December 2022

GIFTS&PRESENCE

I was literally a Christmas present (to both of my parents that is). I was born on Christmas Eve December 24, 1974. My mom said only babies that demanded to be born on this day are... that’s because no deliveries or surgeries are scheduled during the holidays on purpose. I was already late, so the plan was to induce right after Christmas. I had other plans!

The usual hustle-and-bustle of any busy hospital was missing on this day. The hospital wasn’t crowded at all because of the holiday scheduling break. Only a few other soon-to-bemommies with babies who wouldn’t wait were there with my mom. She has always explained that day as if she had a red carpet rolled out for her. This made it easy to be fully in the moment of becoming a first-time mom—to be undistracted and fully present. I came home from the hospital in a stocking. My whole body fit inside of what today can hold only one of my feet inside.

Every time someone sees my birthdate on my driver’s license they say, “Oh a Christmas baby—that must have been hard.” It wasn’t. My mom did a really great thing for me. She decided that I’d have a ‘Party Day’ on my half birthday in the summer on June 24th. This didn’t mean that we ignored my actual Christmas Eve birthday, but the summer was when I invited all of my friends to a party to celebrate. At our family’s Christmas celebration, I always opened one big birthday present and had the same kind of cake, heard ‘Happy Birthday’ sang to me and blew out my candles. Oh, and I forgot to mention that on my summer celebration cake there was always a half candle along with the others since it was officially my half birthday.

I guess that my actual birth date being Christmas Eve could have been a real downer, but my mom had the foresight and the presence in my life to make it wonderfully special. The funny thing is that I may have been a Christmas present for my parents, but my mom’s presence in my life has been my true gift. Thank you mom... and may we all remember the real gift of Christmas.

ELENA ELLIS Publisher / Editorial Director

elena@societylifemagazine.com

“God gave us the gift of life — it is up to us to give ourselves the gift of living well.”

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FaithFull SL

MOVING FORWARD BY FAITH

BY TRISHA MITCHELL

– Philippians 3:13

As the new year approaches, we all have an opportunity to do things differently. A chance to forget the former things, and grab hold to the new things God wants to do through our lives (Isaiah 43:18-19).

2 Peter 1:3 assures us that God has given us everything we need that pertains to life and godliness. Unfortunately, many of us begin every new year with unfulfilled goals, unrealized dreams, unrestored relationships and unpaid bills. But praise be to God for His unwavering plan to prosper us and give us hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11).

In James 4:13-16 we discover an enormous amount of hostility towards people who make plans. People who declare “today or tomorrow we will go into such and such town and spend a year there and trade and make a profit” were frowned upon. The writer considered these people vain because they had no idea what tomorrow would bring. Even though he attempted to offer a humbler way to approach every day, he viewed “planners” as boastful, arrogant and sinful. While the context is geared towards people concerned with business and money, it serves as a keen reminder that penciling events on our calendar does not equate with accomplishment.

Look! There’s absolutely nothing wrong with making plans or New Year’s resolutions. The Bible contains countless scriptures regarding “making plans.” The problem arises when we allow our plans to cancel out God’s. We forget that it is He that determines our steps. Regardless of how impressive our plans may seem; we must remain mindful that God has the last “say-so” (Proverbs 16:9).

Yes! God wants to grant each of us the desires of our heart. But He will only help us fulfill our plans if they line up with His (Psalms 20:4). Why? Because His plans are far better than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9). Does this mean that making resolutions are a waste of time? Certainly not. What it means is that our future is more favorable because God has gone before us to make the outcome

better—better than it would have been had we entered it without Him. Let’s be honest, we all know someone whose entire life was meticulously planned and stored in a leather binder only to have their plans drastically disrupted by a bad business deal, failed marriage, the death of a loved one, ailing health or some other unfavorable circumstance. Hence, a wellplanned life can still experience events that bankrupts faith and steal our peace (and our hair). However, trusting God’s plan takes the pressure off of ourselves to perform and places it on God (to fulfill His promise). We can better align our plans with God’s by tackling tasks He assigns and do away with those we heap upon ourselves (Ecclesiastes 7:18).

This helps to alleviate the anxiety associated with all the unreasonable pressure we place on ourselves. According to Matthew 6:34, “there’s no reason to be anxious about tomorrow, because each day we face has its own amount of trouble.” In other words, we must conquer the task before us today. Then deal with troubles heading towards us tomorrow… tomorrow. Personally, I stopped making New Year’s Resolutions years ago when I realized how unsuccessful I was at accomplishing them. I have several planners. Some completely void of any documented activity. Others full of unfulfilled undertakings. At this point in my life, I do what God allows and whatever the day permits. That’s all. Nothing more. Nothing less.

As Believers, it takes great faith to walk into our destiny. It’s been said that we don’t have to fear what the future holds when we know The One Who holds our future. I agree! There is “nothing impossible with God” (Luke 1:37). He will never force us to approve His plan. Instead, He gives each of us an opportunity to accept, adhere to and appreciate it. Therefore, I choose to trust Him with everything. I declare that I shall walk into 2023 with courage, confidence and a cup of hot cocoa!

— Hope to see y’all in the new year!

“…but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead.”

PICTURED .................................... (from left to right)

Kim Daugherty, Kim Itzla, Rachelle Limosnero, Dr. Natashia Jones, and Dr. Liz Graves

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Cover2Cover

RIPE READS BOOK REVIEWS BY SANDY LOWE

‘Tis the season for familial warmth and gratitude. That’s exactly where Laura Downey Hill, the former mayor of Southlake, starts her new book, “Walking in My Shoes.” The early chapters are a little like turning the pages of a family photo album in front of the fireplace with a good friend. Laura tells readers where she came from—starting with her parents’ courtship and marriage. It’s after she and her siblings come along that the fun really starts.

Don’t miss the story of Laura’s first TV appearance, a weeklong visit to the Romper Room program, where she announced an embarrassing family secret to the whole viewing audience. But this memoir is more than just a family reunion. Laura started a career in the hospitality industry right after college graduation. She spent more than a decade moving up the ladder in a male-dominated business. And she has stories to tell about growing into leadership, managing bad bosses and overcoming mistakes.

As we travel through her life, Laura continues to share hard-won wisdom. Her learning comes from experiences many of us have known. No matter what life dealt her—constantly overcoming “new kid syndrome” with her family’s moves, divorce, work/life

balance as a single mom, changing careers and her political adventures, she continued to learn and grow. We enjoy the benefit of her experience written in a very straightforward and deeply felt style.

The book overflows with gems about how to build a team, how to motivate employees, how to find mentors who will help you grow and how to mentor others. Here’s one of my favorites: “One of the keys to effective leadership is to unlock other people’s potential by making them feel valued.” If you’ve ever worked for a boss (or two or three) who had no idea what this means, you’ll understand why it almost jumps off the page.

After Laura and her siblings were grown, her dad decided to start his own business and asked her to join him. So the book includes Laura’s valuable lessons in building your own company instead of working for someone else’s.

When Laura chose to run for office, she applied all the things she had learned over her life. The high energy of public service suited her well.

“Walking in My Shoes” could be called a short course in learning to lead. You might want to pick up extra copies for spring graduation gifts.

DOWNEY HILL

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Laura Downey Hill has seen a lot of the USA. Born in Maryland, she spent her early years moving around the country due to her father’s job. She received her degree from Randolph-Macon Woman’s College in Lynchburg, Virginia. After a move to Texas to join her father’s business, Downey Publishing, she served on the Southlake City Council from 2004-2011 and again from 2013-2015. She was elected as Southlake’s first female mayor in 2015 and served until 2021. She is a wife and the mother of three grown children, four dogs, and eight rescued donkeys.

“A story about leadership and what I experienced as a woman over six decades.”

– Laura Downey Hill

A SMALL PART OF A BIGGER STORY

TidBits

BOUTIQUE HÔTEL SWEXA

TO OPEN IN DALLAS SUMMER OF 2023

Harwood International, the global Dallasbased real estate firm announced the company’s flagship boutique hotel property, Hôtel Swexan is set to open in the summer of 2023. Hôtel Swexan will serve as the crown jewel of the more-walkablethan-ever 19-city block Harwood District. Hôtel Swexan’s moniker stands for “Swiss meets Texan,” inspired by Harwood International founders’ Swiss-Texan family heritage. Operated by Harwood Hospitality Group with a collective of 100 years of experience, the destination represents a complete expression of the group’s fivedecade-long vision for the Harwood neighborhood in Dallas. The hotel’s design is reflective of the founders’ travels and passion for art and design, offering guests an immersive European-inspired journey throughout the multi-faceted, transformative spaces. Hôtel Swexan will bring the neighborhood world-class culinary, entertainment, and cultural experiences layered throughout the building. Designed with all generations in mind, the hotel will play host to an eclectic mix of personalities where locals and visitors collide.“It is with great pride that we announce Hôtel Swexan... with exquisite design, an exceptional location, and a nod to the company’s Swiss-Texan heritage, the firstof-its-kind destination will introduce a new level of style and distinctive Swiss-inspired luxury to our great city,” said Jessica Young Reid, Director of Marketing, Harwood International. “We hope the space will become a bestloved culinary, cultural, and nightlife des tination in the heart of Harwood District.”

SOUTHLAKE WOMEN’S

CLUB IS CALLING ALL CHARITIES 2023 ART IN THE SQUARE BENEFICIARY APPLICATION

Since 2000 the Southlake Women’s Club Foundation’s caring commitment has given over $3.2M to philanthropic organizations across NE Tarrant County and 74 different charities have received funding to help their clients. Now is the time! Submit your charity’s grant application for consideration as a 2023 Art in the Square beneficiary. The deadline for applications is January 15, 2023. The 2023 grant application and guidelines are available at the website listed below. The Southlake Women’s Club Foundation invites 501c3 organizations that serve women, children and families in Northeast Tarrant County to apply for funding from the 2023 Art in the Square proceeds. All application must be submitted online. No mailed printed applications are being accepted. The Southlake Women’s Club has created a nationally ranked juried art festival that partners with artists, volunteers and sponsors to help make a commitment in the community. The 2023 Art in the Square will be held April 28-30 at Southlake Town Square. Mark your calendar to attend. Take the time to experience the art, the music, the food, the fun, and so much more with your family and your friends! at the 2023 art show.

artinthesquare.com

GRACE CHRISTMAS COTTAGE OPEN FOR FAMILIES

GRACE hosted its Christmas Cottage Open House event on Tuesday, Dec. 6th as a way to kick start the holiday season of serving children and families in the community. The evening was also designed to thank the hundreds of volunteers and supporters of this year’s Christmas Cottage. Attendees were encouraged to help by bringing new, unwrapped toys to donate to the cottage. “The Christmas Cottage is a program that many families in our own backyard look forward to each year,” said Shonda Schaefer, GRACE’s CEO. “The role that the community plays in donating, volunteering, or supporting the Cottage is very important to the entire mission of GRACE.” GRACE would like to thank Steve Brown with Esparza’s for catering the delicious food, Tessa Butterfield with Piattelli Vineyards for providing the wonderful wine, and Todd Bockenfeld with HTeaO for tea. Other thank you’s included building owners Mike Levitt and Blake Lugash along with property manager Jeannine Turley, Mark Boone with Realty Capital Management, LeeAnn Brown with Silver Oak Commercial Realty, and Andy Gabeheart with Office Interior Group who helped install the temporary walls for this space. The GRACE Christmas Cottage serves the families facing financial hardship due to limited income or a recent emergency. Each qualified family is given a hypothetical budget that allows parents to “buy” donated toys, home goods, and appliances in a private, store-like setting. This approach allows families to budget their resources and select unique presents while preserving the family's dignity. gracegrapevine.org

THE APEX ARTS LEAGUE IS PROVIDING A HOME FOR THE ARTS BRINGING THE ARTS TO THE APEX OF THE METROPLEX

Whatever arts you use, promote or enjoy, the Apex Arts League is here for you. They are dedicated to actively advancing arts, artists and arts education while promoting the concept and reality of a regional home for the arts in our area. Where is the Apex? They’ve derived their unique “Apex” name as a descriptor of where they are focusing their efforts within the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex of North Central Texas. “The Apex of the Metroplex” is self-identified as the area north of the center line of Dallas and Fort Worth. This is where The Apex Arts League volunteers are organizing to bring more quality arts opportunities closer to home.

The vision of the Apex Arts League includes a commitment to enhance our community by establishing a home for the arts in our area. They have considered several options for establishing a center for the arts—a building to meet the needs of our community. As this important process continues, they will continue to offer support and consultative expertise regarding any facility options that may arise. The ongoing and dominant focus of Apex involves establishing a vibrant, high-quality and enriching home for the arts. They remain committed to presenting professional arts performances and events, providing unique arts education opportunities, and promoting the arts through our partnerships in the community.

...........................................................................................................................

APEX Mission | To enhance appreciation, provide access, and promote participation in the arts in our community—the Apex of the D/FW Metroplex— through partnership with leading arts and civic organizations.

APEX Vision | To provide quality cultural, civic, and educational programs, cultivating a vibrant home for the arts, and supporting development of a regional center for the arts.

APEX Goals | To provide high-quality professional and community arts events and activities. To provide arts education opportunities for all ages. To continue to increase diversity of and participation in arts programming. To provide support for a new venue for the performing and visual arts.

They are extremely appreciative of White’s Chapel United Methodist Church, Carroll Independent School District, the City of Southlake, Southlake Town Square, Watermere and the First Methodist Church of Grapevine for sharing their facilities with APEX and enabling them to present a variety of exciting, innovative, and quality programming to Northeast Tarrant County. They look forward to continuing these partnerships and exploring new options for venues as they bring the arts closer to home.

to learn more or see event schedule, please visit: apexartsleague.com

KCPAAA RAFFLE

KELLER CITIZENS POLICE ACADEMY ALUMNI ASSOC

The KCPAAA is holding a fundraising Raffle to be drawn on April 22, 2023 at 7:30pm at the Crawfish Krawl at the Keller City Hall. Prizes include a GLOCK 43X from Bear Creek Firearms, Two Brothers Winery Wine Tasting for 10, Ryobi One+ Trimmer Edger from Home Depot, Horizon 76 Gift Card, Z Bar Cattle Co. Gift Card, and a Keller Chophouse Gift Card. The Keller Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association (KCPAAA) is a 501c3 Charitable Organization serving the Keller Police Department. They provide equipment and support to Keller Police Department (KPD) officers and recognition to the officers and KPD civilians for events like National First Responders Day, Patriot’s Week, National Public Safety Telecommunications Week, and National Correctional Officers Week. They also provide the police department with meals and goodies when the department is working on major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. The KCPAAA is fully staffed by volunteers who are graduates of the Keller Citizen Police Academy (KCPA). The KCPA is offered yearly by the Keller Police Department to Keller and Westlake residents and persons working in the cities of Keller or Westlake. You can buy your tickets now for the KCPAAA fundraising Raffle. Winners for the prizes above will be drawn on April 22, 2023 at 7:30pm at the Crawfish Krawl at the Keller City Hall. Tickets are $5 each or five for $20. To buy tickets please email: kellerCPAAA@gmail.com kcpaaa.org

FORT WORTH

CITIES

ANNUAL MAYOR’S INTERNATIONAL DINNER AND GLOBAL AWARDS

Fort Worth Sister Cities International’s 26th Annual Mayor’s International Dinner and Global Awards was held November 3, 2022 in the Fort Worth Convention Center Ballroom last week. Mayor Mattie Parker and dinner chairs, Joanne and David Campbell, led the crowd of 400+ through an evening of international cuisine and entertainment as Sister Cities celebrated its 35-year relationship with Trier, Germany. Global Awards were presented to individuals, businesses, and organizations that have made significant contributions to citizen diplomacy, global understanding, world political stability and international commerce in the following categories.

ELYSE DICKERSON & JOE GRIFFIN, CO-FOUNDERS OF EOSERA – GLOBAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP AWARD. This award was created to recognize a trailblazing business based on their vision to achieve their goals and to promote Fort Worth globally, developing international partnerships and establishing global connections to provide understanding of other cultures.

THE FORT WORTH ZOO – GLOBAL CITIZENS AWARD. This award recognizes organizations that are connected globally and are good representatives of Fort Worth creating a positive view of the U.S. through educational, humanitarian or cultural initiatives.

MRS. RENFRO’S – GLOBAL NEXUS AWARD. This award recognizes businesses that are connected globally and are good representatives of Fort Worth to the world creating commerce and a healthier community for all.

JACQUES MARQUIS – GLOBAL IMPACT AWARD. This award is based on an individual’s role in promoting Fort Worth globally, developing international partnerships, and establishing connections, particularly in the areas of business, culture, education, immigration, and tourism.

The event was made possible by the Fort Worth Sister Cities Members Circle of Giving, a network of individuals, organizations, corporations and community leaders committed to expanding global relationships for peace and prosperity at home and abroad. Funding and in-kind support from the City of Fort Worth (4% of Sister Cities’ budget) play a key role in its mission, but most of its work is made possible through public support. Entertainment was provided by performers from the TCU Opera Studio, along with Alan Walling for a finale of German toasts and accordion music.

Fort Worth Sister Cities International is uniquely poised to give our local residents the ability to truly experience other cultures, whether at home or abroad.

to learn more, please visit: fwsistercities.org

SISTER

INTERNATIONAL’S 26TH

GET OUT THE TOPS HATS AND BRING ON THE BUBBLY— IT’S TIME TO PARTY LIKE IT’S 2023. DFW RINGS IN THE NEW YEAR WITH A TON OF EVENTS, BUT WE HAVE DONE THE LEGWORK TO FIND THE BEST OF THE BEST.

ALSO LISTED ARE FAMILY-FRIENDLY EVENTS TO CELEBRATE THE ARRIVAL OF 2023 WITH THOSE LITTLE ONES IN THE FAMILY WHO CAN’T QUITE HANG UNTIL THE STROKE OF MIDNIGHT.

LIGHTS ALL NIGHT 2022 DALLAS CONVENTION CENTER

December 29 and 30

Join Texas’ biggest and longest running end-of-year bash! This year’s headliners include Boogie T, Charles Feelgood, Veil and Anden along with many others. Single day tickets are $104.95 for December 29 and December 30. VIP tickets, available only for those 21 and older, include express ticket entry into LIGHTS ALL NIGHT, access to the pre-party, specialized event hosts to assist with on-site needs, private VIP restrooms and an exclusive VIP bar. VIP tickets are available starting at $174.95 per day. DETAILS: General admission tickets and VIP passes are available to purchase now at: LightsAllNight.com .........................................................................

