NOVEMBER 2020
Mylo’s Journey Back Home Lions, Tigers, and Bears, Oh My! Holiday Tips for Surviving Family
...and more!
VOL. 4
Mylo Draven Siobhan Miller Kristine Bello Siobhan Miller Mylo Draven Kristine Bello Caitlin Knudsen Kira Gavalakis Sakshi Udavant Lee Thompson Sumner Gann SGI Creative SGI Creative Jason Kindig Photography LLC. Madison Hope Photography Ben Bledsoe Web Hosted By Powered by Cascadia
EDITORIAL OFFICE & ADVERTISING INQUIRIES Advertising Executive - Siobhan Miller 92 Piazza Lane Ste. 100, Colleyville, Texas 76034 outreach@mylodraven.com MDDM is published by Mylo Draven Digital Magazine, L.L.C. www.MDDMmagazine.com | hello@MDDMmagazine.com
The opinions expressed in MDDM do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. Although all material is checked for accuracy, no liability is assumed by the publisher for any losses due to the use of this magazine. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored or transmitted in any form without the prior permission of Mylo Draven Digital Magazine L.L.C.
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| TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S
Food, Family, & Fort Worth
9 Check out the goings-on at the Fort Worth Zoo! Mylo and Team MDDM learned all about the connection between wildlife and humanity and we can’t wait to share how YOU can get involved!
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NOVEMBER
Letter From the Editor Mylo’s Favorite Things The Apples of Our Pies The Post at River East Drama Free Holidays with Family Mylo’s Musings Cosmic Donuts Coming Soon!
17 They say that people may admire your strengths, but they connect with you weaknesses. A Mother’s Love is all about perseverance, forgiveness, and most of all, unconditional love.
3 | A LW AY S O N Y O U R S I D E
Always On Your Side A Letter from the Editor
Welcome subscribers and new readers to the latest issue of Mylo Draven Digital Magazine!
2020 has been a difficult year in some way for pretty much everyone worldwide. With that said, there is still so much to be thankful for this year. In America, we can all be thankful for opportunity, and freedom. One of the things I am most thankful for this year is growth: personal and professional. I will take a moment to thank my Creative Director/friend/ chosen family, Siobhan Miller, for all that she does to push me. I couldn’t ask for anyone more protective, caring, and brave to be my left hand at MDDM. I am truly #blessed that she is in my life. While we should all be #thankful on the daily, November really stands out for many in the US of A as the month for gratefulness. Some are thankful for the fact that 2020 only has 61 days left. It seems like the year has flown by when you look ahead to the end of the year. The reality is the repetitious nature of daily life has been somewhat deceptive regarding time moving forward. Some are thankful that in the United States on November 3rd there is a Presidential election, and an opportunity to be heard via the vote. Remember if you want to affect change, or keep the status quo, you must cast a ballot.
4 | A LW AY S O N Y O U R S I D E
Some will be thankful that the 26th of November is Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving is a time where people can express being grateful for the beauty of life, the bounty of family, and all the rest of the blessings they have. I do “30 Days of Thankful” daily posts on my personal Facebook account. I have done this for the past few years. The posts help me to bring gratitude to the forefront of my mind just in case the stresses of daily life have my mind jumbled. I highly suggest that everyone does “30 Days of Thankful.” Whether you keep it private, or share it amongst family and friends, take a moment every day in November, and beyond, to express thankfulness. Remember if no one else tells you, I am on your side.
Mylo Draven EDI TOR - IN - CHIEF
Election Day is Tuesday, November 3rd! To find out where you need to go to go vote,
Click Here!
5 | M Y L O ’ S FAV O R I T E T H I N G S
Mylo’s Favorite Things by Lee Thompson
AMAZON EDITION
elieve it or not, the last three months of the year exist just for human beings to be able to indulge in all things comfort, coziness, cuddles, and warm beverages! We all deserve to feel comfortable, practice self-care, take care of our physical bodies, and just feel good at the end of the day. This year has been extremely challenging for everyone, and that’s why we would love to share some of our favorite mood-support items with you. Hopefully, they can make being at home, just a little more, well... homey.
B
1
Blankets Rolling up into a blanket burrito at the end of a long day is beyond satisfying. Our favorite blanket is made of premium 100% microfiber, and most importantly, affordable! The Bedsure Fleece Blanket will surely gain blanket approval from everyone, retailing for only $14.99 (50"x60"). You can use this blanket as a decorative throw and give your couch an extra flare, or as a bed cover to keep your sheets nice and ready for you. You can even enjoy the perks of having a superb lightweight blanket to use outdoors. Get ready for cozy!
Amazon MDDM is an Amazon Affiliate. We receive a small commission if you purchase using these links. There is no additional cost to you!
6 | M Y L O ’ S FAV O R I T E T H I N G S
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House Socks
What’s better than house socks, you may ask? House socks with grip! We love versatility and we love affordability, and that’s why we have to let you in one of the world's best kept secrets. Hylaea Unisex Non-Slip Grip Socks come in a pack of three and retail for only $15.99. You can use the comfortable Hylaea Unisex Non-Slip Grip Socks to walk around your house, practice yoga, a hospital visit, pilates, barre, and more. With almost 2,000 reviews on Amazon and being one of our favorites, we can definitely testify that these non-slip, super grippy, ankle-cushioned socks are a game changer. Amazon
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Reed Dif fusers
Imagine this, it’s Saturday, you just cleaned your home, and it smells like Ocean Mist & Sea Salt, or maybe even Pumpkin Chai. Mmmm, delish! NEST Fragrances Reed Diffuser: a reed diffuser that actually works! Enjoy any of the 20 alcohol-free fragrances in your home or office space retailing for $48.00. We know that the price may appear to be a bit steep but remember, a NEST Fragrances Reed Diffuser will provide you with consistent fragrances for approximately 90 days - that’s only 53 cents per day! Reed diffusers can help with mood and memory, act as an insect repellent, provide allergy relief, and don’t use electricity! Sounds like a win-win, to us!
