Lantana Living Magazine April 2021

APRIL/MAY 2021 THE SPRING ISSUE

THE

PERFECT BALANCE

Family

&

OF LAW

LAW OFFICE OF KIMBERLY SHANKLIN

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

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TABLE OF Contents ASK THE EXPERTS

12 Fitness with Jesse James Fit 25 Edit This with Steve Gamel 35 Dentistry with Country Lakes Family Dental 43 Travel with Terri Guthrie 47 Home Decorating with POSH Home Staging & Redesign 53 Gardening with Complete Solutions 61 Organizing with Cloud Nine Organizing BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT 50 SpaVela: Your Spa Experience Is All In The Family PHOTOS FROM LANTANA 07 Resident Photos 18 Resident Photos Continued 19 Resident Photos Continued 24 Resident Photos Continued 41 Resident Photos Continued 49 Resident Photos Continued 60 Resident Photos Continued ARTICLES 08 10 Hot Summer Camps For Kids 11 What Is Cinco de Mayo?

15 Resin Art Sensation 16 Inside Community and Education 20 The Cement Holding A Community Together 22 Foodie Friday DFW: Taco Cielo 29 5 Things To Do 30 Local Control Is Important And In Danger!

36 One-Skillet Cheesy Sausage & Peppers Recipe 38 Children Are The Future 44 A Hidden Gem 48 Mother’s Day Gifts That Suit Her Love Language

PAGE

32

THE PERFECT BALANCE OF LAW &

Family LAW OFFICE OF KIMBERLY SHANKLIN

Cover Image Kimberly Shanklin of

The Law Office of Kimberly Shanklin.

56 Winning The Fight 58 Make Every Bite Count www.LiveLocalMagazines.com

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Publisher of Murray Media Group, kelly@murray-media.com Publisher & Editor Scott & Kelly Murray

Administration

If anything,

GET OUTSIDE & WORK ON THE GARDEN A

s the calendar flips to April, May, and then June and July, one thing that we all can stand to do more of is get out in the garden. Sure, summertime is for taking those long-awaited vacations, being with friends and family, and just enjoying some consistent weather. I’m certainly not insinuating that we kick those plans to the curb. But if you aren’t planning any trips this summer, or if you have some time in between getaways, get out and do some gardening.

Mow the lawn. Plant some pretty flowers. Clean some of the excess garbage out from below the shrubs! I bring this up because gardening, at its core, is something that can be very soothing to us emotionally and spiritually during these crazy times we live in — and now is as good a time as any to appreciate everything that gardening gives us.

Gardening is relaxing and can be very therapeutic. And if we do it right, it can turn any space into something beautiful.

I can’t say that I’m the world’s leading authority on gardening and lawn maintenance, but I can tell you that getting out there with Scott and the kids — or even by myself — has helped me recenter and focus on controlling what I can control.

The rest, as they say, will take care of itself. Here are a few inspirational quotes about gardening and life.

And thank you for reading our latest issue!

“Gardening adds years to your life and life to your years.” — unknown author

“God Almighty first planted a garden. And indeed, it is the purest of human pleasures.” — Francis Bacon

Managing Editor Jana Melton Sub-Editors Bobbi Byrne Alisha Tran

Editor & Writer Steve Gamel

Writers

Caylie Howard, Diane Ciarloni Jade Kensington, Jean Eisenmann Leena Duwadi, Rebecca Beer

Advertising Inquiries

sales@murray-media.com

Production

Graphic Designers Caroline Brock Cayla Thompson Fernando Gomez

Photography

Miranda Longoria Photography Your Candid Memories Photography What’s That Guy’s Name? Guy T Photography

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 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

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. © 2021 Murray Media Group

Sincerely, Kelly Murray 6 | LANTANA LIVING | APRIL 2021

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HOT

SUMMER

CAMPS FOR KIDS

1. Win Kids | 3000 Waketon Rd. • Flower Mound, TX 75028 Win Kids is all about a fun and kid-friendly experience. Their summer camp activities consist of obstacle courses, gymnastics, stories, martial arts, nature walks, petting zoos, crafts, snacks, and more! You know your child is safe and having a blast when you enroll them in Win Kids Summer Camp.

2. Excite! | 2225 Highland Village Rd. • Highland Village, TX 75077 Excite! Summer camps are fun for each child that enrolls. It keeps them entertained and active throughout the day. Excite! Summer camp was created for members of Excite!

However, if you are not already a member, it is very easy to join. Kids will tumble their way into a fantastic summer at Excite!

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3. YMCA | 2021 Cross Timbers Rd. • Flower Mound, TX 75028 The YMCA offers Summer Day Camps that are all about discovery, finding new talents,

trying new activities, and making lasting memories. Each campers’ day will be filled with nature and outdoor learning, games, swimming, and more! Your kids will have a ball at the YMCA Summer Day Camp!

4. IKidz | 25679 Smotherman Rd. • Frisco, TX 75033 IKidz is a woman-owned and operated, state-certified, child-care operation that focuses

on child safety, healthy food, and academic enrichment. They offer fun experiences such as sports activities and field trips that your child is sure to love! Your kids will never want to leave IKidz summer camp.

5. RNR Stables | 3114 Parkridge Dr. • Corinth, TX 76210 RNR Stables offers fun and popular horseback riding summer camp programs for kids

of all ages. Their goal is to share with everyone the joy of learning horsemanship skills.

With over 40 years of experience, RNR Stables is sure to provide your child with a oneof-a-kind summer camp experience.

8. Bach to Rock FLM 6000 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 200 Flower Mound, TX 75028 Bach to Rock Flower Mound offers a special musical experience for each child. They teach musical instruments that include guitar, piano, drums, voice, violin, trumpet, and more! If you are looking for a unique way for your child to spend their summer, Bach to Rock Flower Mound is the place to be!

9. School of Rock 6891 Main St. • Frisco, TX 75034

6. Adventure Kids Playcare | 690 Parker Square Rd. • Flower Mound, TX 75028 Adventure Kids Playcare is a unique and fun childcare and entertainment center for

kids from ages 6 weeks to 12 years old. You can be sure that your child will be safe and secure as they play, explore, and learn in this fun and exciting environment. Your child will have a blast at Adventure Kids Playcare!

7. Kids R Kids | 2660 Main St. • Frisco, TX 75033 Kids R Kids Learning Academy offers a unique state-of-the-art, technology-filled

experience. This summer camp offers an experience that you won’t be able to find

anywhere else. Your child will be sure to make lasting friendships and memories at Kids R Kids!

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School of Rock is the leader in performance-based music education.

Your kids are sure to have a blast learning to play music, have fun, and create great communities of musicians. Your kids are sure to be entertained at School of Rock this summer!

10. YMCA Camp on the Lake 709 Highland Village Rd. Highland Village, TX 75077 YMCA Camp on the Lake is a fun and exciting waterfront day camp environment created just for kids. This unique experience will provide your child with a variety of camp activities that are usually exclusive to sleep-away camps.

Your child won’t be able to stop talking about YMCA Camp on the Lake!

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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.

CARNE ASADA GREEN CHILE RICE

(MMG employee authentic family recipe)

Ingredients •

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

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. www.LiveLocalMagazines.com

•

1 ½ cups cooked rice

•

4 lb bag of oranges

•

2 cups chicken broth

•

Chef Merito Carne Asada Seasoning

•

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

•

1 large glass pan to hold/marinate meat in

•

Outdoor grill

•

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

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!

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.

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Ask The Expert: Fitness

The Differences Between

INSTRUCTORS AND

PERSONAL TRAINERS?

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

F

restrictions. They do not work on a one-size-fits-all fitness plan.

• Besides tailoring a personal exercise program for you, certified PTs are

also able to help with personalized nutrition plans.

• In addition to working on nutrition,

certified PTs address stress levels, sleep

quality, and other areas they may see as a stumbling block.

• Certified PTs will always conduct a

health and fitness assessment before beginning a personalized plan.