GLASS CACTUS NEW YEAR’S EVE BASH GLASS CACTUS NIGHTCLUB, GRAPEVINE

December 31

NEW YEAR’S EVE HAPPENINGS TO RING IN 2023 nye

Ring in the New Year at Glass Cactus overlooking beautiful Lake Grapevine. This year, they are going back in time to the 70s with live entertainment by disco cover band Le Freak! Tickets start at $100 for General Admission, $150 for VIP General Admission, and $650 for VIP Table Reservations. General Admission includes a champagne toast at midnight and festive party favors. VIP Admission includes a champagne toast at midnight, festive party favors, passed hors d’oeuvres and one drink ticket. General admission tickets do not guarantee table or seating. Doors open at 8pm with Triple Lindy kicking off and Le Freak starting the party at 9pm. DETAILS: Purchase tickets online at: glasscactus.gaylordtexan.com

NEW YEAR’S EVE MASQUERADE HOTEL VIN, GRAPEVINE December 31

Kick-off 2023 with a four-course dinner, followed by a night of “gambling” and live music by Mix Tape—the fun, party band rocking all the songs you love! Start your evening at 7pm in Hotel Vin's gorgeous Bordeaux Ballroom with a four-course meal paired with decadent wines, followed by blackjack and dancing to Mix Tape's variety of music including covers ranging from rock, pop, R&B, hiphop, dance music and modern country. Of course, there will be a champagne toast at midnight and party favors. Tickets range from $100 to $275 per person and includes gratuity. DETAILS: Doors open at 7pm. For tickets and more information, visit: hotelvin.com

EMERALD CITY ROCK THE ‘23 PARTY HILTON ANATOLE, DALLAS

December 31

Every year, Emerald City’s New Year’s Eve Party in Dallas gets bigger and better, and 2023 is no exception! This year Emerald City has teamed up again with the Hilton Anatole in downtown Dallas to bring you the Ultimate New Year’s Eve Dallas Party. Rock the 2023 is the ultimate NYE party, people come every year from all over the country to dance the night away and bring in the New Year with Emerald City Band, America’s #1 Party Band. Make sure to get your NYE Dallas tickets early. This event always sells out. DETAILS: Tickets range from $95 for just the party and drinks to $225 for VIP complete with dinner service. For tickets and more information, please visit: ECNYE.com

HONKY TONK NYE MAMA TRIED, IRVING

December 31

It’s a Saturday Night Honky Tonk New Year’s Eve. Get all gussied up and come

ring in the new year at Mama Tried. They’ll have South Texas Tweek bringing the boogie all night and a complimentary red solo cup champagne toast at midnight. Mama Tried is a 5,000 square foot music venue that also boasts a spacious patio overlooking Texas Lottery Plaza at the Toyota Music Factory, complete with 24 flat screens of sports. On New Year’s Eve, as always, admission is freer’n Costco samples. DETAILS: Doors open at 3pm. For more log on to: mamtriedtexas.com

NEW YEARS EVE PARTY FEATURING RANDY ROGERS BAND BILLY BOB’S TEXAS, FORT WORTH December 31

Ring in the New Year Texas Country-style with Randy Rogers Band. Billy Bob’s offers a one-of-a-kind experience in the heart of the Fort Worth Stockyards. While you’re there, check out the Honky Tonk Kitchen and the historic Handprint Wall of Fame. Doors Open at 6pm. Todd Stewart kicks things off at 8pm on the Honky Tonk Stage. Randy Rogers starts at 10pm on the Main Stage. DETAILS: Tickets are $65 to

$85 for reserved seating and $30 for general admission. For additional information and ticket purchases, contact Billy Bob’s at (817) 624-7117 or visit: BillyBobsTexas.com

NEW YEAR'S EVE -

THE CONCERT:

A TRIBUTE TO ABBA BASS PERFORMANCE HALL, FORT WORTH

December 31

They’re so entertaining, you’ll be chanting “Gimme, Gimme, Gimme” more and springing from your seat like the “Dancing Queen” you truly are. With sold-out shows at the famous Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles and Highland Park in Chicago, it’s easy to see why many critics agree this group is the most amazing and authentic ABBA tribute show in the world. Ring in your new year with an evening of one of the greatest pop phenomena! DETAILS: Tickets range from $55 to $154. The show starts at 7:30pm. Visit: fwsymphony.org

GLITZ & GLAM: NYE PARTY THE VIRGIN HOTEL, DALLAS December 31

Get glammed up and ring in 2023 at

Virgin Hotel Dallas. This Glitz & Glam soiree will span the entire fourth floor of the hotel. Dance under hundreds of disco balls with two parties and two DJs all night long. Reserve a table with bottle packages or purchase a ticket for open bar. Enjoy a 4-hour open bar from 8:30pm until 12:30am with premium spirits and champagne, plus complimentary bites from 8pm until 11pm. This countdown to midnight promises the best views of the skyline and famous downtown Dallas fireworks. DETAILS: Tickets start at $75. For more, visit: virginhotels.com/dallas

FAMILY-FRIENDLY EVENTS

LONE STAR CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR’S

GAYLORD TEXAN, GRAPEVINE

Through January 1, 2023

There is no better way to kick off 2023 with family than with Christmas at Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center in Grapevine. ICE! returns this holiday season. Step into a wonderland carved by

expert artisans out of two million pounds of colorful ice. You'll see the story of The Polar Express in larger-than-life sculptures and even plunge down slides made entirely of ice in this Gaylord Hotels original experience. Additional fun activities include snow tubing, gingerbread decorating and ice skating. DETAILS: For tickets, call (817) 778-1000 or visit them online at: ChristmasAtGaylordTexan.com

SNOWLAND

GREAT WOLF LODGE

Through January 4, 2023

Escape to the warmth of Snowland, Great Wolf Lodge’s annual holiday celebration. It’s an immersive winter wonderland filled with seasonal festivities, games, crafts, special events and more. During Snowland, guests will enjoy a life-size Gingerbread House, Frosty Fest Family Dance Party, Snowland Yoga Tails, Snowland Bingo and much more. And even though it is Snowland, families can still experience the 84-degree indoor waterpark, the largest indoor waterpark in Texas. But don’t forget your toboggan because

SL 2023 nye

there’s a daily indoor snow show right in the lobby! DETAILS: Located at 100 Great Wolf Drive in Grapevine. For more information visit: GreatWolf.com

GIFT OF LIGHTS

TEXAS MOTOR SPEEDWAY

Through January 1, 2023

Texas Motor Speedway Annual Holiday Lighting Spectacular—The Gift of Lights features over 600 custom LED light displays. Light displays are situated around Texas Motor Speedway’s 1.5-mile oval and underneath the grandstand concourse. DETAILS: Open Sunday through Thursday from 6pm until 9pm and then Friday and Saturday from 6pm until 10pm through

January 1, 2023. Tickets start at $35 per car and will be available at the gate, but can also be purchased in advance online at: GiftofLightsTexas.com .....................................................

PRAIRIE LIGHTS LYNN CREEK PARK

Through December 31

Upon arriving at the entrance of Prairie Lights, you will be dazzled with 5 million lights set along 2 miles of path. Hundreds of fresh displays in shapes of all kinds line and arch over the roads. Half-way through the drive get out of your car for a stop at Holiday Village where you will find food, gifts, Santa, carnival and the Holiday Magic Lighted Walk-Through Forest. Concessions sold include hot cocoa, apple cider, coffee and a variety of seasonal food like funnel cakes and kettle corn. Once back in your vehicle, the second half of the drive ends with the very animated, new and improved light tunnel—the perfect finale to a night you will never forget!

DETAILS: Lynn Creek Park is located at 5610 Lake Ridge Parkway, Grand Prairie 75052. Open 6pm until 9pm daily until

December 31. VIP fast passes available until December 25. Visit: PrairieLights.org

NOON YEAR’S EVE HALTOM CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY

December 31

Have little ones that go to bed with the sun? This party is perfect for you. Instead of counting down till midnight, the Haltom City Library is counting down to noon. They’ll have crafts, snacks, party blowers and a super cool countdown. This program is great for all ages and registration for this event is requited and everyone (yes, even grownups) must be registered in order to attend. DETAILS: The Haltom City Public Library is located at 4809 Haltom Road in Haltom City. For more information, call 817-222-7786 or visit them online at: haltomcitytx.com

12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS AT NIGHT DALLAS ARBORETUM

Through December 30 Holiday at the Arboretum returns with a garden transformed for the magic of the

season including the return of the beloved Christmas Village, the 12 Days of Christmas and the Dazzling Musical Tree! You’re also invited to visit the historic DeGolyer House, this elaborately decorated by renowned designer Michael Hamilton, with a new exhibit, The Artistry of Faith & Culture, that celebrates the diversity of the holiday season in our city. This new seasonal exhibit is especially magical with the lights at night, but is open each day, as well, through December 30. It prominently features the three world holidays celebrated during the run of the festival: Christmas, Hannukah and Kwanzaa. DETAILS: Night-time admission is available Monday through Wednesday evening for $35 for adults and $11 for children 3-12, and free for children two and under. For more information, visit: dallasarboretum.org

DAY1DFW IRVING CONVENTION CENTER

January 1, 2023

In its eighth year of celebration, Day 1 DFW is an all-inclusive event, bringing families together on New Year’s Day.

Hosted by Vogel Alcove at The Irving Convention Center, guests get access to family-friendly, fun-filled activities and performances all day long. The event ends with a spectacular fireworks show. This year’s celebration will feature a rock climbing wall, STEM activities, silent disco, magic shows, crafts and games alongside great food. DETAILS: Doors open at 3pm. Fireworks start at 7pm. Children are free and adults are just $10. For tickets, please visit: vogelalcove.com

HOLIDAY IN THE PARK SIX FLAGS OVER TEXAS

Through January 1, 2023

From festive shows to extravagantly decorated Christmas trees, Santa’s Workshop and Ole Saint Nick himself, holiday fun is around every corner. The whole family can relish in the joy of this wonderful season with a ride on hill made of snow, time spent with Santa and Mrs. Claus and an opportunity to meet Rudolph and his reindeer friends. Walk through the Boomtown section of the park and see it come alive with more than 8 1/2 miles of lights, Texas

sized ornaments and a 70 foot tall dancing Christmas tree. It is the perfect spot for a family photo and will leave an impression on you as big as our great state! DETAILS: The Park will be open from noon to 7pm on both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. For more information, call (817) 6408900 or visit: SixFlags.com

NOON-YEAR’S EVE AND BALL DROP RORY MEYERS CHILDREN’S ADVENTURE GARDEN, DALLAS

December 31

Celebrate the new year at a kid-friendly time of your choice with fun and educational activities all day, from 9 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. The Ball Drop is at noon sharp, but arrive as early as 9 a.m. to make a 2023 Headband or Noise Maker to help you ring it in – in-style! Other events of the day include a tour of the solar system and a pop rockets demonstration. DETAILS: The Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden is located at 8525 Garland Road in Dallas. For tickets and more details please, visit: dallasarboretum.org

THE TRAINS AT NORTHPARK NORTHPARK CENTER

Through January 6, 2023

The Trains at NorthPark, presented by Bank of Texas and benefiting the Ronald McDonald House of Dallas, has been a NorthPark Center tradition for over 35 years. The most elaborate miniature toy trains exhibit in Texas, The Trains at NorthPark features trains rolling across 1,800 feet of track on a journey across America. Cityscapes include New York City’s Time Square and Grand Central Station, the Grand Canyon, Route 66, and of course, Dallas’ Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge, State Fair of Texas, Cotton Bowl, Perot Museum, Southern Methodist University and more. DETAILS: The Trains run New Year's Eve

from 10am to 4pm and New Year's Day from noon to 6pm. Tickets start at $10 for adults and $5 for children over 2 and seniors. Children under two are free. For more information, please visit them online at: thetrainsatnorthpark.com

ZOO YEAR’S EVE

FORT WORTH

December 31

ZOO

Looking for a way to have a pre-ball-drop date night? Enjoy a kid-free night out on the town while your children enjoy a night at the Zoo with a movie, crafts and a night hike through the park. Plus, they have the food covered for your little one with a continental breakfast for dinner! DETAILS: This event is open to kids aged 6 to 10. Admission is $85. For more information, please call 817-759-7555.

RESTAURANTS TO RING IN THE

NEW YEAR

MESERO

December 31 & January 1

Ring in the New Year in true Texas fashion with a margarita, chips and salsa. Mesero is beyond Tex Mex, but lives up to its promise of Mexican Spirit American Life. One taste of the iconic Queso Mesero, Brisket Tacos or Mexican Fried Rice and you becoming back for more. Be sure not to skip the amazing drink list, it's the best part. Can’t decide which frozen margarita flavor to try – get one of each layered together with the signature “Brandon” margarita. For NYE, the kitchen is open until 11pm with the bar staying open to count down all the way to midnight. For New Year’s Day, Mesero is open for brunch starting at 10am. From Churro Pancakes to French Toast to Chilaquiles, they have something for everyone to start the year off on the right foot—or at least with a happy belly. So many choices you can have something new each time. DETAILS: Located at 1471 E. Southlake Boulevard, Southlake. To make reservations, please call (817) 952-9705 or visit: mesero.net

JANE - SOUTHLAKE December 31

Join Jane for a New Year’s Eve bash Southlake-style beginning at 5pm. The party doesn’t stop until 1am with a complimentary champagne toast at midnight. Admission is free. There will be Scotch Flights, drink specials, your favorite bites and charcuterie served, plus a live DJ under their comfortable and cozy covered outdoor patio. DETAILS: Located at 1151 E. Southlake Blvd., 390, Southlake. Call (817) 424-JANE to reserve your spot.

CLASSIC CAFÉ AT ROANOKE

December 31

The Classic Cafe at Roanoke serves a world-class menu in a casual, relaxed cottage setting. The Classic will offer a special 3-course New Year’s Eve dinner with seatings from 4pm to 10pm. Cost is $85 per person plus tax and gratuity. Main course selections include an Asian-marinated, pan-seared salmon, grilled pork flat iron with an apple butter mole, a seared maple leaf breast of duck with a cherry garden rosemary sauce and much more.

DETAILS: Located at 504 N Oak Street, Roanoke, 76262. For information or to make reservations, call (817) 430-8185 or visit them online at: theclassiccafe.com

CHEF POINT

December 31

Chef Point is a modern bar and restaurant boasting an indulgent and ever changing internationally and seasonally inspired menu. With the maiden location inside a gas station in Watauga, one of Chef Franson’s proudest moments was when Guy Fieri came to visit and see about the fivestar food inside a convenient store. The rest was history and they were quickly bursting at the seams with crowds lined up for the decadent fare. A second larger location was opened in Colleyville. If it’s a historic New Year’s Eve dinner you’re looking for, this is the place. Chef Franson is offering a three-course prix fixe menu for $69 per person. Main course offerings include Basil and Feta Stuffed Chicken, a Stuffed New York Strip and Seabass, all accompanied with a side of truffled mashed potatoes. DETAILS: Located at 5220 TX-

121 in Colleyville and 5901 Watauga Road in Watauga. For reservations and more information, visit: chefpointcafe.org

MAC’S ON MAIN

December 31

Chef/Owner Rena Frost’s food ranges from the familiar to the unexpected with fresh seafood, steaks, prime rib and seasonally created specials. Mac’s proudly offers Chairman Reserve and Strauss Grass Fed steaks, slow-roasted prime rib and fresh fish selections. They partner with local purveyors and individuals enabling them to feature specials that are seasonal and most often locally sourced from our surrounding area. Enjoy a wide selection of drinks at Mac’s bar—featuring classic cocktails, specialty cocktails, over 25 single malt scotches and an extensive bourbon list. Their wine list consists of bottles primarily from North and South America with over ten wines available by the glass. DETAILS: Located at 909 S. Main St. #110, Grapevine. To make reservations, call (817) 251-6227 or visit: macsteak.com

KIRBY’S PRIME STEAK & SEAFOOD December 31

End 2022 on the best note with a delicious dining experience at Kirby’s Steakhouse in Southlake. Reservations are now open for New Year’s Eve at the best upscale steakhouse in DFW. Their culinary team has created a delicious four course set menu priced at $99 per person excluding tax & gratuity, with additional exciting food and beverage pairings to help ring in 2023 the right way! We hope you join us for a luxurious NYE dining experience in Southlake complete with party favors and a midnight countdown with a complimentary champagne toast! Come dressed to impress with your celebratory spirit in tow! DETAILS: Reservations, visit: kirbyssteakhouse.com

THE JOURNEY TO WELLNESS

It’s resolution season and the perfect time to rejuvenate for the new year ahead of us. Wellness is a journey that changes as we grow and mature — so those resolutions we make (or ignore) change too. In our individual pursuit of our best self, we reflect on past choices good and bad, behaviors and lifestyle. Wellness is an active process of being aware and making decisions that lead toward an outcome of optimal holistic health and well-being. Resolve now to be well and rejuvenate!

RESOLUTIONS AND REJUVENATION

[continued on next page]

Resolutions&Rejuvenation

Meet Owner

DR. LIZ GRAVES WEIGHT LOSS EXPERT

most gratifying part of my job is helping people feel good in their own skin. I love empowering people to know how to eat for their best health.”

— Liz Graves, D.C.

Kim was a serial dieter who yoyo’d for years, her old tricks stopped working so she contacted Back 2 Real Food. In just 2 months, she was down 20lbs and 2 full clothing sizes. She has found the weight loss has been easy to maintain.

BEFORE AFTER

Dr. Liz has a passion for helping people heal their metabolism and keep weight off because she struggled for years. When she talks about working smarter (fixing metabolism) instead of working harder (diet and exercise), she speaks from personal experience with an empathetic heart. She was doing everything right with diet and exercise only to yo-yo for years never reaching her goal. She saw others in her practice having the same struggle, and that’s how Back 2 Real Food came to fruition. Her process has helped thousands in our community by targeting and teaching how to heal and sustain a healthy metabolism.

Tracy had a full health transformation. As a Type 1 diabetic she thought she was destined for high doses of insulin. Her “after” results include a 60lb weight loss, 75% less insulin, and a normal A1C. She’s also wearing a size 6 for the first time since high school.

Anna lost over 75lbs and 4 clothing sizes. She reversed her type 2 diabetes, she breaths better, and sleeps better. The best part is that she’s been able to keep the weight off for over 4 years now and she loves her healthy lifestyle.

BEFORE AFTER

BEFORE AFTER

“The

BACK 2

When we asked Dr. Liz Graves what motivates her to help others live their best life, the owner of Back 2 Real Food stressed that she believes it’s her soul’s purpose to empower others in health. “I get great joy from helping others take charge of their health by holistics means.” By strategically targeting your metabolism — rather than surrendering to extreme diets or over-exercising, she knows her clients will not only get guaranteed results, they will get better results in less time!

WELLNESS & WEIGHT LOSS While exercise and good nutrition are important to your health, it may not be the best answer for your weight loss goals. At Back 2 Real Food, they specialize in creating customized weight loss plans to get to the true cause of most weight problems which is metabolism. If you have a slow metabolism it can be hard to lose weight, even if you eat and exercise perfectly.  If you’re unsure if you have a fast or slow metabolism, this will be discussed during your initial consultation to help shed light if this is the real problem. Back 2 Real Food offers a no-pressure consultation. “We want weight loss to be a partnership and something that can be sustainable and long-lasting. The first visit is about finding out if we are the right fit for you and if you will get results with our approach. We are heavy on education and empowering our clients—we want people who want to be proactive in their health,” admits Dr. Liz. Her best advice for success on your journey to wellness is to be mindful of what you let into your mind and what you put into your mouth. Harmful items can be both mental or physical and can greatly impact your body’s ability to heal. Whether its the last 10 lbs or the first 100 lbs you want help losing, Back 2 Real Food is the perfect place for you to get answers and see results.

Leanne is a powerhouse, she killed it on the weight loss, losing 31lbs in just 2 months. She proved that you can lose weight even with a busy schedule, with Back 2 Real Food she was able to lose the weight while taking 3 major trips (2 international).

Patience lost over 25lbs in the first 2 months and went on to lose over 120lbs. She went from a size 22 to a size 8 which shocked her since she was a size 14 entering high school. Her weight loss has given her a new confidence to pursue other goals in her life.

BEFORE AFTER

BEFORE AFTER

BACK 2 REAL FOOD

Q&A with Dr. Liz Graves

Q: Any 2023 resolutions? A: I’m planning on more education in the new year to help answer tough questions on health and metabolism

Q: How do you rejuvenate? A: Movement and bodywork. I love doing things like hiking, paddleboarding, boating, wakeboarding, and yoga. I also love recovery from those things with massages and spa treatments.

Q: Name one healthy living ritual you can’t live without. A: Reading labels. What we put into our body or on our bodies has a lot to do with our level of health. I avoid things that cause metabolic or hormonal disruptions.

BACK 2 REAL FOOD

1323 W. Northwest Hwy., Ste 300  Grapevine, Texas 76051 newclients.b2rf@gmail.com Back2RealFood.com 817.400.0575

Resolutions&Rejuvenation

Meet our Team

“The most gratifying part of my job is seeing first hand the positive impact vitamin infusions can have — it’s exciting to be a part of helping others feel better.”

