Flower Mound Town Life Magazine August 2020

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020

YOUR

STAYCATION

EXPERTS www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID LEWISVILLE, TX PERMIT NO. 977

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

AUGUST 2020 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE | 3

4 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE

| AUGUST 2020

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

TABLE OF Contents ASK THE EXPERTS 17 Organizing with Cloud Nine Organizing 32 Travel with Terri Guthrie 39 Edit This with Steve Gamel BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS 18 Protecting The Integrity of Your Natural Lash with The Lash Lounge 23 Resiliency and Your Mental Health Journey with Connections Wellness Group 37 Changing People’s Lives Through Weight Loss with Innovative Lasers of Houston 38 When You Need to Know The Truth with Yellow Rose Investigations 45 A Luxury Experience with Sandi Hammons Studios FLOWER MOUND PHOTO PAGES

20 Resident Photos 30 Resident Photos Continued 47 Resident Photos Continued 43 Resident Photos Continued 56 Resident Photos Continued 57 Resident Photos Continued ARTICLES

10 Close Encounter of The Salamander 12 Inside Community and Education 14 Labor Day Weekend Getaways 16 Sports Have Started Again at Least For Some 19 The River Walk It’s Almost There!

21 WaterWorks 24 Young Entrepreneurs 26 Lewisville ISD Prepares For 2020-2021 School Year 31 Jalapeno Tater Tot Casserole 33 Community Corner 34 Baby Proofing Simplified 40 Be-YOU-tiful Inside and Out 42 Start Your Rubber Duckie It’s Duck Season!

44 Sheriff’s Corner with Sheriff Tracy Murphree 46 The Classic Margarita 48 Stressful Times Call For Positive Reinforcement 50 If You Can Dream It He Can Make It 52 What is The Excitement Over Lakeside Village 54 Productivity Tips

58 Glitter: How to Incorporate This Year’s Leading Makeup Trend 08 How to Pick After-School Care www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

PAGE

28 YOUR

STAYCATION

EXPERTS Cover Image Chris Bowen

of Bowen Pools

Publisher of Murray Media Group, kelly@murray-media.com

Publisher & Editor Scott & Kelly Murray

Administration

Managing Editor Jana Melton Sub-Editors

Bobbi Byrne

Together We Are In This

T

Alisha Tran

Writers & Editor Steve Gamel Brooke Ezzo

Diane Ciarloni

Advertising Inquiries

he back-to-school madness looked different this year.

No long lines in the school supply aisles, and we weren’t in a rush to run out and purchase the latest trends in school fashion.

sales@murray-media.com

By now, we all know that Lewisville ISD will be delaying inperson instruction until September 8. I know our district has had their hands tied waiting on instruction from state and federal entities, and we are thankful for their transparency.

Alyson Modene

For some, this decision comes as another blow because many want some kind of normalcy back in their lives or households having two full-time working parents. We understand that. Scott and I are full-time small business owners, and we will have to make some schedule changes ensuring our children are staying on top of their virtual check-ins and daily assignments.

There are many questions to be answered, and I do not envy LISD staff and everyone else who is involved in making these tough decisions. As we continue to take it all one day at a time, I encourage you to remember we are all in this together. If you have a question or have advice for families in the district, reach out to us. We’d love to hear from you.

In this issue, we are celebrating Women in Business. It is a perfect time to remind parents — looking to you Moms — that you are doing a great job. Many of the women in this issue spoke of being true to yourself and having strong allies in your corner. They spoke on balancing work and home life, how it comes with ups and downs, but to focus on the positive and find ways to do the things that make you happy.

Happiness makes the world go round!

Production

Graphic Designers Caroline Brock

Cayla Thompson

Photography

Nick Allen Photography

Your Candid Memories Photography

What’s That Guy’s Name? Guy T Photography

Letters

Flower Mound Town Life invites reader feedback, story suggestions and general comments.

Email artwork@murray-media.com.

All submissions become the sole property of Murray Media Group.

Editorial Inquiries Call 972.899.3637 or email editor@murray-media.com www.Murray-Media.com Address: 3513 Yucca Dr., Ste. 200 Flower Mound, TX 75028 Flower Mound Town Life is published monthly by Murray Media Group. Some articles and/or content may be sponsored by advertisers. Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher. Flower Mound Town Life is not responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine. Advertisers and its agencies assume all liability for advertising content. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted without the permission in writing from the publisher. © 2020 Murray Media Group

We hope you enjoy this issue, and we wish you and your family the best of luck as we start the new school year.

Sincerely, Kelly Murray 6 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE

| AUGUST 2020

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

AUGUST 2020 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE | 7

O T W

HO

K C I P

O H

C S R

E T F A

L O

E R

A C by

el

m Ga e v Ste

T

he dog days of summer are drawing to a close, which means back-to-school prep is right around the corner. But outside of the typical stuff like buying supplies, showing up for teacher orientations, scheduling sports physicals, and sifting through the latest fashion trends, most parents have one more key item on their to-do list: figuring out after-school care.

Just because school ends at 3 p.m. for the kiddos doesn’t mean our work schedules do. For many of us, we’ve still got another

two or three hours left on the clock, and when you factor in the occasional early dismissal, teacher in-service day, etc., that can

create a stressful balancing act for any parent. It would really help

out if we had somewhere safe for the kids to go, and luckily, that’s

IT WOULD REALLY HELP OUT IF WE HAD SOMEWHERE SAFE FOR THE KIDS TO GO...

8 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE

| AUGUST 2020

where after-school care comes into play.

Below are a few tips on how to pick after-school care that fits you and your child’s needs:

SEE IF YOUR KIDS’ SCHOOL OFFERS ANY PROGRAMS Before you start looking to the myriad of childcare options

throughout Denton County, keep in mind that many school

districts have after-school programs with staff available as late as

6 p.m. The benefit is that your child doesn’t need to be bussed to www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

ASK THE RIGHT QUESTIONS If you are forced to look outside your kids’ school, write down a list of your top questions ahead of time as you call facilities.

Here are a few to get you started: 1. Who is watching my child and what type of training do they have?

2. What schools do you service?

3. What activities do you offer and will my child have time to do homework?

4. How do you ensure all children are getting along?

5. How long have you been in business?

6. What are your hours? another location and will be surrounded by the same people and classmates they see in the halls each day.

CHECK WITH YOUR SCHOOL FOR A PREFERRED-PROVIDER LIST Many times, your school’s administration will have a preferred-provider list for after-school care.

Even if they don’t, simply asking someone in the front office may yield a few decent options. This will at least give you a short list to work from while also

providing peace of mind that these

outside facilities have been referred.

LOOK TO COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS Safe and healthy after-school care

can normally be found at community

organizations such as the YMCA, Boys &

Girls Clubs, churches, and more. Many of these

programs are perfect for families who need more

affordable options and require flexibility for those situations where there is early dismissal, snow days, etc. www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

7. Does the facility cater to kids with special needs?

A major concern for parents of children with special needs is whether or not the after-school program is set up to handle children with special needs or learning disabilities that likely require individualized care and 1-on-1 instruction.

THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX The tips above should definitely help you find an after-school program that can meet you and your child’s needs. But if you don’t feel comfortable, a few additional options include hiring an after-school nanny with experience in education or finding a family member or friend who can pick your children up after school – especially if it’s a friend whose kid goes to the same school or is in the same class as your child.

At the end of the day, we as parents want nothing but the best for our children.

Selecting the right after-school program is another piece to that puzzle, and it takes careful consideration. Rather than wait until school starts, now is the time to start researching your options.

AUGUST 2020 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE | 9

CLOSE

ENCOUNTER

Of The Salamander Kind

by Jean Eisenmann | photo courtesy of Jean Eisenmann

L

ast week my husband and I had a taste of Texas. It wasn’t a culinary event, but a face-to- face encounter with a Central Texas Salamander. Not the vivid green gecko with big brown eyes and endearing British accent, but the slimy, flesh-colored creature that looks like a large gummy worm. My new candy-of-choice is Skittles.

One night we fell asleep early and I

Salamanders are nocturnal, so I felt comfortable using my office in the been exposed to the same incident. daytime. For a week, when darkness In warm months salamanders are fell I closed off the room and stuffed everywhere, lurking around windows a bath towel under the door to keep it and garage doors, waiting for the from touring the house, using our chance to become home dwellers. bathrooms and raiding the refrigerator.

We like to call them geckos because it That became routine, as well as my sounds cute, and again, it relates to the daytime habit of darting my head all insurance spokes-critter. In truth, around the room to ensure I was working the two are very different: Geckos in a salamander-free are lizards and zone. Van was kind Geckos are lizards salamanders are enough to point out that and salamanders amphibians.

I had adopted the very are amphibians.

That concludes my head-darting mannerism That concludes my lesson for today. of my nemesis! I think Pop quiz next lesson for today. that triggered something issue. One evening Pop quiz next issue. (besides a headache), I walked into my for my repulsion turned home office, turned on the light, and there to compassion for the beast. Sort of. He on the wall, up-close-and-personal, was might even have squatter’s rights by now. a salamander. I judged it to be about 4 ft.

Then I named him...wait for it...SAL. Not long, a veritable king of salamanders. But too many creative juices needed to flow Van, my husband, said it was more like 3 for that one. There are subtle ways to inches long and perhaps just on the king’s distinguish males from females, but I’ll let royal court. you look that up yourself.

that he must have used the guest

If you live in Texas, odds are you’ve

10 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE

| AUGUST 2020

neglected to cordon off my office.

I awoke at 3 a.m., stumbled to the

kitchen and there was Sal, on a wall

off the kitchen. My first thought was bathroom and raided the refrigerator.

My next thought was that he needs to return to the great outdoors!

Van was in REM stage of sleep and

didn’t even move when I nudged him.

You’ve heard of stories where a human

being lifts an automobile off the ground

to save their child’s life? I moved a 170-lb. king mattress off the bed with him in it. If you ever need a bouncer....

Trap in hand (plastic cup), the great white (haired) hunter faced his prey. At least he

managed to put on undershorts first. Van, not Sal. I’ll never forget his big black eyes looking at me as the cup went down. Sal, not Van.

As my hunter gently eased Sal onto the

grass in our front yard, he caught site of our two female neighbors enjoying the show. I’m glad he had the cup.

I recently read that Central Texas

salamanders could be faced with extinction. Take care, Sal.

