New Year, New Focus
Find the Power to Lose the Weight…for Good! It’s time. No more excuses. This is the year you take your power back. Or maybe find it for the first time. You’re going to gain control over your health and weight. To finally look and feel the way you want to. For good!What will you need to make it happen? Focus. That’s right. You’re going to need more than a little of that good stuff if you’re going to identify, develop, execute...
Trekking Taos – Adventure to Taos, New Mexico
By Annette Brooks My first time in Taos, New Mexico, was a whirlwind affair. I thought a one night stay added to a Santa Fe vacation would be fine, but it wasn’t nearly enough. The Taos community has a one-of-a-kind laid back vibe along with a storied, proud history, multiple cultures living side by side, and a heritage of colorful people. The area also offers a rich array of activities for outdoor enthusiasts—and you’ll find...
How to Stop Procrastinating Today!
Not tomorrow (or the day after that, or the day after that) By Mimi Greenwood Knight “Only put off until tomorrow what you are willing to die having left undone.” – Pablo Picasso How ironic is it that I’ve been putting off writing this article on procrastination? Okay, not really (editor’s note: good) but I am writing it now to avoid writing something more pressing, making me the quintessential procrastinator. While many...
Practicing Gratitude – How Being Thankful Can Actually Improve Your Health
By Mimi Greenwood Knight “Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all the others.” — Marcus Tullius Cicero We all enjoy being around people who are naturally grateful. And most of us try to cultivate an attitude of gratitude in ourselves. But did you realize there’s a connection between being grateful and your mental and physical health? “There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though...
All I Want For Christmas is Food
Photos and recipes by Meghan YAGER ‘Tis the season for spending time with family, and one of the best places to make memories is the kitchen! This month, with mugs of slow cooker hot chocolate in hand, bring the gratitude and holiday feelings to life by baking classic gingerbread cookies and a seasonal eggnog pull apart loaf. Pull Apart Eggnog Loaf WITH CREAM CHEESE FROSTING Serves: 4 to 6 | Time: 55 minutes for the dough: 2...
Christmas in the city of a Hundred Spires – Christmas in Prague
By Annette Brooks Prague shines brilliantly among Central Europe’s glittering jewels of art, culture, and architecture in any season, but during Christmastime, the city is sheer magic, transforming into a festive winter wonderland. And if you’re lucky enough to find it blanketed in sparkling snow, its romantic charms will dazzle you. Old Town Square is the main place to be and to see in Prague. Covering around a quarter...
Fighting the Feisty Flu – Three Ways to Fight the Flu and Stay Healthy
3 Ways to Keep it at Bay and Stay Healthy By David Buice Flu season is upon us. While it’s possible to contract influenza (the flu) any time, the number of flu cases often increases during October and peaks between December and February, though widespread activity can continue as late as May. There’s no way to make yourself “bullet proof” against the flu, but there are steps you can take to reduce the chances of getting it or...
Life Among the Mountains
Lodgepole Retreat, near Allenspark, Colorado PROJECT BY AND COURTESY OF Arch11 Photos by Raul Garcia BUILT by J.A. LONG CONSTRUCTION COMPANY About the architects: Founded in 1993, Arch11 is recognized for precision, craft, and a modern sensibility that anchors buildings to their sites, heightening the experience of materials and place. They design solutions specific to place, purpose, and client, and are continuous learners,...
Best Face Forward
Make a Few Refreshing Changes Before Holiday Events and Photos By Audrey Ashe We all want to put our best face on when it comes time to visit with friends and family over the holidays. Amidst reminiscing and catching up on who’s doing what, social functions are also exciting places to show off that new haircut or cute cocktail dress. Of course, there are times when looking back at photos leaves you feeling less than fabulous....
Taking Your Breath Away
Looking at a Few Common Lung Issues By David Buice Breathing is essential to life, and our lungs are part of a very complicated apparatus that expands and contracts nearly 20,000 times daily as our bodies take in oxygen and expel carbon dioxide. Lung disease can result from problems in any part of this vital system—and there are a few problems that afflict tens of millions of Americans every year. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary...
