Lantana Living Magazine April 2019

APRIL 19, 2019 - MAY 17, 2019

SUMMER CAMP

Activities IT’S HAIL

Season Y’all OLIVIA’S

WORKSHOP

FAITHFUL

Course TO THE

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

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APRIL 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 3

photos and info courtesy of Jessica Marr

T

hank you, PTA, for an amazing Fun Run today. The weather was perfect and our students ran with enthusiasm.

This day would not have been possible without our corporate sponsors. Camp Gladiator came to lead our students in warm ups before each group ran. Bach to Rock was our DJ today and provided upbeat music to keep us enthusiastically running. Lantana Community Church provided food for all of the volunteers.

Rapid Med provided water bottles for all of our students. Studio Art House was here to cheer our runners as they passed lap after lap. We want to offer a special thank you, to Mr. Tim Bean, who was our emcee for today. Please thank our sponsors as you are out and about.

We also want to thank Jessica Marr for her incredible leadership planning this wonderful experience for our students.

Jessica and her mighty team of volunteers were the reason this day ran so smoothly.

Thank you again!

The Game On winners for the most donations for K-2 was Mrs. Argo’s class.

The Game On winners for the most donations for 3-5 was Ms. Hunter’s class.

Our Family Donation winners were Olivia and Rachel Fowler. They received a Gaylord Water Park and Cabana gift pack.

Teachers who ran the most laps were Mrs. Becky Jones and Mrs. Courtney Branch.

They each received a massage!

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| APRIL 2019

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APRIL 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 5

LantanaLiving.com

Publisher & Editor Scott & Kelly Murray

Administration Managing Editor Jana Melton Sub-Editors Bobbi Byrne Emily Mitchell

Writers & Editor

Steve Gamel Barbara-Scott Kolb

Advertising

Kelly Murray Kelly@murray-media.com

Production

Art Director Liz Wallace Graphic Designers Caroline Brock Alyson Modene

Photography

Your Candid Memories 469.583.2819 yourcandidmemories.com

Mother’s Day:

Oh The Memories!

N

ow that Mother’s Day is almost here, I am reminded of a funny joke I usually play on my kids. Each year, I pull out the box of old cards, poems, and artwork and, while sitting at breakfast, chime in with, “These are a reminder of all the nice stuff you used to say about mommy!”

Naturally, their eyes get all big and wide, and they immediately start saying stuff

like, “Oh, mom, stop!” and “You know we still love you.” But I keep on reading in a cute mommy voice …

Letters

Lantana Living invites reader feedback, story suggestions and general comments.

Email artwork@murray-media.com.

All submissions become the sole

property of Murray Media Group.

Editorial and Advertising Inquiries call 972.899.3637 or email

artwork@murray-media.com www.murray-media.com

Address: 3513 Yucca Dr., Ste. 200 Flower Mound, TX 75028 Lantana Living 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. Lantana Living 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. © 2019 Murray Media Group

Like the card that says, “My mommy is pretty because she has striped hair.”

Or, “My mommy is the best mommy there is, and that’s all I have to say about that!”

My kids are so much older now, so the

entire charade embarrasses them a little

bit. In their defense, everything I do is just for show. I am incredibly blessed to be a

mom and wife, and I really do get treated like a Queen on Mother’s Day.

Not sometimes, or most of the time – but all of the time.

My husband, Scott, always goes out of his way to make sure I have the best gifts and even brings me breakfast in bed from time to time. The kids, no matter how fast they are growing up, are quick to make me the homemade stuff I adore so much – the poems, trinkets, and cards. I love those because it means they took the time to sit down, think about how much I mean to them, and create something from the heart.

I keep all of it. And yes, I still like to look back on them from time to time.

What are your favorite Mother’s Day memories? Reach out to us on social media and share photos or funny stories.

You never know, we may print some of them in the next issue.

Sincerely, Kelly Murray

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

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TABLE OF

CONTENTS The Real Estate

ISSUE

Learn your local real estate agents, as well as moving tips and packing tricks.

32

On the Cover: The Christman Family

FEATURED:

Faithful To The Course

ASK THE EXPERTS 14 Dentistry with Country Lakes Family Dental 18 Organizing with Cloud Nine Organizing 24 Edit This with Steve Gamel 36 Gardening with Complete Solutions 44 Fitness with Jesse James Fit 52 School Days with Valorie McGilvra 58 Counseling with Hopemead Counseling PHOTOS FROM LANTANA 04 Blanton Elementary Fun Run 11 Spring Break Family Fun Photos www.LantanaLiving.com

40

EDITORS PICK:

Summer Camp Activities

12 Spring Break Family Fun Photos Continued

22 Foodie Friday DFW with Jay Marks Real Estate

50 Spring Break Family Fun Photos Continued

26 Mother’s Day Dining Ideas

ARTICLES 08 Lesser Known Tips to Get Your House Ready to Sell 10 Inside Community 11 Inside Education 12 District 5-6A All-District Boys & Girls Basketball 2019 16 Swim Team Makes New Event Called Polar Plunge 20 Wildcats Look to Rebound After Another Season Suddenly Halts 21 Headache Triggers

28 Sheriff’s Corner with Sheriff Tracy Murphree 30 What is Cinco de Mayo?

34 Earth Day: What is It and How Can You Help?

42 Olivia’s Workshop 46 It’s Hail Season Y’all 50 Russell Webb, CCIM 54 Mother’s Day Gifts That Suit Her Love Language 56 12 Questions with Cassandra Homer 60 In A Land Far Away 62 Guyer Football APRIL 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 7

Real Estate Article

Lesser Known Tips to Get Your

HOUSE

READY to Sell T

here’s so much that goes into selling your home.

From finding the right realtor to deciding how much your house is worth, wading through purchase offers, setting up inspections, and getting items repaired or replaced, etc., all of it can feel like you are quickly being buried by one overwhelming task after the other.

It’s all going to work itself out – we promise. But don’t forget that perhaps THE most important task on that to-do list is getting your home ready for sale. You know, making sure everything looks its absolute best for the litany of home showings interested buyers will sign up for? If you’re using a lockbox, that means total strangers could be walking through every corner of your house at a moment’s notice – so it’s imperative that you create a warm, appealing atmosphere.

by Steve Gamel

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We scoured the Internet and found obvious tips to prepare your home for the market, including getting your carpets cleaned or replacing and repairing items that are broken, but here are some lesser-known strategies:

Declutter Your Entire Home OK, so this first one is obvious, too. But you’d be surprised how many people think picking everything up off the floor will do the trick. Decluttering means throwing away things you no longer use that may be taking up important “showing” space in a living area, closet, bedroom, or garage. Don’t get rid of everything, but the idea is that the less stuff there is to distract a potential buyer from falling in love with the house itself, the better.

Your home will look bigger and less busy as a result.

Give Your Pets a Vacation We all love our fur babies, but the shedding, the smells, the dog bowls, and even the cat yarn can make a home less than desirable in a hurry. Not to mention, keeping the home clean for multiple showings can be a chore if they are around. Consider boarding your pets or having them stay at a friend or relative’s house while your home is in showing mode.

Keep Up With The Laundry As we mentioned earlier in this article, you will likely have plenty of potential buyers in your home throughout the week, so it’s imperative to keep everything as tidy as possible during that time and beyond. That includes laundry, where a few full baskets or clothes still sitting inside the dryer can be an unpleasant site for some. A tip here is to fold and put items away each time you do a load of laundry, thus making the entire laundry experience less painful.

Tidy Up The Landscaping Everyone always focuses on the inside of their home, but curb appeal is just as important. Make sure your lawn, flower beds, and other landscaping is adequately maintained and eliminate any areas of overgrowth, broken branches, weeds, etc. If you have a gazebo or outside living area, make sure it is in peak condition for potential buyers to view.

Put White Towels in All The Bathrooms This goes along with the idea that your home and everything in it should be as neutral as possible (neutral paint, accent pieces, carpet and rugs, etc.). By staying neutral, you make everything easier to view, and nothing says clean and new like having white towels in all the bathrooms.

Consider Doing a Few Upgrades This is for those of you who may have lived in the same home for 20 or 30 years. Appliances can get outdated in a hurry, same with that shag carpet and older countertops that you never got around to changing out and can’t be prettied up anymore with a few spritzes of cleaning product. Buyers love to see upgrades wherever possible, especially with light fixtures, and it’s something your realtor will use as a selling point.

Keep All Your Lights on & Curtains Open Sure, your house will look like a fish bowl with everything on display but isn’t that the point when your house is on the market? Abundant light is not only inviting for guests, but it also gives the appearance that a space is bigger.

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Hire a Staging Company This is an excellent point since most homeowners quickly feel the tension and anxiety of getting their home prepped for the market. If you’ve done everything else and don’t know how else to improve the look and feel of your home, a local staging company can come in like a white knight and make some tweaks and adjustments – think new decor, new furniture, etc. – to make the entire home more buyer-friendly.