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

AUGUST 2020 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE | 11

INSIDE COMMUNITY

BOARD + BRIE VIRTUAL CLASSES NORTH TEXAS FAIR AND RODEO October 16-24 | Fair Grounds 2217 N. Carroll Blvd. • Denton, TX 76201 Due to the rising COVID-19 cases the 2020 North Texas Fair and Rodeo has been postponed to October in hopes that the pandemic will be slowing down by then.

The fair hopes to still include the rodeos, live music, livestock shows, carnival, and attractions. For updates, visit their website www.NTfair.com.

INSIDE EDUCATION

With people still practicing social distancing, Lane Tunstall, owner of Board + Brie has taken her charcuterie board classes online. Get some friends together for a virtually pleasing experience as Lane teaches you how to pick and pair foods to create a visually pleasing and delicious charcuterie board. For her virtual class dates visit, www.boardbrie.com/classes. photo courtesy of Lane Tunstall

WELLINGTON STUDENT BRYCE WOOLRIDGE

STAAR TESTING Governor Greg Abbott said in a press conference on July 27 that the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness, also known as STAAR, test requirement for grade promotion for students in 5 and 8 grade has been waived for this upcoming school year.

Gov. Abbott hopes this waiver will provide greater flexibility for students and teachers.

12 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE

| AUGUST2020

Bryce was in a golf cart accident and has some head trauma. The community has come together to try and cover the costs of the ICU and as many medical expenses as possible to relieve any stress on the Woolridge family. If you would like to donate please visit www.

GoFundMe.com and in the search bar type Bryce Woolridge.

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

FLOWER MOUND PUBLIC LIBRARY Due to safety concerns related to COVID, as well as lack of storage space because of construction, the Flower Mound Public Library is asking that the community consider alternative donation destinations.

Recycle 2 Support at 900 Lakeside Parkway and The Salvation Army at 602 E. Round Grove Road in Lewisville. They also encourage residents to help fill up Little Free Libraries in the area with kid’s books.

CRAFTY HANDS WORKSHOP With a love for wood-working and a love for serving food, Denton County resident Ryan McDonald put the two together and has started making incredible, high-quality cutting boards, serving boards, and coasters. These boards make great gifts, home décor items, and conversation pieces. Follow him on Facebooks at Crafty Hands Workshop for prices and board sizes. It’s never too early to start thinking about Christmas! photo courtesy of Ryan McDonald

STEMPUMP STEMpump is a student-led initiative started by a group of high schoolers that strives to offer high-quality STEM education at no cost. The group recently launched an online platform to support students during this change in school instruction due to the virus.

For more information, visit www.stempump.com. photo courtesy of Raashi Mohan

THE HIGHART FOUNDATION Local resident and opera singer, NaGuanda Nobles has always dreamed of creating a foundation that awards scholarships to talented and deserving high school students to use toward a musical career. That dream came true with the formulation of The HighArt Foundation. For information about the foundation, visit www.NaGuandaNobles.com. photo courtesy of NaGuanda Nobles

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

AUGUST 2020 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE | 13

Labor Day WEEKEND G E T A W A Y S

by Kelly Murray

D

o you long for a life less ordinary? Take a chance this Labor Day weekend and buckle up for a wild family trip. Below are some great quick getaways you and your family will enjoy.

Arbuckle Wilderness Safari

for all ages. You’ll also enjoy the great fun park with a walk-thru zoological area. At the Safari store, you’ll find all kinds of gifts like t-shirts, hats, stuffed animals and much more!

This long trip to the past is just a short drive from Fort Worth.

Stay at one of our regular or backpack campsites. Explore 20 miles of trails. Shop our park store for souvenirs, camping and fishing supplies, books and much more.

North Texas Jellystone Park

Dinosaur Valley State Park - Texas Parks and Wildlife

6132 Kay Starr Trail Davis, OK 73030 580.369.3383 arbucklewildernesspark.com More than 200 acres in the beautiful Arbuckle Mountains with hundreds of exotic animals roaming free! Also House of Reptiles Petting Zoo and more!

Arbuckle Wilderness Park is a fun-filled adventure land where wonderful and diverse creatures from over five continents roam in similar habitats to their own. Open year-round and set in the beautiful and historic Arbuckle Mountains, Arbuckle Wilderness Park is an exciting adventure

14 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE

| AUGUST 2020

1629 Park Rd. 59 Glen Rose, TX 76043 Mon - Sun: 7am - 10pm 254.897.4588 tpwd.texas.gov Long ago, dinosaurs left footprints in the mud at the edge of an ancient ocean.

Today, you can walk in their tracks in the bed of the Paluxy River.

2301 S Burleson Blvd.

Burleson, TX 76028 Sun - Thurs: 8am - 8pm Fri - Sat: 8am - 9pm 817.426.5037 northtexasjellystone.com Welcome! Get ready for a great family camping adventure. From the minute you enter North Texas Jellystone Park™, you’ll see why our resort features and accommodations have won awards.

Whether you choose to sleep out under the stars, claim an RV site, or

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

ion cat a V

Roa Trip d !

Fam ily

snuggle up in a cozy, comfortable

cabin, we offer accommodations for every type of camper with the best amenities possible.

Memories

to name a few! Contact our office for details and scheduling.

LLELA Lewisville Lake

Traders Village - Grand Prairie

Lewisville, TX 75057

201 E Jones St. 972.219.7980

Sharkarosa Wildlife Ranch

Mon - Sun: 7:00am - 7:00pm llela.org

11670 Massey Rd.

Pilot Point , TX 76258 940.686.4600

Mon - Fri: Closed

Sat - Sun: 10am - 5pm sharkarosa.com

Travel the world with the animals of

Sharkarosa. Schedule a private tour

with us today and take your family on

an adventure that includes the animals of Madagascar, Africa, Asia, North and South America, China, and Australia

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

2602 Mayfield Rd. Grand Prairie, TX 75052 Mon -Fri: Closed Sat - Sun: 9am - 5pm tradersvillage.com Known nationally as America’s largest weekend flea marketplace, the original Traders Village opened in Grand Prairie in 1973. Houston’s Traders Village followed in 1989 bringing terrific values and entertainment to the Texas Gulf Coast and San Antonio is now a happy home to Traders Village opened in 2011!

Today the combined markets host more than 6,000,000 shoppers and festivalgoers each year.

Tucked into the folds of the soft rolling hills of north-central Texas, situated beneath the Lewisville Dam, the Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area (LLELA) occupies a unique ecological position in the landscape of North America.

It is here where the northwestern-most extent of the bottomland forests stretch fingers into the southern end of the tallgrass prairie of the Midwest; where the Elm Fork of the Trinity River winds its way out of the sandy uplands of the dry Cross Timbers into the deep, rich soils of the Blackland prairies; where agricultural lands intergrade with ranching and a rapidly growing urban expanse.

AUGUST 2020 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE | 15

SPORTS HAVE STARTED

AGAIN

At Least For Some

by Steve Gamel | photo courtesy of UIL

T

he fall sports season has started. Well, at least for some. The University Interscholastic League announced a tiered 2020-2021 athletic calendar on July 21 that would allow some schools to start fall practices on-time on Aug. 3 while delaying others until Sept. 7.

As part of the plan, Class 1A-4A fall sports programs like Argyle started volleyball games Aug. 10. Cross Country and team tennis started on the 17th. The Eagles’ football team plays its season opener on the 27th. Meanwhile, Class 5A and 6A schools can’t start practicing until Sept. 7, with games starting in the weeks after. This new start date for the UIL’s two highest classifications is roughly five weeks later than normal and is in direct response to COVID-19 concerns. For Murray Media’s coverage area, the 5A/6A schools affected are Guyer, Lake Dallas, Marcus, Flower Mound, Hebron, The Colony, and Justin Northwest. provide a path forward for Texas students and schools,” UIL Executive Director Charles Breithaupt said in a press release. “While understanding situations change and there will likely be interruptions that will require flexibility and patience, we are hopeful this plan 16 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE

| AUGUST 2020

school and every school district around the state.” Webb was spot-on. The new plan changes the entire makeup of the

allows students to participate in the

typical athletic calendar. Not only have

way that prioritizes safety and mitigates

schedules to fit the new plan, but playoffs

education-based activities they love in a

teams been forced to alter their game

risk of COVID-19 spread.”

and state championship games also have

There haven’t been any games at the

high school level since the UIL suspended practices and games in mid-March as concerns over the coronavirus were

running rampant. The UIL allowed schools to begin strength and conditioning and sports-specific training in early June,

but questions continued to linger over whether or not athletics would resume in the fall. That all changed with the

latest announcement, though the UIL made it very clear that this is a fluid

“Our goal in releasing this plan is to

be impossible to make it ideal for every

significant date changes.

The state title games for 1A-4A in volleyball and football remain Nov. 18-21 and Dec. 18-19, respectively. But the larger school playoffs begin in early December for football — as opposed to November. The title games will be in January. Meanwhile, the volleyball state tournament for 5A and 6A schools will be Dec. 11-12 rather than before Thanksgiving.

process and that plenty can change

As you attend games, you may notice

coronavirus cases.

also to limit spectators to a 50% maximum

if there is another spike in confirmed “At some point in time, we’ve got to

set dates, and we’ve got to say, ‘These are the dates. We’re playing,’” Guyer

football coach Rodney Webb told the

Dallas Morning News. “It was going to

fewer spectators. Part of the UIL’s plan was capacity for each stadium or gym to allow for social distancing to continue. Everyone must wear face masks.

A calendar provided by the UIL is included with this article. www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

DECLUTTER Your Business

T

here is a counterproductive and profit-draining habit that keeps many business professionals from achieving their fullest potential. This is the habit of tolerating clutter in their business. Clutter stifles creativity, energy, effective decision-making, and growth.

Want to level-up? Then start

More importantly, give yourself

organizer and business owner, I have

projects that you know are never going

decluttering! As a professional

figured out how to open up new

possibilities, and increase productivity and profitability through decluttering.

Declutter your physical workspace.

Start with the obvious; the physical

permission to let go of unfinished

to be completed. Not completing a

project that no longer matches your goals and values is NOT a failure. It

means you have a good understanding of your business and your clients.

clutter you can see and touch. Respect

Declutter information overload.

enough to have a clutter-free workspace.