• Certified PTs provide close supervision

so that risk of injury and exercise fatigue

itness instructor, gym instructor, trainer, fitness coach, and certified trainer.

No wonder there’s so much confusion about what kind of fitness training would be your best choice and what the differences are!

We’re here to tell you there are definitely differences, and they’re important ones, too. We’ll explain the differences between instructors and certified personal trainers, and let you know why we only hire trainers who fall into one category.

(Spoiler alert: we only hire certified personal trainers). And here’s why:

• Instructors can develop a good, basic knowledge for what they do, And we know there are good instructors out

you go at it for weeks on end. They’ll tweak the program as you progress.

• Certified PTs can even work on

a certified personal trainer, and that’s

about your workouts. This is critical

Outlaw FitCamps.

happen overnight.

will continue further training to become

keep you motivated and feeling positive

who we hire at Jesse James Fit and

for long-term change, as results never

• Instructors do receive a certification, but the process is much quicker and simpler than that of personal trainers.

• Certified personal trainers (PTs) have

• Instructors are trained to run fitness classes, bodyweight aerobics classes, etc.

exercise program for you and then let

psychology and behavioral changes to

Certified personal trainers

• Instructors aren’t required to have much anatomy training or knowledge in exercise science.

• A certified PT won’t just develop an

there. But…most of the dedicated ones

Instructors

• The emphasis of instructors is mostly on aerobic, cardio-based workouts.

is limited.

extensive knowledge and training in

exercise science, anatomy, and safety in movements.

• They help you reach your personal

fitness, weight, and/or health goals. They work on specific goals for individuals.

• They guide you to results from wherever

Jesse James Fit and Outlaw FitCamps hire only the best certified personal trainers

At Jesse James Fit and Outlaw FitCamps, we hire only certified personal trainers.

We hire the best of the best, and then we

train them in our proven methods. But we don’t stop there—we give them a great

work environment so that they become

long-term employees. Many of our trainers have been with us for years!

you are in your journey, as they’re

If you’re ready to benefit from the

beginners to bodybuilders. They’re able

personal trainer, give us a call today at

trained to work with everyone from

to help clients with special needs or

expertise of a skilled, well-trained certified 972.355.2639.

972.355.2639 • JESSEJAMESFIT.COM | 940.497.6002 • OUTLAWFITCAMP.COM

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RE SI N

Art S E N SAT I O N

L

by Steve Gamel | photos courtesy of LR Designs facebook page

andon Rosckes figured his new resin art hobby would be nothing more than a chance to flex his creative muscles during downtime between classes. What it became was a full-fledged business and a hit among local art enthusiasts.

job, but he stumbled across YouTube videos of artists working with resin and was instantly hooked. Admittedly, he had no idea what he was looking at, but he quickly signed up for an epoxy resin course and learned as much as he could.

He learned that by mixing resin with a hardener, the result is a high-gloss, clear surface. Resin artists get creative by adding color pigments or other additives to the resin, transforming what might be an ordinary table, etc. into an intricate work of art. The sky is the limit with this form of art, and Rosckes’ pieces prove that.

“I definitely wasn’t expecting it to get this big,” said Rosckes, who had 340 Likes on Facebook when this story was published.

“As soon as I finish something, I’m posting

“I’M JUST GOING TO THROW THIS MONEY TOWARD IT AND SEE WHERE IT TAKES ME.” Rosckes is an Argyle resident who

with a laugh. “Sure enough, my family

it to my LR Designs Facebook page so that

and now attends Oklahoma University.

did, too. I never thought anyone would

all sorts of people messaging

graduated from Guyer three years ago He formally started LR Designs shortly

after several of his unique cutting boards, tables, and wall pieces were gobbled up by interested online buyers last summer.

His first project, a 2-feet by 2-feet ocean

thought they were cool, and neighbors actually purchase anything, but once that happened, I thought, ‘I might actually have something here.’ I’ve just kept with it all this time.”

piece, sold on Facebook for $400. It is now

He added, “To see the reactions on people’s

one of more than 100 pieces he’s sold

faces when they see the different pieces —

during the last year — all in his spare time.

that’s what it’s all about.”

“My dad thought I was crazy because to

Rosckes, 21, is a pre-med chemical

especially starting off. But I figured, ‘I’m

art came to him on a whim while he was

and see where it takes me,’” Rosckes said

He didn’t have time to get a traditional 9-5

do resin artwork is pretty expensive —

biosciences major. He said the idea of resin

just going to throw this money toward it

taking a few sciences courses last summer.

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my followers can see them first. I’ve had me, so it’s been fun.”

If you’re a fan of Rosckes’ work, don’t be alarmed that he hasn’t been pumping

out any new pieces lately. As previously mentioned, he is a full-time student at

OU and is currently studying to take his

Medical College Admission Test. He says that as soon as he has some free time — likely this summer — he’ll be back at work being creative.

“It’s something that I love to do,” Rosckes said.

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INSIDE COMMUNITY

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK @LantanaLiving

ANNUAL PULLING FOR KIDS CLAY TOURNAMENT CASA of Denton County is hosting their 20th Annual Pulling for Kids Sporting Clay Tournament on June 25th! Join as a sponsor, team, or volunteer at the Dallas Gun Club from 7:30am - 5:30pm to help CASA raise money for the best interest of children in Denton County that have been abused and neglected. Go to https://casadenton.org/ news-events/pfk/ for more information. photo courtesy of Casa Of Denton County social media page

HIGHLAND VILLAGE ART FESTIVAL May 1 | 10am - 6pm | The Shops at Highland Village Come check out the Highland Village Art Festival where you can view displays from over 30 gallery-quality artists, artist demonstrations, live music and entertainment, and interactive children’s art activities. This event will be benefiting the Kids Kastle Community Build Project. For information go to https://www.highlandvillage. org/786/Highland-Village-Art-Festival.

INSIDE EDUCATION

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK @LantanaLiving

7 PRIMROSE SCHOOLS MAKE BIG IMPACT FOR NON-PROFIT 7 Primrose schools joined forces to donate over 2,000 books to local non-profit, Book Drive for Kids! Book Drive for Kids is on a mission to help create a culture of literacy by providing books to disadvantaged children for independent reading and do this by hosting free book fairs throughout DFW. Thank you to all the Primrose schools who donated and to Book Drive for Kids! photo courtesy of Emily Lawless

GUYER’S TRACK STAR BRYNN BROWN Guyer senior Brynn Brown knows how to make history! She is the first female cross country runner to clock a time under 16:20 in a 5-kilometer race more than once in a single season AND now holds the record for the fastest 5,000-meter high school race in Texas history. She’s an impressive lady and North Carolina will be lucky to have her next year on their team. photo courtesy of Denton ISD social media page

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NORTH TEXAS YOUTH FILM FESTIVAL 10TH ANNUAL GLENN GARCELON FOUNDATION GOLF CLASSIC The 10th Annual Glenn Garcelon Foundation Golf Classic will be held on May 2nd at Tour 18 in Flower Mound! Enjoy a day of golf, a box lunch, a raffle, wine pull, Just “Fore” Fun gift card, and a delicious dinner. They’re also planning an extra special celebration this year to commemorate this milestone. This event will help raise money to empower and support brain tumor patients. Go to https://www.glenngarcelonfoundation. org/10th-annual-dallas-golf-classic for more details.

The North Texas Youth Film Festival will be held on Saturday, May 15th! Come and watch films created by students where they will have a chance to win money in many categories. This event is hosted by Stage Right of Trietsch and is created by students, run by students, for students. For more details go to https://www.ntyff.com/.

NEW DENTON ISD HIGH SCHOOL Denton ISD has announced the LaGrone Academy is coming this fall! The LaGrone Academy is a high school of choice that focuses on college and career readiness. It will offer flexible scheduling and the opportunity to finish CTE certifications without having to travel to one of the district’s four comprehensive high schools for other courses. For more information or to sign up to go https://sites.google.com/g.dentonisd.org/ lagroneacademy.