APRIL 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 9

INSIDE COMMUNITY LANTANA’S EARTH DAY EVENT

Sat., Apr. 27 | 9am - 12pm | North Amenity Center Lantana will be celebrating Earth Day at the North Amenity Center parking lot from 9am until noon. Residents may recycle electronics, drop off furniture and lawn equipment and much more. Residents will also be able to safely dispose of hazardous household waste items such as paint and old pesticides.

Come out and enjoy the sunshine and mingle with friends and family while participating in keeping the Earth green.

MUSIC ON THE GREEN Every Friday Night in May Families pack the Town Green with their blankets, baskets and coolers to enjoy an evening under the stars listening to their

favorite music by local country, pop, blue grass and rock n’ roll bands every Friday night in May.

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THE WALL THAT HEALS May 2 - 4 | Open 24 hours | Lewisville Lake Park 200 Lake Park Rd. • Lewisville, TX 75057

The City of Lewisville is proud to announce The Wall That Heals, the mobile three-quarter scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial (The Wall) in Washington, D.C. just west of the Bob Wiseman Soccer Complex at Lewisville Lake Park, 200 Lake Park Road. The Wall That Heals exhibit will be accompanied by the Mobile Education Center.

To learn more visit www.vvmf.org/twth.

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INSIDE EDUCATION photo courtesy of Rebecca Bonner Facebook page

REBECCA BONNER WEARS

HER STUDENTS ART Bonner, a teacher at Mcauliffe Elementary School in Highland Village got her students excited about art when she donned a dress with drawings created by hundreds of her students. She said that all she did was get fabric markers and sharpies and laid the dress out for two weeks letting her students doodle on it.

SPRING

BREAK Family Fun

DENTON PTA REFLECTIONS

AWARD CEREMONY Apr. 24 | at 6:30pm | Guyer High School 7501 Teasley Ln. • Denton, TX 76210

Hosted by Denton Community Council of PTAs and Guyer High School PTSA. The 2019 awards and celebration of our Reflections contest winners will be held in Guyer’s Commons area.

photo and info courtesy of Denton-Record Chronicles

HARMON AND WILSON

DOMINATED BASKETBALL Guyer seniors De’Vion Harmon and Jalen

Wilson entered the season as the only players in the Denton area either committed or signed to a Division I program. They both lived up to the hype surrounding their names by leading the

Wildcats to the 6A Region I final for the second straight year. This gained them the unanimous vote to being named as DRC all-area MVPs along with many other titles. Both posted a

career record of 125-16 across their four years. www.LantanaLiving.com

Photos were submitted by area residents. If you’d like to submit your photos for publication or if you have any questions please email us at artwork@murray-media.com.

APRIL 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 11

DISTRICT 5-6A

ALL-DISTRICT BOYS & GIRLS BASKETBALL 2019

Offensive Player of the Year:

Jillian Sowell, Southlake Carroll

Defensive Player of the Year:

Brittney Bolin, Trophy Club Nelson Co-Newcomer of the Year: Alisa Williams, Guyer

Co-Newcomer of the Year:

Jade Masogayo, Keller Fossil Ridge Coach of the Year: Kate Goldberg, Keller

BOYS BASKETBALL 2019 Co-MVP: De’Vion Harmon, Guyer Jalen Wilson, Guyer

Co-Offensive Player of the Year: JaKobe Coles, Guyer

Brandon Haddock, Southlake Carroll Defensive Player of the Year:

Zach Novitske, Trophy Club Nelson Newcomer of the Year: Jesse Iweze, Nelson

FIRST TEAM

Tyler Mcghie, Guyer

Lattrell Jossell, Keller Central Jonathan Zapinski, Carroll Preston Hannah, Keller Jordyn Vicente, Keller Timber Creek Nico Matheus, Nelson Jason Makayabo, Nelson

FIRST TEAM

Emma Taylor, Keller Cambridge Matthews, Keller Jadyn Fife, Keller Fossil Ridge Sydney McQuietor, Keller Claire Reynolds, Southlake Carroll Jordyn Sowell, Southlake Carroll Jade Thompson, Guyer

Austin Garner, Nelson

Callie Boyles, Guyer

GIRLS BASKETBALL 2019

Mia Topping, Keller Timber Creek

MVP: Mele Kailahi, Keller Timber Creek

Bella Earle, Guyer

Hunter Roach, Trophy Club Byron Nelson

SPRING BREAK

Family Fun

Photos were submitted by area residents.

If you’d like to submit your photos for publication or if you have any questions please email us at artwork@murray-media.com.

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| APRIL 2019

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APRIL 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 13

Ask The Expert: Dentistry

integrating with digital impressions for preplanned surgically-guided dental

THE HIGH-TECH

DENTAL EXPERIENCE

H

ave you ever been in a social situation where you just did not fit in? Like showing up to a costume party, only it’s not a costume party, or maybe one of those functions with your significant other where you don’t know anyone? Of course, my wife’s advice to me is always the same, “Don’t try to be charming, witty, or fun … instead, just be yourself.”

implant placement.

On the subject of digital impressions, most dental procedures currently

can utilize digital impressions in ways that allow for a more comfortable

and convenient experience without trays or goopy material. Integrating digital impressions with certain 3D

software and milling lathes allows for

same-day fabrication of dental crowns and bridges, preventing the use of

temporary crowns and long waits for

dental labs. Digital impressions can also

be used for orthodontic applications like

digital bracket placement or clear aligner

orthodontics like Invisalign®. Additionally, digital impression eliminates variables of

distortion, ensuring a more accurate fit of restorations and orthodontic appliances.

The advent of digital technology is improving the overall dental

experience, creating a more accurate,

more predictable, and more comfortable Well, writing a dental article in an issue dedicated to “real estate” is much the same. So, instead of trying to suffer making a dental link to “real estate,” I will instead discuss some “real state-of-the-art” advances in dentistry.

realities in radiology advances, not only in

These days, most are aware of the novel technology of digital x-rays with their minimal amounts of detected radiation and the ability to view in an instant.

However, one of the most amazing

is becoming a standard for streamlining

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| APRIL 2019

specialist offices but in general practices, as well, is the accessibility to digital

3-dimensional radiographs. Once an

incredibly expensive and difficult piece of equipment, cone beam radiography advanced dental procedures. Its use

can vary from identifying pathology to tracing the intricate canals of a tooth root structure before a root canal, to

treatment. If you have not yet encountered these advances,

you’re in for a “real state” of delight.

Happy Smiling!

by Dr. Matt Artho owner of Country Lakes Family Dental CountryLakesDental.com

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APRIL 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 15

SWIM TEAM MAKES NEW EVENT CALLED

POLAR PLUNGE

by Steve Gamel

D

oes anyone feel like taking a dip

Officials for both the swim team and HOA

Heuer said she hopes more people take

winter? If you’re one of the many

become an annual event.

team is already turning its focus to the

in the pool in the middle of the

who wouldn’t dream of doing such a crazy thing, members of the Lantana Lightning

swim team have this to say: “Don’t knock it until you try it.”

The swim team, which is heading into its 16th year and offers competitive

swimming for kids ages 5-18, teamed up with the neighborhood HOA on

February 2 to host its first Polar Plunge.

The community-wide event was all in the

name of fun and saw roughly 50 plungers, both kids and adults, sign up to swim in 40 to 50-degree weather.

As part of the festivities, prizes were belly flop and best cannonball.

“We definitely want to have more events like this in the future,” said Julie Heuer,

a board member for the swim team. “It was the first year doing something like

this, so we didn’t know what to expect.

the plunge next year, but admitted the

upcoming season. Registration for 2019

began April 1 for returning swimmers and April 8 for new families. Meets typically

run between June and July. To join, there are a few rules, including being able to

There was a pretty good turnout, though.”

swim 25 yards and that the swimmer is a

Besides the 50 participants, several dozen

part of a group called Swim North Texas.

residents showed up at the south pool to

resident of Lantana. Lantana Lightning is

support the swimmers during the nearly

This group, while it is a chance for kids

was about. Big blocks of ice and various

being a part of a team, is also a chance for

HOA also hosted a s’mores station while

making new friends.

two-hour event and see what all the fuss

to learn structure and the importance of

decorations surrounded the pool; the

kids to learn a few new tricks while also

the golf club provided hot cocoa. Lantana Lightning coaches were on hand, as were

several lifeguards to help warm swimmers

photos courtesy of Julie Gibbs

awarded in competitions for the best

hope that with your help, Polar Plunge can

up once they exited the pool.