Amazon
7 | M Y L O ’ S FAV O R I T E T H I N G S
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Candles
While we’re giving you the 411 on all things that smell amazing, we have to talk about candles! Candles are the original bad boy in the scent game; respect is given, where respect is due. Lulu Candles have a long burn time and are made with renewable ingredients, like eco-friendly soy wax. We love that! Lulu Candles are nonmetal, lead-free, and have long-burning wicks. All of the candles are 100% cruelty-free. I mean, come on, you can contribute to a greener earth and enjoy a wonderful smelling space all for the price of $19.95!
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Amazon
Slippers
Another comfy foot item! UBFEN Unisex Slippers are absolutely amazing. Retailing for about $20.00, these memory foam, fuzzy plush-lined shoes will definitely make your feet feel at home. You can wear them indoors or outdoors, it’s totally up to you. And, no need to worry about sweaty feet, the UBFEN Unisex Slippers put a lot of thought into their design process and added a breathable knit! With a non-slip rubber sole, you don’t have to worry about ice skating across your cold wooden or tile floors during the cooler months. Comfy feet, comfy life! Amazon
8 | M Y L O ’ S FAV O R I T E T H I N G S
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Robes
Amazon
One of the best feelings is a luxurious plush bathrobe wrapped around you after an awesome shower. It’s soft, it’s comfortable, it feels good. We love the Simplicity Kimono Bathrobe, especially the fact that it has pockets! Retailing for $29.99, it is made with 100% polyester, has long wide nonrestrictive sleeves, and has a belt tie closure with double loops to ensure that you get the most comfortable fit. Affordably luxurious is how we would describe the Simplicity Kimono Bathrobe. Yas, honey!
Amazon
Cof fee Mugs It’s 2020 people! You absolutely need a coffee mug with a lid. We’re always on the go, and we don’t like spills! Even if you’re working from home the Ello Ogden Ceramic Travel Mug with Friction-Fit Lid makes life with coffee tasty and convenient. Available in six beautiful colors and retailing for $14.99, we can’t say no. The Ello Ogden Ceramic Travel Mug with Friction-Fit Lid can hold up to 16 ounces of your favorite hot beverage in a BPA-free, splash-resistant, ceramic tumbler. What would you love to drink from your very own Ello Ogden Ceramic Travel Mug with Friction-Fit Lid? Coffee, tea, a latte?
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| FORT WORTH ZOO
Founded in 1909, Fort Worth Zoo has spent the last century illuminating a path towards a brighter future for its animals, staff, and guests. Today, the park’s 65 acres is home to 7,000 animals and over 500 species. Add in their outstanding conservation efforts, and it’s no wonder that Fort Worth Zoo has been recently named the #1 zoo in the nation by USA Today. jason kindig photography
Why are zoos
important?
Conservation is an important function of every zoo. Countless species are preserved and cared for at zoos. These same species have become extinct in the wild, and zoos continue to attempt to rebuild these numbers for future generations.
Fort worth zoo The Connection between wildlife and humanity By Kristine Bello Did you know that a giraffe’s tongue is over 18 inches long? Mylo got up close and personal with one of the friendly giants during his visit. Feed one yourself for only $6!
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e had the pleasure of interviewing Avery, the zoo’s Assistant Director of Communications, to learn about their history, current features, and up-and-coming developments. Considered to be the oldest continuous zoo site in Texas, the Fort Worth Zoo started off with “one lion, two bear cubs, an alligator, a
jason kindig photography
coyote, a peacock and a few rabbits” (Fort Worth Zoo 2020). Since the start, they've “really just never looked back” and are “always looking for ways to provide better space and a better life for the animals...at the zoo.”
10 | FORT WORTH ZOO
jason kindig photography
Mylo and the MDDM Team had a blast at the zoo! Giraffes, ostrich, gibbons (pictured right), bonobos, and hippopotamuses were among our favorite animals to visit! jason kindig photography
T
he zoo’s mission is simple (and something we can all relate to): to strengthen the bond between humans, animals, and the environment. From informative programs and virtual trips, to adoption gifts and diverse events, the Fort Worth Zoo fully delivers on their promise to serve guests based on their three cornerstone principles: conservation, education, and entertainment and
recreation. While the zoo focuses specifically on fortifying this tri-fold relationship, they’re also bringing families and friends closer together--a task that’s not always easy, especially during these unsettling times. ne of the most significant ways that the zoo works towards their mission is through their remarkable conservation efforts. The Fort Worth
O
Zoo is involved in over 30 conservation projects all over the world, working with several species. While every species is in a different situation, the zoo provides support tailored to each species’ need for survival and well-being. Their most recent achievement involved releasing more than 150 Texas Horned Lizards back into the wild--and they’ve got the coolest video about it on their social media pages! While living through this unpredictable period, it’s efforts like these that give us hope.
11 | FORT WORTH ZOO
What’s Next? exhibits, and the Museum of Living Art or MOLA, home to more than 170 critically endangered and rare species. Additionally, adults can partake in 21+ events with the newest offerings: adult-only parties and micro-weddings. With so many couples having to put their weddings on hold due to the pandemic, Avery tells MDDM that they’re “...still here to try and make your special day happen.”
jason kindig photography
C
urrently, the Fort Worth Zoo is offering a multitude of entertaining, educational virtual programs, including virtual field trips, virtual storytime, the Virtual Breakfast Club, and more. Beyond the screen, the zoo definitely wants you to be able to experience their fun first-hand, but with safety as the top priority. Some features that guests are currently able to enjoy are their giraffe feedings, Stingray Cove, Zoo Preschool, 11 animal
The threatened
jason kindig photography
bonobo species, pictured to the left and above, can only be found in seven zoos throughout the US, the Fort Worth Zoo proudly being one of them.
12| FORT WORTH ZOO
I
n November, there are even a few seasonal specials going on, such as the allnew, Member Mondays this holiday season! These special member days (Nov. 23, Dec. 21 & 28, and Jan. 4) include a yummy snack and free train and carousel rides all day long! All you need to do to participate is be a member and make a reservation as normal. Another way to take advantage of the seasonal opportunities at
the zoo is to purchase a virtual holiday adoption. The current holiday adoption focuses on the meerkat. Like all virtual adoptions, this special offering’s proceeds go directly towards the care of the respective animal being adopted, includes a plush of your adoptee, personalized adoption certificate, coloring sheet, fact sheet, and newsletter--except during the month of November it all comes in a festive box!