THE BUDDY BENCH Earlier this year, “Buddy Bench” signs were installed on the kindergarten through 5thgrade playground at Liberty Christian School. When children sit on these benches, it signals to others that they’re looking for a buddy to play with. Third graders, Brooks Lepschy, Cade Lewis, and Josiah Sanchez got the idea after seeing a Buddy Bench at a local park and thought it’d be the perfect addition to their school playground. What cuties! photo courtesy of Liberty Christian School social media page

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Community The Cement Holding A

Together

by Rebecca Beer | photos courtesy of Rebecca Beer

“IT JUST TURNED INTO AN ONGOING THING,” SHE SAID...PEOPLE STARTED REACHING OUT TO US, AND WE GOT REALLY INVOLVED WITH EARTH DAY.”

Wong and Hallingstad are members of Lantana Cares - a resident-empowered 501c3 organization dedicated to beautification, education, and recreation in the mega-subdivision of Lantana.

Wong started the organization in 2016 as a way to assist residents by creating a nonprofit neighborhood group that works directly with the different entities that keep Lantana running - the homeowner’s association and the water district.

“I met with Bill Featherstone, and we realized that our community is unique,” Wong said. “We’re not really a town we’re unincorporated - and we saw that different aspects of our community were being taken care of by different entities.”

According to Wong, the intricate

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W

hen you venture into the 4,000home community of Lantana, you’ll look across lush countryside dotted with manicured lawns and burgeoning infrastructure, all woven together by clean streets. There’s also a good chance you’ll see Lantana neighbors Christy Wong and Kristine Hallingstad doing the dirty work to keep this piece of unincorporated Denton County pristine.

Wong and Hallingstad are members of Lantana Cares - a resident-empowered 501c3 organization dedicated to beautification, education, and recreation in the mega-subdivision of Lantana.

Wong started the organization in 2016 as a way to assist residents by creating a non-profit neighborhood group that works directly with the different entities that keep Lantana running - the homeowner’s association and the water district.

“I met with Bill Featherstone, and we realized that our community is unique,” Wong said. “We’re not really a town - we’re unincorporated - and we saw that different aspects of our community were being taken care of by different entities.”

According to Wong, the intricate structure of Lantana’s governing bodies led to communication challenges between residents and the service providers for the community. www.LiveLocalMagazines.com

As if a global pandemic weren’t enough, educators are also struggling with the aftermath of winter storms that devastated North Texas. Over 900 Harpool Middle School students were redistributed across five other schools after the middle school sustained severe damage in sub-zero temperatures.

“The freeze completely closed down Harpool Middle School,” Hallingstad said. “We wanted to make it easier for our relocated teachers, so we jumped in as quickly as possible and were able to distribute 70 $200 gift cards to help replace some of the supplies our teachers lost due to water damage.”

“Everyone blamed the HOA,” Wong said.

“There were lots of little things slipping

through the cracks, entities were pointing fingers at each other, and there was just a lot of back and forth.”

Wong and a few other residents decided

to take the initiative to address an eyesore

of an empty lot that was littered with trash.

What Wong didn’t expect was that the

small project would evolve to become her own 501c3 charitable organization.

“It just turned into an ongoing thing,” she said. “We started reaching out to

sponsors for cleaning supplies, volunteer

breakfasts, t-shirts - stuff to inspire people to keep coming back. People started reaching out to us, and we got really involved with Earth Day.”

Some of the most notable projects

Lantana Cares has spearheaded were

the community clean-up after Music on

the Green and beautification projects for Lantana’s new Community Event Center.

In the coming months, the organization

will play a part in installing a new splash pad feature at the community center.

Lantana Cares also works with

schools, PTA leadership, and teachers to fund education initiatives. With the www.LiveLocalMagazines.com

challenges of learning remotely, Lantana Cares introduced two pilot programs last fall: the Lantana Cares Tutoring Grant - a financial helping hand for students affected by the pandemic - and Teachers Pay Teachers class fund grants.

“With the pandemic, we saw an opportunity,” Hallingstad said. “We got a great response to our pilot programs.

We’re able to pay for about 50 to 60 percent of tutoring costs for kids who have fallen behind or have struggled.”

Additionally, in the spirit of furthering its mission for education, Lantana Cares has also funded access to a digital collective called Teachers Pay Teachers.

This provides teachers with the tools they need to teach in-person and online.

“It’s an online forum where teachers can get together to share resources and create assets,” Hallingstad said. “They’re really having to reinvent the wheel with teaching. It takes a little bit of stress off teachers so they don’t have to pay for access to assets out of their own pockets.”

With over 30 years combined as residents of Lantana, Hallingstad and Wong are extremely familiar with the nuanced relationships upholding their community.

They’re also familiar with how crucial these relationships are to their family, friends, and neighbors.

“We love this community and our neighbors,” Hallingstad said. “We want Lantana to remain a beautiful place to live where neighbors support education and the teachers who make a difference in our children’s lives.”

Wong emphasized that many of the projects they’ve completed may not be obvious or physically visible, but they will benefit Lantana for years to come and help the community on a broader scale.

“I’m really grateful to early sponsors for getting us going and for helping us realize our vision,” Wong said. “It just goes to show you how much people love Lantana and take pride in their community.”

Lantana Cares is paying for access to the Teachers Pay Teachers library of digital assets through March 2022. As of March 2021, over 60 teachers have signed up for access.

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Foodie Friday DFW: Taco Cielo

TACO CIELO

by Jay Marks | photos courtesy of Foodie Friday DFW

A

nyone else like to imagine that in heaven we’ll find delicious street tacos on every corner? If you do, then you’ll love what they have to offer at Taco Cielo in Highland Village.

Over the last three years, they’ve become well-known in the community for their fresh-made cuisine using as many local ingredients as possible. They’re famous for everything from their salsa bar to their full-service bar and (of course) their street tacos.

You can top their famous Cielo Tacos with everything from one of their seven meats to fried avocado to shrimp, and there’s no way to go wrong no matter what you choose! They’ve also become well-known for their tamales, burritos, and their Carne Asada Fries.

...GREAT SPECIALS YOU CAN TAKE ADVANTAGE OF LIKE TACO TUESDAY AND BURRITO THURSDAYS — WHERE YOU CAN GET ANY BURRITO FOR $5.99.

Taco Cielo is also a fantastic place to enjoy entertainment after work or on the weekends. They have a huge bar fully-stocked with tequilas, beers, etc.

— all with a couple of big screens and projectors where you can watch a game.

And when it comes to their drinks, they’re famous for their Cielo Slush made with Malibu rum, strawberry, and more. Their Cielo Punch and martinis are also out of this world. You can find different bar specials throughout the week, and they also have Happy Hour Monday-Friday from opening until 4 p.m.

So, if you’re interested in finding out what heaven tastes like, we definitely recommend you visit Taco Cielo in Highland Village to find out!

And if breakfast tacos are your thing, you can also order their breakfast tacos any time of the day!

Throughout the week, Taco Cielo has lots of great specials you can take advantage

of like Taco Tuesday and Burrito Thursdays — where you can get any burrito for $5.99.

972.724.2540 | JayMarksRealEstate.com jay@jaymarksrealestate.com 3212 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 300 | Flower Mound, TX 75022 22 | LANTANA LIVING | APRIL 2021

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Edit This: Ask The Expert

STATIONARY VS. S TAT I O N E R Y

by Steve Gamel, Owner of Edit This

W

elcome to another Edit This® grammar lesson. In today’s lesson, let’s discuss the difference between Stationary vs. Stationery. Do you know when to use each one?

in other written copy. But any spelling

or grammar error in business writing –

brochures, website copy, blog posts, press releases, newsletters, etc. – wreak havoc

Stationary vs. Stationery are examples

of homophones – words that sound the same but have different meanings and spellings – and they trip more people up than you think.

So, let’s dive right in, shall we?

Stationary with an “ary” refers to

something that isn’t supposed to move.

