PROSPER - Life & Luxury Magazine | December 2021

P rosper Prosper’s Community Magazine Since 2012 December 2021 | Issue 125 WeAreProsper.com

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What’s Inside Family 8

A Visit from St. Nicholas

10

How to Make the Holidays Less Stressful for the Whole Family

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Life & Luxury Magazine™

December 2021 | Issue 125 Publisher Heather Reynolds Heather@CedarbrookMedia.com Creative Director Jason Reynolds Jason@CedarbrookMedia.com

Community 12

Prosper ISD News: A Few Highlights from 2021

14

Prosper Christmas Festival Offers a Magical Experience for the Whole Family

16

Around Town

Director of Sales & Marketing Mark Mattison Mark@CedarbrookMedia.com Photography Jason Reynolds - Cedarbrook Media Group www.CedarbrookMedia.com Production/Design Cedarbrook Media Group, LLC Design@CedarbrookMedia.com

Homefront 18

7 Tips to Pick the Right Home Service Providers

20

Answering your Holiday Season Questions

In Good Taste

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Fashion & Beauty

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PROSPER | FRISCO | MCKINNEY | CELINA | ANNA | LOVEJOY

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What to Wear for Christmas Events: Our Edit for the Most Wonderful Time of the Year

A Cedarbrook Media Group, LLC Publication www.CedarbrookMedia.com

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Stay Safe on the Road This Winter

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Contributing Writers Heather Reynolds | Clement Clark Moore | Dr. Holly Ferguson | Jimmie Gibson | Stacy Cate 6 | WeAreProsper.com

PROSPER Life & Luxury Magazine is wholly owned and published by Cedarbrook Media Group, LLC. PROSPER Life & Luxury Magazine is published 12 times a year. No portion of this publication may be reproduced or copied whole or in part without expressed written permission from the publisher, Cedarbrook Media Group, LLC. ©2020. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. The title and all material are protected by international copyright laws and are reserved. Although the greatest of care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this magazine at time of going to press, neither PROSPER Life & Luxury Magazine nor Cedarbrook Media Group, LLC can be held liable for omissions, inexactness or errors.

Life & Luxury Magazine Family

A Visit from St. Nicholas

By Clement Clarke Moore

8 | WeAreProsper.com

‘Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse; The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there; The children were nestled all snug in their beds; While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads; And mamma in her ‘kerchief, and I in my cap, Had just settled our brains for a long winter’s nap, When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter, I sprang from my bed to see what was the matter.

Away to the window I flew like a flash, Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.

The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow, Gave a lustre of midday to objects below, When what to my wondering eyes did appear, But a miniature sleigh and eight tiny rein-deer, With a little old driver so lively and quick, I knew in a moment he must be St. Nick.

More rapid than eagles his coursers they came, And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name: “Now, Dasher! now, Dancer! now Prancer and Vixen!

On, Comet! on, Cupid! on, Donner and Blitzen!

To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall!

Now dash away! dash away! dash away all!”

As leaves that before the wild hurricane fly, When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky; So up to the housetop the coursers they flew With the sleigh full of toys, and St. Nicholas too— And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof The prancing and pawing of each little hoof.

As I drew in my head, and was turning around, Down the chimney St. Nicholas came with a bound.

He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot, And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot; A bundle of toys he had flung on his back, And he looked like a pedler just opening his pack.

His eyes—how they twinkled! his dimples, how merry!

His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!

His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow, And the beard on his chin was as white as the snow; The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth, And the smoke, it encircled his head like a wreath; He had a broad face and a little round belly That shook when he laughed, like a bowl full of jelly.

He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf, And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself; A wink of his eye and a twist of his head Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread; He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work, And filled all the stockings; then turned with a jerk, And laying his finger aside of his nose, And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose; He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle, And away they all flew like the down of a thistle.

But I heard him exclaim, ere he drove out of sight— “Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night!”

WeAreProsper.com | 9

Life & Luxury Magazine Family

How to Make the Holidays Less Stressful for the Whole Family Between changes in routine and visiting family (or having them visit you), the holidays can be emotionally overwhelming for children and adults alike, even in “normal times.” Add in inclement weather, the desire for a perfect holiday and parents still working, and you have a perfect cocktail for emotional meltdowns.

“The key to enjoying whatever this holiday season brings is to acknowledge the range of emotions the entire family may be feeling and hold space for those feelings,” said Ariel Acosta from KinderCare’s Inclusion Services team. “By working on a few key things now before the heightened expectations and busyness set in, families can build a toolbox of skills that will help make the season less stressful for everyone.”

Consider these tips to help families prepare for a less stressful holiday season.

FIND WAYS TO DESTRESS AS A FAMILY Throw on some music and have a dance party. Incorporate some simple yoga moves or stretches into your day to create mindful moments. Help your children create a list of calm-down techniques to choose from when they start to become overwhelmed or as a way to reset after an outburst, such as taking a deep breath.

SET EXPECTATIONS FOR GREETINGS Talk with your children about your family’s expectations around greetings and help them think of and practice different ways to say hello, such as a hug, handshake, high-five, wave or verbal greeting. Giving your children options ahead of time allows them to choose the greeting that feels most comfortable in the moment. To lessen the pressure, make sure family members and friends understand what you and your children are comfortable with. For example, “It looks like Zazil doesn’t want a hug right now, Auntie Mei. Perhaps a high-five would be better.”

