Modern Texas Living Issue 4

Timeless Black & White

Style Staples

+

PRESSURES of being

a Woman

Relax Restore Renew with Bath Additions

Front Porch Sittin’ TIME OF YEAR

tfnbtx.com Tel: 254-840-2836

PUBLISHER Ashley Munn CREATIVE DIRECTOR Rachel McGee EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Michele Graves ART DIRECTOR Stefanie Kienstra ADVERTISING Ashley Jessen Natalie Galindo

Moderntexasliving.com Single copy free. Multiple copies may be available for purchase by contacting contact@moderntexasliving.com.

Modern Texas Living is published by Lifestylemag CentralTX, LLC. The cover and contents are protected by copyright and cannot be reproduced without prior written permission. All rights reserved. @Lifestylemag CentralTX, LLC.

MODERN TEXAS LIVING | 1

STAY at

Jimmy Don’s Cabin

Book Now

www.jdhirondesigns.com

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IN THIS

ISSUE 04 AT HOME Front Porch Sittin' 4 The Monotone Home 10 DIY Herbal Wreath 22 Playful Pots 26

30 IN THE KITCHEN The Perfect Scoop 30 Host a Backyard BBQ 32 One Base Many Ways 38

64 OF LIFE & STYLE Relax Restore & Renew 64 Black & White Staples 69 2 Simple Hair Dos 70 Kids' Memory Books 74 3 Ways to Take Better Photos 76

77 FROM THE HEART Love Makes A Family Update 77 Jessica's Story 78

Not Your Momma’s Cobbler 42

47 IN GOOD HEALTH Super Foods 47 The Pressures of Being a Woman 50 A Spoonful of Sugar 53

57 ON THE ROAD 10 Reasons to Frequent Fredericksburg 57

MODERN TEXAS LIVING | 3

AT HOME

Photo source: Nicki www.cottonwoodandco.com IG @cottonwoodandco

It’s the perfect time of year to do a little

front porch sittin`

Is there a better time to do a little front porch sittin’ as summer slowly fades into fall? The air is slightly thick and still warm as the cool breezes roll in. As the days get shorter, the sun sets over the horizon producing a painted sky of wild colors, but not before it appears like powdered gold over the grassy hillside. A rocking chair and a refreshing glass of sweet tea are just the type of slow down the soul needs. Join us as we tour the gorgeous front porches of a few incredibly talented bloggers.

MODERN TEXAS LIVING | 5

AT HOME

Photo source: Cami www.tidbits-cami.com IG @camitidbits

Opposite: Here, blogger Cami creates a cozy porch for al fresco dining by layering soft textures and throws.

Right: Chell from Cambridge Home Designs neutral color palette of white and grey accented with greenery and black touches is perfect for the transition of summer into fall.

Below: Nicki of Cotton Wood and Co welcomes her guests with soft garden vibes using lots of vegetation and white planters.

Photo source: Chell www.cambridgehomecompany.com IG @cambridgehomedesign

Photo source: Nicki www.cottonwoodandco.com IG @cottonwoodandco MODERN TEXAS LIVING | 7

AT HOME

Home of: Ashley Cochran IG @the_pleasant_farmhouse Photo source: Jennifer Ciani IG @ simpleciani This swoon worthy porch from the home of Ashley Cochran is so good you might want to spend your entire night out on it.

The vintage bed turned porch swing is a brilliant way to reuse and repurpose a headboard in the most beautiful way.

8 | moderntexasliving.com

Team Up with the Golden Stars in Real Estate

254.405.6162 Info@CJRealtors.com

|

www.camillejohnson.com

104 Midway Center Waco, TX 76712

AT HOME

the

Monotone Home We hung out with Meggie from True Lock Designs to chat about her design style and how her DIY husband and she are adding character to their new construction Texas home.

A

neutral color palette in a mix of dark woods and blacks with whites and softer raw woods creates an intimate and inviting home for the Truelock family. Their home might lack color, but it certainly doesn’t lack life. Meggie says, “Family spaces are important to us. Years from now, when I think back on the times we shared in this home, I’ll think of the endless Legos caught between my bare feet and the floors, or the make believe messes from room to room, and the countless paint, markers, and crayons that have made their mark on our table.”

Meggie, Texas native and stay-at-home mom, enjoys styling their home and planning big do-it-yourself design projects to keep her creative juices flowing. When we asked what she would describe her design style as, she feels it is mostly modern farmhouse accented with traditional elements throughout. “A harmonious mix of new and old is timeless to me.”

10 | moderntexasliving.com

AT HOME

Above: Meggie and her husband enjoy refurbishing found items. The couple’s most coveted thrift find is this giant old church pew, found under a heap of items in Old Town Tomball. Meggie created the Spanish tile artwork hanging overhead by using a stencil from Royal Studio. Her husband framed out the board she had painted and affixed to the wall as a unique piece of art for the space.

Opposite: This large, open kitchen works well for the family life Meggie talked about with us. It has that industrial feel, but is still welcoming.

12 | moderntexasliving.com

AT HOME

" A HAR M O N I O U S M I X O F N EW AN D O L D I S Â TI M E LE S S . "

Opposite: Modern textiles and a layered mantel give this space a clean aesthetic, while vintage pieces soften the overall feel. Here Meggie uses a vintage sewing stand as an end table.

Above: You can see a mix of modern vintage throughout their home, as well as a monotone color palette. By layering neutral hues, Meggie creates a depth to each space that is both aesthetically pleasing and evokes a feeling of calmness.

