SL contents NOVEMBER 2023
SOCIETY LIFE
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exclusive features
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26
35
46
Cover
Style
Holiday
Family
SEASON TO SHINE XAR CLOTHIER
TRENDING FW23 FALL/WINTER
PUT A BOW ON IT GIFT GUIDES
FAMILY-FRIENDLY FESTIVITIES
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contents NOVEMBER 2023
departments
80
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Editor Talk
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EDITOR’S LETTER
FatherHood
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HIS PERSPECTIVE: FATHERHOOD STORIES
FaithFull SHARING GOD’S LOVE
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64
Wanderlust
Cover2Cover
TEXAS TRAVEL & BEYOND
PUBLISHED PEOPLE
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15
DateBook
TidBits
SAVE THE DATE
A SMALL PART OF A BIGGER STORY
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6 Questions
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CWC HOLIDAY HOME TOUR
TidBits Feature GAYLORD TEXAN ICE!
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Top Tables
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RESTAURANT LISTINGS
Greater Good THE HEALING HOUSE
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Rose Table Recipe
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GOAT CHEESE BEET STACKS
Momilies
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BECAUSE I SAID SO
Where Locals Go BOHEMIAN BULL TAVERN & BEER GARDEN 6
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46 Society Life is printed on recycled paper. Our printing company is a member of PIA/GATF. They print on PCW (Post Consumer Waste) recycled papers using inks that contain soy, putting less VOC’s into the air. We aim to make our footprint as small as possible in the course of our business practice. This magazine or its trademarks may not be reproduced in whole or in part in any form or means electronic or mechanical without written permission from the publisher. All advertising will be placed using the editor’s discretion. Society Life reserves the right to refuse advertising for any reason. Society Life magazine, its publishing company and any individuals involved in the production of Society Life are not liable for loss or harm incurred by an organization/individual by the publishing of any ad, information or story. Advertising copy, contracts and orders are subject to the publishers acceptance.Cancellation or changes are not accepted after deadlines. The publisher reserves the right to repeat the last printed advertisement if a replacement is not received by each deadline. All content is researched and verified to the best of the editorial staff’s ability at the time of printing.
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SL EditorTalk A TIME TO CELEBRATE Thanksgiving reminds us to be grateful and have gratitude for our blessings—no matter how many or how few. There is always something to be thankful for... we just have to look for it. And, Christmas reminds us to celebrate. Remember when we were children how magical the holiday season was—we didn’t have to look for reasons to celebrate. It just came naturally. It is afterall the holy season of remembering and celebrating the birth of Jesus. It’s a time to be near the manger with gratitude for God’s mercy—that alone is reason to celebrate. As I have gotten older, traditions have become more and more important to my holidays. Carrying on some traditions allows me to feel close to those I have lost who started them or made them special each year. My family has adopted many local traditions with the holiday happenings we have here in our part of North Texas. This community has so many annual holiday traditions that we missed during the pandemic, and I’m pleased to say that many have returned. Including the return of the 35th Colleyville Women’s Club Holiday Home Tour (details starting on page 70). Many locals have considered this CWC Holiday Home Tour the start of their season so it will be wonderful to have it back this year. We have also featured our annual “FamilyFriendly Festivities” to kick off our local holiday celebrations (see page 46 for the listings). Peruse our “Holiday Gift Guides” for all of those special people and pets in your life (see page 35 in this issue). And, don’t miss our cover story with XAR Clothier founder Roy Rizwan. His gentlemen’s shop and ladies boutique in Southlake Town Square curates some of the most sought-after brands for dressing up for holiday gatherings (page 22). We have collaborated with Roy to feature some of the designer lines he carries in our fashion feature in this issue as well. If you’re looking for something special to wear or gift this season stop in and tell him Society Life Magazine sent you (flip to page 26 to see our style editorial). When this magazine gets delivered to my house, my kids and I will plan all of the holiday festivities we want to attend this year. And as usual, they will check out my gift guides in this issue to try to figure out what gifts listed in them I am getting for them this year. Somehow I unequivocally end up with a lot of them under my tree for them! I hope this issue helps you enjoy your holidays, too. Having an attitude of gratitude and celebrating the season is what it’s all about. May you enjoy the many gifts of Christmas! ELENA ELLIS Publisher / Editorial Director elena@societylifemagazine.com let’s get social @ SocietyLifeMag
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SL FaithFull
S T R E N G T H E N Y O U R R E L AT I O N S H I P W I T H G O D A N D L I V E A F U L F I L L I N G , FA I T H F U L C H R I S T I A N L I F E BY T RIS HA MIT CHELL
“This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”
— Psalms 118:24
‘Tis the season to be thankful and grateful. Normally, as the holidays approach, many are filled with joy and cheerfulness. And while these emotions may come easy for most of us, some can find it difficult to be thankful when surrounded by a spirit of heaviness. Whatever distressing situations we may encounter, we can “counterattack” those feelings of gloom by choosing to have a positive attitude. Besides, it’s a lot easier to have an attitude of gratitude when we reflect on how blessed we really are. Such was the case of King David. When examining the life of David, we discover a man after God’s own heart (Acts 13:22). A king whose entire essence taught us the importance of praise and worship—a faithful, yet flawed man who cried out to God in good times and in trouble, and a soldier who encouraged us throughout the book of Psalms to praise God for who He is and what He has done. One of the most admirable qualities of David was his transparency and disposition when admitting his shortcomings (murder, adultery). His life consistently reminded us of God’s willingness to forgive once we realigned our life to Him. David tried to stay mindful of the things of God, and though he was deeply remorseful about his sin, he never wallowed in it. He made sure to repent immediately, allowing him to serve the Lord with his whole heart, and to genuinely express his gratefulness for God’s steadfast love (Psalms 107:1) by crying out to Him daily (Psalms 22:1-2). Throughout the entire book of Psalms, we see repeated verses intended to uplift our spirits. And although the book of Psalms is known for offering praise and thanksgiving to God, there are many passages throughout the Bible that focus on gratitude. Colossians 3:17 encourages us to “do everything in the name of Jesus out of a spirit of gratefulness.” Ephesians 5:20 says we should “give thanks always and for everything to God.” And 1 Thessalonians 5:18 urges us to “thank God in everything” [no matter the circumstances,
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be thankful and give thanks], for this is the will of God for us.” Bear in mind, we are not to give thanks for everything. Rather, give thanks in everything. There’s a difference. We can be thankful even in suffering (Romans 5:3-5), yet not be thankful for the suffering. James 1:2-4 explains, we should “consider” our circumstances as joyful even when they are not. All the while permitting our faith, endurance, and patience to be developed. With so much going on in the world, it’s easy to forget how blessed we really are. Rather than meditate and focus on all the negativity, we should follow the instructions of Ephesians 4:23 and be renewed in the spirit of our minds. We accomplish this by saturating our thoughts with Philippians 4:8. It tells us to think on “whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” Does this mean we have to
“practice” gratitude in order for it to become consistent in our life? A lifestyle? Absolutely! And that’s exactly what King David did. The book of Psalms serves as a hymnbook for the Believer. It provides countless testimonies to assist us in how to offer a sacrificial praise to God. Thankfulness draws us closer to God, Who has given us [absolutely] everything necessary to live a life of godliness (2 Peter 1:3). When we recognize just how fortunate we are, we’re able to appreciate how faithful He is. As we near the holiday season, let us draw near to God, so that He can draw near to us (James 4:8). Let’s follow the example of David and give thanks to the LORD with our whole heart, “recount all of His wonderful deeds” and “…be glad and sing praise to His name” (Psalm 9:12). May we each declare to “delight ourselves in the Lord” and watch Him gift us the desires [the secret petitions] of our heart” (Psalms 37:4). — Happy Holidays!
Having an Attitude of Gratitude
———————————————————————— PUBLISHER / CREATIVE DIRECTOR ELENA ELLIS 817.657.2948 ELENA@societylifemagazine.com ———————————————————————— ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR SARAH SCHILLO 817.914.8013 SARAH@societylifemagazine.com ———————————————————————— ADVERTISING SALES DEBBIE ROACH 817.715.5760 DEBBIE@societylifemagazine.com KIMBERLEY VINES 940.782.9448 KIMBERLEY@societylifemagazine.com ———————————————————————— ADMINISTRATION CINDIA LEE DISTRIBUTION EMIL CARL PRODUCTION CHERYL RYBKA ———————————————————————— PHOTOGRAPHERS VERA CROSBY LORRAINE HAAN-STEWART ALYCIA SAVAGE ———————————————————————— COLUMNISTS / WRITERS KAREN CHANEY SANDY LOWE MARY MACDOWELL TRISHA MITCHELL JON SALINSKY SHANNON SALINSKY JESSICA SERNA JENNIFER SLOAN KATIE-ROSE WATSON ———————————————————————— INTERESTED IN FREELANCE OPPORTUNITIES? Society Life Magazine is always on the lookout for talented writers and photographers to join our team. If you are interested in learning more, please call or email the publisher at contact above. ———————————————————————— SocietyLifeMagazine.com Started May 2006 © 2023 Caye Publishing Group, Inc. ———————————————————————— SocietyLifeMag.com
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SL Cover2Cover
RIPE READS BOOK REVIEWS BY SANDY LOWE
Take a trip back to ancient times and meet characters that will warm your heart in the coming of age novel Emara’s Challenge by Monica Flores. At age 16, Emara must choose between marriage or joining (as it is called in her culture) or face The Challenge—a wilderness trek from which no woman has ever returned alive (although she finds out later in the book that this is not strictly true.) Emara doesn’t feel she is ready for marriage, so she begins to prepare mentally to face this daunting physical experience. Her parents, the king and queen of Uthal, express disappointment at her choice, but they aren’t aware that Emara’s four brothers have trained her as a warrior. She is much more prepared for this kind of ordeal than they understand.
Emara’s Challenge
The loving and affectionate families you will meet in this novel make it a tender read. It is acknowledged that not all families enjoy such closeness, but the main characters enjoy the wisdom, encouragement, and support of their parents and siblings. Emara’s next cultural rite called the Journey, sets aside time for the mothers and
daughters to spend together before the daughters are introduced to the community as eligible for joining. The tradition involves a trip from the city of Uthal, where Emara has grown up, to Arnac, the city of women. Along the way, Gadianton robbers attack the group. They throw the company into chaos and kill several before they retreat. Ammon, prince of the city of Xenu, arrives in the nick of time to save Emara. He expresses a strong interest in her—which she finds very annoying. And he calls her “Emmy,” the nickname she allows only her four brothers to use. After arriving at Arnac, Ammon and Emara both volunteer for a supply run outside the city. They are again attacked. Emara suffers serious injuries. This results in Ammon and Emara alone in the wilderness, where they begin to learn a great deal more about each other. Many more trials await Ammon and Emara on their journey. While some of the characters may seem a little too good to be true, and the dialogue occasionally sounds a bit clunky, the story held my interest to the very end.
A woman determined to make her own choices. A man who wants to be part of those decisions.
Trained by her brothers for combat and by her mother to be queen, Emara is willing to take the risk of the Challenge’s fight for survival
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: As a child, Monica Flores hated reading and all things that fall under the subject of English. She didn’t become a bookworm until she was a teenager, when introduced to Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. Since that time, Monica has become an avid reader. During the day, she works as a nurse at the county hospital. She enjoys serving in her church and her community, spending time with her friends and family, doing family history work, eating chocolate and, of course, reading books. You can purchase a copy of her novel Emara’s Challenge on Amazon.com.
Are you a published author who lives in Dallas-Fort Worth and would like your book considered for a review, please email: elena@societylifemagazine.com
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———————————————————————— ———————————————————————— PHOTOGRAPHY ....... Alycia Savage, Savage Studio PICTURED .................................... XAR Clothier Gentlemen’s Shop and Ladies Boutique Founder Roy Rizwan | xarclothier.com 1253 Main Street, Southlake Town Square ———————————————————————— SOCIAL MEDIA
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A SMALL PART OF A BIGGER STORY
TidBits NEW DEVELOPMENT OF KELLY RANCH GOLF CLUB
FOUNDER MEMBERSHIPS AND HOMESITES NOW AVAILABLE
EXHIBITION PREMIER NOV. 30
GALLERY 19C
Please join us on Thursday, November 30th from 6-8pm for the exhibition premier of ‘The Nazarenes: Germany’s 19th Century Avant-Garde Artists.’ Enjoy live piano music, wine and hors d’oeuvres as you explore Gallery 19C—an international gallery in Westlake focusing exclusively on the 19th century. Founders, Eric Weider and Polly Sartori, represent a unique combination of expertise and passion for the 19th century. No one is better positioned to serve today’s passionate collector by introducing them to the quality, variety and diversity of the spectacular 19th century. Gallery 19C is located at 1500 Solana Boulevard in Building 5, Suite 5150 in Westlake, Texas 76262. The new exhibition will run November 29, 2023 to January 31, 2024. It will feature works of art including ‘The Triumph of Christ by Joseph von Führich’ (above). For more details about Gallery 19C, please visit:
Kelly Ranch developers are pleased to announce their partnership with Escalante Golf, a boutique owner-operator of golf clubs and resorts nationwide is behind Texas’ newest private golf club being developed in the Aledo—one of the hottest new-build luxury markets in North Texas. The Fort Worth-based company is honored to work in its own backyard to create one of the most sought-after golf club memberships in the state. Located just 20 minutes outside of downtown Fort Worth, the exquisite Kelly Ranch Golf Club lies at the heart of the master-planned-community Kelly Ranch. This exclusive gem will feature an 18-hole championship golf course that meanders through picturesque rolling hills. With a staggering 200-foot elevation change across the property, this course is destined to captivate golf enthusiasts and be a premier destination for those seeking world-class golfing adventures. Kelly Ranch Golf Club is part of the prestigious 2,500-acre master-planned community known as Kelly Ranch and the Development will feature three distinctive single family home neighborhoods: Kelly Ranch Estates, Rio Vista, and La Dorada—all dedicated to offering the epitome of high-end luxury living. Kelly Ranch will consist of over 2,500 luxury production and custom homes ranging from $600,000 to $6,000,000+. In addition to the private 18hole golf course, Kelly Ranch Golf Club’s planned amenities include a golf clubhouse, sports club, state-of-the-art driving range and short game area, allowing members to practice every facet of their game on true course-like conditions. A limited number of Founder memberships for Kelly Ranch Golf Club have officially been released. Kelly Ranch is not just about extraordinary residential living, it will also offer the perfect blend of residential and commercial spaces. Whether you’re looking for a full-time residence, a place to raise a family in Aledo ISD or a second home getaway, Kelly Ranch has something for everyone. For homesites and commercial opportunities, please contact Hammond Eagle Realty: kellyranchgolfclub.com (or) hammondeagle.com
——––———————————————–—— gallery19c.com
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SL TidBits
MUSCLES & BOSTONS 2024 FUNDRAISING CALENDAR Boston Terrier Rescue of North Texas is proud to announce pre-sale of their 2024 BTRNT Calendar. The theme this year is: “Muscles & Bostons.” Each month, including the cover, has been professionally photographed by their amazing volunteer and super-foster Lorraine Haan-Stewart. “We are soooo excited about this year’s calendar and hope that you are too!” All net proceeds from the sale of this calendar help to continue their mission to rescue Boston Terriers in need. Boston Terrier Rescue of North Texas is a modest rescue, and they make every dollar count! BTRNT could not exist without the help from their amazing fosters, volunteers, and donors! As a private, nonprofit organization, they rely on the assistance of caring and hard-working individuals in all areas of the rescue. “Our organization works tirelessly to care for the homeless and abandoned. We are dedicated to giving every animal the best opportunity for a wonderful future. Without you we could not exist—which means our rescues would not have a chance” This calendar offers hope, love, and support to so many deserving rescues that need help! .................................................................. PRE-SALE PRICE .................... $20/each .................................................................. PRE-SALE ENDS: 12/15/23 at Midnight .................................................................. PRICE STARTING 12/16/23 .... $25/each .................................................................. ESTIMATED SHIPPING BEGINS: ................................................. 12/20/23 Purchase your 2024 calendar now at: ——————————————————— btrnt.com SocietyLifeMag.com
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SL TidBits
GRACE GRAPEVINE NEW CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER GRACE is honored to welcome Rebecca Cox as its Chief Executive Officer—only the third person to hold the post in its 36-year history. Ms. Cox brings 23 years of experience helping people in our community. Her life’s been dedicated to serving those facing poverty, homelessness, and resource scarcity. Most recently, she served as CEO of Victory Therapy Center—an equine-assisted therapy agency for special needs kids, adults and military veterans. Ms. Cox holds a Master’s Degree in Nonprofit Management Administration and in Social Work from The University of Texas at Arlington. “I am beyond excited to be joining GRACE, and to serve alongside the amazing good that happens there every day,” said Ms. Cox. “I look forward to where God will bring us.” While she will assume the post of Chief Executive Officer of GRACE formally on Monday, December 4, she was the guest of honor at the November all-staff meeting. In her address to the staff, Ms. Cox said she owed much of her success in prior roles to her servant leadership style and collaborative spirit. “My passion always has been, and always will be empowering those who are struggling in need and to see them not only survive, but thrive.” One of Ms. Cox’s first official acts will be to preside over the Open House of the GRACE Christmas Cottage on Monday, December 4. The public is welcomed to join at the Cottage Open House. For more information, please contact Anni Hengesbach-Gomes, GRACE Volunteer and Public Relations Coordinator, at (817) 305-4655, or email agomes@gracegrapevine.org. ——————————————————— gracegrapevine.org SocietyLifeMag.com
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SL TidBits
Grinch ICE!
