PinPointe Towne Lake Nov/Dec '22

ON THE COVER:

Celesta and Pedro Ferreira with sons, Gabriel (left) and Daniel

Photo Credit: Erica Hernandez, Foxtail Photography

Celesta Ferreira, O.D.

The Challenges of Entrepreneurship and Keeping Family in Focus

Foxtail Photography

Life is complicated, especially if you are a busy wife and mother of two young boys. Throw in a fledgling Optometry business, and the challenges begin.

Cypress residents Celesta and Pedro Ferreira first met in 2013. “I was a secondyear student in Optometry School, and he was working as a consultant for an IT company. It was an unlikely place to meet the love of your life: on the dance floor of a nightclub! Interestingly enough, my parents found each other in the same way,” relates Celesta.

“I had just left a long-term relationship and was feeling down, when my good friend asked me to go out dancing. It was 2013, Valentine’s weekend. We went to Red Door Houston, which I don’t even think is still open! I was about to leave to come home, when I spotted the most handsome man I had ever lai d eyes on. I knew I had to meet him, and as I am a very determined person, I walked right up to him and introduced myself. I told him ‘You should take me to dinner sometime!’ Conversation ensued.

Three years later, I was finishing optometry school. He proposed within a few weeks of me completing my externship in Dallas,” recalls Celesta.

Dr. Ferreira was awarded a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition, and graduated on the Dean’s List from The University of Texas at Austin. She acquired her doctorate degree from the University of Houston College of Optometry, and an MBA from The University of Denver. Pedro is employed as a Principal Securities Consultant at Set Solutions, Inc.

Story by Patricia Hudson | Photos by Erica Hernandez with

(from left) Celesta, Gabriel, Pedro, and Daniel

Dr. Ferreira is an Optometrist and owner of Cypress Optique; she opened her doors for business in the Bridgeland area in February of 2022. “I’ve always known I wanted to be my own boss since I was little. Both my parents are entrepreneurs and extremely hard working. Mom showed me how to put my heart and soul into everything I do. I knew I wanted to be able to care for patients the way I saw fit. I wanted to be able to provide the best care possible, always ensuring each patient that they would have a personalized experience at every exam. I wanted to show my children that mom can do anything she sets her mind to, and hopefully, it will inspire them to always reach for the stars.”

Celesta and Pedro have two young children. “Gabriel is three, and Daniel is one. They go to Lycee Montesorri School. Gabe loves soccer and playing outside. He is very creative and is always loving. Daniel is learning how to start kicking the soccer ball with his big brother. He is always smiling and is constantly looking for an adventure,” comments Celesta.

From two culturally diverse backgrounds, the couple has definite ideas on how to educate their children. “We always try to immerse them in the culture through food and music,” explains Celeste. “Pedro speaks to them mostly in Portuguese; we want them to be multilingual. As parents, the most important thing we can teach our sons is for them to always be kind, be brave, and be determined. We want them to know that no dream is too big, as long as they put their hearts and soul into it.”

Holiday plans for the family this year may include some international travel. “We normally alternate holidays, as my family lives in Texas and Pedro’s family lives abroad in Holland,” shares Celesta. “We usually do Thanksgiving with my parents; we may even have it in our home this year. For Christmas, we are looking into traveling with the kiddos to Holland to visit my in-laws.”

With her hectic schedule, sometimes Celeste shares kitchen duties with

her husband. “By far, Pedro is generally better in the kitchen,” she confesses. “His mom and grandma taught him many recipes. I enjoy cooking when I have time and can usually whip up something tasty, if I really try! Our boys love veggies, so we will always do something easy like baked salmon with broccoli and mushrooms. They love rice too, so that’s easy to make and keep for multiple meals throughout the week. We used to meal prep before kids; if time allows, we sometimes try to meal prep for the family.”

For Celesta, the biggest challenge of being a parent and a business entrepreneur is finding the balance. “It’s a constant struggle. Some days, I feel I have a better grasp on it and other days, I feel completely torn. I want to put my ‘all’ into my practice and try my best to become the leader and boss I want to be. But I also don’t want to miss memories or special moments with my k ids at any age. So trying to find the perfect strategy for time management is definitely a priority and a work in progress,” admits this busy mother and entrepreneur.

