Life in Castle Hills Magazine November 2017

Striking the RIGHT NOTE

SIGNING DAY Hebron & The Colony

It’s Time TO TRY A TRI

NOVEMBER 2017

LLC

CONSIGNMENT STORE • ESTATES • DIRECT BUY

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

November 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 3

How to

serve your community this Holiday Season

by Susan Neuhalfen

D

uring the holiday season, we urge

the community to buy local and keep

the money here. It’s no different when

it comes to donating. Many people are

Cloud9 Charities Started by Kim Cloud Skidmore of Cloud 9 Spa and Salon, they raise money

hesitant to give to large organizations

for charities that serve women and

executive’s salary instead of the one

#bedtimerescue where donors are asked

year, it would be a good idea to donate

a week at the Econolodge (at a huge

for fear that their money will go into an

families. Their fastest growing cause is

person who really needs it. Maybe this

to put up a homeless family in need for

right here at home. Here are just a few

great North Texas based charities that are in need of your time and money to help area residents this holiday season.

discount). That week gives the family time to focus and make long term plans without having to worry about where they’ll stay. There are counselors available to help them find work or to mentor them.

CISNT Communities in Schools in North Texas (CISNT) is a multi-faceted organization whose purpose is to keep kids from dropping out of school. Their various programs help 5,000 students in seven school districts including LISD Their many programs such as Project Prom and WISE help students to afford things that many of us take for granted. There are many different projects within this organization where citizens may volunteer their time, talents and money. http://cisnt.org/

https://cloud9charities.org/ Sadie’s Sleigh Sadie Keller is a resident of North Texas and an inspiration to all. In the midst of her treatment for Leukemia, Sadie started “Sadie’s Sleigh”, a charity that delivers toys to the kids being treated for cancer and blood disorders at Children’s Medical Center Dallas. https://www. sadiekellerfoundation.org/

Ranch Hands Rescue RHR is an area farm animal rescue center and sanctuary that provides mental

health counseling for children suffering from traumatic life experiences. They

partner the children with the rescued

animals under the guidance of a Licensed

Professional Counselor (LPC) in counseling sessions. These special animals that have been abused or neglected have a way of

reaching the children in ways that people don’t. http://ranchhandrescue.org/

Castle Hills Fall Festival

4 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS

| November 2017

November 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 5

CastleHillsMagazine.com

Dear NFL: What Do We DO?

Publisher & Editor Scott & Kelly Murray

Administration

Managing Editor Jana Melton Sub-Editor Bobbi Byrne Savannah Halfmann

Staff Writer

Susan Neuhalfen

Contributor Steve Gamel

Advertising Manager

Mendy Lea 214.228.5052 mendy@murray-media.com

Production

Art Director Liz Wallace Graphic Designers Stephanie Hansen Caroline Brock

M

y father loved the game of football. He played when men played because they loved the

game. Back then, most of those men who played professionally had a second job

because it wasn’t enough to pay the bills.

Even Roger Staubach worked as a real

Photography

Your Candid Memories 469. 583.2819 yourcandidmemories.com

Letters

Life in Castle Hills invites reader feedback, story suggestions and general comments.

Email artwork@murray-media.com.

All submissions become the sole property of

estate broker during the offseason while

playing for the Cowboys. He had a family to provide for and football was not a stable job in the 1970s.

I loved football mostly because I loved and respected my dad so much.

This will mark my second Thanksgiving

without football and the fifth Thanksgiving without my father. Since Colin Kaepernick

Murray Media Group.

Editorial and Advertising Inquiries Call 972.899.3637

or email artwork@murray-media.com www.Murray-Media.com

Address: 1011 Surrey Lane Building 100, Ste. 101

Flower Mound, TX 75022 Life in Castle Hills is published monthly

by Murray Media Group. Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher. Life in Castle Hills 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. © 2017 Murray Media Group

began his protest, football has lost its magic for me. Like most Americans, I

have protested back by not supporting

sponsors and not watching the games. It

has impacted the sponsors as well as the NFL’s bottom line and they are reacting because, after all, football is now a business before it’s a game.

I can’t help but ask myself, what are we DOING? I think that’s the problem. We aren’t DOING anything. For years we’ve heard about “having a conversation” but it took losing viewers, money and sponsors to take that first step. What was the result of the first meeting between players and owners? Darned if I know.

Football should be a uniting factor, not a dividing factor. We should be working together to solve our problems as a nation instead of using entertainment as a platform to further divide us.

