March 2024

EditorTalk SL

SPRING FORWARD

“A flower does not think about competing with the flower next to it. It just blooms.”

Just when I get my family into a good routine and everyone on a healthy sleep schedule... it happens again. Let me be clear, I Loathe Daylight Savings Time! There’s an annual discussion in the media about putting a stop to it and just keeping the routine all year round—which frankly sounds like heaven to me. But, each and every year, we ‘Fall Back’ and then ‘Spring Forward.’ Most Americans set their clocks forward one hour in March for daylight saving time and back again one hour in November—part of the twice-yearly time shift that has been happening since the 1960s. I know they say that springing forward is much easier on families than falling back, but no matter what the time shift is it still seems to upset the fragile balance I have worked hard to maintain with my kids and their sleep routines.

ELENA ELLIS

Publisher / Editorial Director

So, how do we spring forward with grace? When it comes to seasons, spring is at the top of my list. All the flowers blooming, the weather warming up (but not too much), and a fresh start after a cold winter. Spring is a time for renewal, a time to clear out the old and think about trying something new. It’s the perfect time of year to configure our mindset for what’s next... for forward-thinking. It’s the perfect time to start anew and try to do it better.

On the cover of our 18th annual Spring Home issue is Susan Semmelmann, the owner and founder of Semmelmann Interiors. She’s been featured on our cover several times before showcasing her gorgeous interior design projects, but in this issue we are talking about inspiration. Semmelmann Interiors has started the Fort Worth Design Studio as an extension of her brand. It’s a special place to hone in on what you want your space to be—the style,the décor, the colors, the furniture, the fabrics. So much to decide on... it can be overwhelming, while also exciting. A fresh start. A chance to take your space and have it ’spring forward’ to reflect who you are today and how you want to live now. Fort Worth Design Studio helps you define your style so your home can be a true reflection of you. A place where you fell free to bloom and grow— there really is no place like home (no matter how many times I have to change those clocks).

elena@societylifemagazine.com

let’s get social @ SocietyLifeMag

BY ELENA ELLIS

season for color

Nothing says spring like the gorgeous colors found only at XAR Clothier. From Easter Sunday to the Kentucky Derby, spring fashion means color. My friend and XAR’s owner Roy Rizwan carefully curates trends for each season with the sharpest styles for men and women.

THINGS SPRING COLOR

GOOD READS

nubby’s story

Anyone who knows me is aware of my passion for boxers— especially rescues. I came across this cute and inspiring book at my daughter’s elementary school book fair. I read it to her, but I think I enjoyed it even more than she did! I have raised several deaf white boxers and I currently have a 3-legged white male boxer named Coco. Both of his hind legs did not work at birth and his super-foster (AKA Lorraine Haan Stewart one of Society Life’s talented photographers) worked with him doing water therapy and by some miracle one leg started working! He is my daily inspiration, so when I read about Nubby being born without front legs I just had to hear about how this little miracle boxer beat all the odds.

IL

tired eye serum

Let’s be honest... the first area that gives away our age it is the eyes. I love the L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Hyaluronic Acid Caffeine Serum Triple Roller applicator with three cooling, stainless steel balls that truly leaves my eyes refreshed.

egg-cellent

I am obsessed with my pair of hanging egg chairs we added to our covered patio. It’s my favorite place for talks with my daughter and watching the kids jump on the trampoline. It has a hammock-like feel when I sit in one and prop my feet up in the other. There are so many styles and a price range to fit any budget.

VE in this season PATIO

FLIP TO PAGE 50 FOR THE BEST PLACES TO SPOT BLUEBONNETS

COMFORT

dead elmo slides

This happened purely by accident and for the record I have nothing against Elmo. When my youngest twin son outgrew his knockoff Elmo Yeezy Slides (which he had never worn by the way), I tried them on and they fit. I was shocked at just how comfy they were and I Iiterally wear them everyday now. They come in a bunch of kitschy themes like Spongebob and Elmo, but they have beautiful solid colors, too. The Candy Slides are soft, thick, comfortable and relieve your foot and joint pain.

FaithFull SL

STRENGTHEN YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD AND LIVE A FULFILLING, FAITHFUL

CHRISTIAN LIFE

BY TRISHA MITCHELL

“For every house is built by someone, but the builder of all things is God.”

— Hebrews 3:4

Hebrews 3:4 is one of my favorite scriptures. It was carved into the foundation of every home I built (prior to the walls going up). Once the home was completed, it was also adorned somewhere on the sidewalk — a visible reminder that my house was built on the rock Jesus spoke about in Matthew 7:24. With new construction, it’s crucial that the foundation can withstand natural events, such as earthquakes, floods and wind. Likewise, our faith must be so deeply anchored in the Lord that no storm of life will ever be able to shake us (Psalms 62:6). As Believers, we must recognize the Lord as our refuge and invite Him into our home. This establishes our home as a safe dwelling place. In Matthew 7:24-27, we learn that wise builders not only hear the Words of God — they obey them. That if our homes are built on rock-solid foundations, God promises they will stand firm, even when the rain and floods come, and winds blow. This scripture proved itself true in 2005.

While living in Southeast Texas, my family and I (along with thousands of others) experienced one of the most intense hurricanes on record — her name was Rita. There was a mandatory evacuation for all residents, but as part of the medical emergency response, my husband was not allowed to leave. So, we hunkered down on the lowest floor of the hospital. It was a super quiet night. We didn’t hear anything on the inside. However, once we were cleared to exit the building the next morning, we witnessed Hurricane Rita’s catastrophic flooding and wind damage. The county was declared inhabitable due to the disruption in electric service, and we were ordered to leave the city. We decided to head to Houston for shelter. But before we left, we wanted to assess the possible damage to our home. As we drove through the inundated streets, we witnessed submerged vehicles, shattered homes, and obliterated buildings. The closer we got to our home, the more anxious we became. Would our home still be standing? Would it be destroyed? Grateful to God, we arrived to find our two-story home still standing just the way we left it. A testament that when we build a house that honors God, His eyes and heart will always be there, watching over it and intervening as an overseer (2 Chronicles 7:15-17).

I heard that there is an “eye of a hurricane”. Apparently, Hurricane Rita used hers to read the metal plate adhered near our doorbell. It said, “As for me and my household, we will serve the LORD” (Joshua 24:15), proving once again that it was God Who prevented the flood waters from getting close to our home and getting through the door (Psalm 91:10). At some point in our lives, we will all experience some type of storm — disturbances that will test the foundations of our heart. How we handle them is based on what we’ve built our beliefs on. When our hope is built on God, we know that He will not only “keep us from falling” (Jude 1:24), but He will also “calm the storm” (Psalms 107:29).

Some of us may be faced with storms that we’re unable to dodge. Whether those storms cause internal commotion or external catastrophes, God has the authority to take control of them all. Our job is to inspect the foundation of our homes and our hearts on a regular basis. We accomplish this by building our hope on the Word of God and learning to trust in Him with every aspect of our lives (Proverbs 3:5-6). Isaiah 59:19 promises that “When the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the LORD shall lift up a standard against him.” And that’s exactly what He did in 2005. The Holy Spirit made His presence known and held back the waters just as God had done in Exodus 14:21.

Spring is a wonderful time to do some spring cleaning and perform a personal assessment of your abode. It is my prayer that your home will pass “the inspection” and that the Holy Spirt will attach Himself to the walls of your home. And more importantly, to the walls of your heart! – Be blessed!

Building on a Firm Foundation

PUBLISHER / CREATIVE DIRECTOR

ELENA ELLIS 817.657.2948

ELENA@societylifemagazine.com

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DISTRIBUTION

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VERA CROSBY

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COLUMNISTS / WRITERS

FRANK GESLANI

SANDY LOWE

MARY MACDOWELL

TRISHA MITCHELL

JON SALINSKY

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INTERESTED IN FREELANCE OPPORTUNITIES?

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Cover2Cover SL

Adventures in Prayer

One of the best things about books is their ability to take us on a trip we would not otherwise experience. In Adventures in Prayer: A 40-Day Journey author Mary Jo Pierce invites us along on her journey closer to the heart of God through her devotion to prayer. Mary Jo starts the book with a short biography. At only a year old she participated in family prayers by repeating “buzza buzza buzza,” which is no doubt what prayer sounds like to toddlers. By the time she was two, she and her sister began praying together. She also describes the “dark night of the soul” she experienced in her 20s where she found herself with “questions with no answers and problems with no solutions. I felt disconnected from the God I had learned about as a child.”

The book’s simple structure makes it easier to absorb the deep concepts Mary Jo shares. Each chapter begins with Mary Jo’s message to the reader, often relating a personal experience that shaped her prayer life. She then moves on to “God’s Message to You,” scripture passages that relate to the chapter’s theme. In “Your Message to God” the reader has an opportunity to practice prayer. She recommends a prayer journal for recording thoughts about prayer, prayers themselves and answers received.

One of the concepts she emphasizes is a designated place to pray, a room or at least a chair from which you can launch your own prayer adventure. Mary Jo collects specific items that remind her of insights she’s gained and keeps them visible to encourage her own devotions. But this designated place is far from the only location Mary Jo uses for prayer. She suggests offering prayer for those in trouble when a siren blares. And she believes that one of the most powerful prayers is a simple loving hug.

This prayer guide leans heavily on scripture, both Old Testament and New Testament. Mary Jo says, “This Book [the Bible] plants, waters, and nurtures my prayer life” She recommends the Bible as a prayer guide and keeps numerous translations in her prayer room. While Mary Jo clearly finds great joy in her prayer life, she has also experienced what she calls the “silent seasons,” times when God does not seem to speak. Admitting to these difficult times gives this book a strong sense of the reality of the world we live in—and the times we all meet when we must continue to believe and listen.

Adventures in Prayer: A 40-Day Journey offers readers guidance for growth as an essential aspect of Christianity.

Take the journey. Start the adventure. Adventures in Prayer: A 40-Day Journey

40 inspiring stories offering guidance for growth as an essential aspect of Christianity.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Mary Jo Pierce is the pastor of prayer and intercession at Gateway Church headquartered in Southlake, Texas. She joined the staff in 2004 to inspire others in their personal prayer lives. Mary Jo and her husband, Bruce, live in Roanoke, Texas. You can purchase her book online at: Amazon.com

PHOTOGRAPHY ..................

Lorraine Haan-Stewart

PICTURED ....................... SUSAN SEMMELMANN

Fort Worth Design Studio & Semmelmann Interiors

FortWorthDesignStudio.com • 1 (888) SSI-FWDS

SemmelmanInteriors.com • (940) 577-1000

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A SMALL PART OF A BIGGER STORY

TidBits

THE GREAT GALA 2024

On Saturday, April 6th GCS Moms League will host their 2024 Gala. The beneficiary is Christ's Haven for Children, an organization striving to maintain a culture promoting normalcy, dignity and hope for all of the youth and families that they serve with their trauma-informed, family model of care. Join us for a magical night of opulent extravagance, shimmering with timeless allure, inspired by the splendor of Moulin Rouge. From the captivating performances to exclusive experiences, this year’s event promises glamour, community, and the joy of giving back. Seating is limited. Secure your spot now and be a part of this evening with a purpose! You are invited to be part of this unparalleled soirée. VIP Experience tickets are sold out, but you can still get individual tickets. Act now... before they’re gone!

ART IN THE SQUARE IS A COSMIC CANVAS RETURNING APRIL 26-28 IN SOUTHLAKE TOWN SQUARE

Art in the Square is a national award-winning festival with a ranking of #4 for 2024. The 24th Art in the Square lifts off with Methodist Southlake Medical Center as presenting sponsor. Come to Southlake Town Square on April 26-28 with family and friends for a fun-filled weekend of abundant art, music, tasty food, refreshing spirits and children’s activities. Southlake Women’s Club is showcasing the remarkable artwork of 150 juried renowned artists. Visit “Arts Alive,” Apex Arts League photo op stop for snap shots. Tour the Youth Art tent to view the exceptional artwork of the high school students of Northeast Tarrant County. New this year on May 2nd, Methodist Southlake is hosting a reception showcasing the Art in the Square Youth Art winners and outstanding young artists from surrounding school districts. The Vinyard on Grand in Le Bistro will be pouring specialty wines. Main Street Eatery will offer additional dining choices. The Main Stage hosts a playbill of free performances radiating energy from all genres throughout the weekend. Friday night, April 26 at 8:30pm Mike Barbee, a popular DJ in the area will engage and entertain the audience. Saturday, April 27 at 8:30pm. Free Fallin, Tom Petty Concert Experience electrifies the audience as they perform music of Tom Petty. Community stars from schools, performing art studios, dance groups and more will perform on the Texas Health Hospital Southlake Gazebo Stage. Kid’s Korner and The Zone will require tickets by credit card for each activity. Kids Korner sponsored by Cook Children’s offers numerous activities for creativity. The Zone creates laughable fun bouncing, climbing, jumping and sliding. Come be an Artwalker in the cosmic canvas at Art in the Square April 26-28—where you can experience art, entertainment and family fun all while helping 26 charities in our community.

gcsmomsleague.org/the-great-gala

SL TidBits

CAMP IS FOR EVERYONE ADVENTURE AWAITS AT CAMP Y

Everything is better at camp—from silly songs, slime, slip & slides, pools, paper mache, popsicles and Power Points to best friends, big laughs, even bigger challenges, team building and forging genuine connections—your journey to embracing growth and finding fun begins here. Camp at the Y is a time for kids to explore, discover and create in a place that encourages confidence and community. Whether you are interested in day camp, overnight camp, or one of their specialty camps, YMCA Camp Carter offers opportunities for kids to experience new hobbies, interests and adventures while learning what it means to be a good friend and leader. Each ultimate theme week, Traditional Day Campers will have an opportunity to choose their clinics for each activity period and they’ll get to experience all their camp favorites like the challenge course, canoeing, swimming, archery, fishing and more! Specialty Day Camp allows campers to focus their time on a singular area of interest and build rich skills in either Waterfront or in CLIMB programs. Overnight Camp provides opportunities for kids to experience new interests and to take appropriate risks while learning what it means to be a good friend and leader. Every child deserves the chance to explore, learn, and make friends in a safe and nurturing environment. Learn how you can build our community through a meaningful gift by donating to camp scholarships. Summer adventure is just a click away!

visit: ymcafw.org/camp

“ANGELS AMONG US” GALA COMING HOME TO GRAPEVINE CHAIRS FOR 2024 GRACE GALA ARE THERESA & JUSTIN MASON

The GRACE Gala is back home in Grapevine for its 21st year. This event is highly anticipated by the community, and it serves as GRACE’s largest annual fundraiser. All net proceeds fund programs and services for families and individuals in need who come to GRACE for help. The “angels among us” Gala will be on Saturday, November 2, 2024 at the Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center. This year’s chairs are Theresa and Justin Mason. “This year is going to be very special,” says Chief Executive Officer Rebecca Cox. “We are honored and excited to bring the GRACE Gala home to Grapevine. I am especially excited to be working with our 2024 Chairs, Theresa and Justin Mason.” Theresa and Justin Mason are no strangers to the Grapevine community as they have lived and worked in Grapevine since 2012. Theresa has always had an entrepreneurial spirit. She graduated from the University of Notre Dame in 2004 and has started, sold and continues to run multiple businesses including two painting companies, a nonprofit, a real estate business, music company and private Montessori style school. Justin Mason grew up listening to a variety of music genres but was always partial to country music. In 2013, he taught himself how to play guitar and put a band together. Over the last 10 years, he has released multiple albums, played many notable venues and enjoys singing and playing country music around the area.

