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THE BELL FAMILY ON 

AMAZING 

DESTINATIONS 

IN TEXAS 

TALKING SHOP WITH 

CLINT HARP

Smile with 

CONFIDENCE 

DENTAL IMPLANTS • LUMINEERS • ORTHODONTICS • CROWNS • FILLINGS 

HOWELL DENTAL ASSOCIATES 

Cosmetic and Family Dentistry 

254.778.4402 | 5238 South 31st St. • Temple, Texas 

Jhowelldds@aol.com 

www.YourTempleDentist.com

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Modern Texas Living 

ModernTexasLiving 

Publishers 

Brandy Stoffel Ashley Munn Haley Holden 

Contributing Photographers 

Mayfield Fine Photography 

Alex Wolf Photography 

Tumbling Sparrow Photography 

Ashley Munn Photography 

Contributing Creatives 

Rachel McGee 

Amy McCauley 

TwoTone Creative 

moderntexasliving.com 

Modern Texas Living is published by Lifestylemag CentralTX, LLC. The cover and contents are protected by copyright and cannot be reproduced 

without prior written permission. All rights reserved. ©Lifestylemag CentralTX, LLC.

STYLE, QUALITY & CHARACTER 

HANDMADE IN TEXAS 

CUSTOM DESIGNS • STORE FRONT • SHOW ROOM 

Waco’s Original 

www.jdhirondesigns.com 

COME VISIT US! 

Monday – Saturday • 9am - 5pm 

9685 Lone Star Parkway 

Valley Mills, TX 76689 

254.486.9150

IN THIS 

ISSUE 

03 

AT HOME 

Style & Function 03 

DIY Master Bedroom Design 15 

21 

IN THE KITCHEN 

Pressure Cooker Recipes 21 

Grocery Shopping 25 

Table Centerpieces 27 

33 

IN GOOD HEALTH 

Eating Healthy on a Budget 33 

35 

FEATURES 

Talking Shop wih Clint Harp 35 

The Bell Family on Faith and Football 39 

45 

ON THE ROAD 

Texas Getaways 45 

Planning for the Perfect Road Trip 49 

53 

INSIDE BUSINESS 

How to Build a Social Media Platform 53 

Making Mary Avenue Market 57 

61 

OF LIFE AND STYLE 

Top 5 Hair Tools 61 

College Life in Waco 65 

StyleGram with Janene Crossley 71 

What to Wear: Family Photos 73 

77 

SHE SAYS 

Kate Holcomb 77 

5 Tips for Kid Spaces 79 

83 

HE SAYS 

Photographing the Wild 83 

89 

FROM THE HEART 

Keep the Faith 89 

Finding Love 91 

Divorce Late in Life 95 

A Warrior’s Battle 97 

ON THE COVER 

Photograph of Clint Harp 

by Mayfield Photography

AT HOME 

& 

STYLE 

FUNCTION 

As the wife of Texas 

Professional Exteriors owner 

Daron Farmer, Abbey knew 

her dream home would be 

both stylish and functional. 

3 | moderntexasliving.com

Photographs by Ashley Munn Photography 

There is something special about raising a family on beautiful land with lots of room to play and animals to 

care for. We wanted a place roomy for family and friends to visit, yet cozy for the four of us.” Abbey Farmer 

says. “We broke ground in October and moved in three days after Christmas. Ninety days is unheard of for 

building a home.” Drawing from Southern roots and mixed inspiration, the Farmers’ home encompasses style 

from colonial to cottage. “We made a decision to make it fun and grow us.” 

MODERN TEXAS LIVING | 4

AT HOME 

Casual meets elegance in the Farmer’s 

entryway. A statement chandelier from 

Restoration Hardware dresses up the 

rustic wood tones of the millwork six 

pane front door and light stained, wide 

planked, hardwood flooring.

Your Place. Like Home. 

501 South 8 th Street 

254.235.1777 

@TheFinderyWaco 

thefindery.com

AT HOME 

Kitchen light fixtures 

Ferguson’s in Waco 

www.ferguson.com 

Appliances 

Thermador 

www.thermador.com

Black and wood accents warm up the all 

white kitchen. Two tone counter tops on 

the island and surrounding cabinetry tie 

pendant lighting and metal accented bar 

stools into the overall kitchen design. 


REASONABLE RATES • FREE ESTIMATES 

Tree Trimming • Driveways 

Driveway Repair • Skid Steer Service 

Bucket Truck Service 

no job too small 

Kyle Williams, OWNER 

OFF-DUTY POLICE OFFICER 

254.978.2161 

RELIABLE • INSURED • BONDED 

Let me 

help make your dream 

home a reality 

LINDSY MORTIMER | c: 254-709-1037 | lindsymortimer@magnoliarealty.com 

Barn wood for beams from 

Homestead Heritage 

www.homesteadheritage.com 

Abbey purchased the living room chandelier 

through Fergusons to tie in the contemporary 

kitchen with the French country living room.


AT HOME 

Daybed 

World Market 

www.worldmarket.com 

Every sun porch should be 

furnished with a daybed, porch 

rocker or bed swing. 

A Legacy of Service 

SINCE 1867 

I would love to help you find the perfect home 

JENNIFER JENKINS 

c: 254-749-3321 

jenniferjenkins@magnoliarealty.com 

Let me 

help make your dream 

home a reality 

Woodway 254-753-2466 | Waco 254-399-8111 

HomeAbstract.com 

LINDSY MORTIMER | c: 254-709-1037 | lindsymortimer@magnoliarealty.com

Work out, watch a movie, or win the 

game with designated square footage. 

From soaker tub to walk-in 

shower, the master bath says 

luxury. You’d never know the 

Farmers saved money with 

faux marble.

AT HOME 

“I’m a believer in mixing metals.” 

Abbey said of the mixed metal 

hardware throughout. “I love a little 

bit of everything and that is the 

beauty of building; you can choose 

whatever you like.”


AT HOME 

DIY 

MASTER 

BEDROOM 

DESIGN 


jigsaw 

upholstered 

box springs 

G 

reat design doesn’t have to be expensive. 

With a little creativity and some out of the box 

thinking, you can make your dream space come 

alive. This Master Retreat created by Sean and Rachel 

McGee is just that – a dream space. After all the work 

and money that the McGee’s had already put into the 

rest of their house, they knew their master bedroom 

budget would have to be small. “The bed I fell in love 

with was way out of our price range, but I just couldn’t 

stop coming back to it.” Rachel tells us. Determined 

to have the bed of her dreams, she devised a plan to 

recreate it for just under $200! 

“I made the headboard using a standard piece 

of 4 x 8 plywood, cut down to the standard king size 

of 75 inches wide. Then, I used poster board to free 

hand half of the design. I cut the poster board design 

out and placed it on one side of the plywood, traced 

the design, then flipped it over to the other side and 

repeated that step so we had a perfectly mirrored 

image. I then cut the design out of the plywood using 

a jig saw.” The jig saw is an easy tool to use, even for 

a DIY beginner. Considering the cost of an average jig 

saw is around $50, and can be used for projects ranging 

from carpet to ceramic tile, it is a great investment. 

Rachel used a full size eggshell mattress pad 

in place of expensive foam and batting. “I’m not a 

professional at upholstering. I knew with all of the 

curves it was going to be hard to get it wrinkle free. 

I figured the less bulky the padding was, the easier it 

would be.” Instead of attaching the headboard to the 

bed frame as you normally would, Rachel and Sean 

hung it on the wall, thus creating the appearance of a 

tall, large scale headboard. 

If you can believe it, this bed actually has no real 

frame. The McGee’s attached 2 x 4 boards to the 

bottom of their existing twin box springs and added 

turned furniture legs purchased through Amazon. 

Rachel upholstered the box springs together, using 


a hand-crafted collection 

PILLOWS | WALLPAPER | SWADDLE BLANKETS | ACCENTS 

LAURELANDBLUSH.COM

VINTAGE CANE BARREL 

CHAIRS GIVE THIS 

ROOM’S MODERN LOOK 

A DELICATE TOUCH.

inside Sironia 

Texas farmhouse boutique 

with unique vintage, modern, 

rustic and classic treasures. 

Sironia | 1509 Austin Ave | Waco | 254.230.8567

the same fabric from the headboard to create a 

uniform look. 

Vintage cane barrel chairs give this room’s modern 

look a delicate touch. Rachel found the chairs for just 

$2.50 each on a resale page. “I could hardly believe 

someone was willing to practically give this pair away.” 

Re-purposing furniture from re-sale pages and apps 

is a great way to keep your budget low. You can breathe 

new life into an old piece with a little bit of paint and 

some TLC. “I was even able to paint the upholstery by 

mixing a fabric medium with some left-over wall paint.” 

The bedroom’s tall walls and gorgeous tray ceilings 

are emphasized by hanging the drapes just a few 

inches below the molding. “I absolutely love the 

luxurious look of pinch pleat drapery but they are 

usually pretty pricey. I found these curtains on Amazon. 

I would have sewn some of my own if these weren’t 

so inexpensive.” Using back tab drapery can give your 

window treatments a pleated appearance. 

All of the other accent furniture pieces in the 

McGee’s bedroom were also budget-friendly finds. “I 

love to shop on sites such as Wayfair and Target for a 

lot of our accent furniture. With three small children, it’s 

inevitable that the majority of our stuff will get beat up, 

so quality isn’t necessarily my priority in this season of 

life. Companies like these offer great looking pieces at 

very reasonable prices.” 

The next time you see a beautiful room design and 

think it’s out of your reach, roll up your sleeves. With a 

little DIY, it can be yours! 