— Kim Daugherty

We put ourselves to the test each day, whether it’s through playing sports, working out, having one too many drinks, or just not drinking enough water. What better way to say “thank you” than by giving ourselves the vitamins and nutrients our bodies desire. As director of Destiny Drip Bar, Kim Daugherty knows that drip infusions are a perfect way to give back to your body, mind and soul. Whether you get a drip a few times a week or once a month, you will be happy you did. Sometimes we just need something a little extra! A drip can be just the thing to get the pep back in your step and feeling great again.

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT Destiny Drip Bar provides their clientele with a holistic approach to their health and wellness. According to a recent study, 92% of the population suffers from at least one mineral or vitamin deficiency based on their normal dietary intake shortcomings. Destiny Drip Bar clients can expect to relax and be pampered in a spa-like environment. Most drips will infuse within 30-40 minutes. You can listen to soothing music and receive a warm neck wrap, plus complimentary tea or champagne while you receive your vitamin infusion. And don’t worry if you’re not a fan of needles! A tiny needle is used to provide an initial skin prick and then the needle is immediately retracted and discarded. Most people say they don’t feel anything! The benefits far outweigh any fears. By providing your body with adequate vitamins and minerals, your body will then be able to function at a much higher level, restoring energy and even help you avoid illness. Getting your vitamins to their appropriate level will ensure a healthier, happier lifestyle.

KIM DAUGHERTY (standing)

(seated l-r) TRACEY BREADNER, RN LORI ANDREWS, RN NAYELLI ARRIAGA, RN

DESTINY DRIP BAR

WELLNESS VITAMIN INFUSIONS AND INJECTIONS — A SELF-CARE REGIMEN TO FEEL YOUR VERY BEST

Kim Daugherty loves for people to feel their best, feel stronger and have more energy. As director of Destiny Drip Bar, she’s passionate about wellness and the positive reactions of her clients after they try vitamin infusions for the first time. The most common effects they report following a drip is better sleep, improved and sustained energy, as well as improvement in their skin. Replenish, restore, relax, repeat!

IV INFUSION THERAPY When we take vitamins, minerals and other nutrients orally, they are metabolized by your liver and go through your digestive system to be absorbed. Many nutrients from food and pill supplements are less effective due to your unique absorption rates, their age and quality. This keeps you from getting the full benefits. Liquid extracts can be better, but there’s still inefficient absorption in your digestive system. IV therapy allows helpful vitamins to go directly into your blood stream—where you can take in virtually all of what is administered. It goes directly to where it can help you the most. IV therapy has been embraced as a fast and effective way to aid in improving energy, replenishing depleted stores of nutrients, helping us heal, and flushing out toxins.

IV vitamin infusion therapy is not a new treatment. Dr. John Myers, a physician from Baltimore, Maryland started the use of IV vitamins and minerals in the 1960s to treat his patients. This vitamin IV is commonly referred to as the “Myer’s Cocktail.” This treatment remained popular among his patients and continues to this day. Destiny Drip Bar offers their version of a “Myer’s Cocktail” in the Zynergy Drip. They offer a vast menu of drips—from high dose Vitamin C to hydration, and cleansing or endurance. There’s always a drip right for you!

TESTIMONIALS “Fantastic experience! I was dealing with some sluggish moods lately, just really didn’t feel like doing much. I went in and got a vitamin drip with a booster and I feel so much better. I was able to get right back into my daily routine and get so much done. Also, my sleep schedule has improved so much! These ladies are awesome. Highly recommend.” — AARON R.

“I feel amazing after my drips! Tracey is a pro and does an amazing job of making you comfortable during the infusion. I went the first time after a Vegas trip and I was feeling better within a few hours. I returned and felt more energized, so I will continue getting them regularly. The facility is so relaxing and they make these energy bites that are worth going in for themselves. I am new to the area but definitely will be trying out more of their services. ” — KIM W.

Q&A with Kim Daugherty

Q: Any 2023 resolutions?

A: I love the new year and thinking about new goals. This year, I plan to add weight lifting into my weekly workout regime. I am 55 years old and it is time to start thinking about aging well.

Q: How do you rejuvenate? A: My favorite way to rejuvenate and get some exercise is to go on walks with my friends or husband in our neighborhood. I’ve lived in the same house for 20 years and I’m amazed how I always find something beautiful I haven’t noticed before on the same streets right where I live.

Q: Name one healthy living ritual you can’t live without. A: Green tea in the afternoon.

Q: Define beauty. A: Anyone energetic, kind and positive.

DESTINY DRIP BAR

1251 E. Southlake Blvd., Ste. 305 Southlake, Texas 76092 DestinyDripBar.com 682.270.3942

Resolutions&Rejuvenation

Meet Owner

“The most gratifying part of my job is seeing people taking care of themselves. It’s all about helping them achieve their health and fitness goals.”

— Kim Itzla

Kim Itzla, owner of Impact Performance and Fitness, knows members come in with different goals. For some, it’s just to walk through the door and do something to take care of themselves. For others, they have specific goals they’re working towards achieving whether it be gaining muscle, running further, improving health or losing weight. Impact is designed to accommodate all levels of fitness. The positive atmosphere helps you reach goals and create rewarding relationships. From the avid athlete who wants peak off-season conditioning to the professional who wants to look and feel better, this is the gym for you.

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT Your health is a priority, and Impact Performance and Fitness is dedicated to delivering a healthy way of life to the community. It can be hard to take the first step, but once you do, their team will help you stay on track! Impact Performance and Fitness is all-inclusive, women-owned and welcoming to any fitness level. Anyone interested in learning more can come in for a tour of the gym and the opportunity to have any of your questions answered. After that, you are free to use the facilities. If you are interested in working out with a personal trainer, they will ask what your goals are and based on those answers, they will pair you with a trainer that is a good fit for you. Impact’s cleaning protocol is also top-notch and their AIRPHX system prevents COVID and any other viruses from living in the gym. You won’t find a cleaner gym in town! Kim invites you to come check out her full service gym and become part of their family, too. Impact’s supportive team will help you accomplish your fitness goals and keep you motivated to push your limits.

KIM ITZLA

IMPACT PERFORMANCE

IMPACT PERFORMANCE AND FITNESS IS A FULL SERVICE GYM IN SOUTHLAKE WITH A BOUTIQUE FEEL

Learning to live your best life is something Kim Itzla had to do herself years ago and she says it stuck! “I’d put on weight and decided to do something about it. I went to a local gym and that got me started. A few years later, that gym closed and Impact was founded so I moved. Here, I learned how to take care of myself and fell in love with working out and being healthy!” Today she’s the owner of Impact Performance, a full service boutique gym with highly certified personal trainers. Clients can workout on their own or a personal trainer can create a personalized program based on goals, expectations and challenges. This is the perfect place to start or continue your fitness journey. They’re always excited to welcome every new member to their fitness family!

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO SUCCEED Whether you’re just getting started on this journey or you want to improve your training techniques, Impact Performance and Fitness is here for you! Impact has been welcoming members since 2012 and they offer FreeMotion machines to train every part of the body. They have Coach treadmills and bikes, sleds, ellipticals, strength equipment, and more. They’ll even show you how to use every machine and there’s a certified massage therapist onsite. If you don’t like working out on your own and need additional motivation, join a small group training session or kickstart your fitness journey with a personal trainer. Every person takes a different route to accomplish fitness goals and maintain them. Impact is here to provide all of the tools you need to succeed.

TESTIMONIALS “I have been a member at Impact Performance and Fitness since it opened. I have been at many different clubs but never have I found the professionalism and the knowledge that this club displays on a daily basis. If you’re thinking about a new gym I strongly recommend Impact Performance and Fitness! — CAPTAIN ROB H.

The facilities are world-class and offer opportunities for any athlete or person pursuing their own excellence. The culture embraces injury prevention and growth of athletes and active adults. Impact is a place where friendships are formed and has a culture of comradery that is personal and long lasting. Impact has the most experienced and well educated trainers that design programs for anyone from the top level athlete to people my age that need tweaks in their programs to see significant gains. The Impact family is always so welcoming and it is the greatest place to work out!” — TOM H.

Q&A with Kim Itzla

Q: Any 2023 resolutions?

A: I need to get better at delegating some of the items that I currently handle that others are more than capable of doing, so I can spend more time in the community making a difference.

Q: Best advice to live healthy. A: Take care of your brain and your body. Spend time with family and friends, read and take time for yourself. Move your body every day. Make sure you drink plenty of water and get enough sleep.

Q: Name one healthy living ritual you can’t live without. A: Other than working out, I would say getting adjusted by my chiropractor and getting regular massages. It’s one of the things that many people ignore and it makes a big difference in your recovery.

IMPACT PERFORMANCE

525 S. Nolen Drive, Suite 100 Southlake, Texas 76092

ImpactPerformanceSL.com 817.416.3838

Resolutions&Rejuvenation

Meet our Docs

“The most gratifying part of our job is taking patients who are sick and tired, and helping them lower or remove their need for medication and truly live their best life.”

— Dr. Lopez and Dr. Jones

Life's Medicine was born in 2012 out of a genuine passion for helping people. Dr. Isabel Lopez and Dr. Natashia Takayasu Jones are board certified physicians who’ve focused their medical careers on common endocrine and metabolic conditions including weight management. They begin the process of optimizing patient health and well-being by personalizing their approach to the patient’s goals. They focus on balancing and optimizing all hormones, teaching patients how to eat and improving their lifestyle habits. They genuinely want patients to be able to look and feel their best — living life to its fullest potential!

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT Life's Medicine is not contracted with insurance companies. This allows the freedom to treat patients with a holistic, integrated, functional approach— basing decisions not solely on lab results, numbers and formularies but on a myriad of factors. At the core of this is how the patient actually feels and what is causing them to feel unwell. Life’s Medicine focus on the “why.” Why is the patient not feeling well and what is the cause? They get to the root of the problem. Conventional medicine teaches how to match a drug to a symptom. Life’s Medicine wants to know why you have the symptom. All new patients require a very comprehensive panel of blood—lipid particle numbers, cardiac inflammatory bio-markers, vitamin deficiencies, extensive thyroid and hormone panel—and an EKG prior to being scheduled. Once they have these results, Life’s Medicine schedules your first consultation. The doctors review your labs and then formulate a systematic plan that helps them to cultivate each patient’s best life!

DR. ISABEL LOPEZ (right) DR. NATASHIA JONES (left)

LIFE’S

MEDICINE

THE MISSION OF LIFE’S MEDICINE IS TO HELP THEIR PATIENTS LIVE LIFE TO ITS FULLEST POTENTIAL

For the doctors at Life’s Medicine, improving quality of life for their patients is their passion. Dr. Isabel Lopez and Dr. Natashia Jones customize each individual’s journey by taking into consideration the potential helpers and hindrances of one’s current health — genetic, environmental or hormonal. They’ve both made the change from the traditional medical model to the Life’s Medicine approach after years of experiencing frustrations and limitations while delivering effective care to their patients. They truly want them to live their best lives now!

LIVING YOUR BEST LIFE Life's Medicine is a highly attentive medical practice that focuses on making you better. Whether addressing high blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid issues, fatigue, insomnia, weight or athletic performance issues—each patient gets the attention they need and deserve. The practice offers a vast menu of services including, but not limited to—physician supervised weight loss programs, cryotherapy, infrared sauna, bio-identical hormones, slim and energy shots, athletic biomarker panel, Power Plate, NormaTec Recovery, and supplement services. From the moment patients walk in the door, they feel they have come to the right place. Dr. Jones and Dr. Lopez agree that seeing so many patients on way too many medications was probably the ‘Aha’ moment that catapulted them into wellness.”We were sick and tired of patients being sick and tired! That’s why we begin the process by optimizing overall health and well-being. We do this by personalizing our approach to the patient’s specific goals. We focus on balancing and optimizing all of their hormones, teaching our patients how to eat and improving lifestyle habits. We want them to look and feel their very best!”

TESTIMONIALS “She spent so much time wanting to know about me—not just my medical concerns, but all about me. In fact, I started feeling guilty that I was taking up too much of her time and keeping her away from her other patients.” — JANAY

“She looks at the whole thing—spiritual, emotional, physical—and doesn't make you feel like you don’t understand.” — TERRIE

Q&A with Dr. Lopez & Dr. Jones

Q: Any 2023 resolutions?

LOPEZ: Exclude no one and be kind to everyone. Live life as though I have the heart of Jesus. Kindness always wins.

Q: Tell readers something we might not know about your practive. LOPEZ: When someone in our clinic’s waiting for news or results, we light a candle and say a little prayer.

Q: Any 2023 resolutions? JONES: Pray always and often. I believe in the power of a praying mama, woman and physician.

Q: Name one healthy living ritual you can’t live without. JONES: I can’t live without hot yoga and then eating a Brussel sprouts salad. I love to sweat, stretch and eat!

LIFE’S MEDICINE

“Dr. Lopez is fabulous with a wonderful staff. She truly is helping me live my best life. The group understands my scheduling issues and work around my busy life. Love everyone there—don't miss out!”

— JENNIFER

“Great doctors. Great staff. I Cryo every day at LM. I look forward to my daily freeze.” — TIM

700 E. Southlake Blvd., Suite 130 Southlake, Texas 76092 LifesMedicine.com 817.328.0331

Resolutions&Rejuvenation

Meet Owners

“The most gratifying part of my job is helping people. Our team is passionate about being servant-led and showing compassion to every client we support.”

— Rachelle Limosnero

As an expert in the health and fitness industry for over 30 years, Rachelle Limosnero was so excited to learn about OsteoStrong. With its world-class science and technology, she knew she had to bring this remarkable system to her community. Driven by a desire to serve, it’s her hope that every client can grow stronger, realize they aren’t too old or young to start taking care of their bodies, and that they’re worthy of the time it takes to invest in their health. For Rachelle and her team this is about more than just bone health — it’s a realization that clients can transform not only their overall health, but also body and mind.

WHAT

YOU CAN EXPECT

Your first visit starts with a complimentary assessment. “During this time, your certified coach will give you a personal tour of the facility, review your health goals, and set up your personalized program so we can start tracking your progress from Day 1. You will receive a personalized performance report immediately after each session to review your improvements in each area,” Rachelle explained. “We aim to heal and positively impact the lifestyle of every client through our safe, sciencebased system. It is fun and safe for all ages. The result is a more resilient body and a more confident you!” OsteoStrong’s recovery modalities such as BioCharger, JOOVV Red Light Therapy, NormaTec Compression, and PEMF mats promote healing and optimization on every level—from cellular to physical. Sessions are quick, painless, and results are measurable and happen quickly. OsteoStrong’s team of experts will help you break the limits of what age and injury may be trying to impose on you.

RACHELLE LIMOSNERO (left) CYNTHIA GASTON (right)

OSTEOSTRONG

COLLEYVILLE EAST

OsteoStrong® is not a gym, diet, supplement, medication or medical treatment. It is a unique place where you can improve overall health by focusing on the one thing we have in common — a skeletal system. This is the body’s foundation and provides more than just strength and protection. It is one of the most critical systems of the human body. By implementing a strategy to care for and strengthen it, you can improve your bone density, posture, balance, athletic performance and with less joint and back pain. Surprisingly, all of this can easily be accomplished in less than 10 minutes per week. No pain... all gain!

THE ULTIMATE BIOHACK OsteoStrong’s cutting-edge modalities are specifically focused on building strength, boosting immunity, overall vitality and well-being. The focus is on ‘Osteogenic Loading’ using proprietary technology to strengthen bones, joints and muscles. Weekly conditioning results in a stimulus to the central nervous system that triggers osteogenesis (new bone growth) that works to increase bone density and for many, even reduces joint and back pain. Unlike other health solutions, you don’t have to spend hours at a gym or exert physical energy that will leave you feeling tired by the time you’re done. Just show up as you are and they’ll handle the rest! OsteoStrong is sweat-free, fast (less than 10 minutes), painless, will not leave you feeling fatigued and will not leave you feeling sore the next day. Plus it’s only once per week! OsteoStrong works for people at all ages and levels of activity to promote skeletal strength. If this sounds good to you, come in for a free session to experience OsteoStrong for yourself!

TESTIMONIALS “I’ve been going to OsteoStrong for over 6 months now and I am so glad I started. Being in my 40s, and having a few health scares this last year, I wanted to be more proactive in taking care of my bone health and overall wellness. What I did not anticipate was how enjoyable each session would feel. Even with a busy work schedule, I look forward to my weekly session. The session coaches are so knowledgeable and educate me every visit on the benefits of all the different modalities.” — SANDHYA K.

“My time at OsteoStrong is the absolute best. They encourage me to work to become stronger each time I visit, but to always stay within safe limits for my body. Although I have had some health issues that have caused a few setbacks, I am much stronger than I was when I first started. OsteoStrong really works! It is a must for anyone, but especially for those of us with aging bodies.” — KELLY D.

Q&A with Rachelle Limosnero

Q: Any 2023 resolutions? A: My goal in 2023 is to share more health resources and connect deeper with those in my network. Our health is determined by our choices and I believe we all deserve to and have the power to take our health into our own hands.

Q: Name one healthy living ritual you can’t live without. A: I can’t live without working out or moving my body daily. Mastering my health means I become the master of my body and mind. Movement is the key! It is a must to help with my energy levels, and mental clarity. Moving my body is a catalyst for kickstarting my day! OSTEOSTRONG COLLEYVILLE EAST

707 Glade Road

Colleyville, Texas 76034

OsteoStrong.me 817.751.7588

10 must-try experiences

The holiday break is here and that means time off and fun to be had! Learn something new, try a new hobby, master a new skill, get out and experience fun in a whole new way.

#1 Go Sledding

Snow Day Hooray! From an ultrafast snow tube to a sleek saucer to a classic wooden pull sled, nothing beats a snow day. We know that we don’t get much snow here in North Texas, but when we do get out there with the kids (and kid at heart) and play! Until that day comes, there are fun places like the Gaylord Texan (our #10 on this list) that have indoor snow tubing. Grab the kids and have a blast with them just slipping and sliding down that snowy hill. You might just feel like a kid again.

#2 Build Something

Do You Wanna Build a Snowman? Building something... anything builds self esteem and confidence. Working together as a team of family or a group of friends is a great way to reconnect. It doesn’t have to be a snowman!

Try building a fort, a wooden pull toy, a rocket, a domino course or marble run, a bench or even getting out the Legos and seeing who can build the tallest tower. The point is to be in the moment and build together.

#4

LOOK Dine-In Cinema Colleyville

The LOOK Experience This is tech-forward elevated entertainment that’s at your service! Enjoy a premium movie-watching experience— laser projection, large screens, state-of-the-art sound and luxury seating. LOOK + Dine mobile technology gives guests control over their food and beverage ordering. They choose their items, customize their orders and pay all from their phone. Whether you choose a signature item from their chef-inspired menu, a craft cocktail or traditional movie-favs, LOOK’s great-tasting dining options help maximize your entertainment experience. They don’t make it until you order it, so enjoy your bites hot and fresh. It’s showtime! lookcinemas.com

#3 FYE Trade Night

Hey Sports Collectors! FYE knows about the grading process and they understand that it can be a daunting one—whether you’re a novice collector or an experienced hobbyist. Every Saturday evening starting at 6pm, collectors and sports memorabilia enthusiasts gather for Trade Night at FYE Sports Cards of Colleyville. Trade Night has live breaks, slabs, wax, raw and pack wars. It’s a mixture of adults and children that gather to watch sports, eat pizza, spin the prize wheel, and trade sports cards. They even offer birthday and team parties here. At FYE, they know that the best part about this hobby is the community, and that’s exactly what they hope to bring together!

fyesportscards.com

#5 Escape!