Gaylord Texan’s 20th Annual Lone Star Christmas
ICE!, the annual holiday tradition at Gaylord Hotels, returns November 10, 2023, through December 31, 2023. Using the annual more than two million pounds (or 1,000 tons) of ice, the beloved holiday classic will be brought to life in ice sculpture form by a team of 40 world-class ice artisans from Harbin, China. Get your hats and gloves ready for this year’s chilly walk-through attraction that will feature 10 scenes from the iconic Dr. Seuss story — with characters like The Grinch, of course, as well as his dog Max, Cindy-Lou, and many festive Whos from Who-ville.
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“W Starting with more than 6,000 massive ice blocks, the carvers work over 12,000 man-hours to create the nearly 17,000square-foot frozen attraction. The artisans, using skills passed down through generations, follow a 300-page design book to create the ice spectacle. Ice carvings range in size from details tiny as a coin to soaring scenes more than 30-feet tall. The environment is kept frozen by a state-of-the-art chilling system keeping it at a wintery 9 degrees Fahrenheit to keep the ice intact. Guests sport Gaylord’s complimentary blue parkas to stay warm and are encouraged to dress in coldweather clothing. The carvers will travel nearly 6,000 miles from their homes in Harbin, China, to Grapevine, Texas. Known as “Ice City,” Harbin is home to the world’s largest annual ice and snow sculpting festival. At Gaylord Texan, some of the same artisans who create the Harbin festival will carve 300-pound blocks of ice into the larger-than-life scenes. Carvers use chisels, chippers, tongs, handsaws, grinders and chainsaws to bring “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” to life!
e look forward to welcoming families who make it a tradition to come every year, as well as those visitors coming for the very first time, to enjoy our magical holiday experiences, shared Chuck Pacioni, GM of Gaylord Texan Resort. In addition to the amazing ice sculptures, guests can take rides down the two-story-tall ice slides and traverse through ice tunnels and arches. ICE! is only one of the festive events taking place at Gaylord Texan’s 20th annual Lone Star Christmas. Other activities include: ——————————————————————————–— On The Blocks Exclusive bar inside ICE! for adults 21+ to upgrade and enjoy one select beverage — unique VIP experience with ambient lighting, music, photo ops. ——————————————————————————–— Snow Flow Mountain Zoom down 8-lane tubing hill, covered in real snow with thrilling fun for all ages. Race to the bottom with unlimited runs on your ticket date. ——————————————————————————–— Ice Skating 6,000-square-foot skating rink made with real ice for a yuletide glide. ——————————————————————————–— Cirque: Spirit of Christmas Cirque-styled Christmas show and Broadway-style spectacle featuring dazzling acrobatics, feats of flexibility, and high-flying stunts. ——————————————————————————–— Snowball Build & Blast With Christmas magic you get real snowballs in Texas! Get a tub of snow, then build and toss real snowballs at the snowmaking machines. ——————————————————————————–— Gingerbread Decorating Corner Let your Christmas creativity run wild when you adorn tasty gingerbread, then meet Nutmeg — our very own gingerbread man. ——————————————————————————–— Feast with The Grinch Character Breakfast Join the Grinch and his favorite canine companion, Max, for a special character dining experience at Texan Station. ——————————————————————————–— Grinch’s Wonderful Awful Idea Scavenger Hunt Grinch hid clues all over the resort. Find clues, solve riddles, complete quest and get a special stocking stuffer. ——————————————————————————–— Build-A-Bear Workshop Personalizing furry friends, add adorable outfits, sweet scents and fun sounds to make a furry friend the perfect gift or Christmas keepsake! ——————————————————————————–— #LIT Light Show Lone Star Atrium comes to life with thousands of dancing lights synchronized to a high-energy, seasonal soundtrack for a glowing holiday spectacle. ——————————————————————————–— Photos with Santa Nothing beats a personal visit with Santa Claus to let him know what you want for Christmas and capture the moment with a keepsake photo. ——————————————————————————–— Christmas Carousel Get in the holiday spirit by taking a spin on this timeless, family-friendly ride. You can enjoy endless fun with your unlimited ride ticket! ——————————————————————————–— Elf Training Academy Learn secrets of becoming one of Santa’s helpers from his top toy maker! Then, you can create a keepsake gift or craft for someone special. ——————————————————————————–— Mrs. Claus’ Christmas Traditions Delight in the retelling of a Christmas classic, sing along to holiday songs, and enjoy Santa’s favorite snack — cookies and milk. ——————————————————————————–— Holiday Heist Escape Room In this escape room, Christmas must be saved, and Santa’s Chief Elf has sent you to the Heister's lair to recover the artifact just in time! ——————————————————————————–—
Visitors will be dazzled by awe-inspiring holiday décor in the resort’s 4-and-a-half acres of indoor gardens including over two million twinkling lights, a 54-foot-tall Christmas tree, 15,000 ornaments, 20-foot-tall toy soldiers, magical miniature train sets, and so much more. Brand new this year is enhanced décor throughout the massive property including luminaries lighting up The Alamo, colorful holiday floral displays, glowing lanterns, and a Christmas Tree Trail featuring spectacularly decorated Christmas trees with different themes to make magical backdrops for family photos. Don’t miss special room rates and overnight guest perks like: ICE! “Chill Pass” for front-of-line access and an invitation to “Extra Cool Hour” for early entry into ICE! and Mistletoe Village. Tickets are limited to many experiences and advance online reservations are required for all ticketed events, so book early!
For tickets or overnight stays visit: ChristmasAtGaylordTexan.com
50% OFF ICE! TICKETS HOLIDAY *Select Dates. Restrictions Apply.
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SL COVER STORY XAR CLOTHIER
Clothier of the Best Dressed North Texans Since 2012 If you’ve ever walked into a social engagement or business function and realized you were twinning unknowingly in the same attire as another attendee, then you know that level of humiliation firsthand. Standing out because of your fashion savvy is admirable, while seeing your double throughout an event or evening out is not. XAR Clothier is synonymous with style and founder Roy Rizwan considers defining your unique style his calling. He’s spent a lifetime curating designer pieces to dress his clientele for exceptional events, special occasions, celebratory gatherings—and even their every day. His unprecedented storefront is in Southlake Town Square, but draws regulars from all over North Texas. These fashion-savvy shoppers know they can always rely on XAR to have the trending fashion lines that help them stand out and ensure their look will remain their own.
XAR Defines Your Style
(article on next page)
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XAR Clothier’s founder and style guru Roy Rizwan has a gift for choosing the world’s most renowned designers and brands. His sleek, impeccably designed, modern showroom in Southlake Town Square is a testament to his dedication to his craft — always reinventing the look and feel with each season. Rizwan and his team have a passion for fashion and defining your unique personal style is their calling.
XAR CLOTHIER GENTLEMEN’S SHOP Carries clothing from designers such as:
• Alberto • Au Noir • Avenue21 • Bertigo • Codice • Fidelity Denim • Jared Lang • Milestone • PYA Patrick Assaraf • Rivera • Schnider • Ted Baker London
XAR CLOTHIER LADIES BOUTIQUE Carries clothing from designers such as:
• Alberto Makali • Anatomie • Black Halo • DíOMí • Fidelity Denim • La Fuori • Marc Cain • OO LA LA! • Posh Couture • Sachin & Babi • SHAN • Ted Baker London • Zero Degrees Celsius
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Founder Roy Rizwan wants you to see XAR Clothier as your trusted style advisor. Customers consistently rave about XAR’s unrivaled customer service and sound guidance—they’re not going to let you walk out in something you don’t look and feel your best in. From bold prints and stunning color to statement-making pieces, timeless silhouettes and wardrobe staples, Rizwan selects every piece thoughtfully to appeal to a broad range of tastes and budgets.
FAITH, FAMILY AND FASHION
[ Flip the page to discover some of the brands carried at XAR Clothier for FW23
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Roy Rizwan is a man of faith with a deep love for his family and a passion for fashion. He and his wife have raised a beautiful family here in Dallas, Texas and are proud members of our community. Rizwan founded XAR Clothier over 11 years ago and its become the first stop for the style-savvy looking to update their wardrobe. Originally from Pakistan, Rizwan came to America with a true love of fashion that he has steadily honed for over 30 years moving through the ranks at Hugo Boss and Bernini. He’s built a respected reputation—and he continues deliberately delivering unique and high quality attire, exquisite style, superior service, and sharing his keen eye for design. It would have been more expected of XAR Clothier’s proprietor to follow a career path in medicine or the law. The way of life he was raised in comes with these types of expectations and it’s in sharp contrast to his chosen path in the fashion industry. He admits that picking fashion as his life’s journey was incredibly difficult, but he’s never looked back.
DIVERSE DRESSES TO SMART SUITS TO THE PERFECT PAIR OF JEANS Several years ago the XAR Clothier men’s and women’s shops merged under one roof. It’s not uncommon for couples to come in and shop together— even coordinating their attire for special occasions. XAR Clothier offers an impressive range of globally sourced designer lines showcased in waves of color throughout the showroom. Rizwan focuses a lot of his time on collecting exclusive apparel for his customers, moving commodity and staying updated about the latest trends. XAR’s aesthetically appealing displays of curated pieces makes the store sparkle like eye candy for patrons and sets it apart from any other local retailer. The ladies boutique side presents shoppers with women’s clothing and accessories from an international spectrum, and contains anything a woman could need or want. XAR’s style master Roy Rizwan has thoughtfully chosen each of the designers specifically for their effortless flair and vast array of styles sure to match the taste of each and every woman as an individual. On the opposite side of the store you will find that XAR’s gentlemen’s shop is equally diverse and brilliantly bold. It intentionally features clothing and collections from top designers as well. Rizwan carefully selects an edit of menswear to incorporate into your wardrobe. From GQ-worthy suits to jeans, XAR’s menswear helps gentlemen differentiate between fads and future classics. Like many of XAR’s loyal female clients, men have long relied on XAR to help them achieve that head-to-toe, put-together look.
XAR DEFINES YOUR STYLE If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your style or perhaps it’s time to invest in a pair of jeans that will stay stylishly relevant season after season, XAR Clothier’s selection of premium denim is long-wearing, precisely crafted, flattering in many settings and worth every penny. As temperatures drop, XAR offers distinctive outerwear keeping wearers warm even as they look effortlessly cool. And with the holiday season upon us, it’s time to remind yourself that there’s always a good reason to sparkle, shine and gift! Whether it’s with an ultra-feminine fit and flare party dress or a chic but understated suit, XAR has festive fashion on lock. With all that XAR offers, you would be hard-pressed to find this combination of value, selection and expert guidance anywhere else. Rizwan knows that people don’t push boundaries or make fashion changes overnight. Like the stores he’s built, he knows his customers do inevitably change. As they do, he remains their trusted advisor with impeccable taste throughout each season. You can never go wrong by choosing XAR Clothier. Having experienced a style destination this elevated, your new look will reflect the best version of you and be uniquely yours.
XAR
Clothier
Ladies Boutique & Gentlemen’s Shop Southlake Town Square 1253 Main Street Southlake, Texas 76092
XARclothier.com 214.315.2134
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SL GIFT GIVING IDEAS
PUTA BOW ON IT We searched high and low for unique gift ideas—now you can call it a wrap! From practical to luxe, quirky to classic, these gift ideas will send just the right message to the people you are grateful for this year.
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for HER We can all use a little gift giving inspiration when it’s time to buy for the person who’s always been there for you! Whether you’re buying for your mom, wife, girlfriend, sister, grandmother or aunt—we’ve got you covered. Shop our picks for the top gifts for her in 2023.
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Ark Collection, multi sapphire & ruby dragonfly brooch/pendant.
Sensate sensory device uses vibrations and sound to lower stress in minutes.
Motion bag by MOOV is engineered to support a professional on the go.
Baabushka’s superbly cozy felt slippers give her warmth and comfort.
goshwara.com
getsensate.com
moovforward.com
baabushka.com
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Yonanas healthy soft-serve dessert maker turns frozen fruit into a tasty treat!
Blend Quik portable blender with 10x power for smoothies on the go.
