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Porter, TX January 2024

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JA N UA RY 2 02 4


THERE’S A

BETTER APPROACH

TO CANCER CARE in The Woodlands At Houston Methodist Neal Cancer Center, we treat every aspect of your cancer. Leading oncologists work with our specialists across disciplines to minimize cancer’s effects on major organs. One comprehensive team — dedicated to your individual care — uses the latest research, treatments and technology to stop your cancer. From infusion and clinical trials to surgery and reconstruction, our innovative care is available in The Woodlands.

The Woodlands Willowbrook

Katy-West Houston

That’s the difference between practicing medicine and leading it.

Baytown Texas Medical Center

Sugar Land

936.270.3333 houstonmethodist.org/cancer-woodlands

Clear Lake


LIFESTYLE LETTER

New Year; New You

January 2024 PUBLISHER

Rachel Burk | rachel.burk@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Stacy Leach | stacy.leach@citylifestyle.com AC C O U N T M AN AG E R

Jamie Allgood | jamie.allgood@citylifestyle.com

A predictable title, but if you read this, you'll understand that as cliche as it is, a new you, is YOUR choice. If you want to stay the same you, that's okay too! There are no expectations other than what you set for yourself. For many of us, this time of year is full of excitement. It's a season of resetting, envisioning new horizons, and charting courses toward our goals. Yet, in the midst of this collective enthusiasm, January can also cast a shadow for some—an unwelcome reminder of past endeavors that may not have come to fruition and the weighty expectation that this year must somehow diverge from the patterns of the past. We approached this issue of Porter City Lifestyle from a mindset of mental health and wellness. All too often we stretch ourselves thin trying to do all the world asks of us. This year, let's just take a minute to focus on what's important. Take a stroll through the pages and get inspired by real people in our community. Starting each day with a focus on oneself is a powerful ritual. Whether it's through meditation, journaling, praying, or simply taking a few moments to breathe deeply, dedicating time to our mental well-being sets a positive tone for the day ahead. In the quiet moments of self-reflection, we can gain clarity, find gratitude, and cultivate a sense of inner calm that resonates throughout our daily experiences. Remember that self-care is not selfish; it's a necessary investment in our overall well-being. When we take the time to nourish our minds and souls, we become better equipped to navigate life's challenges with resilience and grace. This New Year, let's release the weight of expectations and embrace the journey of self-discovery. Explore new passions, set realistic goals, and celebrate the small victories that contribute to our personal growth. As we embark on this new chapter, let's also extend kindness and compassion to ourselves. Embrace the imperfections, savor the joys, and learn from the challenges. Surround yourself with positive influences and cultivate a supportive network that encourages authenticity and vulnerability. Here’s to you! We’re rooting for you. R AC H E L B U R K , P U B L I S H E R @PORTERCITYLIFESTYLE

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Kelsey Galloway C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R

Fireheart Photography

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Porter City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Porter area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions.

Visit our Instagram CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/PORTER

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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

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 Porter City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.


inside the issue JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | HEA LT H & W EL L N ES S

12 22 Featured

12 22 28

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Pediatric Chiropractic Holistic Health for Your Babies

A Cloak of Courage The Battle for Life

The Digital Detox

28 On the Cover

Departments

Francie with Fireheart Photography skillfully captures the nurturing expertise of Dr. Lauren Baker as she effortlessly soothes and connects with infants and toddlers.

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Lifestyle Letter

8

City Scene

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Business Monthly

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Family Care HEALTH + WELLNESS

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Healthy Lifestyle FITNESS

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Trend Setter ENTERTAINMENT

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Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAG E

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Mental Wellbeing LIFE + CULTURE

Goodbye Virtual, Hello Reality! Photography: Fireheart Photography: Pictured - Dr. Lauren Baker

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Must See HEALTH + WELLNESS

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Events


Your success is why we’re here. When Warren’s Ready-Mix made it their mission to produce the best Houston concrete buying experience possible, The MINT National Bank team was there. With help from their local MINT bankers, Dean and Bernice Warren were able to purchase the equipment necessary to transport concrete across the Houston area.