As parents of two lively young boys, Celesta and Pedro know the importance of making time for one another. “Our favorite form of date night entertainment is a delicious dinner and time to actually talk to each other. When you are a parent, we all know there is not much ‘adult’ conversation. We enjoy just actually talking to each other, undivided attention, and as we are foodies, that’s a must,” asserts Celesta.

If you know of an exceptional Greater Fairfield, Bridgeland/Blackhorse Ranch, Towne Lake, Coles Crossing, or Cypress Creek Lakes individual or family that needs to be featured in an upcoming issue of PinPointe Magazine, please contact me: texasteacher024@outlook.com.

By Allison Okuneye

THE CHALLENGE:

replace criticism for encouragement for 7 whole days.

Earlier this week I had a moment in a conversation where I had a choice. I consciously thought, I don’t really need to share this negativity, the person I am talking to doesn’t even know the parties involved...and as fast as I had that thought, I threw it out of my mind and shared anyways.

I didn’t feel good about it. I had actually paused, had the moment, considered stopping myself, and then still sha red the negativity. It was an intentional choice. And it felt icky.

I havealways believed that you attract the energy that you put out. The phrase misery loves company started before I got here! But what

criticism is EASY, and devastating.

When it comes to conversations with others resist the urge to correct or be critical. If you find it hard and don’t want to be fake, silence is always acceptable. You don’t have to chime in or add when a friend is gossiping. If someone pronounces a word wrong or misspeaks in a meeting, you don’t have to interrupt to correct them. If your spouse forgets something on the way to soccer practice, don’t spend the whole drive harping on about it. Pause, and see if you can find a way to encourage or support that person and turn the conversation into a more positive direction. You might be surprised at the change in your relationships when you choose to encourage and support instead of tearing someone down. It might change your marriage, your work environment, and your relationship with your kids.

if, just for 7 days we chose something different. The truth is, one snide comment did not hurt anything, our conversation and life moved on quickly. I could make myself feel better by consoling myself an d saying I’m not that bad...there are waaay worse people in the world but the truth is I don’t want to compare myself to the worst version of society, rather strive for the best version of myself! I challenge us to try and change our big and little thoughts, and the way we show up in casual conversations to see if we notice a difference in the way we feel, but also how it impacts those closest to us. So are you up for the challenge?

the secret is, you have to actually try.

This 7 day challenge is not going to be easy, but I promise it will be worth it. We have to stop giving ourselves excuses for bad behavior. We are tearing each other down with our words, and too often not putting any effort into building them up. I have seen first hand how that mindset can ruin every level of relationships. If you truly care about those in your circle, you will keep trying to be the best version of yourself. Every critical thought does not need to be given air.

we've got this. day one starts today.

In a time when we share every opinion, vacation, breakfast, and bowel movement with the world it takes maturity and self control to know that not every thought needs to be said. We don’t realize the damage we are doing to others, but also the effect on us internally. The world could use more encouragement, and the people closest to us DEFINITELY can too.

Canine Corner

Christmas is a time when many people consider adding a four-footed member to the family. This decision could be one of the best gifts your family has ever received. We want to share about a little guy that could use a home, not only for the holidays, but forever.

Tammy Simper contacted Canine Corner about a special needs pup that she is fostering for Cypress Lucky Mutt Rescue. “Reggie is a long-term foster; we have been his foster family for 2.5 years. This sweet boy is a terrier mix. He is approximately 4 years old and weighs 13 pounds. Reggie has epilepsy, so he will require an adopter that can commit to providing medications 3 times a day,” she explains.