PRO TIP: If you want to take part in a member exclusive
event on short notice, but aren’t a member yet, you can sign up for a membership right before an event and still gain access to it! (As long as space is still available.)
WILD FACTS The zoo has a pig called Pancakes! The Fort Worth Zoo is the only zoo in Texas that has bonobos and black rhinos! They’re also one of the rare zoos in the nation that have harpy eagles, African crowned eagles, Storm’s storks, palm nut vultures, and saddle-billed storks. It’s unbird-lievable! The Zoo has one of the biggest reptile collections in the nation. They were recently voted the #1 Zoo in the Nation by USA Today!
jason kindig photography
13| FORT WORTH ZOO
T
he Fort Worth Zoo is currently in the middle of a $100-million project in efforts to renovate habitats, expand certain areas, improve enrichment for the animals, and provide guests with fresh ways to interact and observe the animals. With just the first phase that opened in 2018, the African Savannah, the zoo has already set the tone for the remodel, introducing “...a multi-species exhibit where several different species are in the same areas together just as they would be in the wild...[Including] giraffes...springbok and tudu. There’s also several bird species. We have ostrich...hornbills, pelicans and vultures...We also have expanded exhibit spaces for our African black rhinos, hippos and flamingos...”
The latest little giant to be born at the zoo is Nakuru, born June 15th of this year. He weighed 158 lbs and was 6 feet 2 inches tall at birth!
jason kindig photography
comingsoon S T he second phase, Elephant Springs, is set to open in the spring of 2021; the third phase is focused on big cats; and the final phase is tentatively for various birds and primate species.
ome important things that guests should know when visiting the zoo are that tickets are now being offered as reservations, as none of their ticket booths are open. Reservations must be made online, and not only do they reserve a day, but they also reserve a time slot. This allows for safe management of the park’s capacity. Guests are required to wear masks to enter, as well as throughout their visit. In addition to these precautions, the zoo has incorporated more opportunities for hand washing throughout the park and a staff dedicated to cleanliness that wipes frequently touched areas, such as “door handles, tables, chairs, exhibit glass, [and] exhibit railings.”
jason kindig photography
Mylo waved goodbye to the baby bonobo, the sweet baby waved back. Make memories that will last a lifetime today with your tribe at the Fort Worth Zoo!
donate
visit
The best moment of MDDM’s visit to the Fort Worth Zoo was captured here. As
adopt
14| FORT WORTH ZOO
join share
jason kindig photography
W
hile certain aspects of our lives have currently been put on hold or significantly altered, the one thing that always remains loyal is nature, and the Fort Worth Zoo strives to remind us of that every day. The perfect escape from the everyday autopilots in us, an outing at this wildlife park inspires unity, stimulates healing, and simply urges us to slow down. Besides, what’s more grounding than having a stare-down with a porcupine or feeding fresh lettuce to a giraffe?
THE APPLES OF OUR PIE
Sweet Lucy’s Pies
15
The Apples of Our Pie
The Top 3 Pie Shops You Need to Check Out This Fall!
Writer Kira Gavalakis
W
ith the brisk winds of fall and the aroma of freshly-baked desserts, we’re sure that you won’t argue with talkin’ pie this month. So, we’ve concocted a list of the three best pie shops in Fort Worth for your sweetest adventures to venture off to this fall: Sweet Lucy’s Pies, Buttermilk Sky Pie Shop, and Stir-Crazy Baked Goods, in no particular order of awesomeness.
TV room as a winner of The Cooking Channel’s “Sugar Showdown,” or found out about them through another location around America. Either way, their pies encapsulate tradition, love, and family in each bite. The founders, couple Scott and Meredith Layton have had sweet treats run in their family for generations; so much in fact that their idea for their four-inch “mini-pies” came from Meredith cooking “baby pies” with her grandBefore we dive into our ratings, here’s a brief low- mother when she was little. down of each shop’s unique past and present.
Sweet Lucy’s Pies - BEST CRUST
If family-run businesses and locally-sourced ingredients make your heart flutter, Sweet Lucy’s Pies is calling your name. Named after the founder Lindsey Lawing’s daughter, this single-mom-owned business will make you feel part of the family-especially if you follow them on social media, where you can see their little adorable mascot growing up and winning the “Cutest Assistant” award. Whether you find them in their humble abode in Arlington Heights or set up at the Clearfork Farmer’s Market, you’ll have #noragrets when you give them a try!
Buttermilk Sky Pie Shop - BEST MINI-PIES
You may have seen Buttermilk Sky Pie Shop in your
Stir-Crazy Baked Goods
“Just like grandma made, if what grandma made kicked ass,” declares the front page of Stir-Crazy’s website, a community-infused pie shop located on Magnolia Ave that offers just about every type of baked good you can imagine. From pies, to cookies, to savory snacks, Stir-Crazy is well-deserving of their being featured in 360 West Weddings Magazine. Not only do they offer dietary-friendly options, but they also participate in ARTober, where they showcase local visual and musical artists’ work inside their store. Now, let’s delve into our top rankings along with each shop’s lovable and notable features.
THE APPLES OF OUR PIE
Sweet Lucy’s Pies Website: www.sweetlucyspies.com Price:
#1
Rating: Flavor Selection: Dietary Friendly: What’s to Love Sweet Lucy’s is best known for their signature crusts, with a light and flaky texture often compared to that of a mother’s and grandmother’s cooking. Sweet Lucy’s honest and wholesome ingredients are all sourced from local farms in Texas – even their flour! Lindsey feels supporting local farmers doesn’t just make a better pie, but a better business as a whole.
Sweet Lucy’s Pies
Sweet Lucy’s fall pie menu showcases a ton of yummy flavors, including Chai Spiced Chocolate Pecan, Salted Butterscotch, and Cranberry Key Lime, all handmade and “all about that crust!”
Buttermilk Sky Pie Shop Website: www.buttermilkskypie.com
#2
Price: Rating: Flavor Selection: Dietary Friendly: What’s to Love Buttermilk Sky gives you the option to eat large or small, with multiple size offerings. They also have “pie-stacks,” which are great for parties, meetings or gifts. If you’re coming into the shop for yourself, the 2-inch pie is perfect for a small and guiltfree treat.