Want more from Meggie? You can visit www.truelockdesign.com or follow her on Instagram @truelockdesigns MODERN TEXAS LIVING | 15

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AnnaJohnsonRE MODERN TEXAS LIVING | 19

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A Legacy of Service SINCE 1867

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408 Lake Road Belton, TX 76513 (254) 933-7024 www.whimsiesboutique.com

AT HOME

DIY

Herbal Wreath

By Amy Williams

A

n herb wreath will transition beautifully in your home from summer to fall. It is a great way to greet your guests at the front door or welcome them to your kitchen. This wreath can be created with real, dried herbs from your garden or with faux greenery to last for years to come. The best part is that you can use any of your favorite herbs from sage, thyme, rosemary, basil, lavender or eucalyptus. It’s an easy DIY that takes less than 30 minutes to assemble.

22 | moderntexasliving.com

AT HOME

24 | moderntexasliving.com

IT I S A G R E AT WAY TO G R E E T YO U R GU E STS AT T H E F RO NT D O O R O R HANG I N YO U R KITC H E N .

STEP ONE: Gather your materials. You will need a grapevine wreath, wire cutters, floral wire and a variety of herbs. We used 9 stems of sage and 2 sprigs of cut eucalyptus.

STEP TWO: Separate and cut the stems into individual sprigs with wire cutters. We left the sage in larger bundles to fill out the wreath, but cut the eucalyptus into individual stems.

STEP THREE: Place the larger bundles of herbs directly into the grapevine wreath about 3-4 inches apart, in the same direction. Alternate between the inside and outside of the wreath so that you get the best coverage.

STEP FOUR: Place the individual stems sporadically around the bundles, alternating between the inside and outside of the main greenery.

STEP FIVE: Use floral wire to secure the middle of the stems to the wreath.

STEP SIX: Fluff the greenery to spread out the leaves and evenly cover the wreath. Most faux stems are made from wire so it is easy to bend. Your wreath is ready to hang.

Amy is a home decor and DIY blogger, stager and decorator in Waco, TX. Follow her on IG@cutortudor or visit the blog cutortudor.com MODERN TEXAS LIVING | 25

AT HOME

26 | moderntexasliving.com

DIY

Playful Pots

by Jill Nelson

L

ooking for an inexpensive craft project to do with your kids this summer?

Start by grabbing a few tiny terra-cotta pots and succulents from your local garden center or home improvement store and some craft paints and brushes from Hobby Lobby or Walmart.

One design idea is to paint the entire pot the color of your choice first, allow to dry, and then add a liberal amount of your second color only on the bottom inch or so of the pot. Flip it upside down, tilt it to the side, and let gravity do the rest.

The eraser end of a pencil makes for perfect polka dots.

Allow the base color to completely dry before adding the dots. Blot the eraser lightly on a paper towel after dipping into the polka dot color. Dip and blot again as needed.

If you have a brown thumb and don't trust yourself not to kill the succulents, you can create your own "cactus" with rocks.

Choose three or four different shaped rocks and paint in various shades of green. Once dry, use an artist's brush and a pencil eraser to make the signature cactus markings with white paint.

Fill your painted pot with sand about three-fourths of the way, nestle in the cactus rocks, and fill in with some unpainted pebbles.

Younger kids will naturally need more supervision with this project while older ones can really go to town with it and come up with their own designs. Perfection isn't the key; it's the time spent with your children. And when mishaps occur, it's just paint and you can start all over and try again.

Jill is a mom to two, a decorator, and Waco blogger at justplainjilly.com.

MODERN TEXAS LIVING | 27

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T E MP L E

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Sunday to Tuesday 10:30am to 9:30pm Wednesday to Thursday 10:30am to 10pm Friday to Saturday 10:30am to 11pm

Sunday to Tuesday 10:30am to 9pm Wednesday to Thursday 10:30am to 9:30pm Friday to Saturday 10:30am to 10pm

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www.CoronasDeOro.com 28 | moderntexasliving.com

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IN THE KITCHEN

perfect scoop

the

What if we told you there was a way to make ice cream without the dairy, without the sugar, without the heavy ice cream equipment, without all the additives, and it wouldn’t taste like cardboard? Would you believe it? We almost couldn’t either, until we tried it!

Strawberries N Crème Add 1/2 cup fresh or frozen strawberries to base.

ICE CREAM BASE 1 can full fat coconut milk 6 frozen bananas Place both ingredients in food processor or high speed blender and pulse until well combined. For different variations add other fruits at this point and pulse just a few times more. Serve immediately as a soft serve or place in freezer 30 minutes up to two hours for a scoop-able texture. *Do not place in freezer overnight, it will become too hard.

This is meant to be made and enjoyed right away!

Wild Berry

Vanilla Bean

Add 1/4 cup fresh or frozen blueberries and 1/4 cup fresh or frozen blackberries to base.

Slice one vanilla bean pod in half and scrap out seeds into base.

Add 1 tsp vanilla extract.

Cherry Garcia Add 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips and fresh or frozen dark sweet cherries to base.

TIP: Don’t throw those spotted bananas out!

Cut into large chunks and toss into a freezer storage bag. Always keep a bag in your freezer for an on demand healthy ice cream treat!

MODERN TEXAS LIVING | 31

IN THE KITCHEN

32 | moderntexasliving.com

HOST A

backyard barbecue

Sweet, sweet, summertime. From celebrating our Independence to Labor Day, occasions are plenty. However, it’s also the season that needs no reason but the sunshine and warm breezes to gather around a grill.

Whether you’re hanging out with family or hosting a large group, here are a few simple spins on the classics that are just as finger-licking good!

MODERN TEXAS LIVING | 33

IN THE KITCHEN

D O N ’ T STR E S S A B O U T AN E L A B O R ATE M E N U .

A F EW S P I N S O N T H E C L AS S I C S I D E S W I LL I M PR E S S YO U R GU E STS AN D LE AVE YO U E N J OY I NG T H E PARTY .