“We sent people in waves of eight to 10

swimmers. We were initially thinking about putting the blocks of ice in the pool, but

people were swimming the length of the

pool, and we didn’t want anyone jumping

in on a big block of ice,” Heuer said with a

laugh. “It was cold outside, but it wasn’t so

If you are interested in having your child

Everyone had fun.”

their website at www.teamunify.com.

cold that people were leaving right away.

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| APRIL 2019

be a part of the Lantana Lightning, visit

www.LantanaLiving.com

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APRIL 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 17

Ask The Expert: Organizing

THE

JUNK DRAWER I

s junk taking up valuable real estate in your home? If you are like most American families you probably

have at least one drawer full of junk.

We commonly refer to this as the junk drawer.

You don’t need a junk drawer.

You need a utility drawer.

How to easily turn your overstuffed

junk drawer into a useful utility drawer: •

Pull everything out of your

•

Sort everything into two piles –

This is the drawer where homeless items

go to live. The drawer where odd gadgets go to die. The drawer we shove things

into when company visits. The junk drawer

can’t find it!

It’s totally fine to have a catchall drawer for handy, useful items, but let’s talk

useful & not useful. Get rid of all the

not useful items immediately. In other

might also have valuable stuff you could one day use, but never do because you

junk drawer(s).

words, get rid of all the junk.

•

Sort your useful items: group all

•

Pay attention to how many similar

similar items together.

about how to make better use of that junk

items you have. If you have duplicates,

and of little value. Utility items, on the

do you really need 50 black Sharpies?

drawer. Junk, by definition, is useless

consider downsizing. For instance,

other hand, are useful and beneficial.

Probably not.

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| APRIL 2019

•

Either use drawer organizers or narrow/shallow boxes to contain your useful items.

•

If necessary, label containers so everyone knows where everything belongs.

FUN FACT: While helping clients declutter their junk drawers I find money 100% of the time. Start clearing out those junk drawers to see what kind of treasures you have forgotten about!

by Crystal Nerpel Cloud Nine Organizing Cloudnineorganizing.com

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APRIL 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 19

WILDCATS Look To

REBOUND AFTER ANOTHER SEASON

SUDDENLY HALTS

by Steve Gamel

G

uyer boys basketball coach Grant Long tried his best to maintain composure as he exited the

locker room last month at Wilkerson-

Greines Activity Center in Fort Worth.

On the one hand, he was incredibly

proud of his players – but he was also consumed with sadness.

For the second year in a row,

the Wildcats did all they could to make

it to the pinnacle of high school basketball – the UIL state tournament in San Antonio – only to fall short by one game.

The game lived up to the hype as both juggernauts traded blows for four-plus quarters. Guyer led for most of the game but never could build more than an eightpoint lead in the first half. The Panthers cobbled together a late surge to take a four-point lead into the fourth quarter.

By that point, it was clear the game was far from over. Guyer rallied to force overtime and nearly pushed double overtime before missing two free throws in the final 2.9 seconds of overtime.

“ THE BALL JUST DIDN’T BOUNCE OUR WAY...”

Another magical

season cut short.

“I’m super proud of the guys, but

also heartbroken

It was Duncanville’s second win over Guyer this year, though clearly by the slimmest of margins.

over the result,”

Long said after their 66-62 overtime loss to Duncanville

in the Class 6A

Region I final on March 2.

The marquee matchup was billed as 20 | LANTANA LIVING

a showdown of epic proportions between the top two teams in the state.

“They fought so hard. I’m very proud.”

| APRIL 2019

“The ball just didn’t bounce our way,” Long said.

While the sadness over the rough end to

this season will linger for a while, Long has worked hard over the years to make sure his program bounces back every year.

Including this year, the Wildcats are an eye-popping 125-16 since 2016.

One of the biggest reasons for that

success has been a healthy combination of Division I level talent and plenty of

depth behind them. But that will all be

challenged this offseason as Long tries to

replace arguably the strongest senior class in school history. Both De’Vion Harmon

(Oklahoma) and Jalen Wilson (Michigan) will graduate, leaving guys like big man

JaKobe Coles and all-around knockdown

shooter Tyler McGhie to shoulder the load.

Long didn’t seem concerned by the upcoming changing of the guard.

“I’m proud of our program, the culture, and the family atmosphere we have

built,” Long said. “I hate that we weren’t able to take the next step that we’ve

been talking about. We’re just going to continue to work to try and do everything we can [next year].”

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Lantana Resident

HEADACHE

Triggers

•

Enforce regular bedtimes, even for teens

•

Don’t allow kids or teens to use screens an hour before bed

•

Encourage regular physical activity to help relieve stress and anxiety

by Dr. Rebecca Butler, Board Certified in Pediatrics by the American Board of Pediatrics

•

Use stress management techniques to reduce anxiety and stress

•

Ensure kids eat healthy foods and do not skip meals

•

Give kids a reusable water

•

Keep a headache journal including activities and foods before the headache starts to identify triggers

•

Teach kids the importance of wellness, including healthy diet, regular exercise and quality sleep

H

eadaches in children of all ages may be more common than you think. Often, a child’s headaches

are incorrectly thought to be related

to sinus or vision problems, frequently

delaying treatment. Because young kids may not be able to communicate what’s

puberty. These headaches may be cyclical, occurring around the same time in the girl’s menstrual cycle.

bottle to keep with them to prevent dehydration

avoid light or noise, or just want to lie

down when they develop a headache.

Kids can get the same types of headaches

•

MSG

•

Tyramine

HOW TO TREAT HEADACHES IN KIDS

•

Nitrates

and vomiting

•

Sulfites

Tension headaches, which may

•

Caffeine

When your child does have a headache, you can likely treat it with over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen, rest, water, and a healthy snack. If headaches are severe, you may need to see your physician for prescription medicines for your child’s headaches.

as adults, including: Reference: www.healthychildren.org

Hormonal changes: Headaches caused by hormonal changes are more likely in teen or pre-teen girls who are going through

Certain foods: Certain food additives, especially in processed foods, are common headache triggers. These additives may include:

wrong, you may notice they stop playing,

Sponsored Content

When eating or sleeping patterns are thrown off, it may cause headaches or make them more frequent. These tactics may be helpful for preventing headaches:

•

•

Migraines, which cause moderate to severe pain and often nausea

be related to tight muscles and increased stress

•

Cluster Headaches or frequent

episodes of intense pain around an eye that can occur over many days

•

Chronic daily headaches that occur on at least 15 days of the month

It’s important to know how to recognize the different types of headaches.

Knowing what type of headache your

child is suffering from and what is causing that headache can help you treat it and prevent it from occurring in the future.

COMMON HEADACHE TRIGGERS Many children experience headaches after being exposed to a trigger.

By avoiding or recognizing triggers, you

can help stop headaches before they start.

The most common triggers include:

Stress: Just like in adults, stress can cause headaches in children. Children may feel pressure to perform in school or sports, which can cause stress. Stress can also keep kids from taking care of their bodies, leading to headaches.

Anxiety: Children who experience anxiety and depression tend to have more headaches than other children. These conditions can be treated with cognitive behavioral therapy and medicines.

Sleep deprivation: Sleep deprivation affects many aspects of a child’s health, even causing headaches. It works the other way around as well – headaches that wake children from sleep cause sleep deprivation. Consult your child’s physician if headaches are interrupting sleep.

HOW TO PREVENT HEADACHES IN KIDS

If your child’s headaches wake them up, cause vomiting, or prevent them from functioning in school, you should see your child’s physician to help uncover the cause of and treat headaches and migraines.

940.455.7200 www.LantanaPediatrics.com 74 McMakin Rd., Ste. 100 Bartonville, TX 76226 Mon, Tues, Thurs: 7:30am-5pm Wed: 7:30am - 12:30pm • Fri: 7:30am - 4pm Sat: 9am - 12pm

Foodie Friday DFW: Seven Loaves Catering & Events

SEVEN LOAVES Catering & Events “It’s not a miracle, we just work really hard.”

T

hat’s the motto of local catering company, Seven Loaves Catering & Events, owned and operated

by Phillip and Leslie Smithwick and their family.

We’ve known the Smithwicks for years, and have even utilized their catering

services for some open house events

over the years in our real estate business.

They are one of the hardest-working,

kindest families in town. And in addition to their abundance of delicious food options for your events, that’s what makes them so successful.

and you can count on as many things

being made-from-scratch as possible.

So, Phillip and Leslie, will you adopt us?!

And as we mentioned before,

that’s why they are so successful

at what they do! The day we were there, we counted 35 catering orders on their

production wall - with events like breakfast for their corporate clients, weddings, parties, and more.