The Masons began a real estate brokerage firm in 2012 and merged their company with Magnolia Realty, founded by Chip and Joanna Gaines, in 2022. In 2021, Justin and Theresa co-founded (along with another couple) a small private school in Grapevine and are in their third year of operation. Vine Academy: An Acton Affiliate is a Montessori style school, equipping young Learners to discover God’s calling for their lives that will change the world. The Masons are the proud parents of three amazing children ages 9, 7, and 6 are active in their church, St. Francis of Assisi Grapevine, and in the Grapevine community. Theresa served as the Chairwoman of the Board of Directors for the Grapevine Chamber of Commerce in 2018, served as an alternate member of the City of Grapevine’s Planning and Zoning Commission from 2013-2017, and is an active member of the Women’s Division of the Grapevine Chamber. Justin has had the opportunity to play multiple times at the Grapevine festivals, and has donated his time and talents at many charity events and GRACE fundraisers. “We feel blessed to live such a fulfilling life, “says Theresa Mason, GRACE Gala Co-Chair. “Both Justin and I love Grapevine and are longtime supporters of GRACE, volunteer as a family where we can, and are honored to be co-chairs of the 2024 GRACE Gala.”

Founded in 1987, GRACE began as a way to serve a fast-growing need for assistance in northeast Tarrant County. GRACE provides an array of programs to assist families and individuals in need of shelter, food, clothing, medical care, financial assistance, and much more.

gracegala.org | gracegrapevine.org | (817) 488-7009

SL TidBits

AN EVENT TO REMEMBER THE ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION

The Alzheimer’s Association Dallas and Northeast Texas Chapter is pleased to recognize Ken and Fay Moraif as the Honorary Chairs at the upcoming annual gala benefiting Alzheimer’s Association, An Event to Remember, on April 6, 2024. By serving as Honorary Chairs, the Moraifs wish to honor all those diligently serving in the capacity of caregivers, researchers and health care practitioners involved in the support of those who are suffering—and the tens of thousands of dedicated volunteers across the country who are engaged in the fight to end Alzheimer's. Alzheimer’s Association will honor Bronwen Zilmer with the George Heilmeier Achievement Award for her long-standing support and continued volunteerism, advocacy and caring for the AA mission. The award exemplifies an individual with outstanding civil and charitable responsibility—one whose life intersected with Alzheimer's and other related dementia. George Heilmeier’s life was characterized by his unwavering love for science, family and community. The gala will take place on April 6, 2024 at 6pm at the JW Marriott Dallas Arts District. Steve Eagar, KDFW FOX 4 evening news anchor, is returning as host and event emcee. Celebrating the 5th year in Dallas, this annual black-tie event benefits Alzheimer’s Association in the mission to lead the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia. The 2023 gala raised over $500,000 for Alzheimer’s education and research, and hopes to equal or better that this year. Sponsor, donate, register or learn more:

dallasalzhits5.givesmart.com

MEOW WOLF GRAPEVINE CELEBRATES COMMUNITY SPACE WITH THE OPENING OF THE NEW MATT KING MYSTERY CENTER

Meow Wolf Grapevine is thrilled to announce the grand opening of the Matt King Mystery Center, a multipurpose space designed for community programming and local events. Nestled within Meow Wolf Grapevine, the Matt King Mystery Center is a creative hub and private bookable venue where individuals can uncover their creativity and connect with others. This center is a testament to Meow Wolf's ongoing dedication to cultivating a vibrant artistic community and providing immersive spaces that captivate and inspire the North Texas area.

The Matt King Mystery Center is dedicated to the late Matt King, a visionary cofounder, artist, and wizard at the heart of Meow Wolf. As Senior Vice President of Creative Direction, King was a driving force and a lead artist across approximately 34 Meow Wolf projects around the U.S. A North Texas native, he was the first to wrangle over-filled trash cans, sweep dirty floors, organize tool boxes, and deliver motivational speeches to dozens of artists, citing that every job was equally important, no person on site was more crucial than the other, and every small piece counted towards the greater whole. Matt’s influence on the trajectory of Meow Wolf cannot be overstated. He was a compass. The Matt King Mystery Center is a creative haven within the exhibition, reflecting his profound impact on Meow Wolf and his love for teaching others the joy of art and collaboration. The name Mystery Center is an homage to his lifelong studies in philosophy, magic, esoteric religious traditions, mythology, and science fiction.

Shining in its versatility, Matt King Mystery Center is a workshop, community center, open studio, and private venue rolled into one place. A centerpiece within the learning center is the vibrant mural ‘We Are Home’ by Dallas-based artist Daniel “DIY” Yanes. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the mural serves as a symbol of the vibrant spirit of the local community. Yane’s vivid mural inside the learning center explores the local transformations of landscapes, animals, and people.

As participants utilize this space for programming, they will find inspiration in the bold Texas themes that span the length of the Matt King Mystery Center. The Center will serve as a venue option for private events on-site. The center is open for private bookings, providing a distinctive and captivating area for a spectrum of events, from corporate meetings to birthday celebrations. “What’s beautiful about the Matt King Mystery Center is the versatile inspiration it offers,” said General Manager of Meow Wolf Grapevine Kelly Schwartz. “It's not just a venue— it’s a community canvas for creativity and a perfect setting for guests to enhance their visit.” As the Matt King Mystery Center opens its doors to the public, Meow Wolf Grapevine invites you to experience the fusion of creativity and community. Guests are able to get more information on reserving the center by visiting their website.

–

Matt King Mystery Center | meowwolf.com/visit/grapevine/groups

CELEBRATE EVERY SEASON

12 WAYS

TO CELEBRATE SPRING

AT GAYLORD TEXAN RESORT

Now through April 21st, join Gaylord Texan Resort for a spring retreat. This premier destination of the American Southwest sits on Lake Grapevine and offers extraordinary environments, 1,814 luxury guest rooms, and 4-and-a-half acres of Texas vistas under signature atriums. Indulge in exciting activities and events — immersive escape rooms, sparkling pools, captivating light shows, creative crafting sessions, award-winning restaurants and bars. There is something for everyone to enjoy right on the resort grounds. Gaylord Texan Resort promises an unparalleled escape for those seeking relaxation and adventure.

Adventure Kid’s Clubhouse: Let your inner artist come to life while you create delightful, seasonally inspired crafts. Your imagination will soar as you make unforgettable memories you’ll treasure forever.

Adventure Kids’ Hunt for the Hidden Treasure Scavenger Hunt: Discover hidden gems all around the resort’s atrium gardens in this fun-filled hidden treasure scavenger hunt.

It’s Showtime! Escape Room: The star of the show misplaced the most important piece of her costume — her crown. As the trusted stagehand in this escape room, it’s up to you to find it. The clock is ticking... the show must go on!

The Heist Escape Room: A master thief has stolen King Arthur’s Chalice. Your mission is to infiltrate his lair, locate his hidden collection and the stolen chalice. You must recover the item and take it to the museum before he returns!

explore, and discover the wonders of spring.

World-class pampering awaits at the 25,000 square-foot spa. Enjoy ‘Be Berry’ seasonal treatments and take advantage of the resort’s lap pool, sauna, steam room, and slumber lounge.

Signature Atriums: The weather is always perfect inside the 4-and-a-half acres of Texas vistas inside their signature covered atriums. Stop by the La Argentina Gelato stand in the Lone Star Atrium as you stroll to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Luminosity Light Show: A dazzling show that takes place in the heart of the Lone Star Atrium that follows the journey of light and its many forms through nature.

Relâche Spa:

Adventure Kids Sprout into Spring Interactive Show: Join Alfie the Armadillo, Layla the Longhorn, and Sophie the Adventure Kid in an interactive show to learn, imagine,

Adventure Kids Family Bingo: Gather up the whole family and try your luck this spring at the Gaylord Texan Resort to enjoy the thrill of three rounds of family bingo.

Welcome to Gaylord Texan Room Night Offer: Includes up to $100 in resort credit to enjoy a meal at one of Gaylord Texan’s fabulous restaurants or to melt into a relaxing spa treatment at Relâche Spa.* Book at GaylordTexan.com

Award-Winning Dining: Whether you’re craving Texas barbecue, burgers, Italian or Tex-Mex, Gaylord Texan offers cuisine for everyone. Each restaurant serves delicious food, spectacular service, and beautiful resort views.

Once Upon A Spring Room Night Offer: Includes a $50 resort credit, two arts and crafts projects and two scavenger hunt maps.* Book at GaylordTexan.com

*Call (817) 778-1000 for package/offer details and event schedules.

SPRING HAS SPRUNG - FIND

Fort Worth Design Studio is not just a purveyor of furniture — it is an atelier of dreams, a sanctuary for those who envision their living spaces as canvases just waiting to be transformed into functional art. Semmelmann Interiors is proud to open the Fort Worth Design Studio to further their brand’s mission — offering professional interior design services to help you achieve the look you desire. They work with both residential and commercial clients and can handle projects of any size. Whether you need help picking out furniture and décor or want someone to handle the entire design process from start to finish — Semmelmann Interiors’ Fort Worth Design Studio is always your answer.

SEMMELMANN INTERIORS OPENS

Susan Semmelmann is the Founder of the Fort Worth Design Studio and award-winning interior design firm Semmelmann Interiors. She’s built a reputation around being truly passionate about bringing her clients’ dreams to life. Susan looks at the big picture and all the little details to design a beautiful, yet highly functional, space that reflects their personal style—not her own. Apart from her passion for designing homes, Susan is also driven by her charitable work. “The Spirit of Living is in the Giving” is the motto for Semmelmann Interiors. Susan says it summarizes her purpose in life for doing what she does. “I live to share my heart and talents with the world around me. One of core values within my company is we all have a giver’s heart—it is amazing the power that comes from a giving spirit.” Susan’s attitude of gratitude was born out of a trying time in her family’s life. In 2010, Susan’s husband Marc was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. At that time, Susan was working a full-time job. She then watched over the operations of Marc’s business, all while caring for her children and making back and forth trips to MD Anderson. During Marc’s stay at MD Anderson, Susan came across a charitable organization called Raquel’s Wings for Life, which flew her back and forth throughout his treatment. Susan and Marc pledged to pay forward this kindness. Soon after Marc’s recovery, he received his pilot’s license and now flies patients and their families to and from MD Anderson several days a week. Holding true herself to the pledge, Susan surprised non-profit organization Wish with Wings with a complete custom makeover of their lobby. Susan continues this tradition with the Semmelmann Interiors Foundation by providing a charitable makeover for one charity each year. “I live and work to give back to those around me. The more you give the more you get back, and what you get back is a full heart to share joy and passion with others.”

CRAFTING DREAMS AT FORT WORTH DESIGN STUDIO

Fort Worth Design Studio is a distinguished interior design boutique that beckons those who seek not just one-of-a-kind furniture and décor, but a narrative that’s woven into the very fabric of their living spaces.

Stepping into the Fort Worth Design Studio, visitors are greeted not only by an array of impeccably curated designs but by the promise of bespoke creations, where every piece narrates a unique story tailored to the client. The Fort Worth Design Studio showroom is full of beautiful furniture and decor that will make your home or office look stunning. From living rooms to bedrooms, there is something for everyone here. Their skilled designers will help you choose the perfect pieces for your space, and make sure you have a great experience from start to finish. Spring is officially here and with that comes the innate urge to purge the things in our home that no longer serve us—Spring Cleaning. As you delve into the nooks and crannies of your home, you might be thinking it’s time to refresh your nest. Perhaps adding a bold accent chair or upgrading to automated drapes or maybe a total powder bath overhaul. If you’re looking for some design inspiration or you just can’t find that statement piece you had in mind, look no further than the showroom at Fort Worth Design Studio.

Curate a collection of your own dream design choices — from décor and lighting to custom fabrics and floral arrangements, or one-of-a-kind furniture — design decisions done.

“Our heart-centered

approach focuses

on

excellence, down to the

very smallest detail.

I want to give you what you want in design so you will get back the experiences and memories of knowing it was designed around you and what you see for yourself and those you want to share with. ”

— Susan Semmelmann, Founder SEMMELMANN INTERIORS’ FORT WORTH DESIGN STUDIO

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EXPERT DESIGN SERVICES

need to consider your favorite color schemes, textures, materials and even the heights of your existing and future pieces. The different combinations of these furnishings can change the feel in the room dramatically. These details can be overlooked when taking on a big home or office project on your own. But it’s these small details that make a big difference on how people experience their surroundings. The Semmelmann Interiors’ Fort Worth Design Studio team is comprised of highly skilled, experienced individuals who are all passionate about interior design each with their own unique approach. They combine innovation and true creativity with classic design traditions which in turn make spaces not just beautiful, but also livable. No matter what your design needs may be, the Fort Worth Design Studio can bring your dreams to life.

“A home is personal, it is about you and your lifestyle, how you live and what you want to feel when you are in your happy place. ”

— Susan Semmelmann, Founder SEMMELMANN INTERIORS’ FORT WORTH DESIGN STUDIO

BRING YOUR VISION TO LIFE

Fort Worth Design Studio 1 (888) SSI-FWDS (3937)

DEDICATED TO DESIGNING YOUR DREAM

CUSTOM FABRIC STUDIO

Interiors’ Fort Worth Design Studio. With an extensive variety of fabrics to choose from you can find the perfect match for your project. Looking for a Captain’s Chair to match the color of a flower in your wallpaper? FWDS manufactures their own furnishings, as well as partners with other vendors to create one-of-a-kind pieces. They can take a design vision from 2D to 3D renderings to reality. Expert designers start every project by getting to know their clients and their wants and needs, so that they can create a uniquely tailored plan just for them. They take into account your personal style, as well as any functional requirements, to thoughtfully design pieces that fit into your lifestyle—not the other way around.