A palette of vibrant colored fruits and veggies will have your guests’ appetites ignited. Set out fresh appetizers and sides while you get the grill going. Don’t stress about an elaborate menu. A few spins on the classic sides will impress your guests and leave you enjoying the party. Go with an easy-to-prep the morning of: cold green bean salad with tangy Dijon dressing. Don’t spend all day chopping. Fill a tray with mostly whole veggies and whip up a thick and creamy buttermilk ranch. Mexican street corn is a superb way to dress up the old cob. Slathered with mayo, chili powder and cheese, it will leave guests saying, butter who? Jazz up your beverages with these cream pop wine coolers and watch your friends swoon. Fruit cones for the little ones are a fun way to sneak in some healthy foods and they make a beautiful presentation.

34 | moderntexasliving.com

MODERN TEXAS LIVING | 35

IN THE KITCHEN

get the look

A table that’s dressed to impress but also eludes casual vibes is as simple as an extra-long buffalo check tablecloth. Crockery that is the epitome of Southern sophistication will be the talk of your gathering. Add a little softness without going overboard on big fancy florals by incorporating ceramic planters filled with baby’s breath from the grocery store. Overall, keep it simple with a few statement pieces like dishes and textiles that pop.

WHITE STRIPED NAPKINS Threshold www.target.com

SERVING DISHES Brie Baker, Platter, and Bowl Crockery Rag Muffins Co. www.rag-muffins.com

BUFFALO CHECK TABLECLOTH Sew Many Linens www.etsy.com/shop/sewmanylinens 36 | moderntexasliving.com

CLOSED 120 TRANSACTIONS IN 2016.

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THE NYE FAMILY

“We were referred to Pam by friends who had recently sold their home. Pam was quick to respond, and she had a no nonsense, go getter attitude coupled with a marketing plan that made us feel comfortable with listing our home. By the end of that day, she had facts/comparables for our neighborhood and we received a full offer contract. We are now enjoying our new home thanks to Pam and her hard work!”

THE ANGELS

“Pam Tucker is an amazing realtor and such a pleasure to work with. From the sell of our home to the purchase of our new home she was with us all the way and stayed on top of any concerns. Pam is wonderful and we highly recommended her.”

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“We were incredibly impressed with Pam as our real estate agent. She obtained an above asking price offer on our house on the same day as listing it. Pam never left any questions unanswered and always responded promptly. She was attentive and patient with us as buyers also. Although it took some time, we were able to find a home that met all of our wish list. We can’t thank her enough.”

THE COONEY FAMILY

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IN THE KITCHEN

ONE BASE MANY WAYS

During summer months most of us would rather not heat up the kitchen with an oven or spend hours over a hot stove. We often envision the crock pot to be excellent for soups and stews but those are not ideal with 90 degree temps outside. Slow cooker shredded chicken and beef to the rescue!

Make your crock do all the HOT work for you and use these protein recipes as a base in your weekly rotation. Trade in different dishes to top with each week for some variety!

ITALIAN BEEF RAGU Add a jar of sauce to the recipe for a pasta variation!

ITALIAN BEEF SANDWICHES For a tangy kick add about 1/2 cup (or half of a 16 oz jar) pepperoncini brine.

Then top with mozzarella cheese slices over a toasted hoagie roll.

ITALIAN BEEF 2 lbs Beef Roast 1 Packet Italian Dressing Seasoning or 1 ½ tablespoons homemade 1 ½ cup Beef Broth

Place all ingredients in slow cooker on low for 8-10 hours or high for 5-6 hours. When you are ready to start dinner shred beef with a fork and allow to cook a little longer while you prepare the rest of your dish. Use on pasta, hoagie rolls, mashed potatoes, or rice. The options are endless!!

TO P MA S H E D P OTATO E S W IT H T H E ITA LI AN B E E F . NO G R AV Y N E E D E D W IT H T H I S D I S H ' S F L AVO R !

MODERN TEXAS LIVING | 39

IN THE KITCHEN

MEXICAN RANCH SHREDDED CHICKEN 4-5 Chicken Breast 1 Packet Taco Seasoning or Âź cup homemade 1 packet Ranch dressing seasoning or Âź cup homemade 1/2 cup chicken broth Place all ingredients in slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. When you are ready to start dinner shred chicken with a fork and allow to cook a little longer while you prepare the rest of your dish. Use in tacos, burritos, nachos, rice bowls, salad shells, enchiladas, or any Mexican dish. The options are endless!!

40 | moderntexasliving.com

RICE BOWL WITH CILANTRO LIME AVOCADO CR ME For the dressing combine with a whisk: ¼ cup plain yogurt, ¼ cup guacamole or ½ an avocado, 2 tablespoons lime juice, 1 tablespoon fresh or dried cilantro.

FOR A TWIST ON YOUR TRADITIONAL NACHOS, BAKE IN A CAST IRON SKILLET AT 350 DEGREES UNTIL CHEESE IS MELTED.

IN THE KITCHEN

Photo Source: Tracey Ayton IG @tracey_ayton 42 | moderntexasliving.com

NOT YOUR MOMMA’S

cobbler

Old Fashioned Peach Cobbler is the bee’s knees but it’s filled with refined sugar, eggs, tons of butter, and loads of shortening. Not exactly awesome for that summer waistline.

This recipe is not only low in fat and carbs, it’s also free of grains, refined sugar, cholesterol, and gluten. It’s even Paleo and Vegan friendly!