Weird Texas
Things you’ve never seen—just outside your front door In addition to its well known wide-open ranges, rolling vineyard-filled hills, and action-packed theme parks, Texas has its share of odd destinations—really odd destinations. From kitschy roadside attractions to towns devoted to beloved rodents to alien gravesites, Texas truly has it all. Cadillac Ranch Amarillo When people think of Texas oddities, it’s possible that they first...
Stick to Your Ribs
Smoky, tangy, indulgent favorites for all. Photos and recipes by Meghan Bassett In Texas it’s always grilling season, and we’re taking advantage of it. In honor of our Texas issue, this month we’re headed back to basics with a classic BBQ spread. Our version of dry rub ribs pairs with a tangy vinegar slaw and some super comfortable baked mac and cheese that’ll leave you and your guests super satisfied—and perhaps ready for a little...
When it’s Winter
Though it might not feel like it now, winter is right around the corner—and like so much Texas weather, it’s impossible to predict what it might have in store. But even if we don’t see any snow, cold temperatures are worth paying attention to. Get your home cold-weather-ready with these simple steps. Tune Up Your Heating System A professional technician can inspect your furnace or heat pump to be sure the system is clean and in good...
Updating A Houston Classic
About the Designer: Founded in 1991 by principal Jay Baker, Jay Baker Architects is Houston’s premier residential architecture firm known for harmonizing form and function. For more than 25 years, the firm has designed new homes, renovations, and additions throughout Houston and Southeast Texas, leaving an indelible mark on the architectural tapestry of the region. The firm has committed itself to providing a uniquely engaging and...
Treatment Time
For breast implants or lifts, fall and winter make for perfect timing. Everything’s bigger in Texas, right? So, if you’ve been thinking about enhancing your bust line, then fall and winter are a great time to consider it, so you can have that downtime to be camouflaged beneath cold-weather attire. “Colder weather months are a good time to undergo surgery,” said Constance M. Chen, MD, FACS, a board certified plastic surgeon...
Celebrating Our Style Icons
What Would Make Your List? Texas has embraced and nurtured an attitude and style all its own from the very beginning. Not surprisingly, when it comes to fashion, design, and tastemakers, natives of the Lone Star state make an impact. We’ve rounded up a few of our favorite style icons to highlight in our edition that celebrates everything Texas. Tom Ford When it comes to world-renowned fashion designers, many would agree that...
Deep In The Heart
Focus On Being Heart Healthy. Cardiovascular disease takes many forms. These include high blood pressure, coronary heart disease, valvular heart disease, stroke, and arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat). Astoundingly, the World Health Organization estimates that worldwide 17 million people die annually from cardiovascular disease. In this country about 80 million people have some form of cardiovascular disease, and it’s responsible for...
Abundant Allergens
Our state is a hot spot for sniffles and sneezes. We all know Texas is big. Almost three United Kingdoms or more than six Icelands could fit inside the Lone Star State. Unfortunately, Texas is also a huge hot spot for allergy sufferers. In its report released in spring of this year, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) listed McAllen as the No. 1 most challenging place to live in the entire nation for spring allergies,...
Finding Home
A young artist returns to Texas By Audrey Ashe There’s an old saying, “You can take the girl out of Texas, but you can’t take Texas out of the girl.” Years ago, I would’ve rolled my eyes at this. I still may, but perhaps with a little more whimsy. As a child who grew up in rural Texas just north of Dallas, I have memories as far back as I can remember of distinctly not wanting to be in Texas. Being a decidedly shy kid who was much...
Make the Most of Outdoor Concerts
For many music lovers, there are few things better than an evening spent at a concert, sprawled out on the lawn with friends. Concerts and interesting venues can also be reasons for traveling and excuses to explore a new city or revisit a favorite location. Whether you’re checking out a concert near home or building a vacation around concert moments and memories, music expert and entertainment reporter Chelsea Briggs offers these tips...
