december 2014 - fort bend focus magazine - people • places • happenings

2014Favorites

OFREADERS' CHOICE

$2.95

DECEMBER 2014

OH HOLY Nights!CHRISTMASGIFT GUIDE

58,000 Votes From Readers

2nd Annual

Over

HOLIDAY Spending Tips

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For Houston it’s a first. For you, it’s simply amazing.

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fort bend magazine • December 2014 1

1730 Williams Trace Blvd, Ste. K • Sugar Land, TX 77478 • 281-494-7777

Phot

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dios

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Wishing everyone a very

Merry Christmas anda Happy New Year from

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TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend .com • December 2014 2

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C O V E R S T O R Y

D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 4

2ND ANNUAL FOCUS FAVS READERS’ CHOICE OFFORT BEND’S FAVORITESThis year, we once again invited readers to our website to take an online survey to tell us who their Fort Bend favorites are in four different categories: Food, Spirits, Shopping and Entertainment. See who won this year’s Fort Bend Focus Readers’ Choice Awards!

17

F E AT U R E S

24 10 TIPS TO CONTROLHOLIDAY SPENDINGShop for the holidays without breaking the bank.

42 FORT BEND FOCUS AND absolutely! BRAZOS MAGAZINES HONOR THE GEMS OF FORT BEND Review highlights of this year’s premier event featuring dinner, live entertainment and a “chips for charity” casino benefiting Texana Center.

51 absolutely! KID FRIENDLYFind the best and brightest in private schools and after school activities to meet your child’s needs.

56 2014 SUGAR PLUM MARKET PREVIEW NIGHTPresented by the Fort Bend Junior Service League and Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, this annual holiday shopping extravaganza benefits Fort Bend County Charities.

74 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE Find fabulous gifts from local retailers.

C O L U M N S

22 FOCUS ON FINANCEAnnual Fall Sale Underway

26 HIGH SCHOOL HOT SHOTMeet Kymberli Ann Russo

28 OH HOLY NIGHTS! December is a holy month for many Fort Bend residents celebrating a variety of religions and cultures.

80 LIVING THE SWEET LIFE


CONTRIBUTORS

D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 4 | V O L U M E 1 1 | N U M B E R 2

28

Zeenat Kassam MithaCultural CorrespondentPage 28

26

Joan FrancesContributorPage 26

24

Steve SieboldHow Rich People Think Page 24

Steve KursarAuto EnthusiastPage 66

66

Will HardeeHardee Investment GroupPage 22

22

N E W S W O RT H Y

31 HOLIDAY MUSIC MAGICWITH THE FORT BEND BOYS CHOIRSpecial Guest Is International Recording Artist John Holiday

44 FORT BEND REGIONAL COUNCILON SUBSTANCE ABUSE, INC.Hosts Sixth Annual Helen Cordes Award Dinner

49 MEMORIAL HERMANNSUGAR LAND HOSPITAL AND SPECTRA SPECIALTY Present Fort Bend Cares 10th Annual Road Trip Fundraiser

50 LIVING WITH AUTISM IN TWO WORLDSWith Dr. Temple Grandin

59 19TH ANNUAL RAMSAYGILLMAN CHARITABLEGOLF TOURNAMENTSets New Record Raising $90,000 for Fort Bend Women’s Center

65 MOONLIGHT MASQUERADEIN VENICEPlanning Begins for the Fort Bend Education Foundation’s 22nd Annual Gala

M E D I C A L & B U S I N E S S

58 MEDICAL FOCUS

absolute ly!A U T O R E V I E W

66 2014 BMW M235I COUPE

H O M E

68 HANDCRAFTED HOLIDAY DÉCOR Deck the halls with these spirited craft ideas to transform your home into a colorful holiday haven.

absolute ly!D E L I C I O U S

72 CLASSIC HOLIDAYDESSERTSWith the right recipes and a little planning, make your holiday gathering a sweet success.

I N E V E RY I S S U E

10 PUBLISHER’S POINT OF VIEW

32 SEEN ON THE SCENE

60 OUT & ABOUT IN THEHEART OF THE BEND

77 AMATEUR PHOTO CONTEST

78 COMMUNITY EVENTS

ON THE COVER:The 2nd Annual Focus Favs

Readers’ Choice of Fort Bend’s Favorites

Alisa MurrayAlisa Murray PhotographyPage 80

80

Tim Cashion, DDS Teresa Cody, DDS

Call us now!281-206-4482

17003 SW Freeway, Suite 100, Sugar Land, TX 77479Formerly Cashion & Cody Family Dentistry and Orthodontics

2

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Ask �ese 10 Questions To Make Sure Your Dentist Stacks Up

www.candcdental.com www.candcortho.com

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A $25.00 flat fee foran x-ray & consultation

A $74.00 valueLow cost way

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Holiday Specials

BeautyBecomesYou.comF or years, when someone called the

Kaminski’s during the holiday season, Kassidi and Kolton answered the phone with the following greeting: “Buddy the elf! What’s your favorite color?” Yes, Elf is our all-time favorite holiday movie. We’ve seen it multiple times in multiple venues from Texas to Colorado during the holidays. It’s become one of our holiday favorites.

Speaking of favorites, this issue is all about Focus Favs, our second annual readers’ choice awards. From food to shopping to entertainment, our readers shared with us their favorites in Fort Bend to the tune of over 58,000 votes! So, the next time you are looking for a great place to have dinner or enjoy happy hour, check out what our readers voted as their favs in Fort Bend.

Spending time with family and friends is another favorite of mine this time of year, and at Fort Bend Focus, we had the opportunity to spend Preview Night with one of our favorite organizations: The Fort Bend Junior Service League and their annual Sugar Plum Market. Once again, these ladies hosted a spectacular event that I’m sure raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for our community. Check out our coverage on page 56, and thank you ladies for another amazing year. The Sugar Plum Market is indeed one of our favorites!

Another favorite of ours is our annual GEMS event. This year, we benefitted Texana Center with an amazing evening. We had dinner, showcased three amazing community leaders – Bob, Neil and Jim – played in the chips for charity casino, and had a blast! Check out pictures on page 42, and look for the details in next month’s issue about how much money was raised for the Texana Center.

It really is the most wonderful time of the year. This year, I have more than usual to be thankful for. My family, friends, colleagues and team here at absolutely! focus media are truly amazing individuals, and I am blessed because of them all. From all of us here to you and yours, we wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! We will see you in 2015!

Stay focused!

[email protected]

4655 TECHNIPLEX DR. STE 700STAFFORD, TX 77477

281-690-4242

WWW.FORTBENDFOCUS.COM

Fort Bend FocusTM Magazine is published by absolutely! focus media, 4655 Techniplex Dr., Ste. 700, Stafford, TX 77477. Copy-right © 2014 by absolutely! focus media. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. Fort Bend FocusTM Magazine does not knowingly accept false or mis-leading advertising or editorial, nor do the publishers assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. Fort Bend FocusTM Magazine welcomes editorial submissions from its readers.

Vol. 11 No. 2December 2014

EXCLAMATION POINTS!THE INSIDE SCOOP STRAIGHT FROM THE TOP

Subscription requests are free to all Fort Bend addresses. Annual paid subscription

of $25 required outside the Fort Bend area.

P U B L I S H E RE DI TOR- I N - C H I E FPatti Parish-Kaminski

A S S O C IAT E P U B L I S H E RJessica Kij

M A NAG I N G E D I T O RSarah Bearden

AC C OU N T E X E C U T I V E SStephenie CoxJennifer Elliott

Molly EllisKay Garrett

Juliet HubbellAndrea Rigamonti

Suzanne StilesBonnie Bell Woodrow

A RT DI R E C TORGrace Belleza

G R A P H IC DE SIG N E RGinger Garza

W E B DE SIG N E RJoey Belleza

O F F I C E A D M I N I S T R AT O RAdrienne Boring

I N T E R NErin De Veyra

C O N T R I BU T O R SJoan FrancesWill HardeeSteve Kursar

Zeenat Kassam MithaAlisa MurraySteve Siebold

I N Q U I R I E S281-690-4242

E D I T O R IA L SU B M I S S I O N [email protected]

Publishedby

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief, PATTI PARISH-KAMINSKI

“We elves try to stick tothe four main food groups:

candy, candy canes, candy corns and syrup.” – Buddy

Tim and Patti Kaminski.

Eric Humble, M.D.Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

281•313•055516926 Southwest Freeway

Sugar Land, TX 77479

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ROSENBERGKnoll Oak Lane3/2 - ±2,292 sfstunning recent construction homegame room | media room | covered patio

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SWEETWATER ESTATESBeacon Hill6/7.5 - ±12,585 sfRobert Dame-designed home with gorgeous interiors | backs to golf courseCindy Burns | 281.630.8865

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2014Favorites

OFREADERS' CHOICE

Voting for the 2014 Fort Bend Focus Favs was conducted online at www.FortBendFocus.com from October 8 to November 10, 2014.The results were collected and tabulated using PollDaddy.com. In the event of a tie, both winners are listed.

This year, we once again invited readers to our website to take an online survey to tell us who their Fort Bend Favorites are in four different categories:

Food Spirits Shopping Entertainment

And boy, did they come through! With over 58,000 votes, our readers voiced their opinion on their Focus Favs. Take a look and see who won this year’s

Fort Bend Focus FavsReaders’ Choice Awards!

2nd Annual

The building where the Old Main Street Bakery is located is one of Rosenberg’s oldest buildings built in 1910. Originally, the second Mayor of Rosenberg, R.T. Mulcahy, and his family owned the building, and the mayor’s office was located upstairs. From 1948-1952, it was Simmon’s Food Market, and in 1952, it became White Auto Store. A few businesses – and a few years – later, it was renovated in 2014 and opened as the Old Main Street Bakery in February.

Fort BendFascinating Facts

Our Readers Voted for Their Focus Favs in Fort Bend

Fort Bend Foodies spoke up loud andclear voting for their favorite eateries – yum!

Favorite Bakery:

Old Main Street Bakery808 3rd Street

Rosenberg, TX 77471

Favorite BBQ:

The Swinging Door3818 FM 359 Road

Richmond, TX 77406

Favorite Burger:

Guru Burgers and Crepes2268 Texas Drive


Favorite Mexican Food:

Bob’s Taco Station1901 Avenue H

Rosenberg, TX 77471

Favorite Italian Restaurant:

Carrabba’s Italian Grill2335 Highway 6


Favorite Pizza:

Grimaldi’s Coal Brick-Oven Pizzeria16535 Southwest Freeway


Favorite Steakhouse:

Perry’s Steakhouse & Grill2115 Town Square PlaceSugar Land, TX 77479

Favorite Brunch:

Black Walnut Café16535 Southwest Freeway


FOOD


The first SONIC was established in 1953 as a small root beer stand called Top Hat in Shawnee, Oklahoma. In 1959, after successfully operating a handful of Top Hat locations, Troy Smith and partner Charles Pappe christened the existing locations SONIC, a good match for their slogan, “Service at the Speed of Sound.” Today, there are over 3,500 SONIC’s in 44 states with 14 locations in Fort Bend all featuring half price Happy Hour drinks from 2 to 4 pm.

Our Readers Voted for Their Focus Favs in Fort Bend Our Readers Voted for Their Focus Favs in Fort Bend


Fort Bend’s winning Happy Hour wasn’t your usual Happy Hour – it was a family favorite.

Favorite Martini:

Perry’s Steakhouse & Grill2115 Town Square PlaceSugar Land, TX 77479

Favorite Wine Selection:

Spec’s5 Locations in Fort Bend

Favorite Margarita:

Escalante’s Fine Tex-Mex & Tequila15933 City Walk


Favorite Wine Bar:

Braman Winery3333 FM 359

Richmond, TX 77406

Favorite Pub:

Flying Saucer Draught Emporium15929 City Walk


SPIRITs

ATTENTION READERS:

Are there some categories for your favs that you would like to see in our 2015 Fort Bend Focus Favs Readers’ Choice Awards?

Let us know! E-mail your favorite categories to [email protected]. And remember, this fall, vote for your focus favs at www.fortbendfocus.com!