MODERN TEXAS LIVING | 43

IN THE KITCHEN

44 | moderntexasliving.com

Healthier Peach Cobbler PEACH FILLING: 3 Large Peaches 1 Tbs of Coconut Sugar 1 Tbs Coconut Flakes (unsweetened) 1/2 Tbs Lemon Zest 1/2 Arrowroot Powder 1/2 Tsp of Cinnamon

COBBLER TOPPING: 1/2 Cup Almond Flour 1/3 Cup Arrowroot Powder 1/4 Cup Coconut Oil (melted) 1/2 Cup Almond Milk (unsweetened) 1 Tsp Baking Powder 1 Tsp Cinnamon 1/2 Vanilla Extract 1/2 tsp Sea Salt

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Pit and slice your peaches. Lightly grease your pie dish with coconut oil. In a bowl, mix together all filling ingredients until well combined. Pour filling into pie dish. Using the same mixing bowl, stir together all of the cobbler ingredients. Add mixture to pie dish by placing large spoonfuls of batter over peaches.

Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. To ensure cobbler topping is done, insert toothpick until it comes out clean.

Garnish with extra cinnamon if you wish!

MODERN TEXAS LIVING | 45

Your dentures should be as care free as life.

A

SUPER FOODS

What they are and why you should be eating them every day

IN GOOD HEALTH

KALE

Now we know this one won’t come as a surprise to you, but let’s recap why. Kale is probably the most nutrient dense food you can find in terms of nutrients per caloric intake. Cooked kale offers more iron per ounce than beef and is far less in calories and contains no fat at all. Kale is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals. If you aren’t a fan of kale, there are a few things you can try, but you should really find a way of using it every day. Finely chopped, it can be incorporated into soups, casserole dishes, stir fry, and pasta without being noticed. If you love fruit smoothies, it’s a great addition. If the large leaves and process of stripping the stems is too much for you, behold, baby kale! Smaller than spinach leaves, softer, and no prep work at all, it makes the perfect nutrient rich salad base!

MUSHROOMS

Most people are familiar with the health benefits of mushrooms, including the promotion of bone health and nutrient absorption, a natural antibiotic, as well as being a high source of protein, iron, selenium, fiber, water, and powerful antioxidants that boost the immune system. However, most notably is the aid in diabetes prevention and management. They are an ideal low energy food for diabetics as they have no fats, no cholesterol, low carbohydrates, high protein, and are full of vitamins and minerals. They contain a natural enzymes that helps break down the sugar or starch in foods.

They also produce properties that aid in the functioning of the liver, pancreas, and other endocrine glands which, as a result, help to regulate insulin’s proper formation and regulation throughout the body. As it goes, you are either a lover or a hater of mushrooms; if you are a lover, great news! If you are a hater, you can increase your mushroom intake by pureeing them into pasta and pizza sauces, or finely mincing them into stews, chili, and soups. They will be almost undetectable even to the pickiest eater!

WALNUTS

Along with containing many other minerals and phytonutrients that provide cardiovascular benefits, walnuts are brain food! They contain a number of neuroprotective compounds such as a special form of vitamin E, antioxidants, folate, omega 3 fatty acids, and tryptophan which aids in melatonin production when needed. A study conducted showed walnut consumption may increase inferential reasoning in young adults. It was also found they improved memory, cognition, and motor function in test subjects. So make a big tub of trail mix with walnuts for your teens to snack on while they do their homework or keep some in your desk drawer for when that afternoon salty craving hits you like a ton of bricks.

SEEDS

Seeds, small but mighty. You wouldn’t think much of these little guys by their size, but they are actually quite nutritious. Flax, chia, hemp, sunflower, pumpkin, and sesame are great sources of omega 3s, antioxidants, protein, fiber, and bone health promoting compounds such as calcium, phosphorus, zinc, magnesium, and ALA. Flax, chia, and hemp are easy to incorporate into meals, sprinkle on salads, in a pasta sauce, or smoothies. While sunflower and pumpkin make a great snack on their own or in a trail mix.

AVOCADOS

You probably know that the avocado is trending right now, but do you know why nutritionist and health experts are obsessed with it, too? We could really write an entire article on why, but we’ll try to be brief and list all of the good things inside this green fruit. Avocados are filled with vitamins and minerals including more potassium than a banana, heart healthy mono-saturated fatty acids, 27% of your daily fiber needs, oleic acid which has been linked to reduced inflammation and cancer genes, lower bad cholesterol and increase the good, contains healthy fats that can actually increase 48 | moderntexasliving.com

your absorption of nutrients and antioxidants from other foods, and can even help with a hormonal imbalance. If you or someone you know has severe menstrual symptoms, we suggest incorporating 1-2 ounces of avocado consistently each day, at least 7 days prior to the start and all the way through until the end of the cycle. You should see an improvement in just 2-3 cycles.

GREEN TEAS

If longevity and quality of life are important to you, drinking green tea every day is one of the simplest ways you can achieve that. Along with being loaded with antioxidants, it is rich in polyphenols that have effects like reducing inflammation and helping to fight cancer.

It is great for the brain, containing the amino acid L-theanine which has anti-anxiety effects. It increases dopamine and the production of alpha waves in the brain. It has also been found that the catechin compounds in green tea can help protect your brain form long term neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

Many studies have shown that green tea selectively increases the burning of fat and boosts the metabolic rate as well. So as you can see, including this liquid gold into your diet as a world of health benefits on almost every aspect of the human body.

BLUEBERRIES

For such a small object, it’s quite incredible the nutritious punch these little guys give. Blueberries are jam packed with antioxidants and phytonutrients. Antioxidants act as free radical bounty hunters that prevent and repair damage, slowing the oxidative process. Both antioxidants and phytonutrients aid in preventing diseases. Experts say, if you make only one significant change to your diet it should be to include blueberries every day. Bring on the cobbler!!

