Am I Really a Cowgirl?

A woman holding the lead rope to a palomino horse with text that says Am I Really a Cowgirl?

I’ve wondered more than once whether I have any business calling myself a cowgirl. I’ve owned horses for much of my life—a lot of horses over the years, in fact. I’ve ridden countless miles, cared for them, worried over them, learned from them and built a good part of my life around them. But I’ve never been what most people probably picture when they hear the word cowgirl. I’ve never worked cattle for a living. I’ve never been a rodeo cowgirl. I’ve never shown horses. I’ve sorted cattle on rare occasions, but nobody was ever going to mistake me for someone who spent her days horseback on a working ranch. So why Golden Country Cowgirl? Somewhere along the way, I decided that cowgirl didn’t have…

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A Cozy Solo Thanksgiving Feast (With Keto-Friendly Options!)

Braised beef short ribs on a bed of mashed cauliflower - the star of a keto friendly solo Thanksgiving feast

Sometimes the most memorable holidays are the quiet ones. If you’re celebrating Thanksgiving solo this year—or you just want to treat yourself to something cozy and delicious—you absolutely can create a meal that feels special, intentional, and totally indulgent without going overboard. Here’s my plan for this year’s solo Thanksgiving feast. I’m not a turkey girl (never have been!), and with beef prices sky-high this year I briefly thought I’d have to rethink my usual plan. But then I remembered one of my all-time favorite comfort foods: braised short ribs. Rich, tender, deeply flavorful, and perfect for a smaller holiday table. This year’s menu is simple, comforting, and festive… with both a regular and keto/low-carb version of each dish so you can choose what fits…

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Easy Summer Entertaining for Seniors: Hosting Without the Hassle

A small group of senior women enjoying a cozy summer evening on a porch with glasses of wine and simple snacks, highlighting easy summer entertaining for seniors.

When the summer sun starts heating up, the last thing most of us want to do is spend hours cooking in a hot kitchen or prepping a fancy gathering. But that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy a little summertime magic—especially when it comes to sharing food, wine, and good conversation. As we get older, we start to realize that entertaining doesn’t have to be elaborate to be meaningful. In fact, some of the most memorable get-togethers I’ve had were the simplest: a friend on the porch, a glass of wine in hand, a light breeze cutting the heat. Whether you’re planning a casual evening for two or just want to treat yourself, summer is the perfect time to slow down and savor. Here’s how to…

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5 Things I’m Loving This April: From Clean Slates to Simple Joys

An Apple iPad with text on the screen that says 5 Things I'm Loving This April.

This past month has been a rollercoaster. After the recent floods here in South Texas, my yard—and honestly, my mood—felt heavy with dirt, debris, and general overwhelm. It’s wild how much your environment can affect how you feel. But now that the mess is mostly cleared and repairs are nearly done, I’m starting to feel like myself again. Everything looks brighter. Smells cleaner. The sunshine feels a little warmer. And in that spirit of fresh starts, I thought I’d share a few simple things that have brought me joy lately—nothing fancy, just little reminders that life is still good. 🌞 1. My New Cooling Towel (A Must-Have for Outdoor Work) The weather’s already starting to heat up here in South Texas, and working with the…

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Texas Hill Country: Some of My Favorite Places

A road meanders through rolling hill next to a sign that says Wine Road 290. Text overlay says Best of Texas Hill Country.

Must-Visit Destinations for Your Next Adventure The Texas Hill Country is a place where natural beauty, rich history, and small-town charm come together to create unforgettable adventures. With its rolling hills, winding rivers, and vibrant wildflower blooms, this region offers a perfect escape for anyone craving scenic landscapes, outdoor fun, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply someone who enjoys exploring hidden gems, there’s something here for everyone. As a solo traveler and senior adventurer, I’ve spent a fair amount of time discovering the best that Texas Hill Country has to offer. From the iconic towns of Fredericksburg and Johnson City to peaceful nature reserves and unique attractions, this guide rounds up my favorite places to visit—along with insider…

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