So, the question you may now be asking

is, what areas of DFW does Seven Loaves cater? And the answer is... pretty much anything. Especially now that so many

While we were in their kitchen,

wedding venues are popping up on the

make no less than six completely

you have a need, give them a call and

menu. Everything from stroganoff that

Moral of the story is, no matter what kind

we witnessed Phillip and his team

outskirts of the Metroplex, Phillip says if

different kinds of food from their catering

they’ll figure out if they can make it work!

will remind you of your grandmother’s

to brisket tacos to a stunning peach and chipotle glazed chicken.

of event you have going on, and no matter what kind of food you want to serve, give Seven Loaves Catering & Events a call

And just about everything Seven Loaves

to help you out. You will absolutely love

kitchen. Down to the tortilla and potato

your guests will swoon over the food!

caters is made from-scratch in their

working with the Smithwick family and

972.293.5111 SevenLoavesCatering.com 1305 S. Highway 121, Suite 400 Lewisville, TX 75067

chips they serve on the side. (Heck, even

the seasoning that goes on the tortilla and potato chips is made-from-scratch!)

Phillip told us he wants their catering

clients to feel like they’re getting a little taste of what it’s like in the Smithwick

home. You’ll never eat the same thing over and over again, you’ll never leave hungry,

972.724.2540 | JayMarksRealEstate.com jay@jaymarksrealestate.com 1013 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 102 | Flower Mound, TX 75022

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APRIL 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 23

Ask The Expert: Edit This

Remembering THE GOOD OLD DAYS

O

ne of my favorite things to do as a professional writer is to use my talents to chronicle the time I spend with my family, especially my boys. Take my oldest, for example. Christian has always had an intense love for baseball, and I’ve always done my best to be there for him and teach him as much as I can.

While looking through some of my older columns, I came across the piece below, which I wanted to share again. I wrote this not even four years ago when he could barely catch. Now he’s on a select team in Argyle. It’s crazy how fast our little tikes grow up.

I’ve been told a time or two – or three

And it only took me getting hit in the head

there. I used to think those who noticed

turn my glove the right way. If you use two

– that I’m not the most patient guy out it, like my beautiful wife, were crazy.

That is until I began teaching our oldest

by a pop up once to remember always to

hands, watch it all the way in and squeeze that glove, there’s no reason to be afraid

son to play baseball.

of the ball.

At that point, I realized, wow!

Why I couldn’t get that through my son’s

Ridiculously impatient.

it’s not because he’s not athletic enough.

In my defense, it’s not easy teaching

say he’s not consistent yet – specifically

She was right. I am impatient.

baseball. I love the game, but I never really felt like a good coach. Nothing

I said seemed to sink in – even though

I was teaching the right things. For me, it was the most frustrating experience.

It shouldn’t have been. But it was.

My father, who in my book will always be the most knowledgeable sports guy and

coach, made teaching me and my brother look effortless. That’s not to suggest

he turned us into major-league caliber

players, but we were pretty darn good.

head was beyond me. Trust me when I say He’s a very good baseball player. Let’s just with fielding. Even at eight years old, we’d started using the phrase,

“two hands would have caught it” during each practice session.

To no avail. My frustration level was at its peak.

But last month, we had a breakthrough.

It was my birthday, and all I wanted to

do was play catch with my son. The first

thing he said to me before we got started was, “Daddy, I’m not going to drop the ball this time.”

He didn’t. It was the most amazing thing.

He got “baseball ready” and scooped up every hard grounder, slow roller, trick hop, fastball and pop up I could toss. He was like a human vacuum cleaner.

And just like that, the game I loved -which due to my own impatience had grown frustrating -- was fun. And my son was having fun.

I remember standing there next to my wife, surprised that after 20 minutes he hadn’t dropped a single ball. At the end, he came up to me and asked how he did.

“How you did?” I said. “You were perfect.

I’m so proud of you.” His smile said it all ... be patient old man. You are doing the right thing.

by Steve Gamel Edit This 469.360.3611 EditThisLLC.com

www.LantanaLiving.com

APRIL 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 25

Mother’s DINING IDEAS

I

by Steve Gamel

f you’re looking for dining options for Mother’s Day, there are a variety of local favorites and hidden gems throughout Denton County. Below are just a few.

Marty B’s 940.241.3500 • 2664 FM 407 E., Bartonville, TX 76226 Not a fancy type of family? Not a problem. Marty B’s is the perfect place for a more casual-family style dinner. It’s a more lively, family-friendly joint offering updated BBQ eats & a big outside area with fire pits & games. This is a great place to take the whole family for Mother’s Day.

PRIME FARM TO TABLE

Shoal Creek Tavern 972.317.2250 • 1701 Shoal Creek Dr., Highland Village, TX 75077 This is just an all-around great restaurant. It’s casual, it’s fun, and the food is fantastic. For those still sticking to their New Year’s resolution, Jesse James Fit has his own JJ mark on the menu with dishes that he recommends to stay on track.

Start with the smoked Old Fashioned.

SHOAL CREEK TAVERN

Prime Farm to Table 972.539.1902 • 5810 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. #200, Flower Mound, TX 75028 Tucked away in the plaza behind Compass Bank, this hidden gem has food that is not only upscale, but very unique. The menu is created daily depending on what is fresh from the local farmers, so your food choices are always different and fabulous.

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www.LantanaLiving.com

photos courtesy of each restaurants Facebook page

DAY

Marty B’s

Verf’s Grill and Tavern 972.317.3390 • 2221 Justin Rd., Flower Mound, TX 75028 The extensive menu at Verf’s carries everything from steak and seafood to pasta and enchiladas and all of it is scrumptious. They also carry a full bar and a long list of wines. It’s a meal you won’t soon forget!

VERF’S GRILL AND TAVERN

Bistecca Steakhouse 972.318.0515 • 2300 Highland Village Rd., Lewisville, TX 75077 This is the perfect place for a romantic dinner, with both indoor and outdoor seating. The food is delicious, serving everything from steaks to pasta, and the service is impeccable.

BISTECCA STEAKHOUSE www.LantanaLiving.com

APRIL 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 27

SHERIFF ’S

CORNER with Sheriff Tracy Murphree

T

DENTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE MISSION

he mission of the Denton County Sheriff’s Office is to provide services which exceed the public safety expectations of the citizens of Denton County, and in doing so, we will provide the most cost-effective, accountable, progressive, and professional law enforcement services possible to diligently ensure the safety and security of our communities and roadways for the citizens and public at-large who live, visit, work and do business in Denton County.

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| APRIL 2019

The mission of the Denton County Sheriff’s Office is to provide services which exceed the public safety expectations of the citizens of Denton County, and in doing so, we will provide the most cost-effective, accountable, progressive, and professional law enforcement services possible to diligently ensure the safety and security of our communities and roadways for the citizens and public at-large who live, visit, work and do business in Denton County.

ATTENTION THE DENTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE IS NOW HIRING DETENTION OFFICERS. Detention Officers are responsible for overseeing individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting trial or who have been sentenced to serve time in a secured facility. This is a fast-paced work environment where you can make a difference. Detention Officer I position starts at $37,623 per year + benefits, with pay increases for prior experience and education.

Join our family and be a part of a great organization!

Apply online at www.governmentjobs. com/careers/dentoncounty 940.349.1600 127 N.WOODROW LN., SUITE 300 DENTON, TX 76205 DENTONCOUNTY.COM/DEPARTMENTS/SHERIFF.ASPX

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APRIL 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 29

What is Cinco de Mayo?

by Susan Neuhalfen

C

inco de Mayo (or May 5), a national holiday in Mexico and drinking holiday in the U.S., celebrates the victory of a small Mexican militia over the French army three times its size and much better equipped for battle. Though not a major victory,

the victory at Battle of Puebla was a huge moral victory for Mexico, proving they could defend their country and eventually force the French to withdrawal.

We are happy, of course, because being a border state we have become slaves to their food and Margaritas. Here are a few recipes that you can make this May 5th memorable as we toast the underdogs.

LIZ’S CARNE ASADA GREEN CHILE RICE

(MMG employee authentic family recipe) Ingredients

AVOCADO MARGARITAS (recipe from Curra’s Grill in Austin) Ingredients •

2 C. crushed ice

•

6 oz Tequila of your choice

•

1 avocado, peeled, pitted and sliced

•

2 oz triple sec

•

4 oz lime juice

•

pinch of cilantro

•

salt

Put ice, tequila, avocado, triple sec, lime juice and cilantro in a blender until smooth. Serve with or without kosher salt on the rim. Yields 4 servings.

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(courtesy of MMG’s resident California brand of Mexican - her words, not ours) Ingredients •

5 lb (1 lb per person usually) of thin sliced Beef Steaks

2 cups chicken broth

•

4 lb bag of oranges

3 whole, fresh roasted green chiles, skinned and chopped OR 1 (4 oz.) can chopped green chiles

•

Chef Merito Carne Asada Seasoning

•

1 large glass pan to hold/marinate meat in

•

Outdoor grill

•

1 ½ cups cooked rice

• •

•

½ teaspoon salt

•

½ teaspoon garlic salt

•

½ teaspoon ground pepper

•

1 ½ cups Monterey Jack Cheese (can substitute with Pepper Jack Cheese), shredded

•

1 cup Cheddar Cheese, shredded

•

1 cup Sour Cream

Mix Monterey Jack cheese, seasoned cooked rice, sour cream and green chile.