OATMEAL

Naturally gluten free, full of protein and packed with fiber, oatmeal is by far the super hero of grains. In addition to these qualities oats contain some unique components – in particular, the soluble fiber beta-glucan and antioxidants. Study after study after study shows that increased fiber intake decreases the risk of colorectal cancer.

Adding this grain to your daily regimen can lower your blood sugar levels, reduce cholesterol, and fight cancer in your gut. It’s a no brainer!

SALMON

For most people an omega six to omega three ratio of 4:1 is ideal (that’s 4 mega six’s for every 1 omega three). However, many experts say for optimal health you can go further in maintaining a 1:1 ratio or higher in omega threes. Most Americans are not getting enough omega threes and more than enough omega sixes. Salmon has the highest level of omega three with the lowest level of omega six, making it the best ratio if you are trying to up your omega three intake. Along with protein and omega three fatty acids, it delivers a plethora of health benefits including: B vitamins, potassium, selenium, and antioxidants. Because of these components, it may actually counteract the cholesterol it contains helping to reduce the risk of heart disease as well.

LEGUMES

Beans often get a bad rap because when not eaten regularly they can be a bit unpleasant on the gut. The majority of Americans are not getting enough fiber and this is why. As well as being high in fiber, which is so important in our protection against disease and cancer, beans contain a wide range of cancer-fighting plant chemicals, specifically, isoflavones and phytosterols which are associated with reduced cancer risk. Studies have also shown that people who eat more legumes have a lower risk of heart disease. Instead of keeping beans benched as a side on Taco Tuesdays, bring these disease fighting guys into the game and make them the main protein in your meal a few times a week.

MODERN TEXAS LIVING | 49

IN GOOD HEALTH

50 | moderntexasliving.com

The Pressures of Being a Woman

By Julie Hays

B

eing a woman in this world is difficult.

Do you ever look at other people’s lives and compare them to your own?

Does this make you question whether you’re smart, fit, or happy enough?

I know I do.

The world is tough enough, but you add the title of woman and mom and expectations soar.

I learned this the hard way. I started life in the public eye as a naïve, fresh out of college female with a positive outlook on pretty much everything until I realized how cruel the world can be.

My days of broadcasting started long before social media. I remember old-fashioned mail coming to the station with letters from viewers, almost without exception females, who didn’t like my outfit that day.

My hair wasn’t fixed right. My makeup wasn’t perfect.

And that outfit. Did I get dressed in the dark?

Then came the targets of one of my greatest insecurities: my weight. I went through three pregnancies on air, hitting over 200 pounds 2 of the 3 times.

Imagine how I felt when someone would email the newsroom after a few weeks of bad eating and ask if I was “pregnant again.”

Maybe because in a way I had to, but somewhere along the way I learned to accept myself.

It was okay if I had a bad hair day.

It was okay if I gained weight.

It was okay if I was the mom who had to pack a lunchable because my refrigerator was bare.

My advice to women today is to find a hobby or passion that brings you joy and don’t compare yourself to others.

You are enough.

Tell yourself that.

And then, go tell a girlfriend, too.

You are enough Julie Hays is a wife, mother to three and an award winning journalist for KWTX-TV. She also is well known for helping with a number of non-profits, including the Boys & Girls Club, American HeartAssociation, American Cancer Society and Fuzzy Friends Animal Rescue.

Art by Linen & Cake. To view more of Theresa’s work, go to linenandcake.com

MODERN TEXAS LIVING | 51

Poet Colliver REALTOR ®,ABR,MRP, Bentwood Realty

YOUR HOMETOWN REALTOR

PoetSellsCentex.House 254.424.6561

PoetColliver

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www.calliesboutique.com /CalliesTemple

@calliesboutique

Also find us at The Hub Downtown Temple

Baby & Childrens Boutique 52 | moderntexasliving.com

Gifts for Women

sugar

A spoonful of

How sweeteners stack up from best to worst

MODERN TEXAS LIVING | 53

IN GOOD HEALTH

I

f you've browsed the baking aisle lately, you may have been overwhelmed by the amount of sugar and sweetener alternatives available. So how are we to know which one is best? We've gathered research from top physicians and nutritionists to compile this comparison so that the next time you have coconut sugar in one hand and raw cane sugar in the other you can make an educated decision.

1. STEVIA Nutritionists agree, if you’re going to use a sweetener, Stevia is the best option. Made from the stevia leaves, it doesn’t raise blood sugar levels the way actual sugar does. In moderation it can actually be beneficial because of its antiinflammatory properties.

2. HONEY Although high in calories and carbohydrates, honey contains anti-microbial and anti-bacterial compounds which are what makes it great in soothing a sore throat.

3. COCONUT SUGAR Sap from coconut trees is extracted and then placed in the heat to dry, making it less processed than refined sugar. It also contains trace amounts of minerals like magnesium and potassium. Its biggest downfall is that is causes advanced glycation end-products which gradually leads to a breakdown in collagen.

4. RAW CANE SUGAR Cane sugar is also less processed because it is extracted from the sugar cane plant. Because of this process it isn’t refined and keeps some of its nutrients. This ultimately means you consume less sugar and calories than with table sugar.

However, it comes last on our list because other than not being overly processed, it has the same composition as granulated sugar.

Refined or granulated sugar, brown sugar, agave nectar, aspartame, and splenda have more cons than anything at all and should be avoided as much as possible.

54 | moderntexasliving.com

It should be noted that these sweeteners are all still sugar delivery vessels which should be limited regardless of any added health benefits.

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REASONS TO FREQUENT

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by Amy Williams

Whether you are looking for a place to plan your next girls’ getaway, family trip or a romantic weekend for two, Fredericksburg is full of possibilities.

