Liberty Hill Digest • April 2022

Liberty Hill digest

A P R I L 2022

Living Beautifully Blinded by the Light April Special Focus

Home Improvement & Real Estate Local, Professional Advice for Home Decor | Landscaping | Interior Design Upgrades | DIY Projects

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POOLS

PATIOS

LANDSCAPES

ALL THINGS OUTDOORS From Swimming Pools and Spas to Outdoor Living Spaces and Landscaping, Omnia Outdoors provides a custom experience and product uniquely tailored to today’s swimming pool market clientele.

The old-school production swimming pool builders are missing the mark. Call us today and find out why Omnia Outdoors is the fastest growing pool builder in the Austin and surrounding area and very proud to call Georgetown home.

LANDSCAPING

PATIO STRUCTURES OUTDOOR KITCHENS

POOLS & SPAS

Give us a call!

LANDSCAPE LIGHTING

“Call us today to schedule your no obligation design consultation and in a matter of days you will get to see your comprehensive backyard design come alive in 3D!”

512.240.4645 2

714 S. Austin Ave., Ste. 201 Georgetown, TX 78626

A P R I L 2022  LIBER T Y HILL D IGES T

INSIDE

FAVORITES 4

EDUCATION CTE Construction & Inspection

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EXPERIENCE LIBERTY HILL A "Daytripper" Tour

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WHAT MAKES TEXAS, TEXAS The Great Texas Migration

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BELLE CHIMES IN Thoughts on Relationships

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PEOPLE Unstuck Living

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WORTH THE DRIVE Topsey Ranch

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FOOD Super Fast & Super Slow

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PARTING SHOT Youth League Opening Day

4 LIBERTY HILL HIGH SCHOOL CTE

Career & Technical Education is a Growth Education Industry

SPECIAL FOCUS

HOME IMPROVEMENT & REAL ESTATE

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ASK THE EXPERTS Property Fraud

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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT Blinded By The Light Is Helping You Live Beautifully

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SAVE THE PLANET Green Gardening

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BUSINESS PROFILES • Moore Liberty Buildings • Comfort Realty

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WELL-BEING DIY Gardens

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UPDATES & UPGRADES

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BACKYARD TRENDS Upgrade Your Great Outdoors

Expert advice for home decor, landscaping, interior design, upgrades, and DIY projects that will get you the best return on your investment.

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Getting The Most Bang For Your Renovation Buck

Next Month... M AY FO CU S WOMEN IN BUSINESS & WINERIES

ON THE COVER: Deb Lohman, Blinded by the Light

Photo by Christianna Bettis Photography

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Liberty Hill digest

Published by Fidelis Publishing Group, LLC

PUBLISHER

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Ann Marie Kennon

Cathy Payne

COMMUNITY EDITOR

Megan Diane Beatty

Megan, a mom of two, has been a part of the Liberty Hill community for 11 years.

Originally trained as a nurse, today, she channels her passion to help others into throwing birthday parties for kids battling cancer. Megan’s other passion is running, and that same zest for life flows into her writing and sharing the inspiring stories of Liberty Hill.

SENIOR WRITER / EDITOR Charlotte Kovalchuk CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Cassidie Cox • Linda A. Thornton GRAPHICS & DESIGN Sandra Evans • Ann Marie Kennon CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Christianna Bettis Photography SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR • Jenny Campbell DISTRIBUTION • David Schumacher IT/WEBMASTER • Jesse Payne CONSULTANT • W. Ben Daniel

ADVERTISING Jenny Campbell 254-251-9167 (Cell) 512-598-6538 (Direct) jenny@lhtxdigest.com

Liberty Hill Digest is a Fidelis Publishing Group, LLC publication and a product of AdvocateNewsTX Newspaper.

Copyright © 2022 All rights reserved. Liberty Hill Digest is published monthly and mailed USPS, free of charge, to homes and businesses in Liberty Hill, TX zip codes. Mail may be sent to Liberty Hill Digest, P.O. Box 213, Jarrell, TX 76537.

Email: info@lhtxdigest.com

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EDITOR’S NOTE | MEGAN DIANE BEATTY Dear Readers, April is known for its beautiful spring weather and I tend to take advantage of that every chance I get by going on different hikes. My favorite hikes happen to be local. Tejas Camp has scenic cliffs, flowing water, plenty of wildflowers to pick, and red cardinals in every tree. Balcones Canyonlands is filled with wildlife, wildflowers, canyons, and streams. It is my favorite place to watch the sunset.

For this issue of the Liberty Hill Digest I had the pleasure of interviewing Unstuck Living owner Ashlie Cobb. It gave me the opportunity to reflect on the ways I feel stuck at home and inspired me to do my own decluttering to dig myself out.

As decluttering and spring cleaning seem to go hand in hand, be sure to review all the local profiles and resources for home improvement and real estate in our special section. Everything from DIY to major home renovations, inside and out, and great information to start populating your to-do list.

Additionally, PBS' Daytripper, Chet Garner found his way to our home town and I enjoyed hearing about all his adventures and the food choices and history he dug up during his time here. He set me on my own adventure down a county road on the hunt for unwanted toys. I cannot wait to watch the episode on TV so I can say with pure excitement and pride, “Hey, that’s my home town!”

Happy Easter Liberty Hill and PLAY BALL!

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EDUCATION

Building a Better Future Now

by Cassidie Cox • photos courtesy LHISD

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eachers and community members in Liberty Hill have facilitated a wonderful program that may mitigate some angst about post-graduation options. With nearly 30 teachers and instructors, the Career and Technical Education Program (CTE) is broadening the career potential for hundreds of students.

As Deah Twine, college career readiness and military coordinator, surveys 'classrooms' at Liberty Hill High School she discusses the nature of the teaching in each. They are not cubicles with desks, but kitchens, workshops, and medical and chemical labs. In each, CTE students are introduced to workplace competencies in a real-world, applied context to prepare them for today's labor market.

BUILDING A FUTURE LHHS' newest program is Construction Management and Inspection (photo right). Students can begin the certification process as early as ninth grade for a career in construction without the need for on-the-job apprenticeship.