Unfortunately, all of the entertainment industry seems to want to divide us. The truth is, they are all about protesting and drawing attention to themselves. I have yet to hear any of them come forward with a solution or even a request.

I believe the ball (so to speak) is in the court of the NFL players. You have our attention.

What do you want us to DO?

Sincerly, Susan Neuhalfen

Writer and Editor for Life in Castle Hills, Argyle Living, Lantana Living, Lake Cities Living Susan@murray-media.com 972.899.3637 Ex. 101 6 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS

| November 2017

Table of

Contents

16

On the Cover Lisa Key of Lisa’s Resale Gone Upscale

Featured: Making History Beautiful Again Lifestyle

Family

10 The Perfect Gift for Her

24 Inside Community

12 Gardening with Complete Solutions 14 Makeover of the Month

Yourself

25 Inside Education

08 Editor’s pick:

Striking the Right Note

How to Serve Your Community This Holiday Season

04

26 Hebron Volleyball: Rollins Named All - American 27 Counseling with Lifeworks 28 Hebron High Signing Day

18 It’s Time to Try a Tri

30 The Colony Signing Day

20 Nutrition with Savory Bistro

Photos

22 Edit This with Steve Gamel

04 Fall Fest November 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 7

Lifestyle

g n i rik t

St righ the

e t o n half n Neu

a

by Sus

en

bout ed a n r a t le t I firs siden hen lls re i H was I e l hev, Cast c n u ard K ed Edw ason d is se h t orke t ad w mee h o t e h ed ll, hirty excit ter a ost t n. Af m l t a i a c r i fo ncer mus nally as, co r o i e ns s p a s i no sic profe ing i s mu g u n o i s s, fam hat I year ther ith o rld. W o w s w l eone hal the s som over a l l w a ing and pect ’t ex n s a w ating ung. fascin a is so yo s a vh rns. H nche nd tu u r a K s t g d s r sin e twi Edwa ined a r many t h y t l i al w assic story s a cl a w r fathe

W

escape communism by hiding on top of a car and entering what was known as Yugoslavia at the time. He eventually made his way to Canada and met Edward’s mother and together they moved their two young sons to Texas.

Though Edward’s father never got the chance to sing professionally, he trained Edward classically in a style known as bel canto. It is a technique that helps a singer learn proper

photography by Angela Cheryl Photography

from Bulgaria who was forced to

breathing and voice technique. Though it works well for classical and opera training, it works well for anyone who wants to sing any style of music. It is also great for teaching speaking techniques and acting.

“Because I know this technique, I have been able to complete several musical tours without straining my voice,” said

At the age of 16, people started

“When you’re in the chorus of an opera

for more training though he had to travel

about his experience. “The things I’ve

recognizing his talent and he was ready to find it. He searched through several

different universities before he connected with Sheila Jones Harms, a retired opera

singer from Vienna who had trained at the Royal College.

Edward. “So many people lose their voice they are not properly trained.”

Edward trains his clients in a more progressive form of the "bel canto" technique that he has put together over the

“She is the

years to incorporate

base of a lot

all styles and genres

in church and leading worship services and even won several Christian singing awards. When he was 13, he performed at the Shannon Auditorium in Fort Worth with Leann Rhimes. In his first time performing with a live band he sung mostly George Strait music.

“It was our own little Grand Ol’ Opry,” said Edward. “It was a wonderful ting to do at that age and we were there every week performing for the crowds for about a year.”

students to learn his style of bel canto while still performing on the side.

“If you are taught correctly, you can sing for hours on end, that’s what I teach my

students,” said Edward. “It’s not just about singing. It’s about preserving your voice for the rest of your life.“

her the credit for that.”

public speakers.

and styles of music. He started by singing

studio in Castle Hills and started helping

fondly. “I really give

personalities and

Edward himself has sung many forms

in music and journalism he opened up a

said Edward

also trained actors, radio

could be further from the truth.”

he will. After he graduated with a degree

musicianship,”

and The Voice. He has

think I only teach classical music. Nothing

Tevye as well as training with so many

language and

been on American Idol

singing technique,” said Edward. “People

career from playing Genghis Kahn to

in both

clients who have

find their natural voice as well as a solid

Edward could write a book about his

of my training

of singing. He has

“My version of bel canto will help singers

learned you cannot learn in a book.”

famous musicians, and hopefully one day

“If you are taught correctly, you can sing for hours on end, that’s what I teach my students,”

when they are on tour, but it is because

you’re in a position to listen,” he said

Edward went on a life journey between 1990-2002 where he would get an

education that could never be found in a classroom. He wanted to meet opera

singers because he wanted to work with them. He traveled to Vienna, Germany,

Italy, Bulgaria and many more places all

over Europe and stayed with friends while getting a top-notch education.