1. WINE Take a wine tour and swirl, sniff, sip the flavor of Texas from local wineries

2. WILDFLOWERS Enjoy Wild Seed Farm and scenic drives through the Hill Country

3. SHOPPING Over 150 shops, antique stores and art galleries on Main Street

4. DINING Over 100 eateries from Tex- Mex at Mamacita’s to German food favorites

5. MOTHER NATURE Hike Enchanted Rock, or camp at one of many neighboring state parks

6. ATTRACTIONS Peach orchards, pecan groves, and everything from peach cobbler to pecan pie

7. HISTORY Pioneer Museum, National Museum of the Pacific War, Fort Martin Scott

8. CULTURAL ARTS Festivals, live music, theatre, art walls, and a town favorite: Oktoberfest

9. TEXAS ROYALTY Visit the ‘Texas White House’ at the Lyndon B Johnson National Historical Park

10. SLEEP From rustic ranch cabins to romantic bed and breakfasts MODERN TEXAS LIVING | 57

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The League welcomes new provisional members annually. The community is also invited to show their support with a “Friend of the League” membership, or can contribute through ongoing endowment efforts.

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OF LIFE & STYLE

64 | moderntexasliving.com

Relax Restore Renew Create yourself a bath that would rival those of Cleopatra with this list of our favorite additions.

MODERN TEXAS LIVING | 65

OF LIFE & STYLE

Coconut Milk

Essential Oils Bathing with essential oils can relax the mind and body, promote circulation, smooth skin, ease muscle aches, diminish menstrual cramps, and relieve respiratory ailments.

If you’ve heard of milk baths before, this won’t be a surprise to you.

Milk leaves your skin feeling soft and supple. The added benefit of using coconut milk comes from the oil within it. It will combat dryness and promote healthy, glowing skin.

Baking Soda

Oatmeal This one is an oldie but a goodie. No wives’ tales here. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, “Itchy, dry skin often has a high PH level but oatmeal can help normalize your skin's pH, which can relieve itchy, uncomfortable skin.”

Baking soda soothes inflamed skin by reducing itching and irritation. If you have any of these symptoms, or eczema, you may want to consider adding it to your soak.

Epsom Salt Rose Petals (fresh or dried) Roses have been used in skin care and body detox since ancient times.

Roses have therapeutic benefits that relax the body, reduce stress and promote glowing skin. Rose petals contain natural oils and sugars that will lock moisture into dry skin cells.

66 | moderntexasliving.com

An Epsom salt bath is known to ease pain and relieve inflammation, making it beneficial in the treatment of sore muscles, bronchial asthma, and migraine headaches. If you are on your feet all day, have an illness, tension in your shoulders, or lots of stress, add Epsom to your soak tonight!

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68 | moderntexasliving.com

BLACK & WHITE

STAPLES

By Carrie Malone

I

n today’s world of juggling multiple activities a day, it is nice to have some basic staples on hand to dress up or down any outfit. Keeping basic, solid separates in your wardrobe lends itself easily for taking an outfit from day to evening – whether your day is “stay-at-home-mom” casual, office wear or ballgame attire.

10

Essential Staples Black Blazer White Button-up Shirt Black Pants Black Pencil Skirt V-Neck White & Black Cami White & Black V-Neck Tees Boyfriend Blazer White Jeans White Jean Skirt White & Black Shorts

What’s Taina wearing?

• black short sleeve top w/ ruffle sleeves – Courtney’s Boutique • white shorts – Gianni Bini – Dillard’s • nude cross-body – Courtney’s Boutique • grey slides w/ bows – Courtney’s Boutique • silver drop-circle necklace/ earrings – Sage Hill Market (Salado) Photograph by Alex Wolf Photography

Taina Maya is the Morning News Co-Anchor at KWTX News Ten in Waco, Texas.

Follow Taina @TXNewsLady.

Carrie Malone is the owner of Style Around Town. She's known around Central Texas as one of the top personal sylists who helps with wardrobe coordinating and closet clean-outs.

Check her out on Instagram @Instylearound or www.instaylearoundtown.com MODERN TEXAS LIVING | 69

OF LIFE & STYLE

SHAKE UP YOUR STYLE

by Magen Reaves

WITH 2 SIMPLE HAIR DOS

A

s a wife, mom of four, entrepreneur, blogger and much more, washing my hair every day is just not going to happen! If I’m not accessorizing with a big hat or hair scarf, I am rocking a high pony or a low braid.

in what looks like a low pony tail. From there wrap another rubber band about 2 inches down (could vary depending on hair length). Here is where the “flip n twist” comes in. With the little section in between both bands, you will create a “hole” by separating that section in the middle. Remember the topsy tail? If so, SKY HIGH PONY that's the same thing you're doing to your This high pony is super simple! Start “IT' S TE XAS , hair in smaller sections. Take your hair that by flipping over your head and pulling all is not in the rubber bands and flip it inward of your hair to the top of your head. Use WE LI K E through the hole you created. This is what the thick elastic bands to ensure your hair creates the twist and makes your hair doesn't move. Take a brush and tease it.

B I G HA I R .” look braided. Pull on your hair to tighten It's Texas, we like big hair. Curl the hair in the twist section. If you want the messy the pony tail with a curling iron to give it a look, pull on the outside edges. Continue to do this same more finished look. technique all the way down each pony tail. Leave about 2-4 inches at the end. To wrap up your new do, use hairspray and FLIP & TWIST texture spray.

Part your hair down the middle, creating two large Make your look complete by topping it off with a big hat! sections. Then take a small elastic band and put each side

Magen is a Texas wife, mom and fashion blogger. To see more of her amazing work follow her on Instagram @magenreaves or visit her website www.magenreaves.com.