Favorite Happy Hour:

SONIC14 Locations in Fort Bend


Favorite Sports Recreation:

Revolution Studio2125 Lone Star DriveSugar Land, TX 77479

Favorite Country Club:

Sugar Creek Country Club420 Sugar Creek Blvd.Sugar Land, TX 77478

Favorite Live Entertainment:

Sugar Land Town Square15958 City Walk


Favorite Man Cave:

Flying Saucer Draught Emporium15929 City Walk


Santikos Palladium – AVX opened in Richmond in the spring of 2013 and boasts 22 movie theatres, a 16-lane bowling alley, a cocktail and sports bar, in-theatre dining, an arcade and 100 plus different varieties and combinations of Coca Cola products. Pass the popcorn!


Our Readers Voted for Their Focus Favs in Fort Bend

Entertainment

From biking to bowling, readers gotserious about voting for their favorite

sports recreation with over 54,000 votes!

Favorite Movie Theatre:

Santikos Palladium – AVX7301 Grand ParkwayRichmond, TX 77407

Favorite Kid’s Entertainment:

Main Event Entertainment12626 Fountain Lake Circle

Stafford, TX 77477


The Fort Bend Junior Service League’s Sugar Plum Market has donated more than $1.3 million to local Fort Bend charities over the past 13 years. In 2013, the event raised $223,000 which was distributed to 17 local Fort Bend charities. Approximately 7,000 shoppers attended the 2014 Market that featured 109 vendors.


Our Readers Voted for Their Focus Favs in Fort Bend Our Readers Voted for Their Focus Favs in Fort Bend

SHOPPING

‘Tis the season to shop ‘til you drop!Check out our reader’s favorite shopping spots.

Favorite Jewelry Store:

James Avery16535 Southwest Freeway


Favorite Shoe Store:

DSW2745 Town Center Blvd.Sugar Land, TX 77479

Favorite Grocery Store:

H-E-B6 Locations in Fort Bend

Favorite Holiday Shopping:

Fort Bend Junior Service League’sSugar Plum Market

Held Annually in NovemberStafford Centre

10505 Cash RoadStafford, TX 77477

Favorite Bargain Shopping:

Nordstrom Rack2665 Town Center Blvd. North


Soon, Fort Bend County will have its very own outlet mall. In September of 2014, Paragon Outlet Partners announced plans to build a 400,000-square-foot outlet mall along U.S. 59/Interstate 69 at Reading Road in Rosenberg. The first phase of the project will include enough space for approximately100 stores.


fort bend magazine • December 2014 21All photos are stock images.


T:8.375”

T:10.875

B:875

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LEADING MEDICINE STARTS WITH HOUSTON METHODIST PRIMARY CARE.At Houston Methodist, your family’s well-being is at the center of all we do.

From simple checkups to more complex concerns, our board-certifi ed

primary care physicians provide the compassionate care you need, as

well as access to our leading network of world-class specialists. We

offer four convenient locations in Missouri City and Sugar Land.

For an appointment, schedule online at

houstonmethodist.org/online-scheduling or call:

• Houston Methodist Primary Care Group ....... 713.394.6724• Methodist Family Medicine Group ................ 281.275.0800

• Online scheduling • Same-day access

Many of our doctors offer:

Presented by the Hardee Investment Group and RBC Wealth Management

Annual Fall Sale Underway

FOCU$ on FINANCE

T he annual autumn sale has begun in earnest. Typi-cally, the sale is set up by the three worst months of the year – August through October. Some of the

largest declines in the stock market have started in August and ended in October. For an investor, these times can be very unsettling as statement values go down. Fear can cause investors to make poor decisions. Bargains (low prices) gen-erally occur when fear drives prices down.

Fortunately, the next six months are some of the better for stock appreciation. What’s our game plan? First, don’t let declining statement values color your judgement. Use this period to buy the themes: 1) Commodity users – not commod-ity producers, 2) growth over value and 3) the rebirth of in-dustrial America.

Secondly, begin minimizing your tax bill by taking losses to offset gains. We’ve had several companies bought out this year and will have taxable gains. We start this process begin-ning mid-November by harvesting losses, which leads to our third point.

Third, the last bargain period of the year occurs from mid-December through year-end. Some of our better buys have occurred at this time of the year and is why I’ve never taken this period off. This is when many investors do their tax loss selling. As stated above, we do ours around Thanksgiving.

The year-end tax selling depresses stock prices that are al-ready down as investors sell losers. This tax-induced selling ends December 31st. Once the selling pressure abates, these same stocks can have some very good bounces in January.

The fall can be an unsettling time of year. Learn to take advantage of it for your benefit. “Buying low and selling high” is not as easy as it sounds. For four decades, we’ve been stu-dents of market tendencies. We’ll use these techniques to benefit our clients.

We know you have a choice when selecting your financial advisor, but does your financial advisor select tactics and strategies that are in your best interest? Find out what that feels like with the Hardee Investment Group. We look for-ward to serving you and your family, always keeping in mind to do what’s in the client’s best interest.

This article provided by H. H. “Will” Hardee, AWM of the Hardee Investment Group and a Financial Advisor and Senior Vice President at RBC Wealth Man-agement in Houston, and was prepared by or in cooperation with RBC Wealth Management. The information included in this article is not intended to be used as the primary basis for making investment decisions nor should it be construed as a recommendation to buy or sell any specific security. RBC Wealth Manage-ment does not endorse this organization or publication. Consult your investment professional for additional information and guidance. RBC Wealth Manage-ment does not provide tax or legal ad-vice. RBC Wealth Management, a divi-sion of RBC Capital Markets Corpora-tion, Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC.

There’s Wealth in Our Approach.™

© 2014 RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets, LLC, Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC.

TrusT and ConfidenCe

If you are tired of second guessing your investment decisions, we can help. Since 1977, we have been providing families and businesses financial guidance that is always In The Client’s Best Interest.

Hardee Investment Group

(713) 853-0879 | (800) 838-0757www.hardeeinvestmentgroup.com

14-HC-439_7.25x3.125 Trust c.indd 1 9/10/14 12:06 PM

T:8.375”T:10.875

B:875B:11.375

LEADING MEDICINE STARTS WITH HOUSTON METHODIST PRIMARY CARE.At Houston Methodist, your family’s well-being is at the center of all we do.

From simple checkups to more complex concerns, our board-certifi ed

primary care physicians provide the compassionate care you need, as

well as access to our leading network of world-class specialists. We

offer four convenient locations in Missouri City and Sugar Land.

For an appointment, schedule online at

houstonmethodist.org/online-scheduling or call:

• Houston Methodist Primary Care Group ....... 713.394.6724• Methodist Family Medicine Group ................ 281.275.0800

• Online scheduling • Same-day access

Many of our doctors offer:


Steve Siebold, author of How Rich People Think, and a self-made multi-millionaire who has interviewed more than 1,200 of the world’s wealthiest people, offers this advice on not breaking the bank this year:

1 Don’t fall for marketing campaigns that make you feel as if you’re getting a great deal when you’re really not.

(i.e. Buy it today; pay for it tomorrow.)

2 Allocate a certain amount of money for each person you plan on buying gifts for, and don’t overspend by even a

dollar.

3 Don’t even think of using a credit card unless you are 100% sure you can comfortably pay it off at the end of

the month.

4 Don’t get caught up in the moment. If your shopping cart is overflowing, step back, regroup and make sure you

can really afford everything you plan to purchase.

5 Kids learn by example. Even parents who have failed to reach their financial dreams can still teach their kids

important lessons about money during the holiday season.

6 There’s no shame in telling people that this year will be a lean holiday season when it comes to exchanging gifts.

7 Ask yourself if you would rather have the short-term

satisfaction of expensive mate-rial possessions, or the long-term results of financial free-dom and abundance.

8 There are good deals to be had during the holiday

shopping season, but be men-tally tough to know when enough is enough.

9 When it comes to spending this holiday season, leave your emotions on the shelf, and let reason be your guide.

10 Limit charitable giving. Helping others is a nice ges-ture and certainly in the spirit of the holidays, but

until you’re financially comfortable yourself, you can’t give what you don’t have. A little leftover change is one thing, but those who try and support every cause known to man but can’t afford to are doing more harm than good.

For more information on Steve Siebold and his book, visit www.howrichpeoplethinkbook.com.

N ovember’s Black Friday celebrat-

ed the official kickoff of the holi-

day shopping season. Last year,

Americans spent a whopping $57 billion dur-

ing Thanksgiving weekend shopping. And

for many of them, it led to more debt, higher

monthly credit card payments and financial

ruin.

Tips toControl10

By Steve Siebold

H liday Spending

IT TAKES A TEXAN

here are lots of unexplored tastes in the world of wine. Braman Wines

will navigate you to the best, paired to occasion as much as to meal.

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Meet Kymberli Ann Russo

By Joan Frances

G eorge Bush High School con-tinues to graduate seniors of high caliber and excellent

credentials. With a diversified cur-riculum, students choose academic and extracurricular activities that enhance their high school experience. Kymberli Russo is a talented senior with an impressive high school career.

Kymberli is a musical artist who has been a part of the concert and marching band all four years as a clarinet player. As a freshman, Kym-berli advanced to 4A Area. This past year, she advanced to State Solo En-semble and scored an excellent rat-ing in Division II. She was awarded marcher of the year as a freshman, sophomore and junior. She was the clarinet squad leader as a sophomore and section leader as a junior. In ad-dition, Kymberli loves to run. She joined the cross country team as a sophomore and is also a soccer play-er. She was the junior varsity soccer captain and awarded best defender.

Kymberli

HOT SHOTHigh School

selves that we can be, especially with the ability to have a golden mindset in life,” Kymberli explained. “He has taught us to strive for excellence in every aspect of our life and to never be complacent with just being mediocre. Not only has Coach Rideout motivated me in cross country through these three years, but he has taught me to be humble, selfless and a leader to all who are around me.”

As a junior and senior, Kymberli was selected to join an elite group in the Fort Bend District to take part in the 101 Leadership program. These 33 students were instructed on how to be effective leaders and motivators. Kymberli is very dynamic in her com-munity as well. In 2013, she took an active role in Toys for Tots by provid-ing Christmas gifts and necessities for needy families, raising funds, purchas-ing gifts and transporting furniture. Kymberli also volunteered at the Har-ris County Psychiatric Center deliver-ing property to patients, as well as fil-ing and shredding papers. She helped in the Beautification Project at George

Bush High School and Target Hunger assisting in packing and distributing food. At Second Mile Mission, she or-ganized donated clothes and packed food to hand out to those in need.

This year, Kymberli attended the Walk to End Alzheimer’s mo-tivating and cheering on the walk-ers and helping set up and pack up tents, tables and chairs. Kymberli feels an important value to live by is to have a positive attitude. “Hav-ing a positive mindset before start-ing any task will help accomplish it with a sense of true accomplishment and mutual respect from my peers.”

Kymberli is a member of the National Honor Society, National English Honor Society and Medical Professions Association. Out of 435 seniors, she ranks 30 and received an Academic Excellence award for 2013-2014. Kymberli aspires to study nursing after graduation. She is con-sidering attending college at Texas Women’s University or the Univer-sity of Houston. Congratulations on your amazing journey, and good luck on your future endeavors!

Kymberli’s favorite subject is Eng-lish, and she loves to read. Litera-ture, poetry and fictional novels with adventure engage her for hours. Her favorite teacher is her cross country coach, Shannon Rideout. “He is my favorite teacher because he has in-spired me and everyone he has met to be able to be the best version of our-

“Having a positive mindset before startingany task will help accomplish it with a sense of true

accomplishment and mutual respect from my peers.” – Kymberli Ann Russo


C E L E B R A T E C H R I S T M A S A T

HOUSTON’S FIRST!