You can find more of Rachel McGee’s work at 

www.rachelelizabethblog.com. 

fabric medium 

+ wall paint


PRESSURE COOKER 

RECIPES 

CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP 

DIRECTIONS 

Turn pressure cooker to “brown” or “sauté”. Toss in the butter and minced garlic. 

Once butter is melted, add carrots and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes or until carrots are 

soft. Add all the ingredients except the noodles to the pressure cooker. Lock lid into 

place, making sure pressure valve is closed, and cook for 15 minutes. Boil noodles while 

waiting on cooker. Let stand for 5-10 minutes before releasing pressure. Pull out chicken 

breast, shred and add back to pot. 

INGREDIENTS 

1 10.5 oz can Cream of Chicken Soup 

2 Fresh or Frozen Chicken Breasts 

1 C Water 

2 C Chicken Broth 

1 T Minced Garlic 

1 T Butter 

1 C Chopped Carrots 

1 C Celery 

1/2 Tsp Dried Basil 

1 Tsp Onion Powder 

1/2 Tsp Oregano 

To Taste Salt and Pepper 

8 oz Egg Noodles 


CARNITAS 

INGREDIENTS 

1 Package 

1 1/2 Cups 

2 T 

1 

1/2 Tsp 

2 T 

Smithfield Boneless Pork Shoulder Seasoned Carnitas 

About 2 1/2 pounds 

Orange juice 

Brown sugar 

Lime 

Salt 

Chopped cilantro 

DIRECTIONS 

Cut the pork shoulder into 2 inch cubes and place in the pot of an electric pressure 

cooker. Cover with the orange juice and brown sugar. Close lid and set vent to sealing. 

Cook on high pressure for 27 minutes. Let pressure release naturally, about 15 minutes. 

Remove the pork from the liquid and shred with two forks. 

Place meat on a metal cookie sheet and squeeze lime juice over the top of the meat. 

Sprinkle with salt. Place under the broiler until meat is crisp on the edges, about 5 

minutes, stirring occasionally. Sprinkle meat with cilantro and serve as a filling for tacos, 

burritos, or over rice. 



CHILI MAC 

INGREDIENTS 

1 T 

Vegetable or canola oil 

2 C 

Water 

1 

Medium onion, diced 

14.5 oz 

Can diced tomatoes 

1 

Red bell pepper, seeded and diced 

2 C 

Elbow macaroni 

3 

1 

2 T 

1/4 Tsp 

1 Lb 

Garlic cloves, minced 

Optional: press through a garlic press 

Jalapeño, finely diced 

Chili powder 

Cayenne pepper (optional) 

Ground beef 

85 percent lean or ground turkey 

1 C 

2 T 

To Taste 

4 oz 

Garnish 

Frozen corn 

Chopped cilantro 

Salt and pepper 

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend 

Sour cream and avocado, optional 

DIRECTIONS 

Preheat the pressure cooker over medium heat (or use the sauté setting on the Instant Pot). Heat the oil until simmering. 

Sauté the onion and red pepper until softened, then add the garlic and jalapeño and sauté until fragrant. Add the meat 

and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon while cooking. Add the water, tomatoes, and pasta. 

In a regular pressure cooker, bring to high pressure over medium-high heat then reduce heat to medium-low and cook 

for five minutes. Quick release the pressure. 

In an Instant Pot, set to bean/chili and set time for five minutes. 

At the end of the cook time, turn the Instant Pot off and quick release the pressure. Stir in the corn and the cilantro. The 

residual heat from the pot should thaw the corn. Salt and pepper to taste, then stir in the cheese. Serve immediately, 

topped with sour cream and avocado if desired. 


BUTTER RANCH 

BONELESS PORK CHOPS 

INGREDIENTS 

1 T 

4-6 

1 Stick 

1 Package 

1 C 

Olive oil 

Boneless pork chops 

Butter (or margarine) 

Ranch mix 

Water 

DIRECTIONS 

Place the pork chops in the Instant pot with the 

tablespoon of olive oil. Turn on the sauté setting and 

brown on both sides. Make sure all pork chops are 

browned (this step is optional but chops look prettier 

when browned first). Place the butter on top and sprinkle 

ranch mix on top. Pour water over pork. Place the lid 

on and set to sealing. Push the manual button and set 

to 5 minutes. Allow it to naturally release pressure for 5 

minutes and then do a quick release to remove the rest 

of the pressure. Spoon sauce over chops and serve. 



Online or Curb-Side 

GROCERY SHOPPING 

IN WACO 

Submitted by Waco Moms Blog • Visit waco.citymomsblog.com for more helpful mom advice. 

If you use Amazon Pantry to shop in your pajamas, you probably wish 

you could add fresh produce, or local HEB salsa, to your cart. While 

Amazon’s Prime Fresh is not yet available in Central Texas, check out 

these grocery service options. 

CURB-SIDE PICK-UP 

Want the in-store prices, but skip the 

line? Try curb-side pick-up. 

HEB TO YOU 

VALLEY MILLS AND WOODWAY 

Pick-up: 7:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. 

Place order by 9:00 a.m. for same day 

pick-up at 4:00 p.m. 

Fees: Expect about a $5 shopping fee. 

SHIPT FOR HEB 

DELIVERY 

Same day available, including suburban areas, and free for orders 

over $35. 

FEES 

Membership costs range from $8.25 to $14 a month. 

INSTACART FOR HEB 

DELIVERY 

From 9:00 a.m.-11:00 p.m. daily, you can schedule delivery in as little 

as an hour or up to 7 days in advance. 

FEES 

Membership costs $149 a year for free deliveries of $35 minimum 

purchases. 

WALMART CURB-SIDE 

FRANKLIN AVENUE 

Pick-up: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. 

Fees: Free pick-up, and no mark-up 

If you enjoy shopping for fresh produce, 

consider having your non-perishables 

(e.g., diapers) ready for curb-side pick-up 

on a Saturday morning before heading 

to any of the three Waco farmers’ 

markets to enjoy breakfast and great 

local shopping. 

WACO MOM’S BLOG 

Photo courtesy of Rachel Whyte Photography 

Online grocery services may have a mark-up on in-store prices, may not honor some 

coupons, and may not have all in-store items available for delivery. 


FREE HOME INSPECTIONS | FINANCING AVAILABLE 

Concrete Pier Repair 

Combo Pier Repair 

Pier & Beam Repair 

Steel Pier Repair 

Drain Systems 

254-420-4910 

wacofoundationrepair.com 

WacoFoundationRepair


TABLESCAPES 

By Jill Nelson 

Whether you have a formal dining room that you rarely use or a less 

formal eating area that you use every day, it’s always nice to have 

something pretty on the table that you can enjoy. These centerpiece 

ideas are unique and simple to put together. 


VINTAGE TOOL CADDY 

A vintage tool caddy (this one is from The Cedar Chest) works well for a long 

narrow table. It’s substantial yet has a small footprint overall and is low enough 

that you won’t be dodging to see the person seated across from you. I filled it 

with silk hydrangeas from Jo Ann’s (I cut the stems off by half first), but any faux 

blooms or greenery would do. The handle on the caddy makes it easy to grab 

and move out of the way when you need to. 



CHICKEN FEEDER 

Another idea for a narrow table is a chicken feeder. They’re relatively easy to 

find at antique or junk stores and come in all sizes. This one from Junque in the 

Trunk is small and inexpensive. If you fill it with plates you already own, you’ve 

got yourself a unique centerpiece for very little money.

WOODEN BOX 

This wooden box filled with ferns makes a statement, adds texture, and is a snap to throw together. I packed 

plastic grocery bags in the box before adding the greenery. When the greenery gets dusty, yank them out, 

wash them off, allow to dry, and pop back in. The handles on the box make it easy to grab and move out of 

the way when needed. The box and ferns (I used about eight stems) are from Hobby Lobby. 




SILVER TRAY 

You can never go wrong with a silver tray as the base for a centerpiece. This one from Junque in the Trunk is 

ornate and tarnished to perfection. To save money, you can use accessories or decorative items you already 

own. Think big, medium, small. Here, I used an urn from Hobby Lobby filled with greenery from IKEA as my 

largest item, a dark metal trophy cup (also from Hobby Lobby) with some flashcards from Canton Trade Days 

tucked inside, and a blue and white china tureen.

IN GOOD HEALTH 

EATING HEALTHY 

ON A BUDGET 

By Kodie Talley, online health and fitness coach at www.kodietalleyfitness.com 

There is a common misconception that to eat healthy means 

to break the bank at the grocery store. Healthy eating does not 

have to be expensive poultry or organic vegetables. 

Here are top tips on how to eat clean on a 

$40 budget for a week! 

GROCERY LIST 

PRODUCE 

1 bag of store brand baby spinach.................................... $1.78 

3 green bell peppers (.68 cents ea.)................................... $2.04 

2 cucumbers (.38 cents ea).................................................. $0.76 

1 bag grapefruits (5 lbs)...................................................... $2.78 

1 bundle bananas (.48 cents per lb, 5.89 lbs).................... $2.83 

2 frozen bags of mixed vegetables ($1.38 ea.)..................$2.76 

2 Ib strawberries.................................................................. $1.88 

2 romaine Lettuce ($1.58 ea.).............................................. $3.16 

1 bag of red potatoes (5 lbs).............................................. $2.89 

MEAT 

1 lean ground turkey (3 lbs) ................................................$3.44 

1 tilapia fillet bag .................................................................$5.00 

1 chicken breast tenders......................................................$6.26 

GRAINS 

1 whole wheat bread...........................................................$1.56 

1 dark red kidney beans......................................................$0.59 

2 black beans (.59 cents ea.)................................................$1.89 

DAIRY 

2 dozen eggs (.88 ea.) .........................................................$1.76 

$40.14

QUICK TIPS 

PLAN MEALS AND MAKE A LIST 

There is no easier way to go over budget than going to the store without 

a list and a plan. 