10 | WeAreProsper.com

GIVE YOUR CHILDREN (AND YOURSELF) GRACE Talk with your children about the range of emotions you feel throughout the day. This can help them learn emotional literacy and flexible thinking.

It also normalizes feelings. When a big feeling does happen, remember to connect before you correct by labeling and validating your child’s emotions: “I can see that you’re really sad we have to leave the party.

Leaving makes me feel sad, too. What would help you feel better?”

If your child is engaged in unsafe behaviors, like hitting, wait until after everyone is calm before talking about what could be done differently next time.

“How you handle your mistakes can be a powerful example for your children,” Acosta said. “Once you’re calm, explain what happened to your children. Start by naming your emotion, apologize if you didn’t handle your feelings well and let your children know what you plan to do differently next time. ‘I was really mad you two were arguing and I yelled.

I shouldn’t have done that. Next time, I’m going to try to remember to take some deep breaths to help me speak more kindly.’”

For more tips to help your children with social and emotional development, visit kindercare.com.

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Life & Luxury Magazine Community

From the Desk of Dr. Holly Ferguson

A Few Highlights from 2021

Hello Prosper ISD! The 2021 year will be closing this month and it is hard to believe how quickly the first half of the school year has gone. We have had an incredible start to this school year, and on behalf of your board of trustees and district administration, I want to thank our students, families, staff, and community for supporting our district. I want to share a few highlights from Prosper ISD. Amidst all the normal excitement of the first day of school, we were thrilled to open two new elementary schools - Mrs. Jerry Bryant Elementary and Mike and Janie Reeves Elementary. Both new schools were funded from the voter-approved 2019 bond, and we had wonderful ribbon-cutting ceremonies for each campus earlier in August, setting the tone for learning excellence and honoring each school’s namesakes. There is nothing better than recognizing and honoring members of the Prosper community who have made a true and lasting impact by naming a campus after them. And what a thrill to see those families walk through the doors of those facilities for the first time! When the doors finally opened for business on the first day of school on August 11, we had more than 600 students walking the hallways of both campuses.

Opening new schools is always fun, but there is a business side to opening those schools as well. Every new elementary we open costs the district about $4 million dollars in new campus staffing. So, while hyper-sonic growth like what we are seeing makes staffing new schools difficult, it also creates a huge budget planning challenge, because our funding is tied to student attendance and those numbers are so hard to predict.

It is important to note that 83 percent of our expense budget goes toward staff salaries, with the other 17 percent mostly going toward fixed costs like transportation and utilities. As you can imagine, it is challenging to reduce the expense budget when the majority of it goes toward things we don’t want to cut, like staffing, or things we can’t cut, like buses or keeping the lights on!

Despite these challenges, our administration and campuses worked diligently last year to trim expenses wherever possible, without impacting the strong educational and extracurricular opportunities people move to Prosper for. Even better, we were able to lower the tax rate from $1.67 in 2019 to $1.49 in 2020 to $1.46 in 2021. The tax rate in Prosper ISD is at an all-time low. That is great news for our district and for our taxpayers!

Our students continue to amaze and impress! We had 107 Prosper ISD students recognized by the 2021 National Merit Scholarship Program. This is an all-time high for Prosper ISD. Congratulations to these students for being identified for their academic talents, and a big THANK YOU to all the teachers, parents, and leaders who helped them along the way!

We continue to have success with our sports and fine arts at both Prosper High School and Rock Hill High School. The Prosper High School Girls Cross Country Team took 2nd at UIL State in November, and this is the best finish in school history. In addition, we had 23 student-athletes sign on early signing day to play at the next level and continue both their athletic and academic careers. What a great way to continue our legacy of excellence.

Finally, I want to share that Prosper ISD was named for the eighth year in a row as the Top 100 Places to Work in DFW. This is such a prestigious award because our competition is not only school districts but businesses too. The reason we are able to continue to shine is because of our students, staff, parents, and community. I would also like to thank the Prosper ISD School Board and Prosper Education Foundation for their unwavering support. You all are the best and together we continue to do amazing things!

Thank you for choosing Prosper ISD! We are grateful you are part of the Prosper family, where we are Grounded by Tradition, and Soaring to New Beginnings!

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and Happy New Year to you ALL!

Dr. Holly Ferguson Prosper ISD Superintendent 12 | WeAreProsper.com

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Life & Luxury Magazine Community

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Prosper Christmas Festival Offers a Magical Experience for the Whole Family Event Set for December 4, from 3:00 – 7:00 p.m., at Prosper Town Hall

The Prosper Christmas Festival, the Town’s premier event of the year, returns to Town Hall in 2021 with splendor! On December 4, from 3:00p.m. to 7:00p.m., the community will celebrate Christmas in Prosper style with the Community Tree Lighting, Santa’s Workshop, Kids Christmas Shoppe, Kids Fun Zone, local talent on the Community Stage, Carriage Rides, live demonstrations, shopping for all ages, food truck vendors and fireworks.

New, magical exhibits include Santa’s Barn (featuring reindeer treats); Frosty the Snowman’s house; the Gingerbread House; and a glittery Winter Wonderland, all designed to delight and entertain! The festival will conclude with Prosper Mayor Ray Smith leading the children in the exciting countdown to the annual tree lighting and fireworks. The event, presented by the Prosper Parks and Recreation Department, is free of charge.

As a prelude to the festival, at 2:30 p.m., the Prosper Rotary Club Christmas Parade will wind down Broadway Street to the festival grounds. For parade details and entry forms, please contact the Prosper Rotary Club at prosperrotary@prosperrotary.org.