HIGH QUALITY WHOLESALE FABRICS

reasonable price. That’s where Fort Worth Design Studio comes in! Consider FWDS your go-to source for your fabric needs—offering a wide selection of wholesale fabrics— including silks, linens, drapery, and upholstery, in a variety of colors and patterns. Not only that, but they are passionate about helping you create the perfect space for your clientele.

Fort Worth Design Studio knows everyone has different needs and budgets. That’s why they offer a complete range of services that can be customized to fit you. The FWDS initial consultation let’s you know exactly what they can do for you.

An FWDS Designer will sit down with you and go over your goals for your space. From there, they can put together a plan that fits both your style and your budget. If you’re working within a tight budget, they can still help you achieve the look you want. Your designer will work with you to find cost-effective solutions that don’t sacrifice style. And if you have a larger budget, FWDS can provide access to exclusive furnishings and materials that you won’t find anywhere else.

Whatever your budget may be, Fort Worth Design Studio is here to help you create a space that reflects your style.

outdoor living

A YARD TRANSFORMED

“The beautiful pictures of James Landscaping’s work caught my eye in Society Life. When it was time to renovate my yard, I contacted them and the results were fabulous. I told them I wanted a tranquil backyard, something beautiful to look at. The design was amazing, and the result simply breathtaking. The next step was to transform my front yard into something that stood out in my subdivision. No more cookie cutter front yard! Everyone at James Landscaping is great to work with. They listen to their clients and really know their stuff. I’m so glad I called them!”

—

TRANSFORMATION BY JAMES LANDSCAPING, INC.

LINDA E.

Yearning for a calm, serene and relaxing Japanese garden, one local woman realizes her dreams with James Landscaping at the helm.

It all started with a blank slate—well, almost. At the project start, Linda’s backyard consisted of just lawn, a transformer box in the corner, one Chinese Pistache and one Japanese Maple (which were both integrated into the final design). Like many local homeowners, she was concerned about the proximity of neighboring homes and wanted privacy screening from the properties around hers. Any design needed to keep the swale—which ran across the middle of her back yard. The solution was a wide, meandering and natural-looking dry creek bed that enhanced the swale. A boulder retaining wall running along the back fence is now highlighted with beautiful moss and lined with trees to create that much-needed privacy. A boulder fountain is visible from the back windows and adjacent to a quaint sitting area just off the back porch—perfect for enjoying the sights and sounds of the Japanese garden. To even further accentuate the zen-garden-feel, a Japanese-style bridge and a slab bridge were chosen to cross the dry creek bed. A desire to hide the transformer box meant incorporating colorful hardy hibiscus to screen it from view. Walking paths through the garden to both sides of the house were designed to be easily walkable and free from hazards with LED lighting for visibility at night. The landscape design has low maintenance plantings for ease of care, however ince the installation in 2022, the client has repeatedly signed up for James Landscaping’s annual Horticultural Services program. Her yard benefits from quarterly visits with seasonal color, organic fertilizer, mulch replenishment, plus any maintenance for beds, lighting, irrigation, and the boulder fountain. Linda’s true testament to her total-and-complete satisfaction of her backyard transformation is that the design and installation surpassed her expectations so much that later the same year, she asked James Landscaping to work their magic again, but on her front yard.

BEFORE BELOW

BEFORE ABOVE

purpose 1 place 2

Your first step to the perfect patio for you is to determine your patio’s purpose. Will you be using it for dining and cooking, relaxing, watching tv, or conversation—or maybe all of these? You need to decide the patio location, its size, the desired shape, and final layout before you think about any details or décor. For example, a small private patio off the master suite should include privacy and a cozy space for some lounge chairs to enjoy a cup of coffee in the morning or glass of wine at night. On the other hand, a backyard deck needs to be large enough to accommodate many guests and should also have zones for dining, cooking, lounging, and entertaining.

Next you will design your backyard patio around other features that might already exist to take full advantage of your property. Some of the top considerations to plan around include trees, pools and views. You can choose to design your patio or deck around existing mature trees — or get creative and build a tree into your deck to incorporate them into the plan. If your home has a pool, you should plan your patio around existing hardscape and pool features. Finally, creating a sense of privacy from any neighboring homes is always beneficial—making sure you take advantage of any views that your home’s property might have... don’t block them out.

connect3

One of the most popular features for any patio today is creating an Indoor-Outdoor Connection. Think of your outdoor patio as an extension of your interior living space rather than being its own entity. The design should always prioritize the indoor-outdoor connection. One idea is to create an easy flow by installing panoramic sliding glass patio doors, flush thresholds that have a continuation of the indoor-outdoor flooring, and keeping materials cohesive out onto the patio design, from the interior design. This will make your home naturally feel larger with a continuation of style from the inside-to-out. This connection is one of the most sought-after.

flooring 4

Flooring choices affect your outdoor living look and mood. Some materials are easier to maintain than others. For example, natural wood decking will require yearly staining and sealing, while composite decking is mostly maintenance-free. Consider heat retention and slippery surfaces around pools. Popular choices are stone patio pavers, outdoor tile, natural wood decking, and composite wood decking. If you already have hardscapes to work with you might consider a cool deck coating to control heat and be slip-resistant— especially around your pool. Whatever you choose, it should work with a home’s design.

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Depending on its elevation, you may need to add a patio or deck railing for safety. Patio railings can also create division for different outdoor spaces — like a dining area and a pool deck. Contemporary metal railings are a durable and popular option. Glass railings are ultra-modern and don’t disrupt the view. Wood is very common, but needs sealed or painted often from the elements. Planters can also serve as a beautiful divider for shorter patios. Many homeowners today are opting for horizontal vs. vertical pickets for a modern aesthetic. Follow your home’s architectural style and one that does not impede the view while adding safety and beauty to your patio.

Lighting extends the use of your outdoor living into the evening hours. Create a mood with your lighting plan, add task lighting, and also add security to your property. Oversized pendants in natural materials merge with the outside surroundings for a cohesive feel. In addition, lighting can highlight your trees and landscaping design. Choose to light the area with ceiling-mount patio lights and also include some accent lighting throughout the patio to set an ambient backdrop for your backyard gatherings. Installing string lights to a patio space adds a cozy ambiance. It’s now common to choose lamps, sconces, fans and pendants that mimic the indoor styles.

shade 7

One of the most important decisions is if you want to lay out in the sun or relax in the shade? Most likely, you’ll want a little bit of both. Think about sun and shade whenever designing your patio spaces, so you can fully enjoy your outdoor living. It’s common to provide shady spaces for outdoor dining and any conversation areas. Roof extensions, per golas, awnings and sunshades are all good choices for creating permanent shade, but umbrellas are also highly mobile for wherever the sun may fall for creating some shade. Fabric covers and triangular sail shields have also become popular to use for creating a break from the harsh sun’s rays.

design 8

The choices that you make with the style and design will ultimately be the most visually appealing. Adding in fabrics, rugs, color and texture will soften the patio hardscape. Plant choices and décor style will create an overall feel that reflects you and how you will use your new patio outdoor living spaces. By choosing to add in outdoor heaters or fire pit you can also extend your usability season of the patio. Plus, water features will create a sense of calm and relaxation that can damper out any outside noises. Patios are a highly sought-after amenity no matter their style, making it a valuable addition for any home.

Vina Vita: the wine life.

Chris and Jennifer Cobb loved wine long before opening Kuhlman Cellars in 2014. “There’s something powerful about friends and family gathering around the dining table, the original social media site, to enjoy amazing food and incredible wine,” says Kuhlman Cellars co-founder Chris Cobb. “We call that Vina Vita: the wine life.” The stunning 15.4-acre Estate is located in the heart of the Texas wine country on the famous US290 Texas Wine Trail between Fredericksburg and Johnson City and captures the magic that Cobb family dreamt about for years. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, fine wine, delicious food, and exceptional hospitality, Kuhlman Cellars is not to be missed on your next trip to the Texas Hill Country — particularly if it’s wildflowers you’re interested in seeing. “Spring at Kuhlman Cellars is a sight for sore eyes,” admits Kuhlman Cellars co-founder Jennifer Cobb. “It’s truly a magical time at the Estate.”

wine Wildflowers &

WILDFLOWERS

Texas is home to thousands of wildflower species. The horticulturists at Kuhlman Cellars are passionate about cultivating beloved native Texas wildflowers such as bluebonnets, poppies, Black-eyed Susans, and Delphinium in order to attract bees, butterflies, and more. The South Garden greets guests as they arrive at the estate with peach and plum trees, knockout roses, thyme, rosemary, chives, catmint, Mexican feather grass, iris, bluebonnets, poppies, lamb’s ear, big tooth maples, and Indian blanket. The North Garden has a mixture of tame and wildflowers: mint, iris, Asian iris, Greg’s Mist Flower, Mexican hat, Rudbeckia, butterfly bush, poppies, and bluebonnets. This beautiful array of wildflowers faces the vineyard and is in full view of Kuhlman’s Winegarden and patio so guests may enjoy the flowers as they dine and sip.

MONARCHS & MORE

One of the best benefits about cultivating wildflowers and milkweed at the Estate is the arrival of the monarchs and the other butterflies in the spring and fall. Kuhlman

Cellars proudly became an official Monarch Waystation last year—which is a certification that took years to achieve. Nectar wildflowers such as bluebonnets, Gregg’s Mist, Black-eyed Susans, zinnias, poppies, and more make Kuhlman a sanctuary for monarchs as they migrate to Mexico each fall to avoid harsh winters before traveling north again each spring. Waystations provide necessary resources to aid monarchs with their migration. It’s an enchanting experience to watch the butterflies dance from flower to flower as you sip your wine on the patio—vines in the distance. It’s so inviting that you might want to stay all day—particularly on a Sunday when a band is playing jazz.

VINEYARD EXPERIENCES

Kuhlman Cellars is most famous for its wine and food experience—a seated tast ing with a menu that changes four times a year. The tasting was so popular that Kuhlman opened a Bistro a few years ago and now offers all sorts of delicious soups, sandwiches, charcuterie plates,

and other perfect wine pairing snacks. The new Petite Pairing is a more casual version of the wine and food experience or guests can enjoy a wine flight at their leisure. Special tasting experiences are offered throughout the year, as well as educational winemaking classes offered through Vina Vita University. “The VVU is perfect for those who are really interested in the science of winemaking,” explains Jennifer. “We host classes about pruning, blending, pairing, harvesting… our Vina Vita red blend was even developed during a blending class!”

BLESSING OF THE VINES

The vineyard Estate will host its second annual Blessing of the Vines event on Sunday, March 24 to celebrate the arrival of spring. The event includes a progressive wine tasting out in the vineyard featuring all estate-grown wines, live jazz, the release of Kuhlman’s first ever Estate Aglianico, Wild Boar Ragu over polenta paired with the robust Aglianico, and more. The event is dog-friendly—in fact, Kuhlman always happily welcomes wellbehaved dogs on leashes on their patio.

“We love our Kuhlman Kritters!” enthuses Jennifer. “Our guests love our vineyard cat, Nico, and we’re always happy to see our four-legged visitors.”

TOTAL ECLIPSE OF THE VINEYARD

Kuhlman Cellars will also host a special event this year to celebrate the total solar eclipse on Monday, April 8th. The Estate is perfectly positioned for eclipse viewing, being directly in the path of the 100% totality. The day’s celebration will begin at 10am with a delicious breakfast, live music, wine tastings, a gourmet Sicilian lunch, eclipse safety glasses, and more. Tons of special vineyard activities will be available throughout the day such as vineyard tours, a blind wine tasting class, a sensory analysis competition, a presentation on the history of Texas wine, an educational tour of Kuhlman’s Monarch Butterfly Garden, and a special sneakpeek tasting samples of the brand new 2023 white and rosé wines!

Tickets cost $200 for Vina Vita Wine Club Members and $225 for non-members.

Parking is an additional $25 per vehicle and the winery encourages people to carpool to help with the expected heavy traffic the day’s festivities conclude at 4pm.

WINEMAKING

Kuhlman currently grows Mourvédre, Marsanne, Roussanne, Aglianico, and Carignan at their 7+ acre Estate vineyard. The award-winning winery is known for Provence-style rosés, complex whites, and exciting red blends. Kuhlman uses oldfashioned hand operations wherever possible in their minimalistic winemaking processes, preferring for the grapes to most directly express their natural terroir from each vintage. The vineyard ships nationwide and offers not only a wine club, but also an Herbed Almond Club, due to popular demand. “The herbed Marcona almonds have truly taken on a life of their own,” laughs Jennifer. The herbed almonds began as part of the signature wine and food experience, but soon became requested as a stand-alone item. The almonds flew off the shelves and soon fans began requesting regular deliveries—hence the almond club was

born. “I swear, we’re going to start making tee-shirts that say: Came for the wine, stayed for the almonds!” Whether you go for wildflowers, wine, lunch, or butterflies, Kuhlman Cellars is the perfect place to enjoy the magic of springtime in Texas. With its sweeping vineyard views, delicious food, and 100% Texas grown wine—it’s easy to see why the vineyard is a favorite amongst Texas wine enthusiasts.

PLAN YOUR VISIT

Kuhlman Cellars is located in the heart of the famous Hwy 290 wine trail between Fredericksburg and Johnson City. A muststop location, the boutique winery experience will leave you coming back for more. Join them for a wine tasting paired with chef-prepared bites, grab lunch from the Bistro, or book a behind-the-scenes tour of the Estate.

18421 E. US-290, Stonewall, Texas 78671

(512) 920-2675

texas travel and beyond

The Best Spots to See Texas BLUEBONNETS

Every year, I go on a mad bluebonnet dash across Texas! As a Texas travel blogger, I know people all over the state are looking to take those coveted pictures of bluebonnets and relish their beauty for the short time they are here. However, as I plan my trips, I always start with a nice little Google search and find myself wildly disappointed. If you look up where to see bluebonnets in Texas, you will get lists of cities with thousands of roads and parks, which isn’t much help. They just plop you into a city and don’t tell you where to go. Or the lists are regurgitated from years before, and those places no longer produce bluebonnets! I want to know where to visit bluebonnets now in 2024, not back in 2015, when all these bot sites seemed to source their info. I remember chasing photo locations for years, learning that after one bad season, they never returned. So, I set out to write this blog post as an up-to-date list of authentic places to see and take pictures of bluebonnets in Texas with locations where you will actually find this state flower of Texas. We’re particularly excited about 2024 because the early rains are an exciting sign that we will have a blooming bluebonnet season this year. Yes, the best places to find bluebonnets are in Marble Falls, Brenham, Big Bend, Kingsland, Burnet, and Ennis. However, if you want to know where to go when you get to those cities, I am here to help. Plus check out my other posts for fun things to do when you do get there.