Buttermilk Sky Pie Shop
Buttermilk offers both daily and seasonal flavors, as well as thumbprint cookies and the “Cloud 9,” their pie option a la mode. They also offer certain flavors gluten-free; here in Fort Worth, gluten-less eaters can enjoy Pecan, Chocolate Cream, and the I-40 pie (which is a mixture of pecans, chocolate chip, and toasted coconut).
Stir-Crazy Baked Goods Website: www.stircrazybakedgoods.com
#3
Stir-Crazy Baked Goods
Price: Rating: Flavor Selection: Dietary Friendly: What’s to Love Stir-Crazy Baked Goods offers over 10 year-round pie and sweet roll flavors, including Mint Chocolate Chess, Naturally Sugar-Free Apple, and Lemon Chess. As far as seasonal fall and winter selections, you can choose from Apple Cranberry, Pumpkin, Spiced Buttermilk, Sweet Potato, and Egg Nog in December. They also have a fun cake and cupcake selection, featuring flavors like Milk Chocolate Earl Gray, Garam Masala, Zucchini Walnut, and Lavender, with upcoming fall seasonal flavors of Sweet Potato, White Chocolate Cranberry, Brown Sugar Sage, and more! The best part is, almost everything is customizable to be either gluten-free or vegan — even the savory dishes!
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A MOTHER’S
LOVE BY MYLO DRAVEN
FINDING MY WAY HOME In this issue of MDDM we celebrate family, food, and Fort Worth, Texas. As a result, I have taken �me to pay homage, respect, and tribute to the person I am most thankful for in my life… my mother. She is a remarkable woman, and many have benefited from her being a part of their lives, but none more so than I. It all began a long �me ago, 1967 to be exact…
“Y
ou’re 3 months pregnant,” my mom tells me the nurse said to her. 19-year-old Be�y Ann Gomez was not expec�ng to hear those words. I have heard this story before, but as I was walking the other day, I called my mom so that I could interview her for this ar�cle. I wanted to know how she felt when she found out she was pregnant. I had heard the story, but I never knew how she felt. She con�nues, “I got up off that table, got
17 | A MOTHER’S LOVE
dressed, and wandered around in a daze.” As I’m walking, I try to imagine her emo�ons, but I can only come up with sorrow. “Mom, were you sad?” She tells me empha�cally, “NO! I just thought to myself, I am not married anymore, and my father doesn’t know yet. Now I have to tell him I am pregnant too.” The daughter of a Puerto Rican father and a Cuban mother, she was not allowed to be unwed
AND with child. No, not because it was 1967, but because she couldn’t be an embarrassment. I don’t ask how the conversa�on went because I already know. You’ll find out too in just a bit. “Mom, did you ever think about abor�on or giving me up for adop�on?” I have never asked this of her. I ask not because I m unsure of the answer, but because I need to hear the answer. “NEVER. I asked the doctor if everything looked fine, and when she assured me I/we were fine, I began my long, dazed walk.” I know what my mom has sacrificed to raise me as a single woman. I would not have been upset if the answer were different. I just wanted the truth. My mom ended up being a 20year-old single mother. She ate baby food at �mes because it was all she could afford; food for me. Yes, we had an apartment. Yes, she had a job. But what she didn’t have was any financial help. My biological father offered nothing. My grandfather disowned her. Remember what I said about being a “good La�na?” Well, unwedsingle-mother does not fit that bill at all. It was of no importance to my mother. My mom said, “I knew
IMMEDIATE LEFT: BETTY’S SENIOR PICTURE. FAR LEFT: MYLO - 1ST GRADE. BOTTOM: MYLO & BETTY, TOGETHER AGAIN.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY: MADISON HOPE PHOTOGRAPHY ADDITIONAL PHOTOS SOURCED FROM UPSPLASH AND MYLO’S PERSONAL COLLECTION
you were mine forever as soon as I had you.” There is nothing like the bond between a mother and son, and our bond is UNBREAKABLE. Trust me, we have found out the hard way. My drug addic�on ripped us apart. I never stole because I had a great job. I was also a func�onal addict at first. I quickly became a cliché. The tortured gay ar�ste (hair colorist/cu�er) who did crystal meth to hide his pain. My mom had never really been exposed to drugs. As my usage got worse, I distanced myself more and more. I
was 32 years old then. We had been best friends my en�re life up un�l that point. We talked daily to each other, saw each other a couple of �mes a week. People always talked about how great our rela�onship was. Then ,I have a feeling they began to talk for other reasons. “Mom, what did my addic�on do to you?” I have never asked this of her. I knew as I was walking that this interview was going to get rough emo�onally. “I had to ask someone if they thought you were on drugs. I didn’t know what to do.” As with many addicts, I didn’t blame her for my usage, but I blamed
her for not helping. Mentally I wasn’t well. I spent 9 months high almost every day, I dropped dead twice, and eventually, I sha�ered our rela�onship. None of what happened to me was her fault. I was an adult who made my own bad choices. I was sober for a year when I decided to move to Texas. Now, the emo�onal
18 | A MOTHER’S LOVE
LONG ROAD
HOME
”MOM, I NEVER MEANT TO HURT YOU.” “ALL THAT MATTERS TO ME IS THAT I HAVE YOU BACK. YOU ARE ALL I HAVE.”
Betty and Mylo enjoy some much needed mother-son time in Las Vegas.
distance that my addic�on caused was being compounded by actual miles. It would be 5 years before I saw my mother again, and it was at my grandmother’s death bed. It would be another 10 years a�er that brief visit un�l we saw each other again and were on good terms. “The le�er you sent me is what broke my heart,” she said sadly,
19 | A MOTHER’S LOVE
almost in a whisper so as not to hurt either one of us. I nearly had to catch my breath, and my heart had an instant pain. “You told me that I never loved you uncondi�onally.” I vaguely remember wri�ng the le�er nearly 18 years ago. “I held on to that le�er for years.” I could not say anything to erase the hurt, the moment that I created, that tore us apart for more than a decade. “Mom, I never meant to hurt you. I am so sorry. I didn’t want to open up old wounds.” She said to me, “I know, and you haven’t. I don’t hold a grudge. All that ma�ers to me is that I have you back. You are all I have.” In that proclama�on, which she has made before, I knew that we would never dri� apart again. Neither one of us will allow it. I had one last ques�on for her. “Mom, did you
ever think we would be apart for so long?” She replied quickly, “Never.” Three years ago, we spent our first Thanksgiving together in 15 years. Last year, we spent Thanksgiving and Christmas together. We are back be�er than ever. There is not only a strengthened bond, but a new mutual respect and pride that we share. We are healed. I never knew just how broken I was as a result of not having my mom in my daily life un�l she was back in it. The shi� in my soul was almost immediate. It’s like a part of me was lost or disconnected, and with her back, that piece of me was found and became func�onal. My mother is my hero. She has worked two jobs before just to provide for us. She has ins�lled her fantas�c work ethic in me.