It’s fixed in place, unchanging, and immobile.

• He rode the stationary bike.

• He ran into the stationary vehicle.

• Just aim and shoot at the stationary object.

Stationery with an “ery” refers to writing materials such as paper and envelopes.

• She bought some pretty stationery.

• The motel offers free stationery.

• The stationery order has arrived.

Call Edit This in Denton, TX, for all your writing and editing needs

It’s fun to tease friends on Facebook for grammar mistakes or point out errors

on your company’s image. Studies

show that when choosing between two companies, customers prefer the one with clear and error-free written communication.

We hope you enjoyed today’s lesson

on Stationary vs. Stationery. If you’re interested in having Edit This handle your company’s content writing and

editing needs, give us a call today! We can write copy from scratch or spruce

up what you’ve already written. When it comes to grammar, everyone could use an extra set of eyes.

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Things 5TO DO TRINITY RIVER KAYAK CO. TrinityRiverKayak.com Trinity River Kayak is a destination adventure company located on the Elm Fork of the Trinity River in Coppell, Texas.

Their Urban Adventures run 22 miles of the Elm Fork River with two three-hour runs and two six-hour runs. Fun for the whole family.

DENTON COMMUNITY MARKET DentonMarket.org Every Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon April through November at 317 W. Mulberry St. in Denton, Texas. Denton Community Market is a producer-only art and farmer’s market in downtown Denton.

Featuring live music, kids’ activities, local farms, local artists, food trucks, food vendors, and more!

TEXAS-TULIPS 10656 FM 2931, Pilot Point, TX 76258 TexasTulips.com Smell the tulips north of Dallas and enjoy the Sunnyside of life! Stroll through their wonderful tulip field of six acres, and pick your own tulips to create your own tulip bouquet. You can choose from thousands of tulips in exuberant different colors to be packed in pretty paper! Open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

BARNHILL VINEYARDS 11917 County Road 509, Anna, TX 75409 BarnHillVineyards.com Beautiful sunsets, fantastic live music, and wide open skies. Experience country life with their Texas vineyard, horses, donkeys, split-rail fence, and rustic barn at one of the more popular LIVE music events in North Texas. Texas wine - S’mores - Food Trucks - Open Fire! photo courtesy of BarnHill Facebook page www.LiveLocalMagazines.com

BENDT DISTILLING CO. BendtDistillingCO.com Spend an evening enjoying scratchmade craft cocktails in their one-of-a-kind whiskey garden under the big Texas sky!

With a rotating seasonal cocktail menu and a variety of whiskey and non-whiskey distilled spirits, they offer vibrant flavors for every palate.

Check out their website for Distillery Tours too!

APRIL 2021 | LANTANA LIVING | 29

DANGER!

AND IN

LOCAL CONTROL IS IMPORTANT

by Precinct 4 Commissioner Dianne Edmondson photo courtesy by Commissioner Dianne Edmondson

A

Last session, about 7,000 different

So how do we handle this daunting task?

in Austin. These dealt with everything

as the Texas Association of Counties,

from public education, transportation,

licensing roofers, and regulating texting

to legalizing marijuana and hundreds of other topics. Some of those bills have a

direct impact on your local officials’ ability to serve you, their constituents, as you

want to be served. In many cases, very

different counties are treated identically.

You, the residents of Denton County, are more aware than the lawmakers

in Austin of how you want your local

elected officials to deal with our local

issues. During the 140 days of a regular

legislative session, hundreds of committee meetings and dozens of general sessions are held, many concurrently. There is

By joining professional associations, such the Council of Urban Counties, Texas Municipal League, and other similar

professional groups such as those for

County and District Clerks, Tax Assessors/ Collectors, Elections Administrators,

District Attorneys, Sheriffs, Police and Firefighters, etc. As each of those associations identifies proposed

just minutes before a hearing. It makes

no financial or logical sense for all county judges, commissioners, and other county elected officials vainly to attempt to keep abreast of all pertinent legislation and

then travel to Austin to convey support

or concerns. Your local elected officials

urge citizens also to utilize associations to

which you may belong to track legislation and “lobby” your legislators with your

this link to follow legislation of interest to you https://capitol.texas.gov/Resources/ FollowABill.aspx .)

We are committed to full transparency on how your tax dollars are spent.

Accountability, embodied in the form of the ballot box, provides the most

transparent way for you, as local taxpayers, to ensure that you can measure results and hold your leaders accountable for how

we spend your public funds. Your Denton County elected officials communicate to our legislators on your behalf and also

encourage individual citizens to weigh in with their state legislators. (Use this link to find your State Representative or State Senator https://wrm.capitol. texas.gov/home.)

– the association notifies its members,

been the foundation of Texas’ economic

provides data regarding the legislation,

and encourages the individual members to contact their own state legislators to

express their opinions. The associations

are the conduits of important information.

jobs and head to Austin to monitor the

another way to review about 7,000 bills,

local constituents back home.

committee – sometimes with notice given

Strong partnerships between business,

members – either positively or negatively

Without these associations, for example,

progress of bills which will affect their

problematic bill is considered in

legislation which would affect its

simply no way that your local officials can – or should -- take time from their regular

and be present to testify when each

viewpoints on the proposed bills. (Use

s local elected officials, your County Commissioners and your municipal council members are the office holders closest to you, the residents of Denton County.

Their actions affect you the most of any legislative body, and they are the easiest for you to contact. After all, their offices are near your home, and you probably run into them from time to time at a local store or restaurant. Virtually every political figure knows that local control is important to provide the services, events, and outcomes that the public wants. pieces of legislation were introduced

legislators sitting on relevant committees,

community, and political leaders have success. Local leaders and elected

officials have historically enjoyed a

mutually cooperative advocacy model that supports their citizens, creates jobs, and

protects the quality of life in the cities and counties we all call home.

your elected officials would have to find

Let’s remember that “all politics is

analyze them for potential impact on their

local control strong and vibrant

respective counties, communicate with

local,” and how important it is to keep here in Texas.

CONNECT WITH US

If you would like to receive an e-newsletter, please contact Commissioner Edmondson at 972.434.3960 | Dianne.Edmondson@dentoncounty.gov | Southwest Courthouse: 6200 Canyon Falls Dr., Ste. 90 30 | LANTANA LIVING | APRIL 2021

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APRIL 2021 | LANTANA LIVING | 31

The

Perfect Balance

Family

AND

of Law

by Steve Gamel | photography by Your Candid Memories (YourCandidMemories.com)

K

imberly Shanklin insists she has one of those dreaded Type-A personalities you can see coming from four or five courtrooms away. She’s impatient, aggressive, and obsessed with doing things her way in a world where rules and procedure run her life. She also hates to disappoint and takes pride in being prepared for anything.

“We have two amazing boys. One thinks

Just ask her husband, Brody, who has

there for her clients. That has made the

negotiates and argues all his points, just

and a busy family life for nearly 16 years.

Denton the perfect choice for anyone

watched her navigate a high-stress career “I’m fairly certain my husband thinks I’m crazy because I have detailed lists for

Law Office of Kimberly Shanklin PLLC in needing superior counsel for criminal and family law cases.

every part of my day, with back-up lists if

When Town Life magazine recently

Sometimes he’ll find me working out at

it was clear there is also a softer side

keeps moving because he knows I need

away the law degree, accolades, and

things go off schedule due to client needs.

caught up with Kimberly at her office,

10:30 pm and just shakes his head and

to this ultra-ambitious lawyer. Strip

to mark it off my list. ” Kimberly said with a laugh.

The point is that everything Kimberly has achieved on her own during her nearly

20-year career has been predicated on a take-no-prisoners attitude mixed with a

compassionate mindset of always being

impressive win-loss record, and you have the quintessential wife and mother who has created the perfect balance of law

and family life. She is a devoted wife to

Brody Shanklin, judge of the Texas 211th

District Court in Denton. They have lived in Lantana for nearly six years and have two sons, Bryce (21) and Brock (15).

we are crazy and has no aspirations of

being a lawyer, and the other looks just like his dad but has my personality,”

Kimberly said of her kids. “Our youngest like a lawyer, and he’s very smart about

it. Losing an argument to a child is both exhausting and frustrating.”