When Is the Best Time to See Bluebonnets in Texas in 2024?

In short, mid-March to mid-April, with some lucky spots still lingering in late April. In May, you’ll find other wildflowers, but not bluebonnets. We think this map is a great resource for showing you the path. While watching the reports, we expect to see an early season this year. As of March 6, 2024, I was driving through Burnet and saw bluebonnets out right in front of the famed Bluebonnet Cafe and along the side roads. We also saw many bluebonnets on our drive from Houston to Austin on March 4th. We will expect to see bluebonnets popping up now in the hill country and then see more bluebonnets in North Texas by Dallas in early April. However, it’s always best to rely on wildflower reports. We highly recommend the following list of groups to help you find wildflowers in your area and stay up-to-date on current sightings.

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A Few Things About Bluebonnets

TEXAS BLUEBONNETS

Best Pages/Groups for Finding Bluebonnets in 2024:

Texas Bluebonnets and Wildflowers: facebook.com/groups/1943260022655756

Texas Wildflowers: facebook.com/groups/92643952383

Chasing Bluebonnets facebook.com/groups/630072668083687

Texas Wildflower Reporter facebook.com/TexasWildflowerReport

The Texas Wildflower Watch instagram.com/texaswildflowerwatch (at printing it had not updated for 2024, but check the tags)

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Texas Travel Series instagram.com/texastravelseries (our page has a highlight dedicated to bluebonnets - tag us!)

Before we get into seeing bluebonnets, let’s get into some common courtesy and fact-checking. While it is not illegal to pick bluebonnets, you are not allowed to pick anything from government or private property. Therefore, don’t pick it up if it’s not on your land. Bluebonnets are beautiful wildflowers that capture everyone’s attention with their mesmerizing and soulsoothing sight. However, it’s important to be careful around them. If you, your kid, or your pets accidentally trample them, the flowers will not only be sad and squished for the next person but may also be affected for years to come. Therefore, being mindful and respectful of nature is crucial when enjoying the outdoors. That’s why many popular places don’t have any bluebonnets anymore. Too many people stomped all over them, and they didn’t bloom the next year. Let’s not ruin it for others— don’t stomp on the wildflowers, and watch the little ones who don’t know any better. Let’s be good stewards of our Texas land.

Best Spots to See Bluebonnets in Texas in 2024

Marble Falls

Located south of Burnet on Highway 281, Marble Falls is undoubtedly one of the best bluebonnet destinations. The parks actively plant bluebonnets and maintain them so we can enjoy their beauty. In Marble Falls, you will see lots of bluebonnets on the sides of the roads, as well as glamping and scenic spots. Here are the best (and safest spots to take pictures).

Bluebonnet Cafe | Bluebonnet Cafe is a famed icon of Marble Falls with its famous pies and all-day breakfast. It’s a busy spot due partly to the big names it attracts, but another part of what makes it so iconic are the bluebonnets nestling outside of the restaurant that make it seem like you’re walking into a picture. (Confirmed March 6, 2024).

Turkey Bend Recreation Area | We also expect Turkey Bend Recreation Area to be another stunner for 2024 and a place you should add to your Texas Bluebonnet Trail Map. However, do wait until mid-March for the blooms to come in. The mid-19th-century abandoned home sits in a field of wildflowers and is a popular place to take pictures.

Bluebonnet House | What might just be one of the most photographed houses in Texas is known as the Bluebonnet House. This abandoned home from the mid-19th century is situated in a field of beautiful wildflowers and is a popular spot for photography. It’s been a little sparse in previous years, but we’re feeling good about 2024. Having just visited March 8th, we expect it will get even more full! We recommend visiting this place on a cloudy day or at sunset. It is the best time to take photographs of the house without harsh light messing up the pictures.

Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area – Near Marble Falls | Just under an hour from Austin, Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area in Spicewood, Texas is famous for its spectacular bluebonnet displays along the Colorado River. This park is known for having vast fields of bluebonnets to wander through, thanks to the work of the LCRA parks. It seems that there are bluebonnets as far as the eye can see. With six miles of trails and plenty of space to stretch around and take photos of the beautiful flowers, we are confident that you will see beautiful bluebonnets in 2024 and for years to come. They’re still itty-bitty and not worth visiting, at least for another week or two (maybe after March 12th), but do check location tags on social media or follow LCRA parks for the update.

Fredericksburg

This town is another popular location to see bluebonnets, with spots that remain popular year after year. Fredericksburg itself makes it easy with its own bluebonnet map and watch. Based on previous years, we hope to also see bluebonnets at Enchanted Rock State Park and Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park, but we will leave that up to time to tell us.

Willow Loop | Willow City Loop is a scenic 13-mile driving spot that starts just outside Fredericksburg. It winds through rolling hills where you can see cows lying out in pastures of bluebonnets and flowers. The scenic drive is truly breathtaking when the vibrant flowers are in full bloom. The colorful petals of the wildflowers create a stunning contrast against the lush green landscape, making it a sight to behold. Just be careful when traveling this loop on weekends, as its popularity does cause delays and bumperto-bumper traffic on what are usually open roads.

Wildseed Farms | Wildseed Farms is one of the most popular spots for the Texas state flower. Even when it’s not bluebonnet season, you’ll find a diverse range of flowers here that will take your breath away. There’s no admission fee, so you can stroll around at your leisure and take in the stunning scenery. Don’t forget to visit the seed store before you leave. You can take some bluebonnet seeds home to grow your mini wildflower farm! While you won’t be able to sit in the blooms like you may be able to at some parks, it sure is a great place to see rows and rows of bluebonnets not affected by careless wanderers trampling on the blooms.

Ennis

Let’s go to none other than the “Official Bluebonnet City of Texas” itself, Ennis. This charming city near Dallas boasts the well-deserved title bestowed upon it by the State Legislature. And it’s not hard to see why! Ennis is famous for its 40-miles of bluebonnet trails that they track and map out yearly. So many beautiful flowers are laid out across different parks, including on the paths leading to Sugar Ridge Winery and along the Ennis Texas bluebonnet trails. Currently, the trails are expected to roll out from April 1-30, with a designated bluebonnet trail map you can follow. However, with the weather, things are always subject to change. As we get updates, we will add them to our online posts. For now, wait and watch to see.

Brenham

Located on Highway 290 between the cities of Austin and Houston, Brenham is known for having some amazing multicolored flowers in addition to bluebonnets that spring along the roads, with longhorns grazing in the pastures surrounded by these gorgeous blooms. In the spring, the Brenham Chamber of Commerce conducts a Wildflower Watch and posts on its blog bluebonnet sightings that are spotted in the surrounding area. Brenham should be blooming anytime now in this season. Luckily, they make it easy with an entire 2024 wildflower driving map that takes you from Round Top through Washington County, with so many different stops along the way.

Big Bend National Park

If you have the time to go to Big Bend, by all means, do it! As of early March 2024 (and before), the bluebonnets have been blooming. They tend to bloom as early as possible, and here you’ll get a special, wispier bluebonnet that’s iconic to this area. Sadly, we will not be making the trek down to Big Bend to track the bluebonnets (if you are, send pics). However, if you plan on doing so, the most up-to-date source for 2024 will be to check the Big Bend Facebook groups. Nestled in the heart of Texas, Big Bend National Park is a vibrant tapestry of nature’s most stunning displays, with the bluebonnet season painting an especially breathtaking scene. Here are some of the best spots to make the most of your Big Bend bluebonnet adventure.

Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive | Embark on a picturesque 30-mile journey from Castolon to the majestic Santa Elena Canyon, where the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive unfolds a canvas of bluebonnets. Take a moment to stop, breathe in the beauty, and capture memories amidst the fields of blue.

River Road | Adventure seekers, prepare for a 51-mile journey trailing through the contours of the Rio Grande. This unpaved path is your gateway to some of the park’s most secluded and scenic treasures. Bluebonnets grace the open fields along this route.

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Tyler | Of course, the Tyler Rose Gardens are famous for their roses, but they are also known for their small section of bluebonnets. Their bluebonnets don’t just come in blue but also red, and the Aggie burgundy red (of course, Aggies have so much pride they would make a bluebonnet their school colors). Come visit in April for a colorful mix that may be small but mighty!

Old Maverick Road | For those who revel in the road less traveled, the 14-mile unpaved road is a treasure trove of natural wonders. As you navigate through the western expanse of the park, keep your eyes peeled for the mesmerizing bluebonnets adorning your path.

Homer Wilson Ranch | Step back in time at the Homer Wilson Ranch, a testament to the enduring spirit of the West, now cradled within the park’s embrace. As you wander around the historic structures, the fields come alive with the vibrant hues of bluebonnets and wildflowers.

Other Amazing Bluebonnet Spots in Texas

Dancing Bee Winery – Near Belton | Dancing Bee Winery might be one of my favorite hidden gem bluebonnet spots because you get a mix of the vineyard vines and the bluebonnets. Right in mid-April, we expect it to be the best time to see the bluebonnets in all of their hues to pair perfectly with a glass of wine! As usual, we will update you on how they are coming along, as they are not currently in bloom.

Weatherford | Clarke Gardens is a delight for flower lovers’ souls. You’ll find all types of stunning flowers that are worth the visit. However, there is a section of bluebonnets for anyone looking for a place that’s not necessarily a field—but an actual garden. You can expect to see these in April.

Some other places where you can find bluebonnets are:

• McKinney Falls State Park – 5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy.

• Capital Texas Highway near the 360 Bridge

• Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail – 1715 Cesar Chavez St.

• Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center – 4801 La Crosse Ave.

• Park Hill – 900 S MoPac Express Way

• Brushy Creek Lake Park – 3300 Brushy Creek Rd. in Cedar Park

Bluebonnet Fields That Might Not Happen in 2024

If you’re driving to Kingsland for a famed photo of bluebonnets on the abandoned train track, we urge you to take a pause and wait on this one. For the past couple of years, despite every other blog touting it as a must-visit destination, we went there and monitored it and saw nothing. We will check again and update, but we don’t want you to waste your time like we did.

Are Texas bluebells and bluebonnets the same?

Bluebonnets and bluebells are two different species of flowers that may be mistaken for each other. Bluebells bloom from bulbs, have bell-shaped flowers that nod, and narrow leaves on slender stems. They grow in moist prairie-like environments and come in various colors, including blue, purple, pink, and white. Some species are scented, while others are not. Bluebonnets, on the other hand, are the state flower of Texas. They bloom on tall spikes with deep blue flowers and white tips. They’re hardy annuals—thriving in well-drained soil and full sun.

Why does Texas have bluebonnets?

Bluebonnets, the state flower of Texas, are native to the region

and can grow well in various climates and soil types. Among the six species found in the state, Lupinus texensis is the most well-known and is particularly adapted to alkaline, welldrained soils. Texas’s open landscapes, prairies, and roadsides provide an ideal environment for bluebonnets to thrive and proliferate. The plant’s hardiness enables it to survive and flourish even in the toughest conditions, making it an emblematic symbol of the resilient Texan landscape. Designated as the state flower in 1901, the bluebonnet symbolizes Texas pride. It is celebrated each spring with widespread passion as families and tourists alike participate in the tradition of admiring and photographing these vibrant fields.

Why are bluebonnets special in Texas?

Aside from being the state’s official flower, Bluebonnets hold a special place in Texas due to their deep-rooted presence in its natural landscape, history, and culture. They symbolize Texas pride and beauty, thriving across the state’s diverse terrains thanks to their adaptability to local conditions. Each spring, bluebonnets blanket vast areas with vibrant blue hues, sparking annual traditions of sightseeing and photography that bring communities together.

Are bluebonnets all over Texas?

Yes, bluebonnets are found all over Texas, but their presence is particularly notable in certain regions due to ideal growing conditions. The most abundant displays of bluebonnets are typically seen in the Central Texas region, especially in the Texas Hill Country, which encompasses areas around Austin and San Antonio. This region’s climate, soil type, and topography provide a perfect environment for bluebonnets to thrive.

Where is the best place to take Bluebonnet pictures?

One of the most renowned locations is the city of Ennis, which is often named the “Bluebonnet Capital of Texas.” Ennis offers miles of designated bluebonnet trails that peak in April, providing stunning backdrops for photographers. The area around the Texas Hill Country, including towns like Fredericksburg, Marble Falls, and Llano, is also famous for its picturesque bluebonnet fields set against rolling hills and rustic settings. Another noteworthy spot is Washington County, particularly around Brenham, which boasts vibrant bluebonnets and other wildflower fields. Each location offers unique settings for capturing the beauty of Texas’ state flowers in their natural habitat, making them ideal for those seeking to immortalize the splendor of bluebonnet season in Texas.

As we wrap up our bluebonnet journey with an enticing scent capturing our body and soul, it’s obvious that the Lone Star State offers many stunning locations to witness the beauty of its beloved state flower. From the picturesque trails of Ennis, the heart of Bluebonnet City, to the rolling landscapes of the Texas Hill Country and the quaint fields around Brenham in Washington County, each spot offers a unique backdrop to experience the sea of blue that captivates Texans and visitors alike every spring.

Visit mycurlyadventures.com to find out even more to see and do in these Texas bluebonnet destinations.

greater good

SAVING THE PLANET ONE YARD AT A TIME.

the turfmutt foundation

The TurfMutt Foundation encourages outdoor learning experiences, stewardship of our green spaces, and care for living landscapes for the benefit of all. By teaching about the outdoors and educating citizens about sustainability, they are helping sustain a greener, healthier quality of life for this and future generations. They promote urban habitats and ways everyone may save the world one yard at a time. Mutt Mulligan is the symbol and spokesdog of this mission.

SL greater good

THE TURFMUTT FOUNDATION ENCOURAGES OUTDOOR LEARNING EXPERIENCES, STEWARDSHIP OF OUR GREEN SPACES, AND CARE FOR ALL LIVING LANDSCAPES FOR THE BENEFIT OF ALL. THEY ARE DEDICATED TO SHARING A SIMPLE MESSAGE — NATURE STARTS AT YOUR BACKDOOR -THROUGH EDUCATION RESOURCES, INFORMATION AND OUTREACH.