Lay in 8x10 pan. Add layer of Cheddar Cheese. Sprinkle the top with Paprika.

Cover with foil and bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes.

Uncover and bake for 5 more minutes.

Cut oranges in half then set aside to use later. Take out a slice of steak and place it in the glass pan. Squeeze orange half over one side then shake the steak seasoning over the meat. Flip and then drench the other side with more orange juice and shake the seasoning on it. Take out another slice of steak then repeat the process over the already drenched piece underneath it. Marinate until the all of the meat is in the pan. If you have any orange halves left, squeeze over the meat. If you want extra orange flavor you can grate some of the rind over the meat. Cover and let marinate for 2-4 hours. Grill and enjoy with corn or flour tortillas! www.LantanaLiving.com

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APRIL 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 31

FAITHFUL TO THE

Course

by Steve Gamel

CHRISTMAN ATTORNEYS IS A BOUTIQUE, FAITH-BASED FIRM LOCATED IN HIGHLAND VILLAGE. IT IS KNOWN FOR TACKLING BUSINESS ISSUES

L

eave it to a lawyer to still have the physical evidence that proves exactly when he knew what he wanted to do for a living.

Sponsored Content photography by Your Candid Memories (YourCandidMemories.com)

Drew Christman was just a secondgrader when, along with the rest of his classmates, he was asked to make an aspirational book out of a stack of construction paper. The book was only a few pages thick, and each child used scissors to cut theirs into the shape of themselves. On one of his pages, young Drew wrote that he wanted to be a lawyer – and eventually the President of the United States.

“I knew all Presidents were lawyers at one time in their careers,” said Drew, now the Managing Partner of Christman Attorneys, PLLC. “If I wanted to make a difference, I figured that’s where I should start.”

His desire to be the President has mellowed over time – Drew joked he wouldn’t even want to be mayor. But he’s been faithful to the course with his dream of being an attorney. Each step was purposeful, and his resolve never wavered even as the road to success turned out to be more challenging than the one he built up in his ambitious second-grade mind.

“Law school was hard work, but this is what I’ve always enjoyed doing,” Drew said.

employee relationships and disputes,

attorney who currently serves as special

compete and confidentiality suits, and

Chief Counsel at the American Center

to fraud, commercial real estate, non-

more. The firm was voted Best Business Law Firm by Best of Denton County

voters and is equally skilled at cases

involving family law, entertainment law, and lawsuit mediation.

We could say more about the firm, but

there’s something to be said for learning

about the family behind its success. After all, people do business with people, and there’s certainly a lot to like about Drew

and his loving wife of 22 years, Clarissa.

As one of their many stories go, Drew,

a native of Sherman, and Clarissa,

who grew up in Grand Prairie, met when they were

undergrads at Texas A&M. But because

Drew was a freshman at the time (Clarissa was a junior), she

wanted nothing to

do with him.

“I shunned him,” Clarissa

said. “It was an immature way

to handle it, but that’s what I did.”

“It must have been that freshman stink on

me,” Drew said with a laugh. “She wouldn’t return my calls … nothing.”

counsel to President Trump and as the

for Law and Justice, had an office on the

fourth floor of the university. Drew wanted to work for him and immediately offered

to be a volunteer on the first day of school.

That proactive mindset quickly opened a lot of doors for Drew, who spent a great

deal of time studying into the wee hours of the night, going to school by day,

and volunteering his time as a law clerk.

He got his big break as an Assistant

Attorney General of Alabama under the honorable William Pryor and spent the next 10 years in Alabama.

“I had never been to Alabama before, let alone live there,” Drew joked.

“But there we were.”

He made the most of that time, gaining extensive experience in constitutional litigation, administrative prosecution,

and general civil litigation. After 10 years, which included transitioning into running his own practice handling business

litigation, the Christmans moved back to Texas and settled down with a new practice in Denton County.

“You never know what that course is going to look like until you get into it,” Clarissa

A year later, the two crossed paths at

said. “There were a lot of sacrifices for

change of heart. They were officially an

appreciated about Drew is his strong

in 1996, they were married by that July.

he’s steady or not. He’s very purposeful

a Bible study lunch and Clarissa had a

the both of us, but one thing I’ve always

item, and following Drew’s graduation

convictions. I’ve never had to wonder if

A month after that, they moved to Virginia

and faithful to the course.”

That conviction and entrepreneurial spirit is a big reason why he’s quickly become the go-to counsel for small-business owners and corporations all over Denton County and beyond – all of whom have big dreams of their own.

so Drew could attend Regent University

Christman Attorneys is a boutique, faithbased firm located in Highland Village.

It is known for tackling business issues, such as simple business formation and

that Drew was dead-set on becoming an

School of Law. Together, they have two boys, Justus and Austin, and are both

actively involved in The Village Church and the local community.

Clarissa could see from the beginning

Today, Drew and Clarissa have built a

solid team with a reputation for predicting potential problems in a company’s path and offering sound solutions that work.

It’s par for the course for Drew, who always knows which direction he is headed.

attorney, and he didn’t rest on his laurels

“I wouldn’t change anything,” Drew said.

Regent because he knew Jay Sekulow, an

has been the biggest reward.”

once he got to law school. He chose

“And being on this journey with Clarissa

972.445.9907 | www.ChristmanAttorneys.com | 2570 Justin Rd., Ste. 240 | Highland Village, TX 75077

EARTH Day What Is It And How Can You Help?

by Steve Gamel

E

arth Day is on April 22 this year.

Depending on when you read this article, you either still have

time to get involved in your unique

way or the entire day snuck by once

again, and now you’re kicking yourself for not remembering.

Don’t be hard on yourself; the good news

•

Start educating your children on the

•

Plant a tree

next year’s event rolls around.

•

Attend an Earth Day event

•

•

Give up chewing gum

efficient versions

•

Create art from recyclable materials

•

Plant a vegetable or herb garden

•

Declutter your home and closets.

•

Shop at a local farmers market

•

Go on a beach clean up

•

Build a bird feeder or birdhouse in

•

When possible, walk or bike to work

•

Eat less meat

practical activities you should be doing.

If you missed it, start taking action now.

Because who knows, maybe our world

will be in an even better place by the time Change your lightbulbs to energy

is there is always next year. And besides,

•

Speaking of lightbulbs, do a

While Earth Day has become a global

•

Go on a hike or to the park to get in

why wait?

phenomenon – earthday.org estimates more than 1 billion people in 192

complete home-energy audit touch with nature

•

Use reusable water bottles, coffee

world – it is still ONE day on the calendar.

•

Fix leaky faucets or constantly

important day for our environment,

•

Volunteer your time to an

countries now take part in what is the

largest civic-focused day of action in the Don’t get us wrong, it is still a very

but all the planting of trees, cleaning up towns and roads, and meeting

with elected officials to demand more resources and sustainability initiatives

So if you’re reading this and earth day hasn’t happened yet, here are a few 34 | LANTANA LIVING

| APRIL 2019

running toilets in your home or work organization that tries to make the world a better place

•

Start washing your laundry with

•

Help start an initiative to make

should really be at the forefront of our consciousness each and every day.

cups, and shopping bags

cold water

your workplace more

environmentally friendly

importance of recycling

Donate to charity where possible

your backyard

rather than use your car

Did we miss anything on our list?

Connect with us on social media and start a conversation. Remember that whether

today is Earth Day or not, this is our only planet. Let’s protect it, and it will surely protect us for generations to come.

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APRIL 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 35

Ask The Expert: Gardening

The Secret To

B

GREEN GRASS

ipolar weather patterns with a little rain and sinus infections in full forceSPRING IS HERE. Being one of the

most transitional times of the year here in North Texas, there’s a long list of things

to do if you’re trying to keep up with the

grass thinning and dying out. If you can’t

remember or are new to the property, the quickest way to tell if it’s time to aerate is

by sticking a knife down into the ground.

If it stops 1.5-2.5” down, then call your

property maintenance yourself. We are

grass guy, if it goes further, then you’re

it comes to your grassy areas in this article.

Watering

going to highlight some key points when

probably good for another year.

Aeration

A good rule of thumb is to ensure your

that you aerate every third year at a

water per week. Obvious water restrictions

soil to get hard, cutting off the amount of

into account. If you have not done so,

With our terrible North Texas soils, ensure

grassy areas get on average 1 inch of

minimum. Not doing so will allow the

and weather conditions should be taken

nutrients and oxygen and resulting in your

NOW is the time to get the irrigation

system on and evaluated. Broken pipes, busted heads and/or clogged nozzles can all lead to under or over watering.