Kimberly could go on and on about her family. In fact, no matter how successful she is at work, the road she took to get here always had them in mind. Before

opening her firm six years ago, Kimberly spent 13 years working for a larger firm representing thousands of clients. The

experience she gained was invaluable, but it was a volume-based job. One case was always followed by seven or eight more

in a fast-paced environment, which meant longer days and nights at work and less time focusing on the attention both her growing family and clients deserved.

940.382.8216 • ShanklinLawFirm.com 32 | LANTANA LIVING | APRIL 2021

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In Kimberly’s eyes,

that’s not the way she

envisioned practicing law for the long-term. Rather than push people in and out, she wanted to take time with each client

she represented and

approach her job with a personal touch.

“The best thing I did

was go out on my own,” Kimberly said. “With

some of these family law cases, it’s very intensive

with multiple life-altering decisions involved. You

have to take a step back

and focus on quality over quantity so that you can

devote the time you need to each person. I love

helping all my clients in any way I can.”

She added, “I learned early on in my career

that it was easy to gain tons of clients with the

lure of telling them what

they wanted to hear and making false promises.

But when clients asked

for my opinion, I offered the truth — even when I

knew it may cost me that client. Then, suddenly, I noticed those clients

coming back to me after a horrible experience with someone who

didn’t deliver. Then,

those clients referred clients who had bad

You have to take a step back and focus on quality over quantity so that you can devote the time you need to each person.

experiences and didn’t

trust lawyers. It was now people seeking me out based on reputation.

By knowing my worth,

drug court and often represents both parents and children in CPS cases. She is also the go-to Denton County attorney in misdemeanor and felony criminal cases.

I’m able to fight for my

One by one, Kimberly takes care of all her

help them with serious

is there to fight for them.

clients who trust me to

life-changing decisions.”

Kimberly’s firm

represents clients in

all types of family law

cases, including divorce,

clients – all with a reassuring tone that she And somehow, she’s always there for her family. It’s about striking that perfect balance between law and family life — and Kimberly is clearly the best at it.

child custody, and

“No matter what is going on at my practice

of few attorneys chosen

spend as much time as I can being a good

clients through the family

me the flexibility and freedom to do that.”

adoptions. She is one

and how much work I put in, I want to

to represent high-risk

mom and wife. Having my own firm allows

1517 Centre Place Dr., Ste. 250 • Denton, TX 76205 (FIRST UNITED BANK BLDG) www.LiveLocalMagazines.com

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Dentistry: Ask The Expert

Today’s Dentistry

PUTS THE

3D

IN

“D”

by Dr. Matt Artho, Owner of Country Lakes Family Dental

O

ne evening before bed, my son asked me if I would buy a 3D printer.

To his surprise, I informed him I already use a 3D printer at my practice.

He then asked if my printer was capable of printing food, to which I explained it would be really hard. He responded, “I was hoping it would be a piece of cake.”

Though my son’s expectations were met with slight disappointment, it is nothing short of a modern miracle how the advancements in 3D technology achieve incredible outcomes in dentistry.

communicate with additional equipment like 3D printers or mills that create dental evolution of 3D has propelled dentistry models and restorations. The accuracy into the future and beyond. of these models and When I consider how 3D restorations provides for ...IT OFTEN technology improves dental a more reliable and better REDUCES THE care, the first expression custom fit. In addition, it often TIME TO RECEIVE that comes to mind is reduces the time to receive RESTORATIVE CARE, restorative care, often within convenience. First, the days of uncomfortable OFTEN WITHIN THE the same day. Furthermore, impressions using a SAME DAY. utilizing digital scanning and mouthful of goop and bulky software can help predict the trays are a distant memory outcome of cosmetic procedures like with digital impressions. CAD/CAM crowns or veneers and orthodontic care technology allows light scanners to create for both traditional orthodontics and precise images of the entire mouth and aligners like Invisalign.

Here are a few examples of how the

Another advantage of 3D technology

is its ability to provide data for a more accurate diagnosis and predictable

treatment. Cone beam radiographs allow a three-dimensional view of

head and neck structure and detailed

depictions of the teeth, bone, and root structures. These 3D images give the

dentist the ability to preplan procedures like implants or root canals prior to the actual treatment to ensure a reliable result.

With the immense development of 3D technology in dentistry, it is difficult to

imagine dental care without it. Only time will tell how far the seemingly endless

possibilities will be grasped through its

evolution. I know how much I appreciate its use. Talk to your dentist about how

it may be used to improve your overall dental care.

Happy Smiling!

940.455.7645 | COUNTRYLAKESDENTAL.COM | 74 MCMAKIN RD., STE. 200 • BARTONVILLE, TX 76226

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APRIL 2021 | LANTANA LIVING | 35

One-Skillet CHEESY SAUSAGE

&PEPPERS

T

his super quick and easy one-skillet dish is full of flavor. Serve with lettuce wraps, gluten-free tortillas, or over a bed of steamed cauliflower rice for a satisfying meal.

Multi-colored peppers make for a nice presentation. However, any color of bell pepper, including green, work well for this recipe.

Time-Saving Tip: Slice the onions and peppers while the sausage is cooking.

Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 15-20 minutes Serves: 4

R E C I P E INGREDIENTS: 1¼ lbs. hot Italian sausage links, sliced 1 medium yellow onion, sliced thin Sea salt and black pepper, to taste ½ large red bell pepper, sliced thin ½ large yellow bell pepper, sliced thin ½ large orange bell pepper, sliced thin 2 T. fresh parsley, chopped 4-5 slices mild Provolone cheese DIRECTIONS: 1. Heat a large, high-sided skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, approximately 7-8 minutes.

with additional salt and black pepper, if desired. Cook, stirring frequently, until the peppers are crisp-tender and start to char, approximately 3-4 minutes. (Do not overcook or the peppers may become mushy).

4. Return the sausage to the skillet and stir to combine. Remove from heat and top with the chopped parsley and Provolone cheese slices. Cover and let sit for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is completely melted.

5. Remove lid and serve immediately with your choice of wraps and/or side dishes. Enjoy!

2. Transfer sausage to a platter and carefully drain all but one tablespoon of grease from the skillet, if needed. Add the onion and season with salt and black pepper, to taste.

Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and starts to develop some color, approximately 3-4 minutes.

3. Increase heat to medium-high and add the sliced peppers. Season lightly 36 | LANTANA LIVING | APRIL 2021

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APRIL 2021 | LANTANA LIVING | 37

CHILDREN ARE THE

FUTURE

by Caylie Howard | photo of Amy Bundgus courtesy of Amy Bundgus

I

t’s such an easy thing to say that children are our future. The children of today are going to grow up and pave the way for other future generations to come. This fact alone is why investing in our children and giving them opportunities for growth and success is so important in today’s society. Local Lantana resident Amy Bundgus sees how imperative these issues involving our youth truly are. She has set out to make an impressive difference for not only our children and our schools but also our community.

Amy has lived in Texas for the last 16

Amy has always been a very

was persuaded to travel south to the

system, including being

years. She is originally from Minnesota but Lone Star State due to better job opportunities and climate.

“Now, our entire family has actually relocated to Texas. We love North Texas.” Amy says.

Amy attended Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa where she majored in

active parent in the school a band mom and also attending events and football games.

“I think that it’s important to have people on

our board who are

invested,” Amy says.

political science. While in Iowa, Amy

Amy is extremely

Maddox, which quickly began her interest

the importance of our

worked under former Iowa Senator, Gene in politics. Amy has been married to

her husband for 10 years and together

they share a beautiful blended family of seven children. Amy has two biological

children, and her husband has five of his

own. Her youngest child is now a junior at Guyer High School. Because of her kids’

involvement in Denton ISD, Amy’s interest in our local school district began years ago.