“I wanted to see an opera in Verona and

managed to get into Arena di Verona and

watched Aida,” he said. “It was so different than what we experience in the US, there is nothing like it.”

One thing about Edward that is truly odd yet very refreshing is his lack of ego.

While many musicians might be put out

about singing in the chorus, Edward looks at every experience as an opportunity to learn.

November 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 9

Lifestyle

The Perfect Gift for Her

by Susan Neuhalfen

A

sk any woman what is a staple in her closet and she won’t hesitate to tell you that it’s leggings.

They’re comfortable and perfect for almost any outfit. Wear them under a dress, dress them up with a tunic or just wear them with your favorite t-shirt.

We’ve recently discovered Brava Fitwear which is not only great for every outfit, you can wear them to work out. They are one size fits all, making them the perfect gift for any woman in your life. The fabrics and materials are comfortable and durable, not to mention crazy cool, with styles from Wonder Woman to skulls to solids.

Made of 100% Columbian supplex, power lycra and fast dry technologies, Brava Fitwear leggings are flexible, durable and come with booty lifting technology.

Find them on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ bravafitwear Instagram: @bravafitwear www.bravafitwear.com

“If you have a booty, they will fit,” said Brava Fitwear founder and owner Danielle Cornett. “Plus they have a waistband comfortable with a low waist.”

The best part is that you can create a custom design for your business or group and Brava Fitwear will print it. They also carry super cool baseball caps to complete the look.

10 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS

| November 2017

photos courtesy of Brava Fitwear

that can be folded down if you’re more

November 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 11

Lifestyle | Gardening

Lawn Maintenance for Texas Winters G

rass growth is starting to slow down, temperatures and leaves are starting fall. It must be

November in Texas. As we’re preparing

to deal with the cooler temps, there are many things to start thinking about in

preparation of your landscaped spaces.

There is too much going on this time of year to let these things stress you out.

We've put together a short list of common questions and answers to ensure you're prepared for whatever this winter has

down roller coaster of a Texas

What can I plant that will put some

winter. Winter is a good time

color in my beds without dying after

to assess your landscaping,

the first freeze?

figure out where the blah

Winter isn't time to

areas are and consider

ignore your landscape,

your options. Cedar

in fact both rooted and

trellises, stone seating

bare rooted plants do

areas, pots and all type of

well when newly planted

rock accents are good ways

in the winter. It’s a good

idea to get your larger plantings

(30-100gal) in the ground so they can

to get creative within your bed

spaces giving it that final finishing

touch. Sometimes the greatest focal

points of your landscape are not plants at

in store.

all but rather the hardscapes they

Can I just cut the sprinklers back or do I need to shut

are supporting.

them off completely and winterize my system?

Which one of these trees can I go ahead and

Reduce watering back to once or twice

cut back and how much can I take off without

per week and shorten the runtime per

causing damage?

zone. This will not only be adequate for

your planting but should also save you a

As long as temperatures remain above

our temperatures are going to get below

most all of your trees, shrubs and

controller to the off position, close and

will reduce on overgrowth too early

lines not deeper than 12 inches. Freezing

space more organized throughout the

little on the monthly irrigation budget. If

32°F, winter is a great time to prune

freezing it's a good idea to turn your

roses. Getting things cut back now

wrap valves, and drain water from any

in the spring and help keep your bed

temperatures can cause water/ice to expand, eventually breaking your pipes and leading to costly repairs. If you're familiar

spring rolls around so that they

are not affected by the early heat. It's also a good rule

enough with your system

of thumb to ensure you

to go ahead and prep for

have at least 2 inches

winter than do so. If not,

of mulch in your beds

sometimes it's a good

to help regulate soil

idea to call an a irrigation

temperatures and keep

professional to ensure

things are done properly.

12 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS

start to establish themselves before

| November 2017

things as consistent as

possible through the up-and-

growing season.

Hope this helps with getting your property ready for the winter months. As always, we appreciate all the support and we hope

you’re able get outside and enjoy some fresh air.

by PJ Kratohvil of Complete Solutions completesolutionsdfw.com

November 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 13

Lifestyle

Makeover of the Month

Anna Casteen A

nna Casteen was nominated by her sister, Amy, for a makeover.