My Magic Carpet washable rugs have a size and style for every taste!
Dreamroo Travel Makeup Brush Holder—great stocking stuffer alert!
yonanas.com
blendquik.co
buymymagiccarpet.com
dreamroo.com
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for HIM Finding the perfect gift for the men in your life isn't easy. Settling for a boring tie won’t do—think about what the guy you're shopping for would love to unwrap. Remember the difference between men and boys is the price of their toys so check our top picks for 2023.
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DJI Mini 3 Pro is minisized, mega-capable, powerful and portable.
Baabushka wool bootie with rubber sole and arch support.
Battery-operated, temperature-regulated Ember travel tumbler.
Trade Coffee subscription is a gift that just keeps giving every single month.
dji.com/mini-3-pro
baabushka.com
ember.com
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Some like it hot! Hot Pepper Jelly Sampler Set is sweet heat!
Vitapod Go Starter Bundle for optimal sports performance and energy.
Theragun Sense reduces stress, relieves aches and pains and eases soreness.
SmartSharp Knife Sharpener with LED sharpness sensor.
jenkinsjellies.com
vitapodworld.com
therabody.com
amazon.com
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forTEENS Teens rule the world when it comes to trends and pop culture— which makes gift shopping for teenagers quite tricky. Plus, it can be difficult figuring out what is cool enough, but also still ranks age-appropriate. Show your teen that you’re still on trend!
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Want your teen to smile? Get the virtual reality Meta Quest 3 VR!
Comfy Dream Big Blanket perfect for a ridiculously cozy experience!
Lots of options, but teens should put their wallet where their phone is!
Portable on the go phone charging, it’s a win-win! (see opposite page)
meta.com
thecomfy.com
smartish.com
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Giboard is a fun, challenging, and safe balance trainer for all!
BedShelfie Bedside Shelf to keep all of their stuff within arm’s reach.
Birthstone jewelry is always a personalized gift for a teen girl in your life.
Get the Crunch Cup... No Spoon. No bowl. It's Cereal on the go.
giboardus.com
thinksmallish.com
metalicious.com
thecrunchcup.com
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for KIDS Every year top toy lists feature the most popular toys and gadgets of the season. These lists are filled with the year’s best-selling toys. Here are just a few of our favorites. Word to the wise—get your hands on them ASAP before they’re impossible to find!
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Indoor Colorable Play Ball for kicking and coloring in the house!
Enjoy warm and gooey s’mores any time of year with adult supervision.
Reversible Octopus Plushie—show your mood without a word!
New bricks on the block, 30% larger, 40% stronger and 100% cuter!
ollyball.com
colsenfirepits.com
amazon.com
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Dress him, hug him for years to come—a count down to Christmas doll.
Stomp & Catch Game just made the original Stomp Rockets better!
Happy Hapa Dolls handmade from Hawaii Jams fabric mermaids.
Magic Scrunch Pillow is DIY creativity—cupcake, unicorn, kitty and puppy.
santaclothesdoll.com
stomprocket.com
jamsworld.com
brightstripes.co
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for PETS Treat your furry family members to these top rated toys, beds, treats and grooming products. We love them like family because they are! We've rounded up some of our favorite pet gifts for 2023 to treat your dog or cat like royalty this holiday season.
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Winter Plush Cat Tunnel with cat bed for happy indoor felines.
The Original Calming Cloud 9 dog bed that’s really his best friend!
Cat Scratcher Ball toy of natural sisal for grinding and scratching.
Coziwow Lounge cardboard scratcher cat toy with catnip.
amazon.com
us.pupsdream.com
amazon.com
chewy.com
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Benebone Wishbone Chewer is the mother of all dog bones!
Create scrumptious dog treats that will have your dog begging for more.
Spleash—turn any leash into a water bottle to hydrate pups on the go!
TEEF for Life powder water additive daily dental hygiene for pets.
benebone.com
williams-sonoma.com
spleash.com
teefhealth.com
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it’s Time for
FAMILY
FRIENDLY
FESTIVITIES
Holiday cheer, family and friends gathering near — it’s that time of year. It’s time to get in the holiday spirit! As we countdown to Christmas, let’s take a look at some of the local events that will do their best to help us get into the spirit of the season. ‘Tis the season to be jolly afterall, so let’s deck the halls and go have yourself a Merry Little Christmas!
Home for
the Holidays
Carol of Lights Historic Downtown Grapevine November 20 Rediscover the magic of Christmas in Historic Downtown Grapevine with the annual Carol of Lights and street lighting event to kick off the Christmas Capital of Texas! Visitors are invited to explore up and down Historic Main Street to enjoy live performances and family-friendly activities, such as photos with live reindeer, holiday bounce houses, seasonal crafts, and tasty food vendors, starting at 4pm. At 6:30pm, Mayor Tate will flip the switch during the tree lighting ceremony at Peace Plaza, illuminating the over 40-foot tall, live Christmas tree. Celebrate the Christmas spirit by ending the night with a spectacle of lights and a breathtaking firework show at City Hall, with two separate times to choose from at 7:30pm or 8:30pm. For more information, please visit: gograpevine.com
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Peace Plaza Ice Skating Rink November 20 thru January 7, 2024 Back for a second year is Grapevine’s very own outdoor ice-skating rink on Historic Main Street. Visitors to the Christmas Capital of Texas will enjoy the Texas-sized ice rink located on Peace Plaza in front of Grapevine Main Station, home to Harvest Hall. The towering live Christmas tree is also on the plaza, as well as the larger-thanlife ornaments visitors have come to know and love each season—such as the giant reindeer, Victorian coaches and more. Everyone will have plenty of time to enjoy all the festivities and work on their triple lutz thanks to a schedule that will span over 50 days through January 7! To get your tickets and for more skating rink information or questions, visit: gograpevine.com
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Prairie Lights 2023 at Lynn Creek Park November 23 thru December 31 Upon arriving at the entrance to Prairie Lights, you will be dazzled with 4 million lights set along 2 miles of path. Hundreds of all-new displays in shapes of all kinds line and arch over the roads. Halfway through the drive, get out of your car for a stop at Holiday Village where you will find food, gifts, Santa and the Holiday Magic Lighted Walk-Through Forest. The second half of the drive ends with the animated light tunnel—a perfect finale to a night you will never forget. Prairie Lights is open every day from 6pm until 10pm. Admission is $50 per car and advanced tickets are available now. Santa must return to the North Pole on December 23, so if you want to give him any last requests, visit before then! For tickets and details, visit: prairielights.org.
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Home for the Holidays at Bass Hall November 24 thru 26 It's the most wonderful time of the year. Come on down to Bass Performance Hall to catch a glimpse of jolly old St. Nick with the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra as your hometown band delivers another magnificent installment of every family's favorite holiday tradition and Christmas carols. It’s a family tradition in true FWSO style—where the audience gets to singalong, Santa Claus spreads cheer and maybe even a snow flurry! Friday and Saturday the show starts at 7:30pm, and Sunday the show starts at 2pm. For more information, visit: BassHall.com
lobby will take your breath away and make you feel like you just stepped into a winter wonderland. Santa visits on the weekends, a red mailbox is in the lobby that will deliver your message directly to the North Pole, and you can stop by Great Wolf Kids where they will provide you with themed paper to write your letter to Santa. Bring joy to your family this holiday season with time together under the enchanting spell of Snowland’s twinkling lights, holiday trees and indoor snow showers that melt into 84-degree basking weather in their indoor water park. For more, visit: GreatWolf.com/snowland
....................... ....................... The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical at Casa Manana November 24 thru December 23 Based on the best-selling book and play by Barbara Robinson, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical is the story of the Herdmans, who are the worst kids in the history of the world. They lie, they steal, they bully other kids, and they smoke smelly cigars. There used to be only one place where you’d never see them—church. This all changes when Charlie Bradley brags that his Sunday school offers free snacks. All six of the Herdmans show up at church in search of pizza, cookies and Hawaiian Punch, and end up in the Christmas pageant. Charlie’s mom, Grace, is the novice director, who not only casts them in the show but, much to the dismay of the other kids, lets them play all the leads. Grace instantly finds herself caught between two forces of nature—the Herdmans and Helen Armstrong, who speaks for all of the outraged citizens of the town. Grace has two choices—get rid of the Herdmans or let them stay and risk being blamed for the worst pageant in the history of the world. This show is suitable for all audiences. Tickets start at $24. For tickets and more information, visit: casamanana.org
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Snowland at Great Wolf Lodge November 24 thru January 8, 2024 The magical experience of Snowland at Great Wolf Lodge is unforgettable. From spectacular decorations, visits with Santa, Snowland-themed suites and even a lifesized gingerbread house, it’s one of the best times to visit Great Wolf Lodge. There’s a feeling of happiness that glows through the Lodge, and just entering the
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Modern Lights at The Modern Art Museum November 24 thru February 4, 2024 The Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth is impressive during any season. However, it’s only possible to witness its spectacular illumination during the holiday season. Visitors can enjoy the sight of festive lights from the galleries. The museum offers extended hours until 8pm and free gallery admission on Fridays. Take your time to enjoy dazzling lights on the museum grounds or grab a bite at Café Modern during “Dinner with Lights” on Friday evenings. Executive Chef Jett Mora welcomes you with warm hospitality, creative cuisine and a seasonal menu rooted in Texas ingredients. Seating is available from 5pm to 8:30pm. For more details, please visit: themodern.org
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A Charlie Brown Christmas at Dallas Children’s Theater November 25 thru December 23 We are fortunate that Christmastime means Charlie Brown, Linus, Lucy, Snoopy, and friends are back at DCT by popular demand! Rediscover the true reason for the season while sharing laughs with the Peanuts Gang along the way. As a live combo fills your heart with music, merriment, and warmth, Charles Schulz’s classic special makes you nostalgic for days gone by. Button up your coat, and meet us on the ice as the Baker Theater becomes a most awesome skating rink! A Charlie Brown Christmas runs every weekend day between November 25 and December 23 at 1:30pm and 4:30pm. The show is recommended for ages five and up. The Dallas Children’s Theater is located at 5938 Skillman, Dallas 75231. Tickets start at $29 and are available at: tickets.dct.org
Christmas Tree Lighting and Santa's Workshop in Hurst November 28 This year’s Christmas Tree Lighting event is packed full of fun and excitement for the entire family. Activities include a 3lane snow tubing hill, Rudolph’s reindeer game area, a petting zoo, face painting and more. Santa’s workshop is where you will find Santa and Mrs. Claus, hands-on crafts and the toy drive drop off. Visit Santa’s Christmas Marketplace to purchase the finishing touches for your home with ornaments and holiday décor. Festivities begin at 5pm at the Hurst Conference Center at 1601 Campus Drive in Hurst. The fireworks show begins at 7pm. Parking and shuttles to and from event site will be available at Tarrant County Community College Northeast Campus beginning at 4:30pm until 9:00pm. For details, please visit: hursttx.org
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NRH Christmas Tree Lighting November 30 Join the city of North Richland Hills to kick off the Christmas season with the NRH Christmas Tree Lighting on Thursday, Nov. 30 from 6pm until 8pm in Stormy Plaza Park. The event will include a traditional tree lighting, carolers and take-home holiday craft bags distributed by the NRH Library. For a festive warm treat, the Friends of the NRH Library will be selling hot chocolate, and of course, Santa will be joining us, too! Parking will be available at the NRH Centre, with overflow at the west parking lot of Birdville High School. Families will be able to enjoy the city’s Christmas Tree and all the holiday lights and scenery along Grand and Hawk Avenues through January 2. For more information, please visit: nrhtx.com
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Home on the Range for the Holidays at Omni PGA Frisco December 1 thru December 23 Families wanting to capture all of the holiday magic should look no farther than the Omni PGA Frisco Resort. The luxurious 660-acre development in North Texas will be transformed into a holiday wonderland, decked out with miles of garland and lights and 35 different holiday trees across the property and inside the Resort. The most magical of these will be the 35’ tree in the Monument Realty PGA District, which will feature a custom animated light display set to classic holiday music. Activ-
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ities and experiences are around each corner, as guests can encounter live reindeer, festive holiday characters, a photo opportunity with a real longhorn and trips on the Fields Ranch Holiday Express train. Children can meet up with elf balloon artists, write and mail letters to Santa and create holiday ornament keepsake families will cherish for years and years to come. All the restaurants in the Monument Realty PGA District will offer curated food and beverage options, and pop-up stations will offer holiday treats, snacks and cocoa (regular and boozy) for purchase. The event is free to attend for adults 19 and up and for children 2 and younger. However, guests ages 3-18 years old must purchase a $30 ticket. Tickets available at: PGAFrisco.com/Events
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Grapevine Twinkle Light Boat Parade December 2 Lake Grapevine will twinkle with holiday cheer! This lighted boat parade starts at Twin Coves Marina and picks up entries at each marina as it circles the lake. The parade is visible all along the shore of Lake Grapevine. Trophies awarded for best decorations in four categories: Small Sailboat, Large Sailboat, Small Power Boat and Large Power Boat and a Best Overall Trophy. The parade concludes with a Fireworks Show from Sand Bass Point. This event is free (though parking fees may apply) and runs from 6pm until 9pm. For additional information, please call Scott’s Landing at: (817) 481-4549
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The Colleyville Lions Club 27th Annual Breakfast with Santa December 2 The Colleyville Lions Club 28th Annual Breakfast with Santa is Saturday, December 3 from 8am until noon at Crown of Life Lutheran Church, 6605 Pleasant Run Road in Colleyville. Come celebrate the beginning of the holiday season with your family and friends, and join us for a morning full of holiday cheer! Santa will be available for all children getting photos with Santa. Activities include a pancake and sausage breakfast served on-site, live holiday music and singing, a Christmas Land Adventures, raffles and much more. Santa photo lines will be appropriately spaced in the Event Center. Children and their families will have the opportunity to go on a Christmas Land Adventure Scavenger hunt while waiting for photos. Kids
may also fill out a “Wish List” that will be given to Santa instead of sitting on Santa’s lap this year. Attendees are asked to please bring a canned food for GRACE, or an old pair of eyeglasses for recycling, and Microsoft computers and mobile phones for recycling to the visually impaired. Tickets are $10 in advance or $12 at the door for the entire family. Proceeds go to support local and Lion designated charities and Colleyville Lions Club scholarships. For information, visit: colleyvillelions.com
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35th Holiday Home Tour presented by Colleyville Women’s Club December 3 The Colleyville Woman’s Club kicks off the yuletide season with the return of its 35th Holiday Home Tour from 11 am to 5 pm on Sunday, December 3rd. Three exquisite homes in Colleyville will be showcased along with Colleyville’s historic Webb House and Caboose—beautifully decorated for the holidays. There will be something for everyone on this tour as each home offers its own distinct ele-