Either direction will have a negative result on your yard space.

Fertilization Another way to ensure your grass is thick and healthy this season is to establish a fertilization schedule and stick to it. Being consistent with this CAN offer immediate results BUT more often will take a few treatments before you really see improvements.

Being realistic with your goals and paying more for quality products are two things to keep in mind. Typically, cheaper chemicals will not treat as well and will wear out a lot faster than a name brand product with a slower release schedule.

by PJ Kratohvil of Complete Solutions completesolutionsdfw.com

www.LantanaLiving.com

APRIL 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 37

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APRIL 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 39

by Barbara-Scott Kolb

S

ummer is just around the corner! Are you looking for some fun camps that will keep your kids active —physically, mentally and spiritually?

The J Ranch Summer Camp

Tri-Sharks Training

The J Ranch in Roanoke is offering Monday through Thursday camp sessions throughout the summer! Your child will learn and practice both Western and English riding, as well as how to saddle and properly care for a horse.

Whether your child is a seasoned rider or just starting out with horses, J Ranch provides a learning experience for everyone on a beautiful piece of property.

Is your little athlete itching to compete in a triathlon, but could use some practice? Tri-Sharks offers a fun, dynamic program for kids 7 and over, designed to educate and train those interested in participating in a multi-sport competition. Beginning in June, sign your kids up to spend Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at the Lantana North Amenity Center to start triathlon training!

Visit trisharkscoaching.com for more information.

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Hoop Hunter Basketball Summer Camps The Hoop Hunter facility in Roanoke is the place to be for kids entering 1st grade all the way through high school who want to work on their game and compete with other ball players.

Camps are high-intensity for those dedicated to improving their craft and preparing for the next level of competition; sessions begin May 28th and runs throughout the summer.

Visit hoophunter.com to sign up for one or all of the available skills camps and watch your child raise their basketball IQ and have fun competing with other athletes with shared goals.

Summer Camp at Briarwood Briarwood is an outdoor ministry dedicated for children of all ages to join in fellowship, as they learn about Christ and his Creation.

Along with Bible studies and worship services, kids will also enjoy activities such as archery, obstacle courses, fishing, swimming and much more. Kids will spend time with animals, compete in outdoor games, and end the day by the campfire. While connecting with God, your child will make lifelong friendships; overnight camps and day camps are available. Briarwood is located at 670 Copper Canyon Road in Argyle.

New Song School of the Arts Summer Camps Parents, are you searching for a summer program for your artist or musician? Whether your kid wants to learn about the art of acting, musical theatre production, how to rock out in a garage band, compose music, try out a new instrument, or create an art project, New Song School of the Arts has a camp for every child! Go online to save your spot at a camp that will hone your child’s craft in music and the arts. All camps are located at 7861 Tudor Lane in Argyle.

www.LantanaLiving.com

APRIL 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 41

Olivia’s W O

R

K

H O P

by Barbara-Scott Kolb

A

gifted, outspoken filmmaker has built up a following with her do it yourself videos. At just 9

years old, Lantana resident Olivia Lau is teaching kids and adults how to make their own homemade goods on her YouTube channel, Olivia’s Workshop.

This little innovator started designing and selling felt headbands as a hobby and has since developed a true knack for constructing unique, handcrafted

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| APRIL 2019

ornaments to brighten up your tree —

Olivia had a video for everyone interested in Christmas themed arts and crafts.

As we’ve entered Spring, she has come up with clever ideas for skin products

and fashion! Her most recent DIY videos include tutorials on how to make your

own tassel earrings, jeweled headbands, and painted marble coasters. She has

even concocted two different types of

salt scrubs — coffee and lavender mint.

Ms. Olivia, the queen of crafts, plans on

items. As her list of ideas continues to

posting two videos per week throughout

demonstration videos on how to create

way through her long list of ideas.

grow, she enjoys posting step-by-step

the summer as she continues to work her

her favorite projects.

She hopes to spread the joy of what

This past holiday season, Olivia captured the attention of hundreds of viewers as she taught families how to create their

own wreaths, ornaments, and Christmas presents. Whether you were searching

for a fun way to make holiday decorations from scratch or how to design your own

she does with others.

“I hope others will like to make fun crafts like I do!” Oliva said.

Subscribe to Olivia’s Workshop and

follow her on Facebook to free your

imagination and learn how to create your own homemade goodies.

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APRIL 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 43

Ask The Expert: Fitness

The Best Gift for Any Mom:

A HEALTHY

W

FAMILY

e learn by example, and the same holds true for fitness. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reports that more than 80 percent of adults fail to meet guidelines for aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities.

At the same time, 80 percent of adolescents do not get enough aerobic physical activity to meet the guidelines for youth. Isn’t it time that we set the example and teach our children about health and fitness by leading the way?

Children naturally look to parents as mentors and role models. That influence helps mold them into who they will be as adults and is a key factor in how they make decisions about life and about fitness.

So make fitness a family affair.

Get Fit Together. Whether you walk together, bike together, or even dance together, the important fact is that 1) you live an active lifestyle and 2) you’re doing

Actual Clients

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| APRIL 2019

Eat Healthy Together. That large order of french fries may taste delicious, but is it really the healthy lifestyle you want for your child? One in five school-aged children is obese according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

Make a healthy diet part of your everyday life. Cut out the chips and sodas, and stock the fridge and pantry with healthy snacks like fruit, cheese, nuts or yogurt.

Take Care of Yourself. As a mother, consider how important your health is to your family. Fitness, specifically weight training, can help protect your bones and prevent osteoporosis-related injuries.

With strength training, you’ll gain improved balance and coordination, which helps you keep a steady step and not fall. It is also beneficial in preventing bone loss and building new bone.

Health and fitness can be extremely successful when you do it together as a family. At Jesse James Fit and Outlaw FitCamp, we encourage families to get fit together. We work with clients of all ages and fitness levels to help them reach their personal fitness goals.

by Jesse J. Leyva, Owner of Jesse James Fit & Outlaw Fitcamp JesseJamesFit.com OutlawFitcamp.com

www.LantanaLiving.com

photo courtesy of Jesse James Fit

One of the best ways to teach children a fit and healthy lifestyle is to do it together.

Get everyone on board and center the new life changes around an event.

With Mother’s Day around the corner, ask for the best gift of all – a healthy family.

it together. In the gym, exercise together and encourage one another to go the extra step and not to give up. Remember you, as a parent, are modeling a fit and healthy lifestyle.

www.LantanaLiving.com

APRIL 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 45

Real Estate Article

It’s HAIL SEASON Here’s a Layman’s Guide To Roof Hail Damage

by Steve Gamel

W

Y’all

hen you live in North Texas, it’s easy to grow accustomed to unpredictable weather. One day it could be sunny and 75 degrees, and the next day, the wind chill makes it feel like 18 degrees with a chance of scattered thunderstorms.

It can be aggravating, but for the most part, everyone goes with the flow. Well, unless there’s hail – anything but hail!

According to the National Storm Damage Center, hail, which can be as small as a pea to as large as softballs, causes about $1 billion in damages in the United States each year to vehicles, houses, outside furniture, and anything else it feels like pelting in the middle of the night. We all know a comprehensive assessment of the damage to your home – especially if it involves climbing up on your roof – needs to performed by a licensed, neighborhood roofing expert, but there are a few things homeowners can safely look for from the ground to get an idea of whether or not they may have a damaged roof:

Dented or Loose Gutters and Downspouts Your gutters are often a perfect indicator that there’s a bigger problem on the roof.

Even if they aren’t loose and haven’t fallen off your house, your gutters may have dents and dings in the metal from the hail repeatedly pounding on them.

Missing Shingles Chips or Cracks in Windows and Siding The hail may not have been big enough or lasted long enough to break a window, but pay close attention to the caulking around your windows – are there chips, tears, or cracks? If you have window screens, are they bent or missing? How about the siding on your house?

Are there punctures of any kind? Write all this stuff down to point out to your roofer.

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Leaks Inside The House Homeowners spend so much time leaping outside to spot potential damage that they ignore telltale signs inside the home.

These can include leaks in the ceiling, attic, or excess water pooling on the inside of your fireplace. Bottom line, if there are any leaks whatsoever, you need to call a roofing professional immediately.

Again, leave climbing on the roof to a professional.

But sometimes all it takes to spot signs of a potentially bigger problem is by walking around the perimeter of your property with a pair of binoculars to see if there are any missing shingles.

Also check the grass, swimming pool, and nearby landscaping for debris such as roofing nails, shingles that may have blown off, large tree limbs, or granules that have collected near downspouts. www.LantanaLiving.com

Chimney Damage Chimney damage can sometimes be very easy to spot if you notice holes in the siding. Another telltale sign of hidden damage is a water leak anywhere in the vicinity of where the chimney is.