ON PHOTO
“THE HEART OF A MOTHER IS A DEEP ABYSS AT THE BOTTOM OF WHICH YOU WILL ALWAYS FIND FORGIVENESS.” -HONORE DE BALZAC
She has made me strong and independent. She raised me not to hold my hand out, but to pick myself up by my proverbial bootstraps and get my act together. My mom taught me the value of rewarding myself for a job well done, and for living right. I was raised to be a good man, to do right by others. My mom and grandmother showed me what is was to be selfless. In 1968, and for five decades a�er, she has walked proudly with her head held high as a single mother. She has shown me what it is like to live shamefree. She has shown me the power of laughter. She has shown me the healing power of kindness. She has shown me the power of words. My mother has shown me, and so many others, what it is to be who you want to be, say what you want to say,
and do what you want to do… all for the be�erment of self. She is an unwi�ng role model. She is not perfect, of course she isn’t. She is perfectly herself, and I couldn’t be prouder of her, or to be her son. She is my blood, and my family. I want to live my best life so that I can give back to her for all that she has given to me. I want her to know everyday that I love her, respect her, and appreciate her for who she is. I have watched her graduate from college. Hell, I a�ended classes with her when I was 6 or 7, and she a�ended night school. Her dream of a degree would wait 20 years or so, but she achieved it. She is woman of integrity and determina�on. She is a sheer force of nature. I am her biggest fan and supporter. As we draw to the end of 2020, I am thankful
that despite the Pandemic, I have been able to see her and visit with her in Las Vegas, and back in her home state of California. Soon, she will be back in Texas so that we can spend Thanksgiving together once again. The holidays are here, my friends. Take this �me of thankfulness and gra�tude, and reach for your loved ones. Don’t let fear strengthen distance, nor weaken any bonds. No, it will not be easy, but it will be worth it. You deserve to heal. We don’t all get happy endings, but we can all get closure. You owe it to yourselves to be your best self and live your best life. Reshape the holidays into what you want and need them to be, what everyone should have: quality family �me.
20 | A MOTHER’S LOVE
2 1 – THE POST
The Post at River East
Once a United States Post Office, then a biker bar, The Post honors it’s heritage by name and by design. The outdoor courtyard feels like home, if you had a full bar and personal musician.
N
ot every restaurant can do it all, but The Post at River East’s claim to fame is that it does do it all, infusing an eclectic dining experience with live music in an intimate setting. The sundrenched courtyard and historic backdrop as a former post office, hence the name, creates distinct ambiance unmatched elsewhere in the city. Did we mention that they have an enticing and creative cocktail menu to elevate your visit? We spoke with Brooks Kendall, The Post’s Entertainment Manager and Shannon Harris, the General Manager to find out how this restaurant and live music venue came to be and why after two years in operation, it’s a favorite in the community and a sought-after location for entertainment and straightforward, delicious food.
It Started With a Building This former post office has multiple indoor and outdoor spaces and maintains many relics from its origin
story. Kendall tells us, “One person might completely wipe the slate clean and take the bones. We tried to leave it much the same as we found it.” When you sit down at your table at The Post, look around and enjoy all the features from a bygone era. “The patina that’s on the walls in that space is all as we found it. We did nothing to change any of that. The age that shows on the walls, the graffiti, all those layers of paint peeling off from over the years is all true, it’s what the building is,” he elaborates.
22 – THE POST
from mail to music
Written By: Caitlen Knudsen Photography By: Ben Bledsoe
The Perfect Team Kendall’s real area of expertise is live music. He’s a third generation talent buyer from a family with deep roots in the entertainment industry. He started working in the business as soon as he was able to legally be a fixture in the bar scene. After working for his family’s company throughout his 20’s, he was recruited to manage entertainment at the now defunct The Live Oak Music Hall. When The Live Oak closed its doors, he and a few core team members, including Harris, helmed Fort Worth Live in an effort to preserve live music for a city with a distinct personality, but often in the shadow of Dallas to the east. Joining Kendall and Harris are Bar Manager Garret Maupin and Production Manager Rodney Parker. Together, these four have decades of experience bringing high-quality entertainment, satisfying, unpretentious food, and tantalizing cocktails to the people of Fort Worth. You’re in excellent hands at The Post.
It’s All About The Music Dallas’ venues bring in the larger, nation-
ally recognized musicians, but what The Post may lack in musicians that sell out stadium seating, it makes up for with sheer quality and respect to the art and craft of singer-songwriters. When asked about the ambiance for live music, Kendall discloses, “Our focus for ticketed shows is a seated, listening experience, an experience that’s more about music than about the hangout or the social aspect of it. We encourage people to be quiet and to listen.” He tells us, “You’re there to listen to the music or you’re in the wrong place.”
On photo: Mylo & The Post’s signature Dilly Dally Drink
On the night Mylo and Siobhan enjoyed music at the venue, Darden Smith serenaded them with his smooth American-Folk-song style.
2 3 – THE POST
ome to the venue for musicians that know how to play their instruments and excel at telling stories through their lyrics. Keith Harkin. Fred Eaglesmith. Retrophonics. Walt Wilkins. These are the talents on the calendar for November. When asked how he books acts of this caliber, Kendall explains, “A lot of it has to do with a network of agents that we’ve developed relationships with that we trust. It’s either an act that I’m already familiar with and know will do well. Or it’s somebody local, it’s somebody that’s a good person or a good friend.” Kendall looks for acts with a proclivity towards Texas or the south central United States.