gance and style while family traditions are evident in displayed collectables, artwork and memorabilia. The tour begins at the Colleyville Recreation Center at 5008 Roberts Road. After registration, attendees will be given a tour booklet with information about the homes, tour, club and sponsors. Complimentary shuttle service to the featured homes will be provided. There will also be great shopping opportunities at the popular Santa’s Sweet Stop, also located at the Colleyville Recreation Center. This stop will feature many local vendors to help you start your holiday gift shopping. On the day of the tour, reservations are $45 and are available at the Colleyville Recreation Center. Advance tour reservations may be purchased for $40 online by visiting the CWC’s website online at: c-w-c.org/events/home-tour
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Scrooge the Musical December 6 thru 17 North Texas Performing Arts is proud to announce its 13th annual production of Scrooge, the Musical featuring its largest
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day performers, including Dallas Cowboys Rhythm and Blue, Cowboys Rookie Squad, Rowdy, and a special appearance by Santa Claus. Fan-favorite moments from the show include the tree’s stunning light display synchronized with original Christmas music and pyro which lights up the sky at The Star. This event is free and open to the public. Parking is free and available on-site. For more information, please visit: thestarinfrisco.com
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cast ever with over 130 adult and youth actors in this holiday favorite that has captivated some 20,000 audience members. The cast features Plano resident Darrell Rodenbaugh in a reprise in his 13th year and 112th appearance as North Texas’s Scrooge. The cast also includes Plano City Councilman Shelby Williams and 2022 “Best of Broadway Supporting Actor of the Year” Tom Walsh. Local talent Sawyer Bell returns to the cast this year playing the role of “Young Scrooge.” He originally portrayed “Tiny Tim” in this same series a decade ago! NTPA’s Scrooge will offer 12 performances between December 6-17, with two “Gift to the Community” performances December 6 and 13 with the first weekend at the historic Plano Courtyard Theatre and the closing weekend at the Willow Bend Center of the Arts in The Shops at Willow Bend Mall. “Gift to the Community” performances provide tickets as a free “Christmas Gift” to veterans and underprivileged families. Audience members will participate in pre-show carols, a special visit from Santa Claus, free
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snacks during intermission and a postshow gift bag. For more information and showtimes, go to: ntpa.org
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Cowboys Christmas Extravaganza at the Star in Frisco Now thru December 16 This holiday season, the Dallas Cowboys will host the seventh annual Cowboys Christmas Extravaganza powered by Reliant at The Star in Frisco every Friday and Saturday evening at 6pm from November 17 to December 16. Cowboys Christmas Extravaganza powered by Reliant is an electrifying 20-minute show that ignites The Star with a powerful mix of game day excitement and Christmas cheer on Tostitos Championship Plaza. The show kicks off with a dazzling performance by the world-famous Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, followed by the lighting of The Star’s 67-foot LED Christmas tree by a Dallas Cowboys football legend. Cowboys Christmas Extravaganza showcases a magical lineup of 69 game-
Sounds of the Season Holiday Concert December 19 The Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra (FWSO) is thrilled to announce its partnership with The Apex Arts League for the highly anticipated annual Sounds of the Season holiday concert. This enchanting event will take place at the beautiful White’s Chapel Methodist Church in Southlake. The Sounds of the Season concert has become a beloved Southlake family tradition, captivating audiences with a delightful blend of holiday classics. Attendees can expect to be transported into the magical world of the Nutcracker, experience the joy of Sleigh Ride, and participate in a heartwarming Holly Jolly sing-along, among other festive musical selections. Mark your calendars for Tues., December 19 at 7pm for an unforgettable evening filled with the enchanting sounds of the holidays. Tickets for this extraordinary event are priced at $10 for children, $25 for adults, and a special $20 ticket is available for Seniors and Apex members. To secure your seats, please call (817) 6656000 or visit: fwsymphony.org
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Holidays in the Stockyards Now thru December 24 Celebrate the holidays Cowboy-style every Friday-Sunday starting with Santa’s grand arrival on November 24th, and continuing through December 24th with fun activities for the whole family. Centered on western heritage holiday activities that the entire family can enjoy, like a cattle drive, story time with Mrs. Claus, caroling and Cowboy Santa! All festivities happen along East Exchange Avenue on the lawns of the Cowtown Coliseum and Livestock Exchange Building, inside Stockyards Station, and participating surrounding businesses like the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame and Billy Bobs. For a complete list of events or to book photos with Cowboy Santa, visit: fortworthstockyards.com
Lone Star Christmas at Gaylord Texan Resort Now thru December 31 There is no better way to celebrate the holidays than gathering your family for Christmas at Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center in Grapevine. Find endless hours of Christmas entertainment and activities across the resort, such as gingerbread decorating, snow tubing, ice skating and much more. ICE! returns this holiday season. Step into a wonderland carved by expert artisans out of two million pounds of colorful ice. It’s a cool 9 degrees inside, but their signature blue parkas are warm and toasty. This season, you'll see the story of Dr. Suess’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas in larger-than-life sculptures. For additional details and individual holiday event tickets/reservations, please call (817) 778-1000 or visit them at: ChristmasAtGaylordTexan.com
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Vitruvian Lights Now thru January 1, 2024 The most dazzling and spectacular time of the year is nearly here! Vitruvian Park transforms into North Texas’ most magical free holiday wonderland during Vitruvian Lights, when more than 1.5 million sparkling LED lights are wrapped around 555 trees. Now through Monday, January 1st, visitors are encouraged to walk or drive through Vitruvian Park to enjoy the beauty of the lights. This is the 11th annual season for Vitruvian Lights, sponsored by UDR and the Town of Addison. This year, there will also be alive music night on November 25th along with gourmet food trucks, sweet treats, free photos with Santa, live reindeer, letters to Santa, classic holiday characters, an elf balloon artist and more! For more information and the park FAQs and updates, visit: udr.com/vitruvian-park/vitruvian-park-events
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The Light Park at Hurricane Harbor Now thru January 1, 2024 The most exciting and electrifying light show South of the North Pole, The Light Park is a mile-long, drive-thru spectacular that has been heralded as “one of the coolest ways to brighten your holiday season.” At the Light Park, guests will witness millions of lights synchronized to an electric mix of music powered by DJ Polar Ice from the North Pole’s #1 Hit Radio station, K-GLO as they take in the brightest sights and sounds in the South. Priced per vehi-
cle, rather than per person, the more is truly merrier for visitors who want to travel through the longest light tunnel in the world, rock out to the coolest tunes, and celebrate the holiday season with the most Instagram Reel-worthy shots! Tickets start at $29 per vehicle and must be purchased online in advance. For more information, please visit: thelightpark.com
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Lightscape at Fort Worth Botanic Garden Now thru January 1, 2024 Following sold-out runs in the world’s largest cities including London, Melbourne, Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York, the internationally acclaimed Lightscape is back in North Texas for a second season at the Fort Worth Botanic Garden. With entry times available every 15 minutes from 5:30 to 8:30pm nightly, ticketholders will walk an illuminated 1.2mile-long path with suspended strands and tunnels of light. With an astonishing 80 percent newly designed displays, this year’s reimagined event promises an even more immersive and magical experience for visitors of all ages. Attendees will also have the opportunity to toast marshmallows over a fire and drink hot chocolate and other seasonal drinks at stations along the trail. Tickets are $23 for adults and $15 for children ages 3 to 12. Children 2 and under are free. Tickets are on sale now at: fwbg.org/lightscape
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Santa’s Village at Southlake Town Square November 19 thru December 24 Nothing marks the holidays like pictures with Santa. Kids of all ages can visit with the jolly fella at Santa’s Village in Southlake Town Square. Starting Sunday, November 19 through Christmas Eve, stop by to take a peek inside the village, have photos taken or just drop off a last-minute request letter to Santa. Photo prices start at $25.95. To decrease the number of people waiting in line, there will be a paging system. Check in at the Elf Station in person next to Santa’s Village to put your name on the reservation list for that day only. You will receive a text 10 minutes prior to your family’s turn. For updates, visit: SouthlakeTownSquare.com
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Santa at the Dallas Farmers Market Saturdays Nov. 25, Dec. 2 and 16 from 11am–3pm Pets are also welcome to meet Santa during these three special days at the market. Printed photos are $15 each. If your shy child would rather mail their letter to Santa, you can do that here, too. There’s always something fun to do at the Dallas Farmers Market. After your visit with Santa, stay for live music and chef demos over at the Shed. For more, visit: dallasfarmersmarket.org
....................... ....................... The Trains at Northpark Now thru January 5, 2024 Since 1987, the Trains at Northpark have been delighting the hearts and minds of young and old alike. This holiday family tradition features miniature toy trains rolling along 1600-feet of track from coast to coast on a whimsical rail journey across America. New for 2023, the trains are in a new location and the entire exhibit has gotten a makeover. Come visit the Trains at their new space on Level One, adjacent to Macy’s and Santa from now until Jan. 5, 2024 (except on Thanksgiving and Christmas—closing at 4pm on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve, and 6pm on New Year's Day). Tickets are still just $10 for adults, $5 for children and seniors. All of the proceeds from ticket sales goes to helping families at the Ronald McDonald House of Dallas. For more information, visit: thetrainsatnorthpark.com
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The Christmas Village at the Dallas Arboretum November 27 thru December 24 Santa is back at the garden in the perfect holiday setting—The Christmas Village. Share your Christmas wish with the jolly old man, and take a photo to commemorate the occasion. Keepsake family photos are available for a donation to the Volunteer Advisory Board from noon–3pm Saturdays and Sundays. Santa is only one of the reasons to come visit the Arboretum during the holidays. You won’t want to miss the chance to see the 12 Days of Christmas and the 50-foot-tall musical tree. For reservations, visit: dallasarboretum.org
........................ Roanoke’s Hometown Holiday with Santa December 2 Catch Santa from noon-8pm. at the City of Roanoke's Hometown Holiday street festival, tree lighting, and parade on historic
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aquariums and wildlife displays found in every Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s store. Reservations: BassPro.com (or) Cabelas.com
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Santa at The Star Now thru December 24 Santa at the Star will welcome Santa Claus to his Cowboys fan-themed set at The Star in Frisco from Friday, Nov. 17 until Sunday, Dec. 24! Visitors will have the opportunity to take a photograph with Santa inside his custom Dallas Cowboys cottage. Photo packages include a printed 5×7 photo and an exclusive Cowboys gift for each child. Visitors can save $5 when they book their appointment before December 9 using code STAR5. Santa’s cottage is located centrally in The Star District at 3620 The Star Blvd, Suite 1205 (across from Ascension). Parking is available in the Silver Parking Garage located off of Gaylord Parkway. To book your visit with Santa, please go to: thestardistrict.com/santa
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Oak Street in Roanoke. Free, family-friendly event boasts sledding snow hill, skating rink, alpaca petting zoo, cookie decorating and much more. Please visit: Roanoketexas.com
the Center Court near Macy’s and Starbucks Monday-Saturday from 10am-9pm and Sunday noon-6pm. Please call: (817) 284-3427
Photos with Santa in Grapevine Now thru December 24 Don’t miss the opportunity to capture the perfect Christmas family photo with Kris Kringle at the Founders Building at 701 South Main Street in historic downtown Grapevine. Reservations are available for photo times Monday through Sunday starting now through December 24. Receive photos before you leave! Picture packages start at $30. For more details or to make a reservation, visit: MainStreetSanta.com
........................ ....................... ....................... Caring Santa: Just for Kids with Special Needs December 3 Join Autism Speaks for a private photo experience for kids with special needs and their families. Children have the opportunity to visit with Santa and have their photo taken with him. Northeast Mall, Grapevine Mills and Firewheel Town Center will make necessary adjustments to the environment to support the sensory, physical and other developmental needs of kids of all abilities for this special event from 10am-noon. For more information, visit AutismSpeaks.org
........................ Photos with Santa at Northeast Mall Now thru December 24 During Santa’s Sabbatical from the North Pole, kids can stop by to whisper their list, then have a magical moment with Santa captured forever in keepsake photos. Now through Christmas Eve, Santa stationed in
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Photos with Santa at Gaylord Texan’s Lone Star Christmas Now thru December 24 Whether you’ve been naughty or nice, don’t miss the chance to have a treasured photo taken with old Saint Nick. From now until December 24, Santa’s waiting for you in the Lone Star Atrium, near the Oil Derrick next to Texan Station. Times: M-F from 4-9pm, Sat. 10am-9pm and Sun.10am-6pm. Photo packages start at $35 and are required to meet Santa. Visit: GaylordTexan.com
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Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Now thru December 24 Bass Pro Shops will feature Santa’s Wonderland where families can get a free 4x6 photo with Santa weekdays from 5-8pm, Saturdays 10am-8pm and Sundays from 10am-5pm. Is your little one a bit shy or you don’t have time to wait in line? Families can also drop by a letter to Santa and enjoy the amazing
Santa at Galleria Dallas Now thru December 24 Come see Santa in-person at Santaland at Galleria Dallas. Stationed on level 1 near Banana Republic, families are welcome to bring their phones or digital cameras to take photos with Santa. Combo tickets are available with the photo op and exhibit SnowDay. From there, you can catch the next Express Train to Santaland with daily non-stop service to the North Pole. These trains leave every 15 minutes. You’ll arrive in a magical moonlit forest and journey through an enchanted path filled with starry lights, polar bears, and extra photo ops leading to Santa’s majestic cabin hideaway. This year, there will be designated times for Santa Paws, Santa Cares and Spanish-speaking Santa. Reservations are strongly recommended. For tickets and more details, visit:snowdaydallas.com
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Wishing You a Wonderful Holiday Season!
SL greater good
ARTICLE BY KAREN CHANEY
A dream in the making, The Healing House will be a compassionate haven for disadvantaged youth aged 18 to 24. It will provide a safe and nurturing environment for their transition to independence. Comfortable accommodations, counseling services, life skills training and a supportive community to help them rebuild their lives will also be offered. The Healing House will be the newest component of Stepping Stones Foundation, a 501c3 non-profit founded by Christiana Bynum-Breaux in 2009. When she launched the Foundation, it was 10 years after the first time she brought at-risk children home to live with her family. Breaux said over the years she thought about the need for a house for these youth, but was always so busy being the “boots on the ground” taking care of the kids she and other Foundation board members took into their own homes that she never had time to make it happen. However two months ago, she had such a vivid dream that she could not deny this was the path she was meant to take and now was the time to take it.