(and exhausting) keeping up with all the

yourself, your business, and your clients

Clear off your desk, clean out your filing cabinets, throw away broken furniture,

and cull through the excessive amount of office supplies.

Starting with physical clutter simply gets you in the right mindset to deal with the trickier clutter: unnecessary projects,

information overload, negative people, and the wrong clients.

Declutter your projects. Put away

old, completed projects that no longer represent the current focus of your

Dealing with negative family members is more sensitive. Start by simply not discussing work with family members who have negative comments about your business.

irrelevant information that is constantly thrown at us on a minute-by-minute

basis. Be proactive in blocking out all the unwanted chatter.

You can quickly declutter your inbox by

unsubscribing from solicitation emails at unroll.me. If you don’t do anything else, do this.

It’s also a great idea to turn your phone off if you are in a meeting or in the middle of a big project. Most texts or calls are not emergencies.

Turn off all social media notifications on all

projects you haven’t even been able to

about what’s going on with you right now,

dream of yet.

Declutter negative people and upgrade your tribe. Jim Rohn says, “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” So if your ratio of negative friends is too high, it’s time to upgrade. I know this sounds harsh, but it’s what happy, successful people do.

It is completely counterproductive

business. This will open up space in your office and your mind for brilliant, future

Organizing: Ask The Expert

your devices while you are working. Worry not other people.

Declutter your clients. This is HARD, but it may be the best decision you make. If there are struggles and headaches, it can be a good move to fire a client. You should also turn down new clients/jobs that don’t match your business values. Make sure it’s a good fit.

Turning down work sounds crazy, but it will open up more opportunities for you to work with your ideal clients.

CLOUDNINEORGANIZING.COM

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

AUGUST 2020 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE | 17

Business Spotlight

PROTECTING THE INTEGRITY of Your Natural Lash

by Brooke Ezzo | photos courtesy of The Lash Lounge

T

he Lash Lounge has made a splash in the community over the last few years, and leading the charge is owner Yvonne Hemphill.

With over 30 years of experience in helping customers enhance their natural beauty and boost confidence, she has learned that superior service comes by operating a business focused on education and honesty.

Lash extensions have been around for a while, but they really became mainstream within the last 10 years. This growing

industry has gained a lot of excitement,

Yvonne and her team take pride in the

Yvonne is passionate about providing

extensive training process each stylist

and with that can come sub-par practices. high-quality work and differentiating her team from the rest.

“The Lash Lounge is

dedicated to protecting the integrity of the

natural lash, ensuring longevity. The stylists customize each

application based on length, curl type, and

thickness,” Yvonne said.

customization, the materials they use, the goes through, and the relationships they’ve built along the way.

“There is no onesize-fits-all when it comes to lash applications because natural lashes are different lengths and have different growing stages.”

“We focus on making

sure our stylists do very clean work.”

There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes

to lash applications because natural lashes are different lengths and have different

growing stages. It might be tempting to get your lashes done somewhere that

offers quick sets for a cheap price, but

The Lash Lounge is a business that focuses on supporting

women in the community but also provides a great career path for the stylists. With a

retirement plan to help their

future and on-going education,

Yvonne believes having a strong mentor at a younger age is vitally important.

“I am so grateful for everyone who continues to support us, not only

because the girls do great applications but because we create an atmosphere here where it’s like going to see your

best friend,” Yvonne said. “We’ve been very blessed.”

972.544.5626 | 5801 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 830 • Flower Mound, TX 75028 | thelashlounge.com 18 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE

| AUGUST 2020

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

The

River Walk IT’S ALMOST THERE!

by Steve Gamel

E

verywhere you turn, people are asking, “what’s up with The River Walk at Central Park in Flower Mound?” Obviously, there’s been plenty of activity with new businesses having already opened their doors and various features and amenities taking shape. But are we there yet? When can we expect to see the finished product?

Courtney Morrow, director of marketing and communications for Centurion American Development Group, did her best to fill us in on what’s done, what’s still to come, and, yes, how much longer we need to wait.

“We’re looking forward to five signature restaurants and the incoming River Walk Chapel and Water Works Hall reception venues being completed in late summer or fall of 2021,” Morrow said in an email.

“Anticipated to be 2021, early 2022 — an amphitheater, farmers market, and a splash pad are in the submission process with the city.”

She added, “Residents and the local community are excited about the project coming to fruition. We’re taking great pride and care to ensure every aspect of this project is well-thought-out and executed to the level it should be.”

The River Walk is a 158-acre mixed-use development that will allow residents to work, play, live, and shop all in one location. It integrates commercial, office, retail, dining, medical, civic, and residential uses and is located north of FM 1171, west of Morriss Road and east of www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

FM 2499. Just a few of the restaurants that have been reported to be involved in the restaurant row include Primo’s MX Kitchen & Lounge, Tillman’s, and Scout.

According to the Cross Timbers Gazette, the town has also issued finish-out permits for River Walk Dental, 4271 Esplanade Place, Mac&Z Playhouse and Cafe.

The project is constantly changing, and little by little, the River Walk concept is becoming a reality.

We will keep you up to date on the latest happenings as they unfold.

“Flower Mound has strong progressive growth,” Morrow added.

“Our River Walk project was one of the earlier mixeduse projects our company commenced. And the prime location, signature restaurants, event venues, and combined amenities will serve the development’s residents and Flower Mound community alike. We’re excited to bring new life to this growing area.

AUGUST 2020 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE | 19

20 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE

| AUGUST 2020

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

WaterWorks S

Press release submitted by Jessica Small | photos courtesy of Jessica Small

ummer time in Texas means hot and humid temperatures and high heat index levels that may cause

discomfort to many. It is very important that we take care of ourselves, whether

being indoors or outdoors in the summer months. A great way to do this is by

drinking plenty of water and staying hydrated daily.

drink at least 4-6 ounces of water every

water routine is a great plan to practice.

the more hydrated you will be. Some

water or take water breaks throughout

15 minutes. The more water you drink, perks of being

your day can help you

hydrated include

be more consistent.

providing boosts

Having water with

of energy. It also

you wherever you go

helps you to feel

is a key tip to staying

good throughout

hydrated. If you are

Drinking water is essential for all ages

your day. Some

dehydration. The recommendation of

you may be

should drink ranges from 9-13 cups a day.

headaches and

health, and length of physical activity.

to do a quick self-

water every day.

to increase your water intake.

and can prevent heat exhaustion and

signs that indicate

the amount of water adults and children

dehydrated are

This amount varies due to age, gender,

dry mouth. Be sure

However, the overall goal is to drink

Setting reminders on your phone to drink

always on the go, be sure to keep water

handy or grab one at a convenience store.

Fill up your water

bottle prior to leaving

check each day to determine if you need

for work, and refill as needed during the

day. Also, flavored water or infusing your water with nutritious fruits is another

If you enjoy taking

According to

riding a bicycle

of your body

outside, water

water. It flushes

with you. A good

organs, carries

During the summer months, I encourage

to drink 6 ounces

cells, cushions

Create a schedule for drinking water daily

helps you digest

significant source to us and helps our

healthy alternative. Try this option if you

a walk outside,

WebMD, 60%

or working out

weight is made of

should be taken

toxins from your

rule of thumb is

nutrients to your

you to stay hydrated as much as possible.

of water before

your joints, and

that works best for you. Water is such a

you exercise

prefer more of a taste to your drink. Being intentional with drinking water is a great habit to develop and will benefit your body over time.

and then every 15 minutes during your

the food you eat. It is good to drink water

bodies to function. Let’s all remember to

moderately or vigorously, you should

and also before any meal. Establishing a

truly works!

workout. Particularly, if you are exercising

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

when you first wake up in the morning

develop this healthy habit, because water

AUGUST 2020 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE | 21

22 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE

| AUGUST 2020

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

Business Spotlight

Resiliency

AND YOUR MENTAL HEALTH JOURNEY

by Steve Gamel

T

he team of clinicians at Connections Wellness Group was recently bowled over with excitement when one of its regular patients came strolling through the door with a big smile on his face. This was a young man who, from the second he joined the mental health program seven weeks earlier, had this profound sense of sadness about him.

The way he carried himself, his halfhearted interactions with those around him, and that he insisted that he didn’t want to be there, made it clear that he was embarking on a potentially long journey. And yet, on this one day, he looked resilient.

“I remember saying, ‘I think I heard him laugh!’” said Vianey Reinhardt, LPC and Vice President of Business Development.

“You saw this incredible change as he moved through the program. The community he built and the connections he made became very valuable to him.”

Sydney Reece, LPC and Director of Intake and UR, agreed, saying, “It was one of the more impactful things I’ve ever seen.”

Real-life results like these are what this team of mental health experts churn out every day through their Partial Hospitalization Program and Intensive Outpatient Program — even in the face

care is consistent because everything is handled in one office as they progress through different levels. Connections

offers 4-hour programs per day for teens and adults that include a wide array of

of COVID-19. They’ve hired the best of the best to handle the most clinically challenging of circumstances, whether in-person or through teleservices, and the PHP and IOP programs have since become nationally accredited.

services in one packaged approach:

So when the most is on the line (feelings of loneliness, chronic depression, thoughts of suicide), and your symptoms are so profound that you question your ability to come out on the other side, these people have your back.

home to practice the skills learned and

“The work we do is fragile, and you have to be intentional about it every day,” said Baqi Martin, LCSW-S and VP of Outpatient Services. “We focus on our clients’ resiliency. We prepare them for the seen and the unseen.”

been forced to adjust their services.

In a typical setting, a patient may be coming from a hospital to a private practitioner only to receive care from several entities. At Connections, the client

Process groups, psycho-educational

groups, experiential groups, psychiatric evaluations, nursing evaluations, and medication education.

Each evening, the participants return return the next day.

Nicole Hoffman, LPC Intern, LCDC, helped launch the adult PHP program. She has been amazed by the results — even as

medical facilities across the nation have “We did all of this during a pandemic,”

she said. “You can still get the level of care you need, no matter the situation.”

The message on kicking the stigma on

mental health has always been the same: it’s okay not to be okay. If you need

someone to talk to, give Connections Wellness Group a call.

940.222.2399 | ConectionsWellnessGroup.com | 2701 Shoreline Dr., Ste. 151• Denton, TX 76210 www.FlowerMoundMagzine.com

AUGUST 2020 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE | 23

YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS Learning the Value of a Dollar and Hard Work

by Brooke Ezzo

T

eenage summer jobs are like a rite of passage; car hop at the local Sonic, movie attendant at the theater, or birthday host at the trampoline park. But due to the coronavirus, this summer looked a bit different.