Deah says, “Being able to provide programs based on what is out there for our kids, and that they are interested in, is amazing."

or fundraisers. Teachers monitor students' work and progress but also give them creative allowance to make new things.

Trent Schifflet, the teacher in charge of this program, shared a story about one who built a wood hat rack and, in a demonstration of program integration, applied skills from his welding class to add horseshoes to it.

COMMUNITY SUPPORT The CTE program is a community rich in connection to the real world.

Parents and business owners are encouraged to come and speak to students about what to expect in the field as a worker or entrepreneur.

Deah explains CTE is also beneficial for students planning to go to

The construction program not only gives students OSHA certifications and hands-on training, it allows them to give back to the community while they learn. In the classroom, students acquire physical skills while building furniture and appliances for other schools 4

A P R I L 2022  LIBER T Y HILL D IGES T

college, begin an internship, or simply looking for healthy ways to participate in school. Trent adds, "The majority enrolled in Construction may not be the students on sports teams or high-level academics. This little community gives them a special place to learn, grow, and be celebrated." He noted several students in his class who have made barbecues and will be hosting a cookout at the school for themselves and their friends. "The positivity shown to the students of this program will be felt by everyone long after the school year ends."

A STRONG START With 25 students in its first year, and many new students already inquiring about participation, Deah calls the program a success. She hopes to recruit more community members and subject matter experts to volunteer or teach and help give the students additional real world experience.

Business owners, parents, and anyone who wants to help give these students real world experience are encouraged to reach out and offer help. Scan the code to learn more or sign up.

by Charlotte Kovalchuk

EXPERIENCE LIBERTY HILL

"Daytripping" in Liberty Hill O

ver the years, a now-thriving Liberty Hill has attracted an abundance of new businesses, residential developments, and recently, "The Daytripper". The PBS show follows Texplorer Chet Garner as he explores both the well-known landmarks and hidden gems of Lone Star towns, inspiring Texans to find fun experiences in their own backyards. Adding Liberty Hill to the list was a moment Chet has been waiting for. “Every season, we sit down and say, ‘We need some Hill Country episodes.’

It’s a matter of what’s come along enough, and I’ve been sitting on the outside of Liberty Hill in Georgetown watching this city change. There’s so much now in Liberty Hill. It’s time.”

His traveling adventure took him across Liberty Hill in February to dining destinations like Parker’s Corner Market and Dahlia Cafe, Hell or High Water Brewing, the

Liberty Hill International Sculpture Park, and a hike at the Balcones Canyonlands. One of his favorite moments was meeting Terry Tunes, an artist who creates sculptures out of toys.

Overall, Chet says he simply enjoyed experiencing a new town. “Anytime I get to come to a town, eat a burger, and drink a craft beer, it’s fun. It’s about the places you go and the people you meet. It’s about bumping into people you wouldn’t normally have a chance to meet,” he says.

Enjoy a broadcast tour of Liberty Hill during the next episode of "The Daytripper" on May 19, 21, and 22 on PBS, or stream at thedaytripper.com. Scan the code to keep up with the Daytripper’s adventures on the show’s website and social media.

APRIL 2022  LIBERTY HILL DIGEST

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HOM E I M PROV E M EN T & R E A L E STAT E

Property Fraud What is it—How to Recognize It

by Ann Marie Kennon

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he pandemic may not be a priority topic anymore but residual effects remain for victims of property fraud. While not a new enterprise, many Texas courtrooms saw and continue to adjudicate an uptick in cases of this type. Lockdowns, eviction moratoria, and unemployment created a hotbed of criminal opportunity as many homeowners were unable to manage critical accounts properly.

A typical case might be a homeowner who checks on a vacant property only to find 'sovereign' residents—squatters—who claim the property is theirs. Or a divorced spouse finds someone living in a co-owned home rented out by the ex without permission. Some offenders simply drive through neighborhoods looking for vacant homes, break in and change the locks, then rent or sell the home to an unsuspecting buyer.

HOW IT HAPPENS Justice of the Peace Evelyn McLean and County Clerk Nancy Rister say 'paper terrorists' upped their game in frequency and creativity during the pandemic.

Ms. Rister says, "Criminals also count on homeowners who don't recognize errors in their tax forms, or don't realize they haven't received timely documents from their mortgage company." To create legitimacy, criminals must file documents with the County Clerk's office. Her staff assess all filings for red flags but may not review a case right away. In 2021 alone, due to real estate surges, they processed 167,000 documents, a 30 percent increase over the previous year. "We are not authorized to study and turn down documents at the counter," she adds. "But even fraudulent documents receive a number and are filed to the public record so they can't remain covert."

Judge McLean heard a case in which a woman received a foreclosure notice while living in a home she had paid off. The Judge recalls, "She hired a pool company in 1999. They dug the hole then went out of business so the mechanic's lien1 was null because the business no longer existed. In 2020, the owner got a call from an out-of-state mortgage company that had 1 Fo r ma jo r pro jec t s like p o o ls, win d ows, o r ro o fs, i f th e h o me owne r do es n o t p ay, t h e b u sin ess files a m e c h a n ic's lien o n t he ho m e to reco u p lo sses.

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filed paperwork to foreclose on the lien—liens have no expiration date—then sold the home to a management company."

WHAT TO DO Judge McLean says, "Just like the scam IRS and Social Security calls, no one from your mortgage company will call to threaten you, so just hang up. Be aware of your annual escrow and insurance schedules and be vigilant about checking payment status."

Notify neighbors about vacations; thieves don't need a year-long deployment to move in and if a squatter possesses any type of documentation, law enforcement may not remove them. Do make the 9-1-1 call to get it on the record.

If buying a second home that you are not living in all the time, check on sudden spikes in utility bills in person and install a security camera or alarm; you can not always count on your neighbors to report back to you.

Ms. Rister says not receiving a tax statement for your home is one of the first warning signs. It may be that someone already stole your identity and sold your note; you are not the owner of record any more so you can be evicted or foreclosed for non-payment.

Any documents filed for your address—since the year 1838 to last week—are available for review at the Clerk's office, including title applications and liens filed illegally. Look up your own name at the District Clerk website or in their library to review signatures, especially if you are a first-time or widowed owner.