Since 2009

At The MINT, our mission is to help you and your business succeed. Come experience our customer-first approach and we’ll create banking solutions tailored to your needs.

Let’s Connect! 1213 Kingwood Drive, Kingwood, Texas 77339 Tel (281) 359-6468 - www.themint.bank


JANUARY 2024

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

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TYLER JONES, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATION

1: Madison Duxbury and family, with Edward Jones, at her Valley Ranch office’s open house. 2: Addi’s Faith Foundation Holiday Home Tour event hosted to continue the fight against childhood cancer. 3: Lots of people out supporting our local vendors at The New Caney Community Market. 4: The Beyer Family at the 4th annual Peggy Beyer Memorial Foundation Chili Cook Off. 5: Back Pew Brewing hosting a vendor event. 6: Porter City Lifestyle’s Ribbon Cutting with Greater EMC Chamber of Commerce. 7: Monthly business luncheon at the Greater EMC Chamber of Commerce.

Want to be seen in the magazine? TA G Y O U R I N S TA G R A M P H O T O S W I T H @ P O R T E R C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

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C I T Y SC E N E


JANUARY 2024

business monthly A ROUNDUP OF NEWS F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

New CEO of Houston Methodist The Woodlands David Bernard, current CEO of Houston Methodist Baytown, will replace Dr. Sukin at Houston Methodist The Woodlands on January 1. Mr. Bernard joined Methodist in 2000 as an administrative personel. He served as VP at Houston Methodist Hospital before his promotion to lead Houston Methodist Baytown in 2015.

Buy / Sell / Lease / Invest Residential Commercial Farm & Ranch Land

AVAAREALTY.COM (281) 940-7253 info@avaarealty.com 22611 Community Drive • New Caney, TX 77357

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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

Want to be featured? G E T I N T O U C H AT CIT YLIFEST YLE .COM/PORTER


Welcome, Pat Cunningham - State Farm Welcome Pat Cunningham -State Farm agent. State Farm is here to safeguard your dreams, protect your assets, and plan for your future. With a commitment to personalized service, our dedicated team is ready to assist you with insurance and financial solutions tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re insuring your car, home, or securing your family’s future, we’re here to make life’s uncertainties a little less worrisome.

Scan to read more

Lone Star Family Health Center Lone Star Family Health Center recently had a groundbreaking ceremony for a new expansion and renovation project at its Conroe location at 605 S. Conroe Medical Drive. The project includes a new 24,000-square-foot building and a 20,000-square-foot renovation of the existing building. The expansion will feature additional medical exam rooms, a dedicated mental health suite, an expanded patient intake area, and more. Completion is scheduled for the fall of 2024. JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / P O RT E R

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PE DI AT R IC

chiropractic

HOLISTIC HEALTH FOR YOUR BABIES

ARTICLE BY KELSEY GALLOWAY PHOTOGRAPHY BY FIREHEART PHOTOGRAPHY

Pediatric and Chiropractic. Two words you may not realize can and should go together, but they do. Dr. Lauren Baker, owner of New Leaf Chiropractic, considers infants and young children to be ideal candidates to benefit from Chiropractic work. “They (babies) go through so much trauma during the birth process, and Chiropractic helps gently unwind them from the folded position they were in for so long.” It is a different kind of manipulation than what’s used for adults as you do not ‘pop’ a

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baby, but gently mobilize them, taking special care with their tiny joints. Dr. Baker graduated from the Texas Chiropractic College in May of 2002 with a Doctor of Chiropractic and a Bachelor of Science in Biology. She also holds a specialization from the ICPA (International Chiropractic Pediatric Association) specifically to work on the littles, and it’s paid off for so many! In one memorable case, Dr. Baker helped a 12-month-old baby girl who had already experienced nine rounds of antibiotics for ear infections and was due to have tubes inserted but decided to try chiropractic as a last resort first. She was seen twice a week for six weeks and hasn’t had an ear infection since without needing tubes inserted. She is truly impassioned about helping heal through chiropractic adjustment and body manipulation. It may be physical, emotional, or chemical stress causing the issues, and Dr. Baker is passionate about working with her patients holistically to determine the root cause to prevent it from recurring.