Come In Then Get Out Family-friendly escape rooms are exciting entertainment experiences for everyone! Escape rooms introduce players into themed situations where the goal is the same—solve challenges in record time to win the game before time runs out. Teamwork means success, and individual contribution is paramount. These escape rooms are detailed, unique creations, and we know you will love the adventure!

thegrapevineescape.com

#6 Painting with a Twist

Paint and Drink! Fun! Plain and simple. No creative or artistic skills are needed. Painting with a Twist is all about connecting with friends over a glass of wine, your favorite snacks and a night of laughs. Get the gang together. There’s always something fun happening at Painting with a Twist. You just pick the painting and invite the guests. We provide everything you need and clean up the mess! Oh, and you’ll also learn how to paint!

paintingwithatwist.com/studio/grapevine

#7 LUX Beauty Bar

Hello Gorgeous! This is a modern twist on classic beauty rituals! Beauty services as unique as you are. The Lux Skin Lab + Beauty Bar is Colleyville's only open-concept beauty bar. They make it easy for you to achieve and maintain healthy, beautiful skin, lashes and brows. Lux is the only open-concept results-driven modern beauty bar experience with a relaxing yet upbeat vibe in the DFW area. Helping you achieve your beauty goals is their passion. Achieving a healthy sunless glow on your skin is their priority. Perfect brows and enhancing lashes are things they strive for when you visit the beauty bar. You need to experience the beauty bar for yourself—go glow! luxskinlab.com

#8 PetBar

Upscale Pet Spa and Boutique Okay, this experience has gone to the dogs (literally)! The PetBar has two locations here locally—Colleyville and Trophy Club and it’s going to become yours and their favorite place. From self-service wash and supplies to pet taxis and monthly memberships, your pampered pooch is going to love you for bringing them here. The PetBar exists to keep your dog clean and happy. If you’d rather someone else do the work they also offer full service grooming. Who’s a good dog?

petbarinc.com

#9

ATA Martial Arts

Maximize Your Potential ATA is dedicated to changing the lives of people one person at a time, through martial arts, education and coaching. They strive to provide a safe, comfortable and welcoming atmosphere for all students and family members—and take pride in creating an environment for individuals to achieve, develop and succeed in their personal goals. They strongly believe that martial arts can be for everyone, regardless of age, gender or experience levels. Students learn the skills necessary to protect themselves, as well as to enable every member to achieve greatness and live their best life.

atacolleyville.com

#10

gaylord texan lone star christmas

So. Much. Christmas. Everything is bigger in Texas and that undoubtedly includes Gaylord Texan. Standing on the shores of Lake Grapevine with 4.5 acres of indoor gardens, 10 restaurants, a seasonal resort pool and indoor lap pool, this is a hotel that could only make its home in The Lone Star State. This hotel in Grapevine has beautiful atriums and fun activities for the whole family—including their amazing ICE! The Polar Express exhibit and the millions of sparking lights that decorate the indoor atrium that’s always the perfect weather no matter what’s happening outside! From snow tubing to gingerbread decorating the Gaylord has Christmas fun covered. christmasatgaylordtexan.com

WANDERLUST TRAVEL

texas travel and beyond

20+ HOLIDAY BARS AND RESTAURANTS

TO VISIT IN DALLAS

The holiday season is upon us which means… holiday cocktails. Dallas knows how to go all out with what feels like hundreds of things to do for the holidays! And even the restaurants have gotten involved. Deck the halls with all of these amazing Holiday Bars and Restaurants to visit!

Leela’s Wine Bar on Lower Greenville is covered in ornaments and Christmas deco. They even have a fun Christmas drink menu such as a spiked apple cider called a “Whobe Whatty” and a “Figgy Pudding” cocktail that tastes like Christmas in your mouth!

Campo Verde – Arlington may be a drive, but the festive decor makes it worth it! Christmas tinsel, decorations, and thousands of lights practically cover every inch of the restaurant. It is worth noting, while the food was just okay, grabbing a drink at the bar is always a good option.

St. Henry’s Winter Wonderland revamped their restaurant and cocktail bar to fit the theme of Holiday cheer and will be serving boozy cocktails and appetizers this season, like “Nog on the Rooftop” to a “Fig & Ginger Mule.” There’s an option for everyone to indulge in! Be sure to make a reservation online.

Holiday Tea at the Adolphus includes a 2-course holidaythemed afternoon tea with scones, pastries, and little sandwiches. Tea sandwiches include recipes from Queen Elizabeth herself! It’s definitely something you don’t want to miss as this sells out quick!

Adolphus Winter Village – After enjoying a fancy tea, you can head upstairs to the Winter Village where you’ll find ornaments floating in the pool as well as heated winter cabins for enjoying food and cocktails.

Hotel Vin – In Grapevine, Hotel Vin has holiday igloos you can dine in. Even better, these igloos stay up until February 14 so this is something you could do to extend that holiday spirit! There are several different dining options starting at $150 for a group of people.

Harvest Hall – The Holly Jolly Bar is surrounded by a multitude of restaurants and just a short walk away from the Hotel Vin! Enjoy all of the drinks as well as a long calendar of special events.

The Hide Bar – Envision Santa on a beach in Hawaii. That’s what the Hide Bar Holiday theme is for this limited-time event! Their heated rooftop will host a holiday pop-up filled with boozy cocktails, beachy themes, and lots of fun. A few of their cocktails include Holiday on Ice, Island of Misfit Toys, and Top Shelf Elf.

Miracle at Royal 38 – A sister brand to Hide Bar, Miracle at Royal 38 is another festive pop-up cocktail bar in Dallas that is decorated to the nines with lights, Christmas trees, and more. The cocktails served will all be Christmas-themed, so grab a drink while you take in all the holiday cheer! A few drink items include Santa’s Little Helper, Elfing Around, and Snowball Old-Fashioned.

Paradiso in Bishop Arts is decked out in the classiest decor this holiday season. Whether you’re dropping by for brunch or dinner, the neutral glow from their white Christmas lights will be the perfect addition to your commemorative photos.

The Tipsy Elf is a holiday cocktail bar pop-up at Paradiso that is ready to party all night long this holiday season! There will be drag shows, cocktails, and other festivities to partake in. If you’re looking for a wild night with some friends or want to meet some new people, this Christmas event is for you!

Sixty Vines (Uptown) – Dine in a temperature controlled, outdoor igloo equipped with a Bluetooth speaker and room for up

to six people. Sixty Vines will serve you their sustainable wine on tap and tasty eats. Keep in mind there is a $200 food and beverage minimum.

Yellow Rosa – A lively Mexican Restaurant right tucked away in Deep Ellum. Guests will be able to enjoy fun and festive Christmas cocktails, photobooth, and even snowfall every 30 minutes, plus yummy eats! Visit their website to make a reservation.

Las Almas Rotas – Celebrate Feliz Navidad with red and green metallic papel picado, tacos, and a huge list of tequilas and mezcals!

Catbird Dallas – One of the restaurants located at the Thompson Dallas, Catbird is known for showing out year-round. Walking through the entrance, you’ll go under a ceiling of greenery and large ornaments before enjoying a delicious meal under the lights.

Hudson House – Dine under thousands of ornaments! You can grab dinner or drinks, but you’ll definitely be feeling the Christmas cheer here!

Aussie Grind – Celebrate Christmas with a holiday twist in Frisco at the Aussie Grind where your cocktail might even come with a little koala!

Atlas – Missing spooky season and need to transition yourself slowly into the holiday season? Atlas’ is a moody, library speakeasy that has been turned into a Nightmare Before Christmas themed pop-up featuring a guest bartender and holiday decor.

Krampus Christmas – For a darker take on the holidays, head over to BlackBird Society, a speakeasy in Neon Kitten for special drinks!

Toller Patio – Although we’re starting to have some chilly days, that doesn’t mean drinks on the patio has to be out of the question. Toller Patio has heaters and firepits to keep you warm so you can enjoy their inflated Christmas characters and their notorious 14-foot palm trees decked out in neon lights. Your pets are welcome, too!

Texas Live! at Miller Tavern – Decked out in Christmas trees of all sizes and colors, tinsel, string lights, and servers in all kinds of costumes, Miller Tavern will be hosting a special holiday pop-up with themed cocktails and a variety of events, including holiday movie nights, holiday karaoke, a gingerbread competition, and holiday trivia! Walk-ins are welcome, but it is recommended you make reservations to shorten your wait time.

Nickel City – This Fort Worth bar, with presents suspended from the ceiling, holiday lights setting the mood, Santa hat seat covers, and gift-wrapped tables, has turned into Miracle, a Christmas popup, serving up some specialty Christmas cocktails until December 30, 2022. Kids are also welcome here until 7pm with adult supervision.

Winterproof at the Statler Hotel –Reserve a rooftop snow globe (options for 4 to 8 people) or a table inside the rooftop lounge this holiday season for your best holiday party yet! Includes food and beverage service with a specialty Christmas cocktail menu available.

Harpers Steakhouse - Enjoy a nice dinner decked out for the holidays with greenery hanging from above and large Christmas ornaments to set the mood.

Single Wide – Modeled after the charm of a double wide trailer, this intimate dive is decorated with Christmas lights yearround because, why take them down? We keep them lights on all year-long in these parts!

Fiction Coffee – You’ll feel right at home, even if you’re in need of a change of scenery this holiday season. Fiction Coffee (the location housed on the first floor of the Continental Gin Building in Deep Ellum) has everything from wrapped gifts under multiple Christmas trees, and cute, framed wrapping paper and bows to festive mugs and holiday drinks for you to enjoy. Be sure to pay Fiction Coffee’s “Deck the Hall Street” holiday pop-up a visit while you still can!

Encina – This beloved restaurant in Bishop Arts will be hosting a Christmas Eve brunch, Christmas Eve dinner, and Christmas brunch. Indulge in pancakes and mimosas or a rich, delicate array of dishes you might encounter at Christmas dinner at home, without feeling pressured to stay and clear the table. Making a reservation online or over the phone is strongly recommended.

Bangkok at Beltline – Was hoping to get a seat for holiday tea at the Adolphus hotel this holiday season, but you were unsuccessful? Or maybe downtown Dallas is a bit too much of a drive? Bangkok at Beltline in Richardson is also hosting a Holiday High Tea with a triple tier dish full of sweet and savory goodies and different teas with each course. You can reserve your spot over the phone. Holiday High Tea will take place here on Saturdays from 1pm to 4pm.

Momilies

INTERVIEW BY SHANNON STEWART SALINSKY PHOTOS BY LORRAINE HAAN-STEWART

Want to be featured with your kids? Simply email your contact info to the editor at: elena@societylifemagazine.com. Then you will answer 20 questions and we will take professional photos of you and your kids (we will even give you some!)

because

I said so

In this issue of Society Life’s Mom’s column, we asked pharmacy technician SunNi Kirby Swan to answer 20 questions about her experiences both in becoming and being a mom. SunNi has one child: Kamilla, 7-years-old. She lives with her husband, Craig and their daughter in Fort Worth. Here’s what she had to say…

SOCIETY LIFE: What’s one of your earliest memories you have of your Mom? SunNi Kirby Swan: My earliest memory of my mother was seeing her pregnant with my younger sister, I thought she was big as a house.

SL: What is something you thought about Motherhood that was totally wrong? SKS: I thought I would love being pregnant, but I didn’t. I had terrible nausea that made it hard to have the warm fuzzies about the miracle I was creating. I love my daughter dearly and she was worth it but at the time, I’ll be honest, I was not having fun.

SL: What’s something you always wanted to do but didn’t... and why didn’t you? SKS: I have always loved the piano and always wanted to learn how to play, I have no idea why I’ve never taken lessons, but that may be on my list of goals to accomplish in the upcoming year.

SL: Was there something your Mom did when you were a kid that you swore you’d never do as a parent?

SKS: I swore I’d never raise my voice at my children, That always felt like the meanest thing to me, as a kid. Now that I’m a mother, I totally get how you can lose it a time or two. I try to speak calmly to my daughter even when I’m upset.

SL: What did you think you wanted to be when you grew up? SKS: I wanted to be a choreographer and a jazz musician.

SL: How have your notions of what it means to be a Mom changed over your lifetime? SKS: I always thought TV moms were the “Mom goal,” cooking, baking, attending every extracurricular activity without breaking a sweat. Realistically, I’ve come to realize that just being present in my daughter’s life is enough. Having her know and understand that she can come talk to me about anything is what truly matters. I still try and bake a cupcake from time to time.

SL: What’s the best family vacation you’ve ever taken? SKS: Visiting family in Texas prior to us making the move to

the DFW area. Our first 4th of July here had us hooked on the culture of the city. We enjoyed the Dallas World Aquarium and Sesame Street Live in downtown Dallas so much.

SL: Is there a moment or event that radically changed the way you saw Motherhood? SKS: The first time my daughter fell she was about three months old. I have never run so fast in my life and I don’t think my daughter has screamed as loud as she has in her life other than on that day. My heart was in my throat, but as I soothed her and we both calmed down, I realized in that moment that no matter how many precautions I take, life will happen anyway.

SL: When did you know you were ready to have kids? SKS: I’ve always wanted to be a mother, but after I got married, I knew I was ready to start my family about a year later.

SL: What’s your favorite photo of your family or kids? SKS: My husband daughter and I kind of dove onto our bed, my daughter’s hair is messy, I have a towel on my head from just washing my hair and we do not look photo ready at all, but in that moment we all look so happy and content. Imperfectly perfect.

SL: What was the first year of motherhood like for you? SKS: Is it cliché to say it was a rollercoaster? I was in overdrive, trying to breast feed, pump, make home made baby wipes and organic baby food and DIY bows and onesies. As prepared as I felt like I was bringing her home, I realized there is no manual, no advice, nothing that prepares you for the enormity of becoming a mom for the first time.

SL: What do you want or wish most for your kids? SKS: I want my daughter to always be self-assured, confident and brave. I want her to live, love and experience life unapologetically.

SL: What are some of your biggest struggles as a Mom? SKS: I feel like I’m always one step behind. Kids change day by day. There’s always something new

Momilies

they’re doing or learning, and I just feel like I’m always late to the party. I’m big on being an active and involved parent and I just feel like even with all that I do, I could be doing more.

SL: What would your perfect day off be like? Describe it SKS: I would be on a beach somewhere that has a perfect 75-degree temperature, a great book, a good drink, some music and a great meal. I’d watch the sunrise and sunset and enjoy the water.

SL: What’s the one song that means the most to you? SKS: Hold On (Change is comin’) by Sounds of Blackness. It was our family song after my dad passed away. When I need a little bit of encouragement, I play this song and it gets me through.

SL: What advice would you give to your younger self about Motherhood? SKS: Never eat food or drinks that a toddler offers you.

SL: Is there a quote, saying, words of advice or scripture you consider words to live by? SKS: “Be you, love you, all ways, always.”

SL: If you could share a meal with any woman past, present or future who would it be? Why? SKS: I’d love to talk to my daughter when she’s in her old age, like 80, and see how she felt about me as her mother and if she passed any of my life lessons on to her children and grandchildren.

SL: What Mom from real-life or even TV/movies do you admire most? SKS: Ms. Natalie from Gullah Gullah Island on Nickelodeon in the 90s. She was always warm, patient, kind and a great story teller. I always wanted to live in their house on the island as a kid.

SL: At the end of a long day, what do you do for fun or relaxation? SKS: I journal, listen to music, or craft.

– Momilies Column –Would you like to answer our 20 questions about motherhood and becoming a mom? If so, you could be featured here in our next Momilies column with your kids and family? We’ll have our photographer take professional photos of you all for the article as well. We even give you some to keep! Please send an email with your contact information to the editor at: elena@societylifemagazine.com.

– FatherHood Column –Dads can also send in their stories about fatherhood to be considered for an upcoming issue. He can share his memorable moments with our readers by emailing the story to our editor at: elena@societylifemagazine.com.

THE RESPONSIBILITY OF FATHERHOOD

How

Fatherhood Begins With Just

Showing Up

I believe it is a truth that a mother is made over a matter of months, but you always become a father in a single moment. I remember that moment well. The birth of our first child was full of complications. Hours of labor were induced by a rising blood pressure, alternating cycles of magnesium and then Pitocin, and platelet levels too low for an epidural.

After being diagnosed with preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome, the first dose of magnesium gave my wife enough time to sleep before the induced contractions began. I alternatively spent my midnight hours googling preeclampsia in the dark delivery room corner. That was a bad idea.

When our son was finally born at 6:10pm, I knew things were still wrong. I felt the mood of the room change and the pace of the nurses quicken. He came out not breathing and was a strange gray color, grunting and lifeless. My wife, who is also a nurse, knew what needed to be done, as did the doctor and the other nurses. They all went into motion without the need for explanation. I was the only one standing there clueless, knowing enough to know things were wrong, but having nothing meaningful to contribute. I don’t remember exactly what I prayed. Eventually, they were able to get him breathing, and after a few more close calls with her blood pressure and six months of medication, my wife was back to normal, too.

Birth was, for her, even through all of the pain, a kind of culmination. She had sensed those first maternal instincts while our son was still in her womb. Months of anticipated movements and then rib splitting kicks and jerks gave way to the miraculous. Though I certainly was already a father too, for me, the reality came in that moment of realization—that helpless moment of realization—I have a son, and I do not know how to help him. I was struck by the responsibility of it and the helplessness. Fatherhood is a responsibility. And, it comes to you in a single moment.

AS A RITE OF PASSAGE

The ancient cultures and some still guarded by impenetrable rainforests or impassable rivers often practice rites of passage by which boys became men. They are usually some test of strength or tolerance to pain. These tests allow a boy to mark his movement from adolescents to full participation in the community of men. Usually, carrying the possibility and expectation of marriage and soon fatherhood as well.

It’s always struck me that the ancient Hebrews didn’t seem to practice a similar rite of passage, at least none they recorded in their scriptures. The closest thing we have is an old Jewish tradition known as the Bar Mitzvah. Unlike the tests of endurance or strength, a Bar Mitzvah marks the taking of moral responsibility. Up until age thirteen, a Jewish boy is the responsibility of his father, but at his Bar Mitzvah— usually marked by his reading from the Torah—the boy becomes responsible for himself. Bar Mitzvah literally means “son of the commandment.” The father traditionally participates in the ceremony by praying, “Blessed be He who has released me from being punishable for this boy.” The boy is now punishable for himself. He is now responsible.

The rite of passage into Jewish adulthood is one of bearing new responsibility. You do not prove yourself a man. It is not a badge you earn and wear. Instead, you take on the responsibility of being a man. In a single moment, you become responsible. And the whole community comes together to commemorate it. The whole world, and perhaps eternity along with it, has changed in a single moment. But if that moment marks the boy’s taking on his own responsibility, then there is an equally transformative moment when the child first became

his father’s responsibility. Fatherhood is the first Bar Mitzvah. Or might we call it the Abba Mitzvah? In fatherhood, you take responsibility for a child. At that moment, your world is equally changed. You do not prove yourself a dad, instead you take up the responsibility of being one.

SAFETY DAD

In that moment, so much did change for me. Perhaps the helplessness I felt transformed me from a man who usually paid little attention to risk or consequence into a new kind of Safety Dad with an invisible cape and a sudden awareness of every sharp corner, precarious surface, and possible choking hazard. I would never be caught off guard again.

I’ve broken five bones, not counting fingers and toes. I’ve had a treble hook in the top of my head, and fireworks go off in my face. I used to play a game with my brother and cousin in which we would shoot an arrow straight up in the air and see who could stand there under it the longest. But it now took my wife and kids eight years to negotiate getting a trampoline. We finally struck a deal, which included a safety net and foam-covered poles. All of this really did change in a single moment.

No one is really prepared for it. Perhaps you can’t be. Maybe it’s what you don’t know that allows you to do it. And as I am still learning, there is really no way to protect them—not from broken hearts or dashed dreams, cruel words, or this broken world. They do not stay innocent for long.