After eight years of teaching

middle and high school math in New York, Anna has moved back to the area and no one is happier about this than Amy. They do Zumba together twice a week, have game nights and now Amy is helping her get ready for her wedding in February.

On top of all that, Anna is apparently the “coolest aunt ever” to Amy’s daughter.

Anna now teaches at a community

Before

After

college and doesn't have the summer off, only Fridays, so Amy thought a makeover at Cloud 9 would be a perfect way for her to enjoy the summer, even if for only one day.

Facial by esthetician Pauletta Collins Pauletta gave Anna a mini facial to remove dead skin to brighten her appearance and moisture. She also performed an eyebrow wax and tint so that her eyebrows would frame her face for hair and makeup purposes.

Hair and make-up by Taylor Compton Taylor lightened Anna’s hair two levels,

Lindsey Redfern Mills, Pauletta Collins, Taylor Compton and Anna Casteen

Makeover and clothes provided by

Want to be the next Makeover?

Email cloud9salon@cloud9salon.com and tell us why you deserve it!

214.415.4806 • www.cloud9salon.com

14 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS

| November 2017

brighten up her face, in order to match her personality to her new look.

Taylor used Mary Kay make-up provided

by Lindsey Redfern Mills, a pink Cadillac driving Sr. Director with Mary Kay Inc. who wants every woman to feel beautiful in her own skin.

photography by Caroline Simpson

and added a lightning strike in the front to

November 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 15

Making History Beautiful Again

by Susan Neuhalfen

W

ith the holiday season

of mass-produced particleboard,

don’t only bring us items, they bring

quickly approaching, now

have you thought about looking at

us pieces of history complete with

home furnishings with a history?

stories,” said Lisa, who along with

year to get the home decorated and

Think about what a great addition it

her staff, goes to great lengths to

holiday shopping done before guests

would make to your home or office to

research and evaluate each item

arrive. At Lisa’s Resale Gone Upscale

have something solid and beautiful,

carefully before selling. “We enjoy

you will find a large diverse selection

that doesn’t look like

of antiques, reproductions, vintage

everything else.

is the perfect time of the

and modern pieces from some of the finest homes in the area in the form of furniture, art, home décor, memorabilia, instruments, china and more.

Lisa Key of Lisa’s Resale Gone Upscale has a showroom full of oneof-a-kind handpicked treasures. Clients

selling to customers who

“We enjoy selling to customers who truly appreciate the item they purchased from us as much as the previous owner did.”

truly appreciate the item they purchased from us as much as the previous owner did.”

Lisa has one client who didn’t realize how much

Are you are moving into a new house

bring her antiques,

or redecorating a home or office? It

reproductions, vintage and modern

has done until after he revisited the

can be very exciting to find the kind

pieces they want to consign and

storage unit where he had hastily

of pieces that reflect what you love.

look to her to help them sell their

put her belongings after she passed

Instead of searching endless rows

unique pieces globally. “Our clients

away. He found hundreds of pieces

16 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS

| November 2017

traveling his mother

from all over Asia and Europe that

she’d purchased while traveling in the 1940s. Japanese parasols, Chinese

wedding boxes, a painting on batik

from Malaysia and many more pieces

that traveled in a steamer trunk across

Lisa’s Resale also has many

Come shop at Lisa’s Resale

pieces for the outdoors

Gone Upscale and shop for

including solid bronze statues

quality pieces with personality

and fountains that make a

and a history, at a fraction of

bold, yet elegant, statement.

the cost you’d expect. You

the world. These types of items are

She recently had one customer

“Global Room.”

bronze fountain for the entry of

In fact, there are many themed rooms

his plantation home he built in

now displayed a room they call the

in this huge warehouse in Lewisville.

For men there is a “Man Cave” room

who purchased a gorgeous

Pilot Point.

can also visit their website at lisasresalegoneupscale.com. If you don’t see exactly what you’re looking for, talk to Lisa. She can find just about anything you want for that something special that

with everything from vintage nautical

you simply can’t find

equipment for the sailor to decades old collectibles from bars and other

anywhere else.

retail establishments. For women

there are “Treasures for Queens” and

the “Crystal Room” featuring beautiful unique piece china, crystal and many antique furnishings to give rooms

CONSIGNMENT STORE • ESTATES • DIRECT BUY

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character. Some of the furniture dates back centuries, which is why Lisa will

turn to her wood doctor or upholstery expert who specializes in historic

It’s a replica of the fountain inside The courtyard of Gianni

pieces when necessary. Imagine how

Versace’s mansion in Miami

nightstand could turn a guest room

in existence. This intricately

an antique headboard and vintage into a conversation piece. Or what

historical figures had walked across the antique rug that once adorned a beautiful home across the globe decades ago.