THE TURFMUTT ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP AND EDUCATION PLATFORM TEACHES KIDS AND THEIR PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMEOWNERS THE IMPORTANCE OF CARING FOR GRASSES, SHRUBS, TREES AND FLOWERING PLANTS IN THEIR COMMUNITIES, FAMILY YARDS, PARKS, AND SCHOOL GROUNDS. TOGETHER WE CAN SAVE THE PLANET ONE YARD AT A TIME.

THE TURFMUTT FOUNDATION

It Started with a Dog. When OPEI president, Kris Kiser, adopted Lucky in 2008 they quickly formed a team that would influence the way future generations interact, appreciate and are inspired by the world outside their door. Now, Lucky has passed the legacy onto Mulligan and the mission continues. TurfMutt Foundation continues to promote its mission today and they’re dedicated to sharing a simple message — nature starts at your backdoor — through education resources, information and outreach. The TurfMutt Foundation encourages these outdoor learning experiences, the stewardship of our green spaces and care for all living landscapes for the benefit of all by teaching about the outdoors and educating citizens about how to help sustain a greener, healthier quality of life for this and future generations. Our green spaces are good for people, pets and the planet.

The TurfMutt Foundation all began with the life of a dog, Lucky. There wouldn’t be a TurfMutt Foundation without him. Lucky led a purpose-driven life. TurfMutt was created by the OPEI board and founded by the industry, but Lucky was the dog force. Predicated on a dog’s life, the program was designed to educate kids and to teach the world to look at backyards and our urban habitats differently. Through the eyes of Lucky, we see that these living outdoor spaces have a greater purpose for our pollinators, ecology, climate, and wildlife. As the original TurfMutt, Lucky took a

program that was designed to educate kids and made it possible to see backyards and urban habitats differently. Through the eyes of Lucky, we see that these living outdoor spaces have a greater purpose. Sadly, Lucky crossed the rainbow bridge in the Fall of 2019, but the mission lives on.

MEET MULLIGAN

Mulligan is the spokesdog for the TurfMutt program. Rescued by Kentucky Humane Society and adopted by the Foundation President Kris Kiser at the second-annual Lucky's Mutt Madness adoption event at

GIE+EXPO, Mutt Mulligan has grown into the cape to become the superhero voice for the TurfMutt Foundation. She continues the decade-long legacy of the TurfMutt Foundation—and she’s the first rescue dog to represent the program.

PAWSITIVE RESPONSE

TurfMutt, celebrating its 15th anniversary in 2024, was created by the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute’s (OPEI) TurfMutt Foundation and has reached more than 70 million children, educators and families since 2009. Championed by Foundation spokesdog, Mulligan the TurfMutt, and through education partners such as Weekly Reader, Discovery Education and Scholastic, TurfMutt has taught students and teachers how to “Save the Planet, One Yard at a Time.”

Today, TurfMutt is an official USGBC® Education Partner and part of their global Learning Lab. TurfMutt has been an education resource at the U.S. Department of Education’s Green Ribbon Schools, the U.S. Department of Energy, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Green Apple, the Center for Green Schools, the Outdoors Alliance for Kids, the National Energy Education Development (NEED) project, Climate Change Live, Petfinder and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. In 2017, the TurfMutt animated video series won the coveted Cynopsis Kids Imagination Award for Best Interstitial Series.

PAWTNERS

Over the last decade, TurfMutt Foundation joined forces with several education partners including Weekly Reader, Discovery Education and Scholastic. The educational resources are free and aligned to Science,

Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) standards for grades K-5. “Backyarding,” which is the act of using our yards, parks and other green spaces for activities typically associated with our indoor life such as dining, working, entertaining and more, has gained much traction in recent years.

Now, with spring just around the corner, the Foundation encourages people to ratchet up their backyarding activities by identifying their personal style and personality. “Your yard isn’t just for aesthetics,” reminds Kris Kiser, President and CEO of the TurfMutt Foundation, “It’s purposeful and contributes to our and the planet’s well-being. We encourage you to design your space that shows off your sense of style and supports what is important to your family.”

HERE ARE SIX IDEAS TO “YARD YOUR WAY” THIS SPRING:

• Business in the front (yard) & party in the back. If you live in a neighborhood with strict homeowner’s association (HOA) regulations, you may feel hemmed in by what you can do in the public-facing areas of your yard. But you can use the backyard to really highlight your style, whether it’s cozy and family-friendly or modern and sleek.

• Sensible & sustainable. What you choose to plant in your yard can affect climate change on a microlevel, and ecoconscious homeowners know selecting native plants is good for the environment. They are more resilient, require less water and promote biodiversity. Bonus: they are also easier to maintain.

• Budget backyarding. Your yard is full of cost-saving measures that budgetconscious families can take. Skip the fancy restaurant and dine alfresco on your patio. Host a family movie night on a blanket of backyard grass. Or consider trading a pricy weekend getaway for a backyard staycation.

• DIY… or don’t. If you are a weekend warrior who relishes DIY projects, taking care of your yard yourself can be an excellent choice. But there is no shame in your backyard game if you outsource yardwork so you can spend your time outside just enjoying your yard. You could also have a landscaping crew do the basic

mowing and maintenance so you can spend your time enjoying gardening or just enjoying it.

• Biodiverse digs. Human-made and synthetic environments have changed the landscape, so pollinators and wildlife rely on our yards and community green spaces to bring equilibrium to the ecosystem. Planting for these local critters can turn your backyard into a private nature preserve.

• Park it. Community greenspace and neighborhood parks make it possible to “yard your way” even if you don’t have an outdoor space to call your own. Want to sit under a shade tree and read? A community park often offers these kinds of resting spots. Want to do a little hiking but not travel hours out of town? An urban trail system is an excellent opportunity to hoof it close to home. You can even stake a claim to your own patch of nature and try your hand at growing things through community gardening programs.

Sign up for Mutt Mail monthly e-newsletter with backyarding tips and all the news from the TurfMutt Foundation on their website at: –

MAR 23-24 & MAR 29-31 • The Big Bounce America 2024 • The Big Bounce America 2024 tour is the bounciest, most action-packed experience of the year! In Dallas from Saturday, March 23rd, through Sunday, March 24th, and Friday, March 29th, through Sunday, March 31st at the Reunion Tower. Featuring The World’s Largest Bounce House, Big Bounce America is the biggest touring inflatable event in the world and includes eight massive inflatable attractions: the newly expanded 24,000 sq. foot World’s Largest Bounce House—the brand-new deep sea foam party inflatable OctoBlast; the incredible 900+ ft. long obstacle course The Giant—the customized sports arena Sport Slam—and the unique, three-piece, space-themed wonderland airSPACE. The Big Bounce America continues to turn up the wow-factor and push the limits of family-friendly entertainment to new heights! You can get your tickets now at: thebigbounceamerica.com/tour-dates

MAR 24 • A TASTE OF BROADWAY • A taste of Broadway in Southlake! “You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll laugh some more.” You’re invited to join Apex Arts League for an intimate evening of stories and songs featuring your favorite Broadway standards. Frontline Cabaret presents “Love is a Many Splintered Thing.” This cabaret performance featuring Jodi Crawford Wright and pianist James McQuillen will present beloved Broadway love songs that celebrate all aspects of falling in love: the good, the bad and the ugly! So be good—not ugly and we will see you on Sunday, March 24th at Southlake’s Marq venue for a lovely night of interactive song and memories with Broadway melodies to remember. Tickets start at $20. Purchase at the door or in advance at their website: ApexArtsLeague.com

MAR 28-31 • Disney On Ice Magic in the Stars • Go Into the Unknown! For the first time at Disney On Ice experience the magic of Frozen 2! Sing along with Anna, Elsa, Kristoff and Olaf as we are reminded that “Some Things Never Change.” Then watch in awe as Elsa performs a powerful solo to “Into the Unknown” bringing the elements to life before your eyes. Celebrate the power of love at Disney On Ice presents Magic in the Stars! Dickies Arena in Fort Worth March 28 to March 31. For tickets visit: ticketmaster.com

MAR 30 • Camp Carter Easter Trail Run & Egg Hunt • Join us March 30th on the beautiful 360 acres of YMCA Camp Carter, less than 10 minutes from downtown Fort Worth and nestled on the banks of Trinity

River, for an Easter Egg Hunt, 5K and 1K! Start times are: Easter Egg Hunt 9am, 1K Kids Fun Run 9:30am, 5K Trail Run 9:45am, and 5K Pup Run 10am. All run registrants will receive a custom race tee. The first 125 5K participants will proudly sport a custom finisher medal. Awards will also be given to top 3 overall males and females and the top 3 runners within each age group. The first 50 children 12 and under who finish the 1K kids fun run will receive a custom finisher medal. The first 30 pups who register get a custom bandana! After the run, the fun continues as you delve into the heart of Camp Carter. Unleash your spirit of exploration with activities that encompass the thrills of the Challenge Course—complete with a double zipline and a 60-foot rock wall, archery, and canoeing. Make sure to snap a

photo with the Easter Bunny & Bandit, Camp Carter mascot, before you head out! Register at: tinyurl.com/campcarteregghunt

APR 6 • GCS Mom’s League The Great Gala Moulin Rouge • Tickets now available for The Great Gala! On Saturday April 6, 2024 GCS Moms League will host their annual Gala with this year’s beneficiary being Christ's Haven for Children. Imagine a night of opulent extravagance, shimmering with timeless allure, inspired by the splendor of Moulin Rouge. This is The Great Gala, an event unlike any other, hosted by the GCS Moms League. We invite you to be part of this unparalleled soirée. This year get VIP Experience tickets or general admission. Visit: gcsmomsleague.org/the-great-gala

DISNEY ON ICE MAGIC IN THE STARS INCLUDING FROZEN 2 IN FORT WORTH MARCH

APR 6 • Alzheimer’s Association An Event to Remember Gala • The Alzheimer’s Association Dallas & Northeast Texas Chapter is pleased to recognize Ken and Fay Moraif as Honorary Chairs at the upcoming annual gala. The gala will take place on April 6, 2024 at 6pm at the JW Marriott Dallas Arts District. Steve Eagar, KDFW FOX 4 evening news anchor, is returning as host and emcee of the event. Celebrating the fifth year in Dallas, this annual black-tie event benefits the Alzheimer’s Association in the mission to lead the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia. The 2023 gala raised over $500,000 for Alzheimer’s education and research, and event organizers are hoping to equal or better that amount this year. For tickets visit: dallasalzhits5.givesmart.com

APR 6 • BobbyFest • BobbyFest Music Event benefiting Amy’s Wish With Wings is back Saturday, April 6th from 4-9pm at The Marq Southlake (285 Shady Oaks Drive, Southlake 76092). Bobbyfest started 15 years ago as a backyard music festival hosted by Bobby & Lisa Rawls. In its third year, Bobby decided to leverage the event to raise money for charity. For the past five years, Bobbyfest has served as a charity event honoring Amy’s Wish With Wings— an equine therapy center for kids with special needs. Come enjoy live music, vendors, auctions and more! Visit: bobbyfest.com

APR 8 • Total Eclipse of the Park • Join us for a special celebration centered around the solar eclipse in April, Total Eclipse of the Park. First, the stars align—literally—for the

most electrifying event in Addison Circle Park in 2024, Total Eclipse of the Park. Stargazers of all levels are encouraged to grab their blankets, lawn chairs and coolers and participate in daylong activities including yoga in the park, live music, food trucks and much more. It will definitely not be a regular Monday. It all culminates with a chance to view the total solar eclipse at 1:40pm. Total Eclipse of the Park takes place April 8, 2024. Visit: visitaddison.com

APR 8 • Sky High Dallas Eclipse Bash •

The last time Dallas witnessed a total solar eclipse was in 1878. But for this year’s eclipse, on Monday, April 8, Dallas has a million-dollar view 19 floors up. Dallas is not only the largest city in the path of totality, but it also has the longest period of totality, about 4½ minutes. Waterproof, the rooftop lounge at the iconic Statler, is hosting the region’s most epic eclipse party and inviting guests to reserve their spot for this one-ofa-kind event—Solar Eclipse Social. Starting at noon, guests can arrive at the 19th-floor pool bar, the highest in downtown Dallas. The chic soiree will start with a complimentary first glass of Hampton Water Rosé wine and passed light bites. Each guest will also receive Statler eclipse glasses to safely view the phenomenon. While eclipse totality will begin at 1:40pm, guests are welcome to stay and celebrate until 3pm as a part of the Solar Eclipse Social experience. Tickets are very limited for this luxe viewing event and are $35 per person. Reservations are required at: tinyurl.com/SolarEclipseSocial. Those wishing to reserve a cabana for 4-10 can do so with a bottle service commitment beginning at $350, which includes event entry fee. Cabana reservations requested via email to: hello@waterproofdallas.com

APR 8 • Meow Wolf Solar Eclipse Watch Party • Meow Wolf, the explorable arts wonderland, announced a multidimensional party to celebrate the solar eclipse over Texas on April 8th. Families can unlock the portal between The Real Unreal and the local galaxy at this all-day celebration that will include an array of spacey activities, interstellar snacks, and an illuminating solar eclipse watch party. From noon to 3pm, guests will be able to step outside, snag a pair of protective eclipse glasses, and watch this once-in-a-lifetime phenomenon among the interdimensional beings of Meow Wolf. The day (and temporary night) will include an array of unique celestial moments. Guests can choose from a variety of activities including cyanotype paper crafting sessions, shadow puppetry, and space-age face painting. The party will also include

MAIN ST. FORT WORTH ARTS FESTIVAL IN DOWNTOWN FORT WORTH FOR 37TH YEAR ON APRIL 18-21

galactic-themed food and beverages from Celestial Brewing, Nikki’s Popcorn, and Hive Bakery! Within the exhibition, guests can consult the stars with tarot readings, interactive art and more inside The Real Unreal. To participate in this event, guests simply have to reserve a ticket for April 8 at The Real Unreal. Those interested in attending the viewing party should reserve a time slot prior to noon. Guests are sure to find themselves captivated by the magic of the eclipse. Visit: meowwolf.com/visit/grapevine

APR 14 • Fort Worth Chorale presents: The Inventors • This immersive concert experience will combine the genius of Leonardo da Vinci’s timeless works with the artistic expressions of graphic arts, choir, and orchestra. Through captivating visuals, enchanting music, and mesmerizing performances, they will aim to transport the audience into the world of one of history’s most revered polymaths. The Fort Worth Chorale presents: The Inventors on April 14, 2024 at 3:30pm at I.M. Terrell Performing Arts Center in Fort Worth. Tickets are $25, with discounts available for students, educators and seniors. For more, please visit: fortworthchorale.org/theinventors