Cypress Lucky Mutt Rescue is a Houston 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing homeless and abandoned puppies and dogs from high-kill shelters and owners who can no longer care for them. They serve as a resource to our community and all pet owners by providing education and

By Patricia Hudson and Sophia Hudson, the Rescue Yorkiepoo

information on responsible pet ownership, including the importance of spay/neuter, positive behavior training, and good nutrition and care. Those interested in fostering for Cypress Lucky Mutt Rescue, fill out the application at: www.jotform.com/luckymutts/adoption-application or email: luckymuttrescuecypress@gmail.com

HAPPENINGS Cypress

Dewberry Farm 2022 Fall Festival

Open through November 13, 2022

77045 FM 362 @ Morrison Road • Brookshire, TX 77423

Over 40+ Attractions to enjoy during Fall! www.dewberryfarm.com

Cy-Fair Nutcracker Market

Saturday, November 19, 2022 • 9am-5pm

Berry Center • 8877 Barker Cypress • Cypress, TX 77433

Over 250 vendors offering everything from Women's and Children's Clothing, Home, Holiday and Garden Decor, Gourmet Food Items, Hand made and Fashion Jewelry and so much more! Tickets $6.50

Annual Cy-Fair FFA Country Christmas Craft Show

Saturday, December 3 - Sunday, December 4, 2022 • 9am-5pm

Cypress Fairbanks ISD Exhibit Center • 11206 Telge Rd • Cypress, TX More than 175 vendors in over 225 booths. Find a nice variety and many one of a kind items. Get your picture taken with Santa, win some great prizes at Chicken Bingo, take home a cake at the Cake Walk, and enjoy great food at our bake sale, and concessions stand.

Delivery By December 1

Drop off at 9606 Kirkton Drive • Mon-Thu 8:30am-12:30pm or by appointment

For more information about Cy-Fair Helping Hands’ homeless and community programs, go to: www.cyfairhelpinghands.org

Fairfield Christmas Market & Christmas Parade

Saturday, December 3, 2022

CHRISTMAS MARKET: 9am-2pm

Good Shepherd UMC Parking Lot • 20155 Cypresswood Dr. • Cypress

CHRISTMAS PARADE: 5:30pm

Line-up begins at Ault Elementary at 5pm • 21010 Maple Village Dr. Sponsored by Fairfield Women's Club. fairfieldwomensclub.org

Community Mental Health Resource Fair

Wednesday, Dec. 7, 2022 • 3:30-6:30pm

Berry Center • 8877 Barker Cypress • Cypress, TX 77433

Join the CFISD Mental Health Intervention Team to learn about community mental health resources available in our area.

For more local events visit: www.bestofcyfair.com.

And follow us on facebook: Pinpointe Magazines - Cypress

Eji’s on Main Opens Brick and Mortar in Waller PLACES T O EAT The Best of Cy-Fair

Chef’s Tasting

by Patricia Hudson

Several months ago, I received an invitation to attend a Chef’s Tasting and Open House in Waller. Normally, I would have passed, but as the invitation was extended by Chef Dustin and Gina Reed, I made it a point to make the drive. You might recall that we previously featured Eji’s Culinary, named for Dustin’s Grandma Emma Joy and Grandma Irene, in homage to the treasured memories of food and family shared at their tables. The French Le Cordon Bleu trained chef, together with his wife Gina’s own memories of food, family and friends at her Italian Grandma Sedita’s house every week, provided the foundation for Eji’s Culinary Catering and food truck enterprise. The food truck has gone by the wayside. In its place is a charming brick and mortar where Chef Dustin strives to source fresh local ingredients from local farms and small businesses within a 250-mile radius. Eji’s on Main held its Grand Opening on August 20, 2022.

“Dustin and I chose Waller because of the charm and unique qualities of the town. We fell in love with the building that is our new home the minute we saw it. The building was built in 1929; it was a feed store originally. We tried to keep as much of the original building as possible when planning our kitchen build out,” explains Gina.

The Eji’s concept of food service continues to revolve around delicious down-to-earth meals made from scratch. “Eji's on Main offers a three-fold approach. First, customers can come in and order hot food made to order from the counter and take it to go or take it next door to Location Six Brewery. We encourage the latter, as you can enjoy a beer while supporting two small businesses at the same time. Second, we offer prepared meals in our cooler to take home and heat. You will see meals such as Maw Maw's lasagna, Grandma's meatloaf, mashed potatoes and green beans, and Eji's Chicken N Dumplins'. In a rush during lunch? Just grab one of these meals and take it back to the office to heat up, or come in and get meals for the whole week,” comments Gina. “Lastly, we are offering some of our

Dijon Thyme Pork Tenderloin

space to other local, small businesses to sell their products. We currently have vendors who make hand poured soy wax candles, handmade clay earrings, shea butter and kombucha. We are always searching for new small businesses that we can help promote and get their name and product out to the local community.”