38 | LANTANA LIVING | APRIL 2021

driven to bring light to children’s education, especially due to

all of the changes

and challenges that

COVID-19 has brought on. One of the places that Amy has noticed

room for improvement is

in the school’s curriculum.

Amy wants to bring

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“ I T H I N K T H AT I T ’ S I M P O R TA N T T O H AV E P E O P L E O N O U R B OA R D W H O A R E I N V E S T E D .” awareness to the importance of civics

system. Amy has a passion for providing

eliminating social and moral topics in the

become employable after graduation such

courses and accurate history, while also

classroom. “I believe that those types of

topics and discussions should be had and taught at home instead of in a classroom,” Amy says.

Amy also wants to utilize conservative, fiscal

responsibility to deal with

rapid growth in our school

district. The City of Denton consists of 100 square

miles while Denton ISD

consists of 200 square miles. The district itself consists of

approximately 32,000 students. “Denton

ISD is the largest ISD in the county,” Amy says.

Because of the

number of students

that attend Denton

ISD, Amy realizes that

college might not be

the option chosen for

each and every child that

graduates from our school

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programs that are going to help students

as fire and EMT programs. “I’d love to see partnerships and internships for students with different businesses around our local community,” Amy says.

Amy wants to provide skills in the

classroom that are going to be relevant and useful for today as well as 10 years from now. With the experience that

Amy has in learning and leadership development, Amy wants to ensure

that students are able to receive and

understand skills that are going to help them become employable.

As a parent of a child that attends Denton

ISD, it is important to Amy that the parents of our students feel heard. “My phone is

always on and open to a parent who has

concerns,” Amy says. And because of this, Amy’s theme for her campaign is fitting to her as a family-oriented parent.

“A vote for me is a vote for family and for the future.”

And it’s safe to say that Amy has proven that her first priority is making sure that the children of our generation have a bright future ahead of them.

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Amazing ‘Central’ Arizona

by Terri Guthrie | photos courtesy of Terri Guthrie

S

mack dab in the center of Arizona, you’ll find some of my favorite areas in this amazing state! We’ve been visiting here since we lived in Phoenix back in the 80s, and it still calls our name. It’s really easy to get to…just fly to Phoenix and drive north!

Clarkdale is a fun destination in the Verde Valley with old western mining roots.

There, you will find the Arizona Copper Art Museum and the famous Verde Canyon Railroad, which offers a four-hour picturesque ride in a classic locomotive.

Nearby is the National Monument, Tuzigoot. This is one of the fascinating ancient ruins of the Sinagua People, dating back 1,000 years!

Jerome is an old mining town that sits high on a hillside with stunning panoramic views of the Verde Valley. It’s known as “The Largest Ghost Town in America.”

This area boomed into a Billion Dollar

Travel: Ask The Expert

Copper Camp seemingly overnight!

Once called the “Wickedest Town in the West,” Jerome now features museums, shops, galleries, and great restaurants like the Haunted Hamburger!

Sedona is known as “Red Rock Country” and is one of Arizona’s most popular destinations. It’s set against dramatic, red rocks and cliffs and is an outdoor lover’s paradise — especially for hikers!

Accommodations range from inexpensive to luxurious spa resorts and spiritual retreats. We love the Chapel of the Holy Cross, a Catholic chapel that is built high

into the red buttes. Another favorite is Tlaquepaque – an iconic Sedona Arts and Crafts Village. The architecture is beautiful as well as the numerous towering sycamore trees!

Oak Creek Canyon is a gorgeous river gorge only four miles upstream from Sedona. Driving through the canyon is an adventure with lots of switchbacks and breathtaking views. This has to be one of the most dramatic drives in the entire U.S. amidst the stately red rock formations, lush green canyon vegetation, and Oak Creek’s pristine waters!

And these are just a few of the reasons why Arizona is so amazing!

FOLLOW “TRAVEL WITH TERRI” ON INSTAGRAM, FACEBOOK, AND YOUTUBE. | TRAVELWITHTERRI@CHARTER.NET

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APRIL 2021 | LANTANA LIVING | 43

HIDDEN GEM A

by Jade Kensington | photos courtesy of Jade Kensignton

THE PICTURESQUE TWIN COVES PARK AND CAMPGROUND IS FLOWER MOUND’S HIDDEN PARADISE.

W

ith warm weather right around the corner, it is time to start planning outdoor summer activities! Twin Coves Park and Campground is a must-have on everyone’s bucket list, whether it is for a day trip or a mini staycation away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. There is sure to be something for everyone.

Nestled in the heart of Flower Mound, Twin Coves is located on 243 acres on the north shore of Grapevine Lake. “Twin Coves Park and Campground is the perfect getaway destination,” states Twin Coves Park Manager, Brian Vonderlin. “Twin Coves Park offers a variety of overnight accommodations including primitive tent sites, lakeside RV sites, and rustic cabins. Other park amenities include a boat ramp and

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courtesy dock, hike and bike trails, kayak rentals, grass volleyball court, modified disc golf course, playground, and other outdoor games.”

There are 22 RV sites available, as well as six primitive tent camping sites. Visitors can rent a single or tandem kayak to explore Grapevine Lake to their heart’s content. Additionally, there is a fishing pier by the kayak launch for the fishing enthusiasts. There are also several pavilions on-site for events and reunions.

is a two-night minimum on weekends (Friday through Sunday) and a 3-night minimum for holidays.

According to the Town of Flower Mound’s website, a daily usage fee of $10 per

vehicle is required to enter Twin Coves.

This is only the beginning of the wide array of amenities at Twin Coves. The scenic 22.5-mile

They have annual passes available to

With three ways to enter the trail—in Rockledge Park, Twin Coves Park, or Murrell Park—the

$75. These passes can be purchased on-

lake shore is also accessible via the park. These nationally-registered trails are managed

reservations for cabin, RV, and/or camping

explored on horseback along approximately nine miles of equestrian trails.

Flower Mound’s website. Full details on

Northshore Trail is among one of the most visited hiking and biking trails in North Texas.

residents for $45. Non-resident passes are

trail offers up beautiful views from the lake’s shores. The 13.1-mile Knob Hill Trail along the

site at the park gate or at the office. Online

by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Additionally, the lake’s north shore can be

sites can be made through the Town of

There are 19 cabins available for rent at Twin Coves, each equipped with a private master

bedroom with a queen bed and a fully stocked kitchen with a microwave/convection oven, cooktop, refrigerator, and dishwasher. Furthermore, eight are lofted cabins and are called “Tumbleweed,” for parties up to six people. They have a queen bed in the loft area and a

foldout queen-sized sofa. Eight cabins are “Hill Country,” which accommodates up to five guests. They have a room with a set of twin bunkbeds and a twin-sized foldout loveseat.

Two cabins are called “Honeysuckle” and accommodate up to three guests. Lastly, there is one “Stillwater” cabin, which is renowned as Twin Coves’ “presidential suite” with high-end finishes such as a farmhouse sink and stainless-steel appliances.

amenities and park rules and regulations can also be found on the website.

The picturesque Twin Coves Park and

Campground is Flower Mound’s hidden paradise and gives visitors a similar

taste of being in Broken Bow but having the luxury of being a short drive away.

This saves most North Texans about a

six-hour drive round trip. With plenty of

“Tumbleweed” and “Hill Country” cabins start at $160 per night, “Stillwater” cabins

opportunities to get in the water and take

discount for seniors (65 and up), active military, and current Flower Mound residents. There

something for everyone at Twin Coves.

start at $145, and the “Honeysuckle” cabin starts at $130. Twin Coves offers a 10 percent

in the scenic Grapevine Lake, there is

TWIN COVES PARK AND CAMPGROUND IS THE PERFECT GETAWAY DESTINATION.

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Home Decorating: Ask The Expert

Ways to Bring

IN SPRING

the first trash bag as recycled trash

(magazines, dog eared books, glass,

etc.) and trash bag two as trash. I think you are getting the picture by now.