Pastor Gregg’s messages and local worship leaders available each Sunday at our other campuses

Cypress @ 11a | Downtown @ 11a | Sienna @ 9:30a & 11a

SUNDAYS AT THE LOOP CAMPUSIDENTICAL WORSHIP SERVICES EACH SUNDAY AT 9:15a, 11a & 5p

DEC 7“HEAVEN”

by Pastor Gregg Matte

Worship led by

Natalie GrantFive-time GMA Dove Award winner for

Female Vocalist of the Year

DEC 14“THE EARTH”by Pastor Gregg Matte

DEC 21“THE HEART”by Pastor Gregg Matte

Worship led by

The Choir & Orchestra at Houston’s First Baptist Church

Worship led by

Preschool, Children’s, Student, and Adult Choirs

Downtown Campus (1010 Lamar @ Fannin – Tunnel Level)Sienna Campus (4309 Sienna Pkwy)

Our musical presentation of the Spirit, the Songs, and the Story of Christmas

returns next year on December 10–13, 2015!

Christmas EveCANDLELIGHT SERVICES

The Loop Campus4p & 6p

Cypress Campusat historic Tin Hall4p & 6p

Sienna Campus4p & 6p

The Loop Campus (7401 Katy Freeway)Cypress Campus (10300 Warner Smith Blvd)

Pastor Gregg Matte


This gracious spirit, charitable of-ferings and the beauty that adorns the streets and shops make it my favorite time of the year. Many of my friends, who are of Christian and Jewish faiths, are also celebrating a special time, and I pay tribute to their celebrations as they pay tribute to mine.

When one lives in a county such as ours with significant ethnic diversity, high standards of education, a belief in law and order and a strong sense of faith and culture, it is a blessing, and it builds awareness. Waking up every morning in Fort Bend County exposes us to an environment that beckons us to get involved with a mixture of cultures and faiths. Every month, a different faith-based organization arranges a cul-tural event, inviting the public to join. By definition, culture is customs from our homeland passed down from gener-ation to generation. Religion is the belief and worship of a superhuman control-ling power. As neighbors and friends, when we do things for the greater good of the people, we are accepting of each other, understanding all cultures and religions at a conscious level.

Monotheistic ReligionsThe majority of residents in our com-

munity are part of monotheistic religions. Monotheism is characteristic of Christi-anity, Islam and Judaism, all of which view God as the creator of the world and mankind and the source of the highest good. The monotheism that character-izes Judaism began with embracing Yah-weh, who created man in his image, and is the single entity of worship. Islam is clear in acknowledging one eternal, un-equaled God, while Christianity accepts that a single God is reflected in the three expressions of the Holy Trinity – the Fa-ther, the Son (Jesus Christ) and the Holy Spirit.

People of monotheistic faiths have various ways to reference God, such as Divine, Allah, Deity – one who is the Supreme Being. Monotheistic faiths share central values of family and char-ity. Throughout history, these religions have spread from their birthplace, cross-ing the boundaries of race and ethnicity, with followers in nearly every country in the world. All three of the monotheistic faiths began in what is known today as the Middle East.

D ecember is a holy month for many in the Fort Bend community due to important religious and cultural celebrations. Many see it as the most peaceful, giving

and jovial time of the year because the spirit of goodness is at an all-time peak.

JudaismJudaism, the oldest of the monotheis-

tic religions, is over 3,500 years old. Abra-ham is considered the patriarch of the Jewish faith. The Torah is the holy book of the faith. Moses is considered their greatest prophet, as he led the exodus of the Israelites out of Egypt and across the Red Sea, after which they based them-selves at Mount Sinai, where Moses re-ceived the Ten Commandments. Those who are part of the Jewish faith celebrate Hannukah this year from December 16th through 24th.

IslamIslam is almost 1,300 years old, and it

is also an Abrahamic religion. The mean-ing of Islam is derived from the Arabic root “Salema,” which means peace, pu-rity, submission and obedience. Muslims, who are followers of Islam, believe that it is the same faith taught by others who they revere as great prophets: Abraham, David, Jesus, Moses and Noah. Mus-lims believe the Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh)* role was to formalize and clarify faith. In Islam, the Quran is the holy book of the faith, and the Prophet Mu-hammad (pbuh), due to his teachings and normative examples, is seen as the last and greatest prophet.

ChristianityChristianity is approximately 2,000

years old. Jesus Christ is seen as the Lord and Savior to Christians. The

The Dome of The Rock in Jerusalem is a sacred place considered one of the oldest works of Islamic architecture. The site bears significance for Muslims, Christians and Jews.

Fort Bend resident Ian Scharfman in front of the Western Wall in Jerusalem, one of the holy sites in Judaism.

Oh Holy Nights!By Zeenat Kassam Mitha


TO SHARE YOUR IDEASfor upcoming cultural stories and events, contact Cultural Correspondent Zeenat Kassam Mitha at [email protected]

my humble reasoning. When God created diversity in human beings and species of all kinds, offered a means for us to stay alive through food, water and oxygen, and built a solar system that leads be-yond earth, I believe He was providing the ability to use one of our biggest assets – knowledge – to understand Him.

To me, God created prophets to help people understand His existence; He also wanted us to understand our own ex-istence and to be tolerant of each other. He wanted to guide us on how we should live, and due to His good virtues within us, to be accepting of others who are not like us. He wanted us to respect, obey and listen to the prophets He sent to us. He also wanted us to know He was the beginning and the end. He wanted us to know He was our creator; we come from Him, and we return to Him. Therefore, our ultimate loyalty is to God, Allah or however we choose to call a deity, a su-preme power.

Christian acceptance of the faith is that Jesus suffered, died, was buried, and he was resurrected from the dead in order to grant eternal life to those who believe in him and trust in him for the remission of their sins. Christ in the New Testament is known as the “Son of God.” Christ is described in the Old Testament as “Be-longing to God.” The Bible is the holy book of the faith. Those who are part of the Christian faith celebrate Christmas on December 25th.

in developing countries, and the organi-zation is currently in 35 countries with over 80,000 staff. These organizations are non-denominational, conducting their programs without regard to faith, origin or gender. They work to improve the wel-fare and prospects of people in the devel-oping world. The majority helped are not from my faith or culture. The humanitar-ian efforts of H.H. the Aga Khan, through his organizations, are in my mind, in sync with the Divine’s virtues. I joyfully celebrate H.H. the Aga Khan’s birthday on December 13th, and my Christian and Jewish friends honor my celebrations as I honor theirs.

Shia Imami Ismaili Muslim

Sometimes, to understand other reli-gions, you have to understand your own. To explain myself, I believe in God as the supreme being and the Lord of the Day of Judgment. I am a follower of the Shia Imami Ismaili Muslim faith, and my spiritual leader is His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV. He is a direct de-scendant of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and the 49th hereditary Imam (spiritual leader) of the Ismailies. Much of my religion is based on helping human-ity, giving service, doing acts of charity and being tolerant. I was raised with this thinking, as was my husband, and we raise our children in the same way. We also believe the extension of service and giving go far beyond one’s faith, and with the Divine’s virtue in mind.

In our faith, The Aga Khan Founda-tion and Aga Khan Development Net-work was set up by our spiritual leader over 30 years ago to assist human beings

Fort Bend resident Anita Samuel at The Garden Tomb.

Iqbal (Ike) and Zeenat Mitha at the Ismaili Jamat Khana and Center in Sugar Land.

The ProphetsI thought about what God’s intention

was when he sent approximately 124,000 prophets on earth at different times to speak His word. What was Allah trying to help us understand when he revealed messages to the prophets for the ben-efit of the people? What was the Divine trying to help us appreciate when he brought race, ethnicity and color into our neighborhoods and in our lives through family and friends?

I am no theologian, so this is simply

The actual place where Jesus Christ was born in Bethlehem.

Throughout history, there are people from various faiths doing the Divine’s work. They are excellent examples of what the prophets were teaching in the past. Where there is a meeting of the minds, an acceptance from like-minded people and an appreciation of all faiths and cultures, you are among friends. That is the beauty of living in Fort Bend County, where there is the opportunity to see past the differences! Salgirah Mubarak (Happy Birthday Blessings), Merry Christmas and Happy Hannukah! May blessings be bountiful for you this holy season!

*Pbuh means peace be upon him. In Islam, when saying the Prophet’s name, it is customary to add this praise.

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DECEMBER HOLIDAY HOURS: Mon - Sat: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm

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Experience some holiday music magic with the Fort Bend Boys Choir on Saturday, December 6th with family and friends. Three performing choirs – Train-ing, Town and Tour – will be showcased at Sugar Land Baptist Church, located at 16755 Southwest Freeway in Sugar Land, at 7 pm. Special guests include Music Magic, the organization’s music class for six and seven-year-olds. Con-cert goers will be treated to an extra special performance by Countertenor John Holiday, an international recording artist and 1999 Outstanding Choirboy of the Year. He will sing a duet with the Fort Bend Boys Choir’s Founder and Artistic Director William R. Adams and sing with the Tour Choir.

Tickets are available by calling the choir office, from any choir member or at the door. Adult admission is $15 and children 12 and under are $5. All pro-ceeds from the Christmas Musicale are used for program support, operational expenses and scholarships. Learn more about the Fort Bend Boys Choir and how they make a difference in the lives of boys by visiting www.fbbctx.org or call-ing 281-240-3800.

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All Aboard! 2014 Gala Benefiting the Rosenberg Railroad Museum

Sandy Campos, Robbie Reed & Ratha LiladrieDarren & Pamela McCarthy

Anne Davis & Barbara Bleil Carole & Robert C. Brown, III Debbie & Russell Straw

Lisa & Bill Rickert

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Couture for the Cause Benefiting the American Cancer Society

Harold Strickland & Emily Rutland Linda & Gregory Compean Tim & Patti Kaminski

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The 11th Annual Gulf Coast International Dragon Boat Regatta

Beth Arlington & Yang Si Rakhee Sharma, Manny Gonzales & Janice Succi Terri Wang & Isis Smalls

Rebecca Men & Mario Garcia Emy Aninzo-Wong & Laura Richard Ruby & Samantha Rangel Mike Fatter & Dax Navarro

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Mughal Darbar, A Royal Evening Benefiting Developments in Literacy Houston

Asif & Sahrmeen Gangat Jane & Robert Kavanagh, Jr. Omar Chawdhary, Fahd Siddiqi & Ayesha Mahmood Sandeep & Jennifer Aiyer

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The Heart of Fort Bend Benefiting AccessHealth

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Arlene R. Rolsen, CRS“Selling Fort Bend’s Finest Homes Since 1985”

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May we continue to Pray for Peace on

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Fort Bend Regional Council on Sub-stance Abuse, Inc. presents the Sixth Annual Helen Cordes Award Dinner fea-turing intervention specialists Debbie and Brandon Knauss on February 26th, 2015 at Safari Texas Ranch. Brandon and Debbie have been featured on the Dr. Phil Show, The Doctors and the TLC primetime special, Cracking Addiction!

In America, nearly every family is di-rectly or indirectly affected by the dis-ease of addiction and/or mental illness. Brandon and Debbie have a distinctive approach to the intervention process. This is precisely why Dr. Phil and The Doctors television programs selected them to illustrate what an important and valuable tool intervention is in combat-ing addiction. Debbie and Brandon con-duct interventions as a mother and son team. Brandon is a former addict, and his mother lived through years of his disease. Debbie is a licensed Registered Nurse (RN) and Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC). Their unique bond al-lows them to offer what few other inter-vention specialists can: intimate, direct knowledge of what the family is experi-encing.

The award dinner is held in honor of an individual who has given their time, experience and expertise to Fort Bend Regional Council. The Honoree for 2015 is Judge Susan Lowery, who has been an outspoken advocate on substance abuse issues.

The Helen Cordes Award was founded to honor her generous community spirit. She served on the Fort Bend Regional Council’s Board of Directors from 1991 to 1997 and was President from 1992 to 1995. For more event information, con-tact Mandi Bronsell at 281-207-2409 or [email protected].

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NEWSWORTHY

Discounted pre-sale tickets to the Child Advocates of Fort Bend 23rd An-nual CASA Christmas Home Tour are now available at www.cafb.org and at select Fort Bend County Kroger and Randalls stores. Tickets are $20 pre-sale and $25 from December 1st through 14th. There is no better way to get into the holiday spirit than attending the Tour, which has become a Fort Bend holiday tradition.