MODERN TEXAS LIVING | 71

in sales each day transaction sides last year

amanda.cunningham@coldwellbanker.com

OF LIFE & STYLE

74 | moderntexasliving.com

Kids’ Memory Books Brooke Hanson

W

ith a new school year around the corner, this is a great organizational system for your children’s work that puts the fun in functional. By creating a binder for each child, you will have a place for everything meaningful throughout each year!

Begin by diving in and separating by school year, preschool through senior year. It’s never too late to start, so don’t worry if your child is already in grade school.

SUPPLIES: • Dividers • Clear Pocket Folders • Sets of Sheet Protectors

STEPS: • Label the dividers by grade level.

• Utilize the clear pocket folders to hold small items; ribbons, sentimental notes, or cards received that year, etc.

• Last but not least, the sheet protectors will be used to hold artwork, awards, school and sports photos, and special papers, etc.

MODERN TEXAS LIVING | 75

OF LIFE & STYLE

3 WAYS to Take Better Photos Michele Graves

Help! How do I use this thing? Digital cameras are so affordable that we purchase that DSLR with a zoom lens and expect our photos of our kids to turn out like they are from the cover of a sports magazine. Then we see our photos.

Questions go through our mind – I was ripped off! What’s wrong with this thing? Is this lens broken? Why are my pictures so dark? Why is everything blurry?

With some simple changes in your camera’s settings, you can get better pictures of the t-ball power play, the soccer block, or the softball dramatic catch in outfield.

1

Turn the dial from auto to manual. The camera thinks for you in auto mode, but it doesn’t know as much about the conditions of the shot as you do.

We did everything right – we held the camera sideways, we zoomed, we un-zoomed – we did it all, so why don’t our pictures look like the pros? There are some simple solutions to leave out some of these common problems. Get ready to step out of your comfort zone – that’s right, you’re going to have to change some settings on that bad boy. You’re going to have to go into uncharted territory – you’re going to take it off AUTO! Gasp! I know, I know. . . it’s scary, but I promise, you’re going to thank me.

2

Make sure your shutter speed is at 1/250 for high paced action. If you want that moment frozen in time, change that shutter speed.

3

Change your ISO. Think of it this way, if it’s darker outside, you need a higher number. It’s telling the camera to let in more light.

76 | moderntexasliving.com

Just three simple steps can help you take better photos of your kids. Enjoy, and happy clicking.

Update

In our last issue Christina shared her family’s incredible story of faith as they experienced repeated loss, how they were led to adoption, and the surprising way they were blessed with their fifth child.

Fitzgerald Thomas 5 pounds 8 ounces 19 inches March 1, 2018

So we know that at the time not many of your friends or family knew the bundle you were carrying was through embryo adoption. How did they take the news?

“They were quite surprised and honestly did not believe us at first. It took a lot of convincing, but once they realized we weren’t joking, everyone just thought how cool!”

Would you recommend this for other couples that are struggling with infertility?

“Absolutely, even the tiniest lives are priceless. I cannot

express how much being able to carry a baby inside one last time means to me. To hear his heartbeat, to feel his little kicks, to welcome him into this world, it has been an amazing experience.”

Do you plan on having any more?

“As far as pregnancies go, I think the door has closed.

However, if we can financially handle another adoption like our Gracie girl, that is something we are open to. We’ll just have to see what the Lord has in store.”

MODERN TEXAS LIVING | 77

FROM THE HEART

Jessica' sStory

by Jessica Lundin

78 | moderntexasliving.com

I

was 20 years old. Technically homeless, jobless, and spiraling out of control. I had a boyfriend who I had only known for one month. I visited him for my birthday and did not expect things to last much longer. Little did I know that ‘one weekend in San Diego’ would lead to, six years later, a marriage and three children. To be honest, my story is much more complicated than that. My story is open adoption. My situation was no different than thousands of other women suddenly enveloped in a ‘crisis pregnancy;’ however, my story is unique for a few reasons. I placed my son for adoption, married the birth father, and now have two more children who are full blood relatives of my first son. CRAZY. This was never my plan; I never imagined myself as ‘that girl’ that got pregnant, and I feel like my story will resonate with many because, when does life ever go as planned?

I wanted to marry young, raise a family with one man, see my children grow into successful adults, and then become a grandparent myself. But here I found myself, pregnant by a boy I barely knew with no clear future ahead of me. I had so many questions, but first I had to tell my parents. I may have been 20, but the pregnancy news showed me that I was unprepared for what lie ahead.

I was barely raising myself, how could I raise a baby? These were thoughts I wrestled with daily. I knew that if I kept the baby, neither of our lives would be good.

At thirteen weeks, I told my parents. I told my dad first because he is the easiest to talk to. My mom cried. Even though I’m sure this was not the news they wanted to hear, they were always loving and supportive. Telling someone took some of the weight off my shoulders. I had already gone to the adoption agency when I told my parents. While I’m not typically a planner, I wanted to be educated and informed when making this decision. I wanted my parents to take me seriously and I wanted to be informed about the process.

The adoptive parents actually knew before my own parents or the father. At the time I had made many bad decisions, and I didn’t want this to be one of them. I did not trust my own decision-making, so I asked my dad to help me choose the adoptive parents. I made a list of exactly what I wanted in an adoptive couple, then I narrowed it down to five couples.

I sent the prospective list to my dad and asked him to rank them 1-5. I already knew which couple I wanted, and when my dad chose the same couple, I knew they were the ones

who would raise my child. When I met the adoptive mom, I felt like I had known her all my life. The last month of my pregnancy she told me, “If you don’t want to do this, don’t do it.” She wanted not only happiness for my child, but for me. I had found a new family in the process of giving up my own child.