With many business closings or limited staff and availability, getting a summer job for many teens in the area was harder than summers past. The shortage in opportunities and the on-going break from school led to a rise in creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. Side businesses seem to be popping up all over social media with kids posting advertisements for their new job ventures.

It is nice to see this age group full of excitement and determination, to see their work ethic, even doing some jobs that most adults don’t like to do. And many are saving their money for future goals.

24 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE

| AUGUST 2020

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

One resident chose to spend her summer days cleaning trash cans in her neighborhood. And, the best part is, she is only 11-years-old.

Paz Molnar and her mother, Karen, came up with the idea last summer but never got it off the ground. With all the time available these past few months, Paz decided it was time to start her business.

PAZ MOLNAR Business: Trash can cleaning photo courtesy of Karen Molner

“Last summer we cleaned our own trash cans, and my mother pointed out that it would be a good business,” Paz said.

“During COVID, there was really nothing to do, so we decided to get started.”

After her mother made a simple post on

Facebook, Paz immediately gained the attention of many neighbors. She started work on June 4. Her parents helped her with the initial investment in cleaning supplies,

Paz isn’t the only young person with an entrepreneurial spirit. Two high

school seniors have made a splash this summer after launching their

business, Expressure Power Washing.

Best friends, Joel Polley and Collin

Carpentier, decided to get ahead of their parent’s quarantine-laziness-

complaints and start a business for the great learning experience.

“The idea for a power washing business

stemmed from a mission to help people

be happy and safe when they go outside and enjoy themselves,” Joel said. “We pressure wash driveways, sidewalks, patios, and pool decks.”

JOEL POLLEY & COLLIN CARPENTIER Business: Power washing driveways, sidewalks, patios, and pool decks photo courtesy of Joel Polley

The pair started their business this past May with plans to continue working part-time during the school year. They even have

future goals of expanding their services.

“Being two young entrepreneurs is

great. You learn so much along the way

like patience, perseverance, and how to

manage money,” Joel said. “It is so cool to meet a variety of people and be able to play a part in their happiness.”

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

but the work and on-going upkeep of the business has been fully left up to Paz. Averaging eight houses a week, normally cleaning after trash pickup, Paz has stayed very busy this summer.

“I enjoy it, and I make good money doing it,” Paz said. “It’s taught me how much a dollar is. When you don’t work, a dollar is just a dollar. But when you start working, a dollar is everything.”

Paz has continued working hard to save for college. She wants to go to medical school to become a surgeon. Her parents could not be more proud.

“I tell her all the time, ‘you’re 11-years-old, and this is a big accomplishment,’” Karen said. “It’s nice that she is learning this value. It’s a good feeling.”

Joel and Collin believe supporting young business owners helps create better college opportunities and career options for them. It also encourages creative thinking for bigger and better solutions to everyday problems.

“A big lesson we have learned is to not be afraid of setbacks because they are bound to happen,” Joel said. “Some advice we have for teens trying to start their own business is to create a plan and learn from the people who are the best at what you are trying to start.”

There are many other young entrepreneurs in our area making names for themselves, starting businesses from the ground up and learning the value of hard work. Just as much as we promote the community supporting local small businesses, it is important to support and encourage these young minds and their entrepreneurial spirit, as well.

“A dream without a goal is just a wish,” Paz said. “You need to plan it out and take the leap. Just go for it.”

If children are our future, our future looks bright.

AUGUST 2020 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE | 25

Lewisville ISD

PREPARES FOR

2020-2021 SCHOOL YEAR

by Brooke Ezzo

A

s we all know Lewisville Independent School District students left schools for spring break this past March and did not return because of the COVID-19 pandemic. As extended spring break turned into summer break, and now the new school year has started, there is still much confusion.

The ever-changing information from both federal and state entities in regards to the virus has left the district, parents, and caregivers on the edge of their seats as they wait for further instruction on plans for the 2020-2021 school year.

Lewisville ISD, along with neighboring districts originally planned for a two-fold option. Parents could chose between in-person instruction or remote learning. This plan was adopted with guidance from the Texas Education Agency (TEA).

As registration deadlines and the early August return date quickly approached, parents were encouraged to fill out the emailed surveys and complete child registrations. This valuable data helped the district narrow down the safety measures needed to be taken and implement guidelines for students to return to school.

26 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE

| AUGUST 2020

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

in-person instruction. Those who chose to virtual learn will continue through the virtual platform.

The district is ready and prepared for when students can return to the classrooms. Millions of dollars have been spent to ensure the safety of students and staff when returning to school is an option, this includes additional personal protective equipment, desk shields for classrooms and teachers, purchase of specialized machines to deep clean the facilities daily, and more.

Daily attendance rules will apply, and students will be required to show evidence of daily learning.

The district was prepared for students to return to the classrooms, but that will have to wait for now. An announcement was made on July 27th from the District following the advice from the Denton County Public Health Department that students would not return to campuses just yet. Denton County followed suit after several other North Texas counties announced their delayed in-person starts.

Due to the recent COVID-19 trends in Denton County, with lab-confirmed cases growing to nearly 1,000 in a week, the health department’s stance is that it

is not safe to open schools to in-person learning at this time.

The first day of school remained August 19th, but the district is following the health department’s recommendation that in-person instruction be delayed until September 8.

During enrollment, parents were encouraged to choose between the two options: in-person and remote learning. As of now, those who chose in-person learning will have to remote learn until the September 8 date and then students are able to transition into

Until then, the district has adopted a more robust model for virtual learning than what was used when students were not allowed to return to the classroom in March. This form of learning will come with the same expectations for learning as the traditional face-to-face instruction model.

This includes more teacher interaction and more time in virtual learning and completing lessons. Remote learning might be semi-flexible, but based on state guidelines, the students are still required to mirror the level of work, commitment, and time on a task as they would with in-person learning. Daily attendance rules will apply, and students will be required to show evidence of daily learning. This means saving all assignments until the end of the week will no longer be applicable.

There are still many questions, and they may not be answered until last minute due to the fluidity of the situation.

But, the district is working tirelessly to provide the best possible outcome for our students as we navigate through the wake of COVID-19 and the ending of our previous school year.

To review the announcements and any further instructions, visit www.lisd.net/covid19.

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

AUGUST 2020 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE | 27

YOUR

STAYCATION

EXPERTS

by Steve Gamel | Cover photo by Nick Allen Photography (www.naphoto307.com) Before and after photos courtesy of Bowen Pools

BEFORE

28 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE

| AUGUST 2020

AFTER

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

I

n mid-June, Chris Bowen shared an anniversary picture on Facebook of him and his wife, Kourtney, standing on a beautiful beach. The caption said that they should be in Hawaii sipping drinks and celebrating another year together, but that none of that mattered so long as they had each other, their baby girl, and three dogs.

during the summer, but what you’re

It was a sweet moment that likely earned Chris quite a few brownie points. But it was also an example of what many of us are going through, as dreams of that perfect summer vacation have been put on the back burner because of COVID-19.

as you take a look around your property

automation system so they can control the

do with the space. It’s also true for all

all the things they’d normally push off.”

Chris feels your pain. But don’t let your latest “staycation” get you and your family down. Just call Bowen Pools.

Believe it or not, the construction and pool industry is booming right now — and it’s not difficult to see why. More and more families are forced to shelter in place, so they’re taking the money they would have spent on an expensive vacation to Hawaii or Disney World and investing it in their homes. This includes everything from backyard upgrades such as outdoor kitchens and patio covers to pool renovations and other services that they’d normally push off. Bowen Pools in Flower Mound is Denton County’s one-stop-shop for all of that and more, and they’ve had no trouble meeting the demand.

“We didn’t expect to see a rise in renovations and services like we have, but we’re here to help,” Chris said. “The construction industry is usually slow

BEFORE

seeing is people who have extra money

now. They are on a staycation, and they’re looking at ways to invest in their homes.”

He added, “It’s okay to spend that

vacation money. We can take your staycation to another level.”

future holds, so they’re finally doing what they’ve always dreamed of doing.”

Service manager Tanner Maunsell agreed.

“The biggest thing I’ve noticed on the service side is how much people are

using their pools now. So they’re fixing their heaters, upgrading to variable

The possibilities are endless, especially

speed pumps, and even updating their

and realize how much more you could

entire thing from their phone. These are

those things that haven’t been fixed in

Tanner has been by Chris’ side for

a while. Bowen Pools not only handles

all your pool needs, whether it’s weekly

service repairs, remodels, renovations, or new construction, but they also handle

spas, covered patios, outdoor kitchens,

fireplaces, and landscaping. They offer indepth design approaches that are pivotal to ensuring your outdoor oasis is the

envy of the neighborhood. Chris said his

team never stops learning their craft and

would like to think their expertise in new construction and renovations is right up there with the best of them.

On the renovation side, that includes upsizing plumbing, tanning ledges, changing the shape of pools, and incorporating pergolas and other landscape design.

“People who have been wanting to make big changes for a long time are finally

pulling the trigger,” renovation specialist Lance Cullum said. “Even jobs we bid six months to a year ago are now coming through. They don’t know what the

the last two years and has enjoyed

watching Bowen Pools grow from a

one-man operation to a major player in an industry where options are

seemingly on every street corner.

A family-owned and operated company, Bowen Pools has been around for

nearly three years and was named Best

Swimming Pool Remodeler by area voters in last year’s Best of Denton County

awards. They were also a Top 3 finisher for Best Pool Maintenance and Best Swimming Pool Builders.

When it comes to their customers and creating the perfect backyard oasis, there’s no one else better to call.

“It’s a great time to invest in your home,” Chris added. “And as far as today’s

environment goes, we’re making sure

our guys are wearing masks in the office, and we’re doing temperature checks

and sanitizing every day to ensure our

showroom is as safe as it can possibly be for our clients.”