Hail Splatter Marks, Scrapes on Fences, Decks, and Wood Surfaces Depending on the color of your fence or deck, hail marks can look like someone splattered them with white paint.

Look for holes, cracks, chips, splits, or general unsightly marks or indentations.

Hail damage on your vehicles If the hail storm was significant enough to damage your vehicle, then the same thing likely happened to your roof. Have it looked at by a roofing pro immediately.

There are a million other items on your property, including your mailbox, playsets, and outdoor lighting that will help you determine if your roof was likely damaged in a hail storm.

If you believe you may have hail damage, there are reputable roofing companies all over Denton County that will gladly provide a free and detailed inspection and give you tips on what to do next if there is enough damage to file a claim.

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APRIL 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 47

photo courtesy of Russell Webb

Real Estate Article

Russell Webb, CCIM Managing Partner Broker

(Q) Tell me about your journey as a

Managing Partner? How did you get to where you are today, and did anyone help you?

(A) My Dad was in real estate for 50 plus

encourager and supporter for many years and is still today.

(Q) What are some of the challenges or obstacles you have faced in the

years in Abilene, Texas and taught me

real estate business, especially trying

Abilene) the art of property management

in the beginning?

(David Webb) started David Webb

first in 2001, 2008-2009, and when we

commercial property and brokerage

to save for a rainy day and invest in real

business in 2011 and was an

future. We started with zero debt

and my brother (Glen attorney currently in

to get your business off the ground

and investing in real estate. My Father

(A) I have been through three downturns

Realtors in 1977 and ran a residential/

started our firm in 2011. You have to learn

company. My Dad helped me start my

estate that will make you money in the

817.849.8282 • rwebb@silveroakcre.com 2805 Market Loop, Ste. 100 Southlake, TX 76092

and continue to not rely on debt or loans to run our current brokerage office at Silver Oak.

SPRING

BREAK Family Fun Photos were submitted by area residents.

If you’d like to submit your photos for publication or if you have any questions please email us at artwork@murray-media.com.

50 | LANTANA LIVING

| APRIL 2019

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APRIL 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 51

Ask The Expert: School Days

How Moving Can AFFECT CHILDREN

by Valorie McGilvra

I

’ll never forget when my parents told us we were moving from our home in the Adirondack Mountains to South Carolina. It was the fall of my 6th-grade year. My older sister was in 9th grade and my brother was in 11th grade. Dad was a builder and the 70s market killed his vacation home building business.

When we arrived in SC, things were not

So with my personal experience,

dismayed with our school. My dad was

my takeaways: Moving is a very impactful

what we thought. My siblings and I were not happy with his job either, and within two weeks we were packed up again in

our van on our way to the Sunshine State.

research, and 16 years teaching, here are event in a child’s life and needs to have deep consideration. First of all,

not moving is preferable if you have a

Over the course of the next 18 years,

good school and your kids are happy.

and moved back and forth between

curveballs, and moving is necessary.

my parents had three more children

New York and Florida as the construction market fluctuated.

My siblings did not fare so well.

They would change schools countless

times as my dad tried to find consistent

work. Their paths had a lot more bumps and did not result in finishing school.

I truly believe that the moving was the difference. I was fortunate and only

changed schools twice, so I was able to graduate.

Our story does, however, have a happy

However, life sometimes throws us

Here are a few tips that might help the transition go easier.

• Plan your move so your child can start at the beginning of the school year.

• Start after a break as opposed to before, and start on a Monday.

• Give them as much advance notice as

possible, however, only when you know for sure that you are leaving.

• Let them imagine their new home.

• Toddlers, believe it or not, have a hard time with moving. They need familiarity and routines. I remember when our son was almost two we moved and we were potty training at the same time – big mistake. He regressed. The pediatrician told us to wait until we were settled before we tried again. He was right.

After a couple of months, our son was ready to wear his big boy pants.

• If your child is close to the end of a year, try to stay until they finish.

• Children who have disabilities or reading or math struggles might also not benefit from moving. It is just something to really consider and discuss. Typically, it is said that a child will lose three weeks of school each time they move.

Once your child is enrolled in the new school get to know all of the school and classroom procedures quickly. You might even want to schedule a meeting with the

ending. My Siblings all went back and got

Show them pictures of the

teacher to share any pertinent information

all have very successful businesses.

Try to take them there if possible.

the school and his or her teacher.

their equivalency diploma, and now they

neighborhood, new school.

about your child and to learn more about

www.LantanaLiving.com

APRIL 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 53

Mother’s Day Gifts That Suit Her

LOVE

Language

by Susan Neuhalfen

A

uthor Gary Chapman wrote an amazing book that was first published in 1995 called The 5 Love Languages®.

That got us thinking: Do you know Mom’s love language? Read through Mr. Chapman’s list below and see which one best describes your mother.

The explanation for each language is listed below, along with a few Mother’s Day gift ideas.

Words of Affirmation: Verbal compliments expressing your

love and appreciation. Mom doesn’t hear thank you enough, so why not put it into words? Take the time to create a card, poem, or picture depicting your sentiment for her selflessness.

games. Put together a picnic lunch

of a gift as well, perhaps a well-deserved

kind of outing. Go to a restaurant

or a relaxing spa retreat? Many of your

and take her to a park or on some where everyone is comfortable – nothing stuffy or overpriced.

Giving Gifts: Tangible symbols that reflect your

mani-pedi or facial with a glass of wine, favorite local businesses are running

special Mother’s Day packages as we

speak, so be sure and get mom on the list immediately.

Acts of Service:

thoughtfulness and effort. Okay, now we’re

Whatever her love language, make sure to

Any act that eases the burden of

and appreciate her with some beautiful

kids often overthink what mom might want

Kay gift basket complete with lipstick,

instead stick to the basics and focus on

responsibility. After all, mom sure does do a lot for us, right?! The kids can all pitch

in, and both work on a meal and clean up afterward. Maybe Dad can do the dishes

and get the kids ready for bed. That leaves mom to relax and enjoy her day.

talking. Show mom how much you love

ask mom exactly what she wants. Guys and

earrings, a necklace, maybe even a Mary

every year for Mother’s Day; they should

lotions for her feet and hands, facial

creams and moisturizer. There are a million gift ideas out there that are affordable

and show how much you care – even if

it’s a pair of super soft and comfortable

Quality Time: Focused and undivided attention

spent together. This is by far the most

what comes from the heart. Chances are, all she really wants is some family time and to know you love her.

These are just some ways to show her

pajamas for cold nights of lounging.

just how much you appreciate what she

Physical Touch:

Oh, and by the way. If you want to grab

does for you, unconditionally, every day.

popular gift because most moms just

A non-sexual touch that reinforces

a copy of Gary Chapman’s The 5 Love

uninterrupted by phones, iPads, or video

massage). This could also be in the form

Barnes & Noble or as an audio book.

want to spend time with their families

54 | LANTANA LIVING

| APRIL 2019

your presence (hugging, handholding,

Languages®, it can be found at any

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APRIL 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 55

Real Estate Article

Cassandra 12 QU E S TION S W ITH

Homer

WITH CASSANDRA & CO. REAL ESTATE GROUP

by Steve Gamel

What is your least favorite thing about

In a recent interview with Lantana Living, Cassandra was gracious enough to play an old-fashioned game of 20 Questions, where she dished on everything – literally everything. She’s not afraid of these games.

to yourself.

I’d say Andy Cohen from Bravo. That guy

Who is funnier, you or your

Why did you get into real estate?

elevator for a good amount of time,

Travis would say he’s funnier, but the

she is an amazing woman.

would say me.

I was 18 and didn’t know any better.

Just kidding, of course. I thought it was an awesome job and a chance to get my foot in the door. And I haven’t taken my foot out of that door yet. This is where I was meant to be, as cheesy as that sounds.

What is your favorite thing about real estate?

That’s a really good question. I would s ay the variety and the people. I like being a part of someone’s story. I get to be a part of these big pieces of your life. That’s exciting to me.

56 | LANTANA LIVING

| APRIL 2019

real estate?

The lack of respect between agents. I tell

my agents that the client is very rarely the one who gives you the headache. It’s the

other professionals that occasionally cause a lot of stress.

You say all the time “Don’t fake the funk.” What do you mean by that?

Don’t be someone you are not. Be true If you are stuck in an elevator with one person, who would it be?

What is your favorite food?

I eat like a 9-year-old girl. I like Mac N

Cheese, pop tarts, and waffles. So my

favorite has to be Velveeta Shells and Cheese and an orange soda.

If you had to karaoke one song, what would it be?

Rapper’s Delight. But, it would need to

be the version by Def Squad. We need

to be specific on that! Or, to even it out, Redneck Woman by Gretchen Wilson.