STICK TO NECESSITIES 

Shop only for what is necessary to your meal plan, and consider less 

expensive substitutes. For example, you can save money by using water 

instead of almond milk for smoothies. Luxury items like protein bars can 

be completely left off your meal plan. 

DO NOT OVER ESTIMATE 

While buying in bulk saves money over time, if you only have $40, pick 

the cheapest option that will provide food for the week. Do spend time 

calculating the quantity of items to price, though. Buying two 15 ounces 

cans of beans at .59 cents each, saves you .17 cents over one 24 ounces 

can at $1.35 and you get more. 

EARN AND USE REWARDS AND COUPONS 

Shop at grocery stores that offer reward points and coupons. Couponing 

doesn’t have to be time consuming, just watch for store brand offers as 

they are more likely to be discounted. 

HEALTHY SNACK IDEAS 

• Nutty cereal mix with seed + dried cranberries 

• Hard-boiled egg 

• Berries 

• Celery + almond butter 

• Banana 

• Rice Cakes 

• Kiwi 

• Apple + granola + cinnamon + greek yogurt 

• Mixed veggie bag + hummus 

• Apple + almond butter 

• Whole wheat crackers 

• Sunflower seeds (unsalted) 

• Low-Sugar protein bar 

• Popcorn 


TALKING SHOP 

WITH 

CLINT HARP 

By Brooke Hanson 

F 

or many of us, the first introduction to Clint Harp 

came from watching him create pieces for Fixer 

Upper from the screens of our living room. That’s 

where most have fallen for the down-to-earth, simple guy 

with the remarkable talent of wood working. Clint is a family 

man at heart. With wife Kelly, he has created a happy and 

full life around their 3 children: Hudson (9), Holland (7), 

and Camille (4). Harp spoke for many parents when he 

laughingly answered the question of what activities they 

like to do, “We are at the stage where it doesn’t matter if 

you have something you like to do, because there is always 

something else you have to do, like birthday parties.” 

When asked how he has stayed grounded while living 

the rare reality of his dream coming true he replied, “If I’m 

grounded at all, it’s because I grew up in a situation where it 

would have made sense for me to not make it in life.” He is 

a man who came from a loving family, yet not one of great 

financial means. The hard times in his life have never felt 

very far from him; they have served to drive him harder to 

accomplish his dreams. 

Clint credits his maternal grandfather and dad for the 

qualities we know him best for. Clint’s passion for working 

with his hands and woodworking was fostered by his 

grandfather. At an early age, Clint remembers being put 

to work on machines he claims he had no business working 

on. It seems his grandfather recognized the passion in his 

young grandson and knew the best way for it to develop 

was to let him dive right in. Clint’s dad passed on an ability to 

be comfortable standing in front of people or cameras, and 

modeled the importance of laughing and taking life lightly. 

Baylor brought Clint to Waco twice. He first came from 

Georgia as a college student on a “full loan”, then later 

moved back with his family for Kelly to earn a Master’s 

degree. This move accompanied the decision for Clint 

to pursue his dream of building furniture for a living. The 

Harps have lived various places to include Florida, the 

Netherlands, Paris, Dallas, and Houston, and appreciate the 

“small town with a bigger town feel” of Waco. Clint likes 

that people are moving to Waco to start small businesses. 

“That’s how a town grows; people move here because they 


Photographs by Molly Winn 

see potential.” In addition to being a Baylor Bears fan, his 

Georgia roots run deep. Clint claims when you are raised 

in the South as a Georgia Bulldog, taking family pictures in 

UGA jerseys, you are basically a Bulldog for life! 

Some things in life come full circle. In the first four months 

of the Harp family moving back to Waco, Clint volunteered 

full time at Habitat for Humanity. His grandmother’s work at 

the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library prompted his desire 

to volunteer for the organization. 

(Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter have 

been dedicated Habitat volunteers 

for more than 30 years.) That 

relationship led to renting and 

eventually purchasing the Harp 

Design workshop from Habitat. He 

continues to give back to Habitat 

through the donations of tables 

and other pieces created in the 

Harp workshop. 

The filming of the Fixer Upper 

pilot began soon after Clint 

began working with the Gaines. 

The natural friendship they have 

developed is evident in what fans 

see on TV. What started with a few 

original pieces built for Joanna has resulted in a thriving 

business, endorsement from Citizens Watch, a regular 

appearance on Fixer Upper, and now filming a show for the 

DIY Network called Wood Work. 

Harp Design’s employees have grown to around twentyfive 

now, including interns. The enjoyment of working 

there is partly due to everyday being a new project, task, 

or challenge. Clint appreciates waking up knowing he will 

“IF I’M GROUNDED AT 

ALL, IT’S BECAUSE I 

GREW UP IN A SITUATION 

WHERE IT WOULD HAVE 

MADE SENSE FOR ME TO 

NOT MAKE IT IN LIFE.” 

probably do something different than the day before. 

The workshop is located next door to their own beloved 

Fixer Upper. With approximately 25,000 people a week 

visiting Waco to take in the Magnolia Silos and more, living 

next door to their storefront became a little crazy. Clint 

considered having their house moved, before deciding to 

rent it on VRBO. Enthusiasts of Harp Design Co. and Fixer 

Upper now have another great option for Waco lodging! 

Harp’s fans are familiar with 

his mantra, “Love-Build-Run”, 

as something he truly takes to 

heart. Leading by example, Clint 

believes in being a loving person, 

finding joy in what you do, and 

fueling your body, spiritually and 

physically. Early in his life, Clint’s 

youth minister taught about 

three types of people: those 

who make things happen, those 

who watch things happen, and 

those that question, “What just 

happened?”. He also stressed to 

Clint the importance of integrity. 

Harp knows he won’t get it perfect 

every day, but tries to live up to it. 

Although life is a little different now, the Harps have 

stayed true to who they are. They want their furniture and 

home goods to look great in a Texas home or a New York 

loft; something they keep in mind as they push their designs 

further. They have expanded the storefront into an online 

store, where they also welcome special orders. For more 

information on Harp Designs Co., their vacation rental, or 

to shop their products visit www.harpdesignco.com. 


Flower Child 

PHOTO CONTEST 

Modern Texas Living presents the winners of the 2017 Flower Child Photo Contest. 

The early summer days of Central Texas are known for the blankets of wildflowers. 

Submitted by Shannon Shivers photo by iMamarazi Studios 

Blue Bonnet 

State flower of Texas 

Submitted by Kelsey Darby 

Illustrations by Rebekah Ely 

Many Texas families have participated in the 

annual roadside photo opportunity. 

Prickly Pear Cactus 

37 | moderntexasliving.com 

Designated the official plant symbol 

of Texas in 1995

Indian Paintbrush 

Grows in sandy soil from Northeast 

to Southwest Texas 

Submitted by Kristie Mason Photography

FEATURED 

BRING IT! 

THE BELL FAMILY ON 

FAITH AND FOOTBALL 

By Brandy Stoffel 

If you head West on Highway 6 out of Waco about 15 miles, a 

right turn on North River Crossing will take you into the growing 

town of China Spring. As you drive over the Bosque River at 

sunset, you can see the stadium lights of cougar country, where Head 

Football Coach and Athletic Director Mark Bell has been leading 

young men, including his two sons, for 21 years. 

“Bring It!” Mark tells his oldest son, Shawn, just before he takes 

the field as a sophomore quarterback for Baylor University in a 2004 

game against Texas A & M. The weight those two words must carry 

to a son from a father who has coached you, always: to trust your 

muscle memory, to scan the field, to keep your composure, to have 

faith in yourself, and God, for whatever the outcome. It’s overtime 

now, Shawn sees receiver Dominique Ziegler come open and throws 

the game-winning two-point conversion. Tears of joy streaming, 

Shawn looks to the Baylor stands for his dad, and mom Becca (Becky) 

Bell. “I don’t know how dad got down there [to the field] so fast; it 

was like 20 seconds.” Shawn laughs. “They tore the goal posts down 

that night, so I framed a piece for dad for Christmas.” 

Shawn, now 33, recently returned to Baylor as an offensive analyst 

under Head Football Coach Matt Rhule, while younger brother, Brian, 

26, joined their dad coaching at China Spring. Brian tells me he 

recently read Lead for God’s Sake. Author Todd Gongwer writes, “The 

best leaders’ legacies produce what Jesus called ‘good fruit,’ lived out 

through others way after they themselves have gone by the wayside.” 

I met the Bells at the Mayfields’ Photography studio for pictures 

and an interview on a humid spring day in China Spring. Chairs are 

scarce in the studio, and Brian asks the ladies in the room if they’d 

like to sit before he takes a seat. Small talk about bar-b-que is going 

around between us as pictures are taken, and Mrs. Bell reminisces 

about Southeastern Louisiana food while at a tailgate of one of Brian’s 

games as quarterback for Sam Houston State. Mr. and Mrs. Bell have 

never missed a game of either son in eight years of college football, 

not one game. “Dad would do whatever he had to do to make it, drive 

all night or take a 5 a.m. flight,” Brian says. They’ve been to games in 

Montana, even Canada. 


When Mark and Becca arrived in China Spring 21 years ago, the 

only restaurants were attached to gas stations, and the football field 

was more of a field in the traditional sense of the word. “You’d have 

to chase the chickens off the field.” Becca laughs. “We spent two 

years [on that field] and then the bond passed [and we got Cougar 

Stadium that we have now],” Mark adds with nostalgia across his 

understated smile. Why move here? 

