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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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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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Cheesy Cornbread with Creamed Corn: The Perfect Side

A close-up image of a sliced piece of cornbread, showing the melty cheese and visible corn bits, with a rustic wooden background and a chili bowl slightly blurred in the background. Text overlay: "Cheesy Cornbread with Creamed Corn – The Perfect Side!"

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…

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

A bowl of chili with text that says What is Authentic Texas Chili?

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…

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How Pets Contribute to Human Well-Being

A senior woman is walking her dog. Text says Pets and Hunan Well-being The Amazing Benefits of Having a Pet

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…

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

Fried chicken next to a glass of sparkling wine. Text overlay says Pairing Wine with Southern Comfort Food

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…

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8 Ways to Focus on Self-care for Seniors on Valentine’s Day

A senior couple enjoying a self-care moment. The focus is on the joy of spending quality time together and the concept of self-care and relaxation.

Valentine’s Day is often seen as a celebration of romantic love, but it’s also a wonderful opportunity for seniors to focus on something just as important—self-care. As we age, taking care of our physical, emotional, and mental well-being becomes even more crucial, and Valentine’s Day offers a perfect occasion to prioritize ourselves. In this post, we’ll explore 8 ways that seniors can use this special day as an opportunity to indulge in some much-needed self-care. 1. Pamper Yourself with a Relaxing Day Self-care for seniors isn’t just about staying healthy—it’s also about relaxing and taking time for yourself. Valentine’s Day can be the perfect excuse to indulge in some much-needed pampering. You could start the day with a warm, soothing bath—add some lavender or eucalyptus…

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How to Taste and Assess Wine: A Simple Guide for Wine Lovers

lots of glasses with sample amounts of red wine in each. text overlay says "How to Taste and Assess Wine"

As someone who has spent years enjoying and learning about wine, I know how overwhelming it can seem at first. The swirling, sniffing, and sipping might feel intimidating (or even silly), but it doesn’t have to be. Tasting wine is about engaging your senses and savoring the experience. Let me guide you through the simple steps of how to taste and assess wine, so you can enjoy every sip with confidence. Preparing to Taste Before diving in, create the ideal conditions for tasting: Choose a neutral environment: Avoid strong odors (e.g., perfumes or cooking smells) that can interfere with your sense of smell. Use appropriate glassware: Opt for clear, tulip-shaped glasses to capture the wine’s aromas. Serve wine at the correct temperature: White wines: 45–50°F…

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Choosing the Right Glass for Different Types of Wine

When it comes to enjoying wine, choosing the right glass can elevate the experience. The shape, size, and design of a wine glass influence how aromas are concentrated and how flavors hit your palate. Here’s a guide to different types of wine and the best glass to complement each one. 1. Red Wines Red wines are bold and complex, requiring glasses that enhance their characteristics. Cabernet Sauvignon & Bordeaux Blends Glass: Tall with a large bowl and a slightly tapered rim. Why: The wide bowl allows oxygen to soften the tannins, while the tapered rim focuses the aromas. Pinot Noir Glass: Wide bowl with a narrower rim. Why: The larger surface area helps release delicate floral and fruity aromas, and the narrower rim directs the…

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Your Go-To Guide for Pairing Wine with Food

I recently attended a wine and food pairing event at The 83 Winery. The main thing this class really brought home is that one of the best things about wine is how it can transform a meal. The right pairing not only brings out the best in your dish but also enhances the wine’s flavors. Over the years, I’ve learned a thing or two about what works well together—sometimes through research, but more often through trial and error. Although the old adage of white wine with white meat and red wine with red meat often works, it is a bit simplistic. Here’s my guide to pairing wine with food, complete with tips to help you feel like a pro the next time you’re uncorking a…

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