The Chef’s Tasting showcased a delightful selection from Chef Dustin’s repertoire: Dijon Thyme Pork Tenderloin with Strawberry balsamic onion jam and sherry mustard cream, “Yard Bird” of buttermilk fried chicken breast, Chappell Hill hickory smoked

bacon, Pure Luck goat cheese, balsamic roasted tomatoes, spring mix, shaved red onion, cilantro lime aioli, and fougasse, and Eji’s Umami Burger, Texas Gyulais (Wagyu) beef patty, fried duck egg, gruyere cheese peanut butter jalapeno bacon jam on a potato bun. Equally delectable offerings of side dishes were sampled and savored. Dustin and Gina have kept their irresistible Mini Bread puddings on the menu; I couldn’t decide which was my favorite: the Lemon Blueberry or the Triple Chocolate! Want to share the Eji’s on Main Experience? Consider booking a Chef’s Table Dinner with your friends and family. It’s worth a drive out to Waller.

Eji’s on Main 2322 Main Street Waller, TX 77484 713-423-7976 info@ejisculinary.com www.ejisculinary.com

Mini Bread Puddings

Chef Dustin and Gina Reed

by Liz Arrington

As October winds down in Houston- the days start to feel a little more chilly, a little more cozy, and a lot more festive. It’s a time where many of us are able to reflect on the year behind us, and take stock of all we have and all we hope to gain.

For many people, this is the season of giving. As we reflect on our lives with gratitude, we are often impressed with the desire to give back. Abundant Thanksgiving meals are a luxury while there are so many families in our community struggling to put food on the table all month long. All the gifts and extravagance of the Christmas season fill our spirits with joy, while so many go without. Gratitude has the incredible power to soften our hearts to the needs of others.

Traditionally, there are a number of ways to give back during the winter holiday season. You’ ll begin to see opportunities to serve and contribute to local nonprofits, food pantries, and assistance programs. Schools, churches and community centers usually host large food drives, gift drives, or sponsorship opportunities to help provide support for families in need.

This spirit of giving is synonymous with the holidays, and Cypress really shines in the way that our city comes together with Texas-s ized generosity. I’ll be the first to admit, when it comes to giving back, it’s not something I do nearly often enough. Or, it feels that way at the end of the year when I’m counting my blessings and realizing I could have given more. Like most busy parents juggling an overwhelming amount of tasks and responsibilities week after week all year long, the months absolutely fly by. I’m guilty of saying, “Life will settle down as soon as…..” over and over while life proceeds to never actually settle down.

For most of us- just getting started is the most daunting aspect of giving back. Time and money seem to be the two things I never have enough of, so the idea of adding anything that is going to demand MORE of these two precious resources absolutely stops me in my tracks.

Recently I sat down to brainstorm ways that I can make an impact that works with my busy life instead of comparing myself to others around me. Sometimes, it’s just a matter of taking the small steps that open yourself up to the opportunities that are around you.

Here are some of small steps you can take:

● Find and follow causes and organizations that resonate with you on social media, or join their mailing list. These groups are very good at letting people know exactly what they need, and often it’s simple things that make a big difference.

● Talk to that one friend. You know the one. The one who is always posting about their latest project or cause? They can often point you in a good direction for starting out. Or, they’ll welcome you to join them!

● Think outside the box. Most local groups often rely on volunteers or have a very small st aff. Do you have skills that could support their goals? Graphic Design, writing, social media posts, photography, web design, analytics, these are all high level skills that can overwhelm and slow down progress in the non-profit sector.

● Involve the whole family! Even young children enjoy giving back and caring for others. Whether it’s a monthly volunteer opportunity locally, a project you can work on together at home, or simply having discussions about helping others and causes that are important to your family.

Giving back in a way that is personal, meaningful, and specific can be so incredibly rewarding. There is room in your life for it, and with a little creative thinking you can absolutely find a way to incorporate ways to give back into your life all year long!