AFTER

214.770.7227

WWW.BOWENPOOLSLLC.COM 3341 LONG PRAIRIE RD. FLOWER MOUND, TX 75022

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

AUGUST 2020 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE | 29

30 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE

| AUGUST 2020

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

Jalapeño

INGREDIENTS: • 1 (32oz.) Bag Frozen Tater Tots • 2 (8oz. each) Packages of Cream Cheese

TAT E R T O T C A S SEROLE

• 1 Cup (8oz.) of Sour Cream • 6 Cups Mexican Style Shredded Cheese • 3 (3oz. each) Bags of Bacon Bits • 6-8 Medium Sized Jalapeños • 2/3 Cup Green Onion

DIRECTIONS: 1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

2. Evenly spread bag of tater tots across a 9 by 13 inch baking dish. Put in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes. This will be your first layer.

3. Chop 2/3 of a cup of jalapeños and make sure to remove the seeds. There will be jalapeños left over.

4. Chop up the green onions and put 1/3 of a cup aside.

5. In a mixing bowl combine the cream cheese, sour cream,

7. Next spread the Mexican Style Shredded Cheese across the top making the third layer.

8. Now spread the 1 (3oz.) bag of bacon bits and the 1/3 cup of green onions over the cheese evenly. This will make the fourth layer.

9. Cut slices of the left over jalapeño and lay them down over the top.

10. Put the dish back in the oven for 20 minutes.

2 (3oz. each) bags of bacon bits, 2/3 cup of jalapeños and 1/3 cup of green onion and mix them together. This will be your cream spread.

6. After the tater tots are done cooking take the cream spread and evenly spread it over the tater tots to create your second layer.

For more heat to this dish add chopped pickled jalapeños and add the juice to the cream spread.

Also, you can add pickled jalapeños on the very top of the casserole.

For less spice reduce the jalapeños from 1/2 to 1/3 of a cup in the cream spread and do not add them to the top. www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

AUGUST 2020 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE | 31

Ask The Expert: Travel

Montmartre T H E

B O H E M I A N

S I D E

O F

P A R I S !

by Terri Guthrie | photo courtesy of Terri Guthrie

I

f Paris is on your bucket list for the future, you probably will see the obvious iconic sites like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Notre Dame. But be sure and add the historic district of Montmartre.

I was very curious about this area of Paris that is rich in artistic history.

Now, Montmartre is always on our Paris itinerary!

We wandered the cobblestone streets and marveled at the bohemian vibe.

This hill is the highest point in all of Paris!

There are fascinating legends and lots of colorful history in Montmartre!

and was founded in 1793. It’s one of the oldest restaurants in Paris.

As we walked to the top of this steep hill in Montmartre, we finally saw the breathtaking Basilica of Sacre-Coeur as it sits like a white crown overlooking Paris. It’s truly a masterpiece of grace and grandeur!

Do like most tourists and enjoy simply sitting on the massive steps in front of Sacre-Coeur. It overlooks the entire city. It is absolutely one of the most spectacular views in all of Paris…and is not to be missed!

I would recommend starting your sightseeing at Moulin Rouge. This is the famous cabaret that began in 1889 and is still running today.

Many famous artists were nurtured here and had studios or worked in or around Montmartre. All these artist homes and some film locations are fascinating to see.

A local tour guide is always a good idea.

Or try the Little Train of Montmartre. It loops around the hill taking visitors on a 40-minute tour with commentary.

While exploring, we found a new favorite place to eat. It is restaurant “La Mere Catherine,” and it is right in the heart of Montmartre. We enjoyed delicious authentic French cuisine in a charming dining room. It’s “The First French Bistro,” FOLLOW TERRI ON INSTAGRAM @TRAVELWITHTERRI

32 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE

| AUGUST 2020

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

THE DECISION

SCHOOLS

FACE

by Denton County Judge Andy Eads photo courtesy of Judge Andy Eads

O

n July 27, 2020, our Denton County Health Department issued a recommendation to Denton County superintendents, suggesting they consider delaying in-person instruction on campuses until Sept. 8. This was a recommendation only and not a mandate. While some in the public have asked us to close schools to in-person instruction, our county attorneys have correctly advised us that counties did not have the power to mandate countywide school closures. On July 28, 2020, attorney General Ken Paxton issued an AG opinion stating state law does not allow local health authorities to order the closure of schools as a preemptive measure to curb the spread of the disease. Later that day, the Texas Education Agency stated school districts could risk losing state funding if they closed schools solely based on closure orders issued by local health officials.

This recommendation was made considering many factors – from the ongoing rise in positive COVID-19 cases to the need to help keep our children and their families as well as teachers and administrators as safe as possible with the community spread of this virus.

While this was an independent recommendation made by the Denton County Health Department, and the Denton County Commissioners Court were not involved in the recommendation, we have kept in touch with our school administrators since early March.

As we have talked, we have come to realize the challenges they face in

balancing safety with the need for inschool instruction.

The sole purpose of their

recommendation is to give

superintendents and our elected

school boards the information with

which to make decisions in the best interests of their students, teachers and parents.

Earlier this year as graduations loomed

near, we offered an alternative as school administrators were meeting to discuss

what options would be available during this pandemic.

I was able to reach out to the Texas Motor Speedway to see if they would be willing to consider hosting graduations in a

manner in which students and parents

could celebrate a major milestone while maintaining their safety.

Many of you watched your children

cross the outdoor stage to receive their

diplomas while you sat inside your cars or stepped outside to stand near vehicles, looking at the large screens as your graduate stepped forward.

I was one of those parents, watching our son cross the stage to graduate from

Marcus High School. It was a moment I will cherish forever.

That was the reason behind the

suggestion – to give all graduates

The impact of keeping students home from school reaches into family lives as parents balance work with assisting their children with school studies. It is a difficult balancing act for everyone.

and their families a moment they will

Our role is a supportive one as the ultimate decisions rest with the local school boards and the Texas Education Agency. Our Denton County Health Department keeps close tabs on how COVID-19 is spreading in our communities and whether circumstances for large gatherings is in the best interests of everyone.

or recommendation is popular with

never forget.

We are all facing challenges as we

navigate a new normal during this oncein-a-lifetime pandemic. No suggestion everyone. We realize that.

However, our ultimate goal is to find a

way to keep moving forward while still staying safe.

That mission continues to drive all of us – from business and community leaders to county officials and others.

If you have any questions or comments, please let me hear from you at andy.eads@dentoncounty.com or 940.349.2820 For more information, register for my newsletter at www.Dentoncounty.gov/countyjudgenewslettersignup. www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

AUGUST 2020 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE | 33

Baby

Proofing SIMPLIFIED

by Leanne Yocum

A

re they really going to let us leave this hospital with this baby? From that moment on, you are instantly and irrevocably entrusted with the most extraordinary responsibility – keeping your new baby safe!

Avoid the bumps and boo-boos with a little baby proofing know how.

NURSERY

FURNITURE

BATHROOM

Cuddly blankets, pillows, crib bumpers, and huggable stuffed animals flaunt oohs and ahhs. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) caution parents to avoid putting these items in the crib with their newborns. Snuggly items can cover their nose and mouth and prevent them from breathing.

Open drawers are magnets for babies learning to pull up. Fill lower drawers with heavier items and keep them closed. Consider furniture anchors or straps so heavy furniture will be less likely to tip over. Wrangle in toys, storing them in a toy chest with a safe hinged lid that won’t snap closed on little cowgirl and cowboy pint-sized fingers. Accessorize tables with corner guards, bumpers, or foam insulation to soften the impact. Use double-sided tape inside foam insulation for extra superstar strength.

Forbidden treasures such as razors, mouthwash, toothpaste, cosmetics, hair products, and perfumes should be stored in latched cabinets and drawers.

Put a hook or lock high up on the bathroom door to ensure tiny pirates keep out. Keep water temperature set to no higher than 120 degrees to minimize accidental scalding. Antiscald safety devices slow water to a trickle if it reaches dangerously high temperatures. Turn on a cold faucet before the hot and turn off hot faucet before the cold. Don’t let the doorbell or cell phones distract you while your bathing beauty’s in the tub.

34 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE

| AUGUST 2020

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

WINDOWS

KITCHEN

ELECTRICAL CORDS and OUTLETS

Babies love to explore. Move cribs, chairs, and large toys a child can stand on away from windows. Install window stops or window guards. Ensure blind cords are higher than your little one can reach. Replace old window blinds with cordless shades or use cord stops.

Cut blind cord loops just above the tassel and replace each cord with a new tassel. Some blinds require the cord be looped to function properly.

Little chefs love to help! Create a play cupboard away from the cooking area. Include wooden spoons, plastic containers, and saucepans. Place cleaning products, breakables, sharp knives, peelers, graters, and food processor blades in upper cabinets.

When using front burners, turn pot handles to the back. Consider knob covers or remove the stove knobs when not in use. Avoid spills that can burn delicate skin. Don’t leave a hot cup or dish at the edge of a table where curious hands can reach. Don’t sit with your baby on your lap while drinking a hot beverage or carry your baby with one hand while carrying a hot drink with the other.

Wiggly cords and mysterious outlets are irresistible for baby ninjas with emerging skills. Hide cords behind furniture so your little warrior cannot tug on cords that may also be attached to heavy items above. Outlets are eye level to skilled crawlers with perfectly sized little fingers. Consider removable caps that cover both outlets, covers with a sliding safety latch, or blank outlet covers if the outlet is not used.

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

AUGUST 2020 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE | 35

36 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE

| AUGUST 2020

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

Business Spotlight

Changing People’s

LIVES THROUGH WEIGHT LOSS

L

by Steve Gamel | photo courtesy of Laura Alexis

aura and Lynne Alexis can tell you countless stories of everyday people who struggled with being overweight but saw their lives change in the blink of an eye — all because of a laser that looks and feels like it’s not doing anything.

For example, one gentleman needed to drop a few pounds before he could be approved for knee surgery. Within a few weeks, he went back to his doctor and was told the surgery was no longer necessary. There was also a patient who, for years, relied on a walker to get around but miraculously cast it aside, and another gentleman who always had to purchase two seats and ask for a seatbelt extender when he’d get on an airplane. They are both now living their best life.

And then you have Laura, who five years ago was depressed and overweight after the loss of her baby boy, Phillip. A doctor she worked for introduced her to a small laser machine tucked away in a corner.

“There was a red, shining light hovering over my tummy area, and I remember rolling my eyes and looking down as I

said, ‘Are you sure this is working? I can’t feel anything,’” Laura said. “I did this on a Monday, and when I came back two days later and saw the results, I was so excited that I couldn’t wait to get under it again and push the repeat button. When it transformed me mentally, physically, and emotionally, I knew I had to do the same for others.”

And just like that, Innovative Lasers of Houston was born.