3. Now, go through the room and ask

yourself these three critical questions: • Do I love this item?

• Do I use this item?

by Allison Fifer, POSH Home Staging & Redesign

• Does this item fit the style or vision I am trying to create?

If the item does not meet at least TWO

of those qualifications, place it in its most appropriate bin. For those items that

you “only love” or ”only use once yearly,”

consider placing them in storage as they don’t fit regular use and probably won’t

R

efreshing your home for the spring is easy as 1-2-3-4 — four quick ways to bring in spring include freshening a space with branches and flowers, swapping out pillows with colorful spring patterns, updating your bedding with light colored linens, and adding splashes of color using accessories.

Another touch to bringing in spring is to keep in mind that “Less is More.” This is also key when staging or decorating one’s home. It’s very difficult for people to see the great stuff that you own when there is too much of it! Whether staging your home to sell, or redesigning rooms for yourself, the maxim less is more almost always applies!

Getting rid of extra stuff is not as hard as it seems. In fact, there are plenty of places that would love to have it and will give you money for it! The Internet makes this very easy for you, as well as local consignment shops of all varieties.

Here is my three-step process for finding good homes for your excess belongings while being very Green in the process:

be needed to stage your home.

For your finishing touches, below is a

kitchen Spring cleaning checklist. Follow

us on Instagram @posh_home_staging or on Facebook @POSHHomeStaging for a checklist which also includes your bedrooms and bathrooms.

KITCHEN •

Dust tops of cabinets

•

Wipe down front of cabinets

• • • • • • • 1. First, grab three large plastic bins and two trash bags.

2. Label the first bin as Goodwill, the second as Re-sell using Facebook, Craigslist, eBay, or Consignment (whichever is easiest for you to use).

Label the third bin as Storage. Label

• • • • • • • •

Clean cabinet shelves

Dust top of refrigerator

Wipe down front refrigerator Vacuum refrigerator coils Get rid of expired items

Wipe stove top and oven

Clean inside the microwave Scrub and disinfect sink Clean backsplash

Scrub and disinfect counter Clean garbage disposal Clean windows

Clean light fixtures/bulbs Dust AC/Heat registers

Vacuum and mop floors

940.765.2684 | POSHHOMESTAGING.COM | ALLISON@POSHHOMESTAGING.COM

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APRIL 2021 | LANTANA LIVING | 47

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 and

of a gift as well, perhaps a well-deserved

outing. Go to a restaurant where

or a relaxing spa retreat? Many of your

take her to a park or on some kind of 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.

Quality Time: Focused and undivided attention

spent together. This is by far the most

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

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

48 | LANTANA LIVING | APRIL 2021

your presence (hugging, handholding,

Languages®, it can be found at any

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APRIL 2021 | LANTANA LIVING | 49

Business Spotlight

YOUR SPA

EXPERIENCE Is All In The Family

by Steve Gamel | photography by Miranda Longoria Photography

I

f you’ve ever visited Sutera Spa in Flower Mound, you likely swore after your very first visit that this was hands down the best spa experience of your life and that you’d never go anywhere else. But all these years later, you keep hearing about this new luxury med spa down the road called SpaVela. You’d like to give it and their expanded services a try — especially with Mother’s Day coming up — but you can’t help but feel like you’d be cheating on your friends at Sutera.

Stacey Maness and Luane McWhorter have co-owned Sutera for the past 17 years and want you to give the new place a try. After all, they own Sutera and SpaVela — and it’s time you take advantage of what both can offer.

“We want our clients to be at both.

No matter which one you go to, you’re going to get 5-star service and love your experience,” Maness said. “Maybe you do some services at [Sutera] and others at [SpaVela] — and that’s OK. We want both of them to

thrive, and the clients will like both because of the unique experience each one provides.”

McWhorter agreed.

“We have people right now who are visiting both,” she said.

Sutera is still offering all the same day spa services you’ve come to know and love, including massages, facials, waxing, and body treatments.

SpaVela has all of that, too, but with the added benefit of luxury med spa

MASSAGES | FACIAL TREATMENTS | BODY TREATMENTS | INJECTIONS | WAXING | MED SPA 50 | LANTANA LIVING | APRIL 2021

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and beauty services that have set a new bar for the industry. The new 5,000 square foot facility, located in the eye-catching 150-acre Lakeside development in Flower Mound, offers everything from therapeutic and hot stone massage to Hydrafacial, Botox and Restylane Silk injections, B12 shots, skin pen, microdermaplaning with a peel, and more.

There are 11 treatment rooms at SpaVela, including three for couples massages and facials — creating a perfect match for any of your special Mother’s Day plans. They also have saunas and steam rooms in both the men’s and women’s locker rooms and complimentary valet parking. With all those amenities under one roof, how can you go wrong?

“Most spas aren’t going to have that much space,” McWhorter said. “For something like Mother’s Day, we will, of course, make the day special with special treats like

Mimosas, non-alcoholic drinks, chocolate, and promotions.”

It’d be crazy not to take Maness and McWhorter’s word for it. Over the past 20 years, they’ve been inseparable friends and business partners while entrenching themselves as trusted beauty queens of

Denton County and beyond.

While they went into business together with Sutera and SpaVela, McWhorter also owns Grand Spa in Dallas. The same medical director that oversees Grand Spa in Dallas also oversees SpaVela, and their staff is certified and has years of experience.

If you want to give your mind, body, and soul a vacation, the only places you need to go are Sutera and SpaVela.

“It really is all in the family,” Maness said. “Some might feel like they are cheating by going to the other one, but it’s really not that way at all. You actually get a more well-rounded experience by going to both.”

469.549.4914 | SpaVelaFlowerMound.com | info@spavela.com | 2800 Lakeside Pkwy., Ste. 100 • Flower Mound, 75022 www.LiveLocalMagazines.com

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TIME TO GET TO

Gardening: Ask The Expert

WORK

by PJ Kratohvil, Owner of Complete Solutions

W

e’ve had some cool mornings and are probably in store for a few more.

Nevertheless, spring is approaching! We know everyone’s in the process of freeze damage repairs, plant replacements, and general damage control from the past couple of months. So let’s focus this article on information that should be helpful in the preparations of your own lawn and landscape for this spring season.

Texas winters can have you looking at a lawn full of weeds about now. If so, and you’re not ready to call the chemical

company just yet, then let’s get to work!

For immediate results, find a point and spray post-emergent (add some color

so you can track what you’ve covered as you go). Your first pre-emergent should

have been down a few weeks ago. If not,

don’t waste time back-tracking. Stick with the spray treatments (most retail sprays are going to be recommended on a

bi-weekly basis) and consistent bagged

mowings. As the grass starts to turn, train it to a conservative watering schedule, consistent chemicals, and mowing.

It’s simple, but the consistency is KEY. Do this, and you will see results.

If things weren’t cleaned up in late fall, then get it all cut back, reshaped, and ready for that spring growth. If you haven’t taken the time to remove the old mulch before adding new for the last couple of growing seasons, then do so this year.

Make sure you cultivate the bed soil and add fertilizer while it’s exposed. Our soil can get hard over the course of a year.

Turning it over and allowing oxygen and nutrients to really penetrate is always a good idea. If you’re buying new mulch, consider your plant needs, sun exposure, and soil conditions. Color typically dictates

Your first preemergent should have been down a few weeks ago.

If not, don’t waste time back-tracking, stick with the spray treatments... what direction people go, but there are so many other benefits to consider than just aesthetics.

There’s a lot going on this time of year when it comes to spring landscape prep.

If you’re a do-it-yourselfer, then you’ve probably already got a plan in place.

If not, get on it or call a professional before it’s too late.

EXTERIOR: 214.735.1363 | COMPLETESOLUTIONSDFW.COM

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APRIL 2021 | LANTANA LIVING | 55

K

athy O’Keefe is a remarkable woman. She’s exceedingly compassionate, sharp as a tack, and she can recall the smallest numerical details from events that happened years ago. She is also Flower Mound’s self-proclaimed “Drug Lady.”