If those two songs aren’t on your mix tape, who are you?

has all the gossip, and if we are in that

husband, Travis?

I would get it out of him. Him or Tina Fey;

rest of the population – living or dead –

What’s your deepest darkest secret?

Who or where would you haunt if you

That I want published? I once auditioned

were a ghost?

with my best friend, Megan, to Positive K’s

Arcade in New Hampshire. It has since

for a talent show in school, and it was a duet

My first job was at Happy Hampton

“I gotta man.” We did not get in, but I still

burned down, but that area gets a lot of

know all the words. Don’t worry.”

Do you have an unusual talent?

tourists. I would say that would be where I would haunt.

I can still do a cartwheel. Sloane is in

What is your favorite trait about yourself?

sees me doing a cartwheel.

keeps me sane.

gymnastics now, so she flips out when she

My sense of humor. I like to think it

www.LantanaLiving.com

photography by Your Candid Memories (yourcandidmemories.com)

S

ince 2013, what has mattered most to hundreds of buyers, sellers, and leasers across Denton County was that Cassandra Homer’s name was attached to their transaction. They knew they had a trusted partner, friend, mentor, and coach to help them make sense of the real estate market, and she’s always delivered an unmatched level of commitment to the community as well as a consistent understanding of the individual needs of her clients.

www.LantanaLiving.com

APRIL 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 57

Ask The Expert: Counseling

Your Neural Awakening®:

BEING PERFECTLY P

eople are often under the illusion that they need to be perfect to be loved, accepted, appreciated,

congratulated, rewarded, or valued.

We learn as children that mistakes are

not acceptable and should be avoided

at all costs. Our parents might unwittingly

shame us into never repeating a behavior again. Oftentimes, the “mistakes” made are spilling a glass of water, falling off a bike that we are learning to ride for the first time, not getting a hit at our baseball game, or not achieving a good enough grade.

When is our best good enough?

Were we designed to

that if we do everything perfectly, behave perfectly, or at least look as though we are, work and study perfectly, obtain the perfect grades, house, car, have perfect children, and perfect friends, that we will never be shamed or feel shame. We also tell ourselves that in being perfect, or at least in striving for perfectionism, we will be valued and loved.

The truth is, perfectionism grows out of shame and a fear of feeling shame in the future.

be perfect and behave perfectly? Are we not

human, and can we never make

mistakes? I have often heard the “we learn from our mistakes,” and that failure is

healthy because it will teach us how not

to fail again. So how is it that when we do fail, we are shamed, scolded, yelled at, humiliated, or punished?

Shame is a deeply painful feeling that gives us information on who we are as a person. We tend to want to avoid feeling shame, which is why we seek perfectionism in our life. We tell ourselves

The truth is, perfectionism grows out of shame and a fear of feeling shame in the future. Perfectionism is about fixing our negative beliefs about ourselves that were formed as children. It also breeds contempt for and arrogance towards others (i.e. if I am perfect and do everything perfectly, I am superior to others).

Think about how much time you spend doing something to the best of your

ability, and then how much time you spend perfecting it: we usually spend a lot longer on the 5% we are trying to perfect than we did on the 95% that is already so good. How do you want to spend your time? What matters most to you?

Accepting our imperfections begins to open the way for grace and self-love, acceptance, self-growth, tolerance, and gratitude. Knowing that we are perfectly imperfect means that we are taking back our power, that we are giving back our shame to those who imposed it on us, and that we can become comfortable with who we are in the world. Doing our best is good enough.

What would it have been like for you had you been supported and encouraged as a child, rather than shamed and punished for making mistakes? How would you be different today? What will your Neural Awakening® look like this season, and how will you be perfectly imperfect?

by Gretchen Hentsch-Cowles, MS, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Hopemead Counseling & Trauma Center www.hopemead.com

www.LantanaLiving.com

APRIL 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 59

IN A LAND

Far Away:

by Steve Gamel

LOC AL 4T

ER RAD IS G H

S

he already has two published books, was the featured guest at a handful of book signings with her grandmother,

and still has enough material from countless bedtime stories to create two or three more

PUBLISH

ED W ITER R

Isabella’s many nights of reading bedtime

The Adventures of Princess Isabella the

“It started as bedtime stories, but Isabella

Missing Pots Mystery is a continuation of

stories and solving playful mysteries.

has always loved to draw. We’ve spent

the last two years putting this new one

best-sellers if she wants to.

together; she would draw, and I’d write.”

Oh yeah, and she’s only in the fourth grade.

The goal is to convince parents to see

She is Lantana resident and Blanton Elementary fourth-grader, Isabella Walker, who has created a literary tag team with her grandma, Linda Romblom, Missing Pots Mystery. They held a book signing at Kimzey’s Coffee in Argyle on March 12 and 17.

When Isabella was in the second grade, they published The Adventures of Princess Isabella the Leprechaun. With each project, grammy Linda wrote the stories while Isabella drew pictures so everything magically came to life.

“These books are a product of our relationship,” said Linda, who found herself writing down notes during her and 60 | LANTANA LIVING

| APRIL 2019

interactions by reading books and crafting

bedtime stories with

that story but is more of a chapter book for more mature readers. Princess Isabella, a

recurring character, is joined in the second book by cousins, Ava and Ella, and her Grammie Linda to help Patrick Dennis Michael O’Shaun figure out how and

why pots used for gold at

rainbow’s end are missing.

their own children. In

Readers are promised to

bond that lasts a lifetime

far way as they team up

doing so, they build a

while reading material

that teaches life lessons, values, and explores teachable moments.

“It’s been nice to see

Isabella doing something

like this with her grandma,” said Lisa Walker, Isabella’s mother. “Too many kids these days are playing

video games. It’s nice to

see them pick up a book.”

be swept away to a land to solve the mystery.

“The key is to follow the direction of the child,” Linda said.

“If she decides she

wants to take it to the next level, then that’s

fine. My hope is others

can use this as a tool to build relationships

between themselves and their children."

www.LantanaLiving.com

photos courtesy of Lisa Walker

to recently publish their second book,

value in having those same meaningful

Leprechaun was a picture storybook.

www.LantanaLiving.com

APRIL 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 61

during the regular season but seemed to be hitting its stride late and proved that with a dominant 52-21 first-round playoff win over a Flower Mound team that won a district title and was in the middle of one of its best seasons in program history.

After that, the playoff bracket appeared to be shaping up in Guyer’s favor. But the Wildcats had to get past Lake Ridge first.

The two teams put together an absolute slugfest while combining for 92 points and nearly 1,000 yards of total offense.

by Steve Gamel

G

uyer football coach John Walsh isn’t kidding when he says he is more excited about this year’s spring football schedule than he’s been in a very long time.

Having 17 returning starters back from a playoff team a year ago will do that for your confidence.

“We feel as comfortable as we’ve felt in a long time because of the starters and other players we have coming back,” Walsh said. “It’s a big senior class and big junior class, so we are pretty veteran heavy – which is a good place to be. And they’re all in the right spots.”

This year’s star-studded cast includes running back Kaedric Cobbs, who was nearly impossible to bring down while rushing for 1,487 yards and 19 touchdowns.

On top of that, sophomore quarterback Eli Stowers had a breakout season as he passed for 1,571 yards and 13 touchdowns and rushed for 1,119 more and nine scores.

Guyer opens its spring schedule April 22 and will conclude with a spring game on May 16.

Defensively, the Wildcats will return most of their starters, including defensive “We feel as comfortable tackle Grant Mahon. as we’ve felt in a long time Mahon, an Oklahoma because of the starters State commit, missed last and other players we have season with a back injury.

Walsh has every reason to believe his team could be one of the top programs in Class 6A next year because of those 17 coming returning starters, and the spring is designed to get all those key players back on the field together and knock off any rust before the summer.

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| APRIL 2019

back...”

Walsh didn’t go so far as to say his coaching staff won’t have to do as much coaching during the spring, but having so many veterans does help. Guyer finished 5-5

In the third overtime, Lake Ridge scored on a 15-yard touchdown pass then added a two-point conversion before its defense finally held Guyer out of the end zone to secure the win.

One area of focus is at wide receiver, where Seth Meador leads a crew that includes Deuce Harmon and Zhighlil McMillan. Meador alone makes the Wildcats a dangerous team in the passing game.

“We are actually looking to put some things in that will help us stretch the field,” Walsh said.

“We are still going to run the football, but if you’re going to ask more from the receivers, spring is the best time to do it.

You take that and add in the fact that we have four of our five offensive linemen back and our two running backs, and it’s a good team. We are pretty thick, and defensively it’s about the same.”

Walsh added, “It’s the most depth and the most returners we’ve had in a long time.

My job is to get some teaching in, get them as strong as I can get them, and get them to the field healthy.”

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