APR 18-21 • MAIN ST. Fort Worth Arts Festival • MAIN ST. returns to Downtown Fort Worth for its 37th year on April 18-21. As the largest arts festival in Texas and the No.3-ranked fine arts festival in the U.S., MAIN ST. will feature over 200 jury-selected visual artists, live music on two stages, local cuisine, a maker's zone/children’s area, craft beer, wine tastings, and much more across 18 square blocks in downtown. This year's MAIN ST. will present a diverse lineup of entertainers, with two distinct stages hosting performances ranging from southern rock bands and jazz keyboardists to R&B groups and Tejano vocalists. TCC Makers Zone will offer plenty of hands-on activities. Located at the north end of Main Street, the TCC Makers Zone provides children of all ages with an opportunity to explore their creative side through innovation, invention, technology, creativity, and curiosity. MAIN ST. will also provide an unparalleled culinary experience, showcasing tantalizing dishes prepared by top local chefs and long-standing festival vendors across five food courts daily. MAIN ST. is free and open to the public. Festival dates and hours are:

• Thursday, April 18 ................. 10am-10pm

• Friday, April 19 ...................... 10am-11pm

• Saturday, April 20 ................... 10am-11pm

• Sunday, April 21 ...................... 10am-8pm For more, visit: MainStreetArtsFest.org

APR 20 • Colleyville Garden Club Plant Sale • Colleyville Garden Club, in association with the City of Colleyville, will be holding a Plant Sale on Saturday, April 20 at the Colleyville Center located at 5301 Riverwalk Drive, Colleyville 76034. The sale will run from 9am to 2pm. A large variety of plants will be sold, including perennials, annuals, and tried and true plants grown in the yards of club members. Cash, checks, Zelle, and credit cards will be taken. Be early for the best selection! Colleyville Garden Club is a nonprofit 501c3 organization. Proceeds will benefit club beautification projects. For more, visit: ColleyvilleGardenClub.org

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NOW THRU APR 23 • Molly Odom Magill

Art Exhibit at Galleria Dallas • One of Galleria Dallas’ priorities is sharing the local

arts community with its shoppers. For its first Artist Collective exhibit of 2024, the center will display landscape paintings by Dallas-based artist Molly Odom Magill. The painter and mixed-media installation artist, who hails from West Texas, comes from a long line of artists, writers and musicians, which led her to explore her creativity from an early age. Magill’s landscape paintings have been seen in shows across the state and her work fills the walls of Genesis Women’s Shelter in Dallas. Magill’s paintings are rooted in place, an exploration of how our surroundings, particularly the geography, shape us. For Magill, place means Texas and its myriad landscapes and people, beauty and contradictions. Her work seeks to remind us how each place, each moment, makes up a landscape, a life. All

GALLERIA DALLAS HOSTS EXHIBIT BY DALLAS ARTIST MOLLY ODOM MAGILL NOW THROUGH APRIL 23

are linked and layered to tell our story. The free art exhibit at Galleria Dallas can be viewed on Level 1 in the Art Window next to Tommy Bahama through April 23. “The bold colors and shapes found in Molly’s works evoke the varied landscapes of our home state,” said Galleria Dallas Director of Marketing Megan Townsend. “We’re excited to share her voice with our shoppers this spring.” The Molly Odom Magill exhibit at Galleria Dallas is on display now through April 23rd. Galleria Dallas is located at 13350 Dallas Parkway in Dallas 75240. For more info, visit: galleriadallas.com

APR 23 • NAF Bigshots Golf Charity Event • The Neuro Assistance Foundation presents Big Shots Golf Classic at Bigshots Golf of Fort Worth located at 15700 Golf

View Drive in Fort Worth 76177. This year’s golf event will be from 1-4pm on Tuesday, April 23, 2024. Non-alcoholic drinks and appetizers will be provided. Alcohol will be available for purchase. This is a familyfriendly event so bring your spouse, kids, friends, and colleagues! And remember, Mulligans available for purchase! Register at: tinyurl.com/NAFbigshots ..................................................................

APR 26-28 • Art in the Square • The 24th Art in the Square is an award-winning festival with a ranking of #4 for 2024. Come to Southlake Town Square on April 26-28 with family and friends for a fun-filled weekend of abundant art, music, tasty food, refreshing spirits and children’s activities. Southlake Women’s Club is showcasing the remarkable artwork of 150 juried renowned artists.

Visit “Arts Alive,” Apex Arts League photo op stop for snap shots. Tour the Youth Art tent to view the exceptional artwork of the high school students of Northeast Tarrant County. Kid’s Korner and The Zone offers numerous activities for creativity. The Zone creates laughable fun bouncing, climbing, jumping and sliding. Be an ArtWalker in the cosmic canvas, April 26-28. Where else can you experience art, entertainment, and family fun while helping 26 charities in the community? Visit: artinthesquare.com

APR 27 • Concerts on Harwood • The Concerts on Harwood classical music concert series is back again for a 2024 season with four performances. The series aims to share the joy of classical music with their neighbors. Join us Saturday April 27, 2024 at 4pm for an Organ Recital by Mr. Aaron Walton – the Organist at Canyon Creek Presbyterian Church in Richardson. He will be presenting a program ranging from early Baroque to the 20th century, including music by Franz Tunder and Charles Tournemire, as well as his own original compositions and improvisations. Series will be held at Emmanuel Presbyterian Church, 2701 Harwood Rd. Bedford 76021. Tickets free. Donations appreciated. Concerts will also be held on June 15, September 14 and December 7, 2024 For more, please visit: emmanuelpc.org/concerts-on-harwood

MAY 9 • Fired Up • The stage is set for an exquisite evening in an outdoor setting featuring premium cigars, impeccably grilled rib-eye steak dinners and open bar pouring premium cocktails, craft beer and fine wine. An exceptional chance to indulge your clients or esteemed employees in a night of leisure. Each guest receives a custom pack of cigars for the evening’s enjoyment. The evening begins at 6pm with an open bar and silent auction. Dinner begins at 7pm with a raffle following the meal. Tickets are limited so plan now to be a part of this unique event. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Texas Music Theatre Company. As sponsorships and tickets are limited, it's advisable to make your plans early to ensure your participation in this unparalleled event. $175 - Individual Ticket. $1,300 - Table of 8. $1,500 - Premium Table of 8. Location will be Landscape Systems Garden Center at 1823 Keller Parkway, Keller 76248. Tickets available at: tinyurl.com/GKCCfiredup

Free DateBook event listings are first-come, first-served. Include your event’s name, date, time, location, ticket pricing/purchase info, contact information, website, and a brief explanation. Allow 45 days advance notice of your event for print deadline: elena@societylifemagazine.com

THE 24TH ANNUAL ART IN THE SQUARE WILL BE AT SOUTHLAKE TOWN SQUARE APRIL 26-28

SL

6 Questions About

SERVICES CHARITIES GOLF CLASSIC

BY MARY MACDOWELL

KELLER SERVICES CHARITIES IS A NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION THAT SUPPORTS OTHER LOCAL NON-PROFITS IN NEED, INDIVIDUALS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS, SINGLE PARENTS, SENIOR CITIZENS, AND VETERANS.

KELLER

GOLF CLASSIC

For Brian and Brandy Schimmel, building relationships goes beyond their day-to-day business. In 2015, they founded Keller Services Heating and Air Conditioning—a local familyowned and operated business. Brian and Brandy have worked tirelessly to build a company known for superior service, honesty and reliability, plus professionalism in the field. They take the time to listen to client needs and to build long-lasting relationships built on trust and industry expertise. Before joining the family business full-time in 2018, Brandy served in the non-profit sector for 10 years as Development Manager at the Community Enrichment Center, Director of Development at Junior Achievement Fort Worth, and Executive Director of North Texas Special Needs Assistance (SNAP). For years, they have given their time and money to local non-profits, looking for a way to do more. Their company had always been meant to be more than just a business—they truly wanted to be involved in their community.

After much consideration and prayer, Brian and Brandy took a leap of faith—combining God’s financial blessings and Brandy’s fundraising and event planning background, they established Keller Services Charities. As part of their commitment to pay it forward, they founded the 501c3 non-profit organization to support other local non-profits in need, individuals with special needs, single parents, senior citizens, and veterans.” The charity’s purpose is to hold fundraising and awareness events that raise money, with 100% of the net proceeds going directly to those in need. They are thrilled to host the Keller Services Charities Golf Classic on Thursday, May 9th, at the Sky Creek Ranch Golf Club in Keller, benefiting the Keller Community Senior Fund and North Texas Special Needs Partners (SNAP). The vision of The Keller Community Senior Fund is to enhance seniors' social, physical, and mental health so they can be viewed with greater value, dignity, and respect. SNAP creates choices for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities while providing a network that supports independence and personal success. Both organizations make a huge difference in our community as they do not receive government funding and operate solely on community donations and fundraising events.

Registration for this golf tournament will begin in the Sky Creek Ranch clubhouse, where players will be able to check in, pick up their goody bag/player gift, visit the cigar bar, bid on silent auction items, drop their tickets into the wish bowl raffle boxes, and grab lunch provided by Jason’s Deli in Keller before heading down to the driving range. Shortly after, there will be a call to carts and prayer before tee-off begins at 1pm. Dinner will be provided by DeVivo Bros in Keller, an open bar, awards, and raffle results to conclude the event. Keller Services Charities Golf Classic event is a great way to FUNdraise for a great cause! Paying it forward, Brian and Brandy Schimmel are excited to share the gifts God has provided personally and professionally to them with others through Keller Services Charities.

FAST FACTS KELLER SERVICES CHARITIES GOLF CLASSIC

THURSDAY, MAY 9, 2024

Sky Creek Ranch Golf Club

600 Promontory Drive Keller, Texas 76248

• 11 am - Registration, Cigar Bar, and Lunch

• 12:45pm - Call to Carts and Prayer

• 1pm - Shotgun Start

• 6pm - 19th Hole Dinner, Open Bar, Swanky Sweets, and Awards

• Silent Auction

• Wish Bowl Raffle Boxes

• $175 – One Player

• $600 – Foursome

GOLF CLASSIC BENEFITS:

• Keller Community Senior Fund, Inc.

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• North Texas Special Needs Assistance Partners (SNAP)

REGISTER AND FIND OUT MORE: kellerservicescharities.org

SL 6 Questions About

WHO: Keller Services Charities is a 501c3 non-profit organization supporting local non-profits in need, individuals with special needs, single parents, senior citizens, and veterans. They continually seek additional opportunities within their communities to pay it forward.

WHAT: The Keller Services Charities Golf Classic will benefit:

• Keller Community Senior Fund, Inc.

• North Texas Special Needs Assistance Partners (SNAP)

Both organizations make a huge difference in our community—they do not receive government funding and operate solely on donations from the community and fundraising events.

WHERE: Sky Creek Ranch Golf Club at 600 Promontory Drive in Keller, Texas 76248

WHEN: Thursday, May 9, 2024. For questions call (817) 851-3475.

11am Registration, Cigar Bar, and Lunch 12:45pm Call to Carts and Prayer 1pm

Shotgun Start 6pm 19th Hole Dinner, Open Bar, Swanky Sweets, and Awards

SILENT AUCTION & WISH BOWL RAFFLE BOXES INCLUDING:

• Track Pack by Lone Star Park

• AT&T Stadium Tour for 4

• Spa packages from Corinthian Wellness Spa and Trinity Aesthetics & Laser

• $500 Shopping Spree at Market Street in Colleyville

• Packages to:

Cowtown Coliseum, Stockyards Rodeo, PBR Stockyards Showcase, Ultimate Bull Fights

• Wine Tasting for 20 at Total Wine & More

• Jewelry from Kendra Scott

• Theater Tickets to Casa Manana

• Whiskey and Wine Baskets

• Hollywood Feed Dog Baskets

• Local Eateries, Entertainment Venues, and So Much More! Learn more at: kellerservicescharities.org/tournament-registration-form-2023 – –

WHY: Brian and Brandy Schimmel are excited to share the gifts God has provided them personally and professionally with others through Keller Services Charities. They aim to raise $50,000 to give back to Keller Community Senior Fund, Inc., and North Texas Special Needs Assistance Partners (SNAP). They ask you to partner with them to make this event one that individuals, community members, and professionals will want to attend. Together, we can make a difference in our local community.

HOW: SCAN QR CODE CLICK TO PURCHASE INDIVIDUAL TICKETS OR SPONSORSHIPS

Caring individuals, businesses, organizations, and foundations provide the support these establishments need to make a difference. Scan the QR code to learn about Sponsorship Opportunities, Playing Spots, and Super Tickets, or to register for one player or foursomes:

• $175 – One Player

• $600 – Foursome

P.O. Box 1953 | Keller, Texas 76244 | brandy@keller-services.com | (817) 851-3475 | kellerservicescharities.org

AMERICAN / ECLECTIC ...................................