Liz Arrington combines her background as a professional children’s therapist with her love of music to provide early childhood music and movement classes to families of Cypress. Outdoor, Weekday, and Saturday classes available. See more at www.songfulbeginnings.com

A Taste of Cy-Fair Sells Out, Nets $70K for Cy-Hope

Around

CYPRESS

Story by Patricia Hudson

A Taste of Cy-Fair, cancelled in 2020 and 2021 due to the Pandemic, came back with a bang in 2022. Mark McShaffry, Cy-Hope board member, owner of Backyard Grill and Creekwood Restaurants, and founder of the event, was pleased with the effort benefitting CyHope. “Before the gates opened, we had a soldout crowd of 2,100. The event netted over $70K for Cy-Hope programs,” reports McShaffry.

Bigger and better than ever, 50 restaurants, 43 market vendors, 34 breweries, 12 wineries, community businesses and musical performances provided an exciting evening of beer and wine samplings, food tasting and entertainment.

Cy-Hope Executive Director Lynda Dierker expressed appreciation to the Taste of Cy-Fair steering committee, the sponsors and the Bridgeland community for hosting the event.

“Thank you for supporting Cy-Hope. We continue to make life better for kids because every student deserves hope for a brighter future and to become a well-educated and productive citizen.”

Find out more about CyHope at their website: www.cy-hope.org

ASK THE D O C:

Feel Like You Always Have Food Stuck in Your Throat? You May Have Dysphagia

Other symptoms that suggest dysphagia

Of course difficulty swallowing or inability to swallow are major indications of dysphagia. Other symptoms include:

•Pain while swallowing•Drooling

•Hoarseness

•Frequent heartburn

•Persistent sensation of food getting stuck in the throat or chest

•Sensations of regurgitation of food or stomach acid

•Gagging or coughing while swallowing

Bharat Pothuri, MD, FACG Gastro Doxs

The irritating and even painful sensation of having something stuck in your throat can happen to anyone. But, if it’s persistent and causes you chronic irritation, coughing, and difficulty in swallowing your own saliva, it could indicate a serious medical condition. If you’re struggling with these symptoms, you may have dysphagia. Up to 700,000 Americans suffer from this condition each year. Our gastroenterologist, Dr. Bharat Pothuri, at GastroDoxs in Houston, Texas, is available to diagnose and treat uncomfortable and potentially dangerous dysphagia. Here’s what you need to know about dysphagia

Dysphagia defined

Dysphagia is difficulty swallowing foods or drinks. A one-off case of getting a piece of food caught in your throat is normal and not a cause for concern. However, if you have difficulty swal lowing or moving food and liquid from your mouth to your stomach regularly – for months even – it is likely dysphagia.

Dysphagia can affect anyone of any age, but is particularly common among older adults and people with certain conditions like:

•Nervous system disorders, including stroke, head injury, dementia, or multiple sclerosis

•Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

•Cancer, including mouth and esophageal cancer

Dysphagia can be painful and make it almost impossible to swallow at times.

Dysphagia can cause unintended weight loss, malnutrition, and dehydration. Patients can also develop aspiration pneumonia from food or liquid entering the airway as they attempt to swallow. The food or fluid introduces bacteria into the lungs.

Choking is another possible effect of dysphagia. Food may block the airway when a patient attempts to swallow.

What to do about dysphagia

The first step is to get a diagnosis. If you or a loved one has symptoms of the condition, consult with Dr. Pothuri. He’ll do a thorough exam, review the patient’s medical history, and evaluate symptoms.

He can then determine which imaging tests are necessary for full diagnosis. X-rays with a contrast material, dynamic swallowing studies, CT scans, and endoscopy are options.

Treatment for dysphagia depends on the severity and nature of the condition. You may undergo learning exercises to coordinate swallowing muscles or to restimulate the nerves that trigger the swallowing reflex.

For people with dysphagia due to a tight esophageal sphincter or stricture in the throat, Dr. Pothuri might use a special strategy to expand and stretch the esophagus. If GERD causes your dysphagia, medications can help control stomach a cid and your symptoms.In severe cases, surgery may be required. This is true if you have narrowing or blockages caused by bony outgrowths or cancer.

If you think you are suffering from dysphagia contact Gastro Doxs today at 832.632.4070 or book an appointment with Dr. Pothuri and his team online at gastrodox.com.