Library staff may not give advice, but will help you find what you need.

Scan the code to sign up for fraud alerts on the clerk's website and call the office (512943-1515), before you call the mortgage company about suspicious filings.

B U S I N E S S

IS HERE TO HELP YOU LIVE BEAUTIFULLY Brass Accents: Yes, brass is back in vogue, it’s time to em-brass it! Brass creates warmth and adds a pop of shine in monotone color schemes.

T

here is no other shop in Liberty Hill like this unique home décor lifestyle boutique. Deb Lohman, owner of Blinded By The Light, prides herself on finding one-of-a-kind home décor pieces and Hunter Douglas® window coverings that combine the hottest trends with local inspirations.

�Let Your Personality Shine: Minimalist is out! Don’t be shy, go all out with décor as long as it is tasteful and cohesive.

LOCAL EXPERT

A LIFELONG DREAM Deb has always had an eye for detail, especially when it comes to home décor.

She once considered becoming an interior designer, but eventually made a career out of working with home goods and décor manufacturers who sold their products to Target Corporation.

Owning and curating her own home décor store was always a lifelong dream of hers and that dream came true in the Fall of 2020 when Deb opened Blinded

By The Light in Liberty Hill.

BRING STYLE TO LIFE Deb strives to provide a unique shopping experience for every customer who comes through her door. “I don’t want my customers to see the same old décor so many of the big box stores have; all items I carry are in limited quantity.

I want my clients to feel special about their purchase, and not worry about their neighbors having the same exact piece.”

When asked how she chooses the items for her shop, Deb said, “It’s all about finding the right vendors to work with that provide unique, good quality items. Not only do I try to support other local or US manufacturers, I don’t order my products online. I have to see it, touch it and feel it, so I know my customers are getting top quality pieces.”

HOM E I M PROV E M EN T & R E A L E STAT E

Blinded by the Light

S P O T L I G H T

To some, home decorating can be overwhelming, so we asked Deb how she overcomes this challenge. “Changing the decor in your home does not always mean that you are taking everything out and starting all over. The home decor that best suits you should be an expression of your personality. You can make a big statement just by simply adding stunning wall artwork or an accent chair in a vibrant color.”

Here are some simple decorating tips Deb suggests that are easy to do.

Large Wall Art: Having one large piece of art provides an anchor to your space that draws focus and pulls your design together.

Large Mirrors: A giant wall mirror makes a room feel spacious and bright and the sunlight can be reflected as another light source to open up your room. �Bringing the Outdoors In: Natural wood finishes mixed with earthy color pallets create a tranquil space.

Deb is an expert on Hunter Douglas window covering fashions so there is no need to go to Austin. Her keen eye for detail and design allows her to seamlessly combine the latest in window coverings with the interior design and decorating trends of any home. Initial consultations with Deb may be conducted either at Blinded By The Light or at your home, whatever your preference.

Window coverings have come a long way from the basic vertical and mini-blinds. Today, they are beautifully designed and can be the focal point of your room or enhance any space. With smart home technology on the rise, all Hunter Douglas window coverings are available with PowerView motorized shades that can be programmed to block out harmful UV rays during the hours of your choice. When it comes to window coverings for your home, Deb suggests “Let your personality shine through in your home décor and accessories.”

At Blinded By The Light you will find that one-of-a-kind piece or that perfect gift for a new bride or friend. Deb is passionate about home decor, so if you’re considering adding new window coverings or want some decorating advice, stop in and speak with her, she will love to help you live beautifully.

WATER TOWER PLAZA 14125 W HWY 29, SUITE A104 LIBERTY HILL, 78642 A P R I L 2 0 2 2  L I B E R T Y H I L L D I G E ST

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SAVE TH E PL ANET

by Cassidie Cox

Being Green was Never So Easy M

any homeowners go to great lengths to create a beautiful lawn and garden. As you daydream about blooms and produce, don’t forget to plan ahead to care for and protect grass and plants to ensure a full season of healthy growth.

Caretakers may want to consider how to manage a green garden in the most 'green' way. Puns aside, eco-friendly planting and treatments are healthy for the soil and plants,as well as your home. Following are a few tips provided by a Central Texas green garden enthusiast on how to prepare an environment-friendly lawn and garden.

THE BASICS As spring arrives in Texas, it is essential to amend— fertilize—your soil to prepare for the new season. Since the levels of chemicals and heavy metals in commercial fertilizers are difficult to pinpoint, a green solution here is compost. Making your own compost is a great way to recycle and make soil even healthier.

A compost pile should have an equal amount of browns to greens and alternate layers of organic materials of different-sized particles. The brown materials provide carbon, the green materials provide nitrogen, and water provides moisture to help break down organic matter.

Fruits and vegetables

�Eggshells

Coffee grounds and filters

�Tea bags

Nut shells

�Leaves

Shredded newspaper

�Cardboard

Yard trimmings

�Paper

Grass clippings

�Houseplants

Houseplants

�Hay and straw

Wood fireplace ashes

�Sawdust

Wood chips

�Leaves

Cotton and Wool Rags

�Hair and fur

NEIGHBORING PLANTS Another way to make sure soil stays healthy is to have neighboring plants; i.e., planting two types of plants close together so they help each other.

Marigold flowers repel bugs, so keep some close to tomato plants to help keep leaves and fruits safe

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without pesticides. This also works with pairs like basil and rosemary—the bitter smell of rosemary keeps bugs away from the sweet-tasting basil leaves.

HELP IN YOUR PANTRY Pesticides do not have to be expensive chemicals; the best ones can be found in a spice rack. Sprinkle a little cinnamon or cayenne pepper on soil or plant leaves to keep slugs, ants, and other critters away from plants. Cinnamon also acts as a fungicide for seedlings when transferred to the ground, and a healing agent for broken leaves and limbs.

Keeping a plant in a planter can be challenging, but putting rocks and bark at the bottom of the pot will help with water absorption, while a little cinnamon in the soil will stimulate root growth.

OUTDOORS Watering in the morning and evening by hand is more sustainable and helps plants absorb that water before it gets too hot.