Festivalgoers will find community spirit in abundance at the Prosper Christmas Festival. Expect to see Prosper-based businesses, nonprofit groups, local artisans, Town officials and sponsors joining together for a celebration that is uniquely Prosper! Make sure to meet the inspirational youth entrepreneurs who bring amazing stories of living and doing business in Prosper to this year’s event. Also sprinkled throughout the grounds will be live demonstrations of painting, wreath-making and gourd sculptures.

At the heart of the Prosper Christmas Festival are sponsors providing support at various levels. Texas Health Prosper returns for a sixth year as Title Sponsor and the Town also welcomes The Cliff Freeman Group, brokered by eXp Realty, as a 2021 Title Sponsor.

Cook Children’s Medical Center Prosper, returns for the second year as Sponsor of The Kids Christmas Shoppe.

At The Gold Sponsor level are: Prosper’s Finest A/C and Heat, returning for the fourth year as the Community Stage Sponsor; The Gin, joining the group as Santa’s Workshop Sponsor; and Carpet Tech joining as Carriage Ride Sponsor.

Children’s activities are also a hallmark of the event. In the Kids Zone will be inflatables, a carnival ride and balloon artists. Within the exhibit area, kids will have creative fun decorating cookies and making clay ornaments.

Young shoppers will find treasures in the Kids Christmas Shoppe! Open from 3:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., the Shoppe gives children ages 4 to 12 the opportunity to learn the blessings of giving, as gifts can be purchased for parents, grandparents and siblings, with help, in a secure environment.

Fifteen-minute shopping shifts will run through 6:30 p.m. Pre-registration is required. Please note that the Kids Christmas Shoppe operates on a cashonly basis and is not equipped to accept credit or debit cards. For those looking to sign up their child for a shopping shift, the registration table near Town Hall will be open from 2:45p.m. to 6:15p.m. near Town Hall. Proceeds from the Kids Christmas Shoppe benefit the Recreational Scholarship Fund, which assists Prosper residents in attending camps and classes when they are financially unable to do so.

Those looking for a special gift or goodie will have many choices. Items for sale include handmade items by talented Prosper artisans, original paintings, ladies boutique and children’s fashions, jewelry, macrame, wooden bowls and trays, hand-crafted ornaments, jewelry, charcuterie-boards, homemade jams, hand-poured candles, bath and body care products, pet treats, cookies, wellness products, chocolates and home décor.

Parking is limited in the downtown Prosper area. Attendees are encouraged to park and ride the free shuttle to and from the event. Shuttles will run from Reynolds Middle School, 700 N. Coleman Street and Prosper High School beginning at 1:30 p.m. and continue to run as long as needed to return attendees to their vehicles. An ADA bus will run from Reynolds Middle School and a limited number of ADA parking spaces will be available on the east side of Town Hall.

Detailed information about the Prosper Christmas Festival, including road closures, stage performance schedule, Kids Christmas Shoppe particulars, and the complete list of Sponsors and Exhibitors, can be found at ProsperChristmas.org. To reach the Prosper Parks and Recreation Department, please call 972-569-1160.

The Prosper Parks and Recreation Department produces a year-round schedule of activities and events which promote family and neighbor interaction within the community. Registration for classes and classes is now open at prosperparksandrec.org. Special programs for Adults 55+ include weekly cards and games and Prosper Bowling every Tuesday. For news and information about Parks and Recreation facilities and programs, please visit the Parks and Recreation Facebook page, prosperparksandrec.org and prospertx.gov.

WeAreProsper.com | 15

Around Town

16 | WeAreProsper.com

WeAreProsper.com | 17

Life & Luxury Magazine Homefront

7 Tips to Pick the Right Home Service Providers One of the most frustrating challenges of keeping a home in top shape is finding reliable help when you need it. Whether your home projects are emergency repairs or planned upgrades, it’s critical to find the right home service providers.

There are likely plenty of plumbers, contractors, remodelers, carpenters, handymen and painters in your area, but it can be difficult to choose which ones can be counted on to do the job right.

Consider these simple, straightforward, free tips from the experts at Best Picks Reports to help guide you through the process of picking home service providers for any type of home project.

Know Exactly What You Need Done Begin by having a clear idea of the work that needs done to your home.

The more specific your intended outcome, the better.

For example, it’s fine to know you would like to remodel your bathroom.

However, it’s better to know you want to redo the countertop, sink and tile work, but you’re fine leaving the toilet and tub untouched.

Knowing the scope of work you want done can help you find the best home services professional for the job. It can also improve the likelihood the quotes you receive are as accurate as possible.

Ask Around Ask your neighbors, friends, family members and co-workers to recommend home service providers they’ve hired.

18 | WeAreProsper.com

Asking around is an easy and reliable way to get credible recommendations. It can be especially helpful if you’re new to the neighborhood. A word-of-mouth recommendation often speaks volumes about a service provider’s reputation because it comes from a customer with first-hand experience working with the provider.

Compare notes from different neighbors then narrow the list down to the most popular and highly recommended names to continue vetting.

Search Social Media Social media platforms can be excellent sources of information. Just search nearby home service providers by name and see what others are saying about them.

Some home service providers may even include testimonials and beforeand-after pictures of recent projects on their social media feeds. These can give you an idea of the quality of their work.

Research Your Choices Whether you get your recommendations from friends, family, or social media, take each one with a grain of salt. Do some digging of your own, researching each option.