CYPRESS SCHOOL NEWS

Source: CFISD News Media

Cypress Woods HS Student, Alumna Cast in Broadway Musical Parade

Cypress Woods High School senior Erin Doyle and Class of 2016 graduate Ashlyn Maddox were recently cast in the Broadway musical Parade.

The musical, which first premiered on Broadway in 1998, tells the true story of Leo Frank, a Jewish man who was wrongfully accused and convicted of the murder of a 13year-old girl in 1913. The show received nine Tony Award nominations in 1999, winning two for book and score.

Doyle has been cast as “Mary Phagan,” one of the lead characters of the musical, and Maddox has been cast as one of the “Factory Girls,” in addition to playing an ensemble role. A nationwide open casting call was put out for the part of Mary Phagan. Doyle, who is a personal fan of Parade, was encouraged by her older sister to audition for the role. Doyle submitted a virtual audition and received an invitation for an in-person callback in New York City. Three days after her callback, Doyle was offered the part.

As like Doyle, Maddox is no stranger to professional musical theatre. She’s starred as “Dorothy” in the Wagon Wheel Center for the Arts production of Wizard of Oz, “Zaneeta” in the Wagon Wheel Center for the Arts production of The Music Man and most recently was cast as “Jane Doe” in the McCarter Theatre Center production of Ride the Cyclone.

District 16-6A Girls’ Water Polo Athletes Earn 2022 League Honors

District 16-6A girls’ water polo coaches recently released the 2022 All-District 16-6A Girls’ Water Polo Team, following the conclusion of each team’s season in the UIL playoffs.

Four schools were represented among the three district superlatives. That includes Bridgeland High School, which captured the inaugural district championship.

Cypress Ranch High School senior Sarah Feely and Langham Creek High School senior Morgan Evans shared the league’s Most Valuable Player. Bridgeland junior Hannah Heinrich was voted Goalkeeper of the Year.

The following CFISD student-athletes were among those named to the first team, second team and honorable mention all-district teams:

First Team CY-RANCH Rachel Cook Sarah Feely Jasmitha Munnangi BRIDGELAND Hannah Heinrich Sarah Klussmann Mikha Torres

Second Team CY-RANCH Lana Isra Ally Pantin BRIDGELAND Jayden Cannon Clara Koenig Ella Paul

Bridgeland, Cy-Fair, Cypress Woods Bands Qualify for State Contest

The Bridgeland, Cy-Fair and Cypress Woods high school marching bands will represent CFISD at the UIL State Marching Contest after being among the five bands selected to advance from the UIL Area I Marching Band Contest, held Oct. 29 at the Berry Center.

Bridgeland earned its third consecutive bid to the state competition. “We could not be more excited for the students and our community,” said Shawn McAnear, Bridgeland head band director. “Advancing to the UIL State Marching Contest for a third consecutive year and competing against the very best bands in Texas is an honor. Our program is establishing a culture of excellence and it is an absolute blast to watch the band perform each time. Go Bears!”

For Cypress Woods, the 2022 contest will mark the band’s thi rd straight trip and fourth overall to San Antonio.

All 12 CFISD bands participated in the area competition preliminaries, and Bridgeland, Cy-Fair, Cypress Woods and Jersey Village were among the 10 out of 29 total ensembles chosen to advance to the area finals on Saturday night.

“I am extremely proud of all of our CFISD high school marching bands for an exciting UIL competition season,” said John Morrison,

Honorable Mention CY-RANCH Hope Fischer BRIDGELAND Isabelle Fielding

director of fine arts. “We are grateful for the passionate teachers, students and parents to bring such fantastic performances to our community. We wish all the best to Bridgeland, Cy-Fair and Cypress Woods high schools as they chase their next best performance at the UIL State Marching Band Championships next week in San Antonio.”

More information at www.uiltexas.org/music/marching-band/state

Bridgeland, Cy-Fair and

Cypress Woods high school drum majors and color guard captains pose for a photo following their selections to the UIL State Marching Contest.

Cypress Woods High School senior Erin Doyle, left, and Cypress Woods Class of 2016 graduate Ashlyn Maddox

Cy-Ranch senior Sarah Feely