Small things like these can go a long way to make lawns and gardens beautiful and sustainable, without being too expensive.

Space for You, Storage for Your Life

Stop in and check out our inventory!

fully finished cabins, playhouses, decks, sheds, barns and carports Located halfway between US Hwy 183 and Ronald Reagan Blvd on Hwy 29

MooreLibertyBuildings.com

512.548.6474

office@moorelibertybuildings.com

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HOM E I M PROV E M EN T & R E A L E STAT E

MOORE LIBERTY BUILDINGS

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A P R I L 2022  LIBER T Y HILL D IGES T

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HOM E I M PROV E M EN T & R E A L E STAT E

B U S I N E S S

P R O F I L E

Space Storage FOR YOU,

FOR YOUR LIFE

MOORE LIBERTY BUILDINGS WAS ABLE TO MEET AN HOA’S STONE WAINSCOT AND STUCCO REQUIREMENT FOR THIS STORAGE SHED.

Find Your Dream Building with Moore Liberty Buildings

W

hether you’re searching for a man cave or she shed, lake house or backyard office, Moore Liberty Buildings is passionate about combining expertise with aboveand-beyond customer service to help you find the perfect building to fit your needs.

As passionate as he is today about selling buildings, it was never part of co-owner Chad Moore’s ultimate plan for his life. But as a traveling salesman with deep family roots in Liberty Hill, a widower, and father of four, he knew he needed a stable, 9-to-5 job in order to focus on his family.

When his friend and owner of a Liberty Hill building dealership asked him to help with sales and later to take over the business, Chad saw it as an answer to prayer—after some encouragement from now-wife Amanda, on their first date in 2015.

Now co-owners of Moore Liberty Buildings, Chad and Amanda strive to fulfill people’s dreams of space, anything from peaceful lake houses to fancy chicken coops to backyard sheds that meet strict HOA requirements. The couple dreams alongside their clients, designing unique buildings

people can browse on-site. They’re also problem solvers, helping many create the storage space they need, such as a shed to get their tools out of the garage and make room for their car. “We love people and we love helping people get something they need or find something they’re dreaming about,” Amanda says.

Moore Liberty Buildings also offers carports, cabins, covered porches, and decks – all customizable and delivered or built right in your backyard, along with financing and rent-to-own options. “We care about getting people the building that works for them,” Chad says. “We’re not just out to close a sale.”

He and Amanda pride themselves on providing a stellar customer service not often found at shed dealers. “People are surprised when they come to see us,” she says. “Unfortunately, shed dealers are not always informative and not always around. When people see our level of care, knowledge, and professionalism, they really appreciate it.”

O R D E R S O O N E R R AT H E R T H A N L AT E R — I T TA K E S LO N G E R T H A N E V E R B E F O R E TO G E T A B U I L D I N G D U E TO M AT E R I A L S H O R TAG E S .

512 - 548 - 6474 • O F F I C E @ M O O R E L I B E R T Y B U I L D I N G S . CO M 12

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B U S I N E S S

P R O F I L E

O

pening the door to your home after a long day should bring familiarity and comfort. At Comfort Realty, that idea is not just a casual hope—it’s their mission. Last year, after a decade of friendship, Rachelle Anselmi and Kelly Hamilton decided to turn that mission into a practice at Comfort Realty.

Choosing the right home takes work, and the agents agree one of their favorite parts of the job is getting to know clients and their tastes in order to find the perfect property for each. But, what sets Comfort Realty apart is expert knowledge of the local area and its properties, and a willingness to collaborate with other agents.

“If I don’t know an area, I’ll refer (a client) to someone who does,” Rachelle says. “It’s not about the money for us. It’s about finding the right home.”

FINDING THE RIGHT HOUSE FOR A PERSON I S T H E M O S T P E R S O N A L T H I N G . ~ K E L LY

Real estate isn’t easy and the agents at Comfort Realty know that, which is why they have adapted their business to include as much education for clients as possible.

An agent who understands, and wants to help you understand, makes a world of difference.

COMFORTREALTYTEXAS.COM KELLYSELLSTX@GMAIL.COM (M) 512-508-6393 RACHELLE@RACHELLEANSELMI.COM (M) 512-791-7990

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HOM E I M PROV E M EN T & R E A L E STAT E

"Get Comfortable"WITH THESE NEW REAL ESTATE AGENTS

HOM E I M PROV E M EN T & R E A L E STAT E

Do-It-Yourself Gardens

O

ver the past two years,many people have enjoyed gardening not just to cure lockdown boredom and beautify their homes, but as a way to bring some of the purpose, fulfillment, and joy back to their lives that went missing over many months of uncertainty.

FLOWER GARDEN: For those who like a traditional garden, flowers may be the way to go. Whether in beds or small planters under windows, gardens filled with vibrant color are sure to brighten your mood.

The best bets for surviving Texas heat are lantana, zinnias, hibiscus, and firebushes.

WILDLIFE-FRIENDLY GARDEN: Honeysuckle and sunflowers will bring bees buzzing, cosmos and Miss Molly Butterfly Bush attract monarch butterflies, and daylilies and petunias welcome hummingbirds.

ROCK GARDEN: A rock garden may be the best choice that is also peaceful and therapeutic for those without a green thumb. Planting cacti and other drought-tolerant desert plants between rocks for a low-maintenance look. � INDOOR GARDEN: Indoor gardening can freshen up your home and give it a peaceful atmosphere. Snake plants, fiddle-leaf fig, and pothos are great for beginners. Adding living things will brighten your mood and freshen the air.

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by Cassidie Cox

� JUNK GARDEN: For anyone wanting to get rid of that rusty old bucket or tire, reusing junk as planters has become a new trend. With some paint, positioning, and a good drainage system, plants will thrive while transforming something unappealing into a work of art while saving space in a landfill.

VERTICAL GARDEN: Plants that grow upwards instead of outwards can make the most of a small space indoors or out, brighten up a dull wall, or give gardeners more space to plant when they run out of room in the yard. With some PVC pipe, soil, sun, and a water source, you can grow many types of fruits, vegetables, and herbs on a patio or porch.

BENEFITS TO YOU Science has long since proven that gardening helps people feel calmer, less stressed, and more productive.