Let’s talk about my pregnancy. In some ways it made me a better person. I held down a job, enrolled in beauty school, and felt like I was working towards a clearly defined goal. To my surprise (and honestly to his surprise), my boyfriend stuck around. Initially, he felt like it was his duty to stay, although with time, we grew as a couple. Honestly, our relationship was a mess. Those nine months accelerated our maturation process from idiocy to responsibility. It was a wakeup call for both of us individually and as a couple. As rocky as it was, we made it to what we thought was the end of the process: labor, birth, 48 hours in the hospital, and days later… placement. That’s right, I said 48 hours. That is how long our son was ours. I felt the time moving and feared how quickly time was passing. I felt a strange but strong love that I did not expect to feel. He was my son and I knew I was going to place him into the arms of his parents very soon. I hated the feeling of unpreparedness and kept telling him how sorry I was that I could not be ready for him. This may seem difficult to understand. It is easy to question. ‘If I wanted him that badly, why didn’t I decide then and there to raise him?’ Believe me, I thought about it countless times; my answer is simple. I could not, and I should not. If my son ever asks why, I will tell him that I was a different person. I was surviving day by day and I didn’t want that for him.

Today, many people ask why I chose adoption, and seem surprised when I have only positive things to say about open adoption. The truth is, I picked adoption because I was scared. I wanted a way out from my situation, and as a naive 20-year-old I thought that everything would return to ‘normal’ when it was over. What surprised me was that my definition of normal changed every step of my adoption process; and it still changes today. My parents, counselors, and friends made me realize that I truly had three options: abortion, parenting, and placement. Every single day of my pregnancy I would weigh the consequences of all three options and began to realize that there was no ‘easy way out.’ Each option brought MODERN TEXAS LIVING | 79

FROM THE HEART

Enduring the rain brought the rainbow. My children are unique struggles and consequences that only I would have happy, we all love each other, and we are all growing in to live with forever. Adoption was always my choice. My this process. We see our birth son about twice a year. Not parents made it clear to me that I could not raise a child. because of legal constraints, but because of the physical I was ‘technically homeless and jobless.’ I wanted this distance between us. He knows us as his birth parents. stranger in my stomach to have a chance at life. I didn’t He knows his birth story. He knows that he has full blood pick adoption; I picked life. If you are reading my story siblings. They love each other like siblings, fight with each and are in a similar situation, please know that you have other like siblings, and miss each other like siblings. choices and don’t write off adoption. With faith, trust, and This is all due to the graciousness of his parents. We hard work on both ends, placement can be incredible. don’t feel we owe them anything, and they feel the same.

Recall the mess I mentioned earlier? Turns out that Our relationship only exists because of a mutual love we phase of our relationship was also just that, a phase. We all feel for our little boy. Much to our initial surprise, our grew in love and slowly found it impossible to be without time spent together is not tense, awkward, or forced. I am each other. Let me be clear, we stayed together because grateful for the chance that his parents gave my husband we fell in love, not because we had come too far to turn and me. They understood that the long-term stability of around. Our sole motive for marriage was love. It was their son’s life was directly tied to the stability of our lives. a long, and at times, painful journey, yet we endured They wanted him to know us and for because we did not want anyone us to know him. They didn’t do us a else. At that point, my then fiancé ‘favor’ by accepting our son, and we finished college and commissioned as "I SIMPLE CHOSE never felt forced to place him. We felt an officer in the United States Marine TO GIVE MY BIRTH that they cared as much about us as Corps. We moved across the country they did about getting a baby. So many and, as surprising as the first time, SON A CHANCE people ask me, ‘If you knew then what I became pregnant. WHAT? If I was AT LIFE. I HAVE you know now, would you still place unprepared for pregnancy at 20, I was your first son?’ The answer is, ‘I don’t very unprepared for pregnancy at 23.

BEEN HUMBLED, know.’ In my opinion, we are where This time I had a husband, a home, HEARTBROKEN, we are now because of the journey we and we had a steady income. The traveled. We grew and changed and unpreparedness I am talking about AND HAVE learned through a million mistakes, now was emotional.

EXPERIENCED SO but we made it. I don’t think it is fair Since placement, I suppressed to think that I wouldn’t have placed if my emotions. A whirlwind of feelings MUCH JOY." I knew I was going to get married and surfaced when I found out the gender have a stable life. I believe that without was a boy, and that both my kids had our birth son, I would not have married the same biological father. I felt angry my husband because we would not have matured as with God because it seemed like an unfair repeat of three individuals and as a couple. In fact, our relationship would years earlier, only this time I was in a position to raise my have ended with ‘that trip to San Diego’ that started son. My husband felt the same. He began to feel like this journey. we had betrayed our birth son by taking what he should I have been told many times that I did a wonderful have had and giving it to this new boy. I struggled with thing. I don’t feel that I did anything substantial. I simply postpartum depression with my son. To the world, I tried chose to give my birth son a chance at life. I have been to look picture perfect. I wanted to be the poster birth humbled, heartbroken, and have experienced so much mom of adoption to show that it is a good option. Know joy. I chose to make this work, and continue to choose this: It is a good option, but a hard choice. that every day. I look for the good as often as I can and Getting pregnant with my son brought out my deepest accept that this story will never be ‘perfect.’ I feel now that emotions and allowed me to initiate the healing process the good in my story will help someone else with theirs. I I didn’t know I needed. I thought I was ‘healed’ and then don’t want you to live my story; I want you to know there got pregnant again with my daughter. This pregnancy is hope. If you are in this situation, I want you to know was easier than my second, but I had the epiphany that that you have options and that you can make beauty from I will always struggle with this. It is the consequence of the ashes. The quicker you can get support and help, my choice, and with any of those three choices, there the better. would be consequences. Today, I am okay with that truth.

80 | moderntexasliving.com

Photographs by Megan Lawson of Anchor + Pine photography @anchor_and_pine

MODERN TEXAS LIVING | 81

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