For each service provider you’re considering, look into any qualifications and certifications they may hold, including any areas of specialization that may be pertinent, and ensure they have the proper licenses and bonding to take on your project. Also check to see what kinds of

assurances and guarantees they back their work with.

You can do your homework by visiting websites, making phone calls or both. If you’d like to make the process more efficient, start online. When you’ve narrowed your search to 2-3 options, make phone calls. Calling providers can also provide a first-hand example of their professionalism and customer service capabilities.

Use a Verified Directory and Online Reviews Look for unbiased customer reviews on independent business directories, forums and review websites. These printed directories and online sites often use a combination of third-party research and consumer reviews to rate contractors. Some even offer guarantees on the quality of work.

For example, a directory mailed to homeowners, like the Best Pick Reports, provides recommended pros that have been thoroughly, independently reviewed via an unparalleled certification process.

Contractors are included in the report by invitation, which is extended only to companies that have met strict qualifying criteria. Plus, you’ll have the peace of mind that comes with the Best Pick Guarantee. If you’re not satisfied with a guaranteed service provider, you’ll be reimbursed.

Other sites, such as Five Star Rated, the Better Business Bureau and Google Business Reviews, can provide additional background information and reviews to help ensure you’re making the best choice possible.

With guides like these, you can expect candid information about who does the best work, along with certification of licensing, insurance, and best business practices. Be sure to avoid sites where highly rated reviews can be purchased.

Review Examples of Finished Projects Most home service professionals have portfolios of their work. This is especially true for remodelers, renovators, painters, landscapers, and other skilled craftsmen whose work is as much about style as it is quality.

As you look through samples of previous work, pay attention to details.

Check if everything looks absolutely perfect or if you notice any flaws.

Make sure their style is similar to what you’re seeking and look for samples that are similar to the kind of work you want done.

If you don’t see what you’re looking for – or if you notice discrepancies in the quality of their work – don’t be afraid to ask questions. This is your chance to find out all the information you can about the provider and its ability to complete your project.

Seek Multiple Well-Defined Bids Even if you have a good feeling about the first home service professional you talk to, don’t stop shopping around. Instead, make it a point to get a minimum of three bids before you enter a contract with anyone. This way you’ll have a better idea of whether you’re getting a good deal when you have other proposals to compare it to.

Local Expertise Innovative Approach Real Integrity STACY CATE

Not all home service professionals are created equal. It could easily be the second (or third) provider you talk to who ends up being the most impressive. However, you won’t know that if you end the process with the first bid within your budget.

You’re hiring someone who will work in your home. You owe it to yourself and your family to make sure you’re hiring a professional, trustworthy person (or team) for the job.

The best plan is often a combination of these steps and more. That doesn’t mean you have to work through every suggestion, but maybe you ask around, check online reviews, and make a few calls. Do enough investigating to get a solid feel for any provider you plan to hire.

Find more information about service providers in your area at BestPickReports.com.

WeAreProsper.com | 19

Life & Luxury Magazine Growing Prosper

Answering your Holiday Season Questions I have tried to keep up all year with all your questions A-Z! With communities growing at the fastest pace in our history, Texas is the place to be it seems! The growing demand for answers and my company growing faster than ever, I decided to try to filter through a lot of them and thought my Holiday gift and thanks to all our readers would be to provide some insight to help the most possible. I always feel blessed to be in the “Happy Business” …yes, we actually make clients happy for a living, how great is that?! On to some wide-ranging topics.

FERTILIZE • New annual color plantings with high-nitrogen, water-soluble plant food to get them off to a great start. Repeat weekly until weather turns cold.

• Ryegrass and fescue turf with high-nitrogen lawn food now.

These are cool-season grasses that utilize nutrients well during cool weather. If you are feeding ryegrass that has been planted to overseed existing Bermuda or other warm-season turf, use only a half-rate application. You do not want to stimulate vigorous new growth of the Bermuda this late in the season.

However, apply enough to give the rye a boost.

PLANT • Set out Pansies, Violas, Pinks, Ornamental Cabbage and Kale, Swiss Chard, Dusty Miller, Rosemary Cones and other winter color plants so they can grow as much as possible before winter rolls in.

• This is a great time to plant shrubs and trees. Nurseries have replenished much of their supplies after last February’s cold, but they’re also selling down stock to make room for Christmas trees.

• Absolute last call for dividing and replanting spring-flowering perennials.

• Plant daffodils, narcissus, summer snowflake and grape hyacinths as soon as you buy them. Refrigerate Tulips and Dutch hyacinths for at least 45 days at 45F before planting them into garden during last two weeks of December.

“Can I still plant new sod? Will it survive the winter?”

Bermudagrass sod has the best chance (nearly 100 percent) of surviving the winter in most of Texas if planted right now.

Zoysia would probably be fine as well. St. Augustine is much more tender. You really ought to wait until mid-April to plant it.

Soils are cooling rapidly now, and the grass just won’t establish as quickly as needed. All things considered, if the choice were mine, I’d wait until April to plant all three. I know that is not always the case with everyone.

PRUNE • Tidy up overgrown or even February-damaged shrubs now. If you have major reshaping to do, hold off until mid-January.

• Remove browned and dead stalks, stems, leaves and seed heads from perennials and stem stubble from annual gardens.

• Dead or damaged branches from shade trees while you can still identify them. It is much more difficult to do so once they lose their leaves, and that time is near at hand. This would include branches of oaks, elms, pears and other trees that were killed back part way by the February cold. Dormancy is always best!