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On photo: Lone Star beer on tap. Only $4 a draft!
Ben Bledsoe
On photo: Fully stocked bar? Yes, please!
Soldiers. This non-profit pairs songwriters with veterans to facilitate creative expression, specifically about reintegrating into society after tours of duty. These are the types of musicians that the venue hosts for their sold out events. The team behind your time there understands that supplying Fort Worth with high-quality music and satisfying food creates a special experience, one where all you have to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy. In Kendall’s words, “It’s music that’s meant to be listened to and thought about.” But we can’t forget about the food.
Ben Bledsoe
Our Editor in Chief, Mylo Draven himself, and Creative Director Siobhan Miller recently visited the restaurant to sample the menu and catch a show. They were fortunate to have a table for Darden Smith, a native Texan who started recording in 1986 and has a career that spans decades. As he describes on his website, he aims to “Write songs. Tell stories. Move people.” When he’s not performing, he’s a true community member, serving as the Co-founder and Creative Director of Songwriting With: Jalapeno Bacon Brie & Pickled Veggies
2 4 – THE POST
The menu is pure Texas, but with a twist. Patrons can enjoy familiar flavors like Cowboy Hummus and Jalapeno Bacon Brie, which Draven and Miller sampled during their recent visit and said were divine. There’s also Queso Blanco served with tortilla chips, an homage to the TexMex flavors ubiquitous with dining in the Lone Star State.
staples on the menu but enjoy switching it up from time to time with new seasonal offerings.” Your favorites aren’t going anywhere, but there’s often something new to try. Even in the ever-changing landscape of COVID-19, the people behind this space adapted (and keep adapting) to bring Fort Worth a respite from life’s stressors and a place to meet with those you love. Miller shares with us, “This year has certainly been a wild ride for all of us in this business.” Nonetheless, tempting food and expertly curated entertainment are within a short walk, bike ride, or drive away.
For those looking for more than a snack to share during the show, the wide selection of sandwiches feature classic pairings, but with many highlighting house-braised pork. We guarantee these sandwiches uphold the standard for quality meat that Texas is known for.
Ben Bledsoe
General Manager Shannon Miller mentions, “We concentrate on having as many ingredients as possible made in house. We like to keep some popular
On photo: Singer-Songwriter, Darden Smith.
While COVID-19 brought changes for many, especially those in the hospitality and entertainment industry, there’s hope. Miller tells us, “We are thrilled to be able to open our doors again and get back to doing what we love. We have been very fortunate to have such a spacious outdoor courtyard, an open-air lounge area and more outdoor seating out back. This has enabled us to be able to spread out and socially distance our staff and guests. With this we can continue live music and dining, just at a smaller volume.” This venue is a must-visit on our list and we can’t wait to hear what you think when you check out a show. You can find The Post at 2925 Race Street, Fort Worth, TX 76111. They are open from 4 pm-12 am everyday except Monday, so stop by for an after-work drink or dinner with a friend. Find an upcoming show you’d like to attend, but keep in mind, they sell out quickly, so you’ll want to reserve your table in advance. As Kendall mentions, people call every day asking whether The Post is open. Yes, they are, and residents of the River East neighborhood and Texans across the northern part of the state can look forward to the return of lunch service and plenty more live music on the calendar for 2021, with winter shows moving safely indoors.
Ben Bledsoe
2 5 – S I G N AT U R E C O C K TA I L
The Dilly Dally Signature Cocktail Recipe
Courtesy of The Post Ingredients: Waterloo No.9 Gin (1 ½ oz.) Fresh Dill ( 2 Large Sprigs) Cucumber (6 chopped, 1 Ribbon) Lemon Juice (1 oz.) Sugar (1 oz.)
Preparation
Method
A few bar tools are needed to make this tasty cocktail. On hand you will need a shaker tin, strainer, and mixing glass. A pint glass will do just fine. You will need to chop a cucumber and save enough to slice a long ribbon as garnish for your serving glass. We like to use a 10 oz. low ball serving glass. This cocktail balances sweetness and freshness, so you will need sugar. To make your simple syrup, prepare equal parts water and sugar. For Gin, we use Waterloo No.9 Gin, distilled in Dripping Springs, Texas. This Gin is the perfect blend of lavender, juniper and smooth citrus, but you may use your gin of choice. From our patio to yours, we give you our Fort Worth famous, Dilly Dally.
Prepare your serving glass by placing a cucumber ribbon around the inside of it, to hold in place add a scoop of ice then set aside. In a mixing glass, drop in a few pieces of freshly chopped cucumber. Toss in an ounce of lemon juice and a large sprig of dill, then muddle these ingredients together. Next add an ounce of simple syrup, and an ounce and a half of your favorite gin. Add some ice to your mixture and place a shaker tin on top. Shake generously and strain into your prepared glass. Garnish with a sprig of fresh dill and enjoy.
2 6 – SIGNATURE COCKTAIL
Mylo and Creative Director, Siobhan thoroughly enjoyed this unique and refreshing drink. Order yours tonight!
Ben Bledsoe
JULIANDRA DEAR LPC
Identify what you’re okay with. Masks? No masks? Be honest with yourself.
Ju l ia n d ra de ar L PC Writ ten by: Sumner Ga nn Edi ted by: Kristine Bello
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iving within a fast-paced culture that’s centered around working, socializing, and maintaining an updated-but-not-always-so-accurate presence, we’ve got a lot to manage. Now add on a heaping side of worldwide pandemic and it kind of feels like Thanksgiving dinner, when your aunt (who you haven’t seen all year) is shoveling more and more food onto your plate, but you’re all “Oh, I didn’t want more. Okay, that’s enough. No, really, I’m good. Alright, thanks.” (Insert sigh here.)
We feel that. And to try and relieve some of that stress (for both you and ourselves), we reached out to Juliandra Dear, counselor and owner of Dear’s Magnolia Place, LLC. While she specializes in stress and anxiety management, she mentioned another important aspect when practicing. “I like to think that what I do is, not only help people manage anxiety and stress, but to also find joy in their lives and prioritize what means the most to them,” says Juliandra. With a unique background that ranges from teaching dance to middle school science, Juliandra chose to focus on stress and anxiety due to her own personal experience.