Beach and there are very few designed, Greek fountain is now the focal point when you drive into the estate.

214.425.7505

LisasResaleGoneUpscale.com 438 Southfork Dr., Ste. 650 Lewisville, TX 75057 Mon-Fri 11am-6pm • Sat 11am-4pm Closed Sunday

Yourself

It’s TimE

To Try A Tri

by Susan Neuhalfen

I

f you’ve ever thought a triathlon might be in your future, believe it or not, this is the perfect time to start.

“The last triathlon races in the area

“We learned so much after that first

camp,” said Claudia. “Then the second camp came around and we had 40 kids and it just kept growing.”

are all done now until March,” said

The third year over 50 kids showed

Triathlon Level 1 Coach. “The race

camp. She had to hire three other

Lantana resident Claudia Weir, a USA season is March through October,

so this is a great time to start to train.

You really need to stay in physical condition year round.”

up and Fox Sports ran a story on the coaches and max the camp out at 60 kids as well as move their location to the Lewisville Natatorium in order to keep up with the demand.

Claudia was a collegiate swimmer

Claudia, Stefanie, and Elliot are all

6 until 21. Her friend got her to

triathletes. Stefanie specializes in

who swam competitively from age compete in a sprint triathlon with

her and she was hooked. Claudia

even got her father on board and he started triathlons at the ripe young

certified coaches and competitive

training juniors beginning at age 6.

Elliot has helped Claudia coach the

senior group for a year at a half and,

at only 23 years old, the kids really look up to him.

The races for kids are considerably

less than those of an adult. It varies by age, with kids 6-10 yrs: swimming 50100 yds, biking 3 mi and running 1/2

mi. Ages 11-15 swim 200 yards, bike 6 mi and run 1 mi. Claudia finds that

many kids who compete in triathlons, do so because team sports aren’t

necessarily their thing. Parents have

different motivations for signing their children up whether it be to learn to

ride a bike property, run in the correct form or swim for more than one lap.

Claudia talked about one girl who

was a runner but had no swimming

age of 60. He went on to compete

in several IRONMAN races proving that age is not a factor when it comes to triathlons.

Claudia and her partner, Stefanie

coach Elliot Bach, are the coaches of the TriSharks Team, a Lantana-based triathlon training program for kids ages 6 and up. She started about

six years ago by holding an intro to

triathlons camp for kids ages 6-13 in Highland Village where they had 20 kids come and train.

photos courtesy of TriSharks coaching

Lagomarsino, along with assistant

experience. She started off solely running and through team practice, private

coaching and numerous races over the

course of 4 years she’s now on the podium at the adult level.

“We have other girls and boys who are uneasy on a bike,” said Claudia. “We help them develop confidence to compete which translates over to a lot of aspects of their lives.”

The TriSharks Program offers a variety of packages for kids to train depending on the intensity desired as well as the time constraints encountered. For more information visit their website at trisharkscoaching.com.

As for adults, Claudia recommends visiting the USA Triathlon website to find certified triathlon coaches specific to your age group.

“I highly suggest getting a coach who has the knowledge to properly train a

triathlete,” said Claudia. “I have my own

triathlons in 2002. Her father just retired

coach to hold me accountable.”

from triathlons at the age of 82.

Claudia suggests planning out 15 weeks

“So much of it is mental,” said Claudia.

in advance if you’re in relatively good shape to ensure you’re ready for your first event.

“It’s all about training smarter, not harder and not to overtrain,” she continued. “It’s important to get enough rest, proper nutrition and recovery time between races.”

It’s also important to see a

“Working toward personal goals is beneficial for everyone.”

One last advantage Claudia

mentioned was the Claudia finds fact that triathlon is a that many kids who worldwide sport. She compete in triathlons, do and Stefanie plan family so because team sports trips and vacations around competing and aren’t necessarily there’s no limit to how their thing. close or far a triathlon can

doctor before you start any exercise regimen, especially one like a triathlon.

Claudia took some time off and re-started the sport at a disadvantage with an

take you.

“You could compete in a race just about every weekend locally or travel anywhere in the world,” said Claudia. “Triathletes are

auto-immune disorder. She says she is

international people bound by a universal

stronger now than when she started doing

love for the sport.”