“Is it too late to apply a glyphosate herbicide such as Roundup to kill grass and weeds where I want to plant a vegetable garden next spring?”

It’s not too late, but don’t put it off. Once the unwanted vegetation has been exposed to one frost or freeze it will turn brown and the glyphosate won’t do anything to control it.

Glyphosates only enter through green leaf and stem tissues. Be careful, too, that your herbicide only contains glyphosate. There are combination products that contain other ingredients that can hang around in the soil longer than you want. Glyphosates are not active in the soil. Apply on the warmest days you are able to.

20 | WeAreProsper.com

“Can I still plant ryegrass seed now?”

Yes, but do so as soon as you can. Once it turns cooler/cold the seed will sit on top of the ground and wait until February to germinate. It will still look nice in the spring, but you will have lost much of the enjoyment of having green turf this winter.

“What’s the difference between a “cactus” and a “succulent?”

A “succulent” is a plant that has evolved an ability to retain water to survive periods of extended drought. Accurately speaking, a “cactus” is a member of the Cactus Family, or Cetacea. A plant taxonomist could run it through a plant ID key and he or she would find that it fits in that exact plant family.

Almost all members of the Cactus Family are succulents, but most plants that we call “succulents” are not members of the Cactus plant family. Succulents also include plants like aloes, crown of thorns, jade plant and hen-and-chicks, yuccas, agaves, starfish flowers (Stapelias) and hundreds of other plants from many other plant families.

Did you know that all members of the Cactus Family were native originally to the Western Hemisphere? Euphorbias such as crown-of-thorns and Ball cactus are native to the Eastern Hemisphere.

Although they look very much like cacti, they are sisters to poinsettias.

“What makes a Christmas cactus bloom?”

Most folks are aware that poinsettias require 14 hours of uninterrupted darkness each night if we expect them to bloom at Christmas. There is a flowering hormone is produced in the growing tips of the stems, and that hormone is destroyed by light during the dark.

That same thing happens with Christmas cacti and kalanchoes. These are plants that cannot be exposed to room lights at night on a regular basis if we expect them to bloom properly. So, best to cover them from 5 p.m. until 8 a.m., or we put them into a dark room and are careful not to go in and turn on the lights in the process.

In fairness to that discussion Kalanchoes and Christmas Cacti Are not as sensitive to short interruptions of light as poinsettias, but you still need to be careful. Well once again, I am out of space and time. Will answer more personally back to you through email and upcoming Columns. From my family to yours, we hope you have a safe, happy holiday season! Until next time…. Happy Gardening!!

Send your landscaping and gardening questions to Jimmie Gibson Jr. at http://www. absolutelybushedlandscaping. com or jimmie@absolutelybushed. com. Jimmie is a Prosper resident and the owner of Absolutely Bushed Landscaping Company, an award winning, family and veteran owned and operated business created in 1980 to provide the highest quality custom Outdoor Renovation available to homeowners in the Dallas Ft. Worth area.

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Life In &GLuxury ood Magazine Taste

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Special Centerpieces for Holiday Celebrations Few things bring family and friends together quite like the holidays, and serving up an elegant, seasonal meal centered around a mouthwatering main dish is a recipe for creating lasting memories with the ones you love.

Forging a fabulous holiday experience for the special people in your life starts with choosing a flavorful, tender cut of meat to serve as the centerpiece of the meal. Hand-cut by expert butchers, options like Spiral-Sliced Ham, Boneless Heart of Prime Rib Roast and Butcher’s Cut Filet Mignons from Omaha Steaks can serve as the focal point of a memorable holiday dinner.

Flash frozen to capture freshness and flavor, you can select a standout cut of meat from the comfort of your home and have it delivered directly to your door in time to put together a tender, juicy main course. Find more holiday recipe inspiration at OmahaSteaks.com/blog/recipes.

RUM AND COLA HOLIDAY HAM

Recipe courtesy of Omaha Steaks Executive Chef David Rose Ham: 1 Omaha Steaks Spiral-Sliced Ham (8 pounds) Glaze: 1 cup cherry fruit spread 3/4 cup dark spiced rum 3/4 cup cola 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt To make ham: Thaw frozen ham in refrigerator 24-48 hours.

Remove from refrigerator and let ham come to room temperature, about 30-45 minutes.

Preheat oven to 325 F. Remove ham from foil and film. Return ham to foil wrapping and place in oven-safe roasting pan. Roll foil down leaving 2 inches of foil around bottom of ham.

Place roasting pan with ham in oven on lower rack and heat uncovered 60-75 minutes, until ham starts to brown. While ham cooks, make glaze.

To make glaze: In medium saucepot, whisk fruit spread, rum, cola, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard and salt until well incorporated. Bring to boil then reduce heat to medium. Simmer over medium heat 10 minutes then remove from heat. Cool to room temperature.

During last 15 minutes of cooking, glaze ham every 5 minutes.

WeAreProsper.com | 23

Life In &GLuxury ood Magazine Taste DIJON-HERB PRIME RIB ROAST WITH GARLIC BUTTER MUSHROOMS Recipe courtesy of Omaha Steaks Executive Chef David Rose Dijon-Herb Rub: 1/4 cup minced fresh Italian parsley 1/4 cup minced fresh oregano 1/4 cup minced fresh thyme leaves 1/4 cup minced fresh rosemary leaves 3 fresh garlic cloves, minced 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 1/2 cup canola oil 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika Prime Rib Roast: 1 Omaha Steaks Boneless Heart of Prime Rib Roast (4 pounds), thawed kosher salt, to taste ground black pepper, to taste 1/4 cup canola oil

Add mushrooms and pinch of salt and ground pepper to pan. Saute 3-4 minutes, or until mushrooms are tender.