After the drug-related death of her son, O’Keefe founded the 501c3 organization Winning the Fight in 2011 to provide drug education to Flower Mound’s youth and to provide resources to families struggling with the disease of addiction.

“On March 20, 2010, we lost our 18-year-old to an accidental overdose of Xanax and heroin,” O’Keefe said.

“God immediately said, ‘You need to do something.’”

After her son, Brett O’Keefe, overdosed three times, was hospitalized and attended rehabilitation programs, Kathy O’Keefe found that she - and her community - were in dire need of practical, informative drug education.

“We took a breath, and we realized that we lacked education, we lacked support, we lacked resources. It created isolation,” she said. “We brought a strategic plan to the community and said, ‘What do you need?’ Ultimately, we needed a conduit between kids and resources.”

Winning the Fight

by Rebecca Beer | photo of group by Kathy O’Keefe

56 | LANTANA LIVING | APRIL 2021

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In 2010, O’Keefe said that despite three teens dying from heroin use within a few miles of one another, Flower

Mound didn’t have a narcotics unit

specifically designed to investigate

incidents involving narcotics. Eventually, a massive DEA investigation led to the

indictment of 17 individuals for heroinrelated crimes.

“I thought, ‘Something big is going

on here,’” she said. “Kids were dying so quickly.”

WTF exists as a pipeline that connects

schools, parents, and kids to potentially life-saving information. In August 2014, WTF released its first documentary

entitled, “Not Me.” O’Keefe said 641 parents, adolescents, and members

of school administration attended the film’s screening. Since then, WTF has

Photo names from the front: Kathy Duke (President), Chris Robinson, Kathy O’Keefe (Executive Director and Founder). Back: Michael Hall, Cassandra Forest, Missy Distel, Mark DeWitt and Crystal Godsey

released two other documentaries

detailing the real life danger and issues behind drug use.

Recognizing the vital part mental health plays in reducing drug use, WTF staff

“Our most recent documentary is called

and volunteers provided 313 referrals to

shown it at McKinney high schools and

facilities to ensure adequate resources

‘Just Once,’” O’Keefe said. “We’ve

middle schools for two semesters.”

O’Keefe emphasized that drug

education needs to start earlier than when many parents think.

“This conversation needs to be in middle school,”

she said. “We also need to pay attention to

mental health. We have

to start paying attention to why kids are

mental health professionals, visited 26

are provided, and attended 18 seminars

focused on mental health in 2019 alone.

“There are lots of really good things that

happen, but you’re battling Satan,” O’Keefe said. “It’s a horrid

If you NEED me, CALL me.

self-medicating.”

O’Keefe believes school may

have been a major factor in her son’s self-medication with drugs.

“Brett hated school because his

battle. It’s exhausting.”

Another aspect of WTF’s mission is providing

resources specifically

to parents in families

affected by drug use.

The organization hosts a

revitalization retreat geared

toward parents of children

suffering from drug dependence.

stigma of addiction that often

exacerbates drug use and leads to further loneliness.

“Our biggest thing is don’t sit in

isolation,” she said. “If you have a

problem, come forward, get help.

You don’t need to be alone.”

O’Keefe said families can

request help by contacting WTF via wtf-winningthefight.org.

You can also request help by calling

the number listed on WTF’s website O’Keefe’s personal cell number.

“My phone number’s everywhere,” she said. “If you need me, call me. If you’re in a jam, call me.

Just reach out.”

The one-day retreat has five different

Despite leading a group dedicated

feelings and experiences.

youth for the past 10 years, O’Keefe

therapies to help parents process their

ADHD made it difficult for him to

“These parents have PTSD,” O’Keefe

a point where he didn’t want to go

hours of the night expecting a phone

work,” she said. “His anxiety grew to

said. “You know, they’re waking up at all

to school anymore.”

call saying their kid is in jail or dead.”

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O’Keefe hopes to fight the

to saving the lives of its community’s insists that she’s simply dedicated to a higher purpose.

“I didn’t do this,” she said. “God is doing this. He’s just using me.”

APRIL 2021 | LANTANA LIVING | 57

Every Bite Count Make

by Dr. Rebecca Butler (Lantana Resident), Board Certified in Pediatrics by the American Board of Pediatrics

E

very five years, the Federal civil rights law, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) releases new/ updated dietary guidelines for people of all ages. As a pediatrician, I get the most questions regarding the 12 months to two-year time frame when they are discontinuing breast milk or formula and transitioning to regular table foods.

Developmental Readiness for

As most know, you should exclusively feed infants human milk for the first six months of life. Continue to feed infants human milk through at least the first year of life and longer if desired. Feed infants ironfortified infant formula during the first year of life when human milk is unavailable.

When exclusively breastfeeding, it is important to provide infants with supplemental vitamin D beginning soon after birth (By at least one month of age).

Zinc-rich complementary foods (e.g.,

infants develop the gross motor, oral, and

are important from age six months

complementary foods. As an infant’s oral

which supports growth and immune

foods can gradually be varied.

Around 4-6 months of age, we start to introduce infants to nutrient-dense complementary foods. Studies have shown that at six months, the introduction of infants to potentially allergenic foods along with other complementary foods helps to prevent food allergies.

half (54%) of U.S. infants fed human milk

Encourage infants and toddlers to consume a variety of foods from all food groups. Include foods rich in iron and zinc, particularly for infants fed human milk.

The age at which infants reach different

developmental stages will vary. Typically, between ages of four and six months,

meats, beans, zinc- fortified infant cereals)

fine motor skills necessary to begin to eat

onwards to support adequate zinc status,

skills develop, the thickness and texture of

function. Although the zinc content of

Signs that an infant is ready for

human milk is initially high and efficiently

absorbed, the concentration declines over

complementary foods include: •

Being able to control head and neck.

•

Sitting up alone or with support.

•

Bringing objects to the mouth.

have inadequate zinc intake. Prioritizing

•

Trying to grasp small objects, such as

age to complement human milk feedings

•

Swallowing food rather than pushing

the first six months of lactation and is not affected by maternal zinc intake. During

the second half of infancy, approximately

zinc-rich foods starting at six months of

will help infants meet their requirement for zinc.

Avoid foods and beverages with added sugars.

Limit foods and beverages higher in sodium.

940.455.7200 | LantanaPediatrics.com 74 McMakin Rd., Ste. 100 • Bartonville, TX 76226

Mon, Tues, Thurs: 7:30am-6pm | Wed: 7:30am-1pm | Fri: 7:30am-5pm Sat: 9am-12pm

58 | LANTANA LIVING | APRIL 2021

Beginning to Eat Solid Foods

toys or food.

it back out onto the chin.

Calorie level ranges: Energy levels are calculated based on median length and body weight reference individuals. Calorie needs vary based on many factors. The DRI Calculator for Healthcare Professionals, available at usda.gov/fnic/dri-calculator, can be used to estimate calorie needs based on age, sex, and weight.

This is an excerpt of some helpful guidelines, and you can read the entire document at DietaryGuidelines.gov. Talk with your pediatrician about your child’s appropriate nutritional needs.

CALL TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT!

RAPID AND PCR TESTING AVAILABLE

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J

Organizing: Ask The Expert

The

I

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, Owner of Cloud Nine Organizing

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.

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 might also have valuable stuff you could one day use, but never do because you can’t find it!

It’s totally fine to have a catchall drawer for handy, useful items, but let’s talk about how to make better use of that junk drawer. Junk, by definition, is useless and of little value. Utility items, on the other hand, are useful and beneficial.

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 junk drawer(s).

•

Sort everything into two piles – useful & not useful. Get rid of all the not useful items immediately.

In other words, get rid of all the junk.

•

Sort your useful items: group all similar items together.

•

Pay attention to how many similar items you have. If you have duplicates, consider downsizing. For instance, do you really need 50 black Sharpies?

Probably not.

•

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

•

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

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