Spending time outdoors also provides a shot of vitamin D while clearing an anxious mind.

Gardening is not always about production. Sometimes it is about calming the mind, getting us out in nature, or allowing us to feel grounded at home. With these tricks and different gardening styles, there is a garden ready to be planted when you are ready to unplug from everyday stress.

HOM E I M PROV E M EN T & R E A L E STAT E

HONOR AND MEMORIALIZE

BRICK OPTIONS

A custom engraved brick from the National Mounted Warfare Foundation will create a lasting tribute for someone special in your life, and preserve their memory for future generations. Your brick will be displayed on the grounds of the National Mounted Warrior Museum outside of Fort Hood, Texas.

Commemorative bricks are available in two sizes, 4” X 8” for $100 and 8” X 8” for $200.

A 4” X 8” brick may have up to three lines of text, an 8” X 8” may have up to six lines.

Each line may have up to 18 characters.

You may also purchase miniature replicas of your brick - a 1.5” X 3” souvenir brick is $20 and a 3” X 3” is $30.

INSIGNIA ENGRAVED BRICKS Insignia and logo engraved bricks are available, but will incur a setup fee dependent on the complexity of the design. Pleas contact us directly for more information.

Each brick inscription will be reviewed for appropriateness.

Bricks will be produced and emplaced upon completion of the museum - currently projected for late 2020

Commemorative Brick Program • 833-IN-HONOR • NMWFoundation.org • Mounted Warrior Museum Killeen, Texas A P R I L 2 0 2 2  L I B E R T Y H I L L D I G E ST

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HOM E I M PROV E M EN T & R E A L E STAT E

Making the Most of Your Home Improvement

A

s a homeowner, trying to determine the best return on upgrades to your property is sometimes more complex than just finding the time and money to do it.

From flower beds to full remodels for added comfort or sale preparation, experts suggest the first step is to ask yourself, “Why am I doing this?” Simply put, it is important to consider the reasons for the change; e.g., being unhappy with current surroundings, renovating an older home for safety and efficiency, or planning a move.

Not all changes are about being paid back in a sale, and we asked Kelly Hamilton of Comfort Realty (see ad on pg. 13) for ways, however large or small, to improve your home’s appearance and livability. As a local licensed real estate service provider, she is well-appointed to advise homeowners about optimum projects and timing.

MAKING A CHANGE When putting together a timeline for updates and upgrades, Kelly suggests establishing the new look with the most costly elements; e.g., countertops and appliances. Large items and those attached to the house are not like throw pillows that can be changed out easily.

The appliance color may depend on the color of the new countertop, and so on to the lesser expense items.

Kelly adds, "Be cautious about making things so trendy or personal that future buyers may not feel they can put their stamp on it. I also tell clients to live in the home for at least one year before making major changes. This allows time to determine where they want to start. Some clients realize that they can wait for the kitchen update because they don't cook as much but the space and flow in the primary bathroom and closet is causing them to bump into each other often."

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by Ann Marie Kennon

INSIDE Kelly suggests it is not necessary to replace carpets unless they are essentially destroyed.

Homes with very little carpet seem to be the ones buyers like. She says, "Feedback indicate those homes feel “cleaner” and less work.

For anyone building a wish list for upgrades, Kelly recommends: Granite is timeless, while not as popular with today’s trends, plan to replace it as the budget allows and when the maintenance becomes a burden.

For a simple kitchen upgrade, consider replacing the backsplash. It is easier on the budget, will make a difference in the aesthetic, will may buy a few more years with the granite.

Unfortunately, appliances are not lasting as they did 10 + years ago. Replacing them has become less expensive and complicated to replace than repair. Give appliances a five year window to consider replacement based on mechanical issues.

OUTSIDE Kelly says roofs typically last 20-30 years but it is best to have an expert evaluation if there have been multiple hail and wind storms. She adds, "Letting roofs go past their prime cold lead to more costly damage, such as leaks and rot."

Windows are a substantial expense and replacements are more likely as the home ages but, if defective, they should be replaced for a sale. "Inspectors will note deficits and 'under contract' is an inopportune time to

HOM E I M PROV E M EN T & R E A L E STAT E

replace them since a buy may back out of the sale as a result."

Whether staying or selling, Lara advises the most economical updates are obvious repairs and updates, and a good deep clean of the property. "Cleanliness, pet smells, and clutter are easy reasons for losing a sale," she says.

It’s easy for dirt, algae, cobwebs, and other debris to accumulate on siding so be sure to clean gutters and wash exterior siding. Spray with a power washer and assess where you need to touch up the paint, replace wood rot, or fix loose siding.

Repair and repaint the front door, fences, and gates.

It is worth it to have a cheerful first look when you come home every day, or to welcome potential new buyers.

Power wash the driveway and other walkways. Fix broken bricks or loose flagstones.

Add bright flowers and pops of color to the beds.

Spray or pull weeds regularly. You don’t want to plant seeds of doubt with potential buyers by revealing unsightly weeds or cracks before they even make it inside.

Clean or replace your mailbox, door handles and mat, and house number.

After the house is sparkling and ready for upgrades, add new exterior lighting, such as a budget-conscious lantern, new fixtures, and uplights to draw attention to particular areas and improve the sense of safety.

When you're ready to invest more, good landscaping can create a sanctuary that makes every evening feel like a stay-cation, or set your home apart during a sale.

Kelly adds, "Landscaping is an excellent way to get a good return on cost, but it does not have to be expensive. Simply removing dead plants, trimming trees, and fresh mulch give any yard a healthy and meticulous appearance. It is also wise to trim bushes that diminish sunlight in the interior."

If you have the time or are planning to stay in your home for some time, high-end upgrades that add appeal and value include new garage doors, hardy or stone siding, and new flooring. Kelly says, "These provide the best return on investment; most homeowners recoup at least 70 percent of those costs at sale."

SHOULD WE GET A POOL? Home improvement icon Bob Vila always advised homeowners not to install a pool as an attempt to increase a home’s value as they have a neutral or negative effect on home value. Still, if you choose to build a pool as part of your lifestyle, and you believe you will use it at least 4-6 months of the year, which is normal for Central Texas, it is a sound choice. In a sale, a pool will raise the value of your home by about 7 percent1, and slightly more if you live in a neighborhood with many pools (i.e., you don't want to be the only house without one when you sell).