Coach Bell graduated from Texas A & M in 1980, and after several 

years in other Texas towns, came to China Spring in ‘96 hoping he 

and Mrs. Bell could start again after tragedy, and provide a good 

education for their sons. The Bells lived in Clifton when they lost 

their 5 and half year-old daughter, Lindsay, in an accident. “Losing 

a daughter, you don’t ever think about having to bury your own 

child.” Becky wipes away welled-up tears from her blue eyes. Mark 

is sunk back on the velvet green couch, “We went to another town 

for a few years to get a new atmosphere. It just wasn’t healthy for 

us to stick around there [Clifton].” It would be two years later when 

they arrived in China Spring. “Our boys took her loss and did very 

positive things with it. Shawn [playing baseball at the time] would 

take his bat and draw her initials in the sand before games. Brian 

would write all our family initials on his hand with a marker.” From 

the edge of the couch, Becca adds, “It was hard on our family, but 

we became closer. When you’re a believer, it’s the hope that it’s just 

a separation.” Mark admits it tested his faith. “Becky read so many 

books on heaven. I was the opposite. I got mad at God. What did 

this little 5 and half year-old girl do to deserve this?” While Becca 

turned to God for more strength, and prayed more, Mark required 

more time to turn his faith around again. “Professional Christian 

counseling helped [me] to learn you have certain fears in your life, 

and you have to recognize them. I had the fear of pain. I didn’t want 

to deal with it again.” Becca, still on the edge of the couch cushion, 

responds with resignation, “You have to let it make you stronger, or 

it will kill you.” Mark took Becky on a trip to San Diego a few years 

ago, where they attended service at the church of one of Becca’s 


Photos by Mayfield Fine Photography 

favorite Christian authors, Pastor David Jeremiah (father of former 

college quarterback, and current NFL Network analyst, Daniel 

Jeremiah). In Pastor Jeremiah’s words, “Through prayer and trust, 

God enables us to stand strong in the midst of our greatest trials.” 

If there is any doubt that Mark Bell found a home and a calling 

in China Spring football, he puts that to rest. “Being a head football 

coach in this community is about family. It has allowed me to [be 

there for my boys]. You get to stay there for 21 years. China Spring 

is home for us.” Becca adds, proudly, “He would have parent duty 

after school, and the boys loved to hang out during practice.” 

There’s no lack of admiration for the extended family of the 

school district, either. When Mark had heart surgery in May of 

2016, he missed a week of work. “Probably the first time I’ve done 

that. Everyone from the Superintendent to the nurse stepped in.” 

Perhaps foreshadowing China Spring’s future football leadership, 

Mark adds “Brian stepped in and took more responsibility.” 

Raising boys eight years apart proved positive for the boys’ 

healthy competitive spirit. “Brian got to experience his brother’s 

successes, watch him, and not be in conflict with it,” Becca 

explains. “Shawn became a big fan 

were in the hospital, sometimes different hospitals [for specialists].” 

Brian, sitting in a chair adjacent to the couch cocooning the rest 

of his family, adds, “We spent Christmas at Pappadeaux’s across 

from the hospital.” The whole family nods in bittersweet memory 

together. In recognizing that his perspective for his own children, 

including recently born daughter, Saydi, translates to the students 

Shawn will coach at Baylor, he says he will model expectations. 

“If I say you have to do something, then I have to do that.” Brian 

elaborates, “It’s hard for kids to understand why they have to run 

every day, or wear a uniform, if you aren’t doing that [too].” Shawn 

confirms Coach Rhule leads this way too. “He’s a first-class guy. He 

will demand the most out of our players and will lead by example 

in the way he works.” 

So how does what you model for a daughter differ from what 

you model for boys? “I hope I can model to her what her husband 

will be for her: the love I show my wife, that she will want that 

someday. That’s my goal as a dad to a daughter. I’m only 2 weeks 

in.” Shawn smiles. 

While Saydi has recently captured the hearts of the Bell 

family, Brian reports no other leading 

of Brian. He came in on Thursdays to 

ladies, for now. From financially 

watch Brian’s high school games while 

he was at Baylor.” Competition was 

still strong, though. “We were active 

growing up. We had Easter Olympics, 

and we’d have to complete obstacles,” 

Shawn says. “I would time them to go 

responsible, to focused on faith and 

family, his attributes paint the picture 

of an eligible Central Texas bachelor. 

Before joining his dad in coaching 

at China Spring, Brian was a coach 

and a teacher in Magnolia ISD, and 

get the mail. I just wanted the mail,” 

adds Mark with a grin. “I use to beg 

Shawn to let Brian win, just once. He 

never would.” Brian quickly retorts, 

“That’s not a problem now.” 

Shawn has two boys of his own 

now, twins Braxton and Cannon. “They 

are so opposite. [They want] different 

color cups, plates, things to eat.” 

YOU HAVE TO LET IT 

MAKE YOU STRONGER, 

OR IT WILL KILL YOU. 

a graduate assistant for the football 

team at Georgia Southern University. 

China Spring last played in the state 

championship game in 2007 (3A, 

District 2), but Brian is no stranger to 

being an underdog. Referred to in his 

college player profile as “Bearkats’ 

all-time ‘winningest’ quarterback”, he 

advanced the 2012 underdog team to 

While healthy competition may lead to successful sports players, the NCAA Division I Championship game. “We lost, and that hurt, 

Shawn makes it clear that’s not the priority for his sons. “Like dad but being on the road traveling with the team that year was fun.” 

always told me, it’s not how many games you win, but what kind of When he isn’t coaching, Brian enjoys golf, hunting, and attending 

person you are. After all the NICU stuff, perspectives [are clear].” sports games. “If I’m watching something on TV, it’s probably 

Shawn and wife, Hali, almost lost their boys to prematurity. “At 18 sports related.” 

weeks, they told us they weren’t going to make it. I still wear my The southern gentle nature of these men can be attributed 

bracelet.” Shawn lowers his arm from the back of the couch and to Mrs. Bell. “Becky was the glue that held it all together,” says 

points to his blue bracelet with the verse Psalms 121:1-2. 

Mark, with a loving look to his wife. “I was really tough on our 

I lift up my eyes to the mountains— 

boys, probably too tough.” Becca says she prays her boys are 

Where does my help come from? 

“better men than athletes or coaches”. Brian recounts notes that 

My help comes from the LORD 

she would leave for him in the morning before school to let him 

The Maker of heaven and earth. 

know how proud she is. Shawn recalls a particular moment of 

“My wife created them. Dad still wears his, too.” Braxton feeling failure, “In third grade I didn’t make the creative writing 

and Cannon were born, during football season, at 27 weeks 2 team. I was in mom’s Astro van crying and she had the principal 

days, weighing under 3 lbs. Shawn begins listing surgeries and come talk to me. She would always say ‘God has a plan for you’.” 

complications they endured, one by one, heart, lung, brain, Her nature is calm, kind, and joyous. She wants her boys to be the 

in detail that reminds everyone in the room how fresh the pain spotlight. “I’m behind, but I enjoy making scrapbooks of all the 

remains, how deeply fear of loss scars a heart, especially those that boys’ years of football.” And how does Mrs. Bell characterize her 

know it well. “We were driving to Houston for the 130 days they relationship to football? “I’m married to it, a mother to it, and I 


“GOD HAS A PLAN FOR YOU.” 

love every minute of it. I really enjoy watching them do something 

that brings them a lot of joy.” Mark, clearly 

recognizing her sacrifice, adds “She has been 

in tough spots when your husband is the head 

coach and your son is the quarterback. She 

[also] learned when I say ‘a few minutes’ [til I’m 

home for dinner] that means two hours later.” 

These days, Mrs. Bell spends time with 

her grandkids, and is involved in Bible Study 

Fellowship (BSF). The verse she shares with 

me is from James, “Consider it pure joy, my 

brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of 

many kinds, because you know that the testing 

of your faith produces perseverance.” 

Persevere, so they have. “Becky can’t tell you 

how many times a season has ended and I say, ‘I can’t do this again, 

for the pain of the loss’.” Mark shifts in his seat, “It’s depressing 

closing a chapter with these kids, and all that work is over. It lasts 

about two days, though. The passion [keeps 

me motivated] to see how good a team can 

become, to see how we can go beyond talent.” 

Who coaches the coach? “I look up to our 

minister at Parkview Baptist Church; his wisdom 

is infinite. He’s like a father figure for me.” 

The verse from James continues, “Let 

perseverance finish its work so that you may be 

mature and complete, not lacking anything.” 

Mr. Bell talks of his grown sons, “I’m honored 

that these guys do what I do and see the value 

in coaching. These guys had a good life growing 

up in the coaching environment and having role 

models.” Shawn confirms his father’s legacy 

is strong. “I’ve always wanted to coach, there was nothing else I 

wanted to do. My boys wear whistles and want to coach.” 

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ON THE ROAD 


ON THE ROAD 

PLANNING FOR THE PERFECT 

ROAD TRIP 

By Jennifer Snyder, Certified Professional Organizer, 

Neat as a Pin Organizing Experts 

Few things are as fun as a road trip with your favorite 

people, and one of the best parts can be the 

spontaneity of jumping in the car and hitting the 

open road. For some of us, spontaneity is the draw, for 

others, the drawback. 

I am personally not of the mind that we should plan 

out every fuel or food stop. I think finding places without a 

website can be a real modern day adventure. I do, however, 

recommend some minor planning and creative packing to 

minimize inconveniences and maximize the fun! 

Take care of your vehicle 

This seemingly small task is the number one most important 

thing to do. If your car breaks down on the road, it will be 

an adventure, just not a good one. Change the oil, rotate 

the tires, and follow the manufacturer’s recommended 

maintenance and you are ready for the open road. A good 

detailing before departure is a thoughtful gesture, but not 

a deal-breaker if not completed. 

