horses began in 2014 with a mother’s love for her son and a shared bond with a horse. Today, this rescue gives neglected and forgotten horses a new start. Linda Nemec and her team care for each animal with patience and kindness, helping them heal and reminding us all what love can do.



River City Advocacy offers care and understanding to those seeking better mental health. Through affordable counseling and peer support, they help people find strength in themselves and in the community. Guided by compassion and respect, they remind us that healing grows when we walk beside one another with open hearts.
Room Redux gives children who have faced abuse a place to heal. By transforming their bedrooms into warm, peaceful spaces, this nonprofit helps replace fear with comfort and sadness with hope. Each room brings new light and reminds every child that they are safe, loved, and worthy of a fresh start.
The Comal Literacy Foundation helps families build brighter futures through the gift of reading. With free books, classes, and learning tools, they bring knowledge and confidence to children and adults alike. Every story shared and every book given helps open doors to new dreams and a stronger, more connected community.















ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN

ADVICE EDITORIAL: ALTERNATE GIFT IDEAS FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON
The holiday season is officially on, and gifting is top of mind. We’re all used to scrolling online, browsing the malls or hitting the local boutiques, but sometimes it’s fun and unexpected to switch it up. If looking to surprise and delight recipients this year and to bring a new tradition to the season, offbeat gifting can be a great way to turn a new leaf on stale routines.


1) PRE-HOLIDAY SURPRISE.
For those traveling, send gifts early, such as cheeses, fruit or pies.
2) FUTURE FUN.
Browse winter or spring events; snag tickets to enjoy with recipients.
3) GENEROSITY.
Donations make heartfelt, thoughtful ideas.
4) TRAVEL.
Gift a loved one with a trip.
5) TIME.
Is a recipient busy, overloaded and overworked? Treat them to a whole home cleaning before or after the holiday.
6) LOVE OF LEARNING.
If a loved one is planning international travel, grab them a gift card for a language learning app.
7) THOUGHTFUL MESSAGES.
Ask friends and family to record loving messages on cellphones; combine recordings using a video app for meaningful holiday greeting.
8) BON APPÉTIT.
Sign up special someone for cooking class regarding favorite cuisine, or cuisine they struggle to make.
9) RECIPE BOOK.
Gather traditional family recipes and create printed books for guests as priceless keepsakes.






















Warm, nutty, and perfectly smooth, the Pecan Old Fashioned is a cozy twist on a timeless favorite. The secret is the homemade pecan simple syrup. Rich, toasty, and just sweet enough to balance the bite of Overholt Rye Whiskey. A few dashes of orange and Angostura bitters bring depth and brightness, while the orange peel and cocktail cherry garnishes bring a classic touch. This cocktail feels like an evening by the fire: comforting, refined, and just a little indulgent. It’s the perfect sip for crisp nights lounging at Cody's Restaurant, Bar & Patio.
BY DEBBIE LAUGHLIN
Ingredients:
• 2 dashes orange bitters
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• 1.5 oz. Overholt Rye Whiskey
• 0.25 oz. pecan syrup
• Orange peel, for garnish
• Cocktail cherry, for garnish
Directions:
1. Combine pecan syrup with bitters in an Old Fashioned glass.
2. Add a large ice cube.
3. Top with Overholt whiskey.
4. Stir gently.
5. Garnish with orange twist and cocktail cherry.
6. Enjoy!



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DECEMBER 2ND
The Grand Ol' Christmas Show at the Brauntex
290 W San Antonio St, New Braunfels, TX 78130 | 7:30 PM
Running from December 2nd to December 3rd, The Grand Ol' Christmas Show is a one-of-a-kind event. This musical variety show brings all your favorite Christmas classics to the stage, along with original sketch comedy antics. The show starts at 7:30 p.m. and runs till 9:30 p.m. Ticket prices start at $43.00 and go up to $67.00.
DECEMBER 4TH
500 Main Plaza New Braunfels, TX 78130 | 6:00 PM
Come feel the Christmas magic. Downtown will be lit up from top to bottom with lights and beautiful Christmas decorations. Live music will fill the air. Sip on your wassail (warm, spiced cider drink), while perusing the local vendors. Local shops will have extended hours so you can shop till you drop at this family-friendly event.
DECEMBER 6TH
at




26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd, San Antonio, TX 78266
Ever wanted to hear how Christmas carols echo in a cavern? Well, now you can find out when you celebrate Christmas at the Caverns. You can visit with Santa, listen to stories from Mrs. Claus, and round up the reindeer in the fun outdoor maze. Round out your day on the trail of lights before skating in the ice rink.








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CONTINUED
DECEMBER 7TH
178 Landa Park Dr., New Braunfels, TX 78130 | 12:00 PM
Treat yourself to a day of pampering and wedding planning. The Winter Bridal Jubilee at the Wurstfest Grounds is sure to level up your big day. With top-tier wedding vendors, you can make your Hill Country wedding a dream come true. Register today to enjoy this four-hour event at Wursthalle.
2157 FM1101, New Braunfels, TX 78130 | 11:00 AM
The Grinch just couldn't stay away from Freiheit, as he is coming back for the fourth year for the Grinch Market at Freiheit Country Store. Whether you want to grab a picture with the green guy or want to tackle some last-minute holiday shopping at the vendor market, you're sure to have a good time.
1281 Gruene Rd, New Braunfels, TX 78130 | 8:00 PM
For two nights only, William Clark Green will grace the stage at Gruene Hall. With Seth Van Dover as the opener, these two evenings will be a moment to remember. William Clark Green will play acoustic songs on the 18th, and his other lineup with the full band on the 19th. Tickets start at $25 per person.
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