Life & Style

The Gift of Fostering a Child

photo by Matt Cornelius
When most people think of family, they think of relatives connected by blood, a shared last name, or years of memories that trace back to the beginning. But for Pat Freeman, family has a far deeper meaning. … At age 82, Pat Freeman has opened her heart and her home to over 100 children in need, fostering them, loving them, and, in some cases, adopting them. Through each foster placement, she has shown that family is truly where love, stability, and kindness are found. “Our foster children were given the same love, care, and attention as our biological children,” Freeman recalls.

Red River Sanctuary

photos by Matt Cornelius
Nestled near the Red River in Foreman, Arkansas, this family lodge is a beautifully crafted haven, blending rustic elegance and the simplicity of nature. Purchased in 2000, the property has evolved from a row crop farm into a flourishing ranch with cattle operations and an orchard of native pecan trees. … The lodge, with its rich wood accents, stonework, and open beams, reflects the land’s rugged beauty. Expansive windows invite the outdoors in, offering sweeping views of the lake and surrounding landscape.

TXK 411

Christmas Card Grammar … Making it merry and bright is all in the details. Here is your quick guide to pluralizing names for holiday cards—no apostrophes needed, ever. These tips should help you address your Christmas cards with polished and correct formatting.

The Monthly Mix

Holiday Wear … Plaid, sparkle, and festive flair—our December Monthly Mix is all about holiday wear. Whether you are stepping out for a spirited holiday party or hosting with a bit of extra glam, we have the perfect picks from local boutiques. Picture classic plaid, rich holiday hues, and a hint of shimmer to make every look merry and bright.

Publisher's Letter

photo by Matt Cornelius
December brings out the best in generosity, through gifts, charity, and acts of kindness. It is a month that inspires us to focus on others and embrace the joy of the season. Amid the busyness of the holiday chaos—shopping lists, kid’s activities, and the mad dash for last-minute gifts—this issue gave us the opportunity to share the story of Mrs. Pat Freeman.

Style + Serve

photos by Matt Cornelius
As Thanksgiving approaches, the dining table becomes the setting for reunions, delicious recipes, and time-honored traditions. These Thanksgiving tablescapes showcase a variety of styles to inspire your holiday table décor. Whether you are drawn to a cozy outdoor setting, a classic Thanksgiving arrangement, a sleek modern look, simple candlelit designs, or a playful kid’s table, there is something for every taste. Best of all, each tablescape features pieces from local Texarkana businesses, making it easy to recreate the looks while adding your own personal touch.

My Drift

photo by Matt Cornelius
Y’all Ready for This? … In 1996, Warner Brothers released Space Jam, a sports comedy starring Michael Jordan and Bugs Bunny. I never saw it, but the theme song by the Quad City DJs became something of a hit, peaking at number 37 on the Billboard Hot 100. You’d know it if I hummed a few bars; it’s a quirky techno-pop-sounding number featuring the lyrics, “Y’all ready for this?” … Over the almost thirty years it’s been around, “Space Jam” has become the overture to my internal last-quarter soundtrack.

The Monthly Mix

Local Gift Ideas … These unique finds and handcrafted items made or sold right here in Texarkana make perfect gifts for any occasion. With the holidays approaching, these local treasures will inspire your gift-giving while supporting our community’s talented creators and businesses.

TXK 411

Sipping Seasonally … Wassail is the perfect holiday tradition, filling your home with the warm, inviting aroma of apple and cinnamon. It’s an ideal drink for a chilly day, whether you are gathered around the table for Thanksgiving or sipping it on Christmas morning. This recipe strikes a perfect balance—not too sweet, with just the right blend of flavors.

Publisher's Letter

I love a good milestone, and November is always one for us. It is the month we celebrate another year of being in print. This year makes four, and let me tell you, it definitely feels longer, because starting a business is no walk in the park. It is more like a hike up a mountain, with the occasional stumble along treacherous, rocky paths. But I am grateful for every summit and every struggle along the way. The growth I have seen since those early days is rewarding, even if it has come with a few gray hairs. … November also brings a few seasonal constants.

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December 2024
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