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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Red Wine Tasting with an Aroma Kit: A Fun-Filled Evening at The 83 Winery

Close-up of red wine aroma kit vials and a wine tasting sheet used during a wine tasting event 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…

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St. Patrick’s Day: History, Traditions and a Delicious Feast to Celebrate

A traditional St. Patrick's Day feast with text that says How Will You Celebrate St. Patrick's Day?

St. Patrick’s Day is more than just wearing green and attending parades—it’s a celebration of Irish culture and heritage that has evolved over centuries. From its origins as a religious feast to its modern-day festivities, this holiday is embraced worldwide. In this guide, you’ll learn about St. Patrick’s Day history, how it’s celebrated today, and how to prepare a traditional Irish feast to mark the occasion. The History of St. Patrick’s Day St. Patrick’s Day, celebrated annually on March 17th, honors St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. Born in Roman Britain in the late 4th century, Patrick was kidnapped by Irish raiders and enslaved in Ireland as a teenager. He eventually escaped, but later returned as a Christian missionary to convert the Irish people.…

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Lavender Farms in Texas Hill Country: Where to See the Best Blooms

A beautiful field of lavender in full bloom with text that says Lavender Farms in Texas Hill Country.

Texas Hill Country is famous for its rolling landscapes, charming small towns, and, in recent years, its breathtaking lavender farms. With ideal growing conditions for lavender, the region has become a hotspot for agritourism, drawing visitors who want to stroll through fragrant fields, pick their own lavender, and experience the calming effects of this beautiful plant. The best time to visit Texas lavender farms is May through July, when the plants are in full bloom, transforming the fields into a sea of purple. The town of Blanco, known as the Lavender Capital of Texas, even hosts an annual Blanco Lavender Festival to celebrate the harvest season. In this guide, we’ll explore the top lavender farms to visit, the best ways to experience them, and a…

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