Garlic Butter Mushrooms:

Add chicken stock and reduce to one-third in volume, 3-4 minutes.

6 tablespoons olive oil 1/2 cup small diced yellow onion 4 fresh garlic cloves, minced 1 pound button mushrooms, cleaned and quartered 1 pinch kosher salt, plus additional, to taste, divided 1 pinch ground black pepper, plus additional, to taste, divided 1/2 cup chicken stock 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 1/4 cup finely chopped Italian parsley To make rub: In medium bowl, whisk parsley, oregano, thyme, rosemary, garlic, Dijon mustard, oil, salt, black pepper and paprika until well incorporated.

Add butter and parsley to pan and saute until butter is melted and incorporated. Immediately remove from heat and season, to taste, with salt and pepper.

Serve mushrooms with prime rib roast.

SUYA-DUSTED FILET MIGNON WITH “RED RICE” RISOTTO Recipe courtesy of Omaha Steaks Executive Chef David Rose Suya Dust: 2 cups roasted cashews 1 tablespoon chicken bouillon 1 tablespoon, plus 1 teaspoon, smoked paprika 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

To make prime rib roast: Pat prime rib roast dry on all sides with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper, to taste. Allow roast to come to room temperature about 30 minutes.

Rub Dijon herb rub all over prime rib roast and allow to stand 10 minutes.

1 teaspoon ground black pepper 2 teaspoons. ground ginger 2 teaspoons garlic powder 2 teaspoons onion powder

Preheat oven to 250 F. In large cast-iron pan, warm oil over medium-high heat.

“Red Rice” Risotto:

Sear roast on all sides until golden brown, 2-3 minutes per side.

3 tablespoons canola oil

Place seared prime rib on wire rack-lined sheet pan and place in oven.

1/2 cup diced yellow onion

Cook until internal temperature is 10 F below desired cooking doneness.

3 fresh garlic cloves, smashed

Rest 15-20 minutes before slicing.

1 tablespoon tomato paste

To make mushrooms: In large pan, warm olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced onions and saute about 1 minute.

Add minced garlic and lightly saute until fragrant, about 20 seconds.

24 | WeAreProsper.com

1/2 cup diced red bell pepper 1 large beefsteak tomato (about 1/2 pound), chopped 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

lightly caramelized, about 1 minute.

Add tomato paste to pan and saute until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add chopped tomato, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper; continue sauteing until tomato starts to break down and soften, 3-4 minutes. Reduce heat to simmer and cook 3-4 minutes.

Remove from heat and finely blend in food processor. Set aside.

In separate medium saucepan, warm olive oil and butter over medium-high heat.

Add Arborio rice and stir until slightly nutty and translucent, about 1 minute.

Add pureed tomato-pepper mixture and 1 cup chicken stock; bring to boil then reduce heat to medium.

Add 1 cup stock each time Arborio rice absorbs almost all broth.

Continuously stir risotto each time stock is added to rice. Keep adding stock until risotto is al dente and still viscous then stir in parsley and Parmesan cheese. Season, to taste, with salt and pepper, if desired.

To make filet mignon: Pat steaks dry with paper towels and liberally season with salt and ground black pepper on both sides.

In large cast-iron skillet, warm canola oil over medium-high heat.

Place filets in skillet and sear 3 minutes.

1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus additional, to taste, divided (optional) 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper, plus additional, to taste, divided (optional)

Flip steaks and add butter, garlic clove and thyme. Baste steaks with butter and allow filets to finish cooking, 3-4 minutes for medium-rare doneness.

Rest filets 7-8 minutes. Serve over “red rice” risotto and sprinkle suya dust over filets.

2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 1/2 cups Arborio rice 4 cups warmed chicken stock, divided 1/2 cup finely chopped Italian parsley 1 cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese Filet Mignon: 4 Omaha Steaks Butcher’s Cut Filet Mignons (6 ounces each) kosher salt ground black pepper 4 tablespoons canola oil 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 clove garlic 1 thyme sprig To make suya dust: In food processor, blend cashews, chicken bouillon, paprika, cayenne pepper, bell pepper, black pepper, ginger, garlic powder and onion powder into fine powder.

To make “red rice” risotto: In medium saucepan, warm canola oil over medium-high heat. Add onions, garlic and red bell pepper, sauteing until WeAreProsper.com | 25

Life In &GLuxury ood Magazine Taste

A Perfectly Layered Pie The star of your next spread can be hidden away in the refrigerator for a surprise delight for your guests. It’s topped with chocolate syrup and chopped pecans, and your loved ones just may vote it to be their favorite dish. It’s an Arkansas Possum Pie, made with three delicious layers and crunchy toppings for a show-stopping dessert.

Whether it’s a holiday, birthday or reunion, this pie is a perfect conversation starter. It’s sweet, crunchy and filled with creamy, delightful layers of goodness. Find more unique dessert recipes at Culinary.net. If you made this recipe at home, use #MyCulinaryConnection on your favorite social network to share your work.