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Our local expert, Kelly Hamilton agrees. She says. "Installing a pool just to sell your home, in my opinion will not return the value, Spending $80,000 or more for a pool, at best, may return 30-40 percent in a sale. As a homeowner, if you are going to enjoy the pool, it is a great lifestyle. I would not advise going to the expense of a pool just to sell."

If you're not ready to invest $60,000 or more for an in-ground pool, see more alternatives in our Backyard Trends on page 18.

H ouse Lo gic.co m A T APPRRIILL 22002222   LLIIBBEERRTT YY H HIILLLL D DIIG GEESST

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HOM E I M PROV E M EN T & R E A L E STAT E

image credit: Moore Liberty Buildings

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Upgrade Your Great Outdoors OUTDOOR HOME OFFICES

or two years, the pandemic kept us in our homes or at least in our own yards. Many of us found getting back to our lawns and gardens was healthy and uplifting. We added bird feeders, planted gardens, and recaptured the quiet of porches and patios. According to a National Gardening Association survey, more than half of us are spending an extra two hours a day outside compared to pre-pandemic days. With the worst of it in our rear-view mirror, the new generation is getting more creative and turning our own outdoors into spaces we can live in.

For 2022, the hottest trends include working outdoors and making our yards into entertainment spaces.

SHE SAID "SHE SHED" One post-pandemic trend whose time has come is the need for more space for all those new hobbies. If the man of the house wants to reclaim the garage or the lady of the house wants to spread out to accommodate supplies for quilting or scrapbooking, or provide space for yoga, a She Shed is all the rage. Amanda Moore of Moore Liberty Buildings affirms there are also plenty of Man Cave designs in the offing as well, for those who want room for carpentry, fly tying, or space to entertain friends. In 2022, even grownups can have club houses.

Amanda says, "People don't realize how many options there are, but many of our clients enjoy the choices of windows, flower boxes, lofts, and shelving.

Depending on the type and size of your yard, and distance from electrical and water sources, designs can include wiring and plumbing for wet bars and televisions.

"We are currently designing a hangout spot with a wet bar so the only limit is your imagination," Amanda says.

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Experts predict 53 percent of the U.S. workforce are working a hybrid remote set-up this year. For the emerging 'laptop class' working in natural light, we not only look better on Zoom, the sunshine is a mood booster.

Outdoor workspaces need some of the same features as an indoor office. Create privacy and shade with dense plantings that muffle surrounding noise and block the neighbor's view. An inexpensive laptop sunshade or an anti-glare screen protector, can significantly reduce glare and eye strain that is possible even when working in the shade. An outdoor extension cord or power strip will keep things charged, or if you are worried about safety and aesthetics, a portable power bank may be the right solution.

It is also critical to study how far from your router your new workspace will be. A WiFi extender or mesh network can keep speeds up and they typically plug into electrical outlets.

Remember your equipment doesn't like things too hot or too cold so be sure to create a cool shady spot, and invest in a patio heater or chimenea.

GET FIRED UP Fire pits have always been a popular backyard feature but this perennial favorite is being updated to the fire table. Generally smaller in size and offering the flexibility of alternate fuel sources—electric, natural gas, and biofuel—their smaller and sleeker look is becoming a modern design trend.

Along with fire pits, grills are also going electric in an effort to reduce the environmental impact of outdoor cooking.

HOM E I M PROV E M EN T & R E A L E STAT E

by Ann Marie Kennon

GO FOR A SWIM If you’re worried that your dream pool might be too big of an investment, it may be time to start looking at alternatives.

An above ground option offers a similar swim experience for much less cost, and they can be taken down and resold when you're ready to move or upgrade. While above ground does not have the appearance or prestige of an in-ground, landscape design and wraparound decks have caught up with the trend and provide a similar aesthetic for a smaller investment.

THE RETURN OF BIRD BATHS Water features are making a splash in front and backyard landscapes. New styles and designs, as well as upcycles and re-purposed elements have re-imagined the humble bird bath, and are giving homeowners something else to enjoy while they relax outside. All birds need a dependable supply of fresh clean water for drinking and bathing, so you are likely to see a greater variety of feathery visitors who don't eat seeds and wouldn't otherwise visit your yard.

A swim spa combines the benefits of water exercise and the relaxation of a hot tub. Generally 8' x 10' or larger, these 'water treadmills' are low maintenance, energy efficient and, because they are heated, you can use them year round. Most have capacities of ten people or more, so the kids can host a birthday party, or you can have another activity to keep the family busy during a visit. Swim spas fit on a deck or patio, and can also be in-ground. Prices start at about $10,000 and most can be installed in less than a day. Using jets, they create a current that allows you to swim in place or do other water-based exercises, or enjoy as a jet hot tub.

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migration is the Sincerest Form of Flattery WHAT MAKES TEXAS “TEXAS”?

by Ann Marie Kennon

I

n 2021, Texas ranked #1 in oneway U-Haul rentals entering the state.

Representatives at U-Haul report that due to pandemic conditions, people were forced to make adjustments in their lives and more than half of their national traffic involved a move to or within Texas last year. Texas U-Haul Vice President Matt Merrill said, "The way Texas deals with the pandemic is using common sense. Everybody takes care of themselves and takes care of their neighbor and we can't be shut down.

We have to deal with it head-on. We continue to be open." Traffic into Texas grew nearly 20 percent from 2020 to 2021, largely due to moves from the west coast, mid-Atlantic, and New England states.

Still, for nearly 200 years before COVID, Texas was attracting other Americans and today, migration from other states accounts for nearly one-third of the state's population growth from year to year. According to experts like U-Haul and Forbes, data show Texas is home to

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four of the top 50 most active metropolitan areas in all sectors of real estate combined over the past decade.

REAL ESTATE TRENDS Over the past decade, Dallas has shown the most office and industrial growth while Houston stands out as the most active single family market and the Austin-Williamson County metro area ranks 11th with the greatest population growth by percentage. This is no surprise to anyone who has lived in Liberty Hill since 2010 and experienced the 361 percent increase in the local population in 2022.