Make Summer Sweeter with Fresh Cherries
Summer and cherries seem to go hand-in-hand, and using fresh fruits can help boost seasonal food and drink recipes. Whether you use them as a snack, as a special ingredient in recipes or to inspire new dishes, Northwest-grown sweet cherries are one delightful way to celebrate the summer season. Many grocery store shelves are full of these sweet, seasonal treats. Ripened on the tree and generally harvested, packed and ready for sale...
Prevent Pets from Fleeing in Fright
Summer social gatherings and celebrations can add up to a lot of fun for humans, but it’s an equation that may test the limits for a fearful pet. The break in day-to-day consistencyand the chaos that comes with festivities can cause pets to escape in search of solace, which often times results in them leaving their loved ones behind. “During the summer months, we tend to take a step away from our usual routines and that can be very...
A Fit, Fun Summer
Make smart fitness choices with post-workout recovery and hydration. During warm-weather months, fitness enthusiasts often take their exercise routines to the great outdoors.The spike in summer temperatures can make those tough workouts even more challenging. Even after your workout is complete, your body does not stop – after a tough sweat session in the summer heat, you need to replenish what you lost to rebuild and refuel muscles....
Pursue Your Travel Passions
Ask nearly any person about his or her dream trip and watch a smile appear as the perfect personal excursion is described. Now, ask why the trip has yet to happen, and time and money will be the likely culprits. The misconceived notions that may be holding you back from traveling can feel especially exacerbated during busy seasons when travel costs rise and coordinating vacation schedules with coworkers becomes a challenge. Carving...
Be the Hero of Your Grill This Summer
Nothing brings people together like a barbecue. There seems to be something about being outdoors and the sizzle of fresh food on the grill that makes you want to gather with family and friends. This summer, you can be the hero of your grill with a few simple tips and tricks: A great meal starts with great meat. Make sure to use versatile, high-quality and tender cuts like Smithfield Fresh Pork ribs, chops and tenderloins. Cut down on...
Healthy Summer Hair Care
While the sun, pool days and warmer temperatures are often a welcome change come summer, they can be brutal on your hair. It’s important to give your locks some extra love this season. “The sun, sweat and chlorine can fade color fast. Make sure you have the right products to protect your hair,” said Heather Brodzin, director of salon and spa with Beauty Brands. “Whether it’s styling aids, hair protectants, a smoother or moisturizer,...
Make the Most of Summer College Visits
For students entering their senior year of high school or current college students considering a transfer, there’s no better way to determine whether a college or university is the right fit than a college visit. Summer is a great time to make those journeys, when campuses are less chaotic and the demands of the school year are on hold. Take an Official Tour Most schools offer scheduled tours to prospective students, and this is...
Summer Learning Activities for Kids
Summer may be a break from formal education, but keeping kids excited about learning can be an easy way to keep them active and engaged instead of zoned out on screen time. The National Summer Learning Association estimates that kids can lose up to two months of learning during the summer but involving kids in educational summer activities can prevent them from forgetting skills they learned during the school year. Encourage your kids...
Austin Hotel Restaurants to Remember
Whether you are traveling on business, enjoying a romantic weekend getaway, or simply looking for a new place to overnight, these fantastic Austin hotels offer more than just a comfortable room. In-hotel restaurants have in times past been thought of as simply convenient, but sometimes the best fare in the neighborhood is right where you’re staying. In fact, locals frequent and recommend these fabulous Austin hotel eateries below,...
5 Tips for Summer Road Trips
For many people, summer means setting out on a road trip in search of bucket-list-worthy excitement or a relaxing vacation. Whether you’re going down the road to visit family or across the country to see a national monument, it is important to prepare your vehicle – and its tires – before you pull out of the driveway. These five safety tips can help get your family ready to hit the road this summer: Check Your Tread – A tire’s tread...