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the HEALING
HOUSE
A DREAM COME TRUE FOR AT-RISK LOCAL YOUTHS
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SL greater good THE DREAM “WHAT I SAW IN MY DREAM IS BEAUTIFUL. WHEN I WALKED IN, I FELT THE LIGHT,” SHE SAID. “I SAW EVERYTHING. THE LIBRARY IS TO THE BACK RIGHT, THE CAFÉ TO THE BACK LEFT, THE INTAKE AREA IS AS SOON AS YOU WALK IN. THERE IS A BIG ATRIUM IN THE CENTER— A ROUND AREA WITH TREES AND WATER. IT’S QUIET AND PEACEFUL. I SAW THE DOG ‘MURPHY’, A GOLDEN RETRIEVER.” IN ADDITION TO MURPHY, SHE ALSO SAW A BLOND FEMALE WORKING AT THE FRONT DESK. “SHE LETS THE DOG SLEEP WITH THE KIDS, AND SHE’S NOT SUPPOSED TO,” BREAUX LAUGHINGLY SAID.
She woke up early the next morning and taped four pieces of paper together where she drew everything she saw in her dream. Her husband, Paul Breaux, was surprised to see her up so early. “He looked at the plans and asked what it was. I said, ‘It’s The Healing House.’ The name, the logo, everything was in the dream,” she said. “He didn’t say, ‘You’re crazy.’ He said, ‘You need to get an architect to draw that up.’ That’s a good man!”
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THE HEALING HOUSE Christina Bynum-Breaux is a world-renowned photographer and founder of Stepping Stones Foundation. She has a dream to build The Healing House for disadvantaged youth experiencing homelessness or unstable living conditions. If any donor is willing to buy the land or the building she could use for The Healing House, she would be happy to give them naming rights to the building or a room inside the building. The donation link is: steppingstoneskeller.org/#donate With the dream firmly etched in her mind, she is chipping away at an extensive to-do list to create the tangible.
THE NUTS AND BOLTS She is currently looking for approximately 10-thousand-square-feet of land for The Healing House. The building will have 10 to 12 single occupancy dorm-like rooms upstairs. An atrium, café, library, laundry, storage and offices for a nurse, counselor, and intake will be downstairs. It will be
built so they can add wings as needed. The goal is for the property to be near or in Keller so the youth and volunteers will have easy access to Stepping Stones Thrift Boutique located in Keller. The boutique serves as a resource for the youth to shop year-round for free clothing and home accessories.
WHO NEEDS THE HEALING HOUSE “The Healing House is designed to benefit disadvantaged youth who are experienc-
1999 Christiana Bynum-Breaux started bringing at-risk children home with her that she met while mentoring at Keller Middle School—the children lived with her from time to time and went on vacations with her and her family
2009 Breaux founded Stepping Stones Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping youth in crisis in North Texas
2015 Stepping Stones Thrift Boutique was opened—it is a resource for Foundation children to shop for free clothing and accessories.
2023 Breaux had a dream to build the Helping House
2025 Goal year for the Healing House to be completely built
ing homelessness or unstable living conditions,” Breaux said. The kids who are involved in Stepping Stones Foundation come from families where the mom is on drugs, is an alcoholic or chooses men over her children, and the dad is not involved. Breaux said these kids become “couch surfers” in that they go from one house to another sleeping on couches. However, some are homeless. Many of these kids live within Keller ISD while some are from other areas of North Texas.
WHY 18-24-YEAR-OLDS Most of the kids currently being helped by Stepping Stones are 17-years-old and seniors in high school. The Healing House will bridge the gap while they heal and prepare for their future. And legally they can’t house underage children. Residents of The Healing House will have access to Stepping Stones Project Work For It. “We have local, family-owned businesses that work with the kids,” Breaux said. “They work in their companies. They’re being mentored, getting paid and learning a trade.”
MEETING PHYSICAL NEEDS AND MORE Breaux said everyday she has new kids show up who need help, or a teacher brings a homeless kid to her. “They prefer living outside over an adult shelter which is very dangerous and not okay for these sweet kids,” she said. The Healing House will be a house that heals in every way. They will have safe shelter, food, life-skill training, counseling, and more. “I need a place for the kids, to get them all in one place and make sure they’re safe” she said. “There is a lot of healing that needs to take place for them to engage and be successful. These are children. The Healing House will be something that will make a difference for a very long time.”
IF THE HEALING HOUSE WAS ALREADY BUILT Although Stepping Stones Foundation has been able to help thousands of kids thus far, there are times when Breaux wishes they could have done much more. “We lost one in January. It was hard,” she said. “She was couch surfing. We paid for her to live with another family because they couldn't afford to let her stay with them. She was doing great until she got with this guy… I think it was fentanyl. Had we had this house, I think she would still be with us. There are other kids... I can go on and on.”
BELIEVING IN THE DREAM Breaux said the price tag on this dream is $5 million dollars which she estimates will include expenses for the house for three years. She reports they are already receiving tremendous community support. She pointed out that the Grapevine, Colleyville, Southlake Moms League held a gala where they raised over $70k for the cause. She said local organizations like National Charity League, Young Men’s Service League and others have been wonderful partners. “I’ve had companies who have approached me, one in particular, where the owner experienced homelessness. He lived in a cabinet,” she shared. “He moved his company here from California. They’ve been working with us for a-year-and-a-half now.” Breaux said the thing that has surprised her most about being a founder of a non-profit organization is how generous people are. She said what they really need now are mentors, financial donations, and land donations.
“It takes a village to raise these children and it takes the community to raise this house,” she said. MATERNAL INSPIRATION Breaux said her three biological children learned from her example. “My kids were always good kids and looked out for the underdog,” she said. “They would bring kids home.” She attributes her mom with instilling an altruistic spirit in her. “We were poor. My mom always said, ‘What’s your good deed for the day?’ She didn’t care about my grades.” Breaux recalls. “That’s what mattered to her and that’s what mattered to me.”
DIVINE ASSISTANCE Buoyed by past experiences, Breaux sees a promising future. “God has blown doors open in the last year. I have seen some impossible things happen and so have others in the organization,” she admits. “When I had the dream, I was like alright put one foot in front of the other. I always used to say. ‘Let go, let God,’ but when you actually do it’s really crazy how things transpire.”
FOR NAME’S SAKE If any donor is willing to buy the land or the building Breaux could use for The Healing House, she would be happy to give them naming rights to the building or a room inside the building. The donation link is: —————————————————–— SteppingStonesKeller.org/#donate
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AS MOTHER U S E D T O S AY
PHOTOS BY LORRAINE HAAN-STEWART
INTERVIEW BY SHANNON STEWART SALINSKY
because Want to be featured with your kids? Simply email your contact info to the editor at: elena@societylifemagazine.com. Then you will answer 20 questions and we will take professional photos of you and your kids (we will even give you some!)
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In this issue of Society Life’s Mom’s column, we asked Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), and a devoted wife and mom, Wendy Stewart, to answer 20 questions about becoming and being a mom. Wendy has two children: Claire a sophomore, and Drew a 6th grader. She lives with her husband, Brian and their kids in Colleyville. Here’s what she had to say…
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SOCIETY LIFE: What’s one of your earliest memories you have of your Mom? WENDY STEWART: Without a doubt, my earliest memories of my mom were of her cooking, baking, cleaning, ironing, and decorating. She was immaculate. My dad used to refer to her as “White Tornado.” Janice was the consummate homemaker and could run circles around most of us with an impressive level of energy. She was a product of the times when laundry was hung out to dry on the clothesline, bed linens were ironed before folded, dinner was ready and on the table every evening by 5:30pm, and eating out was reserved for rare special occasions. She loved to go shopping and taught me the real meaning of the phrase “shop ‘til you drop!” SL: What is something you thought about Motherhood that was totally wrong? WS: Honestly, I was scared to death by the thought of Motherhood. I didn’t believe I was cut out for that role and frankly I was fearful. I was uncomfortable with the notion I could bring children into this world and be responsible for raising them to be good humans. In my 20s, I was selfishly more concerned about how starting a family would affect my career and independence. It was fear of the unknown and things I didn’t have control over—all the negative “what-ifs” as opposed to focusing on the blessings and gifts that kids bring to our lives every day. Now that I am 50, I cannot imagine our lives without being parents. They’re my greatest gifts and have enriched my life beyond measure. SL: What’s something you always wanted to do but didn’t... and why didn’t you? WS: Before getting married, I always wanted to take a travel assignment while I was an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) nurse. I thought that sounded so appealing to work in different hospitals, in different states. I loved the idea of seeing the country coast to coast and living in different cities before settling down. Ultimately, I was in love and getting married to my husband Brian was the winning decision! SL: Was there something your Mom did when you were a kid that you swore you’d never do as a parent? WS: Ugh, make noise! My mom would get up early in the morning on weekends and unload the dishwasher, banging dishes and pot and pans while everyone else in the house was asleep! It was incredibly disruptive and annoying to
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an adolescent teenager. And here I am… waking up early to clean up the kitchen or put away dishes, committing the same loud offenses she did while my family is sleeping. SL: What did you think you wanted to be when you grew up? WS: I remember in 4th grade I was invited to Young Peoples’ University at The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA). I chose a class on becoming a Travel Agent. Then I moved on to a fascination with Marine Biology. As I got into high school and suffered a sports injury, then reconstructive knee surgery, I was convinced that I wanted to become a Physical Therapist. By the time I was applying to college, nursing just seemed like the right profession for me. I absolutely made the right choice. I love my job, I love my profession, and at the end of the day, I feel fulfilled and gratified when caring for my patients. Now, having been a nurse for almost 28 years, my next career for enjoyment would be a florist and a party-planner. I have such a passion and appreciation for fresh flowers and I love the details of planning parties and gatherings. SL: How have your notions of what it means to be a Mom changed over your lifetime? WS: In essence, I have calmed down a lot and relinquished the expectations I have had for perfection. I used to put so much pressure on myself regarding details— things had to be a certain way to meet my perception. I have come to realize that it’s not only unhealthy for myself, but more importantly, it’s unhealthy for my children to have seen me constantly stressed and dissatisfied unless things are flawless. Since becoming a mother in my mid-30s, I learned to let go of all of those unrealistic perceptions and to accept a more relaxed attitude—to give myself and others around me grace. Finding gratitude and feeling content brings so much more joy and peace to our life. SL: What’s the best family vacation you’ve ever taken? WS: The best family vacation we have taken together was to Kauai in July, 2017. Our daughter was 9-years-old and our son was 5. They are terrific travelers and they handled the long flight and the fivehour time difference with ease. We stayed in Poipu and rented a Jeep so we could sightsee and leisurely explore the island for the week. Some of the most memorable highlights from that trip were tubing through the old Lihue sugar plantation, Waimea Canyon, Spouting
Momilies
Horn, lunch on the beach in Princeville, The Beach House Restaurant at sunset, Lappert’s Ice Cream, Kauaian shave ice, and the popular Puka Dogs. Surprisingly, after six years, both of my kids still fondly remember that vacation. Claire’s favorite memory was going to a beachfront Luau and learning about the Polynesian culture through stories, songs, and dances. Drew’s favorite excursion was taking a boat ride to snorkel together along the Na’ Pali Coast. What a truly majestic and breathtaking creation it was to experience! SL: Is there a moment or event that radically changed the way you saw Motherhood? WS: I believe Motherhood humbles you, in general. Any grandiose ideas or pre-conceived notions of how you want or expect things to be had better be fluid and adaptable. The Lord has His own timeline and His own plans. The most significant event in my life that radically forced me to pivot was the loss of my mother in 2009 when my daughter was 9-months-old. She was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer at the age of 69 when my first baby was only 8-weeks-old. To say that threw my new little family into a tragic emotional spiral is an understatement. I extended my maternity leave and we moved my mother from New Jersey to Texas to live with us. This allowed me to help care for her and arrange the necessary treatments and therapies that would maximize her comfort and quality of life for the time she was given. That ended up being the biggest blessing. Seeing my mother interact with my daughter brought all of us so much happiness and fulfillment. On so many occasions while I watched my mom feed, bathe, and play with Claire, it gave me a vivid glimpse into what it must have been like when my mom cared for me as an infant. This precious new baby who was full of life and hope was the perfect distractor to a physically and emotionally draining circumstance. She gave my mom joy and something to look forward to every single day. That experience also put mortality and true priorities into perspective. Simultaneously watching the beginning of new life in parallel with the terminal end of another was emotionally heavy.
our family in nature and the innocent, pure, authentic love between a brother and sister. Those photos still hang in my husband’s office today. SL: What was the first year of motherhood like for you? WS: It was intense. It could truly be described as an emotional medley of intense love like none other, intense anxiety, intense grief, intense fear, bliss, confusion, elation, depression, anger, resentment, worry, gratitude, joyfulness, doubt—and then finally a sense of spiritual and emotional peace. That year was one I would never want anyone else to experience, yet, it was the journey that I was meant to take. It made me stronger, yet softer, more resilient and compassionate. SL: What do you want or wish most for your kids? WS: What I want most for both of them is happiness, confidence, optimism and independence. I think with those core traits, everything else that is desirable can fall into place. We work really hard to model responsibility, leadership, honesty and loyalty. My wish for the future is that when our kids are older and maybe in college or living on their own, they have happy memories of growing up and want to come back home to hang out with us! We hope family traditions and memories will make our kids nostalgic for their childhood. SL: What are some of your biggest struggles as a Mom? WS: Managing a work-life balance. I have a bad habit of committing myself to be in charge before I pause to consider the crazy impact it will have on our calendar. My fatal flaw is the inability to say the word “No” because of mom-guilt and believing I can do it all. I am employed full time in an elective outpatient surgery setting so I work weekdays Monday thru Friday. Since leaving the large urban hospital setting, I no longer have to cover night shifts, weekends, or holidays. It is very important to me to be involved and present— evenings and weekends are devoted to family.
SL: When did you know you were ready to have kids? WS: I began to feel ready to start a family in 2007. We were about to celebrate 10 years of marriage and we had both accomplished some significant personal goals. And, we had already traveled quite a bit and had raised the cutest Weimaraner puppy named Wrigley. It was time to start a family! It seemed like that was the natural progression for us as a couple.
SL: What would your perfect day off be like? Describe it. WS: On my perfect day off, my house would be totally clean and organized and all the laundry would be finished, folded and put away! I would sleep in until 9am. and start my day with a walk. I would meet up with friends for brunch, then off by myself for a pedicure, manicure, and facial. After doing a little leisurely shopping, I would head home for a backyard family barbecue, swimming with the kids while my husband grills dinner. We’d eat on the patio watching the Texas Rangers, then go for ice cream together to finish off the evening.
SL: What’s your favorite photo of your family? WS: One of my favorite family photos is from 2014. Claire was 5-years-old and Drew was 2. I booked a session with the intent of having some pictures taken for Father’s Day. Our photographer suggested an obscure Duncanville location called Harrington Park. It turned out to be a hidden gem. We climbed down to a gorgeous creek and the scenery was just beautiful. Those photos captured
SL: What’s the one song that means the most to you? WS: I love music and I listen closely to the lyrics. The song that has special significance to me is “You and Me” by Dave Matthews. It’s my ring tone for my husband. We met at a summer job in high school—I was 17 and he was18. We have been together more than half our lives—for 32 years we have experienced every milestone, heartbreak, triumph, and challenge a couple could endure.