Newcomers to Texas seem to land in the Houston area, particularly those Californians seeking relief in the state's lower home prices and tax rates, cheaper land, and solid economy but who still prefer a city lifestyle. Combining all these trends, the U.S. Census Bureau data show, overall, more than 687,000 Californians have moved to Texas over the last decade. Given the cost, it is hard

If Texas were a nation— again... we would have

THE TE X AS MIGRATION

won more Olympic medals in 2020 than 89 other countries the 7th largest number of billionaires in the world the 50th largest population in the world more tax revenue since we give the Federal Government more than they

give back

the 18th largest GPD in the world; about the same as Canada one-third of the world's largest recoverable oil reserve the 13th largest road network in the world the 40th biggest landmass in the world; bigger than France, Ukraine, Spain, Iran, and Afghanistan the ability to defend ourselves via 25 military bases, including ownership of the only nuclear weapons assembly plant in the current United States continued ability to power our nation with our own power grid Elon Musk as a sovereign citizen.

to blame them; a typical home in Harris County, for example, is 57 percent cheaper than in Los Angeles County, whereas the average annual pay is about the same.

As well, according to the Tax Foundation, Texas has the nation’s fifth-lowest state and local tax burden, and even with a freak winter storm that collapsed our power grid, Texas still held on to Chief Executive Magazine's “Best State for Business” title for the 18th year in a row.

Texas real estate remains hot for the second year in a row because our state offers much in terms of job prospects, changes in lifestyle, and retirement.

Until that star fades, it’s hard to imagine the migration changing anytime soon.

WHY ARE THEY COMING? While the mid-Industrial dream of California living fades due to climate disasters, high cost of living, and unstable politics, the Lone Star shines brighter every year. Data show that Texas is rife with affordable, economically vibrant cities with business friendly policies and leaders. Most have lower crime rates, new housing, schools that are constitutionally mandated to provide standards of education, great food—not to mention cowboys—and all for much

less than living in a coastal metroplex. The only trend to concern Texans at this point is the influx of buyers from other states driving up the housing costs in the many small towns that struggle to retain their romantic and historical ambiance.

E V E N T H E N E W YO R K T I M E S D O E S N ' T D E N Y T H E AT T R A C T I O N , A S O N E CO LU M N I S T S A I D I N N O V E M B E R , " T H E R E A R E LOT S O F P L AC E S I N A M E R I C A W I T H J O B S A N D LO W E R C L I M AT E R I S K S , O R J O B S A N D R AC I A L D I V E R S I T Y, B U T I F YO U WA N T A L L T H R E E , T E X A S W I L L TA K E C A R E O F YO U B E S T." Given all these factors, there is no indication the Texas migration will slow any time soon. The only challenge that remains is the lack of inventory for homes priced under $300,0001. Despite the lack of inventory and supply chain shortages, the state's diverse and expanding economy, favorable business policies, and steady population growth support a favorable outlook for years to come.

1 Texas Real Estate Research Center

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BELLE

Belle Thoughts

about relationships

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orget Mars and Venus. At least those two celestial bodies are in the same solar system. Ladies, have you had the conversation with your male partner who says, "Who is coming over again? I can never keep your friends straight." Two minutes later he is reciting the yardage statistics of three running backs over four seasons on two teams. I love him, but mine can tell me how many yards to what number hole on which course and how many times he didn't hit the fairway on it.

And it's not age related. My sixth grader likes to watch TV with the captions on because he is hyperlexic and it helps him memorize the lines faster. Sure, we Gen-X folks were happy to be the first generation to have cable and watch movies so many times we could recite all the best lines from The Breakfast Club, but watching a movie with a kid who is speaking. every. word. of dialogue in a 90-minute cartoon makes my head explode. This same kid—true story—when asked what the teacher talked about in Social Studies today, says, "I'm not sure."

Perhaps this isn't universal but I can still remember a time before Google or IMDb when, if I didn't know a fact or couldn't remember the guy that was in the show with that other girl, and I couldn't find the answer in a matter of seconds, it would bother me until the show came on again or I got up and looked in an encyclopedia. Men aren't obsessive like that. They are completely content to just keep on not knowing something. I'm working hard to acquire that skill. I think I would be a lot less unhealthy if I could also not care about stuff in a positive way.

Now that the pandemic is over (eyes rolling because it's really just that the war, gas prices, and mid-terms are hogging the news) it will be nice to have the house back to a normal routine. Yes, we all spent a lot of time in each other's spaces and I really wish I had a dollar for every time one of us said, "Why are you doing it that way?" I'm still not sure how it works that he hates

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the way I drive but always asks me to drive because he doesn't want to. It's also amazing to me how he thinks the vehicle is a force field. Seriously, if you were just walking down a hallway, and someone almost bumped into you at the corner, would you turn and scream "You're an idiot!" to their face?

Anyway, happily, spouse and I get along very well, although we still can't agree on whose fault it is when moving the salt three inches to the right means he can't see it. Science tells us men sense movement better than women, and women sense subtle changes in the environment. Perhaps he could find things faster if I just throw things to him.

Still, I love being married. When you're just dating, you don't have anyone to check your weird mole, you can't eat dinner out of the pot standing over the stove, and you definitely can't get excited about a text that says, "I found the scented dog waste bags you like." You have a buddy who will hide in the bedroom to eat all the snacks you don't want your kids to know you have. W‑e have also agreed our friends should know—if either of us ever wishes the other happy birthday or anniversary on Facebook—we've been hacked.

This is us in 200 years because we starved to death during the "I don't care, what do you want to eat?" conversation loop.

PEOPLE

Living an Unstuck Life

by Megan Diane Beatty • photo by Erin Ashby

FEELING STUCK?

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e’ve all felt it, that closing-in feeling when the kitchen counters are covered, hallways are clogged, and you can’t find anything. For the millionth time you tell yourself It’s time to get organized. Or perhaps, for a number of reasons, you feel anxious and overwhelmed all the time. If so, it is possible the clutter and chaos in your home are impacting your mental health, or vice versa. In either case, our homes can reflect all the ways we are stuck.