The 2014 Tour will feature five dis-tinctive homes in Waters of Avalon, Riverstone and Sienna Plantation beau-tifully decorated for the holidays with the help of professional decorators and de-signers. Tour guests will be treated to a rare glimpse of these lovely homes and will enjoy festive entertainment, beauti-ful holiday decorations, tasty homemade cookies and refreshments. The event runs Friday, December 12th and Satur-day, December 13th from 10 am until 4 pm with a special candlelight tour on Fri-

HolidayHome Tour Tickets

on Sale Now

Child Advocates of Fort Bend Board Members, ho-meowners, committee and sponsors are gearing up for the 2014 CASA Christmas Home Tour: Greg Haralson, Mark Magee, Brigit Engleman, Denny Adelung, Jim McClellan, Cynthia Barratt, Pat Somers and Vickie Looney.


Women’s Centerat Sugar Land

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proudly welcomes Dr. Azeema Moosaday night from 6 pm to 9 pm. One ticket provides admission to all five homes and can be used at any time during the tour. The map to the homes is on the back of the ticket.

“We try to do something new every year, and we are really excited to an-nounce this year’s wreath raffle as we think it will be a fantastic addition to the Tour,” stated Lisa Moore, Events Spe-cialist for Child Advocates of Fort Bend (CAFB). Each talented Christmas deco-rator has generously created a beauti-ful wreath, which will be placed in the home that they decorated. Guests can purchase raffle tickets at the homes for a chance to win the wreaths.

The Tour Underwriter is Fred and Mabel R. Parks Foundation. National Oilwell Varco has joined as an Archan-gel presenting sponsor. Sponsorship op-portunities from $100 to $10,000 are still available. All $350+ level sponsors are invited to the special home tour Preview Party the weekend before the tour. The Preview Party will be held in one of the homes on the tour and will be catered by Sweetwater Country Club and Japa-neiro’s Sushi Bistro & Latin Grill.

The Christmas Home Tour is one of Child Advocates of Fort Bend’s largest fundraisers. There is no easier way to help abused and neglected children than by purchasing a home tour ticket. Tick-ets make great gifts for family, friends and co-workers. For more information on the Tour, sponsorships or to purchase a ticket, visit www.cafb.org or contact Lisa Moore at [email protected] or 281-344-5108.

Submit newsworthy [email protected]

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NEWSWORTHY

Fort Bend Cares proudly announces Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospi-tal and Spectra Specialty as presenting sponsors for its February 7, 2015 annual Road Trip fundraiser. Joining them as dia-mond sponsors for the event are Grant Thornton LLP, The PUB at the Fountains and Fairmount Santrol.

This year, Fluor will be transformed into the French Countryside where guests will enjoy a variety of food items from local restaurants, music, casino games, a wine pull, silent and live auctions and some French inspired entertainment.

Sponsorships are available from $1,000 to $15,000. Individual tickets are $75, and new this year, young profession-als aged 35 and under can purchase a ticket for $50. For more information, call 832-819-2005, e-mail [email protected] or visit www.fortbendcares.org.

Fort Bend Cares, a charitable founda-tion, has raised over $1.2 million dollars over the last 10 years to support non-pro-fit organizations that serve disadvantaged children and youth in Fort Bend County.

Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital

and Spectra Specialty Present

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Autism Spectrum Disorders bring a mix of emotions, behaviors, abilities, dis-abilities, challenges and triumphs. It en-compasses many parts of a spectrum from one end to another that can be puz-zling, mysterious and even eye opening. In spite of this, life exists and the unique abilities from each individual with autism can be nurtured to provide endless pos-sibilities that can be the difference in the lives of others.

Hope For Three and presenting spon-sor Fred and Mabel R. Parks Foundation is honored to present Dr. Temple Grandin on February 6th, 2015 at Sugar Creek Baptist Church. The interactive speaking engagement will give guests a startling, no-nonsense insight of a person living with autism, as well as share ideas on how others can overcome obstacles and improve their quality of life.

Dr. Temple Grandin is a renowned inventor, author and advocate who is considered the most accomplished and well-known adult living with autism in the world. She is also the leading expert on humane management strategies within the cattle industry.

Dr. Grandin’s speaking engagement is for all who are interested, whether you have autism, caring for someone with au-tism or do not know anyone with autism. Organizers believe each and every per-son will be inspired to be the difference.

Tickets are $15 each. Guests can purchase tickets at www.hopeforthree.org/temple-grandin. For information on volunteer and sponsorship opportuni-ties and group sales, contact Christina at [email protected] or 800-317-0787.

Living with Autismin Two Worlds withDr. Temple Grandin

Dr. Temple Grandin.

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F E AT U R I N G

GingerbreadKids’ Academy

Fusion Academy

Southminster School

Sugar Land Gymnastics& Sienna Gymnastics

InternationalPreparatory School


PARENTS’ GUIDE TO

absolutely

Pr ivate Schools & Af ter School Act iv i t ies

Kid Friendly


www.gbkidsacademy.comE-mail: [email protected]

Hours: 6:30 am - 6:30 pmMonday thru Friday

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Conveniently Located Near:BonbrookBriarwood CrossingBridlewood EstatesGreatwoodRiver Park WestRiver’s RunSummer LakesThe Oaks of RosenbergThe ReserveWalnut Creek

• Infants• Toddlers• 3 and 4 year-old Pre-K Programs• K-5th After School Programs for pick-up from Williams and Thomas Elementary• Summer and Christmas Camps

FM 2977 / MENNONITE RD.

BENTON RD.

READING RD.

FM 762

814 FM 2977 • Richmond, TX 77469281-239-2110

BrazosTown Center HWY 59

Free Backpacks to the First 30 Familieswho Enroll by January 1st, 2015

Where Children Learn and Grow

ProvidingAffordable

Quality Educational

Programs for Over30 Years

RIVERPARKWEST

absolutely! Kid Friendly

The holidays are a time to celebrate families and turn our thoughts to the new year. This year, the Gingerbread Family of learning centers opened its newest location in Richmond, Texas. For over 33 years, The Gingerbread House Learning Center and the new Gingerbread Kids’ Academy have created an environment where children can learn and grow. The programs are designed for children ages 8 weeks to 12 years.

Research has shown that in order for a child to be suc-cessful in school and in life, they must begin with a strong foundation in learning. Gingerbread has designed a cur-riculum that includes an emphasis on reading, writing, sci-ence, math, discovery and exploration, as well as social skills development. The infant and toddler programs focus on the development of both gross and fine motor skills along with basic language development. The 3 to 5 year-old Pre-School and Pre-K programs focus on academics, peer relationships and preparation for entry into Kinder-garten and elementary school.

The Gingerbread After-School programs, located on-site at Frost, Hutchison and Hubenak Elementary, as well as onsite at the Gingerbread Kids’ Academy, offer home-work assistance, arts, crafts, games and sports.

A new year means new beginnings. The Gingerbread Family invites you to come and visit before, during or af-ter the holidays. Both locations are now accepting enroll-ments for the 2015 school year. Contact Tim Kaminski at 281-239-2110 or e-mail [email protected] for more information.

Gingerbread:Quality Education

in Fort Bend County

Fusion Academy is an alternative, college-prep private school for grades six through 12 that offers class sizes as small as they come: one student, one teacher. Students may attend Fusion Academy full time or enroll in their after-school and summer programs as an educational supple-ment.

Fusion Academy


absolutely! Kid Friendly Advertorial

Personalization and customization are key elements of Fusion Academy’s programs. The curriculum meets state standards, but the classes are self-paced and taught in a way that considers each student’s individual interests, strengths and learning style. Fusion Academy also offers flexible scheduling and allows students to begin a class at any time during the year. What’s more, Fusion Academy’s students do not take their homework home with them, but they complete it under teacher supervision in the Home-work Café® before they leave for the day.

Beyond academic support, Fusion Academy partners with outside therapeutic professionals and programs to support students’ emotional health and create a balance between learning and life. Each campus is also equipped with a state-of-the-art recording studio and a full mixed-media art studio to provide students with opportunities for creative expression.

For those looking for additional enrichment classes, Fu-sion offers the following subjects for both private lessons and courses for credit, taught from the beginner to the ad-vanced/performance level: yoga, foreign languages, pia-no, recording arts, voice, music theory and composition, drums and more. Each campus has a limited enrollment, and prime schedules fill up quickly. For more information, visit www.FusionAcademy.com.


Southminster School

4200 Cartwright Road • Missouri City, Texas 77459281-261-8872 • www.southminsterschool.org

More than a school…it’s a family! Serving children ages 18 months - 6th grade.

Prospective Parent Open House • January 14th, 10-11 a.m.

absolutely! Kid Friendly

Southminster School

There is no doubt that parents are tightening their belts and trying to find ways to cut costs and save money. Many people live in areas with well-resourced and/or new public schools, making it very tempting to choose public over private. But what are the real differences?

The class size in many public schools can be as large as 25 to 30 students. Southminster School’s maximum class size is 14. While many public schools do a good job of preparing students for the next step, Southminster School does an excellent job. The curriculum at Southminster School is advanced, rigorous and designed to challenge and grow students into successful, independent thinkers. They never “teach to a test” but rather design a curriculum around the individual child.

Southminster School’s students are highly motivated and regard academic achievement as desirable. Students are expected to live by the Mariner Honor Code, which includes being respectful, noble, accountable and more. Those val-ues are instilled and expected daily. Parents are highly involved and are welcomed and encouraged to be part of their child’s educational experience.

At Southminster School, you are not just a client; you are family. Schedule a tour today to see what makes them different, or visit www.southminsterschool.org to watch a short video created by parents. Southminster School’s Prospective Parent Open House is January 14th from 10 to 11 am. They hope to see you there!

Southminster School is located at 4200 Cartwright Road in Missouri City. For more information, e-mail [email protected] or call 281-261-8872.

You’ll see kids flipping, tumbling, birthday partying, cheerleading and karate chopping with exceptional skill. It’s more fun than the circus coming to town, and your kids will learn many new skills. For the last 35 years, Robert Gif-ford, founder of Safety America Karate, has provided Fort Bend County with the highest level of excellence in martial arts training.

Now, Gifford’s sights are set on creat-ing the best gymnastics centers as well. “It’s not only about kids learning exper-tise in martial arts and gymnastics, but it’s important that they gain strength, confidence, good health and have a positive experience while learning their skills,” Gifford explained.

Gifford’s multi-activity centers have something for kids of all ages starting with Mom & Me programs for toddlers ages 18 months to 2 ½ years. Then, the tiny tots get into the action at the ages of 2 ½ to 3 ½. Super tots begin at ages 3 ½ to 4 years. And of course, there are plenty of classes for kids 5 and up. At this one-stop shop, Joey can be doing karate while Ashley is doing gymnastics or tumbling. While visiting, inquire about their zip-line birthday parties or summer camps.

“We’ve always believed that a top-quality staff, a targeted curriculum and the right mix of discipline and fun is a recipe for success! Come see what we have to offer.” Gifford’s motto is, “Do your best. We ask no more, we expect no less.”

For more information, contact Sugar Land Gymnastics at 281-240-0999 or visit www.SugarLandGymnastics.com.

See ad on page 53.

A One-StopShop for

Gymnastics & Karate


absolutely! Kid Friendly Advertorial

InternationalPreparatory School:

Excellence, Diversity, Communicationand Enrichment

Parents have several choices when it comes to their children. Those who visit the International Preparatory School are looking for a fresh philosophy and a re-newed energy in teaching. Smaller class sizes rank as the number one concern. Why? This provides individual attention for students who require more support in some areas while addressing the needs of the gifted child. This all translates into a school where both the teachers and administration set common expec-tations in an open, interactive, under-standing and energizing manner.

Parents want a safe environment that maintains a high standard of discipline and respect. Emphasis on a well-rounded education makes participation in extracur-ricular activities an integral part of the ev-eryday curriculum. Studies demonstrate that healthy competition, be it through math or chess clubs, lead to a higher mo-tivation in learning.

Going to school should be an adven-ture. That adventure begins now at age three with a creative learning environ-ment, which continues through elemen-tary and middle school. The curriculum aspires balanced academics while de-veloping a strong social, physical and moral aptitude.