Fatherhood is a precarious process of walking alongside them, pointing out all these hazards but knowing deep down that the

FATHERHOOD

FatherHood

HIS PERSPECTIVE: STORIES FROM FATHERHOOD | BY CHASE REPLOGLE

only way to live meaningful in the world is to suffer enough of them to find your own way. So we prepare them more than we protect them—and occasionally sneak in a few safety precautions.

Sadly, too many men simply refuse to do it, to carry such weight. They refuse to become fathers. Not to have children, that’s not hard at all, but too many refuse the responsibility of being a father. Currently, 25% of U.S. children are being raised in a home without a father. In countries like China and India, that rate is only 3 and 5 percent. And fatherlessness drastically increases a child’s risk of poverty, mental disorders, criminal activity, teenage pregnancy, addiction, and school dropout.

There are certainly men who consider fatherhood a cramp on their own style, a restriction on their own preoccupations and plans, but I know more men who fear they will not be able to live up to the kind of dads they want to be. Many know the pain of their own father’s failures and know their own stunted character. They have an ideal of what a father should be, and they worry they will not be able to rise to that ideal. Some refuse to try, thinking to fall short is worse than having never tried at all. Nothing could be further from the truth, and the consequences are devastating.

WHAT IS RESPONSIBILITY?

Responsibility feels like a loaded word, but what does responsibility actually mean? Technically, responsibility is nothing more than the ability to respond. To be responsible for anything doesn’t mean you’re an expert. It only means that you’re willing to answer, to show up, to enter the complexity and uncertainty of it, to give it your honest best shot. Think of responsibility as the willingness to respond.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer once wrote, “Action springs not from thought, but from a readiness for responsibility.” The first key to fatherhood is not a head full of answers and advice, it’s simply being there. Responsibility is first presence. As a pastor, one of the things I often say to my congregation is that the greatest spiritual discipline I know is simply showing up. So much of

what God does in our lives is through our willingness to show up, usually not knowing exactly what to do or how to do it. We show up to church each week. We show up to the word and to prayer. Faith itself is a kind of showing up, a raising your hand even when still somewhat uncertain. We live by faith because there are things unseen, things we do not control, and things we do not yet understand. Faith compels us to show up anyways. All of life’s most meaningful things are like that. They require the responsibility of showing up more than knowing exactly what to do. Who is an expert at love or faith or hope? What can we do but keep showing up, keep responding?

C. S Lewis explains, “To love at all is to be vulnerable. Love anything, and your heart will certainly be wrung and possibly be broken. If you want to make sure of keeping it intact, you must give your heart to no one, not even to an animal. Wrap it carefully round with hobbies and little luxuries, avoid all entanglements, lock it up safe in the casket or coffin of your selfishness. But in that casket—safe, dark, motionless, airless—it will change. It will not be broken, it will become unbreakable, impenetrable, irredeemable. The alternative to tragedy, or at least to the risk of tragedy, is damnation.” That is it. We show up knowing we will fail and be hurt but knowing the alternative is far worse.

Fatherhood is a responsibility in which we respond to the complexity and the possible tragedy by persistently accepting it. And out of this commitment comes something which can be found in no other way: love, relationship, meaning, joy. As former President Barak Obama put it, “Any fool can have a child. That doesn’t make you a father. It’s the courage to raise a child that makes you a father.” It does take courage to do it.

A FATHER IS YOUR FIRST FRIEND

Lewis understood what happens when we refuse to take responsibility. We imagine we are protecting ourselves. We are not. We are damning ourselves. We purge our hearts of love and our lives of meaning. We shrink into a smaller world, and our ability

to engage what’s left of it atrophies by selfish obsession. Control always confines. We are left weaker and more cowardly. There are few curses worse than the cowards.

Fatherhood is ultimately a gift not only because you receive the joy of a child but because it thrusts you into a larger world. You respond to this larger-than-life task, and you discover what you can not produce, earn, or make. You discover the joy of receiving—a child, a new world, a responsibility. Fredrick Büchner once observed, “It has become so commonplace to speak of God as ‘our Father’ that we forget what an extraordinary metaphor it once was.” I want to remind you of it again. God is your father first. And if fatherhood is a responsibility which we demonstrate by showing up, then certainly it is true of our heavenly father first as well. God bears responsibility for you. God responds. He shows up. He has adopted you into his family by his own sacrifice.

He comes that we might know Him. He does not leave us to wander or search. He runs out to grab us. He steps into the complexity and brokenness of our world. He does what each of us is called to do. He walks through it with us. Not with bubblewrap, knee pads, and safety nets. No, he walks with us through the pain and through the scaring process. He disciplines us and celebrates with us. He teaches us how to grow up and how to bear responsibility.

Today, I want to encourage you to keep showing up. Keep responding. Certainly, you won’t always get it right. None of us do. You won’t always know what to do either. But a father isn’t an expert. A father is our first friend.

And our world is better because fathers exist. We need fathers desperately. They are worth celebrating, worth admiring, worth thanking, and absolutely worth becoming.“My father didn’t do anything unusual. He only did what dads are supposed to do: be there.” — Max Lucado –

Author Chase Replogle is a pastor and contributor to the5masculineinstincts.com

To meet Kyra was to love Kyra. She easily made friends wherever she went, and loved watching Elmo, Mickey Mouse, and “Kyra TV,” (videos of herself, her mom, and her friends).

Kyra loved sprinklers at the park and bubbles—blowing them, catching them, and taking bubble baths. She often requested “moo-sic” so she could dance. She loved to draw and play with play-doh and puppies. Her smile lit up a room and her giggle was infectious. Kyra touched everyone she met.

Kyra’s murder was preventable.  The court system failed Kyra.

greater good CHAMPIONS Kyra’s

Child Safety First

greater good

CHAMPIONS FOCUSES ON LEGISLATIVE INITIATIVES ON THE

OPERATION HELP A HERO KYRA’S CHAMPIONS

is a 501c4 charity advocating for policy and legislative changes that promote and protect children at risk of family violence. Their mission is to protect children in custody cases from being court-ordered into the home of an abusive parent. We raise awareness about the dangers to children, inside and outside our divorce/family court system, and seek changes in the way family violence and child abuse are addressed in child custody cases.

NO COMMUNITY IS UNTOUCHED

Kyra’s father was emotionally and verbally abusive to Jacqueline during their relationship, and when Jacqueline became pregnant, she left him. After Kyra was born, he reappeared, seeking custody. During the two years of custody hearings, the court was repeatedly notified that Kyra’s father was dangerous, angry and suicidal. During the years of court proceedings, he stalked, harassed, and threatened her. Jacqueline’s repeated warnings and pleas for help fell on deaf ears. Despite these abusive and dangerous behaviors, the forensic evalu-

ator recommended joint custody, and Kyra’s attorney refused to take actions that would have protected Kyra. Just days before her murder at the hands of her father, the family court judge remarked that the case was “not a life-or-death situation.”

In July 2016, Kyra was with her father on a court-sanctioned visit in Virginia when he shot Kyra twice in the back while she slept, he then set his house on fire and killed himself. Kyra’s Champions honors Kyra’s memory by focusing on legislative initiatives on the federal and state levels to ensure children and their safety are top priorities in

our family court systems. No other family should have to deal with the horrors that Kyra and Jacqueline did.

KYRA’S CHAMPIONS

Kyra’s Champions was founded by her mother Jacqueline Franchetti in memory of her sweet, vibrant, loving 28-month old daughter Kyra. Her mission is to stop child abuse and child murders. They advocate for policy changes that promote and protect children and families at risk of family violence. They need your help and support to ensure their voices are heard and that laws are passed to help protect at-risk children.

KYRA’S

FEDERAL AND STATE LEVELS TO ENSURE CHILDREN AND THEIR SAFETY ARE TOP PRIORITIES IN OUR FAMILY COURT SYSTEMS.

KYRA’S STORY IS NOT

UNIQUE.

70% FAILURE RATE in which family court are convinced by an abuser that the victimized parent should be denied sole custody

58,000 AT-RISK CHILDREN are ordered into unsupervised visitation with an abusive parent by state family courts each year

75% OF CHILD DEATHS in the United States are at the hands of a parent

OVER 1/2 MILLION CHILDREN today are court-ordered into a home where they are being sexually, physically, or emotionally abused

20,000 CHILDREN killed in the last 10 years, in their own homes, by a family member

As a 501c4 charity, they seek to change the way issues of violence and abuse that are addressed in family courts so that child safety is put above all else. They honor Kyra’s memory by working to ensure no other child should have the same fate as Kyra and no other family should be impacted by a similar tragedy.

THE KYRA FRANCHETTI FOUNDATION

The Kyra Franchetti Foundation is a 501c3 charity and sister organization to Kyra’s Champions that raises awareness about the risk of family violence, especially to children, inside and outside our divorce/family court system. They seek to change the way issues of violence and abuse are addressed in family courts making child safety the priority.

The Kyra Franchetti Foundation was also founded by Jacqueline Franchetti in memory of her daughter Kyra. The foundation is raising awareness about the dangers of family violence, especially to children, within and outside our divorce/family court system. They seek to create change in the conversation, change in the way issues are addressed in family court, and change in the media discussion and coverage about family violence and those involved.

Tragically, Kyra’s story is not unique. Each year, 58,000 children are court-ordered into the custody of a dangerous parent. More than a half million children are to be with a parent who emotionally, physically, or sexually abuses them by family courts. These statistics should not exist. It shouldn’t happen if child safety comes first. Here are four ways to change the conversation and current statistics.

PROTECTION

Calling attention to this growing problem so we can protect children from being placed in family violence situations.

COMMUNICATION

Changing the conversation, in person and in the media, about family violence to ensure families can have the respect, privacy, and comfort they need and deserve.

EDUCATION

About how current practices in the divorce and family court system place children in grave danger, and how codifying better policies can keep them safe.

ADVOCACY

Through their 501c4 sister organization, Kyra’s Champions, they will advocate for policy changes that promote and protect children and families at risk of violence.

#PINWHEELS4KYRA

Help them honor Kyra’s legacy and raise awareness about child abuse on April 4, 2022… on what should have been Kyra’s 8th birthday (and, coincidentally, April is also National Child Abuse Prevention Month). The dream is to see pictures of groups of eight blue pinwheels all over the place—in completely different settings.

“From the very first time I spoke about Kyra, her story has resulted in life saving measures. By doing something this simple— putting eight pinwheels up—you may help save another child’s life! On April 4th, I ask you to please join me and put eight blue pinwheels on your front lawn to mark Kyra's 8th birthday and to raise awareness about child abuse. Blue pinwheels represent child abuse prevention, and I know Kyra would love to see everyone celebrating her on her special day, “ shared Jacqueline.

Don’t have eight blue pinwheels? No problem. For $28 you can purchase pinwheels. Don’t have a lawn? No problem. Put the eight pinwheels in a vase or around your home or someplace people can see them. On Kyra’s birthday, take a picture of the pinwheels and tag Kyra’s Champions on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. Order no later than March 21st as it will be first come, first serve until supplies run out.

JACQUELINE FRANCHETTI

Through Jacqueline’s fierce advocacy, in Kyra’s memory, there have already been two passed bills on the state and federal level. And, they have six bills, including Kyra’s Law, that they want to see adopted in all 50 states to protect children. Kyra’s murder was preventable. The courts failed Kyra. Kyra’s Champions and The Kyra Franchetti Foundation ask you to join them in making history, let's make child safety the top priority! –

kyraschampions.org kyrafranchetti.org

order pinwheels: kyraschampions.org/order

NOW THRU DEC 23 • THE

HAPPY ELF AT

DALLAS CHILDREN’S THEATER • From the Grammy–winning musician Harry Connick, Jr., this jazz musical is sure to get you in the holiday spirit! Eubie is, much to the exhaustion of his coworkers, an elf of unparalleled and endless energy looking to get a spot on Santa’s coveted sleigh team. When his unstoppably sunny spirit comes into contact with the miserable town of Bluesville— where every single child is on the naughty list—he’s in for the shock of a lifetime. Will his relentless positive attitude be enough to turn this gloomy place around, or has the happiest elf in the North Pole finally met his match? The Happy Elf runs every weekend day between Nov 27 and Dec 23 at 1:30pm and 4:30pm. The show is recommended for ages 5 and up. The Dallas Children’s Theater is located at 5938 Skillman, Dallas 75231. Tickets are $28-$35 and available at: tickets.dct.org

NOW THRU DEC 23 • A CHRISTMAS CAROL

AT CASA MANANA

• Casa Mañana presents a new, fresh twist on a classic Dickens tale that will have kids ages 4 to 100 laughing alike. Christmas Carol: A New Musical Comedy features a contemporary pop score and current pop culture references sure to have you dancing in the aisles. Don’t miss your chance to get in the spirit of the season with this new holiday tradition. This show is suitable for all audiences. Tickets range from $19 to $38. Vvisit: casamanana.org

NOW THRU DEC 24 • HOLIDAYS IN THE STOCKYARDS

• Celebrate the holidays Cowboy-style every Friday-Sunday starting with Santa’s grand arrival on November 25th, and continuing through December 24th with fun activities for the whole family. Centered on western heritage holiday activities that the entire family can enjoy, like a cattle drive, story time with Mrs. Claus, caroling and cowboy Santa! All festivities happen along East Exchange Avenue on the lawns of the Cowtown Coliseum & Livestock Exchange Building, inside Stockyards Station, and participating surrounding businesses like Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame and Billy Bobs. Photos with Santa are taken from noon-5pm in Stockyards Station. For a list of events, visit: fortworthstockyards.com ....................................................................

NOW THRU DEC 24

• PHOTOS WITH SANTA

AT NORTHEAST MALL • During Santa’s Sabbatical from the North Pole, kids can stop by to whisper their list, then have a magical moment with Santa captured forever in keepsake photos. Now through Christmas Eve, Santa will be stationed in the Center Court near Macy’s and Starbucks Monday

through Saturday from 10am until 9pm and Sunday from noon until 6pm. For more info, call (817) 284-3427.

NOW THRU DEC 24 • PHOTOS WITH SANTA AT LONE STAR CHRISTMAS

• Whether you’ve been naughty or nice, don’t miss the chance to have a treasured photo taken with old Saint Nick. From now until December 24, Santa will be waiting for you in the Lone Star Atrium, near the Oil Derrick next to Texan Station. Times: M-F 4-9pm, Sat 10am-9pm and Sun 10am-6pm. Photo packages start at $35 and are required to meet Santa. For more details and special hours, please visit: GaylordTexan.com

NOW THRU DEC 24 • SANTA’S WONDERLAND AT BASS PRO SHOPS • Bass Pro

Shops features Santa’s Wonderland where families can get a free photo with Santa weekdays from 5-8pm, Saturdays 10am until 8pm and Sundays from 10am until 5pm. Is your little one a bit shy or you don’t have time to wait in line? Families can also drop by a letter to Santa and enjoy the amazing aquariums and wildlife displays found in every Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s store. Bass Pro Shop is located at 2501 Bass Pro Drive in Grapevine and at 5001 Bass Pro Drive in Garland. Visit BassPro.com for more details and advanced reservations. ....................................................................

NOW THRU DEC 24 • PHOTOS WITH SANTA IN GRAPEVINE • Don’t miss the opportunity to capture the perfect Christmas family

photo with Kris Kringle at the Founders Building at 701 South Main Street in historic downtown Grapevine. Reservations are vailable for photo times Monday through Sunday starting now through December 24. Receive your photos before you leave! Picture packages start at $30. Please visit: MainStreetSanta.com for more info. ....................................................................

NOW THRU DEC 24 • SANTA’S VILLAGE AT SOUTHLAKE TOWN SQUARE

• Kids of all ages can visit with the jolly fella at Santa’s Village in Southlake Town Square. Starting Sunday, November 20 through Christmas Eve, you can stop by to take a peek inside the village, have photos taken or just drop off a last-minute request letter to Santa. Photo prices start at $25.95. To decrease

the number of people waiting in line, there will be a paging system. Check in at the Elf Station in person next to Santa’s Village to put your name on the list for that day only. Get a text 10 minutes before your turn. Visit: SouthlakeTownSquare.com

NOW THRU DEC 24 • CHRISTMAS VILLAGE AT THE DALLAS ARBORETUM

• Santa is back at the garden in the perfect holiday setting: The Christmas Village. Share your Christmas wish with the jolly old man, and take a photo to commemorate the occasion. Keepsake family photos are available for a donation to the Volunteer Advisory Board from noon–3pm on both Saturdays and Sundays. Santa is only one of the reasons to come visit the arboretum during the holi-

days. You won’t want to miss the chance to see the 12 Days of Christmas and the 50foot-tall musical tree. Admission includes Holiday at the Arboretum and the Christmas Village. Both members and non-members are required to reserve tickets in advance. Adult (13-64) $20, Senior (65+) , $16, Child (2-12) $12, Members are free. Please visit: dallasarboretum.org

NOW THRU DEC 24 • SANTA AT GALLERIA

DALLAS

• Come see Santa in-person at Santaland at Galleria Dallas. Stationed on level one near Banana Republic, families are welcome to bring their phones or digital cameras to take photos with Santa. Combo tickets are available with the photo op and exhibit Snowday. From there, you can catch the next Express Train to Santaland with daily non-stop service to the North Pole. These trains leave every 15 minutes. You’ll arrive in a magical moonlit forest and journey through an enchanted path filled with starry lights, polar bears, and extra photo ops leading to Santa’s majestic cabin hideaway. Special Needs: Book your visit between 8am and 11am on Sunday, December 18 during Santa Cares, an exclusive time for kids with all spectrums of special needs. Have a furbaby? Bring your pet (100 pounds and under) for photos with Santa on Wednesday nights from 6pm until close. Pet tickets are available on the ticketing page and are the same price as for kids. Visit: snowdaydallas.com

DEC 26 •

PEPPA PIG LIVE!

PEPPA

PIG’S

ADVENTURE • Peppa Pig Live! Peppa Pig’s Adventure will bring the lovable, cheeky little piggy to audiences across the United States in time for the holidays! Come join Peppa this Holiday season on an exciting camping trip in the winter woods with George and her school friends, including Pedro Pony, Suzy Sheep and Gerald Giraffe. With lunchboxes packed and Daddy Pig driving the bus, Peppa and friends are excited about their outdoor holiday adventure, full of singing, dancing, games and surprises. Little piggies everywhere will love celebrating the season with this 60-minute live musical experience! The tour will make a stop in Arlington, Texas at College Park Center on Monday, December 26, 2022 at 6pm. Tickets for the live, family-friendly experience are on sale at: utatickets.com

NOW THRU DEC 31 •

PRAIRIE LIGHTS 2022

AT

LYNN CREEK

PARK • Upon arriving at the entrance to Prairie Lights, you will be dazzled with 4 million lights set along 2 miles of path. Hundreds of all-new displays in shapes

CHRISTMAS VILLAGE AT THE DALLAS ARBORETUM

of all kinds line and arch over the roads. Halfway through the drive, get out of your car for a stop at Holiday Village where you find food, gifts, Santa and the Holiday Magic Lighted Walk-Through Forest. The second half of the drive ends with the animated light tunnel—perfect finale to a night you’ll never forget. Prairie Lights is open every day 6-10pm. Admission is $50 per car. Advanced tickets available now. Santa returns to the North Pole on December 23, so if you want to give him any last requests, visit before then! For tickets and details, visit: prairielights.org ....................................................................

NOW THRU JAN 1, 2023 • ENCHANT AT FAIR PARK • Escape to an incredible illuminated winter wonderland. Experience a world of adventure featuring over 4 million sparkling lights creating a fully-immersive walk-thru, story-themed maze. Discover a charming Village offering ice-skating, live entertainment, dining, holiday shopping, Santa and Mrs. Claus, and much more. Enchant is a spectacular annual event produced out on the playing fields of major league sports stadiums and iconic outdoor spaces. Make plans to bring family and friends to Enchant for your most memorable, fun, and heartwarming evening of the Christmas season. A world of Christmas wonder awaits! Tickets are on sale now and start at $34 for adults and $20 for children. For tickets, visit: enchantmagic.com ....................................................................