When we caught up with Laura and Lynne earlier this month, she shared how Innovative Lasers went from a single office to six — five in Houston and one in Preston Hollow — while changing the weight loss game several thousand fat cells at a time.

And it’s all thanks to the Zerona Laser, the first FDA-approved non-invasive total body contouring procedure without the adverse side effects of surgical and other weight loss procedures like liposuction.

There’s no downtime, no swelling, no bruising, no pain, no heat, and no cold.

Zerona is FDA approved, and patients experience an average reduction of 3 to 11 inches in two weeks.

“We don’t destroy fat cells; we shrink them,” Laura said. “Like a magnet that is attracted to metal, the Zerona Laser is attracted to fat cells. It creates tears in the fat cells and sweeps them throughout the body so the content of those cells naturally seep out through bodily fluids such as urine and sweat. When that happens, the results are immediate.”

The Zerona Laser is good for anybody and everybody — regardless of whether you want to lose five pounds or 105 pounds. Not only does their laser shrink the fat cells, but patients aren’t left with troublesome loose skin because the laser stimulates the collagen in your body.

“I feel strongly that this procedure shouldn’t just be for the rich and famous but also for the average person just like me,” she said. “I’m here to help people and change people’s lives.”

Call NOW For A FREE CONSULTATION

214.484.2340 | www.InnovativeLasersOfHouston.com www.FlowerMoundMagzine.com

AUGUST 2020 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE | 37

Business Spotlight

When You NEED TO KNOW

THE TRUTH

by Steve Gamel | photo courtesy of Stacy Willingham

A

t 5-feet, 2-inches tall and with tattoos up and down each arm, Stacy Willingham admits she’s not your typical-looking private investigator. But with an extensive background as an award-winning journalist and an eye for always finding out the truth, she and the rest of her knowledgeable team are quickly becoming the only call you’ll ever need to make.

talk to us easier. They also appreciate

“You wouldn’t know it by looking at us,” she said with a laugh. “We can get into a lot of places, though. And we’re passionate about what we do. Our clients know that, and that’s why they trust us in the most complicated of situations.”

investigations. They are also evidence

makes such a dramatic shift to PI work,

Allow us to introduce you to Yellow Rose Investigations. Based in Denton, Stacy’s allfemale firm has been around for three years and discreetly covers every investigative services area. This includes interviewing witnesses, undercover surveillance, child custody investigations, process services, infidelity investigations, and death

They also handle domestic and family

38 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE

| AUGUST 2020

experts — and the proof speaks for itself.

The evidence they routinely gather has

led to everything from early judgments in

court cases to making life-saving changes to custody arrangements.

investigations, skip

tracing, social media

investigations, missing persons and cold

cases, and some of the toughest locate cases in Denton County and beyond.

how diligent we are. Our clients trust us because of our high ethical standards and honesty.”

It’s not every day that a former journalist but Stacy had plenty of mentors along the way. Her mother-in-law worked for the Denton County Sheriff’s Department for roughly 30 years, and her father-in-law is a detective in the Internet Crimes Division at the Fort Worth Police Department.

Stacy studied under several licensed agencies and completed a private investigation course through the University of Texas and PDI in 2016.

If you feel there is an unturned stone somewhere, or you’ve been trying for months to find that one

“It’s an all-female team, and I think that

needle of truth in a haystack of lies,

Stacy said. “Our clients feel like they can

at 469.826.9896.

really stands out and makes us different,”

call Stacy and Yellow Rose Investigations

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

Edit This: Ask The Expert

I’M WRITING

MY FIRST BOOK AND YOU SHOULD, TOO!

by Steve Gamel, Owner of Edit This

I have an announcement. Well, sort of.

I'm writing my first book. The first draft is already complete, and it’s now in the hands of a publishing company. I started it in January, and God willing, it will be published this year.

Now, you’re probably thinking, “Congrats!

What's the book about? Tell us more!”

Well, that’s the “sort of” part that I mentioned earlier. While I’m inching closer and closer to a finished product, I’m not ready to divulge to the world what it’s about just yet. I know that’s probably a copout. And you’re right. It’s just one of those books that could change quite a bit over the next few months. I’ve already added two additional chapters since I first started sharing it with people and ultimately turned it over to a publishing company. I don’t want to jinx anything by saying too much too soon.

What I can tell you is that I am super excited, and the journey to finishing the book has shown me that I totally should have done this sooner. And if you’ve been

thinking about doing the same, so should you! As much as I have written some pretty neat stuff over the years, including editing and ghostwriting books for a few clients, writing my own book is the one thing I haven’t done yet.

I previously started on a few ideas; in fact, I tried writing Sci-Fi books (that's not what this book is, by the way) when I was a kid. But they all sounded too much like Star Wars, and I never got past the few chapters.

Over the years, my mom nagged me to write something – even if it was a children’s book (also ... not what this book is about). It wasn’t that I didn’t want to. I just needed to find something that I wanted to write about – and that people will read.

When it’s finally unveiled, I hope that you’ll agree it was worth the wait.

In the meantime, don’t forget to call Edit This® for all your writing and editing needs!

Whether you need us to write content from scratch or put a better spin on what you’ve written, we are the local writing and editing partner every business owner needs.

Thanks for reading!

469.360.3611 | EDITTHISLLC.COM

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

AUGUST 2020 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE | 39

Be-YOU-tiful I ns ide an d O ut

by Brooke Ezzo | photo courtesy of Lauren Peck

O

ver the course of four days, 38 girls entering eighth and ninth grade were given a platform to learn, engage, and empower one another during a virtual leadership camp inspired by Girl Scout Ambassador, Lauren Peck.

The Flower Mound High School senior spent the last year organizing, planning, and fundraising for her camp, Be-YOU-tiful Leadership Camp for Girls. Her mission is to break stereotypes and encourage young girls entering high school.

The idea for a camp was inspired by her own attendance at two leadership camps last summer, the Hugh O’Brien Youth Leadership Seminar and Camp 43. She enjoyed the camp experience and as a take away, an idea was born. She would create a camp that prepared middle school aged girls with a roadmap for navigating high school and beyond.

“There are two reasons why I wanted to target girls for the camp,” Lauren said. “I am a girl and can speak from experience, and girls tend to be

40 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE

| AUGUST 2020

intimidated in mixed settings. So I wanted a safe space where girls could be honest, learn new skills, and make new friends.”

Be-YOU-tiful is Lauren’s passion project as part of her Girl Scout Girl Award, where scouts are to pick an issue and try to help it within their community. High school tends to be a time when girls are self-conscious, learning who they are, and automatically categorized. A goal of the camp was to give these girls a built-in sisterhood as they enter a new school and empower them with tools needed to be all right with who they are.

“The camps I attended were so inspiring, but it would have much more helpful if I would have had that information earlier in my life,” Lauren said. “It was a push for me to get this information to girls early so they can start acting on it.”

Once she decided what the camp would look like, Lauren got to work. On January 18, she held a fundraising event for the camp. It was a tennis tournament at the Flower Mound High School tennis courts.

Over 50 people showed up to compete, and with the money raised she had plenty to support her leadership camp. With the extra money she had, donated six iPads to the Dallas Tennis and Education Academy.

This is an organization Lauren is passionate about because she has been playing tennis competitively since she was in middle school.

Be-YOU-tiful Leadership Camp for Girls was originally going to be an in-person camp, but due to the coronavirus, Lauren took the

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

camp online via Zoom held July 20-23. Each day, participants would hear from a speaker on a specific topic and engage in activities, games, and a raffle, which included the opportunity to win a prize.

Speakers included Chasity Lansdell, a counselor at Flower Mound High School; Bert Cole, director of the Dallas Tennis and Education Academy; Stephanie Shelby, VP at Lennar Homes; and Lauren Peck.

“Our counselor spoke to them about the transition from middle to high school. As a charity organization, I wanted Bert Cole to emphasize the importance of volunteerism,” Lauren said. “Stephanie spoke to them about how to be professional in the work place, how to write a resume, and how to do an interview. High school is the time most girls get their first jobs, I wanted to give them an opportunity to get advice on that.”

On the fourth day, Lauren gave the participants a chance to ask questions to a panel of high school girls and to get real,

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

honest advice on what to expect. Lauren spoke on breaking stereotypes and ways to encourage and build each other up.

so much, I thought, ‘just go for it,’” Laura said. “I really think she changed those 38 girls lives with this camp.”

“We explored our passions, and I am hoping they will be able to identify them so they can use through high school and beyond,” Lauren said. “I have always wanted to guide people. It gives me a sense of fulfillment.”

Lauren is planning on hosting the camp again next year, hopefully in person.

Lauren’s slogan for the camp was, be YOU because you are beautiful.

“My advice for girls is to keep an open mind to everything and everyone,” Lauren said. “To go out and do great things now, because now is the time to.”

Lauren’s mother, Laura Peck, helped her promote the camp with fliers and social attention but says Lauren did this all on her own.

“When Lauren said she wanted to do a

project like this, it seemed so huge. But when she spoke to me about why it meant

AUGUST 2020 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE | 41

Start Your

RUBBER DUCKIE It’s Duck Season!

by Brooke Ezzo | photo courtesy Mixed Media Creations

I

t’s that time of the year again when the River Walk is painted the color yellow with thousands of little rubber ducks floating to the finish line. Will yours be the winner?

include music throughout the event,”

The 3rd Annual Duck Derby hosted by Rhythms at the River Walk and presented by the Cross Timbers Rotary is a signature fundraising event that helps support over 20 Denton County charities.

Show Food Trucks utilizing local vendors,

Jim said. “We also included a 5K Race,

Kids Activity Area featuring Ranch Hand Rescue, a Farmers Market and Vendor and of course, the Duck Race itself.”

The past two years, the Duck Derby

ADOPT A DUCK

In 2017, two Rotary leaders Andy Eads and Chuck Elsey were presented with the Duck Derby idea as a potential fundraiser. And after seeing a race firsthand, it became the club’s goal to host an event in 2018 for the Flower Mound community.

Rotary member Jim Moll said the club wanted the event to expand beyond “just” a duck race and create an event that involved the community in many different ways.

“As a club, we created the vision of ‘Rhythms at the River Walk’ that would 42 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE

| AUGUST 2020

has been an all day event with the aim to create a

family-friendly atmosphere

the entire community could

enjoy while serving the non-

profits in the area. Due to the

impact of COVID-19, the club deems it necessary to draw

back the event this year to a smaller scale.