Babe’s Chicken Dinner House • Fried chicken good as grandma’s, but she’d rather chow down on unlimited sides. Warm biscuits with butter and honey are reason to go. • Roanoke & NRH babeschicken.com

Blue 22 Sports Grill • 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

Chef Point Modern Bar & Restaurant • From a gas station to gourmet. It’s fine dining, refined. Join us for your next unforgettable meal. Lunch, dinner and weekend brunch. • Colleyville chefpointcafe.org

Chill Restaurant & Bar • One stop shop for food, drinks and entertainment. Food and drink specials everyday and an incredible brunch menu every Saturday and Sunday! • Grapevine chillgrapevine.com

Craft & Vine • Stunning indoor-outdoor watering hole with expansive beer and wine choices, shareable plates invite conversation. Happy hour with martinis and sunsets. • Roanoke craftandvine.restaurant

Crave Kitchens • Mix and match delivery service so everybody gets what they want. A driver picks it all up and delivers to your door—all in one order. Also offers catering. • Southlake cravekitchens.com

FnG Eats • American grill comfort cuisine serving memories with a twist. Casual neighborhood spot where you get a good burger and a dressed-up plate of mussels. Bar is just as vibrant. • Keller fngeats.com

HG Sply Co. • Healthy that’s so indulgent. All-natural, minimally processed ingredients to satisfy cravings, whether you’re on a restricted diet or throwing caution to the wind. • Trophy Club hgsplyco.com

Horizon 76 • Order a burger “bone-in” or topped with mac n’cheese and bacon, or chicken pot pie with fried chicken chunks crowned with a crispy chicken tender. Build s’mores. • Fort Worth horizon76.com

Leela’s Wine Bar • 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. • Trophy Club leelaswinebar.com

Mason & Dixie • Celebrating all things Southern— take them up on their BYOB invite when shrimp and grits is on the specials board. • Inside Grapevine Antique Market facebook.com/masonanddixie

Moxie’s Grill & Bar • Crowd pleaser with globallyinspired fare—Thai curry bowls, tuna ceviche, steak frites. Fun and sophisticated—equal parts sports bar and eclectic brasserie. • Southlake us.moxies.com

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

PIAF Kitchen+Wine+Bar • Power lunch to happy hour, to a romantic date night. Weekends start with buffet brunch—end with rooftop bar drinks. Flatbreads, seafood, steaks. • Grapevine piafkitchen.com

Sky Creek Grill • Bistro dishes with modern western flair. Steak, salmon, pasta, salads, sandwiches, hamburgers, cold beer. Open to public. • In Keller’s Sky Creek Ranch Golf Club skycreekranch.com

Sky Creek Kitchen + Bar • Elevated Texas cuisine— premier culinary experience. Menu of locally sourced ingredients, unique seafood dishes, Texas farm-raised Akaushi beef. • Southlake skycreekkitchen.com

Social Oak Wine & Whiskey Lounge • 21+ lounge with speakeasy vibe, comfy patio, wine and whiskey pouring systems, amazing tapas style dishes—like no other. • Trophy Club socialoaklounge.com

Sports City Taverna • Strong on options—wood fired pizza, street tacos, burgers, brunch. Whether your team wins or loses, you’re a winner with the best food and drinks in the city • NFW sportscitytaverna.com

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

j The Rô on Oak • The Rô upscale lounge offers a sophisticated, intimate hospitality experience serving premium cocktails and a menu of Small Bites inside the swankiest local spot. • Roanoke theroonoak.com

j The 206 • Previously Oak Street Food and Brew, The 206 is a brewery and food hall designed for craft brew and chef-driven food with a fun and relaxing atmosphere. • Roanoke oakstreetfoodandbrew.com

TruFire Kitchen & Bar • Consistent menu, exemplary akaushi beef burger, truffle-scented mac n’cheese. Try banana split and handcrafted cocktails. Gluten-free or vegetarian menus. • Southlake trufire.us

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

Cowtown Sushi • Unexpectedly refined sushi and sashimi. Hidden gem status for too long. Chefs eager to impress diners, making this an environment to expand your palate. • Southlake cowtownsushi.com

Foster’s Sushi, Seafood, Bar & Grill • Creative style of sushi with American cuisine to fill your appetite. Ten flat screen TVs to suit all sports fans, plus happy hour from 3-6pm. • Roanoke fostersushi.com

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

Hush Sushi

• Posh location, elevated sushi and drink menu. Don’t miss Wagyu burger! Foodies flock to happy hour specials and the vast selection of Maki, Nigiri and Sashimi. • Keller hushkeller.com

j Kanta Ramen Thai • Experience the exhibition kitchen, fast and friendly service. Selection of curries, ramen, soups, Izakaya. Sukiyaki, noodle and rice dishes. • Colleyville kantaramenandthai.com

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

Malai Kitchen • Thai-Vietnamese with silky curries, sriracha made in-house. Imaginative beverage program with house-brewed beers. Grand finale—Mango Sticky Rice Smash. • Southlake malaikitchen.com

My Lan Vietnamese Kitchen • Steaming pho bowls, heaping rice plates, crispy egg rolls. Vietnamese staples are soulful with reasonable prices. • Colleyville mylanvietnamesekitchen.com

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

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

Sabai Sabai Southeast Asian Kitchen • Pad Thai, massaman curry, pho, also explore Lao beef jerky, steamed fish, beef salad. Dine in or takeout. Food packs flavor. • Grapevine sabaisabaikitchen.site

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

Sea Siam Thai • Food captures essence of Thailand. Using fresh ingredients, traditional Thai cooking techniques, you can sip tea while browsing menu of the finest Thai foods. • Keller seasiamrestaurant.com

Sushi Dojo • Premier fast-casual sushi specializing in party trays, catering, and food truck service. Known for the sushi tacos and burritos. Delicious, affordable, high quality sushi. • Southlake sushidojodfw.com

Sushi Nomi • Modern Japanese, inventive sushi, ramen, teriyaki, plus beer and wine. Choose delicious lunch options like bento boxes, fried rice, sushi specials. • Fort Worth facebook.com/SushiNomiTexas

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

Thailicious • Authentic Thai, contemporary, relaxed environment. Soft shell crab, creamy curries, Crying Tiger and pad Thai. Try tom yum-inspired martinis and mojitos. • Southlake ThailiciousSouthlake.com

V’s House • Family-owned Vietnamese with upscale takes on classic dishes—plus surprises. Staples of Vietnamese cuisine—pho varieteies made in-house. Creative cocktail menu. • NRH vshouse.net

BAKERIES / BEVERAGES / TREATS / CATERING ............................

Alli’s Sweet Shop • Cake pops for celebrating or just because! They can deliver your bouquet like a florist and brighten the day of any recipient! Cookies, cakes, cupcakes, treats. • Southlake cakepopsbyalli.com

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

Bar or Brew • Everyone loves to celebrate and we make it easy with professionally trained, polished bartenders who provide 5-star experience— private events, coffee bars, mocktails, classes. • DFW barorbrew.com

Ben’s Cookies • Founded in 1983 in Oxford, England—lovingly brought to Texas! Freshly baked with chocolate chunks “not chips.” About making the best cookies they can, every single day. • Grapevine benscookies.us

Board + Brie • Curated noshables that pair perfectly with wine and talk. Cheese and charcuterie grazing boxes and boards, crowd-pleasing fare or feasts for one. Pick up, delivery, catering. • Roanoke boardbrie.com

Brew & Batter • Locally owned, stand alone house serving good coffee! Not to mention waffles! Two bases—cornbread and a liege waffle (European waffle made with yeast daily). • Grapevine brew-batter.business.site

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

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

Crumbl Cookies • Cookies delivered! Chocolate chip, sugar cookie— rotating key lime pie, salted caramel cheesecake, birthday cake, German chocolate. Open ‘til midnight! • Southlake & NRH crumblcookies.com

Dr. Sue’s Chocolate • Doctor by trade, master chocolatier at heart, Dr. Sue Williams crafts the finest chocolate specimens ever had—truffles, chocolate bark, chocolate bars. • Grapevine drsueschocolate.com

j FoodEase • Putting quality time back on the table for busy families by providing healthy, fresh meals delivered to you Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings. • Roanoke facebook.com/catering.social

Hey Sugar Candy Shop • Bulk candies and popcorn, 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—flavors like apple, pecan, buttermilk, banana cream. By the slice or whole (large or small rounds). Gluten free, vegan, paleo. • Grapevine judypie.com

Juice Junkies

• No need to be a health nut to appreciate juice blends, smoothies, whole food snacks and cold-brewed coffee drinks. Coldpressed. Restocked regularly. • Keller juicejunkies.com

Kindred Coffee Co. • Love for craft coffee and ommunity—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

Native Coffee + Kitchen • Refreshing, unapologetic interpretations of comfort food favs—pancakes, tacos, burgers and nachos—alongside coffee made with Texas-roasted bean. NFW nativeck.com

Nothing Bundt Cakes • Made fresh using eggs, butter, cream cheese. Bite-sized Bundtinis, single serving Bundtlets, 8” and 10” and doubletiered cakes. Daily samples! • Southlake nothingbundtcakes.com

Personalized Grazing • Specializing in customized charcuterie boards and personalizing your culinary experiences. Classes, gifts, filled and unfilled boards, custom boards. • Southlake personalizedgrazing.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

Sugar Llamas • Sip, slurp, scoop and sink your teeth into finger-licking indulgences. Your favorite donut shop, coffee house and ice cream parlor—all in one location! • Keller sugarllamas.com

Texas Harvest Pie Co. • Small pie shop feels like home. Lovingly crafted pies—apple, blueberry, buttermilk, key lime taste like grandmas if she’s an expert baker. • Keller texasharvestpie.wixsite.com/pies

Wine:30 • Wine bar. Texas wineries/wine makers, also wines from California, France, and Italy. A handful of locally brewed craft beers, flatbreads, charcuterie board pairings. • Roanoke w30.wine

BARBECUE

Back Forty Smokehouse • Brisket, ribs, full bar, outdoor patio, friendly service, locally owned. Back Forty is conveniently located next to the new Tex Rail train station. • NRH backfortysmokehouse.com

Feedstore BBQ • Quality meats and fresh veggies. Ridiculously good chopped beef, chicken, sausage and fall-off-the-bone ribs, fried okra, spicy beans and amazing rolls. • Southlake feedstorebbq.com

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

Meat U Anywhere BBQ • “Meating” your BBQ and catering needs. Slow smoked with seasoned oak and hickory. Exclusive sides and ultimate breakfast tacos. • Grapevine & Trophy Club meatuanywhere.com

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

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

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

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

Kassandra’s Mexican Kitchen • Hidden gem. Great lunch. Well-priced specials. Put it on your list for breakfast served all day. Breakfast quesadilla— a good reason to get up early! • Keller diningoption.com/Kassandras

Main Street Bistro & Bakery (Bistro M) • Local gem. Foodie following (and a Gallic accent). Chocolate bomb cake makes toes curl! Must-try pastries and desserts Best croissants. • Grapevine themainbakery.com

Mangos Breakfast Brunch • French toast, chicken, waffles, omelets. Out of the ordinary duck bacon burgers, s’mores waffles, skillets with chicken fried steak, stuffed avocados. • Southlake & Keller mangosbb.com

Oldwest Cafe • Big menu, big portions, good value. Saddle up that horse and hit the trail for Oldwest Cafe... pretty darn sure y’all might like it! Breakfast served all day long. • Grapevine oldwestcafe.us

Rush Bowls • Smoothies in a bowl with fruit and toppings—all-natural fruit and açai blended until thick and creamy. Healthy alternative dessert or a perfect meal. Perfect refueling stop. • Keller rushbowls.com

Seven Mile Café • Fans flock for specialty pancakes, Gouda grits, egg dishes, Stumptown coffee. Can’t go wrong with benedicts or pancake sampler. Vegan and gluten-free options. Keller & NFW sevenmilecafe.com

Stevie’s Diner • A unique, family-owned and operated throw back dining experience. Whether you’re in the mood for a delicious breakfast or lunch, head over to Stevie’s Diner. • NFW steviesdiner.com

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

Sunny Street Café • Serving hearty American fare—gluten-free options. Dine-in. Carry-out. Neighborhood destination for fresh, wholesome food and friendly service served daily. • Keller & NRH sunnystreetcafe.com

Townhouse Brunch • Twists on omelettes, benedicts, pancakes, salads, sandwiches. Sweet banana Nutella crepes or savory “everything spiced” avocado toast—cravings covered! • Colleyville townhousebrunch.com

BRITISH

From Across the Pond • British classics—fish and chips, bangers and mash, scotch eggs, proper British breakfast—plus burgers, sandwiches, pastas, salads from beyond the pond. • Colleyville acrossthepond.site

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

BURGERS / SANDWICHES

j Bohemian Bull Tavern & Beer Garden • Relax in a lively and open atmosphere. Fill your belly with hearty food—wash it down with craft beers, hand-selected bourbons and cocktails • Grapevine bohemianbull.com

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

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

Fred’s Texas Cafe • Nationally acclaimed hamburgers, fabulous chickenfried steak, the coldest beer in town—that’s Fred’s. A beloved local dive that’s serious about food! • NFW fredstexascafe.com

Hollywood’s Pour Shack • Comes alive when the sun sets! Cover bands and DJs. provide music at this big indoor/outdoor bar serving up burgers and drink specials. Your neighborhood bar. • Keller pourshack.com

j Hopdoddy Burger Bar • Irresistible food, fresh ingredients. Quality you can taste—hand-cut fries, craft drinks, milkshakes, three types of buns baked daily ! • Alliance & Euless hopdoddy.com

Kincaid’s Hamburgers • Meet here to eat—good ol’burgers, ice cream shakes, deviled eggs, stuffed jalepenos, fried okra, chicken sandwiches, banana pudding. • Southlake & Alliance kincaidshamburgers.com

LA Burger • Beautifully seared meat, oozy cheese, toasty buns—burgers executed with California flair. Tacos, fries, hot dogs, salads, shakes. Served counter-style multi-culti twist. • Keller & Grapevine la-burger.com

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

CAJUN ......................................................................................

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

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

j Krab Kingz Seafood • A fiesta of seafood. Cajun flavor. Kick back with jazz music and authentic Louisiana vibes. Freshest, most flavorful seafood you never knew you were missing! • NFW krabkingzftworth.com

GREEK / MEDITERRANEAN .........................................................

j Aladdin Mediterranean Café • Vibrant eatery and culinary journey through rich flavors of the Mediterranean. Beloved by food enthusiasts seeking authentic tastes. • NFW aladdinmedicafe.site

Café Medi • 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 & Hurst cafemedi.com

j Ferah Tex-Med Kitchen • Innovative fusion cuisine, paired with upscale ambiance and five-star service. Sunday brunch buffet , lunch specials and happy hour all day Mondays. • Southlake ferahtexmed.com

j Istanbul Cuisine Mediterranean Grill • Like in Sultans' Kitchen— serving genuine dishes like Turkish kebab, Greek salad, lamb shank, falafel balls. Eat well, grab a drink. • Southlake istanbulcuisinesouthlake.com

INDIAN

Mughlai Fine Indian Cuisine • Courtly cuisine of Mughal royalty— familiar dishes like lamb roghan josh, chicken tikka masala served alongside authentic Indian street fare. • Southlake mughlaidfw.com

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

j Acquario Italian Seafood • Where coastal Italy meets Texan flair— artistic symphony of coastal flavors incredibly fresh seafood harmonizing with steaks from Texas Ranchers. • Keller acquariorestaurant.com

Armend’s Restaurante • Family restaurant serving authentic Italian dishes including made-from-scratch pizzas, home-style pastas, traditional Italian chicken, seafood and veal dishes. • Southlake armendspizza.com

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.” • NRH, North Fort Worth bossespizza.com

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

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 atmosphere. • Southlake ilcalabrese.com

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. They have plenty of that as well! • Southlake coalvinespizza.com

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

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

Ferrari’s Italian Villa & Chop House • Beautiful banquet and private dining. Bountiful antipasti bar. Roasted entrées from the wood fired oven. Desserts prepared tableside. • Grapevine ferrarisrestaurant.com

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

Grimaldi’s Pizzeria • Brooklyn’s iconic pizza has 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

i Fratelli Pizza • Distinctive thin-n-crispy pizza, handmade sauces, dressings, dessert—local favorite for 30 years. Delivery exceedes expectations with fast exemplary delivery. • Southlake, Keller, NFW ifratelli.net