November 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 19

Yourself | Nutrition

Foods to Fuel Mental Performance

D

ear Annette: Fall classes are progressing and my kids have a demanding schedule. Is it true that food can affect how they perform in school?

whole food, exercise (both mental and physical). The biggest news is we can shape and change our brains. This is very new and exciting research.

Dear Reader: The new research proves that this is truer than we could have ever imagined. We focus on food for physical health but it may be even truer for mental

The thing that bothers me the most is when I hear parents say “my kids are picky eaters” and they have a diet of soft drinks, high sugar, and processed foods.

and cognitive health. Our brains use 20-30 percent of all our calories. Calories from processed and fried foods hurt the brain, calories from whole foods feed it.

The research shows brains can heal and change. Good diet, exercise and reduction of toxins is key.

Researchers like Dr. Daniel Amen are leading the charge on how the foods we eat affect mood, depression, cognitive ability, memory, and overall brain function.

As it turns out what is good for the heart and body is also good for the brain: clean

Kids are adaptable and can be taught to eat healthy; it must be modeled and encouraged. Their little brains do not have a chance and they certainly will not be working on full potential without healthy foods. Once again the number one thing you can do for your brain for development and healthy aging is to get off processed and fried foods.

Notice the majority are plant-based foods.

Notice how many of these foods that kids love. It is becoming very clear that food truly matters. Did you have any of these

items today to get through your school or work day? Did your children’s brains get any of these foods? The Amen clinics are having great success in treating everything from depression, ADD, memory loss, and even traumatic brain injury. They have had great success working with the NFL and veterans, and have scanned and studied more brains than any other research group. If you are interested in the research, go to www.amenclinics.com.

The lifestyle section on the clinic’s site has a host of recipes to enjoy. Remember when you are feeding your kids you are feeding their bodies and brains.

Sincerely Yours, Annette Doody

Savory Bistro Owner & Wellness Coach

www.thesavoryteam.com

So how do I feed my brain?

The research is clear, processed sugar is a big culprit for depression and overall brain health. Processed, fried foods, and added chemicals and preservatives not only clog up the arteries but it appears the pathways for the brain. Based on the latest research here are some of the best foods for your brain health.

Raw Almonds

Eggs

20 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS

Cashews

Salmon (oily fish)

| November 2017

Walnuts

Apples

Cinnamon

Avocados

Coffee (check out bullet coffee)

Blueberries

Dark chocolate (75% cocoa or higher)

Chicken (lean protein)

Kale, Spinach and Greens

November 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 21

Yourself | Edit This

I Hate Coffee.

But, I Sure Do Love

Coffee Shops.

T

here’s a new Starbucks being built across the street from our neighborhood. When my son

saw it, he said, “Cool! Now you can meet clients here instead of driving to that

other one.” I laughed and said, “That’s

true, but the other one is only five minutes up the road.”

What sticks out from that short

conversation is that even my 10-year-old

son knows how valuable coffee shops are

and coffee shops offer the perfect laidback atmosphere.

5. I can give myself a time limit — How long is it acceptable to hang out at

2. It doesn’t feel like my office — I love

Starbucks? I guess if you’re purchasing

while, I give my creative juices a jolt with

you’re working, you can’t be accused

plenty of beverage options — other than

to spend all day there. I know I don’t. I

my home office. But every once in a

a few items here and there and it’s clear

a change of scenery. There’s free Wi-Fi,

of loitering. But surely you don’t want

coffee, of course — no one bothers me,

and there’s still plenty of room to work.

3. It’s easier for me to work on bigger

typically set a time limit of two or three hours, and that helps me stay on task.

6. It’s a tradition, isn’t it? — Just like all

to my writing and editing business, Edit

projects — Sticking to the previous point

I’d say I stop in at 10 different coffee shops

shop setting, I often save my bigger

some work done.

enterprise features, etc.) for my trips to the

appreciate coffee, but the coffee shop

The funny thing is, I hate coffee. But

in a shorter amount of time, and it doesn’t

cracked up to be.

This®. In the Dallas-Fort Worth area alone, fairly regularly to meet with clients or get

clearly I’m having a writer’s affair with coffee shops.

Here are 6 reasons why:

on feeling more creative in a coffee

writing projects (website content writing,

coffee shop. I end up accomplishing more feel like work.