Pack for the road, not a summer abroad 

Packing is where even the best of us fall flat when traveling. 

Take one duffel bag and two hangers of hanging clothes 

per person. The exception would be going to a wedding or 

similar event requiring more formal clothes than a leisurely 

jaunt through the hill country. Start with shirts, taking one 

for each day you will be gone; add one coordinating bottom 

to every two tops. Include one set of fancier evening attire, 

one set of sleeping clothes, and a fresh set of underclothes 

for each day. 

Taking one pair of shoes along with a pair of flip-flops 

will make things easier for you. 

Even when traveling with children, the less you bring 

along, the more fun will happen. If you’re not willing to 

wing it with the wee ones, pack a travel game, or load the 

iPad with shows before you leave behind the download 

speed of your home internet. 

Go, see the country, and enjoy the journey! 

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Certified Professional Organizer 

Productivity Coach 

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Hitting the open road soon? Share what you’re packing with us on Instagram using #MTLmagontheroad.


HOW TO BUILD A 

SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORM 

Do you grow the juiciest tomatoes? Do you make the best pancakes? 

Do you craft the most creative holiday wreaths? 

Well, maybe your tomatoes are more coral in color 

than fire engine red and your pancakes are fluffy, 

but your syrup skills could use a little work. That 

doesn’t mean you shouldn’t start a lifestyle social media 

account to share your talents and tastes. 

Nowadays, when you scroll through your Instagram or 

Facebook feed, it seems that everyone is starting a travel 

blog or goes by DIY Diva. No need to be intimidated by what 

seems like perfect photos and detailed descriptions. It all 

takes time, strategy, and planning to develop the best brand. 

Whatever your passion is, dining at local restaurants, 

dancing, mixtapes or mixed drinks, you can start your own 

social media account with a few simple steps.

Establish a Theme & Audience 

Defining a theme and target-audience will help keep your brand on 

track. Will you have a blog or just Instagram pictures? What are your 

follower’s interests? These details can help with hashtag choices to 

gain future followers. 

Set Goals 

Social media for branding typically has three goals: build brand 

awareness, gain followers, and/or sell more products or services. Each 

month these three goals might move around in order of importance, 

but staying focused on these goals can grow your brand. 

Determine a Design & Voice 

The strength of social media is found in interesting photos that stand 

out in a busy newsfeed. Establish the design, filter choice, and voice to 

use in every post. This creates a brand foundation that your followers 

will recognize every time they open their social media app. 

Have Fun 

Social media was created as a space to create connections in an 

interactive way. Make sure the posts you publish are posts that would 

make you hit the “like” button. 

Take a chance on joining the world of influencers. 

You don’t have to be the best in your field to be 

an inspiration to future followers or even yourself. 

Want more social media tips or need 

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by Joanna Mayberry 

The moment Marshall Stewman stood at the cross roads 

of South 6th Street and Mary Avenue in Waco, he saw 

potential. He saw a large pecan tree situated perfectly 

beside the 11,000 square feet building, and a thriving Silo District 

just down the railroad tracks of Jackson Street. He envisioned a 

place where families could convene to enjoy a meal on the patio 

after shopping at Waco’s newest boutiques. Marshall had a hunch 

that two of his oldest friends, Peter Thyen and Cameron Goss, 

would share this vision for development in their hometown.

At a table for four in the historic downtown 

Praetorian building, just a block away from the nearly 

complete Mary Avenue Market, I sat down with 

the trifecta of development talent that is Deluge 

Holdings, LLC. Marshall, an ambitious businessman, 

managed properties and ventured in Dallas business 

with Peter, until Waco beckoned them home again. 

With Fixer-Upper fans flocking to Magnolia Market, 

the downtown area was experiencing exponential 

growth. Marshall had always felt that the downtown 

area had much to offer, but the risk of investment was 

too great. Finally, the time was right to make his way 

home. After discussions with Peter about numbers, 

Marshall called Cameron, owner of Bowen Electric 

in Waco, to consider handling construction of a 

development. Marshall closed on the property later 

dubbed Mary Ave Market in August 2016. 

The three friends display an easy, even enviable, 

relationship, with laid-back style and camaraderie that 

dates back to their time at Lake Air Middle School 

and Waco High playing baseball. With degrees 

from Texas A & M (Marshall ’04, Peter ’04) and 

Baylor (Cameron ’04, Marshall ’06), their individual 

strengths of vision, finance, and construction, prove a 

successful combination. Deluge Holdings managed 

to secure $294,000 in Tax Increment Financing 

Zone funds (public financing method used as a 

subsidy for community projects and infrastructure) 

in the development process. And while finding 

the right first tenant for the market was a fearful 

feat, the trio eventually found themselves turning 

businesses away. The learning process then began 

with the construction details for the new businesses 

moving in. What was expected to be the easiest 

part of the process proved most tedious in needing 

approval from the City Council on various changes 

to the building. Peace of mind came as approvals 

were given to incorporate the vision each tenant 

had for their occupied space. Mary Avenue Market, 

including tenants for gourmet Mexican cuisine and 

fine clothing, burgeoned into a quintessential plaza 

for Wacoans and tourists alike. 

Prospering in the first venture in Waco, Deluge 

Holdings is eager to start new projects in the 

downtown vicinity. The making of Mary Avenue 

Market may serve as an example of reciprocity 

between three Wacoans and the town that built them. 


We asked Marshall a few questions 

about starting a business in Waco: 

Photographs by Ashley Munn Photography 

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE OTHERS 

CONSIDERING BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT IN WACO? 

This is tough because motivation is different for everyone. The primary 

things I would suggest are to pick a great team and immediately begin 

taking persistent, massive action on your plan. There is no reason to 

reinvent the wheel, and by thoughtfully selecting the right team you get 

the benefit of their local experience and knowledge. Secondly, you will 

never have all of the answers, but I believe strongly in taking the first 

step. Fear of having a great idea that never comes to fruition due to my 

lack of action is a big motivator for me. 

WHAT MAKES FOR A SUCCESSFUL DOWNTOWN 

BUSINESS IN THE CURRENT WACO SCENE? 

I don’t think there is a right or wrong answer here. This was different a 

few years ago, but now I think Waco is ready for anything. I love seeing 

the mix of national brands and chains come to town [in addition to] the 

numerous local shops opening up. The culture is changing and I think 

it will thrive as entrepreneurs continue to push forward with their ideas 

and concepts. 

59 | moderntexasliving.com 

WHAT WERE KEY STRATEGIES AND RELATIONSHIPS IN 

DEVELOPING MARY AVENUE MARKET? 

Local banking relationships are very important to us and we are 

very lucky to have several amazing local banks in Waco. Central 

National Bank was an outstanding partner with us on this project. 

Chad Hanson was our real estate broker on the property acquisition, 

and Gregg Glime was the real estate broker responsible for leasing 

the property; both were instrumental in the process. Jacob Bell, 

with Walker Partners Engineering, was very helpful with all civil 

engineering work and assisting us in navigating the city process to 

re-zone and plat the property. Marcus Trimble was our architect and 

his design is ultimately what got us to where we are. Gregg’s leasing 

conversations became much easier as soon as we had Marcus’s 

conceptual rendering to show potential tenants. For construction, 

we utilized a lot of Cameron’s contractor connections and they were 

all outstanding to work with. We challenged them throughout the 

project with a demanding schedule and tight working confines; all 

performed at 100%, exceeding our expectations.


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COLLEGE LIFE 

IN WACO 

By Crista Lacqua 

It was 2014 and the summer preceding my sophomore 

year of college at Baylor University. My mother and I 

were shopping at Honey’s Home+Style, a small antique 

and home décor store located in Waco’s downtown district. 

We had done a lot of shopping and were starting to get 

hungry, so we asked the man who was working there, Jeff 

Rader, for suggestions on where to eat. A simple question 

slowly turned into a conversation about Waco’s history. I 

remember Jeff saying that in 20 years, Waco will become 

Austin. I stood there dumbfounded. Waco… to become 

Austin? There’s no way. Fast track three years later and oh 

boy, is Jeff still proving me wrong. 

Waco’s transformation seemed to have occurred within 

the blink of an eye and is a contributing reason for the 

growing population of college students who reside here. 

Perhaps what sparked the transformation was the 2015 

reopening of Chip and Joanna Gaines’ little shop on Bosque 

in downtown Waco, now known as Magnolia Market at the 

Silos. Each week people from all over flock to Magnolia 

to bask in the glory of Chip and Jo’s empire, as seen on 

their HGTV program, Fixer Upper. Late and sunny Saturday 

mornings at Magnolia are havens for college students who 

are free of the week’s obligations and are looking to shop 

or indulge in the delectable treats from the various food 

trucks offered there.

But sometimes the obligations of undergraduate life 

don’t always halt on weekends. From Magnolia, drive three 

minutes via 6th street to Dichotomy Coffee & Spirits, a 

coffee and cocktail shop with a “modern and vintage” feel 

to it. There, you can find students working while sipping on 

a cup of authentic Italian espresso. If eligible, some will be 

readily drinking Dichotomy’s famous craft cocktails, easing 

away the pressures that come along with academic life. 

Dichotomy isn’t the only cozy place where students 

bury their noses in laptops and books. Students frequent 

Pinewood Coffee Bar and Common Grounds too. Each 

shop carefully adheres to the college student running on 

no sleep, just as much as they tailor to his or her Instagram 

aesthetic needs. 

At Common Grounds, you will not only find lengthy 

conversations and studious minds, step outside to the 

backyard on any weekday evening, and there could be 

a solo indie artist performing, or a fraternity-sponsored 

charity event. 