5 Ways to Step Up Date Night Without Breaking the Bank
Most relationship experts agree that making time for date night is important, whether it’s the early days of a blossoming romance or decades into a comfortable marriage. Spending that valuable time together doesn’t have to be expensive as long as you take the time to make it special. Plan your next date with these ideas for low-cost experiences with the one you love: Share time outdoors. Except in the most extreme conditions, there’s...
A Deserved Day for Dad
Whether dad wants to spend his day on the patio, in the garage, on the couch or at a ballgame, Father’s Day is the perfect opportunity to celebrate everything that makes him special to you and your family. Since each dad is a little different, it’s sometimes tough finding just the right gift to put a smile on his face. Whether he’s into a grilled meal, a clean deck or a quality shave, these products are ideal for all types of fathers....
Cool Summertime Kitchen Hacks
Summer is a time for relaxing, enjoying the outdoors and spending time with family and friends. Yet for some, the warmer months can be hectic and busy, and often go by too quickly. When the little ones have soccer practice and the adults need some alone time by the pool, there isn’t always time to prepare a home-cooked meal or toil away in the kitchen. Ideal summertime meals, snacks and drinks should be refreshing, light, delicious...
How To Inspire Summer Reading
How to Inspire Summer Reading While summer is the perfect time for kids to take advantage of days spent away from the classroom, remember not to put valuable skills, like reading, on the backburner. In fact, research estimates that 1-2 months of learning loss can occur during the summer months. To help your child maintain his or her reading level and avoid the “summer slide” – which can be counteracted in part by reading 20 minutes a...
DNA Demystified
Genetic testing involves examining your DNA—the chemical database that carries instructions for your body’s functions—and can reveal changes (mutations) in your genes that may, or may not, cause diseases. The chances of you or your children inheriting some genetic mutation depends on a variety of factors including your parents’ genes, your genes, the disease itself, and mathematical odds. Why test? Genetic testing plays a vital role...
Summer Camp Round-Up
It’s time to think about the kids getting active Most adults have fond memories of summer camp. Camp was a time for broadening our horizons, for learning outside the box, making friends, and having good, old-fashioned fun. Those epheme ral days or weeks of camp each summer, promised a lifetime of memories and friendships. And it usually delivered. Now it’s our turn to offer those same irreplaceable adventures to our kids. The benefits...
Time for a Test Drive
Get behind a different wheel this month Here’s a stat that might surprise you. Only one out of every three people who go out to test drive a car know what they want ahead of time, and more than half of all test drivers buy the first car they take for a spin. People are actually more likely to try on two or three pairs of shoes than test drive two or three cars before bringing one home. But the truth is that there is more difference...
Jeans + Scenes
If outdoor expeditions are in the mix, odds are that you’re going to reach for a trusty pair of durable jeans. But we’ve come a long way from the workhorse denim of the past. From road trips to nature walks to a day at the ranch, these punched-up pairs will leave you feeling confident that your look is all buttoned up. Chelsea & Violet Cropped Flare, $88 Aberdeen Thrift Hi-Rise Frayed Hem Denim, $138 Gianni Bini Gia Embroidered...
Tips for Keeping Your Busy, Adventurous Family Safe
Families are seemingly always on the go. From soccer games and school trips to excursions with friends and vacations with the family, people are constantly on the move, exploring new places and experiencing new things. In fact, a study by Sfara Guardian shows that kids today are using public transportation, going on field trips and taking long-distance road trips at much younger ages compared to 30 years ago. As exciting as these...
Spring into Lawn and Garden Care
If cooler weather has you longing for sunny days outdoors, take heart. Once spring rolls around, you can safely begin the annual cleanup to prepare your yard for months of warm-weather enjoyment. Start by evaluating your lawn. Look for bald spots where grass has grown sparsely and needs reseeding, or uneven areas that may need to be filled and leveled. Before you take steps to correct any problems, you’ll need a clean slate....