SL: What advice would you give to your younger self about Motherhood? WS: Relax. Be patient. Don’t sweat the small stuff and trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. SL: Is there a quote, saying, words of advice or scripture you consider words to live by? WS: Two in particular come to my mind. “Always remember you are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, smarter thank you think, and more loved than you could ever imagine” and “If it costs you your peace, it’s too expensive.” SL: If you could share a meal with any woman past, present, or future who would it be? Why? WS: I’d choose Oprah Winfrey. When I think of her character and accomplishments, I believe she is a remarkably intelligent, articulate, and successful. Her impoverished roots and her rough childhood could have destined her for a stereotypical life of struggle. Instead she persevered with determination to overcome pregnancy at the age of 14, attend college, gain an education, and thrive to break barriers of race and socioeconomic standards. To me, she is an authentically beautiful person inside and out with so much wisdom and influence to share. The speech she delivered at the 2018 Golden Globes will forever be ingrained in my mind and heart. It gave me chills and left me inspired and motivated. At that time, Claire was only 10 years old and she ran and got a pencil and paper to take notes as Oprah was accepting her Lifetime Achievement Award. That was poignant to me as an adult but to witness my young daughter so emotionally motivated was pretty profound. SL: What Mom from real-life or even TV/movies do you admire most? WS: I have learned through the last few years that the moms I admire the most—the mentor moms (as I like to call them). Everyday moms juggling careers, work inside and outside the home, and family life. They are fun, creative, organized, honest, vulnerable and know how to laugh at themselves without taking life too seriously. Moms simply doing the best they can to raise kind, moral kids. They’re helpers and doers and if they have a critique they also have a solution. SL: At the end of a long day, what do you do for fun or relaxation? WS: My family loves to go out to eat dinner at our favorite Tex Mex restaurant. We can also be found cuddling on the couch in our PJs watching the TCU Horned Frogs, Dallas Cowboys, or Texas Rangers! ............................................................................ – Momilies Column – Would you like to answer our 20 questions about motherhood and becoming a mom? If so, you could be featured here in our Momilies column with your kids and family. Our photographer will take professional photos of you all for the article as well. We even give you some to keep! Please send an email with your contact information to our editor at: elena@societylifemagazine.com SocietyLifeMag.com
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$anta Claw$ This isn’t a fairytale. My daughter is 12. It’s time for her to know the truth about $anta Claw$ (not to be confused with Santa Claus, St. Nick, or Father Christmas). Make no mistake, this isn’t a fairytale.
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FatherHood SL H I S P E R S P E C T I V E : S T O R I E S F R O M FAT H E R H O O D
$anta Claw$ lives in the North Pole. He does not live there because it’s where his workshop is located. He doesn’t have a workshop or the indentured labor necessary to run one. He lives there because it’s easy to hide in plain sight. He hides because of his involvement in a 2019 crypto scam. Aside from a few unfortunate scientists who he “handles,” people don’t generally visit the North Pole. The specific events behind his crypto transgressions are not well understood, so I will focus on what is well understood. Every Christmas Eve since 2019, $anta takes flight from the desolation of the North Pole to civilization. Under the cover of Santa Claus’ shadow, he flies high. He flies not with the help from a team of reindeer and Rudolph’s red nose, but with the help of an electric vape pipe and its neon violet glow. He travels with an empty sack and a pair of needle-nose pliers. His return to civilization is selfishly motivated. He visits out of ruthless necessity.
The North Pole is harsh and unforgiving just like him. Like a bear awakened out of hibernation, he ravishes for food and tinder for his pipe. Given the roughly 24 hours that he must traverse the globe, he only has enough time to visit some of us. Those of us who live in Colorado, the Netherlands, a host of South American, and Central Asian countries bear a disproportionate percentage of his visits. His visits are best described as crimes. They begin with breaking and entering and often end with vandalism and theft. Generall at night, house doors are locked. As a result, he enters homes through their chimneys. The rat-a-tap-tap on your roof should not be confused with the reindeer hooves, and the guttural laughs from within the chimney’s walls should not be confused as those from jolly old St. Nick. They are not. They are from $anta Claw$, and it’s a fine line that separates his sounds from those within the Amityville Horror house. $anta’s descent down the chimney is aided by his slight frame. Over the course of 364 days each year, he feeds exclusively upon puffin and vape mist. His annual vape cartridge cache runs thin around day 300, and he is forced to ration. The more he rations the more he wiggles. Mother nature works in strange ways. It’s the wiggles that propel him smoothly up and down chimneys.
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BY JON SALINSKY
Once inside a home, $anta binges upon foods of opportunity which are generally cookies, candy, and occasionally your pet’s kibble. Spoiler alert, it was not your dog that left the empty candy wrappers and a goulash-like substance with an unearthly odor on the floor. After $anta feeds, he is drawn to the sparkling lights and shiny ornaments that hang from the Christmas tree. He doesn’t place gifts under the tree. Why would he? He replaces the “g” in gifts with an “s,” and he sifts. He searches for vape cartridges and pipes to replenish his stock. During his impassioned searches he sometimes breaks gifts. No-corn unicorns and dismembered Barbies and Kens are ghosts of his Christmases past. Despite his boorish behavior, he is not heartless. When he breaks a toy, he gifts the seeds of creativity. The seeds blossom into moments of family togetherness when for a moment a family falsely believes they can repair the toy. This scene repeats itself millions of times over the course of the long night. It ends just before dawn when $anta is so bloated that he no longer fits within the walls of a chimney and the wiggles subside. Satiated, he does not have energy for the long journey back to the North Pole, so he calls Uber. The only driver willing to take the ride is a tooth fairy. Tooth fairies don’t accept cash payment. The needle-nose pliers he carries are not for his teeth. They are for yours.
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WAN D E RLU ST
Carved through by the weaving Brazos River, Waco is most commonly known for being the home of Magnolia Market at the Silos. However, we were thrilled to find things to do that aren’t as well-known, but just as memorable! If you’re wondering what to do in Waco this weekend, or on your next vacation through the Heart of Texas, we’ve curated a fantastic list of things to do. Whether you’re a first-time visitor, are new to Waco or Baylor, or have been many times, we hope we can help you find all the best ways to explore Waco.
FALL IN LOVE WITH WACO 40+ Things to Do in Waco this Weekend
Stay at Our Ice Cream Themed Rental | If you’re looking for a unique place to stay in Waco, we think there’s no better place than our Ice Cream House at Casa Kumwesu. This 3-bedroom house with a loft can sleep 8+ people and comes with so many colorful amenities. It is sure to bring joy to your next Waco trip! —————————————————–————————————–————–— Waco Tours | A common theme that was pointed out to us by the leaders of our “Classic Waco Tour” (shout out to Harrison and Red with Waco-Tours) was how Waco has had its fair share of tragedy, but it has continued to bounce back and is blossoming as we speak! This guided tour gave us more insight into the rich history of the Waco area than if we had just explored on our own. We were so lucky to have such a knowledgeable tour guide who could share some detailed history about Martin Luther King Jr. Add one of their many tours to your list of things to do in Waco this weekend for a glimpse at what makes the city’s culture one you won’t find many other places. —————————————————–————————————–————–— Uptown Luxury at Sironia | A trip to Waco isn’t complete without a visit to Sironia in the Uptown area. The building once housed Sachs Austin Avenue in 1954. Unfortunately, its original location was destroyed in the devastating tornado that ripped through downtown Waco on May 11, 1953. Now, it’s filled with charming boutiques, a café serving Texas comfort food, and even a loft you can stay in! Pamper yourself as you explore every corner of Sironia! All the items at the Sironia Cafe are made fresh in-house daily. Don’t skip out on their famous desserts, including meringue pies, triple-layered cakes, and their top-selling strawberry cake. After enjoying a delectable meal, pick out something nice at one of their many local shops. —————————————————–————————————–————–— Waco Axe Company | Everyone can throw an axe (or a ninja star, army knife, shovel, etc.) and stick it, and Waco Axe Company can prove it! This local, veteran, and minority owned business started out as a mobile, axe-throwing trailer. Although they saw a lot of success during the pandemic, they were thrilled to open a permanent location. However, to this day you can catch them at Baylor University
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in their trailer for special events. Or, you can rent it for your next outdoor event! During your visit, your axe coach will help you find a throwing technique that works for you. Once everyone in your group has hit the target, they’ll guide you through games and challenges to hone your skills. Make sure to browse their arsenal! They have unique weapons including a shovel, cleaver, ninja stars, throwing knives, and even a bayonet! During the month of October, they paint their targets in neon paint. Then, after the sun goes down, they turn on the overhead black lights for some Spooky Season fun! Waco Axe Co. is a pet-friendly and BYOB/snack establishment. They also sell domestic and craft beers on-site. Don’t forget to snap a victory photo with their iconic photo op (a handcrafted wooden chair surrounded by sandbags and other military-themed decor) at the end of your session! Coowner Thomas didn’t want to copy the same old axe-throwing themes. Instead, he decided to pull from his military experience and incorporate it into Waco Axe Co.’s interior. When Thomas was deployed, he and his comrades actually used to entertain themselves using a neighboring tree and an axe. You’ll see all branches represented, not only in the
flags hanging from the ceiling, but among the staff, too! Thomas, his wife Christi, and their staff bring so much energy into the experience. You can tell they truly love what they do and the excitement is infectious. You’ll be amazed at some of their tricks, so you know you’re in great hands! Keep in mind participants must be 13 years old or older to throw. However, all ages are welcome inside and non-throwers are free. —————————————————–————————————–——– Tour Waco’s Wine Scene & Visit Valley Mills Vineyard | Waco is home to some of the most delicious craft wines and spirits in the region, so a wine tour is an activity you have to add to your list of things to do this weekend. With options ranging from vintage and private tours to brewery tours, Waco Wine Tours gives guests a taste of only the best. As you visit the different vineyards and breweries in Waco, there won’t be any shortage of tastings. One of the vineyards that you’ll visit is Valley Mills Vineyard—a beautiful winery on the outskirts of Waco that overlooks the grapes as they grow. You can walk through the vineyards and glimpse the same grapes that end up beautifully bottled not long after. There is also a winding staircase that leads up to a small porch on the roof where you can sip on your choice of wine. It’s the perfect spot for pictures! We love that all their wine is made from 100% Texas-grown grapes, with a variety of flavors, like Mourvedre and Vermentino. The great thing is that Valley Mills Vineyards provides such a scenic spot. If you choose to add a Waco Wine Tour to your list of things to do in Waco, you’ll also get a behind-the-scenes look at how the wines and beers are made along the way. —————————————————–————————————–——– Bathe in Beer at the Pivovar Hotel | One of the highlights of our stay at the Pivovar was the beer spa. You’ll soak in a copper bathtub filled with (continued) SocietyLifeMag.com
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photo: Architectural Digest
beer yeast and hops while sipping on a beer of your own! Beer yeast has many health benefits, including nutrients like iron and vitamin B. You can even add a massage if you’d like! Samples of beer soap, beer body milk, hair products, and shampoo are also available for guests of the hotel to use during their stay. You can still book a beer spa experience if you aren’t staying at the Pivovar this weekend, so if you have the time, we highly recommend adding this to your list of things to do in Waco. —————————————————–———————————– Shop at the Magnolia Market at the Silos | A trip to Waco, Texas isn’t complete without a visit to the Magnolia Market. It might just be the most popular spot in Waco! Encompassing two city blocks in downtown Waco, Magnolia Market at the Silos is a charming spot filled with personally curated collections, whether you’re seeking inspiration or a new statement piece for your home. From the hit HGTV show Fixer Upper, you can bring Chip and Joanna Gaines’ vision into your own life! Check out the refurbished church and silos at the heart of the market. The shops themselves are filled with everything from home decor and essentials to plants and paper goods. There is a baseball field you’re invited to enjoy along with cornhole games, soccer balls, bean bag chairs, and picnic tables with umbrellas—perfect for the entire family. Multiple food stands and food trucks are on-site as well, with a variety of offerings to fuel you as you explore. We really enjoyed the iced tea from the Alabama Sweet Tea Company. It came in the cutest mason jars that we got to keep. Refills are only $2, so it was definitely worth it! —————————————————–———————————– Hotel 1928 | Chip and Joanna Gaines’ antique, boutique hotel is ready for guests. For some, it’s the experience. Rooms with every comfort. Menus to linger over. Grand ballrooms for celebrating. Other people are drawn to the building’s history—architecture that tells a story and new details to discover on every visit. For nearly a century, the building on the corner of Washington Avenue and North 7th Street has been a place where people come to gather. —————————————————–———————————– Learn About the Baylor Bears | Another interesting and educational attraction in Waco is Baylor University. It’s not just known for its academic prowess, but also for its live bear mascots, Joy and Lady, who live on the Baylor University Campus. The Bill and Eva Williams Bear Habitat offers a natural living space for these Baylor Bears, complete with a waterfall, stream, and comfortable sleeping quarters. Visitors can observe the bears and learn about behavior, biology, and the university’s conservation efforts. It’s both fun and educational—especially for animal lovers and kids.