4. I like to people watch — Sounds

totally creepy, I know. But all creative

1. It’s a convenient meeting spot — The

writers need a muse or different elements

has been taken out of the equation. I just

inspiration. Occasionally, I’ll just watch and

bound to be a Starbucks or smaller coffee

You never know when a good story will

guesswork over where to meet a client

happening around them for added

find a middle ground in town and there’s

listen to everything going on around me.

shop in the vicinity. Clients appreciate

pop up. If you don’t believe me, just give

being able to get away from the office, 22 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS

| November 2017

it a try.

cowboys wear boots and drive pickup trucks, aren’t all writers supposed to

love working in a coffee shop? I may not — for a writer, anyway — is everything it’s Thanks for reading! If you’re in need of an extra set of eyes to look over your next corporate message, blog, website, article, resume, term paper, etc., call Edit This.

by Steve Gamel Edit This 469.360.3611 www.edit-this-npsteve.com

November 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 23

Know

Be in the

Family

Inside Community

Santa on the Square

On December 2, Santa on the Square in downtown Carrollton starts with a

Kids Fun Run (8:30 a.m. registration, 9:30 a.m. start time). All participants will receive a special gift from Santa upon completion, and the opportunity for early access to photos with Santa after the run. Stick around for the FREE event which includes a pictures with Santa and a chance to see a live reindeer.

Craft Bazaar December 9

The Colony High School is holding its first annual Holiday Gift Bazaar. Bring the whole family and get all of your holiday shopping done between 9am and 3pm on Saturday, December 9. The small gym at the high school will be filled with arts, crafts including jewelry, retail and more.

Christmas Parade December 2 The Huffines Auto Dealerships present the Lewisville Christmas Parade on December 2 at 12:30 p.m. The

day begins with a pancake breakfast and photobuttons with Santa at 8am at the MCL Grand, followed by a

Motorcycle Toy Run through Old Town Lewisville at

Pose in a Snow Globe Are you looking for a unique photo opportunity?

Come to downtown Carrollton and take a picture in the Carrollton Snow Globe. This 15 foot globe is a great experience for the whole family. Bring your camera and

11:15am and finally, a good old fashioned parade.

your best smile. It all happens in downtown Carrollton

information go to cityoflewisville.com.

information to go to cityofcarrollton.com.

It’s a great morning of fun for the family! For more

from 11am until 3pm at 1106 S. Broadway St. For more

Inside Education Perfect Attendance = Car For the second year, Hebron High School and Lone Star Toyota of Lewisville will give away a car to a student with perfect attendance over the 2017-2018 school year. One ticket can be earned for perfect attendance during a grading period, plus one additional ticket for no tardies. A total of 10 finalists will be selected and the student whose key starts the engine wins the vehicle.

MLK Be the Change Contest In all LISD schools, the 25th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Art, Essay and Photography Contests is going on now. All work must be original and relate to Dr. King’s ideals, philosophy, principles and incorporate this year’s theme: Embrace Unity: Be the Change! Students in fourth-through-twelfth grade are eligible to participate. Deadline: Friday Dec. 15, 2017. Go to lisd.net for more rules and information.

Events & News November 25th 4-7pm Holiday in the Plaza Activities Include: Photo Op with Santa Christmas Monkey Face Painting Petting Zoo Games Inflatable 66ft Tree Lighting With a Special Performance by the Hebron High School Choir.

photo courtesy of Polser Elementary facebook

Hebron Band was Named 2nd Place at the Bands of America in San Antonio

Educator of the Month Every month the staff at Polser Elementary nominates a deserving staff member as the Educator of the Month. For the month of October, the staff nominated Ms. Morgan, a special education teacher who has been at Polser for almost three years.

Ms. Morgan is known for always going above and beyond for her students and gets rave reviews from all of the parents.

Congratulations Ms. Morgan!

IES Giving Tree The Independence Elementary School Giving Tree will be up on November 27th. Pick an ornament and buy gifts to help make the holidays brighter for an LISD family. This is a great opportunity to teach your kids what the holidays are all about. Pick an ornament and take your children shopping with you to find the perfect gifts for kids in need this holiday season.

The Colony High School Girls Golf Team Finished 3rd Place in The Fighting Farmer Fall Invitational at Indian Creek

November 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 25

Family

Hebron Volleyball:

Rollins

named All-American

by Steve Gamel

H

ebron senior outside hitter Adanna Rollins was recently named a first-team All-American by Under Armour earlier this month.

Rollins, a Minnesota signee, was one of 23 players from Texas to make the list. Teammate Annie Benbow was listed as an honorable mention.

According to a press release from Under

standout player after standout player. The

Brandeis), Briana Garcia (League City

submitted, resulting in 150 All-American

and repeated in 2010, 2015 and 2016.