The International Preparatory School is the choice many parents make for their children as it provides an environment that fosters the gifted and accelerated student as well as the under-confident. If you have great expectations for your child, come by and experience the vibrant atmosphere at the International Preparatory School for yourself.

Join the International Preparatory School staff for their 2015-2016 Open House on January 22nd from 6:30 to 8 pm at 1717 Dulles Avenue in Missouri City. For more information, call 281-208-1403 or visit www.ipspanthers.com.

Integrity, Honesty, and Service to Others

1717 DULLES AVE. • MISSOURI CITY • TX 77459 • FAX 281-208-1426

INTERNATIONALPREPARATORY SCHOOL

For More InformationCall: 281-208-1403

www.ipspanthers.com

AvailableAfter School Programs:

Homework Assistance • Art • VoiceGuitar • Piano • Chess Club

Private School Interscholastic Association Academic Competitions

After School Program available until 6:30 pm.

Pre-K3 – 8th Grade OPEN HOUSEJanuary 22nd

6:30-8 pm

Private Schools and After School Activities

Coming in our January IssueSpecial Advertising Section

absolutely! Kid Friendlyabsolutely! Kid Friendly

Call 281-690-4242 to Advertise.


Fort Bend Junior Service League &Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital

Preview NightThursday, November 6th

Stafford Center

Phot

os b

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ary

Favr

e.


MEDICALFOCUS

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Welcomes Dr. Mark Vann

Houston Meth-odist Orthopedics & Sports Medi-cine is proud to welcome Dr. Mark Vann to their team. Dr. Vann is board certified in ortho-pedic surgery, with a special emphasis

on treating injuries and disorders of the foot and ankle. He comes to Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital from a private practice serving the southwest Houston community since 2010.

“We are thrilled to have a physician

Dr. Mark Vann

with Dr. Vann’s background and experi-ence joining the staff of Houston Meth-odist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine,” said Dr. Ray Valdez, orthopedic surgeon specializing in foot and ankle surgery. “His approach to orthopedics and pa-tient care fit perfectly with our strong and growing team of physicians.”

Dr. Vann is a graduate of Wayne State University School of Medicine in Detroit, Michigan. He completed his residency at Howard University Hospital in Washing-ton, D.C., where he served as orthope-dic surgery administrative chief resident. He was named the hospital’s outstand-ing resident for 2006-2007, as well as

orthopedic resident of the year for the Veterans Affairs Medical Center. From 2004 to 2006, Dr. Vann served as team physician for District of Columbia Pub-lic Schools. Following his residency, Dr. Vann completed a fellowship at Michi-gan International Foot and Ankle Center in Pontiac, Michigan.

Dr. Vann is available to see patients at Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine. To schedule an ap-pointment with Dr. Vann or another physician at Houston Methodist Ortho-pedics & Sports Medicine, go online to houstonmethodist.org/orthopedics or call 281-690-4678.

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is pleased to announce it has achieved Pathway to Excellence® desig-nation by the American Nurses Creden-tialing Center (ANCC) for the third time. The Pathway to Excellence designation identifies the elements of work environ-ments where nurses can flourish. The designation substantiates the profes-sional satisfaction of nurses at Hous-ton Methodist Sugar Land Hospital and identifies it as one of the best places to work in the country.

“This designation represents a great deal of hard work and a true commitment to nursing excellence,” said Janet Leath-erwood, chief nursing officer at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. “Our nurses are at the heart of everything we do, and they deserve to be honored for their unrelenting compassion and care for our patients.”

The Pathway to Excellence designa-tion is granted based on the confirmed presence of characteristics known as “The Pathway to Excellence Criteria.” For an organization to earn the Path-way to Excellence distinction, it must successfully undergo a thorough review process that documents foundational

quality initiatives in creating a positive work environment as defined by nurses and supported by research. These ini-tiatives must be present in the facility’s practices, policies and culture. Nurses in the organization verify the presence of the criteria in the organization through participation in a completely confidential online survey.

As a Pathway to Excellence desig-nated organization, Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is committed to nurses, to what nurses identify as impor-tant to their practice and to valuing nurs-es’ contributions in the workplace. This designation confirms to the public that nurses working at Houston Methodist

Sugar Land Hospital know their efforts are supported. The honor encourages other nurses to join their colleagues in this desirable and nurturing environment.

The Pathway to Excellence designa-tion is perfectly suited to small and me-dium-sized health care organizations but is attainable by all health care facilities around the world.

Become a part of the Houston Meth-odist Sugar Land Hospital team. View job opportunities and apply online at houstonmethodist.org/careers.

Learn more at houstonmethodist.org/sugarland or visit on Facebook at FB.com/methodistsugarland for the lat-est news, events and information.

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Announces American Nurses CredentialingCenter Pathway to Excellence® Designation

The team of Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital nurses with their Pathway to Excellence award.


•in Historical Downtown Rosenberg•

Wed-Sat 10-5 Sun 12-5 • 801 2nd Street281-232-0035 or 832-595-9600

Enjoy The Sights & SoundsWhile You Shop Around!

D&S Antiques & Collectibles Mall

Come shop with us, then explore Historic Downtown’s 3 restaurants and 12 other antique & boutique shops.

D&S Refinishing & Restoration

Like Us or Follow Us

• Caning • Weaving • Some Reupholstery• Complete Repair and Refinishing Shop

• Sewing Machine Repair• Scissor Sharpening Full Line of Howard

Wood Care Products

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See Santa

Saturday,Dec. 13th

12 - 4 pmBring your

own camera!

NEWSWORTHY

19th Annual Ramsay Gillman Charitable Golf Tournament Sets New Record Raising $90,000 for Fort Bend Women’s Center

The Gillman Companies rose to the challenge and set a new event record by raising over $90,000 to benefit the Fort Bend Women’s Center (FBWC) at the 19th Annual Ramsay Gillman Charitable Golf Tournament. Held on Monday, No-vember 3rd at Sweetwater Country Club, nearly 200 golfers and 30 staff and volun-teers turned out to make this year’s event one of the most successful in the tourna-ment’s history. Since its inception in 1995, the Ramsay Gillman Charitable Golf Tour-nament has raised over $950,000.

The excitement of the tournament’s success still lingers in the minds of those who worked tirelessly to see the event happen. Lane Pearson of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Gary Greene and Tournament Chair expressed high praise. “It was a great day filled with lots of golfers and a record dollar amount raised for the Fort Bend Women’s Center. I couldn’t be happier with the 19th Annual Ramsay Gillman Charitable Golf Tourna-ment! Thanks to all the incredible spon-sors who support us year after year,” said Pearson.

“We feel so fortunate that the Gillman Companies have chosen to support the Women’s Center through this tournament

year after year,” commented Vita Goodell, FBWC Executive Director. “We’re able to continue working to end domestic vio-lence and sexual assault in our commu-nity by maintaining our life-changing pro-grams and services for those of us who need them most.”

Fort Bend Women’s Center’s Director of Development Anne Budill echoed the event’s success. “We couldn’t be more grateful for the hard work and dedication from the Gillman Companies. Our spon-sors are top notch and we could not have done this without their support,” she said.

Kicking off with a 12 noon shotgun start, the event included an awards din-ner, donated raffle and live auction. For

the third consecutive year, KPRC Meteo-rologist Anthony Yanez acted as master of ceremonies and gave a heartfelt re-membrance to the late Ramsay Gillman, founder of the annual Gillman Charitable Golf Tournament and the Gillman Com-panies. Jason Gillman, Executive Vice President Gillman Companies, thanked the attendees during the tournament awards dinner.

FBWC would like to thank the Gillman Companies and their generous sponsors: Bank of America, DealerTrack Technolo-gies and Service Group; PCCA; Reynolds & Reynolds; Texas Hobby/Big H Auto Auction; McAllister’s Deli of Rosenberg; Mitsubishi Motors North America and Do-browski, Larkin & Johnson; Subaru Mo-tors Finance and Americredit; Cars.com and BG Products and Alliance Berstein, Castles Designs, Edmunds.com, Social Innovation and Westwind.

The 20th Annual Ramsay Gillman Charitable Golf Tournament is scheduled for Monday, November 2, 2015. If you are interested in seeing the 2014 photo gallery or in 2015 sponsorship and team information, please visit http://fortbend-womenscenter.org/get-involved/events/gillman-golf/ for details.

Jason Gillman, Lane Pearson, Bonnie Meyer and Chris Gillman.


IN THEHEART

O F T H E B E N D

OUT&ABOUT

It was An Evening of Eclectic Opulence as guests gathered to meet Fusion Academy’s Founder, Michelle Rose Gilman, at Houston’s ZaZa Hotel to launch their 23rd Fusion Academy. The evening of distinct luxury included a signature cocktail, Acai Caipirinha, and Purple Cow macaroons.

Rebecca Lazarou and Jennifer Rumack.

Celeste and Bob Conlon.

Evan Weinberger and Elizabeth Beguerie.

Tyeler Viel and Michelle Rose Gilman.

Friends of Fort Bend Cares hosted their Fall Membership Happy Hour. Both old and new members gathered atthe home of Terri Nieser.

Kathy DeWitt and Gail McClendon.

Elin Cartier, Cindy Gazouleas and Patty Ward.

Jill DeRiso and Terry Weiner. Pamela Shaw and Mary Anne Gardner.

Terri Nieser and Jill Curtis.


Congratulations to the 2014 Fort Bend County Fair Queen candidates Melissa Ramos, Abby Knox, Mikala Stuart, Nicole Stevenson, Kasey-Lane Bronsell, Zoe Zgabay, Wendy Hobdy and Allyson Miller!

2014 Fort Bend County Fair Queen Kasey-Lane Bronsell was crowned by the 2013 Fair Queen Sami Warriner during the Queen Coronation.

Lori Lord and Michelle Shen.

Kevin Barker, Kaelyn Bujnoch, Q Iman, Leena Taneja, Farha Amed, Jim Kij and Bill Roy.

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, along with the Exchange and Rotary Clubs and Toys for Tots, hosted a free flu shot clinic and community toy drive in an effort to keep the community healthy and happy this holiday season.

April Lucas, Fili Sison, Anifa Andrade, Anna Stephen, Minimol Manavalan, Cora Hernandez, Lincy Zacharia and Ancy John.

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land breast surgeons shared new insights about breast cancer prevention and the importance of early detection at Pinot’s Palette. Attendees also enjoyed a painting session and took home their very own canvas creation.

Cheryl Bertrand, Kate Willis, Kathryn Johnson and Courtney Diepraam.


IN THEHEART

O F T H E B E N D

OUT&ABOUT

Sonja and Walt White.

Fort Bend Cares hosted a special happy hour affair at the home of Walt and Sonja White honoring Scott Breeze and Bruce Gingrich for their contributions to the organization and community.

Scott and Juliet Breeze.

Paula Foulk and Bruce Gingrich.

Trick or train! LearningRx Sugar Land hosted their Brainy Bash in November. Current and prospective students had a great time in costumes getting their brain training on.

Thomas Heathcock with Justina and Lesa Andrepont.

Marisol Walton, Lexi Artripe and Syndee Howgate.

Kristen Simmons and Calena Odom.

Carole Mixon, Liz Jacob and Michelle Garcia.

Charlie Howgate, James Garcia and Ellie Biaghoshi.


OakBend Medical Center presented Patchwork of Life at Safari Texas Ranch.The evening included dinner and a live auction to raise funds to expand OakBend’s Senior Behavior Health Services Unit. The evening also honored two community pillars of inspiration: Joe and Doris Gurecky.

Joe and Doris Gurecky.

Cee Cee and David Parker.

Pat Hebert and Joe Freudenberger.

The Quiche and Mimosa Brunch held by Friends of Child Advocates of Fort Bend allowed guests to learn about the organization and the many ways they support children who have been abused and neglected.

Charlene Rogers and Jill Parker.

Mary Favre and Sylvia Smyth.

Linda Page and Laura Thompson.

Tracie Hollis and Betsy Rohleder.

Peggy Jackson and Sue Lockwood.

Judy Maddison, Pat Somers and Cathy Yasilli.

Liz Furman, Sue Hohenstein and Anne Bulan.