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Rage Room | If the reason for your next trip to Waco, Texas is centered around de-stressing, add the Waco Rage Room to your list of things to do this weekend. It’s the city’s first, themed rage room where you’re free to completely demolish everything in sight. Has work been wearing you out? Are you dealing with a breakup? Maybe you just want something new and fun to try? Whatever the reason may be, the Waco Rage Room has all the equipment necessary to assist you with releasing your pent-up emotions. All you need to do is show up and be ready to do some damage. The best part, leave the mess behind you, a metaphor for the stress in your life on your next weekend getaway to Waco. —————————————————–———————————– The Findery | If you’re on the lookout for unique furniture, room decor, or some inspiration for your next redecorating adventure, check out the Findery! They even have a small boutique section, with products ranging from clothes to accessories. We especially loved their fashionable, Baylor Bears spirit wear. If jerseys and plain old T-shirts aren’t your style, be sure to visit the Findery. —————————————————–———————————– Catch a Game at McLane Stadium | This one is for the sports fans. For those who find excitement in the roar of a crowd, the thrill of competition, and the camaraderie of hometown pride, McLane Stadium is the place to be! This state-of-the-art facility is home to the Baylor Bears football team and has quickly become an iconic symbol of Waco’s love for sports. With its stunning riverside setting, the stadium not only offers an action-packed game day experience, but also breathtaking views of the Brazos River and the Waco skyline. Whether you’re a die-hard Bears fan or a sports enthusiast exploring the city, catching a game at McLane Stadium is sure to be a highlight of your Waco experience. It’s not just a stadium—it’s a testament to Waco’s vibrant community spirit and its passion for sports. —————————————————–———————————– Dr Pepper Museum | As the birthplace of Dr Pepper, you have to add the Dr Pepper Museum to your list of things to do in Waco this weekend. This non-profit museum will take you through one of Waco’s marks on history, from Dr Pepper’s humble beginnings to how it is enjoyed worldwide. As you’ll continue to learn, there are a number of things to do in Waco that the city should also be known for! The Dr Pepper Museum is a fun place for kids and adults alike. Don’t miss out on their cute soda fountain for a refreshing soft drink. Book a Make-a-Soda appointment ahead of time to try your hand
at being a beverage chemist. You’ll learn about the traditional way that they used to mix sodas and how to properly keep a shaken soda from exploding. You can taste your chosen combination of syrups from their provided list before adding it to some carbonated water, the base of any bubble beverage. However, be warned, the syrups will be super concentrated before adding them in. Once you’ve mixed them, you’ll have your own unique soda to enjoy! The soda lab is retro-themed, and you’ll even be gifted with a paper beverage chemist hat to represent your newly acquired skill. Name your soda, create a logo and ingredient label to remember what you added for next time! Don’t forget to grab your coupon for a free bottled Dr Pepper from the soda parlor at the end. —————————————————–—————–——— Visit a Castle | Another gem brought to you by Chip and Joanna Gaines is Cottonland Castle. The century-old castle was renovated by the duo and was recently put up for auction. The next time you’re in Waco, add a “Classic Waco Tour” with Waco-Tours to your list of things to do this weekend and you’ll have a chance to see the outside of Cottonland Castle while learning about its history and renovation. —————————————————–————–———— Go Horseback Riding | Devote time on your list of things to do in Waco to soaking up the natural beauty of Central Texas at Brazos Bluffs Ranch. A working ranch, you can book activities like horse-drawn wagon rides and horseback riding. We did the “Lone Star Horseback at Sunset” tour and loved how accommodating the staff were so it was the best experience possible. It truly was one of the best things we did in Waco! Horseback riding is open to all skill levels. There’s a basic lesson beforehand so you’re comfortable with your horse. Then, drinks and snacks when you reach the bluffs that overlook the Brazos River. The view at sunset was absolutely unbelievable! You can even spend the night on the ranch, with options like a log home and a ranch house. —————————————————–—————–——— Visit Balcones Distillery the Birthplace of Texas’ First Whiskey | Enjoy tasting locally crafted whiskey at Balcones Distilling, an active brewery during the week that you can also tour on the weekends. The high Texas temperatures give Balcones Distilling’s whiskeys their intense and bold flavors they’re famous for. If you take a seat inside their tasting room, you can select the spirits you’d like to taste from their menu. You’ll be given proofing water so you can play with the flavors of the whiskeys, or if they’re a bit too strong for you. —————————————————–———————–— Surf in the Heart of Texas | Waco Surf is also a state-ofthe-art cable park that’s any adventure seeker’s dream! They offer surf lessons for all levels to help guests hone their skills. All classes include an hour of instruction and an hour of free reign surfing time. We tried out the Beginner Surf Academy and had the best time hanging ten—the instructors were absolutely amazing! They started by teaching us about the anatomy of the board and then helped us practice paddling and standing before hitting the waves. They push you off and help fix your form while teaching you commands and how to ride waves of varying difficulty. —————————————————–———————–— With so many Waco attractions, it’s hard to fit everything into one weekend, so be sure to come back again and again! We also could not fit it all here in this space and there’s so much more to love about Waco, Texas! Check out even more fun things to do in Waco online at: tinyurl.com/WacoWeekend SocietyLifeMag.com
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NOV 30 • EXHIBITION PREMIER - THE NAZARENES: GERMANY’S 19TH CENTURY AVANT-GARDE ARTISTS • Please join us on Thursday, November 30th from 6-8pm for the exhibition premier of ‘The Nazarenes: Germany’s 19th Century Avant-Garde Artists.’ Enjoy live piano music, wine and hors d’oeuvres as you explore Gallery 19C—an international gallery in Westlake focusing exclusively on the 19th century. Founders, Eric Weider and Polly Sartori, represent a unique combination of expertise and passion for the 19th century. No one is better positioned to serve today’s passionate collector by introducing them to the quality, variety and diversity of the spectacular 19th century. The Gallery 19C is located at 1500 Solana Boulevard in Building 5, Suite 5150 in Westlake 76262. The exhibition will run November 29, 2023 to January 31, 2024. It will feature works of art including ‘The Triumph of Christ by Joseph von Führich.’ For more about Gallery 19C, visit: gallery19c.com ................................................................. DEC 2 & 3 • THE ANNUAL KELLER HIGH SCHOOL INDIANETTE CRAFT SHOW • Come shop until you drop at the annual Keller High School Indianette Craft Show! The 2023 show hours are Saturday, Dec. 2nd from 9am to 5pm, and then Sunday Dec. 3rd from11am to 4pm. There will be over 250 vendors selling Christmas decorations and holiday crafts. There will also be specialty food items like hot sauces, jams, chocolate, candies, and doggies treats. And don’t miss out on the bath and body items, luxury soaps, lotions and aromatherapy, ladies’ and children’s clothing, jewelry and accessories. Make sure to catch the huge Silent Auction, Pictures with Santa, Homemade Bake Sale (by Indianette Families), and the cafeteria will be open for snacks, plus food trucks! Show will be at Keller High School with admissions fees of $5 for adults, $3 for students, and 5 and under free. Visit: indianettes.com/craft-show ................................................................. DEC 3 • CWC HOLIDAY HOME TOUR • It's back! The Colleyville Woman's Club is bringing back its popular Holiday Home Tour on December 3rd from 11am until 5pm. This year, the CWC is featuring three fabulous Colleyville Homes (one is over 18,000 sq. ft.) and historic Webb House and Caboose—all decked out for the holidays. There will be Santa's Sweet Stop featuring local vendors plus a raffle featuring fantastic items. Parking will be at the new Colleyville Recreation Center. The CWC hasn’t held the Home Tour for four years, but the event’s return is eagerly awaited and a sign the Holiday Season has begun! For more, please visit: C-W-C.org/events/home-tour .................................................................
DEC 5 • CHRISTMAS CONCERT • Concerts on Harwood is a classical music concert series aimed at sharing the joy of classical music with our neighbors. Join us for a Christmas Concert with Concert Bells of Fort Worth—an auditioned community handbell ensemble of advanced ringers from North Texas dedicated to musical excellence through their artistic handbell performance. Founded in 1998, the group performs a diverse repertoire, from classical transcriptions to innovative original works, with precision and musical sensitivity. Ticket price is free, but donations are appreciated. Emmanuel Presbyterian Church is located at 2701 Harwood Road in Bedford 76021. The piano Recital will be held at 7:30pm. Visit: emmanuelpc.org/concerts-on-harwood .................................................................. DEC 15 & 16 • DISNEY’S ENCANTO IN CONCERT LIVE TO FILM • Tickets on sale now! Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Academy award-winning film comes to life in a concert event, featuring the entire feature-length film with the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra performing the score. Disney’s Encanto in Concert Live to Film will come to Fort Worth on Dec. 15 at 7:30pm and Dec. 16 at 2pm at Will Rogers Memorial Auditorium. Encanto soundtrack features eight original songs. Tickets can be purchased by calling FWSO Ticket Office at (817) 665-6000 or visit: fwsymphony.org/Encanto-in-Concert .................................................................. FEB 7, 2024 • ANNUAL PEACE. LOVE. SHINE. GALENTINE’S EVENT • House of Shine’s Peace. Love. Shine. Fundraiser is the event of the year that you won’t want to miss! It is a unique celebration of extraordinary women who shine both personally and professionally. Imagine a fusion of Galentine’s Day and Oprah’s Favorite Things, where you not only discover the brilliance of accomplished women, but also receive one of their favorite things. It’s a night where everyone walks away feeling like a winner! You’ll have the chance to bid on exclusive experiences that provide a deeper connection with these remarkable women. The atmosphere is electric (this year, at the stunning Glass Cactus at Gaylord Texan) and seating is limited. Based on past years, we anticipate another sold-out event, so don't wait to secure your seat! Grab a group of friends and join us as we reveal this year’s Women Who Shine and the Things They Love from 5:30-10:30pm. Tickets are $150 and can be bought at: tinyurl.com/PLShine .................................................................. First-come, first-served. Include your event’s name, date, time, location, ticket pricing, contact information, website, and brief explanation. Allow 45 days advance notice of your event: elena@societylifemagazine.com ................................................................. SocietyLifeMag.com
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SL 6 Questions About
The Colleyville Women’s Club is celebrating 45 years in our community! Its members believe in ‘Caring with Commitment’ to enhance the community through education, charitable fundraising, volunteer service and other membership activities. Join them at their 35th Holiday Home Tour.
COLLEYVILLE WOMEN’S CLUB HOLIDAY HOME TOUR BY MARY MACDOWELL
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HOLIDAY HOME TOUR Colleyville Woman’s Club 35th Holiday Home Tour
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The Colleyville Woman’s Club Holiday Home Tour is back! Christmas hasn’t felt the same without this yuletide tradition. Four homes will be showcased: three private mansions majestically decorated, plus Colleyville’s historic Webb House and the BNSF Caboose draped in traditional décor of that era. Each home has its distinct elegance and style. Grandeur of collectibles, artwork, memorabilia will astound. This beloved holiday event is Colleyville Woman’s Club’s (CWC) signature fundraiser that attracts over 1,200 attendees. Kim Harrison, Holiday Home Tour Chair, is excited to bring back the tour for the first time since COVID. “We are celebrating 45 years of community service, and this is our 35th Holiday Home Tour. Many have made this an annual tradition. There’s no better way to start your holiday season!” Held on Sunday, December 3rd, from 11am to 5pm, this year’s event will be managed with an efficiency that benefits all attending guests. No longer will you drive to and fro, get caught in traffic, or park a mile down the road. The Holiday Home Tour starts and ends at the new Colleyville Recreation Center. Once there, you check-in at the registration table, pick up your tour booklet, and be whisked away by complementary shuttle bus service to each home. It will be like riding along with Santa in his sleigh! Don’t hurry along too fast. Santa’s Sweet Shop will be set up inside the center. Bring your wallet to shop for those last-minute Christmas gifts or treat yourself to something special. Mingle, jingle, and share the holiday spirit with friends, family, and tour mates while enjoying light refreshments and mulling over unique items from 18 local vendors. Instead of visions of sugar plums, imagine gifts of luxury sleepwear and home décor, jewelry, Botox, and so much more! And don’t forget to purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win fabulous prizes. In addition to experiencing the Christmas splendor, you will be supporting your community by raising money for the various charities that the CWC supports. ———————————————————————— WHO: The Colleyville Woman’s Club, a 501c3 service and charitable organization, kicked off its 2023-24 year by commemorating its 45th Anniversary. CWC was founded in 1978 by six women as the Newcomer’s Club. It has evolved over the years into a non-profit volunteer service organization that has raised over $4 million to better the lives of hundreds of women, children, and families in our community. Formed in 1978, the Colleyville Woman’s Club is dedicated to serving the people within and around Northeast Tarrant County. The Club’s extraordinary successes have included unique fundraisers, such as its Spring Fashion Benefit, the spirited annual Bridge Marathon, and their famous Haltom’s Fine Jewelers Shopping Party. ———————————————————————–—
FAST FACTS
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CWC 35th HOLIDAY HOME TOUR
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Sunday, December 3, 2023 from 11am to 5pm ———————————––– COLLEYVILLE RECREATION CENTER 5008 ROBERTS ROAD COLLEYVILLE, TEXAS 76034 ———————————–––
3 EXQUISITELY DECORATED COLLEYVILLE HOMES, PLUS COLLEYVILLE’S HISTORIC WEBB HOUSE & CABOOSE ———————————––– Parking will not be available at the homes, so park your car at the recreation center then take Complementary Shuttle Bus Service to the homes and back ..................................................... Santa’s Sweet Shop with 18 Fabulous Local Vendors, so bring your wallet! ..................................................... Light Refreshments ..................................................... Photos with Santa in one home ..................................................... Valuable Raffle to Win Fabulous Prizes! $5 each or 5 for $20 ———————————––– Tickets: Advance Online Registration is $40 and Day of Tour is $45. Purchase online or at the Day of Event at the Colleyville Recreation Center ———————————–––
LEARN MORE BY VISITING
c-w-c.org/events/home-tour
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SL 6 Questions About
C O L L E Y V I L L E W O M E N ’ S C L U B 3 5 T H H O L I D AY H O M E T O U R
WHAT: Colleyville Woman’s Club presents their 35th Holiday Home Tour sponsored by Krystal Jost of Ebby Halliday Southlake. Enjoy four exquisitely decorated Colleyville homes— one historical gem (Colleyville’s Historic Webb House and Caboose) and three exquisite private homes. Don’t miss photos with Santa in one of the featured homes on the tour. ......................................................................................................................................................... The Historical Webb House and BNSF Caboose | One of Colleyville’s most historic sites, the Webb House was built in 1914 and stands in what was once the settlement of Bransford, one of the early communities that would later become known as Colleyville. The Webb House will be holiday decorated according to the style of the times. ......................................................................................................................................................... Home of Frank Hague and Kathryn Dean | Once named Wall Street Journal’s Home of the Year, this 18,000 sq.ft., 3-Story, French Chateau masterpiece with elevator sits on 2-acres of Parisian gardens. Exotic touches of Spain/Moroccan, Egyptian, African-themed rooms. Hand-painted 30-foot dome entry features a Murano 3-tiered chandelier, floor-to-ceiling fireplaces, marble statues, and Italian water fountain. Primary suite wing has replica of an antique bed on-board Titanic. Collection of luxury and antique vehicles—Rolls Royce Mansory Ghost once owned by David Beckham, Ferrari, Brabus, Nascar, Indy 500 driven by Sam Hornish Jr. ......................................................................................................................................................... A Texas Christmas Treasure | Lavish luxury meets Texas charm. Soaring cathedral ceilings, rich wood throughout add Texas culture to this timeless beauty. Master suite is a sanctuary of its own with private massage room and soaking tub. Game room contains shuffleboard, card table, pool table. Screened-in porch is striking and perfect place to relax with fireplace and massive cooking area. Nestled on 2-acres, the backyard has a woodburning oven, professional volleyball court, putting green and a sparkling pool—professional athlete’s dream! ......................................................................................................................................................... Home of Shawn and Julie Lucht | Artful glow of timeless elegance with a sophisticated modern twist. New construction masterpiece features meticulously designed spaces that seamlessly blend old with new. Stunning herringbone flooring and exquisite use of wallpaper reveals a personalized canvas that reflects the style of its owners, and defines life experiences, one stunning backdrop at a time. Every nook and cranny tells a tale of passion for art. ——————————————————————————–————————–————— WHERE: Tour begins and ends at Colleyville Recreation Center at 5008 Roberts Road in Colleyville 76034. Park your car here and take complementary shuttle bus service to homes and back. Don’t forget to stop by Santa’s Sweet Shop with 18 local vendors. Enjoy refreshments and get tickets to the raffle to win fabulous prizes (see raffle ticket on page 71). Raffle tickets are $5 each or 5 for $20. Parking not available at the homes. No strollers or high heels. ——————————————————————————–————————–————— WHEN: Sunday, December 3, 2023 from 11am until 5pm ——————————————————————————–————————–————— WHY: The Colleyville Woman’s Club believes in caring with commitment and enhancing the community through education, charitable fundraising, volunteer service, and membership activities. They are always exploring new ways to raise charitable funds and scholarship awards to deserving seniors in area schools. The CWC members know that one individual can make a difference and so they strive to recognize and appreciate all levels of giving—from in-kind donation of services and unique auction and gift items to the philanthropic underwriters whose generosity anchors their foundation for commitment! Each important, each significant, and each is valued beyond measure! Whether you donate in cash, in-kind, with your time, or by attending this holiday home tour, CWC believes we can make a big difference! ——————————————————————————–————————–————— HOW: Tickets: Advance Online Registration is $40 and Day of Tour is $45. Purchase online at c-w-c.org/events/home-tour or at the Colleyville Recreation Center the day of the tour. (Please Note: No printed or electronic tickets will be issued. Check in at the Colleyville Recreation Center by name to receive a printed program which will allow entrance to all homes.) ———–—————————————————————–—————–—————————————————————–—————– Colleyville Woman's Club | P.O. Box 181 | Colleyville, Texas 76034 | c-w-c.org | facebook.com/CWCcaring | fundraising@C-W-C.org —————————–———————————————–—————–—————————————————————–—————–