Koele (The Woodlands), Lydia Niebla (San

Armour, more than 620 nominations were and Honorable Mention All-Americans.

Rollins, along with the rest of the first-team honorees, were automatically invited

program won its first state title in 2004,

Other players from Texas who made the Under Armour All-American

list were Holly Campbell

(Austin Westlake), Capri

to play in the Under

Antonio Reagan), Ryan Palmieri (Austin

Vandegrift), Chloe Robinson (Amarillo), Lauren Teske (Schertz Clemens), and Sophie Walls (The Woodlands).

Davis (Mansfield Lake

Armour All-America

Ridge), E’lan McCall

Volleyball match

(Leander Rouse),

slated for December

Camryn Ennis (San

15 at the Sprint Center

Antonio Reagan), Carly

in Kansas City as part of

Graham (Conroe Oak

Ridge), Ava Bell (Leander

Rollins and Benbow were effective in

Rouse), Katie Clark (Arlington), Whitney

opened in 1999, it has consistently been

Rachel Langs (Lovejoy), Madison Baptiste

leading Hebron this season. Since Hebron regarded as one of the top teams in its classification because of head coach Karen Keeney’s ability to churn out

| November 2017

Foreman (Houston Langham Creek),

(Austin Westlake), Elissa Barbosa (San

Antonio Reagan), Shanel Bramschreiber (Lovejoy), Emily Dewalt (San Antonio

Adanna Rollins

Annie Benbow

photos courtesy of Larry Yates

the 2017 AVCA Convention.

26 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS

Clear Falls), Haley Killinger (Prosper), AJ

How Do You Prevent

Counseling | Family

Holiday Stress?

T

he holiday season is almost upon us and soon the to-do list will get longer. There will be the mandatory

holiday parties, children’s school

performances, shopping for the must have toys of the season and the all-knowing impending stress to have a perfect holiday. The business of the

Another way to keep stress at bay is to

keep things in perspective and remember what is important to your family. Things don’t have to be perfect and children DO NOT have to have the ”it” gift of the season to have a memorable holiday.

In addition, self-care is

holiday season can take a toll on our wellbeing and how we

handle stress.

So how can we handle holiday

stress well and not

let the Grinch steal our holiday joy?

First, setting realistic

Things don’t have to be perfect and children DO NOT have to have the ”it” gift of the season to have a memorable holiday.

expectations about the

holidays can help one be

more flexible and learn to let

the little things go. When mishap occurs such as burnt cookies or having to find

last minute gifts, turn those mishaps into a great family memory. Instead of trying to take on everything, identify what’s most important on the holiday to do

list and take small steps to accomplish those things.

vital when times are more stressful. When we practice selfcare we are then able to handle stressors more effectively and be more present in the important moments.

Several examples of self-care include having restful sleep, saying no when you need to, exercising, taking deep breaths, and, most importantly, prioritizing.

If you would like help with living well, we encourage you to start the conversation.

Live well. Let us help.

by Laura Nelson, MA, LPC Lifeworks businessoffice@lifeworkscc.com

November 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 27

Family

Signing Day

M

any high school athletes sign a letter of intent to commit to play their sport in college. In

high school, there are two major signing days each year, one in November and the other in February. Hebron High School had five athletes sign a letter of intent in the country. Four of these athletes were members of varsity volleyball team.

The following Hebron High School

Students have signed letters of intent: Annie Benbow – Volleyball

Dallas Baptist University Dallas, TX Lauren Merrill – Volleyball College of William and Mary Williamsburg, VA Adanaa Rollins – Volleyball University of Minnesota Minneapolis, MN Serena Shah – Golf

University of San Diego

Southern Methodist University

San Diego, CA

Dallas, TX

28 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS

| November 2017

photography by John Ousby photography

November, committing to schools all over

Carly Earnest– Volleyball

November 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 29

Family

Signing Day

S

igning Day is a very exciting day for high school athletes all over the country. It is the time when they sign their letter of intent to play their sport in college. Four athletes at The Colony High School signed letters of intent at schools in the Midwest. Three are from the baseball team while one is a soccer player.

The following The Colony High School Students have signed letters of intent:Â Baseball Cameron Hill Fort Scott Community College Fort Scott, KS Keegan Sueltz Fort Scott Community College Fort Scott, KS

Soccer Lori Baugh East Central University Ada, OK 30 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS

| November 2017

photos courtesy of TCHS Baseball

Jordan Olivera Hesston College Hesston, KSÂ