Brunch Made Easy
Gathering friends and family doesn’t need to be fancy. With its prime positioning between breakfast and lunch, brunch is a more casual and lighter alternative to the typical dinner party. When charged with hosting a mid-day gathering, a little pre-planning can go a long way toward ensuring your brunch get-together is as simple as it is scrumptious. Get creative with decor. When prepping your tablescape, think outside the box....
Appetite For Adventure
From your own hometown to the far reaches of the globe, there are thousands of destinations just waiting to be discovered by adventurous souls. Satisfying your itch to get out and explore may take you across town or across the ocean, but adhering to some common principles can make your travels extra rewarding. Step outside your comfort zone and try new things, be it zip lining or sampling an unfamiliar food. Follow your instincts,...
3 Kitchen and Bath Trends for 2018
When it’s time for a home remodel, specifically of a bathroom or kitchen, many homeowners turn to trendy looks as inspiration. Color, texture and material variance, like using different types of tile, lead the way in this year’s kitchen and bath trends. To help amplify the look and appeal of your space, consider these tips from the experts at the National Association of the Remodeling Industry: Try Different Shades White...
Digging into Earth Day
Picture it. The year was 1970. Elvis Presley visited President Richard Nixon in the White House. Vietnam War protests raged. The Beatles broke up. PBS began broadcasting. And, on April 22, just five days after Apollo 13 splashed down safely, the first Earth Day celebration took place (though the original Earth Day was more of a series of anti-pollution demonstrations than a celebration). Earth Day Trivia That’s Far from Trivial •...
Living Lavishly Outdoor With 2018 Trends
Living Lavishly Outdoors with 2018 Trends As many families prepare to ramp up their time spent outside, it can be helpful to keep the latest trends in mind while planning for outdoor living spaces. According to research from the International Casual Furnishings Association, many people use outdoor rooms for things they can do indoors – from using cellphones for calls and games to working on computers, watching TV, eating, exercising...
Reserve the Rind
Reserve the Rind Watermelon rinds make for more than just attractive containers for serving cold dishes and beverages. The rind can also be used in creative, edible ways and is good for your heart. Watermelon, both the flesh and the rind, is a good source of a compound called citrulline, an amino acid that raises levels of arginine in the blood, which in turn helps maintain blood flow, healthy blood vessels and heart health. Whether...
Spring Home Upgrade Ideas
Spring Home Upgrade Ideas After a long winter cooped up indoors, spring is the perfect time to start re-imagining your home and making upgrades that create a fresh, welcoming vibe. These project ideas – some big, some small – can help breathe new life into your home so you’re ready to enjoy your favorite rooms to the fullest. Air it out Months of closed windows and doors can make any room feel dusty and stale. As soon as temperatures...
Find Out The Truth About Tap Water
Find Out the Truth About Tap Water While the tap water you drink may look clean, it may contain harmful contaminants like lead, pesticides and industrial pollutants. These and others may be picked up on the journey from your water treatment plant through miles of pipes to your home. To help clear up any misconceptions about what’s really in your water, the experts at PUR offer this myth-busting advice: Myth: Living close to a fresh...
5 Ways to Boost Wi-Fi
5 Ways to Boost Home Wi-Fi In today’s connected world, it’s almost unthinkable to function without an internet connection, and for practical purposes most households need wireless connectivity for everyone to fully enjoy their internet-enabled devices, including smartphones, laptops, tablets, televisions, thermostats, security cameras and even refrigerators. However, with the growing number of devices requiring access to your network,...
Texas Bluebonnets Beckon
The sights of springtime draw near Few things represent spring in Texas more than bluebonnets. Blanketing fields and roadsides in sheets of blue, their showy display inspires a deep appreciation for the sheer beauty of nature and the Texas countryside. Although the Texas state flower appears in many areas, especially throughout the Hill Country, ask anyone about the best location to view them and you will likely get different answers....
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