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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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
My Lan Vietnamese Kitchen • Steaming pho bowls, heaping rice plates, crispy egg rolls. Vietnamese staples are soulful with reasonable prices. • Colleyville mylanvietnamesekitchen.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 Oak Street Food and Brew • Food hall with chefdriven food—from fish and chips to overstuffed baked potatoes, to craft bbq. Expansive gathering place for groups. • Roanoke oakstreetfoodandbrew.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
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 forthe 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 deliver your bouquet just like a florist and brighten the day of any recipient! Cookies, cakes, cupcakes, treats. • Southlake cakepopsbyalli.com
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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
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
j 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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Personalized Grazing • Specializing in customized charcuterie boards and personalizing your culinary experiences. Classes, gifts, filled and unfilled boards, custom boards. • Southlake personalizedgrazing.com
Toasted Yolk • Perfectly poached eggs, crunchy bacon, layer upon layer of turkey and pastrami—these are delicacies we dream about at night, and they’re the ones we want to wake up to! • Keller thetoastedyolk.com
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
Townhouse Brunch • Twists on omelettes, benedicts, pancakes, salads, sandwiches. Sweet banana Nutella crepes or savory “everything spiced” avocado toast—cravings covered! • Colleyville townhousebrunch.com
j 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
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
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
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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
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
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
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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
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
To Chai For • Go-to for satisfying cravings! Serving coffee, chai lattes, scones, paninis, and waffles—every sip and bite is full of flavor, and made from scratch. Nothing pre-packaged ever! • Keller coffeekeller.com
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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
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
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
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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
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
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
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
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
Hollywood’s Pour Shack • Comes alive when 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. A new standard for burgers! • 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 counterstyle multi-culti twist. • Keller & Grapevine la-burger.com Old Town Ice House • Burgers, po-boys, wings, tacos, salads, artisan brews— celebrating ice industry in its heyday, as well as the founding of Keller during that era. Raise an ice-cold glass with us! • Keller oldtownicehouse.com CAJUN ............................................................................................... Bayou Jack’s Cajun Grill • Part soulfuajun, part vibrant cocktails, two parts bon temps. Jambalaya, po boys, grilled oysters, étouffée. Drink swamp juice, Hurricane Kris and Abita on tap. • Roanoke bayoujackscajungrill.com Copeland’s • Authentic taste of the Big Easy adjacent to the Hilton Southlake lobby. Soul satisfying eggplant pirogue and mind-blowing bananas foster French toast. • In the Hilton Hotel Southlake copelandsofneworleans.com GREEK / MEDITERRANEAN ................................................................. j Aladdin Mediterranean Café • Vibrant eatery and culinary journey through rich flavors of the Mediterranean. Nestled in a neighborhood—beloved by food enthusiasts seeking authentic tastes. • NFW aladdinmedicafe.site Café Medi • Devoted fans—they give as much attention to vegetarian dishes as their succulent grilled and braised meats. BYOB. Salads, hummus, falafel and fool. Their lamb shanks really shine. • Keller & Hurst cafemedi.com
j Ferah Tex-Med Kitchen • Innovative fusion cuisine, paired with gorgeous upscale restaurant 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 delicious food. Grab a drink. • Southlake istanbulcuisinesouthlake.com INDIAN .......................................................................................... Mughlai Fine Indian Cuisine • Courtly cuisine of Mughal royalty—familiar dishes like lamb roghan josh and chicken tikka masala served alongside obscure dishes from authentic Indian street fare. • Southlake mughlaidfw.com ITALIAN / PIZZA ............................................................................... Armend’s Restaurante • Family restaurant serving authentic Italian dishes including made-from-scratch pizzas, home-style pastas and 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 shaded outdoor patio to the courtyard bar. Upscale enough for the date-night crowd, but casual enough for locals wandering in from their shopping. • Southlake Town Square brioitalian.com Calabrese Ristorante and Bar • Authentic Italian fare with ingredients imported from Italy—modern and traditional Italian dishes to please every palate. Wine list as seductive as the atmosphere. • Southlake ilcalabrese.com Coal Vines • Pizza wine bar separating good pizza from great—a perfect crunch and just a speckling of char. This pie was made for good vino. Fortunately, they have plenty of that on hand as well! • Southlake coalvinespizza.com Delucca Gaucho Pizza & Wine • Slice-after-slice of gourmet pizza—garlic picanha, shrimp and fontina, Turkish lamb—along with cheese or pepperoni— brought to your table oven hot. All you can eat perfection! delucca.com 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. The roasted entrées from the wood fired oven are standouts. 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 now arrived—crust is perfectly thin and crisp and cheese and toppings first-rate. Brooklyn charm here to go with some excellent pizza. • Grapevine grimaldispizzeria.com i Fratelli Pizza • Distinctive thin-n-crispy pizza, handmade sauces, dressings, dessert—favs for 30 years. Delivery committed to exceeding expectations with their exemplary service and fast delivery. • Southlake, Keller, NFW ifratelli.net Jonny’s Pizza • At Jonny's Pizza, they only use the freshest ingredients in their New York-style hand-tossed pizzas. All of their tasty Italian cuisine and other dishes are made in-house as well. • Fort Worth jonnyspizzany.com Inzo Italian Kitchen • Old-world menu with a new-world accent. Using fresh ingredients and doing things the way Nonna did years ago. One taste is all it takes to be amazed. Buon appetito! • Roanoke inzoitalian.com
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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
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
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
SEAFOOD ................................................................................. j Acquario Italian Seafood • Where coastal Italy meets Texan flair. Symphony of flavors incredibly fresh seafood harmonizing alongside premier steaks from Texas Ranchers. • Keller acquariorestaurant.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 with polenta, 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
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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
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 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
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
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
Del Campo Empanadas • Empanadas with savories like chicken, ham, spinach, picanha steak. Dipped in chimichurri. No-fuss meal. Grab-and-go snack. Sweet treats here also. • Fort Worth delcampoempanadas.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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Mac’s on Main • Southwestern, cajun and global influences. Steaks, signature prime rib, seafood. Cocktails, beer, 30+ single malt scotches, wine. Locally owned and operated, one-of-a-kind. • Grapevine macsteak.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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Winewood • American fare with modern flair: Waldorf salads, Dagwood club, Niman Ranch pork chops and chicken Cordon Bleu. Ideal for family meals, business lunches or celebrations. • Grapevine thewinewood.com ........................................................................................................................ 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!
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
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Big Fish Seafood • Fresh seafood, including lots of Cajun options, plus great drink specials and frequent live music in a rustic and relaxed setting. Known for treating guests like family. • Grapevine bigfishgrapevine.com
This is one of the prettiest dishes I have ever made and it is so simple! This easy and elegant dinner party dish is sure to impress... or a fun way to jazz up any weekday. Make Goat Cheese Beet Stacks! ‘Tis beet season, after all.
RoseTableRecipes THEROSETABLE.COM
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KATIE-ROSE WATSON
SL
...................................................................................... HOW DO YOU ROAST BEETS IN A FOIL PACKET? Make a little foil packet by setting beets on a square of aluminum foil, then set a second piece of foil on top and crimp the edges together to seal. Roast the beets with nothing (no olive oil, no salt, no pepper) until they’re tender, then pinch off the skins before popping in the fridge to chill. You can even roast the beets a day in advance if you’d like. ...................................................................................... HOW DO YOU MAKE WHIPPED GOAT CHEESE? The texture of the whipped goat cheese is divine. I’m never going back. I’m officially a whipped goat cheese girly! Just beat room temperature goat cheese with a bit of milk until it’s light and fluffy. That’s it! ...................................................................................... HOW DO YOU MAKE BEET STACKS? At serving time, just slice the beets, spoon a generous amount of whipped goat cheese on each layer, and top with lots of crushed pistachios. The pistachios make it so don’t skip them! The crush of the pistachio goes so well with the creaminess of the whipped goat cheese and the earthiness of the beets. ......................................................................................
INGREDIENTS: 3 medium beets 4 oz goat cheese 1.5 Tbsp milk 2 Tbsp pistachios, finely chopped Garnish with: balsamic reduction, olive oil, salad greens ......................................................................................
(1) Roast the beets: Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Cut the tops off of beets, rinse, and dry. Wrap the clean beets in one large foil packet, crimping the edges. Place the foil packet on a baking tray and bake for 40-50 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center pierces the beets easily. Unwrap and set aside until cool enough to handle, then pinch off the skins. Chill in the fridge. ......................................................................................
(2) Whip goat cheese with milk until creamy. ......................................................................................
3) Drizzle serving plate with balsamic reduction and add a few salad greens for garnish. ......................................................................................
(4) Slice the beets into thirds, removing the tops. Spread each layer with whipped goat cheese, then add a generous amount of crushed pistachios on top. Drizzle beet stacks with olive oil and serve immediately. ...................................................................................
note: This recipe easily doubles. Three beets — one standard bundle — is perfect with a small goat cheese log. I hope you love this dish as much as my mom and I do! Happy stacking!
GOAT CHEESE BEET
Stacks SocietyLifeMag.com
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NOVEMBER 2023
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SL WhereLocalsGo PHOTOS BY LORRAINE HAAN-STEWART REVIEW BY JENNIFER SLOAN
BOHEMIAN BULL
TA V E R N & B E E R G A R D E N
Having lived in Colleyville, Grapevine or Southlake most of my life, I have collected a set of seemingly fixed landmarks to use for directions—especially when talking to my parents. “You know, it’s over by Yates Corner” or “It’s kind of by Stacy Furniture” and “It’s over by Chef Point… no the old gas station Chef Point.” It’s those places that have been around forever. One such reference point was BoBo China in Grapevine—meaning somewhere between 114 and Main Street if you’re going down Northwest Highway. Even after it closed some four years ago—the building and the sign remained until about a year ago. The building is now in its hipster era brought back to life as Bohemian Bull Tavern and Beer Garden, a haven for beer enthusiasts, culinary adventurers, trivia players and music lovers alike. I say “hipster” lovingly as it can stand up to even the most overly discerning crowd. With its fusion of vibrant ambiance, psychedelic Instagram-worthy bull decor and delectable offerings, it’s quickly become a destination for locals and out-of-towners looking to just let their hair down. And parents like me looking for a fenced in patio for my feral four-nado to explore while I enjoy
a much-needed adult beverage. Let’s start there. At the heart of Bohemian Bull lies an extensive and carefully curated selection of craft beers. Beer enthusiasts revel in the diverse array of locally-sourced brews, international favorites and specialty creations. From hoppy IPAs to hearty stouts and crisp ciders, the beer menu caters to all palates. The knowledgeable staff is always happy to guide patrons through the offerings, ensuring a delightful journey for both beer aficionados and those new to the craft beer scene. Beyond its impressive beer selection, Bohemian Bull also extensive specialty cocktail and bourbon cocktail menus. There are familiar favorites on each, such as the Strawberry Frosé: a refreshing blend of frozen Rosé, fresh strawberries and peach schnapps. Mamas, these come in regular and large size. And the trusty, yet rare in these parts, Mint Julep on the bourbon cocktail menu. All selections from this menu come standard with Elijah Craig Small Batch. For my thrill seekers, the Butterfly Key Lime Margarita is not to be missed. This gorgeous purple cocktail combines coconut tequila, key lime infused butterfly pea flower and cream of
coconut. The glass is rimmed with graham crackers and butterfly pea flower and the result is a toasted coconut Margaritaville vibe—a mini beach vacation in a glass. For something a little more holiday-esque, the Deja Brew is an espresso martini with notes of brown sugar, cinnamon and orange. The food menu is all-encompassing (and kid friendly), boasting a fusion of flavors that elevate traditional pub fare to a modern level. Whether indulging in signature artisanal burgers, tantalizing appetizers or just a dessert—every dish reflects Bohemian Bull’s commitment to a casual, yet elevated vibe. If you’re a burger fan (dare I say) Bohemian Bull’s Boho Burgers are second to none and here’s why: they have a wide variety
of options—from simple to eclectic. I most often prefer a veggie burger and the Black Bean Burger featured loads of minced veggies accompanied by gouda cheese. It was filling without weighing me down. A perfect solution if you’re wanting to save space for a beer or bourbon flight. And if you’re looking to cut the carbs, there’s also the bacon cheeseburger salad. From the appetizers, my not-to-be-missed item is the popper deviled eggs. The traditional Southern shareable gets a spicy makeover with pickled jalapeños and pimento cheese. Of course, it’s topped with bacon, and a dusting of blackening spice for a little extra punch. Bohemian Bull Tavern & Beer Garden fits right in with the vibrant and diverse culture of the historic Grapevine area. Its fusion of bohemian charm, exceptional beers and craveable cuisine creates an atmosphere that invites both locals and tourists to revel in its eclectic offerings. Whether you’re looking for a casual night out with friends or the kids, catching a game or taking a date for a friendly game of trivia, Bohemian Bull proves to be a must-visit destination for those in search of an unforgettable experience... and that’s no bull!
1112 West Northwest Highway | Grapevine, Texas 76051 | (682) 223-1384 | M-Th 11a-11p | Fri-Sat 11a-12a | Sun 11a-11p | bohemianbull.com
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SocietyLifeMag.com
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