NOW THRU JAN 1, 2023 • THE LIGHT PARK AT HURRICANE HARBOR • The most exciting and electrifying light show South of the North Pole, The Light Park is a mile-long, drive-thru spectacular that has been heralded as “one of the coolest ways to brighten your holiday season.” At the Light Park, guests will witness millions of lights synchronized to an electric mix of music powered by DJ Polar Ice from the North Pole’s #1 Hit Radio station, K-GLO as they take in the brightest sights and sounds in the South. Priced per vehicle, rather than per person, the more is truly merrier for visitors who want to travel through the longest light tunnel in the world, rock out to the coolest tunes, and celebrate the holiday season with the most Insta-worthy shots! Tickets start at $49 per vehicle and must be purchased in advance. For tickets and info, visit: thelightpark.com ....................................................................

NOW THRU JAN 1, 2023 • GAYLORD TEXAN RESORT LONE STAR CHRISTMAS • There is absoltely no better way to celebrate the holidays than gathering your family for Christmas at Gaylord Texan Resort and

Convention Center in Grapevine. ICE! returns this holiday season. Step into a wonderland carved by expert artisans out of two million pounds of colorful ice. You’ll see the story of The Polar Express in larger-than-life sculptures and even plunge down slides made entirely of ice. Try your hand at snowball throwing, snowtubing, gingerbread decorating, and so much Christmas at Gaylord Texan! Use code RUDOLPH to get 50% off several attractions. Tickets and info, please visit: ChristmasAtGaylordTexan.com ....................................................................

NOW THRU JAN 4, 2023

• SNOWLAND AT GREAT WOLF LODGE

• The magical experience of Snowland at Great Wolf Lodge is unforgettable. From spectacular decorations, visits with Santa, Snowland-themed

suites, and even a life-sized gingerbread house, it’s one of the best times to visit Great Wolf Lodge. There’s a feeling of happiness that glows through the Lodge, and just entering the lobby will take your breath away and make you feel like you just stepped into a winter wonderland. Santa visits on the weekends, a red mailbox is in the lobby that will deliver your message directly to the North Pole, and you can stop by Great Wolf Kids where they will provide you with themed paper to write your letter to Santa. Bring joy to your family this holiday with time together under the enchanting spell of Snowland’s twinkling lights, holiday trees and indoor snow showers that melt

into 84-degree weather in their indoor water park. Visit: GreatWolf.com/snowland ....................................................................

NOW THRU JAN 6, 2023 • THE TRAINS AT NORTHPARK

• Since 1987, the Trains at Northpark have been delighting the hearts and minds of young and old alike. This holiday family tradition features miniature toy trains rolling along 1,600 feet of track from coast to coast on a whimsical rail journey across America. The Trains travel from the autumn foliage of New England to San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge with stops along the way to see New York City, Washington DC, our beautiful city of Dallas, and the desert Southwest, including the Grand Canyon. The display is on view on Level Two between Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom’s

from now until January 6, 2023 (except on Thanksgiving and Christmas—closing at 4pm Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve, and 6pm New Year's Day). Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for kids and seniors. All proceeds from ticket sales help Ronald McDonald House of Dallas families. Visit: thetrainsatnorthpark.com

NOW THRU JAN 8, 2023 • GRAPEVINE ICE

RINK • Just when we thought the Christmas Capital of Texas couldn’t get any bigger, Grapevine announced that, for the first time, the city will unveil an all-new attraction for the 2022 holiday season—a 4,500-sqfoot outdoor ice-skating rink on Historic Main Street. Visitors will enjoy the Texassized ice rink that will be located on Peace

Plaza in front of the Grapevine Main Station, home to Harvest Hall. The towering live Christmas tree will remain in its location on the plaza, as well as the larger-than-life ornaments visitors have come to know and love each season, such as the giant reindeer, Victorian coaches and more. Everyone will have plenty of time to enjoy all the festivities and work on their triple lutz thanks to a schedule that spans 52 days up to January 8! The rink will quickly become a must-visit winter activity for all ages, and adding to the list of more than 1,400 attractions and events Grapevine hosts over 40 days during the holiday season. Please visit: grapevinetexasusa.com

NOW THRU JAN 8, 2023 • LIGHTSCAPE AT FORT WORTH BOTANIC GARDEN

• After sold-out runs in the world’s largest cities— London, Melbourne, Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York—the internationally acclaimed Lightscape will make its North Texas debut at Fort Worth Botanic Garden. With entry times available every 15 minutes from 5:45-9pm nightly, ticketholders will walk an illuminated 1.2-mile-long path with suspended strands and tunnels of light, fire garden, undulating wave of bluebonnets, singing trees, treetop sculptures, and other artistic installations. Attendees will also have the opportunity to toast marshmallows over a fire and drink hot chocolate and seasonal drinks at stations along the trail. Tickets are $28 for adults and $18 for kids ages 3 to 12. Children 2 and under are free. Tickets on sale now at: fwbg.org/lightscape

JAN

15, 2023 • APEX CHAMBER MUSIC OF FRANCE

• Apex Arts League is pleased to feature “Chamber Music of France” performed by Mikhail Berestnev, piano and Eunice Keem, violinEunice is the associate concertmaster of the Dallas Symphony and a dynamic, engaging violin soloist. Misha has been described as an astonishingly gifted pianist with flawless technique, constant inspiration and superb sonority. The event will be held on Sunday January 15th at 5pm at Grace Chapel at White’s Chapel Church. Tickets are $25 Adult, $20 Senior/APEX member, and $10 Children/Student. Tickets for this event can be purchased at the door or by visiting them online at: apexartsleague.com

JAN 18-29, 2023

• THE LION KING AT BASS HALL

• For the first time in 20 years, Disney’s The Lion King returns to Bass Performance Hall for just two weeks! Giraffes strut. Birds swoop. Gazelles leap. The entire Serengeti comes to life as never before. And as the

music soars, Pride Rock slowly emerges from the mist. This is Disney’s The Lion King! More than 100 million people around the world have experienced the awe-inspiring visual artistry, the unforgettable music, and the uniquely theatrical storytelling of this Broadway spectacular—one of the most breathtaking and beloved productions ever to grace the stage. Tickets at: basshall.com ....................................................................

JAN 21, 2023

• CBI CASINO NIGHT • The 2023 Casino Night is raising funds for CBI (Congregation Beth Israel) and three local charities: Grapevine Relief and Community Exchange (GRACE), Jewish Family Services of Fort Worth & Tarrant County (JFS), and the Jordan Elizabeth Harris Foundation. All of these organizations are improving the lives of individuals and families in our community on a daily basis, and it is an honor to be able to support them. The event starts at 6:30pm at Good Shepherd Catholic Church at 1000 Tinker Road in Colleyville. Tickets are $25 and sponsorships start at $250. To learn more about the organizations and this event, visit: cbiCasinoNight.com

JAN 22, 2023

• CELEBRITY CHEFS • Enjoy an evening with your favorite local chefs’ extraordinary cuisine paired with fabulous wines, chefs’ live auction packages, and an amazing online silent auction all benefiting the women and children of SafeHaven. We are grateful for your continued support of this significantly worthy cause which will mean so much to families affected by domestic abuse. Your generous donation will touch many lives! Sponsorships and tickets now available. Celebrity Chefs 2023 is pairing with a purpose—together we can make a difference! Visit mid-citiessos.org

NOW THRU FEB 6, 2023 • MODERN LIGHTS

AT THE MODERN ART MUSEUM

• The Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth is impressive during any season. However, it's only possible to witness its spectacular illumination during the holiday season. Visitors can all enjoy the sight of festive lights from the galleries. The museum offers extended hours until 8pm and free gallery admission on Fridays. Take your time to enjoy dazzling lights on the museum grounds or grab a bite at Café Modern during “Dinner with Lights’ on Friday evenings. You can also enjoy a cup of hot chocolate at “Lights, Flights, and Bites” on Tuesdays. For more information, please visit: themodern.org

27th annual Garden of Roses fundraiser. This year’s special event promises to be like a lovely morning on the riverbanks of Paris. It will feature a grand array of silent and live auction items, with an elegant luncheon, and signature French-themed cocktails. There will also be raffle drawings, as well as the popular Restaurant Tree and Wine Pulls, all capped off with a fashion show highlighting the latest spring styles. Join us Saturday, Feb 25, 2023 from 10am to 1pm at Bowden Event Center, 1775 Keller Parkway in Keller. Visit: gkwc.org or sponsorship@gkwc.org

APR 22, 2023 • KELLER CITIZENS POLICE

you don’t) Well the good folks at the KCPAAA are gonna have a raffle for you! You could win a GLOCK 43X, from Bear Creek Firearms. I recon you don’t always to have someone to shoot so you can also win a Two Brothers Winery Wine Tasting for 10, Ryobi One+ Trimmer Edger from Home Depot, Horizon 76 Gift Card, Z Bar Cattle Co. Gift Card, and a Keller Chophouse Gift Card. Tickets are $5.00 each or 5 for $20.00. You can also buy tickets by moseying over to the Keller Crawfish Krawl on April 22, 2023. If your fix’in to buy tickets contact KCPAAA at KellerCPAAA@gmail.com

FEB 25, 2023

• GKWC SPRING ON THE SEINE

• The Greater Keller Women’s Club Foundation is pleased to invite you to its

ACADEMY

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

RAFFLE • Howdy, do Y’all like guns? (of course, you do). Do you have enough guns? (of course,

First-come, first-served. Include event name, date, time, location, ticket pricing, contact info, website, brief explanation. Email: elena@societylifemagazine.com

CELEBRITY CHEFS

BY MARY MACDOWELL

pairing with a purpose

CELEBRITY CHEFS BENEFITING SAFEHAVEN

Once the tree has been dismantled and resolutions made, you’ll want to mark your calendar for the Culinary Event of the New Year. Mid-Cities Supporters of SafeHaven (SOS) presents Celebrity Chefs Pairing with a Purpose on Sunday, January 22, 2023, at the beautiful Hurst Conference Center. There will be 17 distinctive top chefs extraordinary cuisine, fabulous wines, and magnificent big board travel! It all leads to the climax of the evening—the rousing and competitive live auction featuring the Celebrity Chefs’ Unique Culinary Packages. As a Luxardo cherry tops a decadent sundae, these luxurious packages cap the evening. Fun and laughter abound as the paddles lift high. Guests do their best to outbid each other for gourmet meals in the chefs’ restaurants or catered feasts served in the highest bidder’s home. Celebrity Chefs has garnered its reputation from the rave reviews of the Gourmands, Bon Vivants, and Oenophiles who attend. And while you’re climbing that stairway to foodie heaven, you’ll be making a difference in the lives of countless women and children at SafeHaven of Tarrant County—the only state-designated family violence center in Tarrant County.

That’s what Pairing with a Purpose is all about. It’s what Mid-Cities SOS is all about—ending domestic violence! Behind this mission cry lies a forceful squad of Mid-Cities SOS members who volunteer so much of their time to raise the needed funds that make the shelter feel more like home. The impact they make, especially towards Mid-Cities SOS sustainability, is priceless Imagine a community without volunteers. School kids would have to cross busy streets by themselves. Homebound seniors would go hungry. Churches would cease to exist. Because these fabulous worker bees freely offer their time and services, Mid-Cities SOS can host an upscale event with minimal operating expenses. And then there are the fantastic chefs! Seventeen of Tarrant County's Top Chefs prepare and personally serve their finest signature dishes to 450 guests. Chef Rena Frost, owner of Mac’s on Main in Grapevine and Mac’s Bar and Grill in Arlington, is not only a member of Mid-Cities SOS but also the Chair of Celebrity Chefs. Even with her demanding career, Chef Rena feels compelled to help. “A very important part of my restaurants is the knowledge that we contribute to the communities that we do business in. Sometimes it’s participating in a festival/fundraiser, a restaurant week, a school event, or being on a committee that supports our neighbors. Chairing Celebrity Chefs allows me to support a cause that I believe in and has a huge impact on those in need.”

The common denominator shared by all is courage. It’s not always easy to hear the horrific stories or look into the eyes of those abused. Domestic violence is an insidious crime. ‘Just leaving’ is never that simple. Seven women in Tarrant County died at the hands of their partners in 2021. Three women lived in Fort Worth—the remaining four were from Hurst, Arlington, Grand Prairie, and Mansfield. The members and volunteers of Mid-Cities SOS forge ahead because 1-in-3 women in Texas will

FAST FACTS CELEBRITY

CHEFS

Sunday, January 22, 2023 at 5:30pm

THE HURST CONFERENCE CENTER

1601 CAMPUS DRIVE HURST, TEXAS 76054

• Champagne Reception

• Unforgettable Evening with your Favorite Chefs!

• Extraordinary Cuisine Paired with Fabulous Wines!

• Lavish Chefs' Live Auction Packages

• Exciting Online Silent Auction including Jewels, Wines and Cigars in Deluxe Cases, and so much more!

BIG BOARD

• Lights on Broadway NYC Weekend Trip

• Day at the Races at Lonestar Park

• Ann Hardy Painting

• Beaver Creek Condo

• Ozark Mountain Ultimate Fishing on the White River

• Possum Kingdom Lakehouse for 7 nights, including Dinner for 10 with Chef Susan Clark of Sweet Memories... and more!

mid-citiessos.org/celebritychefs

SL 6 Questions About

CELEBRITY CHEFS

experience domestic violence in her lifetime. 60% of men who abuse their spouse will abuse their children. 33 % of women who suffer abuse are witnessed by at least one child. That is why supporting Mid-Cities SOS Celebrity Chefs is so crucial. Since 2003, Mid-Cities SOS has raised over $2.7 million thanks to the efforts of its members, volunteers, supporting Chefs, and loyal sponsors. Every little thing they do—every big thing they do—collectively helps a lot!

—————————————————————————

WHO: Mid-Cities Supporters of SafeHaven (SOS) is a 501c3 non-profit group of mighty members joined in one mission—to end domestic violence. Since 1985, they have been helping those who have to leave. Their mission remains the same—educate victims of domestic violence about available refuge and support services. Increase community awareness of domestic violence issues. Provide volunteer and financial support to SafeHaven. Meet the 2023 Celebrity Chefs who help make this event great:

• Chef Jon Bonnell, Bonnell's Restaurant Group

• Chef Donatella Trotti, Nonna Tata

• Chef Andrew Huszar, Tastefully Yours Catering

• Chef Luciano Salvadore, Calabrese

• Chef Christian Gutierrez, Loveria Caffé Taste of Italy

• Chef Matt Schwartz, Craft & Vine Taproom and Eatery

• Chef Ying Aikens, Next Bistro

• Chef Kevin Martinez, Tokyo Café

• Chef Rena Frost, Mac's on Main

• Chef Brooke Elizondo, Jane

• Mike Lafavers, Feedstore BBQ & More

• Chef Ben Merritt, Fitzgerald

• Chef Juan Rodriquez, Magdalena’s

• Chef Sarah Hooton, Hot Box Biscuit Club

• Sadie Smith & Amanda Majors, Nothing Bundt Cakes

• Chef Burak Ozcan, FERAH Tex-Med Kitchen

• Chef Greg Clinton, Hurst Conference Center – –

WHAT: Mid-Cities Supporters of SafeHaven (SOS) presents: Celebrity Chefs Pairing with a Purpose benefiting women and children of SafeHaven of Tarrant County. —

WHERE: The Hurst Conference Center

1601 Campus Drive, Hurst, Texas 76054 – –

WHEN: Sunday, January 22, 2022 at 5:30pm

WHY: These harsh statistics are the reason we need to help:

• A woman is being abused every 8 seconds

• 1 in every three women in Tarrant County experiences domestic violence during her lifetime

• 60% of men who abuse their spouse will abuse their children

• 33% of women who suffer abuse are witnessed by at least one child

.............................................................................................................

PROCEEDS FROM CELEBRITY CHEFS PROFOUNDLY IMPACTS SAFEHAVEN OF TARRANT COUNTY

• 1,526 women and children found refuge in emergency shelters

• 12,560 Emergency hotline calls were answered by trained advocates

• 449 Women and children found independence in SafeHaven's housing program

• 585 Women and Children received counseling at our resource centers

• 96 Women received legal representation and assistance at no cost

.............................................................................................................

YOUR DONATION MAKES A DIFFERENCE!

$10 – Can buy a teddy bear for a child in crisis $15 – Can buy a new pair of shoes $25 – Purchases a new coat for a child in the shelter this winter $50 – One week’s supply of groceries for a family in transition $100 – Sends a child to Camp Heart for a weekend $500 – Shelters a battered woman and her children for five days – –

HOW: Mid-Cities SOS gets the job done through the help of its hardworking members, volunteers, loyal sponsors and generous chefs. They believe that those who can do, do. Those who can do more, volunteer! You can become a member and stop domestic violence! Mid-Cities SOS gets the job done and here’s how:

• Over $2.7 Million Raised!

• Hosts Wildly Popular Celebrity Chefs and Annual Tennis Benefit

• Hosts Intimate Wine Dinners at Local Restaurants to Support Chefs and Raise Funds

• Serves Dinner and Provides Thanksgiving Meals for the Shelter

• Created the Christmas Tree and Angel Tree Projects to Provide Christmas Décor And Gifts

• Knits Hats for Babies

• Provides Halloween Costumes

• Donates Thousands of Hours at SafeHaven's Berry Good Buys Resale Shop

• Continuously Collects Clothing, Household Items, and Furniture and Delivers Them All To Berry Good Buys

• Collected Over 375 Books For Summer Reading

Tickets: $200 – Hurry! They will sell out! – – –

If you or a loved one is being abused, call the Domestic Violence Hotline: 877-701-SAFE (7233) | mid-citiessos.org/ celebritychefs –

Babe’s Chicken Dinner House • Fried chicken as good as grandma’s, but she’s got better things to do, like chow down on unlimited sides. Warm biscuits with butter and honey are reason to go. • Roanoke and NRH babeschicken.com $ L D

Blue 22 Sports Grill • Locally owned, family gathering spot with a scratch kitchen offering prime sporting events—what more could you ask for? This is a perfect family friendly sports bar! • Trophy Club blue22sportsgrill.com $-$$ L D

Chef Point Modern Bar & Restaurant • Fine dining redefined. With indoor and outdoor dining spaces, they accommodate private and semi-private parties. Catering available. • Colleyville and Watauga chefpointcafe.org $-$$ (Sat.B) L D

Chill Restaurant & Bar • Sports headquarters for business meetings, company parties, wedding receptions and rehearsals, birthdays and anniversaries. Outdoor patio, live music and ladies night. • Grapevine chillgrapevine.com $ L D R

Stunning indoor-outdoor watering hole. Everything from expansive beer and wine choices to a menu of shareable plates invites conversation. Happy hour with martinis and sunsets. Roanoke craftandvine.restaurant $$ L D

American grill comfort cuisine serving memories with a twist. A decidedly casual neighborhood spot where you get both a good burger and a dressed-up plate of mussels. The Keller fngeats.com $$ (Brunch) L D R

• Healthy has never been more indulgent. Using all-natural, minimally processed ingredients, the menu satisfies almost anything, whether you’re on a restricted diet or throwing • Trophy Club hgsplyco.com $$ L D

Order a burger served “bone-in” or topped with mac and cheese and bacon, or chicken pot pie made with fried chicken chunks and crowned with a crispy chicken tender. Build horizon76.com $$ L D

Wine should be easy, eco-friendly and enjoyable—that’s why their wine is on tap. Tap is less bottles, less waste, consistent quality—glass after glass. Consider this your new wine bar. • Trophy Club leelaswinebar.com $$ D

TruFire Kitchen & Bar • Consistent menu, exemplary burger of akaushi beef or truffle-scented mac and cheese. Banana split and handcrafted cocktails are a must. Gluten free and vegetarian menus. • Southlake trufire.us $$ B L D

ASIAN / SUSHI / THAI ....................................

