Blog | Golden Country Cowgirl

Texas Hill Country: Some of My Favorite Places

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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

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…

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

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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.…

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

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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…

Cheesy Cornbread with Creamed Corn: The Perfect Side

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What’s a hearty bowl of authentic Texas chili without a slice of warm, cheesy cornbread on the side? While Texas chili might be all about bold spices and tender beef, this Cheesy Cornbread with Creamed Corn brings a perfect balance of sweetness, creaminess, and just the right amount of crunch. Together, they’re a match made in comfort food heaven. Growing up, cornbread was always a staple at the dinner table—soft, buttery, and served with everything from soups to BBQ. My mom’s recipe was a simple version like Betty Crocker’s Traditional Cornbread Recipe. But after discovering the bold flavors of Texas chili, I knew I needed a side dish that could hold its own—this cheesy cornbread with creamed corn is rich, flavorful, and made for pairing…

Authentic Texas Chili: A True Taste of the Lone Star State

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Growing up in Southern California with a mom from the Midwest, chili always meant something familiar and comforting: ground beef, tomatoes, and plenty of beans. It was hearty, filling, and perfect for a cool evening—but it wasn’t until I moved to Texas six years ago that I realized authentic Texas chili could be something entirely different. Here in the Lone Star State, chili is more than just a meal—it’s a bold, no-beans-allowed tradition that’s all about rich spices, slow-cooked beef, and deep, smoky flavors. I’ll admit, my first encounter with authentic Texas chili was a revelation. Determined to master this local classic, I dove headfirst into research, sampled bowls from chili cook-offs, and experimented in my own kitchen until I found my perfect version. In…

Best Wine Storage Solutions for Small Spaces

Smart and Stylish Storage Ideas for Wine Lovers If you love wine but live in a small space, finding the perfect storage solution can be a challenge. I’ve lived in spaces from a four bedroom 2800 square foot house to a 21 foot travel trailer so I’ve faced lots of different challenges. Whether you have small living quarters or simply have limited kitchen space, keeping your bottles organized and properly stored is essential for preserving their flavor and quality. Over the years, I’ve used lots of different storage methods so I have some recommendations for the best wine storage solutions for small spaces. The good news? You don’t need a full wine cellar to enjoy and care for your collection. From compact wine fridges to…

15 Best Things to do on South Padre Island

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South Padre Island is a Senior-Friendly Gulf Coast Escape I’ve been to a lot of places in the Rio Grande Valley, but South Padre Island holds a special place in my heart. Being a former southern California girl, I love being near the water. The sound of the waves crashing on the shore and the gentle sea breeze instantly make you feel relaxed yet energized. I’m lucky to live only about an hour from South Padre Island. I’ve visited many times so I can give you some first hand recommendations for things to see and do. Whether you’re looking for a quiet retreat or a bit of adventure, South Padre has something for everyone—especially for active seniors like us. My Experiences on South Padre Island…

How Pets Contribute to Human Well-Being

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The Amazing Benefits of Having a Pet If you’re like me, you know that life just wouldn’t be the same without our furry friends by our side. Whether it’s a dog, cat, or even a rabbit, pets have a way of making everything better. But did you know that pets offer more than just companionship? Having a pet can actually do wonders for your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. It’s no wonder so many people say pets are family! In this post, we’ll dive into pets and human well-being – how pets help boost our health and happiness in ways we may not even realize. Physical Health Benefits Encouragement to Stay Active If there’s one thing pets are great at, it’s keeping us moving. From…

Pairing Wine with Southern Comfort Food: A Match Made in Heaven

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There’s something undeniably comforting about Southern food—it’s hearty, flavorful, and made with love. And while these dishes stand beautifully on their own, pairing them with the right wine can elevate the experience to a whole new level. Whether you’re enjoying fried chicken with a side of mac and cheese or savoring some shrimp and grits, there’s a wine out there that will make every bite of that Southern comfort food even more delicious. In this post, we’ll explore the best wine pairings for your favorite Southern comfort foods, and I’ll even throw in a few tips on Texas Hill Country wines, which are a great option to add a local touch to your wine and food pairing experience. Let’s dive in and discover how to…