Jonny’s Pizza • At Jonny's, 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

Inzo Italian Kitchen • Old-world menu with new-world accent. Using fresh ingredients and doing things the way Nonna did years ago. One taste is all it takes to be amazed. • Roanoke inzoitalian.com

Loveria Caffe • Emilia-Romagna is Italy’s premier destination for food lovers—pasta, cured meat, cheese, wine, meatballs, lasagna, eggplant parm perfected centuries before landing here. • Colleyville loveriacaffe.com

Napoli’s Italian Café & Creamery • Italian-America classics in Historic Grapevine Main Street setting. Linger in or drop by the creamery for freshly made gelato and Italian desserts. • Grapevine napolisgrapevine.com

Oliva Italian Eatery • Italian staples rendered with verve—spaghetti and meatballs, lobster ravioli, featured items. Expertly curated wines at a remarkable value. • North Fort Worth olivaeatery.com

Palio’s Pizza Cafe • Food tastes better—they swear it’s better for you with fresh ingredients made-from-scratch. Pizzas with pesto, artichoke hearts, chicken and mushrooms. • Keller, NFW & Roanoke paliospizzacafe.com

j Postino • Wine Cafe menu that satisfies all your cravings—paninis, bruschettas, charcuterie boards, sharable “Snacky Things,” salads, desserts. OMG grilled cheese pairs perfect! • Southlake postinowinecafe.com

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

Vinny’s Italian Restaurant • Good food, great people—it’s like being invited to your Italian uncle’s house for dinner. Serving authentic New York style pizza and authentic Italian classics. • Trophy Club vinnysitalian.site

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

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

LATIN AMERICAN

Boca 31 • Drawing from Mexico, Peru, Caribbean, Americas—elevating street food. Barbacoa tacos, pulled pork, guava and cream cheese empanada. Anything but standard. • Keller boca31.com/keller

Del Campo Empanadas • Empanadas with savories like chicken, ham, spinach, picanha steak. Dipped in chimichurri. No-fuss meal. Grab-andgok. Sweet treats here also. • Fort Worth delcampoempanadas.com

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

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

Baja Cantina • Coastal Mexican 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

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 & NFW cristinasmex.com

Elote Mexican Kitchen • Little taqueria with style. Slow roasted meats, fresh ingredients, marvelous margaritas. Menu is gluten-free (except flour tortillas). Plus soy cheese and tofu sour cream. • NFW elotemex.com

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

Esparza’s Restaurante Mexicano • Possibly coolest patio scene in DFW. Feast on Mexican classics—don’t miss out on their famous margaritas, fajitas or authentic Mexican favorites. • Grapevine esparzastexas.com

Fresco’s • Vibrant joint serving traditional Mexican dishes and TexMex using quality ingredients. Unmistakable flavor and freshness. Great margaritas and tortilla soup. • Watauga frescosmexicanfood.com

Los Molcajetes • Warm tortilla chips and red or green salsa, sizzling fajitas, margaritas, sopapillas, flan or fried ice cream—the ultimate Mexican comfort food! • Roanoke & NFW losmolcajetes.com

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

Mesa • Elevated coastal cuisine in bright, elegant space to match vibrant, upscale menu. Magic touch with seafood, including lobster enchiladas, Mexican gumbo, chipotle shrimp. • Grapevine mesagrapevine.com

Mesero • Beyond Tex Mex—lives up to Mexican Spirit American Life motto. One taste of the iconic Queso Mesero and brisket tacos will keep you coming back... don’t skip their amazing drinks! • Southlake mesero.net

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

Mi Dia From Scratch • Traditional Mexico City with modern Santa Fe and Tex Mex flavors. Fusion of the past and present. Fresh ideas, authentic ingredients, skillfully prepared. • Grapevine midiafromscratch.com

Zafiros Mexican Grill y Cantina • Finest expressions of scratch-kitchen ingredients, championing modern cuisine and seasonality to create bright, fresh flavors of Mexican cooking. Great patio. • Colleyville zafirostx.com

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

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

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

The Crab Station • 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

Fish City Grill • 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

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

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

j Shell Shack • Known for its signature and fully customizable seafood boils. Shell Shack sources the best seafood available, including Opilio and Bairdi snow crab at the best possible prices. • NFW shellshack.com

Shuck Me • Seafood spot with fried baskets, peel-and-eat shrimp, po-boys, crawfish, oysters, gumbo. Big portions. Plenty to choose from— perfect seafood fix at great prices! • Southlake & Alliance shuckme.net

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

STEAKS

Bob’s Steak and Chop House • 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

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

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

Dino’s Steak & Claw House • Serving a variety of seafood, steak and poultry dishes in a vintage bank building along historic Main Street. Romantic spot. Live piano music. • Grapevine dinossteakandclaw.net

j Firebirds Wood Fired Grill • Top-notch service—upscale dining at a modest price. Bold flavors, inviting atmosphere, hand-cut, aged steaks, seafood, cocktails, wines, happy hour. • NFW firebirdsrestaurants.com

Keller Chophouse • Elegant dine in, caterings, charcuterie, fine wine and drink selection, happy hour. Roster of seafood, chicken, steaks—New York strip, bone-in ribeye, filet mignon. • Keller kellerchophouse.com

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

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

Old Hickory Steakhouse • Dine in warm, rich atmosphere of Texas wine cellar. Savor finest cuts of beef and seafood paired with artisanal cheese. Extensive wine list. • Inside Gaylord Texan Resort gaylordtexan.com

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

Sweetie Pies Ribeyes • Steaks are cooked “Old Style” meaning the steak is fresh-cut, seasoned and seared at 550 degrees—locking in natural juices! Big menu well beyond steaks or burgers. • NRH sweetiepiesribeyes.com

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

Submit your favorite dining spots for consideration to be listed free in Top Tables. Send the restaurant name and location so our foodies can check it out. Email requested info to: societylifemag@verizon.net. Bon appetit!

EasterTreats

Treat Them toEaster Goodies

Don’t let the Easter Bunny have all the fun! Treat your guests to chocolate goodies for an eggs-tra fun way to celebrate Easter. Grab your little chefs and let them help!

SL EasterTreats

Chocolate Peanut Butter Eggs

If you love Reese’s like I do, you will love this delicious homemade peanut butter candy. The filling is very reminiscent of a Reese’s peanut butter. It’s smooth, creamy and delicious! Enrobed in chocolate, these eggs are the epitome of peanut butter goodness. This would be a darling thing to let kiddos help decorate on Easter weekend. I kept mine plain chocolate (some smooth, some with a drizzle) but these would be just as cute with brightly colored sprinkles. The yield will depend on how big your egg cookie cutter is, but I got 13 large eggs. Cut out what you can from the dough, then gather the scraps and pat into another small square to get a couple more eggs.

INGREDIENTS

1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted

3/4 cup creamy peanut butter

2 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted

2 Tbsp 1% milk

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

1 Tbsp shortening

(1) Using a handheld mixer, beat powdered sugar, peanut butter, and butter. Add milk and vanilla and mix well.

(2) Transfer dough to wax paper and form a 8×8 inch square. Slide a small cookie sheet under the wax paper and freeze for 60-90 minutes.

(3) While the dough is in the freezer, gently melt chocolate chips with shortening on the stove or in the microwave at low heat, whisking every thirty seconds.

(4) Working quickly, use an egg cookie cutter to cut dough into eggs.

(5) Set each egg one at a time on a fork and drizzle melted chocolate on top, using the back of the spoon to coat the edges. Quickly dunk the bottom into the chocolate to coat the bottom, then use the spoon to push the egg off the fork and onto wax paper. Repeat with remaining eggs. Let set until chocolate has solidified. Store in an airtight container at room temperature (or in the fridge on hot day).

SL EasterTreats

Easter Bird’s Nest Cupcakes

CUPCAKE INGREDIENTS (Makes 24)

2 cups sugar

These are the cutest Easter cupcakes! My Easter Bird’s Nest Cupcakes are as delicious as they are adorable. Your little sous chefs will love helping you decorate these chocolate cupcakes. I topped my favorite chocolate cupcakes with chocolate frosting bird’s nest by using a Wilton 233 grass tip. When swirled in circles on top of a cupcake, it makes a cute little nest that you can fill with chocolate robin’s eggs. These are perfect for Easter, but honestly would be cute served at any spring gathering such as a garden party. The frosting method is so simple! Watch me decorate them at therosetable.com. So quick and so easy and who doesn’t love a perfect, fudge-y chocolate cupcake?

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

3/4 cup dark cocoa powder

(I use Hershey’s Special Dark)

1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

2 eggs

1 cup 1% milk

1/2 cup vegetable oil

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 cup boiling water

The Best Chocolate Frosting, recipe below 72 mini chocolate eggs (I used Whoppers robin eggs)

(1) Preheat oven to 350°F. Line two muffin cup pans with cupcake liners and spray each with non-stick spray.

(2) Combine sugar, flour, dark cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda and salt in large mixing bowl. Add eggs one at a time and mix until incorporated. Add milk, oil and vanilla all at once and beat on medium speed of mixer about two minutes. Stir in the boiling water. Fill cupcake liners about 2/3 full.

(3) Bake 20 to 25 minutes or until wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes; remove from pans to wire racks. Cool completely.

(4) Make chocolate frosting according to directions below. Spoon into a piping bag fitted with a Wilton 233 grass tip. Pipe a bit of frosting in the center of the cupcakes, then in circles to build up a nest. Add three robins egg chocolates in the center of each nest.

THE BEST CHOCOLATE FROSTING INGREDIENTS

6 Tbsp unsalted buter, softened

2 2/3 cups powdered sugar

1/2 cup dark cocoa powder

1/3 cup milk

1 tsp vanilla extract

(1) Beat softened butter until light and creamy.

(2) Sift powdered sugar and cocoa powder together.

(3) Add powder sugar and cocoa powder to butter alternately with milk, beating after each addition until smooth. Add vanilla and beat well. Add another tablespoon or two of milk if needed to achieve a creamy, whipped texture.

SL EasterTreats

Easter Bark

This Easter Bark is so easy to make and fun for kids to decorate. I used chocolate mini robins egg Whoppers and colorful sprinkles in my Easter Bark for a quick and easy Easter treat. The quality of chocolate is very important here because it’s pretty much all chocolate! I’m such a Ghirardelli girl, but use whatever high quality chocolate you love. Melt the chocolate in the microwave at half power or in a double boiler on the stove, then spread the chocolate out on wax paper or a silicone mat and decorate. A few fun variations to this recipe — add chopped Oreo cookies, nuts, coconut, or even shredded coconut. If you’d like, you could also melt 8 ounces of white chocolate, then swirl it into the dark chocolate for a pretty effect. There are so many variations that will make this easy Easter dessert all your own!

INGREDIENTS

12 oz semi-sweet baking chocolate

1 cup mini chocolate eggs

Sprinkles

(1) Chop baking chocolate and melt in a double boiler or in the microwave at half power, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth and glossy.

(1) Spread melted chocolate in a 9×12″ rectangle on a baking sheet lined with wax paper or a silicone baking mat. Decorate with mini chocolate eggs and sprinkles as desired.

(1) Refrigerate the bark for 45 minutes or until set, then break into pieces and enjoy! Store in at room temperature in an airtight container.

SL WhereLocalsGo

REVIEW BY JENNIFER SLOAN

foodease

Good food in Dallas Fort Worth is easy to come by. Good food with a good story behind it is a little harder.

When I first started college at UNT, I lived with my parents in Southlake and made the commute. This was many moons ago and the absolute disaster we call FM377 today was a quiet, lesser traveled road. I could make it from our neighborhood to the parking garage outside of the RTVF building in about 40 minutes. I took this road less traveled hundreds of times in my four(ish) years in college so much so that I could pretty much do it with my eyes closed. While a lot has changed, a lot has remained the same. There is still that place that sells old boats and the restaurant with a broke down wagon upfront. And the strip mall with Runyon’s. One afternoon, some time last year, I was stuck in traffic outside of said strip mall and

just happened to notice one of the signs was newer than the rest—FoodEase. Being your “man on the street” for all things food, I felt it my duty to look. And, what I found would be absolutely life-changing for this tired mama.

FoodEase is a family-owned and operated dinner delivery service. It all started when owner Kristi Teames was simply helping out a friend who was extremely busy running multiple kids to different extracurricular activities each evening. Tired of hitting the drive through every night and longing to give her family nutritious homecooked food, she asked Kristi if she could piggyback off the meals Kristi was already preparing for her own family. Helping one friend turned into helping two, and the rest is history.

Here’s how it works. You connect with Kristi via text, phone call or Facebook. She will then add you to her weekly text distribution list. On Sunday nights, Kristi texts out the menu for the following Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday nights. Each meal comes with a meat, a vegetable, a salad and a starch and is available in 4 person and 6 person portions. For my family of three, a “4 pack” ends up being enough for dinner and for the two adults to have a generous lunch the next day. Four packs are

$60 and 6 packs are $80. The menu is different every week and you won’t have the same entrée twice in a month. A recent favorite of mine was the crustless taco pie served with a side of Mexican street corn, a wedge salad with cilantro ranch, and chips and fresh made salsa. A recent favorite for my husband was the buffalo chicken enchiladas served with black beans, roasted veggies and a traditional wedge with avocado.

FoodEase is a small operation. There are two chefs, Kristi and her husband John, and 5 drivers. “John and I are the owners/chefs and we do everything from cooking to balancing books and everything in between,” says Kristi. “We even hand select all of our food products and only provide the best ingredients we can find.” What that means for their customers is they are always in direct contact with the person preparing the food. You can’t say that about Uber Eats or Doordash! “When you sign up for our distribution list, you will always order directly through me,” says Kristi. “I personally know

and interact with every single one of our families. I think that is huge for customer service—especially in today’s world where so many businesses fail to make you a top priority!”

Truly, I can’t say enough good things about FoodEase. The food is delicious and it’s a balanced meal. They are meals I look forward to and they make me feel good. If you are very “on-thego” and can’t be home at your delivery time, you can leave a cooler or provide access to a garage fridge. I can’t tell you how good it feels to know that I will come home to my dinner being ready to pull out of our garage fridge, take inside and plate. It’s given me so much time back—less time at the grocery store, less time cooking, less time meal planning and more time with my daughter and husband.

“We are so blessed to be able to help people while also doing something we absolutely love,” admits Kristi. “We love to cook and we love helping busy families spend more quality time together over healthy, delicious food.”