“It’s miraculous to see the results they [babies] can achieve with the right touch...”

The following are key indicators when considering pediatric chiropractic care per Dr. Baker: 1. Baby is not latching/not gaining weight 2. Baby has reflux, colic or is uncomfortable and has to be constantly moved or held to be calm 3. If baby was born via section, spinal misalignments could be present. 4. Toddler with ear infections, but medicine doesn’t seem to be helping

JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / P O RT E R

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ARTICLE BY KELSEY GALLOWAY

Getting Active in 2024 READY TO GET FIT BUT NOT SURE WHERE TO START?

Spi n C l as s e s Spin classes utilize a stationary bike indoors with differing levels of speed and resistance to increase the difficulty. Spinning is considered a fun, full-body workout, as well as a great cardiovascular exercise.

Hot Workouts Hot workouts, such as Hot Yoga, Hot Pilates, and Hot Barre is taking a traditional class and turning up the heat. Higher temperatures are believed to increase the heart rate and metabolism as you work out, thereby burning more calories.

C ros sFi t CrossFit is a great option for competition and growth in a group setting. Imagine a high-intensity workout program that incorporates elements of weightlifting, running, and gymnastics with varied and inventive exercises designed to challenge you physically and mentally.

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Wal k i n g / Jo ggi n g / R u n n i n g

Virtual

It is hard to beat the tried-and-true options of the outdoors. Walking, jogging, or running have benefits that include mental health, and are multiplied by the soothing effect nature has on the mind.

Virtual workouts are new and exploding. Simply log in to the computer or smart tv to enroll in workout plans online and follow the videos in the privacy of your own home.

H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | FIT N E SS


28 JUST LISTED!

Family-owned custom home builder with over 20 years experience! www.dreambuilderhomestexas.com JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / P O RT E R

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BOOK

LOOK Local Warm Reads for a Cold Season ARTICLE BY KELSEY GALLOWAY

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T R E N D SE T T E R | ENTERTAIN ME N T


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1 1 . PA L M I S L A N D B Y J A S O N B R A D S H AW A modern-day, action adventure novel. When a submarine goes missing off a chain of islands in southern Mexico, a retired boat captain/pilot with a tragic past is called upon to help locate it. Little did he know how the contents of that submarine could change his life forever.

2. R EIN VENTION MINDSET BY LOR I MCDOW ELL A tragedy can also be a chance for growth and a new beginning. In this funny yet empowering book, you will explore ways to control your reactions in order to influence your life in positive new ways that keep you growing and moving onward and upward.

3. T H E M A R AU DER A N D H IS DAUGH T ER : A M EMOIR FROM T H E 194 4 DI A RY OF M E R I L L’ S M A U R A U D E R L A R R Y W. S T E P H E N S O N B Y L I N DA S . CU N N I NGH A M

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A poignant tale told by the daughter of one of MERRIL’s MARAUDERS during WWII, who upon discovering her father’s diary, came to understand the darkness he brought home from his experiences in the war, as well as the way that darkness affected those around him.

JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / P O RT E R

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DEVELOPER OF COMMUNITIES & STEWARD OF THE LAND Lot Development | Single-Family Multi-Family | Rural Estate Living Ranch Development Recreational Properties

281.354.1853

joslindevelopmentgroup.com curt@joslindevelopmentgroup.com

ARE YOU SURE IT’S ALLERGIES? OPEN 24/ 7/365

FOR ALL YOUR EMERGENCY NEEDS!

ANIMAL RANCH CARE Lauren Baker is a Chiropractor certified to adjust animals.* Mobile service available.

Chiropractic Care for: SHOW CATTLE LIVESTOCK HORSES

Elitekingwood.com | 832-777-6165 | Kingwood Dr @ 59 N.