IN THEHEART

O F T H E B E N D

OUT&ABOUT

Leslie Norra and Nicole Guillory.

The fall fashion event at Brooke’s Boutique celebrated the addition of the season’s newest styles in both retail and consignment boutiques.

Kelly Holman, Cecile Reynolds and Tiffany Jacobson.

Samar Qudsia, Huma Haider and Qirat Taqvi.

Huma Haider of Dr. Huma’s Med Spa showcased her new Sugar Land location with an open house for current and prospective clients. Experts in their field were on hand to speak about a wide range of treatments available at Dr. Huma’s complete medical spa.

Morghan Milburn, Ashley Williams, Huma Haider, Claudia Perez and Claire Q.

Adele Piliszek and Sanobar Jafri.

Tammie Smith and John Turner.


NEW LOCATION

NEWSWORTHYMoonlight Masquerade in VenicePlanning Begins for the Fort Bend Education

Foundation’s 22nd Annual Gala

The Fort Bend Education Foundation is pleased to an-nounce its theme for the 22nd annual gala to be held on Febru-ary 28, 2015 at the Sugar Land Marriott Town Square. Gala co-chairs Mary Ahner and Sonal Bhuchar revealed that this year’s theme, Moonlight Masquerade in Venice, presented by Perdue Brandon Fielder Collins & Mott, LLP promises to be una bella notte. This elegant masquerade ball will celebrate the success-es of the Fort Bend Education Foundation and serve as a thank you to the community for its generous support.

Mystery will abound as masked guests are transported to the moonlit canals of Venice as they enjoy fantastico edibles and the band Password, while bidding on eccezionale silent and live auction items by un favoloso auctioneer James Pat-terson.

The Fort Bend Education Foundation touches every school in Fort Bend ISD. Its mission is to enrich and enhance the qual-ity of education for all Fort Bend ISD students through its grant to teachers and schools programs.

Planning for the gala is now in progress. Information regard-ing sponsorships, auction donations, individual/raffle tickets and volunteer opportunities are available at www.fortbendisd.com/foundation.

The 2015 Gala Committee: Jeanne Megna, Liz Furman, Jessica Kij, Peggy DeMarsh, Danita Carey, Mary Favre, Jana Hermes, Carol Scott, Robin Gill, Lynn Halford, Seeju Dupre, Laura Winters, Terri Wang, Shefali Jhaveri, Peggy Jackson, Renu Narang, Nappinnai Natarajan, Rinku Ray, Patty Godfrey, Mary Ahner, Sonal Bhuchar, Carol Evans and Susie Edwards.

Beautiful Views From YourFuture Colorado Home Site

You may have dreamt about a retirement house in Colorado or just a vacation home. You may want to consider a master planned development that offers much needed utilities. This beautiful waterfront lot with picturesque mountain views in Pagosa Springs is close to the family-owned Wolf Creek Ski Area and the mineral springs that made Pagosa Springs famous. This lot is approximately .24 acres in the Pagosa Lakes development that has all utilities as well as several fishing lakes, a golf course and other amenities. $89,000

Interested?Please call

281-798-6432


absolute ly!AUTO REVIEW

absolute ly!AUTO REVIEW

By Steve Kursar

F or the last couple of decades, American and Japanese luxury carmakers have benchmarked

their German counterparts as a way to catch up to them in several areas. As a result, the non-German brands have started to look, feel and drive more German. Well, the Germans haven’t exactly been sitting back and watch-ing all of this happen. Nope, they were busy designing and engineering their cars to stay one or several steps ahead.

A perfect example is the new 2014 BMW M235i Coupe. This is the BMW that is made for the entry-level luxu-ry segment, essentially the “afford-able” step into a luxury vehicle, which means it is priced somewhere in the mid $30,000 range, although the final price tag can be much higher.

But if you do drive either or more of the worthy rear-wheel drive competi-tors to the BMW 2-Series, what you’ll discover is the emotion that only the BMW elicits from its driver. I think that comes from both that German high-way speed limits allow drivers to com-monly push their cars over 100 miles per hour and that Germans just take driving more seriously. No German would consider sipping a Starbucks Mocha Latte while driving the Auto-bahn. Both hands on the wheel and both eyes on the road at all times.

The base BMW 2-Series with an MSRP of $32,100 is the 228i with a 240 hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cyl-inder engine that gets fuel economy numbers of 23 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. The M235i is the more expensive – and way more fun

to drive – model that has a has a 320 hp, 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine.

The M235i has the abil-ity to make everyday driv-ing a dream, where just a supermarket run is fun. But throw it into Sport mode, and that’s where it shines. My daughter

loved getting on the Tollway ramp when I was able to accelerate to over 70 mph very quickly. Unfortunately for both us, there’s no Autobahn with-in driving distance. There’s a Sport mode that removes the traction con-trol feature, but I didn’t dare go there.The standard Sport mode was enough excitement for me.

The BMW M235i Coupe has thrown down the gauntlet to the American, Japanese and soon Korean carmakers looking to offer American car buyers with the best driving cars on the road. But it’s all good news for us, because all cars just keep getting better and better.

BMW M235i COUPE2014


SpecialAdvertising Section

Coming in our January Issue

New Year, New You

Call to Advertise:281-690-4242


1. Use the circle template to cut 3 inch red and greencardstock circles.

2. Cut photos into 2 1/2 inch circles. Attach photos slightly off-center to red or green circles.

3. Cut 3 1/2 inch white cardstock circles, and use shears to pink or scallop edges. Adhere photos and colored circles onto white cardstock circles, centered.

4. Cut 4 1/2 inch tag shapes and punch hole free-hand or using Cricut machine. Attach layered photo off-center on tag. Attach ribbon through hole.

5. Use a glue stick toattach three self-ad-hesive gems to red or green circles.

Supplies and Tools:• Circle templates• Scissors• Red, green and white

cardstock• Photographs of gift

recipients• Pinking shears

• Scallop-edge shears• Glue stick• Cricut machine with circle

and tag options (optional)• Hole punch• Ribbon• Various self-adhesive gems

Picture Perfect Gift TagsCrafting Time: 1–2 hours

Supplies and Tools:• Small ready-to-finish

wood crate (CD size)• 6 inch-by-12 inch ply

wood board• Craft knife and mat• Pencil• Metal straight-edge ruler• Acrylic paint of colors of

choice• Paintbrushes: medium,

small round/detail• Scissors

• 2 sheets 12 inch-by-12 inch glitter paper

• Glue• Transfer paper• Stocking pattern templates• Wood knob• 2 small hinges• Screwdriver• Hot glue gun and glue sticks• 24 inch ribbon

Stackable Crate StockingsCrafting Time: 3–5 hours

1. Place crate on top of plywood and trace all the way around crate with pencil.

2. Using metal straight-edge ruler and craft knife, cut traced outline on plywood. This will create lid for crate. Lid size should match top of crate.

3. Paint wood crate and lid desired color. Allow to dry.

4. Cut two inch strips of glitter paper. Glue glitter paper to inside of crate with glitter facing out, covering open spaces between slats.

5. Line inside of box with more glitter paper. Cut paper to size, adhere with glue.

6. Using transfer paper, draw stocking pattern template design onto lid.

7. Paint design using acrylic paint and small round/detail brush. Apply several coats if necessary. Allow to dry between coats.

8. Paint wood knob and allow to dry. Glue knob onto lid at loop of stocking.

9. Screw hinges onto crate. Glue hinges onto lid. Allow to dry.

10. Hot glue center of a 24 inch length of ribbon to inside of box. Tie ribbon around knob on lid to keep box closed.

and crafted décor sets a festive tone throughout the house for all holiday celebrations this season. Deck the halls with these spirited craft

ideas from Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores that transform your home into a holiday haven with cheerful color across the mantel, personalized gift tags, a whimsical use for ornaments and even a way to include your four-legged friends in the fun. For more seasonal crafting inspiration, project guides and supplies, visit www.joann.com.

HandcraftedHoliday Décor

HOME FEATURE


1. Fold fabric A in half with right sides together. Stitch all open sides leaving two-inch opening at end.Note: Seam allowances are 1/4 inch throughout.

2. Push fabric through opening, turning it right side out. Press piece. Repeat with fabric B.

1. Separate and paint embroidery hoops and yardstick white. Allow to dry.

2. Determine desired height of finished tree to plan where ornaments will hang. The shortest lengths of thread and ornaments are hung from smallest embroidery hoop, lon-gest hung from largest hoop.

3. Cut clear thread, using lengths determined in step above, plus two inches extra for tying and knotting.

3. Run base stitch through center of both A and B. Pull on thread to cinch both pieces at center. Place piece B on top of A and run secure stitch to hold both pieces together.

4. Cut remnant holiday fabric C to two inches by five inches. Fold in half with right sides together and sew along long edge. Flip fabric so right side shows. Wrap around center of bow and stitch in place.

5. Cut 1 inch-by-1 1/2 inch piece of fabric D using pinking shears. Place over holiday remnant C seam. Stitch down.

6. Cut two-inch length of elastic. Loop and stitch to back of bow. Position loop so collar will slide through and bow will lay horizontal on dog.

4. Construct clear ornaments. Paint confetti dot design on outside of ornament using translucent paint, allow to dry. Use clear thread to hang an LED light inside ornament or create paper tag noting a gift wish and place inside ornament.

5. Starting with smallest embroidery hoop, use shortest lengths of thread to tie green and clear ornaments all the way around hoop. Trim excess thread. Repeat for remain-ing hoops.

6. Starting with smallest hoop, secure hoop to yardstick with clear thread. Secure next larger hoop to yardstick below smaller hoop. Repeat with remaining hoops so each surrounds the previous to construct tree with layers of or-naments. Gently shift each hoop as needed to create a uniform shape. Fill empty spots with additional ornaments.

7. Hang goldornament from middle of yardstick at top of tree. For a more per-manent hold, secure hoops to yardstick with craft glue or duct tape. Source: FamilyFeatures

Supplies and Tools:• 8 inch-by-12 inch red

fabric (fabric A)• Basic sewing supplies • Sewing machine• Iron and pressing surface • 6-inch-by-10-inch ivory

fabric (fabric B)

• Pinking shears• Remnant holiday print

fabric (fabric C)• Remnant holiday print

fabric (fabric D)• 1/4-inch elastic

Doggie BowtieCrafting Time: Less than one hour

Supplies and Tools:• 5 embroidery hoops:

6 inch, 9 inch, 14 inch, 18 inch and 23 inch

• Yardstick• White acrylic paint• Ruler• Clear beading thread/

cording• Scissors• 5–10 clear plastic

ornaments (the kind that open in half)

• Paintbrushes

• Translucent paint:red, green, white

• Plastic LED lights• Scrapbook paper• Marker• 150 green shatterproof

ornaments in various finishes

• 1 gold shatterproofornament

• Craft glue or duct tape (optional)

Hung with CareChristmas TreeCrafting Time: Weekend project

Let our awards speak for usHERMES• 2014 Platinum Winner: Fort Bend Focus

100 Most Fascinating Things About Fort Bend

• 2014 Gold Winner: Fort Bend FocusFirst Annual Focus Favs

• 2014 Honorable Mention: absolutely! MemorialMemorial’s Model Gardener Kelly Emberg

• 2014 Honorable Mention: absolutely! BrazosLunches of Love

MARCOM• 2013 Platinum Winner: Fort Bend Focus

100 Most Fascinating Things About Fort Bend

• 2013 Gold Winner: Fort Bend FocusFort Bend Focus Honors the 2012 Jewels of Fort Bend

• 2013 Gold Winner: absolutely! focus mediaMarketing/Promo Campaign/Branding Refresh

TEXANA• 2013 - 2014 Platinum Winner: absolutely! Brazos

Media of the Year Award

• Hermes Creative Awards is an international competition for creative professionals involved in the concept, writing and design of traditional materials and programs, and emerging technologies.

• MarCom Awards is a creative competition for any individual or company involved in the concept, writing and design of print, visual, audio and web materials and programs.

• Texana Center’s Media of the Year Award received at the organization’s 4th Annual Reaching for the Stars Awards Ceremony.