Cowtown Sushi • Unexpectedly refined sushi and sashimi. They’ve had “hidden gem” status for way too long. Chefs are eager to impress diners, making this an environment to expand your palate. • Southlake cowtownsushi.com $-$$ L D

Foster’s Sushi, Seafood, Bar & Grill • Creative style to fill your appetite. Indoor and outdoor bar with friendly staff and total of 10 flat screen TVs to suit all sports fans, plus happy hour from 3-6pm. • Roanoke fostersushi.com $-$$ L D

Honey Teriyaki • Quality Japanese food—teriyaki and sushi. Many sauces made from scratch with honey—hence the name. Large portions, reasonable prices, friendly service, legit food. • Colleyville tinyurl.com/honeyteriyaki $-$$ L D

Maki & Poké • Sushi rolls and Hawaiian bowls—here you don’t have to choose! Incredibly fresh and generous sushi rolls. BYOB (build your own bowl) is a fav. Very deserving of their many 5-star ratings! • NRH tinyurl.com/nrhpoke $-$$ L D

Malai Kitchen • Thai-Vietnamese mash-up—with silky curries, sriracha made in-house. Imaginative beverage program with house-brewed beers. A rand finale, Mango Sticky Rice Smash. • Southlake malaikitchen.com $$-$$$ L D

My Lan Vietnamese Kitchen • Big, steaming bowls of pho, heaping rice plates and rows of crispy egg rolls. Vietnamese staples are soulful and flavorful with reasonable prices . • Colleyville my-lan-vietnamese-kitchen.business.site $ L D

NAPA Thai Asian Cuisine • Unique Thai restaurant that offers a glimpse of traditional Thai culture—where balance and harmony come together in a relaxing, yet elegant atmosphere. • Colleyville napathaicuisine.com $-$$ L D

Noodles @ Boba Tea House • Generously portioned, skillfully prepared Vietnamese, pan-Asian dishes. Try the spicy beef noodle soup, Thai beef salad and the Mocha Madness smoothie. • Fort Worth noodlesbth.com $ L D

• Celebrating all things Southern—a neighborhood gathering place. Take them up on their BYOB invite when shrimp and grits is on their specials board. • In Grapevine Antique Market facebook.com/masonanddixie $ L

Mason & Dixie

Sabai Sabai Southeast Asian Kitchen • Expect pad Thai, massaman curry, pho, also explore Lao beef jerky, steamed fish or a marinated beef salad. Dine in or takeout. Food packs plenty of flavor. • Grapevine sabaisabaikitchen.com $ L D

• Crowd pleaser serving globallyinspired fare like Thai curry bowls, tuna ceviche, steak frites. Fun, sophisticated setting that’s equal parts sports bar and eclectic brasserie. • Southlake us.moxies.com $$-$$$ L D

Moxie’s Grill & Bar

Next Wood Fired Bistro & Vino Bar • Intimate, and refined restaurant serving everything from simple roasted chicken or crab cakes, to lamb tagine or surf and turf. Acclaimed wine program. • Colleyville nextwoodfiredbistro.com $$$ L D

Oak Street Food and Brew • Food hall with chef-driven food—from fish and chips to overstuffed baked potatoes, to craft bbq. Expansive in and out—gathering place for groups. • Roanoke oakstreetfoodandbrew.com $-$$ B L D

Saikou Sushi & Ramen • Well-executed Japanese cuisine. Slurp tonkotsu ramen, pork-forward broth, superb vegetable ramen, classic miso, shoyu and shio varieties. Sushi and bento boxes. • Alliance saikousushiramen.com $-$$ L D

Sushi Dojo • Premier fast-casual sushi restaurant specializing in party trays, office/event catering, and food truck service. Known for sushi tacos and burritos. Delicious, affordable, high quality sushi. • Southlake sushidojodfw.com $-$$ L D

Sushi Nomi • Modern Japanese with inventive sushirolls, ramen, teriyaki and more, plus beer and wine. Choose from delicious lunch options like bento boxes, fried rice, sushi specials. • Fort Worth facebook.com/SushiNomiTexas $-$$ L D

• From power lunch to happy hour, to a romantic date night. Weekends start with buffet brunch and end with drinks on rooftop bar. Flatbreads, seafood, steak. • Grapevine piafkitchen.com $$-$$$ (Brunch) L D

PIAF Kitchen+Wine+Bar

Sky Creek Grill • In Sky Creek Ranch Golf Club—bistro dishes with contemporary western flair. Steak, salmon, pasta, salads, sandwiches, hamburgers, cold beer. Restaurant and bar open to public. • Keller skycreekranch.com $-$$ B L D

Sky Creek Kitchen + Bar • Sky Creek embodies casual elegance with sleek, understated décor—prime destination for a special celebration, family dinner, romantic evening, or afterwork drinks. • Southlake skycreekkitchen.com $-$$ L D

Stone House Restaurant • Regionally inspired, locally sourced proteins and a chef’s garden. Sharables, craft beer, cocktails, wine, chops. Must-try 1200-degree broiled steak. • Colleyville stonehouse-restaurant.com $$-$$$ D

The Trophy Table • Scratch-made food, daily specials, chefdriven menu, ample indoor/outdoor dining—everything from comfort food to seafood and steaks. Live music in a casual, fun atmosphere • Trophy Club thetrophytable.com $$ L D

Sushi Sam • Lunch deals like loaded bento boxes. Management is always warm and personable, which is reflected in their friendly service. Amazing salmon skin rolls (not the easiest to pull off). • Southlake sushisam.net $ L D

Thailicious • Authentic Thai in a contemporary, relaxed environment. Soft shell crab, creamy curries, Crying Tiger and pad Thai. Seek out tom yum-inspired martinis and mojitos. • Southlake ThailiciousSouthlake.com $$ L D

Trending Kitchen • True scratch kitchen with rotating menu that changes weekly. Family owned and run. Top-notch ingredients. Best cakes around—come early as they sell out fast! • NRH facebook.com/thetrendshopdesigns $$ L

V’s House • Family-owned Vietnamese restaurant offering upscale takes on classic dishes—plus surprises. You’ll find staples of Vietnamese cuisine, including pho varieteies—all made in-house. Creative cocktail menu. • NRH vshouse.net $-$$ L D

Wine:30 • Wine bar featuring Texas wineries/wine makers, complimented by wines from California, France, and Italy— also offering a handful of locally brewed craft beers, flatbreads and charcuterie board pairings. • Roanoke w30.wine $-$$ L D

BAKERIES / TREATS / COFFEE / TEA / JUICE .......

Axiom Coffee • Coffee house with purpose. Organic beans sourced from small Honduras producers from a farm run by World Gospel Outreach employing single moms to harvest and supports an orphanage.

j Personalized Grazing • Specializing in customized charcuterie boards and personalizing your culinary experiences, they offer classes, gifts, filled and unfilled boards, even custom boards. • Southlake personalizedgrazing.com $-$$$ B L D

• NFW axiomcoffee.com $ B L D

Board + Brie • A curated array of noshables that pair perfectly with wine and talk. Cheese and charcuterie grazing boxes and boards, crowd-pleasing fare or feasts for one. Pick up or delivery. Catering for tables. • Roanoke boardbrie.com $$-$$$ L D

Brew & Batter • Locally owned, stand alone house serving good coffee! Not to mention waffles! There offer two bases— cornbread and a liege waffle (a european waffle made with yeast daily) • Grapevine brew-batter.business.site $ B L D

j Buzzed Bull Creamery • Made-to-order, alcoholic and non-alcoholic frozen dessert and coffee company—harnessing the power of liquid nitrogen to bring a one-of-a-kind-experience to guests. • Grapevine buzzedbullcreamery.com $ L D

j Alli’s Sweet Shop • Delicious cake pops for any event, celebration or just because! They deliver your bouquet just like a florist and brighten the day of any recipient! Cookies, cakes, cupcakes, treats. • Southlake cakepopsbyalli.com $ L D

Creative Memories Bakery • Cupcakes, smash cakes, wedding, birthday, graduation, shower, gender reveal and baby shower cakes, petit fours, cookies, brownies, cake balls/pops, ding dongs. • Fort Worth yourcakeplace.com $-$$

Crumbl Cookies • Giant cookies delivered! Chocolate chip, chilled sugar cookie and rotating flavors like key lime pie, salted caramel cheesecake, birthday cake or German chocolate. Open ‘til midnight! • Southlake crumblcookies.com $

DessertsRx Organic Café • High quality, organic, nonGMO, real food and drinks offered with the knowledge to empower you to make informed decisions when it comes to what goes into your body. • Colleyville dessertsrx.com $ B L D

Doughlicious • Offering scoops of raw, safe-to-eat dough in chocolate chip, snickerdoodle, sugar cookie, banana pudding and s’mores. Grab a multi-pack of mini scoops to share. • Grapevine doughlicioususa.com $

Dr. Sue’s Chocolate • Doctor by trade, master chocolatier at heart, Dr. Sue Williams crafts the finest chocolate specimens you’ve ever had. Delightful creations like chocolate bark, truffles, and chocolate bars. • Grapevine drsueschocolate.com $

Elegant Cakery • Beautiful designs that make magnificent centerpieces for any occasion—and the taste makes them unforgettable. Cupcakes, birthday and wedding cakes—made with quality ingredients. • Southlake elegantcakery.com $-$$

Hey Sugar Candy Shop • Bulk candies and popcorn, syrups and flavorings from an old-fashioned soda fountain. Chocolates by Nib Chocolates. Ice cream made in a machine from the 1920s. • Roanoke heysugarcandy.com $-$$

JudyPie • Time-tested recipes, anchored by shortbread crust, elevate flavors like apple, pecan, buttermilk, banana cream into their best versions. By the slice or whole (large or small rounds). Gluten free, vegan, paleo. • Grapevine judypie.com $ L D

Juice Junkies • No need to be a health nut to appreciate juice blends, smoothies, whole food snacks and cold-brewed coffee drinks, but they just might convert you. Cold-pressed. Restocked regularly. • Keller juicejunkies.com $ B L

Kindred Coffee Co. • A love for craft coffee and local community—they find the best coffee and roast it at their shop. Stop by for a cup, fresh salad, gelato or one of their pastries.• North Richland Hills kindredcoffeeco.com $ B L D

‘Lette Macarons • Elegant French sandwich cookies readymade for gifting. Endlessly customizable. Offers a selection of fine shortbread cookies and will soon offer macaron ice cream sandwiches. • Southlake lettemacaron.com $

Native Coffee + Kitchen • Refreshing, independent voice serving unapologetic interpretations of comfort food favs—pancakes, tacos, burgers and nachos—alongside coffee made with Texas-roasted bean. nativeck.com $ B L D

Nothing Bundt Cakes • Made fresh daily using eggs, butter and cream cheese. Bite-sized Bundtinis, single serving Bundtlets, 8” and 10” cakes and double-tiered cakes. Daily samples show how yummy it is! • Southlake nothingbundtcakes.com $

Redefined Coffee House • Locals gather for birthdays, meetings, and conversation—and everyone sips macchiatos and iced lattes made with Avoca coffee beans. • Grapevine redefinedcoffeehouse.com $ B L D

Texas Harvest Pie Co. • Small pie shop feels like home. Lovingly crafted pies like apple, blueberry, buttermilk, key lime taste like grandmas if she’s an expert baker. Serving lunch. • Keller facebook.com/texasharvestpiecompany $-$$

The Garden Party • It’s party time—experience North Richland Hills’ newest tearoom, located in Golightly’s Antiques. Stop by and enjoy fresh tea, food and treats. They look forward to serving you! • NRH & Grapevine thegarden-party.com $ L

BARBECUE ........................................................

Back Forty Smokehouse • Brisket, ribs, full bar, outdoor patio, friendly service, locally owned—should we keep going. Back Forty is conveniently located next to the new Tex Rail train station. • NRH backfortysmokehouse.com $-$$ L D

Feedstore BBQ • Local fav with quality meats and the freshest veggies available. Ridiculously good chopped beef, chicken, sausage and fall-off-the-bone ribs, fried okra, spicy beans and amazing rolls. • NRH feedstorebbq.com $-$$ L D R

Hard Eight Pit BBQ • Authentic mesquite barbecue. Award winning cuisine. “Old World” slow cooking over pits adopted from German settlers who came to the Texas Hill Country long ago. • Roanoke hardeightbbq.com $-$$ L D R

Meat U Anywhere BBQ • “Meating” your BBQ and catering needs. Slow smoked with seasoned oak and hickory. Exclusive sides, special offerings, ultimate breakfast tacos • Grapevine and Trophy Club meatuanywhere.com $-$$ B L D R

Red Barn Bar-B-Que • Best all you can eat catfish on Friday nights, and sausage and turkey around town. Rustic counter service with generous plates and comfort grub in. • Colleyville redbarnbarbque.com $-$$ L D

BREAKFAST (+ lunch/dinner) .............................

Another Broken Egg Cafe • Twists on Eggs Benedict and Omelettes, Biscuit Beignets, Cinnamon Roll French Toast and much more. Brunch is the most important meal of the week! • Southlake anotherbrokenegg.com $-$$ B (Brunch) L

Bacon’s Bistro & Cafe • Breakfast diner with really good service, food and company—sandwiches, soups and salads for lunch. It’s common to have a wait on weekends because it’s just that darn good! • Hurst baconsbistroandcafe.com $$ B L

Black Walnut Cafe • Classic fare, upscale flair. Handcrafted sandwiches to chilled local craft brews to swirly rows of gelato. Open for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner every day of the week. • Colleyville blackwalnutcafe.com $-$$ B L D

DeVivo Bros. Eatery • Rustic comfort food on Americanized menu with Italian flair. Bold flavor, large portions, meatloaf, pastas, sandwiches with rustic simplicity and refined elegance. • Keller devivobroseatery.com $-$$ B L D

Kassandra’s Mexican Kitchen • Hidden gem. Great lunch with well-priced specials. Tortillas live up to the name. Put it on your list for breakfast, served all day. Breakfast quesadilla, beans and potatoes—a good reason to get up early! • Keller $ B L D

Main Street Bistro & Bakery (Bistro M) • Local gem with foodie following (and a Gallic accent). Best croissants. Chocolate bomb cake that makes your toes curl. Must-try are their pastries and desserts • Grapevine themainbakery.com $$ B L D

Mangos Breakfast Brunch • French toast, chicken, waffles, omelets. Taking shots at convention with duck bacon burgers, s’mores waffles, skillets with chicken fried steak, stuffed avocados. • Southlake, Keller mangosbb.com $$ B (Brunch) L

Oldwest Cafe • Big menu, big portions, good value. Saddle up that horse and hit the trail for Oldwest Cafe... pretty darn sure ya’ might like it! Breakfast served all day long (or until we go home for the day)! • Grapevine oldwestcafe.us $ B L

Rush Bowls • Smoothies in a bowl with fruit and toppings. Featuring all-natural fruit and açai blended until thick and creamy, these are a healthy alternative dessert or a perfect meal. Perfect refueling stop. • Keller rushbowls.com $ B L D

Seven Mile Café • Fans flock for specialty pancakes, Gouda grits, egg dishes and Stumptown coffee. You cannot go wrong with benedicts or the pancake sampler. Vegan and gluten-free options. sevenmilecafe.com $-$$ B (Brunch) L

Stevie’s Diner • A unique, family-owned and operated throwback dining experience. Whether you’re in the mood for a delicious breakfast or lunch, head over to Stevie’s Diner. • North Fort Worth steviesdiner.com $ B L

Starwood Cafe • Specializing in breakfast and lunch at eight locations around DFW, and serving breakfast all day—this is your new brunch destination. Vast menu serving all your favs. • Trophy Club, NRH starwoodcafe.com $-$$ B L

Sunny Street Café • Serving hearty American fare—with gluten-free options. Dinein or carry-out, this is your neighborhood destination for fresh, wholesome food and friendly service served daily. • Roanoke sunnystreetcafe.com $-$$ B L

Toasted Yolk • Perfectly poached eggs, strip after strip of crunchy bacon, layer upon layer of turkey and pastrami—these are delicacies we dream about at night, and they’re the ones we want to wake up to! • Keller thetoastedyolk.com $-$$ B L

Townhouse Brunch • Twists on omelettes, benedicts, pancakes, salads, sandwiches. Lean sweet (banana Nutella crepes) or savory (“everything spiced” avocado toast), your cravings is covered. • Colleyville townhousebrunch.com $$ B (Brunch) L

BRITISH

From Across the Pond • Get your British classics—fish and chips, bangers and mash, shepherd’s pie and more—plus, burgers, sandwiches, pastas and salads from beyond the pond. • Colleyville acrossthepond.site $ L D

The Londoner Pub and Grill • Pub turning out English classics like fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, and bangers and mash with confidence. Their decor screams typical English pub. • Colleyville thelondonerpub.com $$ L D

BURGERS / SANDWICHES .............................................................

Bottlecap Alley Icehouse Grill • 100% Fresh Angus Beef, name brand quality meats, whole veggies chopped in-house daily and local artisan buns. A place where kids and adults co-mingle successfully. • Grapevine bottlecapalley.com $ L D

Chick & Biscuit • Southern food done right! Home-style comfort food—from spicy hot chicken to pulled pork, brisket, and sausage gravy, the menu honors the South. Inside Harvest Hall. • Grapevine chickandbiscuit.com $$ L D

Fred’s Texas Cafe • Nationally acclaimed hamburgers, fabulous chicken-fried steak, the coldest beer in town—that’s Fred’s—a beloved local dive that’s serious about food! • TCU, Fort Worth, NFW fredstexascafe.com $-$$ L D

Kincaid’s Hamburgers • Where friends meet to eat! Hype-free, good-old-burgers, ice cream shakes, deviled eggs, stuffed jalepenos, fried okra, chicken sandwiches, banana pudding. • Southlake and Alliance kincaidshamburgers.com $ L D

LA Burger • Beautifully seared meat, thoughtful layering, oozy cheese and toasty buns—burgers solidly executed with California flair. Tacos, fries, hot dogs, salads and shakes served counter-style, but all with a fresh multi-culti twist. • Keller la-burger.com $ L D

Mighty Chick • Reinvigorating fried chicken with bold flavor and big crunch. Wings, pieces, tenders with sauce like BBQ Soy Garlic or Hot and Spicy Seoul Nashville-style hot chicken. • Watauga mightychickdfw.com $-$$ L D

Old Town Ice House • Burgers, po-boys, wings, tacos, salads, artisan brews—celebrating the ice industry in its heyday, as well as the founding of Keller during that era. Raise an ice-cold glass with us! • Keller oldtownicehouse.com $ L D

The Pour Shack • Comes alive as the sun sets! Cover bands and DJs pump up the scene and the music at this big indoor/outdoor bar serving up burgers and drink specials. Your neighborhood bar. • Keller thepourshack.com $-$$ L D

The Station Patio Icehouse • Gathering place to enjoy good food, good drinks and good music. It’s everything you’d want your own backyard to be, with all the people you love and none of the work! • Keller stationicehouse.com $$ L D

CAJUN

Bayou Jack’s Cajun Grill • Part soulfuajun, part vibrant cocktails, two parts bon temps Jambalaya, po boys, grilled oysters, étouffée. Drink swamp juice, Hurricane Kris and Abita on tap. • Roanoke bayoujackscajungrill.com $-$$ L D

Copeland’s • Authentic taste of the Big Easy adjacent to the Hilton Southlake lobby. Soul satisfying eggplant pirogue and mind-blowing bananas foster French toast. • (In the Hilton Hotel) Southlake copelandsofneworleans.com $-$$ B L D

The Lost Cajun • Real and authentic Cajun food from the gumbo and jambalaya to the fried seafood—it’s like you’re in Louisiana! Awesome frozen drinks and food you can taste! • Keller thelostcajun.com $-$$ L D

GREEK

Café Medi • Devoted fans—they give as much attention to vegetarian dishes as their succulent grilled and braised meats. BYOB. Salads, hummus, falafel and fool. Their lamb shanks really shine. • Keller and Hurst cafemedi.com $-$$ L D R

INDIAN

F2 Fusion Flavors

F2 combines the sensibilities of the Middle East with Asia, offering Indian flavored Kebabs, lamb and even goat dishes for a global tour of cuisines and cultures. Daily buffet. • Southlake fusionflavors.site $-$$ L D

Mughlai Fine Indian Cuisine • Courtly cuisine of Mughal royalty—familiar dishes like lamb roghan josh and chicken tikka masala served alongside more obscure dishes from authentic Indian street fare.