Pudding Layer: 3 egg yolks 2 cups whole milk 1 cup sugar 1/3 cup cocoa powder 3 tablespoons cornstarch 2 tablespoons flour 1/4 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons butter 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Whipped Cream Topping: 1 cup heavy whipping cream

ARKANSAS POSSUM PIE Crust: 3/4 cup butter 1 1/2 cups flour 1/2 cup brown sugar

4 tablespoons powdered sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract chocolate syrup 1/2 cup chopped pecans Heat oven to 350 F.

1 1/2 cups pecans, crushed Cream Cheese Layer: 12 ounces cream cheese, softened 1 cup powdered sugar 4 tablespoons heavy cream 26 | WeAreProsper.com

To make cream cheese layer: In medium bowl, mix cream cheese until creamy. Add powdered sugar and heavy cream; mix until smooth. Spread over cooled pecan crust. Refrigerate.

To make crust: In saucepan, melt butter; add flour, brown sugar and crushed pecans. Stir until combined. Press into 9 1/2-inch deep pie plate. Bake 15-20 minutes until crust begins to brown. Cool completely.

To make pudding layer: In medium bowl, whisk egg yolks. Add milk; whisk until combined. Set aside. In separate medium bowl, whisk sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, flour and salt until combined.

In saucepan over medium heat, add egg yolk mixture and flour mixture. Whisk constantly until pudding begins to thicken and bubble. Add butter and vanilla extract, stirring until butter is melted.

Pour chocolate pudding in shallow bowl.

Cover with plastic wrap touching pudding to keep it from forming skin. Refrigerate 30 minutes. Pour pudding over cream cheese layer. Cover pie with plastic wrap.

Refrigerate overnight.

To make whipped cream topping: In stand mixer bowl, add heavy cream, powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Whip until stiff peaks form. Spread whipped cream over pudding layer. Drizzle pie with chocolate syrup and sprinkle with chopped pecans.

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Life & Luxury Magazine Fashion

What to Wear for Christmas Events: Our Edit for the Most Wonderful Time of the Year Ho, ho, ho. Like elves, we’re busy curating a mix of inspiration and information to have you looking your best this Christmas season. With all the events dotting your calendar, it’s time to start planning outfits. Are you heading to a farm to select a tree to decorate? Perhaps your inbox is filling up with invites to cookie swaps, company parties and a fancy shindig or two. Wondering what to wear for Christmas events this year? Don’t worry. We’ve got you covered.

From casual to couture, get ready to rock around the tree in style. It’s officially time to get into the holiday spirit. Read on for our tips for a fashionable 12 days of Christmas for women.

DECK THE HALLS IN STYLE When December arrives, it’s time to kick preparations into high gear. From baking family favorites to decorating your home—the to-do list can appear naughty and nice. Keep it casual yet chic while ticking off items from your checklist. For an ensemble that takes you from a tree farm to the mall, reach for your favorite jeans. This woman’s wardrobe hero will get you through the season in style.

When thinking about what to wear for Christmas, reach for denim that goes the extra mile. For all-day comfort and movement, savor this season’s trending straight-leg jeans and rock a higher waistline. You’ll thank us when you’re placing a star at the top of the tree or sampling another cookie. Easily style dark-rinse jeans with a Fair Isle sweater and boots this December for serious après-ski vibes. Also scoring major style points in women’s winter 2021 fashion are lug-sole boots. Grab this utilitarian style for winter walks to admire neighborhood lights or department store windows decorated for the season. Your feet will thank you when you’re walking in a winter wonderland.

WHAT TO WEAR TO A CHRISTMAS PARTY During the Christmas season, nestled in between the mail are a plethora of green, red, and metallic lined envelopes spreading cheer and joy with updates from near and far. Aside from smiling photos, this pile may also contain an invitation or two to celebrate the season. Whether you’re headed to a tree-trimming party, ice skating gathering or swanky soiree, it’s time to plan your ‘fit. Rules have changed, and this time of year we follow the mantra, more is more. When wondering what to wear to a Christmas party, consider the time of day, venue and any dress code indicated on the invitation. Do you have gatherings planned for the outdoors? Baby, it’s cold outside, so level up your outerwear for a feminine, yet polished look. Or snuggle up with a blanket scarf for a festive feel. Read on to see how we’re getting ready for parties this yuletide season.

TREE TRIMMING PARTY ENSEMBLES If you’re heading to an intimate tree trimming party, keep your ensemble simple, yet cheerful. Women’s sweaters are having a major moment. They’re the perfect solution when trying to figure out what to wear to Christmas parties. This season, we’re crushing on vegan-leather skirts paired with soft sweaters with elevated details. Think square necklines ideal for framing delicate layering necklaces. Or perfect puff-sleeve pullovers that add just the right amount of drama when you’re decorating the tree. For a gift for the hostess with the mostess, bring an ornament and your favorite appetizer to share. After all, tree trimming parties are collaborative; it’s all about making memories with family and friends.

28 | WeAreProsper.com

WHAT TO WEAR TO AN OFFICE CHRISTMAS LUNCH Lunch holiday event toasting to the crew? Yes, please. When thinking about what to wear to an office Christmas lunch, keep it effortless. Consider the type of women’s business attire you typically wear to the office and elevate it with dazzling accessories. If your workwear go-to includes black trousers, pair them with a blouse with feminine details. We’re talking about everything from silky fabrications to sheer sleeve details. Make it a December to remember with a bow blouse to evoke the packages under the tree for a special Christmas twist.