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DOGS/CATS

*vet referral required

AND MORE!

Call or Text us:

www.animalranchcare.com

281-900-5081


Breathe New Life Into Your Home DRYWALL REPAIR | PAINTING | KITCHEN & BATH | HOME REMODEL

Plumbing Done Right!

A home remodeling and repair company who answers our phone, shows up on time and does what we say we are going to do. We believe in taking care of your home as if it were our own, work is done with integrity and care.

FraziersRemodeling.com | 713-819-7945 Serving Northeast Houston.

Freedom Plumbing & Drain has a collective 20+ years of experience in plumbing. We are a family owned and operated business. The owner of Freedom Plumbing & Drain learned plumbing working for one of the top plumbing companies in the industry. As he learned the business, realizing he had a talent for solving tough plumbing problems, he started his Freedom Plumbing & Drain. We take great pride in our work. Our strength lies in our decades of experience and our commitment to quality. We are expert troubleshooters and can help solve your plumbing problems, whether big or small.

281.733.5908

freedomplumbingdrain.com 27230 Jessica Hills Ln, Spring, TX

JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / P O RT E R

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a cozy classic OLD FASHIONED CHICKEN AND DUMPLINGS ARTICLE BY RACHEL BURK

We took a poll and YOU voted that Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings is the top family favorite meal that is both comforting and delicious when it’s cold outside.

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C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE


chicken and dumplings ingredients • • • • •

2-3 bone-in chicken breasts 2 quarts broth 3 cups flour 1/2 cup butter 1 cup milk

directions 1. On low heat, in a crockpot, cook chicken for 5-6 hours in 3 cups of water. Keep the broth. 2. In a medium bowl, combine flour, softened butter, milk, and some broth from the crockpot. Mix it all together well. 3. Dust counter with a generous amount of flour. Roll the dough out to about 1/4” thickness. Add more flour as necessary to keep from sticking underneath or to rolling pin. Using a knife or a pizza cutter, start cutting out dumplings into squares. 3. Bring 2 quarts of chicken broth to a boil. Add shredded chicken and begin adding dumplings one at a time. Season to taste. Stir frequently. Allow dumplings to cook and broth to thicken for 15-20 minutes.

JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / P O RT E R

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A C l o a k o f C o u ra ge THE BATTLE FOR LIFE

ARTICLE BY RACHEL BURK PHOTOGRAPHY BY FIREHEART PHOTOGRAPHY

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Life presents challenges to everyone, varying in intensity and impact. The response to these challenges is a personal choice, and while adopting a positive mindset is an effective way to confront them, the journey may not always begin with such optimism. Francie Baltazar – Stonestreet, owner of Fireheart Photography, and Porter City Lifestyle’s own photographer, knows about life’s trials, and there isn’t a better person to exemplify regarding those obstacles and a positive mindset. The words faded and her whole body froze. Time seemed to halt, and in that breathless moment, the world became a distorted echo of normalcy. A tear fell after trying fiercely to hold it back. With a quivering lip and a paused brush of her hand to her cheek, the outward expression of fear was erased, leaving a faint, glistening remnant. This was nothing more than an indication that a fight was on the horizon; a fight of will, mental focus, and trust. It was time to adorn the warrior cloak. As she surrendered to the journey, the medicine flowed through the tubes, and right into her soul. Her heart pulsed with power knowing that all the cells were slowly dying, but her body felt anything but powerful. Fatigued from the internal battles, her head drooped low as she released a weighty sigh. This was her new reality—tethered to tubes, combatting an invisible adversary. Her “happy” thoughts pillaged through the wreckage of her mental state -vying for any space that wasn’t occupied by negativity, and yet, those spaces seemed scant. “How did this happen? I’m in the best shape of my life! 100 pounds down, great diet, daily activity; I just don’t get it... Oh no, I’m going to lose my eyebrows again. Here comes Uncle Fester… No!! I will not succumb to the darkness. I will be the light for myself that I want to see in others!”