PHOTOGRAPHER Hazel Moments WRITER Sumner Gann EDITOR Kristine Bello
She offers three therapy options: parenting, stress and anxiety management, and life coaching and goal setting. And though it’s currently been put on hold due to Covid-19, she also heads a mom support group called Mom Tribe. Seeing as though 38% of people feel an increase in stress during the holidays and that percentage has now gone up 8% underneath the Covid19 reign, we thought it was especially important to ask Juliandra for advice on how to best navigate the family landscape this year. However, before we get into her tips, it’s important to note that although stress and anxiety might sometimes come hand in hand, they’re significantly different. Stress can be caused by a specific event or threat, whereas anxiety can arise from worrying about a threat or event in advance. In other words, when you lose your car keys: stress. When you’ve been sitting in bed for 35 minutes thinking about what you’ll do if you got sick from that last grocery trip: anxiety.
Stre ss le s s | Celebr ate m ore juliandra’s words of w is dom f or family time , set tin g boun darie s, & c omfort levels
► Identify what you’re okay with. Masks? No masks? Social distancing inside or outside? Be honest with yourself.
►Try to avoid creating any sense of guilt or sadness if your ideas for the holidays are different from your family’s.
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► Once you each share your own comfort levels and are able to communicate openly, discuss any differences in a non-judgmental way. Arrive at an agreement you can both feel safe with.
JULIANDRA DEAR LPC
► Have a conversation with your family members about their concerns and precautions. A great conversation starter you could use is: “I always enjoy getting together with you for the holidays, but this year might be a little different. What is your level of comfort with getting together with our family this year?
JULIANDRA DEAR LPC
C om promising is
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ometimes, even if we do our best to be open and honest communicators, it can still be tough to reach a consensus where everyone is happy. Juliandra points out that just because someone chooses not to be respectful of your boundaries, doesn’t mean that you can’t still assert them with respect and empathy.
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It’s important that you understand where your family and/or friends are coming from. They likely just miss you and really want to see you. It’s also possible that they’re trying to hold onto the last opportunity left for any shred of normality in 2020. We can all relate to that. It’s not every day that a worldwide pandemic goes on for almost a whole year. This is an entirely new experience for all of us.
hard,
now wh at ?
However, with or without boundaries, for some people this is a matter of life or death. And with so many things being up in the air, the one thing we can be sure of (for the moment) is how we feel and what we believe in. If you feel like you’re doing the right thing for you and your family and you’ve tried to compromise, uphold your stance. Be open and honest, offer suggestions, and share your concerns as much as you feel comfortable sharing. Most importantly, try to set realistic expectations. We can often put pressure on ourselves to feel more “jolly” than we actually are because it’s the holidays, but then we fall into the happiness trap—trying so hard to be happy that we make ourselves
miserable. Shift your focus to what remains within your control and work with that. It might not be an ideal situation, and things might feel slightly uncomfortable and weird, but the important part is that everyone makes an effort to be together and make memories. At the end of the day, you won’t remember tasting hand-sanitizer when you licked your fingers or that everyone panicked because someone was coughing after choking on some water. You’ll cherish the fact that you were able to say grace with everyone at the dinner table and laugh as you watched the kiddos blissfully dance to their favorite song.
“The purpose of psychology is to give us a completely different idea of the things we know best.” - P Valery -
Juliandra is currently accepting new clients! She also knows that everyone has different needs in a counselor, and recommends www.psychologytoday.com to find a counselor that fits your needs and budget. Interested in joining the Mom Tribe? They’re gearing up for meetings again (virtual or in the real). Email Juliandra here to sign up to hear more!
So you tried your best to avoid the stress, but it got to you anyways. That’s ok; we can manage this! Make sure to check in with your body. Notice any tightness or tension, take a deep breath in…imagining you’re breathing into that area of tension…and exhale it away. Continue to focus on your breath until the unpleasant feelings and sensations subside. It can also help to shift your mindset from the negative, scary stuff to thoughts about what you can control, including keeping your distance, washing your hands, etc.
And remember, you’re not alone! Whether your stress and anxiety is really intense or you just need someone to talk to, Juliandra is there to support you. She’s currently offering sessions (exclusively online as of right now) by appointment only Mondays through Saturdays. And some insurances are presently covering therapy with a licensed LPC due to Covid-19, regardless of deductibles. To find out more about Juliandra and her practice, you can visit her website www.dearsmagnoliaplace.com or her Facebook page @DearsMagnoliaPlace.
JULIANDRA DEAR LPC
But i’m stil l str e ssed
Psychology is action, not thinking about oneself. -Albert Camus
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PHOTOGRAPHER Hazel Moments WRITER Sumner Gann EDITOR Kristine Bello
31 – MYLO’S MUSINGS
Mylo’s Musings “You’re a bastard.” “Your father didn’t love you.” “Don’t you want to meet your father?” “If you had a father you wouldn’t be gay.”
I
have heard the above more �mes than I can count or care to remember. You must be thinking kids can be so cruel. Would you be surprised if I told you much of the �me it was adults making those comments or similar ones? Where do you think children learn cruelty and ignorance? Yes, from the adults around them. When my friends would ask, “What does your father do for work?” My reply was either “I don’t know my dad”, or “My mom is divorced”. There was never judgment from my friends when I was younger in elementary school. My answers were enough for them. As I grew older, the answers were not enough. The answers bore more ques�ons. The answers bred judgment and hurt. As I grew older, I wanted new answers that would hopefully eradicate the hurt, doubt, and insecuri�es caused by my unknown father. Sure, I knew his name. I knew that we had the same body type, and the same affinity for the finer things in life. What I didn’t have were the answers I didn’t know I wanted or needed. For all of you raised by a single parent, I tell you this from the bo�om of my
heart, “You are enough!” You may already know this, and you may not need to read it, but then again maybe you don’t and maybe you did. Experts said I was from a “broken home.” A vic�m of divorce. Let me say this loudly for the cheap seats, “I have never been, nor will I ever be, a vic�m.” I have survived and flourished as a result of being a child raised by a single parent. You can’t miss what you don’t know. Now, I did search for Enrique Lopez, my biological father, about eight years ago. I was given a phone number from the private inves�gator. I called while at dinner. The man on the other end of the call was not my father, but he was kind and gracious. He said, “I was in Vietnam in 1967-1968. I could not be your father. I wish you luck on your search.” That one call was enough to convince me I didn’t need to know. If a man could father a child, and not give a damn about his offspring, then why should I care about him? I was never jealous of my friends with fathers. Do you know why? Because I knew my mom loved me enough for two parents. I can look into the mirror to this day and know that I am her son. I have always known that I am hers, and hers alone.
