Health + Wellness

The Healing Power of Giving

How Acts of Generosity Boost Mental Health Article by Shannon Roberts In a world that often emphasizes getting ahead, achieving success, and accumulating more, the simple act of giving can feel like a quiet rebellion. Yet, science and experience both reveal that giving, whether through time, resources, kindness, or compassion, has a profound ability to uplift not only others but also ourselves. Far from being merely a moral good, generosity carries measurable benefits for mental health...

Food + Beverage

Crockpot Christmas Crack

Simple to Make, Impossible to Resist — Chocolate and Nut Bliss! Article by Shannon Roberts Ingredients 16 oz (1 lb) salted dry-roasted peanuts 16 oz (1 lb) unsalted dry-roasted peanuts 1 (12 oz) bag semi-sweet chocolate chips 1 (12 oz) bag milk chocolate chips 2 (10 oz) packages of peanut butter chips 2 (16 oz) packages chocolate almond bark (or vanilla almond bark for swirl) 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional but adds warmth) Festive toppings (optional): ...

Life + Culture

The True Meaning of Christmas

A season not just of gifts and lights, but of love, gratitude, reflection, and the joy of giving from the heart. Article by Shannon Roberts Each year, as December arrives, the world begins to transform. Streets glimmer beneath strands of twinkling lights, the scent of pine and cinnamon fills the air, and familiar melodies drift from every store and car radio. Families unpack ornaments wrapped in tissue, friends gather for parties, and children count the days until Christmas morning. Yet amid...

Food + Beverage

Lou's Chocolate Candy

A Family Tradition of Christmas Candy Making, Passed Down Through the Generations Article by Shannon Roberts Ingredients ·         1 Stick of margarine or butter ·         1 Pound of powdered sugar ·         1 Can Eagle Brand Milk ·         4 Cups of pecan pieces ·         7oz of Angel Flake coconut ·         1tsp of vanilla ·         2 (12oz) bag of semi sweet chocolate chips ·         1 Box of Gulf Wax (household paraffin wax) Step1. Using a Kitchenaid-style mixer, combine butter...

Health + Wellness

Editor's Corner

The Holiday Season, Less Stress, More Joy! Article by Shannon Roberts Six simple steps to help you stay calm and enjoy the festivities. 1.      Plan Ahead ·         Avoid last minute chaos by creating a schedule for shopping, events, and meal prep. ·         Setting deadlines for tasks can help you stay organized and in control. 2.      Set a Budget ·         Financial strain is a major source of stress during the holidays. ·         Decide how much you can afford to spend and stick to...

Health + Wellness

Community Spirit Shines Through Giving

Food Banks Provide Hope, Dignity, and Meals to Those Struggling Article by Shannon Roberts In every community, food banks stand as beacons of hope, compassion, and unity. They are more than shelves stocked with canned goods—they are lifelines for families facing challenging times, providing nourishment, dignity, and reassurance that no one is alone in their struggle. Volunteers, donors, and neighbors come together to fight hunger, turning generosity into action and kindness into meals. Each...

Health + Wellness

Editor's Corner

Living Thankful on Purpose! Article by Shannon Roberts Living with gratitude isn’t about waiting for big moments, it’s about finding joy in the everyday. Here are five simple steps to cultivate thankfulness: 1. Start the Day with Awareness Each morning, pause to acknowledge something you’re grateful for, whether it’s health, family, or simply the gift of a new day. 2. Reflect Daily At night, note three things that went well. This practice shifts focus away from worries and trains your...

Home + Design

Falling Grateful

Transforming your home into a haven of seasonal thanks Article by Angie Terry Something magical about fall is the crisp air, golden leaves crunching underfoot, and the aroma of spiced cider drifting through the kitchen. Autumn is a season that invites us to slow down, reflect, and embrace gratitude. It’s a time when nature reminds us that change can be beautiful, and our homes become the heart of comfort and gathering. By weaving in the essence of thankfulness, you can transform your living...

Food + Beverage

Vanilla Basque Cheesecake

Executive Chef Cameran Barber, The Bridges Golf Club in Gunter, Tx Article by Shannon Roberts | Photography by Courtesy of Centurion American Vanilla Basque cheesecake is a rustic yet elegant dessert with a creamy custard-like center and a caramelized top. Originating in the Basque region of Spain, it is often called a “burnt” cheesecake because of its signature dark surface created by high-heat baking. Unlike traditional cheesecakes, it requires no crust, which makes it both simple and...

Food + Beverage

Savor the Moment

Indulge in elevated dining, from handcrafted cocktails to dishes infused with bold southwestern flair Article by Angie Terry | Photography by Courtesy of Burnt by J.H. Nestled in the heart of downtown Van Alstyne, Burnt by J.H. is redefining what it means to dine in style. This modern classic restaurant, created by acclaimed Dallas-based Chef James Harrison, delivers an elevated culinary experience that blends timeless traditions with a bold southwestern twist. From the moment you step inside...