But even for the music-loving college student, evenings 

can be spent elsewhere other than in Common Grounds’ 

backyard. You can spy groups of friends gallivanting along 

downtown Waco’s Austin Avenue, excitedly standing in line 

to get into bars like Halftime and Austin’s on the Avenue. 

Thursdays are the moneymaking days for both businesses, 

with students crowding whichever bar to see the usual 

college band perform hits ranging from ‘90s classics to 

more contemporary songs. 

Austin Avenue isn’t just for bars and music, it’s the center 

of Waco’s cultural attractions. Students have access to 

public art galleries, concerts from performers like Pat Green 

and Cody Johnson, a riverside-farmers market, and more. 

Film lovers can walk to the Hippodrome Theatre, one of 

the many buildings that give downtown an old-fashioned 

town flare. People can choose to watch a first run or classic 

movie while experiencing in-theater dining. 

The food selections on Austin Avenue expand much 

farther than the Hippodrome. Students can enjoy a 

barbecue restaurant like Coach’s or a dish of pasta at 

Portofino’s. Walk over to 5th street from Austin Avenue and 

you can catch students eating sandwiches from Schmaltz’s 

Sandwich Shoppe, a sandwich shop with the ultimate 

neighborhood feel and notable for their homemade bread 

and perfectly made garlic-butter. 

Just as much as we appreciate the cooking here in 

Waco, we appreciate Cameron Park, a 416-acre urban park 

that was established in 1910 and the home to Cameron 

Park Zoo. When the weather is nice, students love coming 

to the park for the multiple activities available. There 

are incredible biking and hiking trails as well as disc golf 

courses, all with breathtaking views of the Brazos River. 

The Brazos is another popular spot, and it’s common to see 

many people engaging in recreational water sports such as 

paddle boarding and kayaking. 

Besides all the restaurants and recreational activities, 

there is one that is memorable above all else: college 

football season. Baylor’s football stadium, McLane Stadium, 



special. There is a strong unison among all those rooting 

for Baylor. Game day is game day to each individual, 

whether an official Bear or friendly fan. 

If you had asked me seven years ago if I would move 

from New York City to Waco, Texas to attend college, 

I would have probably laughed. I was certain I wasn’t 

leaving the Tri-State Region, but coming to Waco has 

been one of the greatest decisions I have ever made. 

A college town should be one that’s enlightening yet 

comforting, and Waco is both. It’s a home away from 

home for many, with an unexplainable ease felt in the air. 

After all, maybe it’s no coincidence we attend college 

right in the heart of Texas. 

is filled with green, gold, cowboy boots and a crowd 

spirit like no other. When student fans aren’t in the stadium, 

you can find them “sailgating” on the Brazos, enjoying 

drinks and burgers at George’s Restaurant & Catering or 

downing an 18-inch pizza at Shorty’s Pizza Shack when the 

game is finished. 

With the building of McLane came even larger crowds 

at each game, but the passion from the fans was always 

there, and that’s what makes football season in Waco truly 

Crista Lacqua is a senior at 

Baylor, and a member of the 

Buttoned Bears. Buttoned is a 

fashion blog created by three 

Baylor women who wanted to 

spread the latest in fashion across 

the Baylor community. You can 

find more from Buttoned Bears, 

and their growing team, at 

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JANENE 

CROSSLEY 

STYLEGRAM 

Hi! I’m Janene. I was born and raised 

here in Texas. I’m the wife to my college 

sweetheart who has made me a mama to 4 

beautiful babes. I created Hello Ivory Rose 

blog and @janenecrossley on Instagram to 

share my raw experiences as a mom and my 

passions for fashion, fitness, and nutrition. 

But, Diet Coke and chocolate are my jam. 

HOW DO YOU STAY CURRENT WITH WHAT IS 

NEW OR IN STYLE AT THE MOMENT? 

Oooh. Well, I have a lot to catch up on now that my wardrobe 

selection has expanded from my tiny maternity section. I love 

receiving fashion blog posts from my favorite bloggers directly 

to my email! It cuts down on time spent scanning the internet 

for inspiration. 

WHERE DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION 

FOR YOUR POSTS? 

I like to share the sweetness that I catch through glimpses 

of our ordinary daily life. The moments I want to remember 

inspire my posts. Some of my inspiration stems from simply 

styling items from sponsored brands in the most authentic way 

my family would typically use them. 

HOW DO YOU RETAIN YOUR FOLLOWERS 

AND GET THEM TO INTERACT? 

As a whole, I think we all want to feel that we’re legit friends 

through our screens on social media. And real friends can see 

the up and down rollercoaster that life can throw at us. Being 

vulnerable to my followers through sharing both weaknesses 

and successes fosters a connection. People want to know 

the real person behind the post and that’s what I think is 

great about provoking questions at the end of posts and 

responding to comments. When I’m not able to respond to all 

the comments, I try to get to the last few! 

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE WAY TO STYLE BASICS? 

I have a fairly simple and feminine style as far as my clothing 

goes. I’m drawn to solids and stripes, and tons of textures like 

crochet, lace, or embroidered looks. I’ll pair simple outfits with 

pops of color in my accessories. I think having a great rotating 

set of accessories lets you keep up with trendy fashions 

without needing to replace your basic tees and jeans. And 

this is definitely how I dressed up my baby bumps. Whimsical 

jewelry, shades, lip color, and shoes were all I needed to feel a 

little more put together on rough pregnancy days. It remains 

the same now that I’m without a baby bump. Every girl needs 

a great pair of boyfriend jeans. They’re the perfect staple to 

pair with an oversized top to lounge around home or to dress 

up for a night out with cute block heels and a blouse. Being 

creative with accessories is my favorite way to style with new 

trends without sacrificing my comfort or budget. 

Follow Janene on Instagram 

@JANENECROSSLEY 


Instagram is a visual feast of pretty design, 

fashion, and style. From a trendy app to a 

network of millions, this social media platform 

connects us to celebrities, style icons and 

moms like Janene, who keep us coming back 

to see how she does it. 

mollywinnphotography.com 

418 South 8th Street 254.224.6893 

theyogabarwaco 

Clifton,Texas 

Fallfest 5K-10K 

OCTOBER 21, 2017 

Proceeds to ministries preventing human trafficking. 

the27project.org 

LOVE YOU. BE YOU. RADIATE YOU.


WHAT TO WEAR 

FAMILY PHOTOS 

One of the most difficult questions photographers get from clients is, “What should we wear?”. The 

answer is difficult because it depends on the season, the style of the family, the location, and the 

intended use of the photos. What looks good on your holiday card may not match your living room 

décor for a framed family photo. While the answer is different for each family session, consider these 

tips to plan a stress-free photo session this fall. 

1. 

Denim and blush 

pink are on 

trend this year. 

Blush provides a 

feminine accent 

to casual denim; 

perfect for families 

who love a soft 

pop of color! 


2. 

Choose a neutral, tone on tone color 

palette to highlight faces and give 

photos a clean and classic vibe. 

3. 

Find practical yet stylish 

shoes for kids so they 

can wear them long 

after photos are over! 

1401 S 31st Suite A | Temple, TX 76504 | 254-770-0511 

www.calliesboutique.com 

/CalliesTemple @calliesboutique 

Also find us at The Hub in Downtown Temple


4. 

Tan and grey are great 

colors for fall photos, but will 

continue to look good all year 

long framed on your walls! 

Visit Artifact Uprising 

(www.artifactuprising.com) 

for eco-friendly, inspiring 

print options. 

5. 

Stripes and bold plaids look great in 

person but often don’t photograph well. 

Stick to solids for the best results! 

W E D D I N G S 

M A T E R N I T Y 

G R A D U A T E S 

F A M I L I E S 

2 5 4 . 4 0 5 . 4 2 6 8 

C A S E Y N Y S T R O M . C O M

SHOPS and CAFE 

SIRONIA.WACO 

SHOPSIRONIA

SHE SAYS 

Kate Holcomb 

Balancing it All 

Kate Holcomb is a Business Growth 

Consultant at KXXV- News Channel 25-ABC, 

and specializes in Television & Digital Sales. 

I’ve been with KXXV for 6 years. I have a 

wonderful husband, Corey, and precious little 

boy, John Michael, who is 2 years old. Let’s 

get real: ‘sales’ is tough! But, it is so fun for 

me, and beyond rewarding when I close 

that deal! I think anyone in sales can 

relate to that gratifying feeling. 

While sales can be exciting, it 

can also be very stressful. I have been a working mother for 

a little over two years, and just like many working mothers 

out there, it comes with much guilt. Having a supportive 

husband, and mother who keeps my son on Fridays and 

before and after a Parents’ Day Out program, helps ease 

my mind greatly. To say “I’m blessed” is an understatement. 

One key to keeping my life in balance is learning to say 

“no”.I’m a huge people pleaser, and want everyone to 

like me. Become a mother, they say, and you’ll get over 

that quick! While it’s definitely something I still struggle 

with at times, another key is finding something you love, 

something that is for you and brings you joy. For me, that’s 

cooking! I love to cook for my family and friends! There is 

just something about preparing a home cooked meal from 

scratch, with my hands, that feeds my soul. I encourage all 

working mothers out there to take time for yourself. Find 

what restores you, and commit to it regularly! While sales is 

my gift, cooking is my passion and it truly helps balance the 

daily stresses for this working mother! 


Favorite sales book 

I’ve been semi forced to read several over the years, and while I 

can’t say I have a favorite, I can say I have a favorite quote that I use 

frequently while helping clients spend their advertising dollars wisely: 

“Concentration is the key to all economic results.” - Peter Drucker, 

(1909-2005). I love this quote, because it translates beautifully into my 

personal life. 