BRAZOS • FORT BEND • KATY • MEMORIAL

www.absolutelyfocusmedia.com281.690.4242

absolutely!


Frank’s Nursery has everything you need for

your holiday decorations! $10 OFF

Purchasesover $100

Offer Exp. 12/31/14Not valid on sale items

302 FM 359 off Hwy 90-A • 281-342-3211Serving Fort Bend Countywww.franks-nursery.com

FRESH CUTCHRISTMAS TREES ANGELS REINDEER LIGHTSPOINSETTIASNATIVITY SCENES

C 7 LIGHTS REG. & LED LED LIGHTS G50 & G40 CUSTOM LINKSROPE LIGHTSC 9 LIGHTS REG. & LED

Angels• Wreaths • Reindeer Sleighs • Star & Trees

Various Sizes Available

Purchase before December 15th and receive a 10% discount on your gift card amount.

CALL FOR RESERVATIONS

AuthenticArgentinian Food& Passionate Live

Entertainment!

BOOK YOUR PRIVATE ROOMS FOR THE HOLIDAYS!

Special Menu Available for the Holidays.

OPEN FOR LUNCH AND DINNER

2110 Town Square Place, Sugar Land, TX 77479. (832) 999-4045www.tierradelfuegotx.net

GiveGift Cards!

Tierra del Fuego TXtruly embodies the Argentine Experience-

delicious food, traditional music,and even weekly Tango dancing.

This is a place that people will want tobring others to enjoy a great eating

experience!

Tx

Have your weddingdetails and photospublished in print

and online inour magazine!

Remember the day you said “I do” like

it was yesterday.

Real Weddings

If you or your children have recently married and you would like to enter for a chance to be featured in our Real Weddings, all you need is at least ten high-resolution photos of the ceremony and/or reception. It doesn’t matter where the wedding took place, as long as it was in the last year and you or your parent(s) reside in the Fort Bend area. Photographers are also welcome to submit photos – all absolutely free!

Visitwww.fortbendfocus.com

Coming in January

absolutely!DELICIOUS

Filling:• 3 eggs, slightly beaten• 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin• 3/4 cup packed light

brown sugar• 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon• 1 teaspoon salt• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves• 1 cup half and half

Prep Time: 35 minutes Chill Time: Several hours or overnight

Cook Time: 35–37 minutesYield: 6 mini pies

To make unbaked crusts, mix flour and salt in large bowl. Cut in shortening with pastry blender until pieces are size of small peas. Mix egg yolks, six tablespoons ice water and lemon juice in small bowl. Add to flour mixture, one tablespoon at a time, stirring lightly and tossing with fork until moistened and dough just holds together. Add remaining ice water, if needed. Gather dough and shape into six one inch-thick disks. Refriger-ate, wrapped in plastic wrap, one hour or overnight.

Roll out each dough disk on lightly floured surface, rolling from center to edge, to form a six inch circle. Fold into quarters; ease and unfold into a four inch pie plate. Press pastry gently against bottom and sides of pie plate, easing out any air. Trim edge, leaving 1/2 inch overhang. Fold overhang under; flute edge. Refrigerate, covered, at least 30 minutes.

Heat oven to 400°F. Whisk eggs, pumpkin, brown sugar, cin-namon, salt, ginger and cloves in medium bowl. Beat in half and half. Pour approximately 2/3 cup into each mini piecrust. Care-fully place pies on rack in oven. Bake 15 minutes. Reduce oven to 350°F; continue baking 20–22 minutes or until knife inserted midway between center and edge of pie comes out clean.

Cool completely on wire rack. Refrigerate, loosely covered, until firm, several hours or overnight. Garnish with toasted pe-cans and whipped cream.

The holidays are a special time of year to celebrate and con-nect with family and friends.

From a cookie swap at work to a formal holiday dinner at home, with the right kind of recipes and a little planning, any holiday gath-ering can be a sweet success.

Before you tie your apron strings and grab your rolling pin, avoid last minute trips to the store by stocking up on baking staples like flour, butter, sugar and eggs.

As a versatile and affordable ingredient, eggs can be used in everything and offer limitless baking pos-sibilities – from pies to cookies to eggnog. Plus, at 15 cents each, they can be an affordable way to feed a crowd for the holidays. For holiday recipes, baking hacks and more, visit www.IncredibleEgg.org.

Holiday Desserts

Crust:• 3 cups all-purpose flour• 1 teaspoon salt• 1 cup cold vegetable

shortening • 2 egg yolks• 6 - 8 tablespoons ice water,

divided• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon

juice


Mix flour, cocoa powder, baking powder and salt in a large bowl. Combine sugar, cooled chocolate, eggs, oil and pepper-mint extract in a separate mixer bowl. Beat on medium speed

• 3 eggs, room temperature• 1/2 cup vegetable oil• 1 teaspoon peppermint

extract or vanilla• 1/3 cup powdered sugar,

sifted• 1/4 cup crushed pepper

mint candies or candy canes

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar, for rolling

Prep Time: 30 minutesChill Time: 1 hour or overnight

Cook Time: 8–10 minutes per batchYield: 6 dozen cookies

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/4 cup unsweetenedcocoa powder

• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt• 2 cups granulated sugar• 1 package (12 ounces) or

2 cups semisweet choco-late chips, melted and cooled

until blended. Gradually add flour mixture, beating on low speed until blended.

Refrigerate, covered, until firm enough to shape, about one hour or overnight.

Heat oven to 350°F. Mix powdered sugar and crushed candy in small bowl. Work with 1/3 of dough at a time, keep-ing remaining dough refrigerated. Shape dough into one inch balls; roll in granulated sugar first and then in crushed candy mixture. Place two inches apart on parchment paper-lined or ungreased baking sheets.

Bake in oven until lightly browned, eight to ten minutes. Cool on baking sheets one to two minutes. Remove to wire racks; cool completely.

Source: Family Features

Prep Time: 15 minutesChill Time: 2 hours or up to 2 days

Cook Time: 8–10 minutes per batchYield: 4 dozen cookies

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature

• 1 cup granulated sugar• 2 teaspoons vanilla• 1 egg, room temperature• 2 egg yolks, room temperature• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Icing: • 2 2/3 cups powdered

sugar, sifted• 2 tablespoons meringue

powder• 4 tablespoons water

lightly floured surface to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut out cook-ies using cookie cutters; place one inch apart on parchment paper-lined or ungreased baking sheets.

Bake in oven until edges are lightly browned, 8–10 min-utes. Cool on baking sheets one minute. Remove to wire racks; cool completely.

For icing, combine powdered sugar, meringue powder and water in mixer bowl. Beat on high speed until light and fluffy, six to eight minutes. If icing is too thick, thin with small amount of additional water.

Combine butter, granulated sugar and vanilla in mixer bowl. Beat on medium speed until light and fluffy, about three minutes. Add egg and egg yolks; beat on low speed un-til blended. Gradually add flour and salt, beating just until blended. Refrigerate dough, wrapped in plastic wrap, at least two hours or up to two days.

Heat oven to 350°F. Work with half of dough at a time, keeping remaining dough refrigerated. Roll out dough on



HOLIDAY

PICK SOMETHINGDIFFERENT THIS YEAR!

Give a new backyard this holiday season. Purchase a Garden Guy gift certificate in any amount, and give a loved one the backyard of his dreams! Garden Guy.Visit www.garden-guy.com orwww.facebook.com/GardenGuyHouston.

THE GIFT OF PURE RELIEF

Luxurious care for hands and feet. Pamper the ladies on your holiday list with the gift of smooth and nourished skin. A touching gift for hands and feet. Salon Eben & Day Spa, 15510 Lexington Blvd., Suite Gin Sugar Land. Call 281-980-5160;www.salonebendayspa.com.

M Y L A G O S M Y WAY

C A V I A R C O L L E C T I O N S


281-242-2900www.jloggins.com

HOURS:Tue - Fri: 10:00 am - 6:00 pmSaturday 10:00 am - 3:00 pm

For t Bend ’ s Cus tom J ewe l e r

Watch & Jewelry

Repair on Premises

lagos_jloggins_fort_bend_focus_4-75x7-25.indd 1 9/12/2014 3:28:40 PM

MY LAGOS MY WAYSPECIAL EVENT!

Join J Loggins for My Lagos My Way.Her wish list; his price point.One Day Special Event:December 9th, 11 am – 7 pmJ Loggins Jewelers,14015 Southwest Freewayin Sugar Land. Call 281-242-2900; www.jloggins.com.

THE OBAGI 360 SKINCARE SYSTEM

Want great skin for the holidays? The Obagi 360™ Skincare System improves skin tone and acne using an exfoliating cleanser, retinol 0.5 and SPF 30 moisturizer. It’s ideal for people in their 20s and 30s.Timeless Plastic Surgery,1327 Lake Pointe Parkway,Suite 300 in Sugar Land.Call 281-242-TIME (8463);www.timelessplasticsurgery.com.


OBAGI GIFT SETFOR THE HOLIDAYS

Don’t miss out on the Obagi Elastiderm Gift Set, which includes an eye cream, eye gel complex and a beautiful gift bag. They make perfect gifts for this holiday season!

Sugar Land Face & Body Plastic Surgery,6926 Southwest Freeway in Sugar Land.

Call 281-313-0555;www.beautybecomesyou.com.

THE SEIKO SPORTURA SOLAR ALARM CHRONOGRAPH

No battery change is required for the Seiko Sportura Solar Alarm Chronograph, which is powered by light. It is 100 meters water resistant, measures up to 60 minutes in 1/5 second increments, and its alarm hands can indicate the time in a different time zone. Zeeneez Watches & Sunglasses, 2735 Town Center Boulevard N, Suite E in Sugar Land.Call 281-491-2930;www.zeeneez.com.

HOLIDAYWINE BASKET

Enjoy a wine gift basket filled with an outstanding white wine from Friuli and a superior red wine from Tuscany plus a 250 ML bottle of extra virgin olive oil from Tuscany surrounded by candy and cheeses. Tutto Bene Winery,13003 Murphy Road, Suite M10in Stafford. Call 832-532-7853;www.tuttobenewineclub.com.

RIDE IN STYLE

Get a hot new ride this holiday season from TexasDirectAuto.com. With thousands of vehicles in stock, you’re sure to find a ride that you will love!Texas Direct Auto,12053 Southwest Freewayin Stafford.Call 281-499-8200;www.TexasDirectAuto.com.

DISCOVER AGELESS BEAUTY

Discover ageless beauty in the blink of an eye at Sugar Land Plastic Surgery. Their 2-in-1 Neocutis Eye Intervention System contains an anti-aging bio-serum and eye cream, and when used in combination, completely rejuvenates eyes for an absolutely amazing transformation!Sugar Land Plastic Surgery. Call 281-980-8000;www.mybodysurgeon.com.


HOLIDAY

SPARKLESPECAN CHAMPAGNE

Give the gift of Grandma’s pecan pie with Braman Winery’s Sparkles Pecan Champagne! This sparkling white wine with all-natural pecan flavors is available at Braman Winery’s tasting room locations and on their website. Braman Winery,3333 FM 359 in Richmond. Call 281-762-1375;www.bramanbrands.com.

AUTHENTIC ARGENTINIAN CUISINE

Enjoy the authentic Argentinian experience at Tierra del Fuego TX. Book your private rooms for the holidays! Holiday gift cardsare also available.Tierra del Fuego TX,2110 Town Square Placein Sugar Land Town Square.Call 832-999-4045;www.tierradelfuegotx.net.

THE VINTAGE PEARL

Visit the Vintage Pearl formeaningful, custom hand-stamped

jewelry and Christmas ornaments created with any names, dates or

inspirational words made just for you!The Vintage Pearl, 16049 City Walk

in Sugar Land Town Square.Call 281-325-0169;

www.thevintagepearl.com.

YOUNGER,HEALTHIER SKIN

Skin Medica’s TNS Essential Serum®

is the perfect growth factor product for all skin types. It is proven to give you healthier and younger looking skin in as little as 30 days. Get yours today!

Dr. Shel Wellness and Medical Spa, 1437 Highway 6, Suite 100

in Sugar Land. Call 281-313-7435; www.drshel.com.