Rewind to September of 2020, Francie Baltazar Stonestreet, faced Endometrial Uterine Cancer Stage 2, a soul-crushing diagnosis. The treatment seemed to last forever, ravaging her body and mind. Facing the dichotomy of the situation, Francie armored herself with a new mindset, Xena Warrior Princess: brave, tough, and hopeful. Following an arduous battle, in May of 2021, yielding her sword of restitution, she was able to ring the victory bell on cancer. But just recently, she sat in the doctor’s chair, trying to catch her breath after receiving news that once again she would have to wield that sword. Cancer, round 2: Diffused Large B-cell lymphoma, stage 1, a silent killer. After curating a new, healthy normal, doubt tried to creep in and she was thrust back into the struggle of emotions from round one of treatment. But just for a second. There was only one way to face it: head-on with courage. As she stared into the mirror, facing her current reality, she tried to conjure that courage; the urge to release the floodgates weighed heavy on an already battered heart. Locks of curls trailed the floor and filled the sink. The reflection that stared back was a monster that couldn’t be tamed with rouge or lipstick. Cancer is a thief of more than just energy and wellness, it depletes any sense of beauty causing psychological scars- which are sometimes harder to heal than physical ones. With most treatments, hair loss is a known side effect, however, losing hair could be the most traumatic experience in the cancer journey, especially for a woman. As strands fall, so does a piece of identity, leaving an emotional canvas where vulnerability and strength coalesce. Crafting mindful beauty through makeup and a curling iron is a meaningful pursuit, yet with each lost strand, beauty feels increasingly bereft. CONTINUED >

“...I have a choice as to how to approach every day: attack with positive and healing thoughts, or drown in my fear. I choose healing thoughts and positive outcomes.”

JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / P O RT E R

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“It’s a balance of listening to your body and giving yourself grace to just be.”

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Alas, Francie found solace in some of the unwanted: quicker showers, no undesired hair anywhere, and wig experimentation! Available are a plethora of colors, and she wore lavender as a crown of confidence. A sanguine perspective reveals that having no hair is indicative of the treatment’s efficacy—eliminating cancer cells and forging onward to a healthier body and revived soul. Xena didn’t stay in the dark, she rested when needed, grieved when necessary, then stepped into the light. But not all days were easy; that’s part of the journey. Amidst the stagnant days of healing, it may have seemed like the world continued to progress without her. On those harder days, the journey to motion was not rushed but rather undertaken at a pace more comfortable. Penning words of inspiration and gratitude in a journal, slow walks in nature listening as the wind whispered encouraging words of hope, and surrounding herself with supportive friends proved instrumental in maintaining Francie’s warrior spirit. She found solitude and that zest for life in continuing her work. Even equipped with all these weapons for mental combat, she knew that on the battlefield of life, she was never alone. The hidden casualties of cancer extend beyond the diagnosed individuals to encompass their families. The impact on loved ones is profound, demanding an emotional resilience that is often overlooked. They wait, bedecked with hope, but understand the possibility of death, and watch as their loved one slowly withers from the champion they knew into a fragile state of dependence and need – focused solely on survival. Emerging from the shadows, Francie confronted the stark aftermath that cancer had wrought. Her family had grappled with the reality of potential loss, and having to witness

her suffering was a harrowing challenge. Providing support to family members in such times is invaluable. Caregivers, in particular, deserve respite. Meals that were sent, grocery shopping, and friends that would take a peaceful walk with her in the park were gestures that offered her caregivers a crucial break and affirmed to be remarkably helpful. It was always the actions, and never the words. On the contrary, words do carry some weight. Condolences seem meaningless at times, but Francie found positive affirmations like “you’ve got this” and “cancer doesn’t stand a chance” emphasized resilience over sorrow. Any warrior of words is an attribute to Xena! However, sometimes, using the wrong words felt like salt in a wound, “You don’t look sick”... How does sick look? Francie chose to speak words of positivity to herself and others; she chose to fight; she continues to choose life. Xena Warrior Princess, although an alter ego, is personified through her words and actions. Cancer is a tumultuous battle, yet amid the chaos, awareness stands as a guiding beacon for choices. Diet, exercise, rest, and cognitive acuity are all within one’s control. The choice to stroll and let the sunshine rejuvenate a tired spirit - or not; the choice to eat food with healing properties - or not; the choice to find the reasons to smile, to laugh, to live… or not. In this battle, don’t settle for “or not”. Francie hasn’t. Xena has awoken for round two of the cancer journey and has taken up arms to fight the mental fight. She wears the cloak of confidence that will create the path to victory once again. When a diagnosis leaves life feeling incomplete, find Xena, and let Francie serve as the source of inspiration.