“We are only doing the duck race this

year,” Jim said. “There is much unknown about the level regulation related

social distancing. We know that many organizations have not been able to

execute their fundraising events as they have in the past, and it’s because of

this we felt it important we continue the event even if it is much smaller.”

This year, the club has created a “Buck-A-Duck” fundraising opportunity for non-profits to be able to generate funds faster. To be apart of this, simply organize a team with an awesome team name, then send your designated weblink, provided by the club, out to everyone you know and for each duck sponsored your organization earns a Buck-A-Duck.

The past two events have provided nearly $80,000 in grants, and the club hopes to race 20,000 ducks this year with a goal of $100,000 in funds raised.

“This is a community event that benefits local non-profits who in turn support many needs of the community,” Jim said. “The absolute best way for anyone and everyone to get involved is to adopt a duck.”

The Duck Derby will be held on September 19, 2020 at 11 a.m. May the best duck WIN! Adopt a duck today and help make a difference in our community, www.duckrace.com/crosstimbers.

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

AUGUST 2020 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE | 43

SHERIFF’S W I T H

S H E R I F F

T R A C Y

Texas Commission

JAIL STANDARDS

T

he Denton County Jail was inspected by the Texas Commission on Jail Standards in July, and we are proud to report that once again, we passed the State Jail Inspection.

The Texas Legislature created the Commission on Jail Standards in 1975 to implement a declared state policy that all county jail facilities conform to minimum standards of construction, maintenance, and operation. It is the duty of the commission to promulgate reasonable written rules and procedures establishing minimum standards, inspection procedures, enforcement policies, and technical assistance for: 1. The construction, equipment, maintenance, and operation of jail facilities under its jurisdiction.

2. The custody, care, and treatment of inmates.

M U R P H R E E

WE ARE

HIRING

If you are interested in a career in Law Enforcement, join our family and be a part of a great organization.

Detention Officer I positions start at $38,752.00 per year.

Visit our website to apply. www.governmentjobs.com/ careers/dentoncounty

3. Programs of rehabilitation, education, and recreation for inmates confined in county and municipal jail facilities under its jurisdiction.

“Passing the State Jail Inspection is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our Detention Officers and Detention Staff. They do an amazing job every day to ensure the safety and security of the inmates under their care,” stated Sheriff Tracy Murphree.

940.349.1600 | 127 N. WOODROW LN., STE. 300 • DENTON, TX 76205 | DENTONCOUNTY.COM/DEPARTMENTS/SHERIFF.ASPX 44 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE

| AUGUST 2020

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

Business Spotlight

Luxury A

EXPERIENCE

S

andi Hammons Studios is home to the world’s finest master-level aesthetics artists.

Sandi Hammons, the celebrity permanent makeup artist, has launched her luxury cosmetic services studios in Highland Village, Texas.

To say that Sandi Hammons is a successful entrepreneur is an understatement. In addition to pioneering and perfecting permanent makeup tattoos, Sandi has mentored many of the world’s foremost cosmetic surgeons, color experts, permanent makeup practitioners, hair stylists and skincare specialists.

And now, Denton County residents have Sandi and her team of master cosmetic artists all to themselves.

Sandi Hammons Studios, located at 2910 Justin Road, in Highland Village has quickly become the face of luxury beauty services, including hair care, makeup tattoos, hair and lash extensions, aesthetics, brow henna, facial fillers, hair removal, microdermabrasion and more. They also offer master-level education courses for cosmetologists and aesthetic artists.

At more than 10,000 square feet, the facility features an open patio and garden, meeting spaces, and more.

Sandi Hammons Studios is more of a sanctuary than a typical salon. At more than 10,000 square feet, the facility features an open patio and garden, meeting spaces, and more. They have over 30 artists to cater to your every need. Sandi Hammons Studios features the finest cosmetologists in the area.

“We are selective about who we choose to represent our brand,” said Sandi. “Because we inspire mastery, we only lease space to the finest stylists in the area — leaving clients with stunning results.

“It’s new. It’s innovative. It’s high-end.

Education is key to creating master level aesthetic artists and that’s what sets us apart,” Sandi said. “This isn’t your typical group of cosmetologists. Innovation and education are the driving forces behind our team of professionals.”

She added, “Our mission is to create a sanctuary in the village, where clients come to us for rejuvenation and leave with not only better confidence, but inner confidence as well. We aim to give hope to our city.”

“I’ve traveled all over the world, visited many cities, and I think Highland Village and Flower Mound are exceptional towns.

I love being in this community.”

DITCH YOUR QUARANTINE LOOK AND GET GLAMORIZED TODAY! Apply to be a Permanent Makeup Model and SAVE UP TO $350 for a limited time only.

817.701.1756 | www.sandihammonsstudios.com | 2910 Justin Rd. • Highland Village, TX 75077 www.FlowerMoundMagzine.com

AUGUST 2020 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE | 45

The Classic

Margarita

N

othing says summer quite like The Original Margarita. And for the aspiring mixologist to the cocktail newbie, extra time at home is perfect for mastering The Margarita. There is nothing easier than shaking up this refreshing cocktail, in its original form or in one of its many delightful variations.

customize to your tastes or ingredients.

Here are some fun facts about The Margarita to help inspire your next happy hour with friends – virtual or otherwise:

•

It’s no surprise now that margaritas are a popular happy hour cocktail, so make sure to share your favorite Margarita recipe with your virtual happy hour pals for toasting together.

2. The origin of The Original Margarita The Original Margarita was created when Dallas socialite Margarita Sames mixed her two favorite spirits, Cointreau and tequila, together with lime juice while she was vacationing in Acapulco back in 1948.

or craving a classic there is a Margarita for everyone.

Herbal – Add fresh lemon and

basil for The Lemon Basil Margarita

that tastes straight out of the garden.

The balance of citrus and herbs gives

1. It’s the most popular cocktail in America Did you know that The Margarita is America’s favorite cocktail? Since Nielsen first started conducting surveys to discover bargoers’ favorite drinks in 2016, The Margarita has been the number one pick. In 2019, the Margarita edged out the Martini, the Old-Fashioned, the Mimosa and the Moscow Mule for the coveted first-place spot.

Whether you’re feeling adventurous

this drink a light yet juicy flavor.

•

Spicy – The Cucumber Jalapeno

Margarita combines the coolness of cucumber with a spicy burst of

jalapeno for just the right amount

of kick. Experiment with the amount of jalapeno to suit your own taste.

• Ingredients:

Tangy – Use slices of fresh ginger

and fresh mint leaves for a unique flavor combination. The spice

1 ounce Cointreau

of ginger gives The Ginger Mint

2 ounces Blanco tequila

is aromatically balanced by the

Margarita a tantalizing bite that refreshing mint.

1 ounce fresh lime juice Instructions:

•

Fruity – Use seasonal, colorful fruit to shake up a Margarita that is

•

Combine all ingredients in a shaker and add ice.

•

Shake and strain into a salt-rimmed rocks glass.

5. It’s the salt that makes it sweet

•

Garnish with a lime wheel.

Why the salt-rimmed glass? Salt is actually

3. All you need are three ingredients

4. It’s a highly customizable cocktail

The original recipe is elegant and simple.

It’s easy to make, even for beginners – no fancy ingredients required.

The Original Margarita is a classic on its own – the recipe has stood the test of over 70 years. However, it’s very easy to

beautiful, bright and juicy. A few berries work great.

present on the Margarita glass to bring out the sweet and sour flavors of the

drink. Just a pinch of salt around the rim is needed to enhance the flavors in this classic, refreshing cocktail.

To find dozens of recipes for creative Margaritas and other iconic cocktails, visit Cointreau.com/Cocktails or follow them on Instagram @Cointreau_US.

46 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE

| AUGUST 2020

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

AUGUST 2020 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE | 47

“When children are in a stress response, their brains are basically offline and in a 100% emotional state at that time,” Dr.

Trotter said. “The parents’ job is to help

their child calm down. Once they are calm, then use reasoning to try and talk about the issue.”

Signs to Look For: • If a child consistently tells you they

have a stomachache or headache, or

Stressful Times Positive Reinforcement

CALL

FOR

A

by Brooke Ezzo | photo courtesy of Dr. Kay Trotter

• If a child all of a sudden starts avoiding people or places.

• Refusal to go anywhere or leave the house.

• Meltdowns and tantrums.

• Hard time winding down before

s the founder of Kaleidoscope Behavioral Health in Flower Mound, a published author, international conference speaker, and a pioneer in the research of Equine-Assisted Mental Health, Dr. Kay Trotter, Ph.D. is an incredible resource to the community. Over the last few months, adults and school-aged children have been feeling stress and confusion over the impact of COVID-19.

With the uncertainty of the economy, businesses closing, tough decisions being made about starting the school year, and the shelter-in-place order, the rise in questions about our mental health needs to be addressed.

to school stress is normal. What I want to

“Right now, there is a lot of stress and anxiety. And because of that, it means that our window of tolerance is smaller. We are not as patient; even our children are on edge,” Dr. Trotter said. “But, going back

We react to the hormones in either a

help people to understand is how they react to all the stress.”

When we are anxious, our body has a

stress response — like an alarm that goes

off. We are flooded with stress hormones. fight, flight, or freeze response, and it is

important to know which one you are so you can identify the response in your children.

3 Stress Responses: Fight- This would be aggressive behavior, both physical and verbal. In children,

this looks like talking back, name calling, becoming angry, and being enraged.

Flight- This would be avoidance behavior.

In children, this looks like procrastination, retreating to their room, or hiding under something.

| AUGUST 2020

going to bed and difficulty with transitions.

The spectrum of worry is broad, but Dr. Trotter hopes to ease some of that with

some advice for parents as we enter a new school year.

Helpful Tips to Reduce Stress and Anxiety:

• Increase the connection with your

children. Using mirror neurons, like

“if I yawn, you yawn,” helps to refocus the emotion. If you are calm, they tend to be calm.

• Be consistent. This creates

predictability and increases the

sense of control. Start with a bedtime routine, as most children respond to schedules.

• Provide boundaries. It provides

structure and guidance on what is acceptable. The structure equals safety.