Favorite meal to cook 

One of my biggest hits with friends and family is my homemade 

chicken pot-pie! But, don’t ask me how I make it, because I suddenly 

forgot. In all seriousness, I don’t use recipes when I cook. I love to just 

be inspired by cooking shows or Pinterest, and get in the kitchen and 

do my own thing! 

Favorite thing in your kitchen 

Double oven. Someday I will definitely have a pot filler. Who doesn’t want 

a pot filler on their stove?! 

Favorite quote 

Two of my favorites are “Give credit where credit is due” and “The day 

we stop learning, is the day we die”. Another one I like is from Christian 

author Jen Hatmaker, “God measures our entire existence by only two 

things: how we love Him and how we love people.” Something I have 

learned over time, is that no matter how someone thinks, feels, or treats 

you, just be kind. Just love them. That’s all God calls us to do. It is much 

easier said than done, but when you can get that down, I think you are 

pretty close to pure happiness. 

Summer Hours Brickwood Boutique 

Tuesday-Saturday 10a.m.-6p.m. 

Open on Monday’s again after Labor Day! 7410 W. Adams Ave • Ste 170 

Temple, TX 76502

SHE SAYS 

FOR KID SPACES 

Kid spaces are often the most difficult to decorate, but they can 

also be the most fun with these quick tips from designers! 

Keep it simple! 

Tip #1 

Kids often have a lot of things and only one 

room to put them in. The more decor you have, 

the more cluttered it will feel. They also make 

clean up a breeze! 


Mix it up! 

Mix wooden toys and stuffed animals with a curated color 

palette and beautiful furniture. This will keep the overall 

design sophisticated with a child-friendly aesthetic. 

Paint a Mural! 

Painting a simple wall mural is an inexpensive 

way to create visual interest. Children love 

feeling like they are high in the mountain 

tops, under the sea, or among the blooming 

flowers. Don’t have that artistic gene? No 

problem! Wallpaper has come a long way 

since Grandma filled every room with floral 

prints. You can now easily apply and remove 

peel and stick wallpaper! 

Storage! 

Tip #4 

Even if you don’t need a lot of drawer space for 

clothes, nightstands and dressers serve a dual 

purpose as a surface for decor and storage for 

toys and books. 

Think outside the box! 

When it comes to open storage, think outside the box. Use a vintage wagon or animal feeder to house books. 

Floor baskets hold stuffed animals and a storage ottoman at the foot of a bed is a great place for toys.

5 WEEK SUMMER CLASSES Ages 1-6 

July 10-August 11 

PRINCESS CAMPS Ages 3-6 

10 a.m.-noon • Session 1: July 10-14 

Session 2: July 24-28, Session 3: July 31-August 4 

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10 a.m.-2 p.m. • July 14-18 

BROADWAY BOUND CAMP Grades 2-8 

2 p.m.-4 p.m. • July 24-28 

2 Locations | 7560 Bosque Blvd | 6714 Woodway Dr. | Waco 

254.776.1797 

2449 N. Main | Belton | 254.933.7101 

We specialize in sandwiches and baked from 

scratch desserts. We provide cakes, cookie 

cakes, cheesecakes, pies and anything else you 

can think of! We are also able to make vegan, 

sugar-free and gluten-free desserts! 

sweetconfectionscafe.com 

Monogramming 

Clothing 

Holiday Decor 

Embroidery 

Baby Gifts 

and much more! 

254.770.0904 | 1401 South 31st. St | Temple, Texas 76504 | ZootysofTemple.com

HE SAYS 


CHRIS ANDERSON 

PHOTOGRAPHING THE 

WILD 

Most days, Chris Anderson operates his family owned business, Smoot-Anderson Co, in 

Waco, Texas. On an extraordinary day, he captures wildlife in brilliant photography in places 

as far as Katmai National Park, on the southern coast of Alaska. 

Chris has a variety of photographic work in forums 

to include Big 12 football and baseball, City of 

Waco, Lake Waco Wetlands Project, and Waco 

Today. But the wildlife photography is possibly the most 

inspiring. “I am still trying to take an incredible image; I 

want to capture something different, never seen before.” 

Anderson said. He particularly enjoys photographing 

Grizzly Bears and wolves. “I just can’t get enough of 

them.” One of Chris’s wolf images earned the July 

2016 cover of Alaska Magazine. He was also the grand 

prize winner of the Canon Photography in the Parks 

Contest in 2006 and 2007. Perhaps recognizing his 

unbeatable talent, Canon changed the rules after that 

so Chris couldn’t enter again for two years. 


Pursuing wild animals does come with risk. “I’ve been 

charged by bears numerous times.” Chris warned as he 

continued with a story of a close call, “I was sitting on the 

tidal flats in Alaska one evening photographing two cubs 

and a sow. One cub stuck close to mom, but the other 

was interested in me and what I was doing. It kept getting 

closer and closer until it was about five or six feet away 

and I had to stand up. I was trying to talk to it so it would 

move back, but this didn’t make mom very happy and she 

approached huffing and popping her jaw. Luckily, the cub 

ran to her after hearing her. That is the closest I’ve come 

to having to use a flare on a bear.”

CHRIS ANDERSON 

Chris caught the “bug” for photographing wildlife on a road trip to Colorado 

in 2001, and began a yearly trip to Yellowstone. In 2004, he added a regular visit 

to Alaska. For new photographers interested in wildlife, Anderson recommends not 

getting caught up in megapixels. “Spend the money for the best glass you can afford. 

Learn to use your camera and don’t rely on Photoshop to fix everything.” He also 

strongly suggests not pushing the animals too far; an attack is a hefty price to pay. 



KEEP THE 

Faith 

By Becca Bell 

It was a Wednesday in February 2016, and I woke up 

feeling a little sorry for myself. I had been praying 

for some specific things in our family, and I had just 

found out earlier that week that one prayer was not going 

to be answered in the way that I wanted. Doubt, fear, and 

disappointment began to fill my head. 

My class at Bible Study Fellowship was supposed 

to volunteer in the children’s program on this day, and I 

thought about not even going. We weren’t going to have 

our regular class so why not just stay home and continue 

feeding my negative thoughts? 

I grudgingly got ready and drove to the host church 

of Bible Study Fellowship, Highland Baptist Church. I 

checked in at the Children’s area and got my assignment 

for the morning – 4 year olds. 

A sense of peace and joy took the place of all my 

negative thoughts as I interacted with the boys and girls. 

The Children’s Leaders demonstrated such love of Jesus to 

those sweet children. It was a great morning. 

At the end of class, one of the leaders gave me three 

books to read to the children while they got ready for 

dismissal. As I sat down, a little girl brought me a book and 

asked me if I would read it, too. I told her I would try to 

read it if there was time. 

After I read one of the books the leader gave me, I 

felt very strongly that I should read the book the little girl 

brought to me. So…I took the book, read the title, and 

opened it to the title page. There, written in my very own 

handwriting, was the name of my daughter, Lindsay Bell. 

You see, my daughter died in May 1993 at the age of 5½. 

I can’t explain the rush of emotion that overtook me. 

This was one of my daughter’s books that somehow made 

it to that church, in that classroom, on that day, at that very 

moment for a little girl to bring it to me to read. I had to 

excuse myself from the classroom and ask God to forgive 

me for doubting His plan for our family. 

What a powerful lesson this taught me. Had I not shown 

up to volunteer in the children’s program that day, I would 

have missed God showing up for me. He wanted me to 

know that He loves me, He hears me, and His plans are so 

much better than mine. In fact, that prayer that I prayed 

back in February 2016 was answered in December 2016. It 

was over and above anything that I could have prayed for. 

God’s plan and timing are perfect!

LET US SERVE YOU DURING 

YOUR REAL ESTATE PROCESS 

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M A G N O L I A REA L T Y . C O M | 254-218-5940


Finding 

LOVE 

Later in Life 

BY LORI PENNINGTON MATHIS 

I was 48 when I met Jeff, and 49 when we married. I’ve learned great things from the past 

relationships (long and short) I’ve enjoyed. Perhaps the most important, though, is that when my 

father, a retired Colonel, says “Lori Elizabeth, we want you to understand we like Jeff immediately 

and that young man is going to marry you.”, that it is probably true. 

I’m your classic type A career chick. I’ve had a pretty awesome 20 + year gig in consumer 

technology working in the marketing space for HP and Dell. With the resume came incredible 

circles of friends, travel, experiences and opportunities. As a woman, we go through many things; 

I often think over my years and find myself feeling like a piece of gold that was being perfected 

by a goldsmith. With each relationship, each career advance, each setback, every relocation, that 

goldsmith would toss me back in the fire and keep molding me into the woman Jeff connected 

with on my patio on May 4, 2016, and the woman that is now his wife. 


Family is always first for me. I have two nieces that lived with 

me from the time they were about 18 – 27. These nieces and I 

have a tradition – when I come home from weekly business trips, 

we get together on my patio (no matter how tired I am) and 

enjoy a glass (or two or three) of wine and some great music, 

and catch up on each other’s week. Lori LeAnn (name sake) had 

been talking up this new “neighbor” of hers “Jeff” for about 3 

weeks and asking if he could come over for patio time, and I 

kept blowing her off. Finally, after a really long week in New York 

City, I was worn down enough. 

I had on cut-off 501 Levi shorts and a dang Wonder Woman 

T-shirt, and I relented, “FINE, tell him to come over.” It was 

likely 9 p.m., and the next thing I know I see this huge black 

suburban with a personalized plate “EZGO1” pull sideways 

into my driveway like he owns it and out walks this tall man 

in some wild looking shorts, knee socks, glasses, and mismatched 

shirt. I think, he looks like Clark Kent. And it popped 

right out of my mouth… “I thought I was meeting a guy named 

Jeff; you look like Clark Kent.” And he has this huge beautiful 


smile, and at 48, I’m thinking ‘oh my goodness, this guy is going to be interesting’. 