It’s not how you enter a room, but how you exit. When it’s my time to go, I want people to remember my Xena Warrior Princess positive and motivating attitude!

JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / P O RT E R

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We Would Love To See Your Pretty Face Our team has one goal in mind when you sit down. We want you to leave feeling better than wehen you arrived. NBP is all about selflove, confidence, and having fun in the meantime. Through continuing education and our passion for hair, we promise to always leave you in great hands! We offer a variety of services.

Color Extensions Styling Treatments

neonblondeparlour.com 281.623.5196 30129 Rock Creek Dr, Kingwood, Texas 77339

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832.694.1299 | HoustonDryerVentAuthority.com

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Looking for a Local Real Estate Agent? Is it time for your next home? Let us help you buy or sell; schedule an appointment for a complimentary market evaluation. Our in-depth knowledge of East Montgomery County will work for you. We are LOCAL and ready to make the process easy on you! We’re not selling just a property; we’re selling dreams. We offer Residential, Commercial, and Investment Properties.

Call today, start packing and living your dream! RHODENREALESTATETEAM.COM // 936-661-5733 // 281-684-5227 // BROKER LICENSE: 0672122

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JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / P O RT E R

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THE DIGITAL detox

GOODBYE VIRTUAL, HELLO REALITY! ARTICLE BY KELSEY GALLOWAY

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M UST SE E | HEALTH + W ELLN E SS


Close your eyes, and think of some of the top moments you’ve experienced in life: kissing someone special for the first time; holding your newborn baby; the salty tang of the ocean and the gritty sand under your feet; puppy breath and furry, squirming bodies climbing on you. When opening your eyes, did any of those start by scrolling social media? Social media has become a major part of society and everyday life, and in many ways, it can benefit your business or even social life. The problem is some people let it start to replace the real world in which they live. Social media, while ‘social’, can never be a replacement for real-world human connection, and it’s important to understand that. Spending too much time engaging with it can increase your loneliness and lead to feelings of isolation. Rising levels of depression and anxiety are linked to heavy social media use, along with feeling disassociated from your life and those around you. Body dysmorphia and feelings that your life/appearance are inadequate are also linked to social media use. Teenage girls are a true victim to social media; ask any school principal, vice principal, or counselor. However, it’s important to realize that what’s seen is what those who post want you to see. Photos can be edited and enhanced, and most only post the good things that happen, which is fine. We all want to root for the good! But you aren’t getting the whole picture from the glimpses seen online. Don’t let those feelings of dissatisfaction or envy settle into your mind. Remember to find the good in your life, then toss your phone aside and go enjoy it.

Photo Credit: Three Little Chickadees

CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / P O RT E R

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It’s time to be intentional with your life. FOMO, or a fear of missing out, is another common problem seen with heavy social media use. The thought of maybe missing out on things can impact your self-esteem, as well as trigger feelings of anxiety. All of this can drive more excessive social media use, like an addiction, compelling you to constantly check your phone and compulsively respond to every alert noise. Are your notifications turned on or off for social media? On the flip side, social media can make you have an unhealthy obsession with yourself and cause you to link your self-worth to other’s reactions on the internet. You may find yourself posting tons of selfies, or constantly sharing your innermost thoughts, then checking frequently to see how many likes or comments it engenders. This signals an unhealthy link between your self-worth and social media. The two should not be interlinked. It’s time to be intentional with your life. Instead of looking at what other people are doing with theirs, live for yourself. Create