“Parents are the most important thing to a child, no matter the situation,” Dr. Trotter said. “It is important as parents to first

Freeze- This would be detachment

know who you are, then you can respond

like shutting down and depression.

them navigate their own responses.”

behavior. In children, this looks

48 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE

a change in appetite.

appropriately to your children and help

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

AUGUST 2020 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE | 49

If You Can

DREAM IT He Can

MAKE IT

by Brooke Ezzo | photos courtesy of Christopher Lyle

H

e didn’t look like a magician. He needed a magician’s suit. Call it what you will, but when his grandmother purchased his first performance suit back in the 90s, it was either going to break him or make him. Luckily for us, the mustard yellow get-up and her maternal instinct made The Guy in the Yellow Suit a household name.

He also goes by Christopher Lyle, and he has been entertaining people with his comedic magic shows and balloon creations since his teenage years. After receiving his first magic set at the age of 7

and putting on shows for neighborhood kids, Christopher was hooked.

Growing up, he suffered from ADD and

an auditory processing defect; he didn’t comprehend information the same way

others did. He had trouble in school, but the one subject he could really dial into

was magic. He got his hands on as many

magic books as possible, and for whatever reason, those books just clicked for him.

“I felt pretty charged up that I was able to

interested in him if he also included

grown-ups couldn’t even do,” Christopher

“I wanted to work and get my magic

do something as a young kid that most

said. “It was empowering for me. I enjoyed being able to basically play around while blowing people away. That gave me a lot of confidence.”

out there, so I learned how to do a dog, a flower, and a sword. When I tried to book restaurants, and they asked if I did balloons, I was able to say, ‘Yes I

do,’” Christopher said. “It just grew from

performing for customers at local

were the only three balloons I could do.

restaurants. But booking magic gigs

were harder than he thought. It seemed

| AUGUST 2020

balloon art.

As he got older, he tried making his

way into the entertainment world by

50 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE

as though each owner was really only

there. I got tired of telling people these

Three decades later, I probably do more balloons than I do magic now.”

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

By the time Christopher rolled around to learning how to create balloon art, the niche was small but growing. He reached out to a few clowns in his area and read about basic twists and shapes from books.

But had to expand on his own from there.

Booked to perform at a magic convention in Las Vegas in the early 2000s, Christopher would have a chance meeting that would help propel his career forward.

Call it serendipitous because when Christopher met fellow performer, Buster Balloon, the pieces quickly fell into place.

“I didn’t know there was a balloon industry at that time,” Christopher said. “I basically hung out with the rock God of balloon artists for a week. It was a turning point for me because it really showed me what could be done with balloons.”

From simple twists to incredible masterpieces, Christopher has completed some remarkable balloon creations for his clients. This talent has come in handy these past few months, when not even Christopher could control the cards we were all dealt.

Christopher ran his business. But, it’s not about the cards; it’s how you play the hand. And, The Guy in the Yellow Suit would be the only one pulling tricks out of his hat.

Due to the shut downs and stay-in-place order, Christopher was no longer able

“BALLOON ART HAS TAKEN ME PLACES MAGIC WOULD HAVE NEVER BEEN ABLE TO TAKE ME.” to perform in restaurants, at parties, or for business events. So he stuck strictly to balloon creations. Not sure if it would be able to support him and his family, he

is loving it. Bringing smiles to people all over North Texas and creating some of the biggest and wildest balloon creations has given him a new kind of confidence.

“Balloon art has taken me places magic would have never been able to take me,” Christopher said. “If you can dream it, I can make it.”

Christopher lives in Justin with his wife, Jennifer, and their two daughters.

For your own balloon creation, follow Christopher Lyle on Facebook or visit his website, www.ChristopherLyle.com.

Christopher is serious about the safety and health of his clients. All balloons are manufactured in Dallas, sanitized, and delivered contact-free.

promoted balloon deliveries anyway.

Christopher is busier than he could have ever imagined, and the best part is that he

Like many other performers, the impact from the coronavirus changed the way

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

AUGUST 2020 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE | 51

What is The

EXCITEMENT OVER

LAKESIDE Village

by Steve Gamel | photo courtesy of Rebecca Everitt

52 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE

| AUGUST 2020

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

T

here is so much exciting change happening in and around Flower Mound. One of those is, of course, the highly-anticipated Lakeside Village development in south Flower Mound overlooking Grapevine Lake.

Rebecca Everitt, the project coordinator for Lakeside, confirmed that officials broke ground on the 35acre project in late June/early July and that all construction efforts are still on pace. Though everything is still very much in the infancy stages, the end result will be a mixed-use, walkable village complete with restaurants, an outdoor amphitheater, hotel and office space, a wedding chapel, high-end residences, and all the scenic lake views and trails you can ask for.

“Our vision has always been to allow the public to have access to this property, in the sense that you don’t have to spend a dime if you don’t want to on this development,” Everitt said. “You don’t have to buy a house, live in a tower, or eat at a restaurant to enjoy the lake views.

Of course, we want you to have those experiences, but we’ll have so many public amenities — the trail that’s going to be along the bluff where you have glimpses of the lake here and there, and the amphitheater where you can walk up and listen to a concert. I think our team has done a great job with that already with

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

the existing phases. It’s a glimpse into the future of Lakeside Village.”

Everitt said that while she’d love to spill the beans on which restaurants will be a part of Lakeside, it is simply too early in the process. Realty Capital first began planning for Lakeside Village roughly 10 years ago and saw it as an immediate destination spot in an area that already has so much to offer residents.

Since the groundbreaking ceremony, crews have been hard at work developing all the public infrastructure (streets, utilities, sidewalks, and various public amenities such as parks and trails). They recently received approval from the town to start on utilities, which is the next major step.

According to the Cross Timbers Gazette, infrastructure construction is anticipated to take 12 months to complete, with restaurants possibly opening in 2022.

“When we first started the discussion for Lakeside, we took a poll of residents, and everyone wanted restaurants on the lake. That was the No. 1 thing,” Everitt said. “And, of course, everyone wanted walkable amenities and quality development. That’s what we’ve been focused on.”

Everitt added, “We are excited about this project, and we can’t wait to be able to share more details.”

AUGUST 2020 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE | 53

Productivity Tips To Help

Make The Most of

Your Day

by Steve Gamel

E

veryone is looking for helpful hacks to help them be more productive and make the most out of their

day. The only problem is that when you’re living that busy life of kids, work, school, household chores, taking care of pets, errands, etc., it can be difficult to find even the smallest shred of downtime to start implementing them.

Well, now that the kids are back in school, hopefully, you can find a quiet spot in the middle part of your day and put a few of these helpful productivity tips to good use. Our favorite is No. 1, but keep

54 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE

| AUGUST 2020

reading to see what else is out there.

TO-DO LISTS ARE ALL THE RAGE

Don’t read emails or look at your phone

Having all your tasks for the day written

first thing in the morning

down is an effective productivity tool for

Many of us open our eyes in the morning and immediately start answering text messages, emails, checking social media, etc. While you think you are productive, this activity is keeping you from starting your day and will keep you in a constant state of catch-up. This is the time of day when our minds are clear and focused, and there’s less noise. So put down the phone and focus on how you want to attack the day.

the simple fact that it gives us structure.

Not only do we perform better and stay organized longer, but psychologically, there is a sense of accomplishment when at the end of the day, you see how much you crossed off your list.

EAT THAT FROG Instead of starting your day by knocking out a few easy tasks, start your day with the hardest or most dreaded one. If that

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

means baking three dozen cookies for your kids’ field trip, squeezing in that overdue 6-mile run, or taking part in a lengthy conference call, get it out of the way. By waiting, it leaves a dark cloud over your head all day long.

THERE’S AN APP FOR THAT We mentioned avoiding emails and texting first thing in the morning, and while that’s true, it’s still important to stay plugged in when you are on the go. There are plenty of productivity apps out there that can help you throughout the day, from checking your email on the go to digital calendars and the ability to sign and scan a document.

TAKE BREAKS As the old saying goes, “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.” We have so much going on in our lives, but it’s still important to take breaks to recharge the old batteries – even on our busiest days. Stand up and walk around for 10 minutes, take a 30-minute cat nap, go for a quick workout in the middle of the day, or even call a friend. When you do, you’ll return to your busy day refreshed mentally and physically.

DELEGATE If you’re a small-business owner, it can be difficult to “let go” and delegate tasks to an employee, spouse, or someone else.

But at some point, you have to realize you can’t do it all on your own. Even if you can do it all, you won’t get it all done the same day. Start by handing off smaller tasks to someone else, and once you build more confidence in that process, delegate a few more items.

What did we leave off the list that has worked for you? Let us know.

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

AUGUST 2020 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE | 55

56 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE

| AUGUST 2020

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com

AUGUST 2020 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE | 57

How To Incorporate This Year’s Leading Makeup Trend

by Contributing Writer

G

litter is making a comeback this year. From highlighting products to eyeshadows, you’ve probably noticed glitzy products adorning your favorite makeup aisle. Many women associate glitter with images of teenagers just starting out in their makeup journeys. However, you can pull off this trend at any age and virtually any occasion with the right techniques. Learn how to incorporate shimmering hues into your day-to-day routine below.

AVOID LOOSE GLITTER

ACCENT MATTE FINISHES

HIGHLIGHT YOUR CHEEKBONES

Loose glitter may be captivating but is best left on the store shelf. This is because it lacks an adhesive component that enables it to stick to the skin. As a result, you would need to mix it with a medium prior to applying it, making it both messy and time-consuming. Instead, reach for cream products containing glitter which are not only easy to apply but also long-lasting.

If you are a fan of matte eyeshadow or lipstick, try brightening up your look with a glitter eyeliner, lip topper, or multipurpose cream stick. Apply it sparingly along your top lash line to accentuate your eyes or top your favorite lip color with a glitterinfused topper or gloss to highlight your lips. Avoid overdoing it by choosing one feature to add a little sparkle too and leaving the rest of your look matte.

Highlighting products containing multidimensional glitter are not only eyecatching but also draw attention to your cheekbones. It’s best to reach for a liquid or cream highlighter containing medium to large flecks of glitter instead of powder formulas, which tend to look messy after a brief period of wear. Apply a small amount using a tapered contouring brush or petite sponge to make your cheekbones pop without overdoing it.

If you’ve been avoiding glitter due to work or other obligations, you can rest assured knowing that it can be easily incorporated into your look with these tips. Put this trend to the test by getting started today.

58 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE

| AUGUST 2020

www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com