I walk him inside and give him the ground rules, “I’ll make you a drink once. After 

that, please don’t expect service; I like guests to feel at home.” We talked and 

laughed that night, exchanged a bit about each other, and when you talk to Jeff 

about his feelings he will tell you, “I was done from the minute I saw Lori; she was 

my one.” The next day, around noon, Jeff showed up (unannounced) with flowers 

just to leave at my door. He got caught. I was walking out of the door with my 

pups. Then Sunday around 5, again, he popped up with “Sunday flowers” and I 

invited him in. I knew at that moment I was giving Jeff his chance. I had not given 

anyone a chance in over 6 years. My heart was fully open to Jeff. He courted me 

for two weeks before we went on our first date. And there are some great stories 

within those two weeks: 

He asked me over Facebook messenger to go away and play golf the first week 

I met him. I turned him down and told him if he wanted to date me, it needed to 

be in Waco. In addition, I had my own plans that weekend. Also, he might want to 

figure out how to get my phone number and call me. 

The second Tuesday after we met, it was pouring rain and my mailbox had 

been taken out by the trash truck. Late afternoon, I looked up from my desk and 

I saw 2 things: Jeff’s EZGO1 pulling up with a golf cart in tow, and Jeff getting out 

carrying a new mailbox. That was the day I got butterflies. That was the day that 

giving Jeff a chance turned into falling for Jeff. That is also the day he asked me 

on our first date (in Waco). 

Today, as a married couple, Jeff is my “family first”. He’s the leader of my family 

and he’s my best friend. He’s the spiritual leader of our household and a huge part 

of our community. Jeff and I have to work daily to stay in lock step. I am confident 

that is a maturity thing. It’s not easy; there are days we are not in sync and it stinks. 

And when it happens, it can take an entire weekend to re-group and re-connect. 

But the gift I bring forward into my marriage, from years of being independent and 

knowing myself, is the ability to “shift”. Jeff and I are both incredibly independent 

individuals and pretty big personalities. But, I know when to sit back and trust Jeff – 

shift from Lori the career woman and leader to Lori Jeff’s wife. The really awesome 

thing is that Jeff respects when he needs to shift and allow me to lead at the right 

time as well. We respect each other’s strengths and play to them. 

We have so many great things going on together. Currently, we’re settling 

into a beautiful new home in Woodway, Texas, and learning how to manage things 

like pools, fountains, and lots of jasmine. We are re-homing a 9-month-old white 

standard poodle to be a little brother to our older standard poodle, R.J. We are 

busy with community fund raisers for local charities (Fuzzy Friends, Wade Bowen 

Foundation, and Meals on Wheels). Jeff is President of C & M Golf and Grounds 

Equipment, and with my background in marketing, we are toying with the idea 

of expansion in the Waco area in a few years. Every once in a while, Jeff and I 

collaborate on marketing ideas. And we would be remiss not to mention our 

upcoming season of Baylor Bears football: it’s a very important time of year in Waco. 

The biggest blessing Jeff and I have is our family. Jeff’s parents are incredible. Jeff 

has two awesome children (16 & 13) and I have my nieces, nephews, sister, brother, 

and father. We all come together as a family and it feels like home. It happened 

just like breathing; we could not be happier. 


“ ” 

I had not given anyone a chance in over 6 years. 

My heart was fully open to Jeff. 



FEAR IS LIKE 

A PRISON, IT 

HOLDS US BACK 

FROM MAKING 

LIFE-CHANGING 

DECISIONS.

FACING FEAR 

DIVORCE LATE IN LIFE 

By Jill Pinkham Nelson 

F 

ear is a powerful emotion. I alternated for many 

years between wrestling with it and trying to ignore 

it. Then, on February 3, 2016, I faced my fear, 

hoping it wouldn’t lead to what I knew it very well could— 

the end of a very long marriage. 

How could divorce possibly happen to me? How 

could I have to start fresh at my age? How would I have 

the strength to travel that road? 

How would I make it financially? 

I hadn’t been involved enough in the finances to 

even know what they really were. I hadn’t had a checking 

account of my own since 1981. I had never gotten a loan 

on my own, dealt with car maintenance on my own, or 

ever lived by myself. I had zero experience with attorneys 

or legal matters. I just didn’t have the confidence to take 

such a huge step. 

I dreaded telling my family and friends, many of 

whom I knew would be completely shocked. I dreaded 

telling my church family. There was so much to fear. 

I knew God hated divorce. I also knew he would allow 

me to choose it and take the fear from me—if I allowed 

it. And so, my journey began. It wasn’t easy. At times it 

still isn’t. 

When I walked out of the courthouse on September 

2, 2016, the day before my 56th birthday, I had just said 

“I don’t” 34 years, one week, and five days after saying 

“I do.” Although I felt a sense of freedom and relief, I 

realized right away that I had grossly underestimated the 

emotional toll a divorce would take. 

I was a hot mess and I knew it. 

I quickly joined a Divorce Care group through a local 

church. I needed to heal, and I needed to be around 

people walking in the same shoes I was walking in. I’m still 

attending this group, now for the third time, and if I need 

to repeat it ten more times then that’s what I will do. 

I was inspired by the movie War Room to turn an 

empty closet in my house into my own war room. I’ve 

gotten real with God in that closet, and sometimes loud, 

too. My 13-year old pit bull can attest to that. She once 

stood outside the shut closet door, with me inside, and 

wailed at the top of her lungs. The thing is, my dog is 

completely deaf. Go figure. 

If I could go back, I’d do a lot of things differently— 

in my marriage, during the divorce process, and postdivorce 

as well. I’ve made plenty of mistakes, but I have 

learned from them. 

I learned that forgiveness is a choice and not always 

a feeling. Some days I feel it, some days I don’t. It’s a 

process. I had to ask for forgiveness also. I don’t profess 

to have done everything perfectly. 

It’s been almost a year since my divorce was final, and 

I’ve discovered some truths about myself since then. I am 

far more thankful for what I have now than before. I am 

more capable than I once thought I was. I like my own 

company and am perfectly content to live alone. 

My divorce forced me into a place of total dependence 

on God, a place I admit I was never in before. That is, by 

far, the most positive outcome of the whole experience. 

Looking forward with hope is far better than standing 

still with fear or looking back with regret. I’m a work in 

progress, but excited about my future in a way I never 

could have imagined. 

Fear is like a prison. It holds us back from making lifechanging 

decisions, whether it’s a career change, moving 

to a new area, or anything else. It keeps us stuck. It keeps 

us from asking and trusting the direction we should go. 

I learned through Divorce Care that forgiveness is 

like a book you have to keep checking out over and over. 

Dealing with fear and handing it over is the same. Once 

it’s gone, though, all things are possible. 

MODERN TEXAS LIVING | 96 



A 

WARRIOR’S 

BATTLE 

By Lorna Hering 

W 

hen our kids were little, they wanted to know why we left home every morning 

and what we did all day. We explained to them that I was an English teacher 

and that Jimmy was a lawyer. Ryan, Rhett, and Mara were satisfied with that 

answer, but our middle son Rhett misunderstood Jimmy’s job description. He had no idea 

what a “lawyer” was, so he assumed we were saying “warrior.” He was so proud that his 

dad was a “warrior,” and he began saying that he wanted to be a warrior when he grew up 

too! We thought it was cute when he made that innocent statement. 

But maybe Rhett knew something we didn’t know, because Rhett indeed became a 

warrior. In his short fifteen years, he fought for justice. He battled for acceptance for his peers. 

He fought for kindness and protected the underdog. His battle cry was love and his weapon 

of choice was joy and laughter. He never backed down from a worthwhile challenge. Rhett’s 

earthly life ended on December 28, 2015. The tragic events of that day waged a war on my 

heart as his mother, but I have no doubt that Rhett is now a warrior in Heaven with Jesus. 


“HIS BATTLE CRY WAS 

LOVE AND HIS WEAPON 

OF CHOICE WAS JOY 

AND LAUGHTER.” 

As a mother, losing a healthy child in a tragic accident launched me into a fierce battle. 

There is something so devastating about burying a child that was once in your womb. I used 

to think you got to “pick your battles,” but I’m not that naive anymore. I would never have 

chosen this battle. The tour of duty for a bereaved mother is not for the weak. There is no 

“warrior” training for a catastrophic war of this magnitude. 

Instead of a battle cry, I cried over the battle of losing Rhett. I have wanted to surrender 

to the overwhelming grief on many occasions. Despair, bitterness, loneliness and fear are 

my constant enemies, and they are strategically placed on the battlefield. I have to armor 

up daily to face those battles. Being a warrior is hard work; it’s not easy to choose faith and 

hope when you are brutally wounded. I wish that being a “warrior” came as easy for me 

as it did for Rhett. My husband and children have all proven to be tough warriors. They 

courageously battle the brokenness and strive daily to live 

with love and honor for their favorite warrior. 

Rhett’s untimely death prevented him from growing 

up, but it did not keep him from being the warrior he was 

destined to be. My battle cry now is that I can become 

the warrior that I was destined to be. In reality, we are all 

warriors facing battles in this game called life, and our only 

hope for victory is that Jesus is willing to fight for each 

of us. As I continue to struggle and grow on this journey 

through grief, I find myself saying the same thing Rhett did 

whenever he was little. . . “I want to be a warrior when I 

grow up too!” 

Lorna Hering and son, Rhett Hering 


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