• Southlake mughlaidfw.com $$ L D

ITALIAN / PIZZA ..............................................

Armend’s Restaurante • Laid-back, family friendly pizza place reminiscent of Naples. Plenty of hearty Northern Italian favorites with great prices and friendly, family-owned service. • Southlake armendspizza.com $ L D

Bosses • Brick oven pizza using the finest cheese and meats— and freshest veggies. They set out to make the best pizza in town and some say it’s “The Best Darn Pizza in Texas.” • Lake Worth, NRH, North Fort Worth bossespizza.com $ L D

Brio Tuscan Grille • Buzzing from the shaded outdoor patio to the courtyard bar. Upscale enough for the date-night crowd, but casual enough for locals wandering in from their shopping. • Southlake Town Square brioitalian.com $-$$ L D R

Calabrese Ristorante and Bar • Authentic Italian fare with ingredients imported from Italy—modern and traditional Italian dishes to please every palate. Wine list as seductive as the atmosphere. • Southlake ilcalabrese.com $$ L D

Coal Vines • Pizza wine bar separating good pizza from great—a perfect crunch and just a speckling of char. This pie was made for good vino. Fortunately, they have plenty of that on hand as well! • Southlake coalvinespizza.com $ D R

Delucca Gaucho Pizza & Wine • Slice-after-slice of gourmet pizza—garlic picanha, shrimp and fontina, Turkish lamb— along with cheese or pepperoni—brought to your table oven hot. All you can eat perfection! delucca.com $$ D

Farina’s Winery & Café • Elegant but unassuming with solid food and wine to back up the atmosphere. Italian classics headlined by popular pizzas, are Farina family recipes. • Grapevine farinaswinery.com $-$$ L D

Ferrari’s Italian Villa & Chop House • Beautiful banquet and private dining. Bountiful antipasti bar. The roasted entrées from the wood fired oven are standouts. Desserts prepared tableside. • Grapevine ferrarisrestaurant.com $$ L D

Fireside Pies • Swanky pizza served in a casual environment. Who knew my favorite veggie pie (Peta Pie) would come from the same place as my favorite meaty pie (Triple ‘Roni)? • Grapevine firesidepies.com $ L D

Grimaldi’s Pizzeria • Brooklyn’s iconic pizza has now arrived—crust is perfectly thin and crisp and cheese and toppings first-rate. Brooklyn charm here to go with some excellent pizza. • Grapevine grimaldispizzeria.com $ L D

i Fratelli Pizza • Distinctive thin-n-crispy pizza, handmade sauces, dressings, dessert—favs for 30 years. Delivery committed to exceeding expectations with their exemplary service and fast delivery. • Southlake, Keller, NFW ifratelli.net $-$$ L D

Stellini Trattoria • Shareable arancini (crisp risotto balls) or taglieri (meat & cheese board). Housemade pastas and pizzas. Steaks and chops with polenta, gnocchi and potatoes. Creative cocktails. • Grapevine stellinitrattoria.com $$ L D

Vinny’s Italian Restaurant • Good food, great people. Like being invited to your Italian uncle’s house for dinner— serving authentic New York style pizza and Italian classics. • Roanoke vinnysrest.com $ L D

Wise Guys Pizzeria • Exceeding expectations and providing Fresh food, family hospitality, hard work, and a hands on approach to pizzas, pastas, premium drafts—all made from scratch. • Roanoke & Grapevine wiseguystx.com $$ L D

Zeppole • Refined pasta dishes, seafood and soulful renditions of Italian specialties showcased in an open setting that feels like your favorite outdoor patio. • Located inside the Gaylord Texan Resort Atrium gaylordtexan.com $$$ D

LATIN AMERICAN .............................................

Boca 31 • Drawing from Mexico, Peru, Caribbean, Americas— elevating street food with creative flare—barbacoa tacos to pulled pork to guava and cream cheese empanadas, the menu is anything but standadr. • Keller boca31.com/keller $ L D

Del Campo Empanadas • Empanadas with savories like chicken, ham, spinach, picanha steak. Dipped in chimichurri it’s a no-fuss meal or grab-and-go snack. Pick up sweet treats here also. • Fort Worth delcampoempanadas.com $ L D

Gloria’s • Fine Latin cuisine that hints at humble mom and pop roots. Sleek design draws crowds as much for their pupusas and margaritas as for the weekend salsa dancing. • Colleyville and Southlake gloriasrestaurants.com $-$$ L D R

MEXICAN ...........................................................

Baja Cantina • Coastal Mexican with seafood and amazing steaks. Fajitas are a fav, also fish tacos, spinach queso, frozen margaritas that make you swear you’re on vacation! • Watauga, NRH, Roanoke, Keller bajagrilldfw.com $-$$ L D R

Cristina’s Fine Mexican • Lively setting, unique menu with Tex-Mex favorites, as well as unique central Mexican dishes. Must-have margaritas. • NRH, Trophy Club, Southlake, Flower Mound and Lewisville cristinasmex.com $ L D R

Elote Mexican Kitchen • Little taqueria with style. Slow roasted meats, fresh ingredients, marvelous margaritas. Entire menu is gluten free (except flour tortillas). Plus soy cheese and tofu sour cream. • North Fort Worth elotemex.com $ B L D

Enchiladas Olé • Specializing in enchiladas filled with chicken, cheese, veggies or beef, then topped with Perez’s famed sauces from a classic ancho chili to a rich queso. Tamales and happy hours. • NRH enchiladasole.com $-$$ L D

Esparza’s Restaurante Mexicano • Possibly the coolest patio scene in the area. Feast on Mexican classics, but don’t miss out on their famous margaritas, fajitas or their authentic Mexican favorites. • Grapevine esparzastexas.com $ L D R

j Jonny’s Pizza

• At Jonny's Pizza, they only use the freshest ingredients in their New York-style hand-tossed pizzas. All of their tasty Italian cuisine and other dishes are made in-house as well. • Fort Worth jonnyspizzany.com $ L D

Fresco’s • Vibrant joint serving traditional Mexican dishes and Tex-Mex using quality ingredients. Unmistakable flavor and freshness, and awesome margaritas. Fair prices. • Watauga frescosmexicanfood.com $ L D

Inzo Italian Kitchen

• Old-world menu with a new-world accent. Using fresh ingredients and doing things the way Nonna did years ago. One taste is all it takes to be amazed. Buon appetito! • Roanoke inzoitalian.com $-$$ L D R

Los Molcajetes • Start with warm tortilla chips and red or green salsa. Enjoy a margarita and a sizzling plate of fajitas, top it off with sopapillas, flan or fried ice cream—the ultimate Mexican comfort food! • Roanoke losmolcajetes.com $ L D

• Emilia-Romagna is Italy’s premier destination for food lovers—premium pastas, cured meats, cheeses, wines, meatballs, lasagna, eggplant parm perfected centuries before landing right here.

Loveria Caffe

• Colleyville loveriacaffe.com $$ L D

Manny’s Uptown Tex-Mex • Dragon-ritas, brisket tacos, signature queso, fajitas and enchiladas—perfect with a Manny’s Taxi. Weekend breakfast is a fav, happy hours and catering.• Southlake mannysuptowntexmex.com $$ B L D

Napoli’s Italian Café & Creamery

• Italian-America classics in cozy historic Grapevine Main Stree setting. Linger in or drop by the creamery for freshly made gelato and Italian desserts. • Grapevine napolisgrapevine.com $-$ L D

Martha’s Mexican Cocina • Reliable Tex-Mex in a relaxed, setting with a great patio. Try brisket tacos and pollo poblano. Vegetarian options with daily specials and happy hour. • Keller marthasmexicancocina.com $ L D R

Oliva Italian Eatery

• Italian staples rendered with verve— spaghetti and meatballs, lobster ravioli, anticipated featured items. Expertly curated wines at a remarkable value. Popular wine dinners. • North Fort Worth olivaeatery.com $$ L D

Palio’s Pizza Cafe • Food tastes better, and they swear it’s better for you with fresh ingredients made-from-scratch. Pizzas with pesto, artichoke hearts, chicken and mushrooms. • Keller, Colleyville, Grapevine paliospizzacafe.com $ L D R

Mesa • Elevated coastal cuisine in a bright, elegant restaurant to match its vibrant, upscale menu. A magic touch with seafood, including lobster enchiladas, Mexican gumbo and chipotle shrimp. • Grapevine mesagrapevine.com $$-$$ D R

Mesero • Beyond Tex Mex, but lives up to its promise of Mexican Spirit American Life. One taste of the iconic Queso Mesero and brisket tacos will keep you coming back... don’t skip their amazing drinks! • Southlake mesero.net $$-$$ L D

Mi Cocina • The original see-and-be-seen spot is still a crowd favorite. A sleek but festive interior draws locals for “modern” enchiladas and first-rate Tex-Mex. • Southlake and Alliance mcrowd.com $-$$ L D R

Mi Dia From Scratch • Traditional Mexico City recipes with modern Santa Fe and Tex Mex flavors. Experience a true fusion of the past and present. • Grapevine, Plano, Flower Mound midiafromscratch.com $-$$ L D

So-Cal Tacos • Former food truck is now a great taco joint with the same delicious food and laid back vibe. The truck, Woody, paved the way for fresh tacos, delicious margarita, and ice cold beer. • Grapevine eatsocaltacos.com $ L D

SEAFOOD ......................................................................................

Big Fish Seafood • Fresh seafood, including lots of Cajun options, plus great drink specials and frequent live music in a rustic and relaxed setting. Known for treating all guests like family. • Grapevine bigfishgrapevine.com $-$$ L D

Bonefish Grill • A menu full of fresh flavors of the season and innovative dishes— specializing in seasonal fresh fish. Taste today’s freshest catch and try something new on each visit. • Southlake bonefishgrill.com $$-$$$ L (sat-sun) D (daily)

The Crab Station • Promises the best seafood in a family oriented experience. Have fun cracking and peeling with your hands—getting messy while you’re at it! Entrees, wings, kettles, shareables, peel-n-eat • NFW crab-station.com $-$$ L D

Fish City Grill • Menu of crawfish, Gulf and east coast oysters, and other fresh seafood selections. Favs like fish tacos, Gulf shrimp, renowned oyster nachos. Chalkboard specials are a great deal. • Southlake fishcitygrill.com $-$$ L D R

Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen • From the warm waters of the Gulf, the icy Alaskan coast, the mighty Atlantic and Pacific, they go to any depth to bring you the finest seafood available—all year long. • Grapevine pappadeaux.com $$-$$$ L D

Rockfish • Local favorites like the shrimp basket, fish tacos, wild copper river alaskan salmon, rock-a-rita margarita, schooners, and Mexican shrimp martinis. Great seafood— not a lot of clams. • Southlake rockfish.com $-$$ L D

Shuck Me • Seafood spot with bountiful fried baskets, peel-and-eat shrimp, crawfish, oysters, po-boys, gumbo. Big portions. Plenty to choose from—perfect seafood fix without breaking the bank. • Southlake and Alliance shuckme.net $-$$ L D

The Blu Crab Seafood House and Bar • Inspired by travel and culture—offers vast menu of culinary delights using the freshest ingredients. Come in to and celebrate your senses! • Colleyville blucrabseafoodhouse.com $$-$$$ L D

Truluck’s Seafood, Steak & Crab House • Iconic for stone crab claws—beloved for freshness! Chic dining room hosts sophisticated dinners with inventive foodie twists served in the mix. • Southlake Town Square trulucks.com $$-$$$ L D

STEAKS

Bob’s Steak and Chop House • Bob’s is ranked as one of the top steakhouses in the country—and for good reason. The steaks are prime, the portions are big and the drinks are stiff. • Grapevine bobs-steakandchop.com $$$ L D

The Classic at Roanoke • Unlikely fine dining destination. Nicely focused menu serving grilled steaks and seafood. World-class food, casual atmosphere, family friendly environment. A true classic. • Roanoke theclassiccafe.com $-$$ L D R

Del Frisco’s Grille • Spend the day shopping the square before meeting for dinner and drinks. Luxurious dining room or patio. Local flavor—diverse menu has something for everyone. • Southlake delfriscosgrille.com $$-$$$ (Brunch) L D

Dino’s Steak & Claw House • Serving a variety of seafood, steak and poultry dishes in a vintage bank building along historic Main Street. This romantic spot also offers live piano music. • Grapevine dinossteakandclaw.net $$-$$$ D

Kirby’s Prime Steakhouse • Prime aged beef, the freshest seafood and uncomplicated sides. No wonder it’s a favorite for impressing out-of-towners—their kitchen rarely (if ever) gets it wrong. • Southlake kirbyssteakhouse.com $$-$$$ L D

Mac’s on Main • Southwestern, cajun and global influences. Steaks, signature prime rib and seafood. Cocktails, beer, 30+ single malt scotches, wine list. Locally owned and operated, one-of-a-kind. • Grapevine macsteak.com $$ (Brunch) L D

Old Hickory Steakhouse • Savor premium Black Angus Beef seared to perfection, sample artisanal cheeses from around the world, indulge in the Texas inspired wine cellar. Inside Gaylord Texan gaylordtexan.com $$-$$$ D

Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille • Vibrant twist on traditional steakhouse fare with unexpected specialties. Bar 79 offers handcrafted bites, fine wine, cocktails, beer, live music and patio seating. • Grapevine perryssteakhouse.com $$-$$$ D

Keller Chophouse

• Signature dishes like fried calamari with tomato risotto, sides of truffle Parmesan fries, a roster of seafood, chicken and steaks (New York strip, bone-in ribeye, and filet mignon). • Keller kellerchophouse.com $$-$$$ D

Winewood • American fare with modern flair: Waldorf salads, Dagwood club, Niman Ranch pork chops and chicken Cordon Bleu. Ideal for family meals, business lunches or celebrations. • Grapevine thewinewood.com $$ L D

Send us your favorite local dining spots. Please email your crave-worthy local dining destinations to us here at: societylifemag@verizon.net

NYE countdown

RoseTableRecipes

BY THEROSETABLE.COM | KATIE-ROSE WATSON

COCOA POWDER CLOCKS

I wanted to serve this dessert with a clock that I tested thinking, there’s no way this will work — and I was thrilled when it did. Not only did it work, it worked incredibly well! I worried that the cocoa powder would blow everywhere and wouldn’t make it to the table, but I actually held a plate sideways and shook it and the cocoa powder stayed up. You really don’t get any sturdier than that! It turns out that cocoa powder is considerably heavier than, say, powdered sugar, and I had nothing to worry about. Here’s how to do it.

(1) All you need for this is a clock stencil,cocoa powder, and a small sieve. Set clock stencil in the center of a dessert plate.

(2) Spoon cocoa powder into a small sieve. Hover sieve about 8 inches or so above the dessert plate and gently tap the sieve to sprinkle cocoa powder over the stencil. Go around the outer edges in a circle to get every number. Once around is plenty — too little cocoa powder looks better than too much!

(3) Gently lift up the stencil and voila — a cocoa powder clock! Perfect for serving a New Year’s Eve dessert.

(4) Set your main dssert in the center and you’ve got a clever way to ring in the new year.

WhereLocalsGo

PHOTOS BY LORRAINE HAAN-STEWART REVIEW BY JENNIFER SLOAN

JONNY’S PIZZA

It would seem as though the more technology propels us forward, the more hurried the world becomes. Before we finish one thing we’re onto, or thinking about, what comes next. Christmas isn’t even over yet and many stores have already placed the mangers on clearance and made way for cupid. I have noticed this mentality has bled over into the restaurant business—and I’m not a fan. You make a reservation online, and after clicking ok, you’re cautioned that you will be limited to an hour and a half for your reservation. About 6 months ago, on a birthday evening out with friends with plenty of $15 cocktails and Wagyu steaks racking up our bill, we were told it was time to vacate our table. We’d been there an hour and thirty-five minutes and we had every intention of ordering cake. This is not an isolated incident and happened again three months later at a different restaurant.

What has happened to savoring the meals we spend our hard-earned dollars on? Since when is an hour and a half enough time to have three courses and catch up with friends? I miss the days of lingering just a little bit longer over one more drink or a cup of coffee to give the meal closure. Recently, I had lunch

with a friend at Jonny’s Pizza and I felt those “feels” of more casual days. I looked around and saw people posted up in their booths— lounging even—chatting away with friends, holding giant slices of folded pizza. It was like being able to look at a moment in time. I knew right then that this would be my haunt for meaningful conversations over old world comfort food.

Jonny’s Pizza has been in business since November 2019, when they opened their first location in Aubrey. The local community instantly saw Jonny’s as something special and a Fort Worth location opened in August 2021 with Frisco following in May of this year. Jonny’s is the pizza brainchild of Dumitru Maracine and Jonny Lami—the Jonny.

Dumitru owns and runs a tax prep and immigration services business called Winning Strategies and Jonny was a long-time client. Jonny had been in the Pizzeria business for 20 years as a cook and manager, getting his start in New York working alongside his grandfather. Jonny immigrated from Albania to New York in his teens and later moved to Texas.

He came to Dumitru about starting his own Pizzeria and asked if he wanted to be a partner. Dumitru didn’t hesitate and the rest is history. Jonny currently operates both the Aubrey and Frisco locations and Dumitru’s daughter Dana operates the Fort Worth location.

“What sets Jonny’s apart from other pizza places is that, first and foremost, we use fresh ingredients and we make most everything from scratch,” says Dana. “The dough we make from scratch with quality ingredients, which we cold proof, hand stretch and bake in brick ovens.” This is a difference you can truly taste. It gives the pizza that distinctive crisp yet chewy texture that is authentic New York style. At first bite, I was transported back to a visit to New York City where I stood at a cocktail table in a crowded Ray’s eating a folded cheese slice. “We make all of our sauces from scratch, as well, from the alfredo, to the pizza sauce and marinara, which are two distinctive flavors,” shares Dana. That’s right—they aren’t cutting corners by slingin’ the same sauce with their spaghetti and pizza. At Jonny’s, no shortcuts are taken. Their wings are fresh, never frozen and carefully hand-breaded. Even their spaghetti, fettuccine and penne pasta noodles are homemade. If you’re struggling to decide between all the comforting go-to classics, my “must have” is the Fettuccine Alfredo. It’s available with chicken,

shrimp or “as is.” I can tell you with absolute certainty, hands down, it is the best Fettucine Alfredo I’ve found in my entire career as a food writer. While many versions come across flour-heavy and dense, this one is fresh cream forward. Accompanied with the fresh, tender noodles—it’s filling but won’t weigh you down.

The centerpiece of the restaurant is the sleek and modern beer and wine bar, featuring popular draft beers and select wines from California and Italy. For 2023, Jonny’s is bringing live musical acts into the mix to give guests even more excuse to hang out and enjoy food, friends and family. Looking for a place to watch your next big game? With eight big screen TVs featuring current sporting events at all times, you won’t miss a minute of the action. And if you’re looking for a family-friendly spot to spend New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day, Jonny’s Pizza Fort Worth will be open for dinner for both from 4-9 p.m. You’ll thank me!