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A Cozy Solo Thanksgiving Feast (With Keto-Friendly Options!)
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…
Easy Summer Entertaining for Seniors: Hosting Without the Hassle
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…
5 Things I’m Loving This April: From Clean Slates to Simple Joys
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…
Texas Hill Country: Some of My Favorite Places
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…
Red Wine Tasting with an Aroma Kit: A Fun-Filled Evening at The 83 Winery
Have you ever tried to identify the subtle aromas in a glass of red wine? At a recent event at The 83 Winery, we took wine tasting to the next level using a red wine aroma kit—and it turned out to be a huge hit! The Aroma Adventure Begins I’ve always wished I had a better nose for wine. I know what I like and can often tell a particular varietal by smell but have never been able to identify individual aromas. I was aware of aroma kits so when I saw one on Amazon, I decided to give it a try. When I got it, it started out just for me, then to share with a friend, then with a group of friends. Before…