3 2 – MYLO’S MUSINGS
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uring the holidays, when all you see are families gathering, it can be difficult if you are A) an only child, and B) a child of a single parent. I have wondered at �mes what it would have been like to have been raised with my biological father. Would I be different today? Of course, I would. Would I be be�er? I choose to believe the answer is no. Out of respect for all the love and effort my mom put into loving and raising me, and for ins�lling all
that she has, I have no doubt that I am good enough. I also have many friends raised by two parents, and I don’t think any of them are any happier than I am because of it. This holiday season, if you are a child of a single parent, don’t reflect on what could have been. No one is raised in a perfect scenario because perfec�on doesn’t exist. There is no reason to fantasize about what could have been. It wasn’t,
and it never will be. My hope for all the kids from single parent homes, young and old, is that you can focus on the good. This Thanksgiving, be thankful that your parent was able to provide for you. Be thankful that you are loved. We have all experienced hardships, but this year let that go. Let this year be the year you remind your parent, “Thank you for the sacrifices you made that you didn’t have to make. Thank you for being my parent.”
Then and now. .. Mylo and Betty circa 1982 and 2020.
Photos courtesy of Mylo & Betty’s personal collection
33 | COSMIC DONUTS
Cosmic Donuts: Out of this world treats Made with love By Sakshi Udavant
t takes great courage to leave a full-time job in pursuit of a dream. Neil and Julia Siler had it in plenty when they moved to Texas two years ago from California to run a dreamy donut shop. Julia worked in a small baker y back home, which gave her stability, but restricted her freedom and creativity.
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“I made fun stuff at home, but I didn’t have anyone to sell it to,” she tells MDDM in an exclusive
inter view. “I was ver y limited in what I could do without wasting too much money and product.” Their new shop, Cosmic Donuts, however, lets her innovate, experiment, and add her personality into ever ything she’s doing. “If I like doing it, the product comes out better,” she says. “If my mind ’s not into it, it feels forced and won’t taste how I want it to.” Her approach to baking is what sets Cosmic Donuts apart from dozens of other donut shops in the neighborhood. “I don’t want it to grow too big where I have to hand it over to someone else,” she admits. “I’m not in it for the money; I genuinely love baking for people and adding a personal touch to their experience.” Unlike most others in the food industr y, Julia and Neil don’t want to scale it into a franchise. “I like where we are right
Cosmic Donuts
3 4 | COSMIC DONUTS
Cosmic Donuts
now. We get to do what we love and have fun with it. It doesn’t feel like a job,” she adds. The best part about visiting Cosmic Donuts is that they treat you like a family. Siobhan Miller, MDDM’s Creative Director, frequents the shop with her family. “Neil asks ever y time I come in what our plans are for the day,” her husband, Stephen, says. Neil loves chatting up customers and when they share interesting tid-bits about their personal lives. “People open their arms to us and we reciprocate that energy,” Julia says. Recounting a memorable customer experience, she adds, “I made sugar cookies for a lady for her daughter ’s graduation. When she saw them, she was cr ying in our shop.” She loved the cookies and they touched her emotional side. “It was a special moment, and I’m grateful to be a part of that.” “ When I’m baking it, I don’t even think it ’s going to be so monumental,” she says, “but for them, it ’s on a whole other level. We didn’t know anyone when we came here and we were nervous about how they would take
to it.” But now that it ’s taking off and garnering such a positive response, it feels amazing. “This is exactly what I wanted,” she says. “I want just enough people where I’m not overwhelmed with my work.” While most people jump or begrudgingly crawl out of bed in the morning for work, money, or social status, it ’s the community that inspires Julia. “ When people message me saying they loved what I have created, even if I’m tired, when I hear that or see their faces, that ’s it. When I see how happy my product can make someone, it completely blows my mind. I’ve always baked, but I never realized how much food can affect people. It seems so small, like an ever yday thing, but it creates special moments and occasions.” If you ’re tired of eating the same ol ’ donuts day in and day out, Cosmic has a special surprise planned for you ever y weekend. “The classics are fun, but our vibe is on a whole different level on the weekends,” Julia adds. “It ’s exciting because we never know what we’re going to do. It keeps us thinking about new flavors while keeping the customers on their toes.”
3 5 | COSMIC DONUTS
It can be dif�cult to resist the temptation of a dessert store while you’re watching your weight. Keeping this in mind, the Silers offer smaller portions to make the experience less intimidating. “You can’t have a giant slice of cheesecake along with a donut or a pastry, so you have to choose, but I offer mini sizes so you can have both,” Julia says. If you plan on visiting Cosmic Donuts, you will be spoiled with choice. With such a wide variety of never-before-seen decorative desserts, you’ll want to keep coming back to try them all. “Everything is good,” Julia says, “but I de�nitely recommend the Strawberry shortcake. It’s like a strawberry pie in a donut form,” she adds. “We cut a glazed donut in half, add some fresh whipped cream and strawberries dipped in honey gel.”
“We feel blessed.”
I want to make what people want to eat. What if all this sounds exciting, but you want to eat something special? You’re in for a treat – they’re always open to suggestions. Rather than have a rigid menu of ‘’this is what you can have’,” Cosmic Donuts puts you in the driver’s seat. Most of their items are inspired by their customer’s choices. “I want to make what I want to make, but I also want to meet people in the middle,” Julia says. “I want to feed people what they want to be fed.” Most importantly, they want people to feel at home, hence the name Cosmic Donuts. “We have always been a fan of Sci-Fi and outer space in general, so we wanted to create a fun homey space for people to enjoy.” And surely, people are enjoying the delightful cosmos of color and �avor. A group of teachers recently gave them a social media shout out and their sales blew up. “Everyone came and supported us,” she says. “We feel blessed.” Siobhan Miller
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