BEAUTIFUL SKIN REVEALED

Take 20% off Obagi Products for your Home Treatment Regimen. Forever Young Skin Care by Linda, Gallery of Salons, 11333 Fountain Lake Dr. in Stafford. Call 713-269-9955; www.lindasforeveryoung.com.


ENTER TO WINFort Bend Focus Magazine is looking for great amateur photos. Think you have a great shot? Any subject matter will be considered, black and white or color, special effects and/or edited are not necessary.

A WINNER EVERY MONTHEach month’s winner receives a $50 gift certificate to a restaurant and the winning photo will be published in our magazine. To claim your prize, call Adrienne at 281-690-4242. Runner-up photos may be published in our “Readers’ Photo Album.”

NO LIMIT TO ENTRIESTo submit a digital photo, e-mail the jpeg file to [email protected]. Digital photos must be HIGH RESOLUTION at least 300 dpi at actual size of at least 4” x 6”.

Please make sure to send some basic information about every photo you submit such as: who, where, when, a title, your name and daytime phone number.

By submitting an entry, the photographer gives the Fort Bend Focus Magazine the right to use and publish their photograph. There is no contest deadline.

December 2014 Winner

“The Bread Is Mine!”By Jinming Xu

Congratulations Jinming, you’ve earned a $50 gift certificate to a restaurant!

A M A T E U R P H O T O C O N T E S T


E V E N T S

Every Saturday, 9:00 am to 1:00 pm, rain or shine

Presented By:

198 Kempner St. at Imperial Sugar Land

Water Treatment Specialists

ENVIRONMENTALPROTECH

All MonthSunday – Wednesday, 6 – 9 pm Thursday – Saturday, 6 – 10 pmSugar Land Holiday LightsEvery night in December, Constellation Field will light up with over two million lights! Enjoy a night filled with holiday lights, meeting Santa, visiting with vendors and enjoying festive foods. With nine themed areas to walk through, Sugar Land Holiday Lights will be a memorable time for the entire family! For tickets and special holiday hours, call 281-240-4487or visit www.sugarlandholidaylights.com.

December 6th, 8:15 am Santa Shuffle and Snowfest ParadeSpread the holiday cheer with Missouri City’s one-mile Santa Shuffle Fun Run. Santa hats,reindeer antlers and ugly sweaters are encouraged! Free t-shirts will be given to the first 50 participants. No registration is required, and runners should arrive by 7:45 am at the Recreation & Tennis Center, located at 2701 Cypress Point Drive in Missouri City. Participants are encouraged to stick around after the run for the Snowfest Parade featuring floats decorated in holiday themes, horses and various organizations. Call 281-403-8637.

December 6th, 10 am – 4 pmFriends of Missouri CityAnnual Book SaleEnjoy the best book bargains around at the Friends of the Missouri City Branch Library’s Annual Winter Book Sale at 1530 Texas Parkway. The selection includes gently-used hardback and paperback books for adults and children, music CDs, videos and audiobooks on CD or cassette. Donations of gently-used books, CDs and DVDs for the book sale may be brought to the library at any time. Call 281-238-2100.

December 7th, 2 pm and 7 pmDeck the Halls with the Fort Bend Symphony OrchestraCelebrate the season with all of your favorite Christmas music once again featuring Houston Baptist University’s Schola Cantorum. Children 12 and under are free when accompanied by an adult but must have a ticket. The concert will be held at the Stafford Centre, located at 10505 Cash Road. For tickets, visit www.fbso.org or call 281-276-9642.

December 8th – 12th, Noon – 12:40 pmJourney to Bethlehem 2014Join Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, located at 16655 Southwest Freeway, as they usher in the Christmas Advent Season with a series of worship events: “The Gift of Preparation and Anticipation” on December 8th, “The Gift of Fulfillment” on December 9th, “The Gift of Obedience” on December 10th, “The Gift of the Savior’s Birth” on December 11th and “The Greatest Gift of All” on December 12th. All productions will be held in the Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Sweetwater Pavilion Chapel. Contact 281-274-7164 or visit www.houstonmethodist.org/sugarland.

December 9th, 11 am – 7 pm Lagos Designer Trunk ShowWrap up your holidays with J Loggins Jewelers at their Lagos Designer Trunk Show, where you’ll find the perfect gifts for loved ones. The fun takes place at J Loggins Jewelers, located at 14015 Southwest Freeway at Sugar Creek. Call 281-242-2900.

Sugar Land Firefighter Roosevelt Lozano.

December 4th, 11th, 14th and 19th 2015 Sugar Land Firefighter Calendar SigningsJoin the Sugar Land firefighters featured in the 2015 Sugar Land Firefighter Calendar to have your calendar signed, and bring your camera for a firefighter photo op! Proceeds from the calendar, presented by the Sugar Land Citizen’s Fire Academy Alumni Association (CFAAA) and the Sugar Land Fire Department, benefit programs such as the CFAAA Scholarship Fund and the Boots and Ladders program dedicated to providing for firefighter in times of need. For signing locations and times, visit www.slcfaa.com.

December 5th, 5:30 – 9 pm Snowfest FestivalThe 31st annual celebration at the Missouri City Civic Center Complex, located at 1522 Texas Parkway, begins with a performance by Southminster Choral Ensemble and a tree-lighting ceremony. Festivities include a snow hill, moonwalks, a visit from Santa, a rock wall, camel rides and an exclusive kids’ village providing an array of crafts and activities. Food items will be available to purchase. Attendees are encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy for The Missouri City Police Department “Blue Santa” Toy Drive. Call 281-403-8637 or visit www.missouricitytx.gov.


E V E N T SSUGAR LAND TOWN SQUARE CALENDAR OF EVENTS

www.sugarlandtownsquare.comCall 281.313.SLTS

Submit calendar events atwww.fortbendfocus.com

The City of Sugar Land’s 12th Annual Tree Lighting CeremonyThursday, December 4th5 – 8 pm

KHOU Channel 11’s Secret Santa Toy Drive Drop OffFriday, December 5th 4 – 8 pm

Holidays in the Plaza with the Kempner High School BandFriday, December 5th 6:30 – 8:30 pm

Holidays in the Plaza with Savannah BerrySaturday, December 6th7:30 – 9:30 pm

Photos with SantaSunday, December 7th, 14th and 21st1 – 5 pm

Holidays in the Plaza with Riverpointe Church’s School of RockFriday, December 12th 6 – 8 pm

Holiday Dance ShowcaseSaturday, December 13th11 am – 5 pm

Movie Under the Moon Saturday, December 13th7:30 – 9:30 pm

Menorah CelebrationWednesday, December 17th6:30 – 8 pm

Holidays in the Plaza with Memorial Drive United Methodist ChurchFriday, December 19th 5 – 7 pm

Holidays in the Plaza with First Colony Church of ChristSaturday, December 20th 5 – 7 pm

City of Sugar Land’s New Year’s Eve CelebrationWednesday, December 31st 7 pm

December 11th, 5 – 7 pm Senior Holiday PartyGet in the holiday spirit with great company at the Missouri City Community Center, located at 1522 Texas Parkway. Doors will open at 5 pm, and dinner will be available from 5 to 6:30 pm. Starting at 6:30 pm, the Missouri City Ballet will perform a special showing of The Nutcracker. Guests are encouraged to bring canned goods that will be given to families in need during the holiday season. Tickets may be purchased for $5 at the Missouri City Recreation & Tennis Center, located at 2701 Cypress Point Drive, or by calling 281-403-8637.

December 12th – 14th BalletForte Presents The NutcrackerIndulge in the spirit of the holiday season with the magic and adventure of BalletForte’s The Nutcracker. Overflowing with extraordinary characters, exquisite scenery and costumes, captivating dancing and Tchaikovsky’s beloved score, this holiday classic will enchant the entire family. Show times are December 12th at 7:30 pm, December 13th at 2 and 7:30 pm and December 14th at 2 pm at the Stafford Centre Performing Arts Theatre, located at 10505 Cash Road. To purchase tickets, call 281-799-7554 or visit www.balletforte.org.

December 14th, 5 – 6 pmAdvent Hymn FestivalJoin the Sanctuary Choir of New Hope Lutheran Church as they lead the congregation in festive settings of the wonderful hymnody of Advent. Anthems and organ music will round what is sure to be a wonderful, worshipful evening at New Hope Lutheran Church, located at 1424 FM 1092 in Missouri City. Visit www.newhopelc.org.

December 13th and 14th, 7 pmSugar Land Christmas CelebrationJoin Sugar Land Baptist Church, located at 16755 Southwest Freeway, for a Sugar Land Christmas Celebration featuring artists Ballet Grace, soprano Elisha Jordan, classical tenor Scot R. Cameron, gospel singer Kristine Trigg, contemporary artist Braxton Edwards, violinist Aija Izaks and others. Tickets are $5 for general admission and $20 for reserved seating. Childcare is provided for children under five by reservation. For tickets, visit www.sugarlandbaptist.org/slcc or call 281-275-6503.

December 17th, 5:30 – 6:30 pmGingerbread House Contest for TeensTeens in grades six and up are invited to take a break from studying for finals and compete in a contest to create the ultimate gingerbread house at the First Colony Branch Library, located at 2121 Austin Parkway in Sugar Land. Materials will be provided. Call 281-238-2800.

December 30th, 2:30 – 4 pmWinter Craft Drop-In The First Colony Branch Library, located at 2121 Austin Parkway in Sugar Land, will have a special program for families with children of all ages. Escape the cold and get creative with make-and-take crafts at this fun come-and-go event. Call 281-238-2800.

By Alisa Murraywww.AlisaMurray.comNationally recognized

portrait artist and award-winning columnist.

W ell my friends, December has rolled back around to us yet again! Hardly yesterday

it seems I was getting ready for spring, and all at once, 2014 flew by making me wonder if all of the rest of my years will be the same. Gosh knows I surely hope not! The time we have here is more precious as we get old enough to realize what life is . . . oddly, very short. In the time that we each have been given, God has gifted us with special talents. I re-cently listened to a sermon about fan-ning the flames and holding onto your torch. Each of us has a passion some-where deep inside of us. Sometimes it’s so easy to see. It’s glaring at us from the very beginning like Michael Jack-son and later in teen years, Michael Jordan. For most though, it’s not just “right there obvious.”

As an artist, it has always been my “passion with a purpose” to create images, and based on my life experi-ences, use photography to permanently document people at various stages and capture the relationships we all have. Some years, I have been running with a torch burning bright and on fire. Other years, I have been walking with my torch, my arm bent weakened by stress over the economy, the children, my life. God has this wonderful plan for us, though. He gets us here with specif-ic talents and places a burning desire to grow and share with others from the fruits of using these talents. In years of

strife, it’s easy to want to just put the torch down, stop running and do some-thing else. Don’t!

As a new year comes in, so does an opportunity awaiting you to seize hold of whatever it is that drives you. Search deep within yourself to find the special gift God has given you and only you. Once you find it, create a life around it, and give it to whoever will take it. Someone asked me recently if I could go back to being a teenager, would I? I said “no.” Then, they asked if I could go back to being in my 20s and 30s, would I? I said “no” to all of that. I am happy right where I am. I am happy because I am growing. I am running with my torch in my hand. My finish line is mine, and it will be scattered with years of rampant passion and cre-ativity, as well as years of wondering if

Living the Sweet Life

this is really what I am supposed to be doing with my life. Am I making a dif-ference? Am I using my gifts to glorify Him?

I used to want to photograph ev-eryone in Houston. I now have the sense to know that God only provides the correct people in my life to receive my gifts. Not everyone is supposed to be with me. I am thankful for having learned this lesson.

This new year, I am again on fire! I have plans to start doing underwater prenatal photography, a baby calendar showcasing my best work and write my first novel. I have been working on a collection of paintings, and I think by mid-year, they will be ready to submit for acceptance into the National Asso-ciation of Women Artists. I hope this year will bring you joy and that you will pass me as we together run with our torches held high!

Take Care of YOU!


DARE YOUWE TRIPLE DOG

SELL US YOUR CAR!

december 2014 - fort bend focus magazine - people • places • happenings

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