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M UST SE E | HEALTH + W ELLN E SS

your own utopia! Go outside and truly dive into the moment. Take in the smells, the way the air feels on your skin, and the sounds of birds chirping. Don’t take your phone. Leave it on the couch and put it out of your mind. This is your time. This is your moment that’s not shared with anyone else... maybe just your significant other or kiddos. A great challenge in the new year is to take a break from social media. Now, it’s highly unlikely you can, or even want to, just go cold turkey, but maybe it’s time to set some real-life boundaries and start implementing them. The goal is to have less of a virtual presence and more of an actual presence in your own life because you only get one. Start with baby steps such as no phones at the table, no social media before 9am, and set time limits on how long you can scroll so you don’t get sucked into the abyss. Set actual goals on real actual paper with a pen! Remember, it’s your life to live, in real time, in real ways. How will you be more present in the new year?


GET INSPIRED E AT & D R I N K SHOP LOCAL YO U R D I G I TA L D E S T I N AT I O N FOR LOCAL LIVING

JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / P O RT E R

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JANUARY 2024

events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S

JA NUA RY 2 N D

Tullis Adult Writer’s Group R. B. Tullis Branch - MCMLS | 6:00 PM The Writers' Group meets on the 1st Tuesday of each month (except holidays) from 6 PM to 8 PM. We are a supportive group. No dues or education/experience required. Come write with us and share what you have written. countylibrary.org/tullis.htm

JA NUA RY 5T H

Valley Ranch Cruise In Valley Ranch Town Center | 6:00 PM Free gathering, all cars are welcome!

JA NUA RY 6T H

Krafty Shack 22043 E. Hammond Drive, Porter, TX | 11:00 AM We will begin Saturdays at 11am. $10 family canvas painting sessions for all ages! Sign up online as classes open up. KraftyShack.com

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EVE N TS


JA N UA RY 7 T H

New Caney Community Market 11:00 AM Open the 1st and 3rd Sunday from 11AM-3PM. Shop from over 60 local vendors that offer fresh produce, meats, honey, baked goods, artisan-made goods and so much more! newcaneymarket.com

JA N UA RY 1 7 T H

Pop Up Party Pout Medspa at Blo Bar Blo Blow Dry Bar - 4625 Kingwood Drive Unit #700, Kingwood, Texas 77345 | 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM YOU are invited to our Party!! Please join us and bring a friend! blomedry.com/blo-kingwood/

E N H A N C I N G YO U R NAT U R A L B E AU T Y DYSPORT

SCULPTRA

FILLERS

A neuromodulator that

A dermal filler made of

Dermal fillers are a hyaluronic

relaxes muscle movement and helps with fine lines and wrinkles. Results typically last 3-4 months and should be repeated for best results.

poly-L-lactic acid that helps

acid gel that helps restore

stimulate collagen production

volume loss and deficiencies in

within the body. Sculptra can

the face. Results can be seen

take up to 3 months to reach

immediately with dermal fillers

it’s full potential but lasts

and can last anywhere from

approximately 2 years.

9-24 months.

Pout Medspa is a concierge Medspa that focuses on delivering the highest quality medical aesthetic services in a comfortable, relaxing atmosphere; that’s why we come to you!

JA N UA RY 2 0 T H

KIDS ART & PLAY! One Acre Farm: 3416 Magnolia Dr., Porter, TX 77365 | 9:00 AM Nice temps with sunshine in the forecast. Great weather to come out to the farm with your kiddos for Kids’ Art & Play. Pre-purchase required at the link below: oneacrefarmtx.com

Want to be featured? G E T I N T O U C H AT CIT YLIFEST YLE .COM/PORTER

S C H E D U L E A F R E E C O N S U LTAT I O N WWW.POUTMEDSPA.COM | 281.506.4006 JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / P O RT E R

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Porter, TX January 2024 by City Lifestyle - Issuu