WHAT TO WEAR ON CHRISTMAS EVE TO CHURCH Are you going to church for services or is a concert full of your favorite carols on the to-do list? Then thinking about what to wear on Christmas Eve to church is undoubtedly on the agenda. For midnight Mass, you’ll want to arrive early to score a seat. When running into old and new friends, let your layers do the work. Wool-blend overcoats provide much-needed warmth on a frosty December night and win a ton of style points. If the weather allows, leave your coat unbuttoned to highlight your dress. Keep your legs warm with tights. Choose from patterned or opaque stockings to complement your apparel. Play it safe with flats or a low-stacked heel in case you arrive late and it’s standing room only.

OUTFIT INSPIRATION FOR A CHRISTMAS EVE OPEN HOUSE ‘Twas the night before Christmas, and you find yourself home for the holiday. Wondering what to wear for Christmas to visit friends and family?

Keep it straightforward for impromptu neighborhood get-togethers and open houses. We’re mad for plaid. Choose traditional tartans like Royal Stewart and Black Watch for pants or skirts. Timeless checks are never a bad idea in our holiday style book. Think buffalo, houndstooth and tattersall. Pair your plaid with cashmere sweaters, organza blouses or soft knit turtlenecks. Round out your outfit with gold statement earrings to glitter and glow alongside a pair of slingback flats. Don’t forget to check your list (twice) to make sure you wish your nearest and dearest season’s greetings.

SLEIGH ALL DAY IN PJS FOR THE COZIEST CHRISTMAS You have our permission, not that you need it, to spend the day in your pajamas. Go ahead—let visions of Sugar Plum fairies dance in your head.

Opt for sleepwear in playful patterns and luxurious fabrics. Treat yourself to fuzzy slippers and a knotted headband for a Hallmark channel movie marathon. If your family tradition involves going to the movies and bringing home takeout, swap your PJs for loungewear sets. No need to knit pick, but we love velour jogger sets with slip-on sneakers for next-level leisurewear.

Deciding what to wear for Christmas can be as simple as reaching for your coziest pieces to stay toasty. Now that’s a gift that keeps on giving.

WHAT TO WEAR ON CHRISTMAS DAY No matter your plans, figuring out what to wear on Christmas day for any woman can be tricky. Let your schedule be your guide. Are you hoping for a low-key day that’s full of opening presents and seeing what surprises were left in the stockings? A dressed-down day calls for pajamas, slippers and elevated leisure sets. Hosting the in-laws and looking to dress to the nines to celebrate your favorite holiday? Don a lush velvet jumpsuit, heels and add sparkle with gem embellished hoop earrings. From comfy and cozy by the fire to chic and shimmering at the dining room table, anything goes on December 25th. This is the day to lean into soft fabrications in rich colors all while making a bold statement.

Article is compliments of Rory Stenback and Sheri Epps-Frederito with Stitch Fix. Visit http://www.stitchfix.com to schedule your next fix!

WeAreProsper.com | 29

Life & Luxury Magazine Travel

Stay Safe on the Road This Winter 5 Tire Safety Tips for Cold Weather

From slick roads caused by snow and ice to cold temperatures that can wreak havoc on many vehicle components, winter driving can prove challenging for even the most experienced drivers. When temperatures drop, it’s important to pay attention to your tires, as they are the only direct link to the road below. At 45 F – the same temperature you can see your breath – all-season tires start to lose their traction and gripping capabilities, becoming dangerous in cold and wet weather. To help stay safe on the road this winter, consider these tips from the experts at your local Discount Tire.

Get Pressure Right and Check It Often Tires lose air due to impacts and pressure of bumps and turns. At least once a month, especially before long trips, check the air pressure in your tires when they’re cool. Low pressure can lead to poor handling and gas mileage, excessive wear and overloading. Colder temperatures can also impact air pressure. For every 10-degree drop in ambient temperature, tires lose one pound of pressure (PSI). Keep a tire pressure gauge in your vehicle to ensure each tire is filled to the manufacturer’s recommended inflation level (typically located in the instruction manual and on the inside of the driver-side door) and add air as necessary.

Check Your Tread Tread depth determines a vehicle’s safe stopping distance, which is vital during winter weather. In extreme cold, the rubber of all-season or summer tires can stiffen and may not provide sufficient traction on snow or ice. You can check the tread depth by sticking a penny upside-down in a tread groove. It’s time to replace your tires if President Lincoln’s 30 | WeAreProsper.com

entire head is visible. You can also visit your local Discount Tire to have a technician check your tread with the industry’s first tire tread depth reading mobile computing system.

Rotate Often To help ensure proper traction, particularly during the winter months, tires should be rotated every 6,000 miles, or earlier if uneven wear develops. One easy way to remember: Have your tires rotated every other time you have your oil changed.

Double Check Your Trunk Many newer vehicles have replaced spare tires with tire inflation kits that include puncture-coating sealants and air compressors or run-flat tires. Check to see what is included with your vehicle and consider adding a roadside assistance plan in case you experience any issues during inclement weather.

Consult with an Expert Stay educated about your tires and know how to keep them safe. If it is time to replace your tires, begin with an option like the Treadwell online tire-buying guide. Using decades of data and experience, it delivers optimal winter tire recommendations personalized to your specific vehicle, where you live and your driving habits. By booking an appointment online for a free winter tire safety check at a local store like Discount Tire, you can experience a 30% shorter average wait time.

Plus, with an end-to end customer experience, you can even stay in your vehicle while service is performed.

For more winter tire safety information, or to find a location near you, visit DiscountTire.com.

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