Psychology reminds us that life starts at home. It is the place we rest our heads, find solace at the end of a hard day, and it is a corner of the universe we can create to be our very own. But life happens at home too. With big change or a challenging season, the home can begin to mirror all the ways we may feel stuck, which makes learning how to get unstuck seem impossible.

While there are many online and professional sources of practical, gentle, and effective skills to help people thrive in their home life, Ashlie Cobb is on mission to help people in Liberty Hill get through the joys and hurdles of life. She started her Unstuck Living business to help those in her own hometown do just that.

Ashlie says this perception is normal for people in the midst of physical or emotional transitions like moving or divorce. As well, business owners may feel constantly challenged and wish they could clone themselves to free up brain space for home or work. "People sometimes need an extension of themselves," Ashlie says. "One part of their brain tying up loose ends in one place so they can be fully present in another.

One of my tasks might be to manage the planning and logistics of a business trip so the business owner can go home to be with family."

Ashlie's brand of life coaching also includes emotional support to widows and elderly who may feel like their lives or loneliness are unmanageable. She says, "I am physically and emotionally there for them in a way that allows them and their loved ones to feel more secure. Introducing people to new experiences or hobbies can bring new happiness."

BEING UNSTUCK Ashlie shares the concepts, skills, and mindsets for the orderly life many people crave. “When I started this journey, I was a military spouse returned to Texas after 12 years. I was looking to meet my neighbors and I wanted to be a servant in my community. Having a knack for all

things home, coordinating chaos, and offering grace, I wanted to be a safe place my neighbors could come to for help with messy situations that don’t always have an easy fix, or even an obvious starting point.”

The pandemic and resulting economic downturn that has affected so many mentally is what led Ashlie to further explore the roots of her own skill sets and go back to school.

“My hope is to integrate my natural skill set with greater knowledge and understanding,” she says.

NEED TO UNSTICK? Ashlie shared one tip for getting unstuck any time. For those dealing with self confidence or negativity, she recommends a three-day social media break, followed by a self-evaluation. "Look for areas where you are focusing on the outside—the external world—that are distracting you from something going on internally. For instance, finish this sentence; 'When I scroll on social media I need to avoid...' Then identify places where you are feeling anxious or playing the comparison game.

Where do you feel like you are being fearful or negative? Now address the root of your dissatisfaction."

She adds, if you want to take it one step further, perhaps unfollow some of the influencers who inspire those negative feelings and visit her website for more UnstuckLiving.com.

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worth the drive

Ann Marie Kennon • annmarie@lhtxdigest.com

Topsey Exotic Ranch 945 CR 118, Copperas Cove (254) 547-3700 • Open Daily, including holidays, March - Sept • Guests admitted at 9am - 5pm, complete your tour and depart by 6pm.

October - February • Guests admitted 9am - 3pm to complete tour and depart by 5pm.

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or 34 years, the Friedel family has been working to preserve some incredible wonders of the animal kingdom for Texans to enjoy up close and personal.

Topsey is a natural, free-range safari and petting zoo on 350 acres in the Hill Country. Guests can see a great variety of exotic domestic and wild animals from around the world, some of which are endangered and even extinct in the wild.

When Pop Friedel bought the property in 1988, he spent seven years preparing and perfecting the environment and acquiring a wonderful blend of animals that would live and thrive together before opening to the public. That passion for nature, and love of animals is still evident everywhere you look, including his family members who are carrying on the tradition and conservation.

WHEN TO GO When you meet staff like Stephanie Friedel (above), you know immediately how much they love being there, caring for the animals, and making sure every visitor’s experience is memorable and to make sure, the Ranch is open every day of the year, including Christmas. Current operations, other than a request to bring hand sanitizer,

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are completely normal and going very well. Stephanie says there are generally more visitors on weekends, but the drive trail covers hundreds of acres so vehicles are able to safari at their own pace; the trail averages anywhere from 45 minutes to two hours.

“Visitors are able to pull over if they wish,” Stephanie says. “If you want to spend extra time taking photos, wait for the zebras to get a drink of water, or enjoy feeding the camels for a long time, there is no worry about traffic on the trail.”

For the safety of the animals, ranch rules include keeping your windows all the way up or down for the duration of your drive. So, if you don’t like the heat, you can keep your windows closed and enjoy the view with the A/C on high. Same goes in the winter if you want to keep your heat on and stay cozy inside.

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w orth th e drive GET PLENTY OF FEED FOR MIKE AND MONTY >>> T H E Y C A N E AT A W H O L E B A G AT O N C E— B U T YO U W I L L LOV E E V E RY M I N U T E O F I T !

A GREAT DAYTRIP To start, Topsey is about an hour from Liberty Hill, and the trip there is a beautiful drive through Texas country.

Admission is very reasonable for a day of adventure and you can feed animals all day long for $1 per bag. Everything you see, from the animal pens to the restrooms, is well-maintained, well-marked, and—specifically the humans’ areas—spotless. There is also an air-conditioned gift shop with games, toys, snacks and drinks, and apparel; some purchases help support conservation efforts outside the ranch.

A WILD TIME On our recent visit, among other spirited moments, we fed dozens of goats, tried to get a non-blurry photo of extremely energetic squirrel monkeys, and visited with Lulu (at right), a pregnant kangaroo with a coat as soft as a chinchilla.

The animals are accustomed to their human visitors and are not shy about getting nose to nose with passengers.

They have plenty of furry respect for vehicles and do not block the path or leave any traces other than a dusty reminder from their treat-seeking hugs. While on the drive, passengers must stay in their vehicles but if you have concerns or questions about animal behavior, all of the staff are well-versed on the species they care for, and are happy to answer questions about what to expect.

Plus—and I’m hard-pressed to think of any other adventures that allow this—if you enjoyed the view and want more (and it’s at least one hour before closing), you can turn around and do the trail again.

Left page (clockwise): Stephanie Friedel went on special safari with us to share all the great details about the ranch and the animals. • Ranch entrance • Three-day old chocolate fallow deer • Black ostrich looking after her eggs • Swamp water buffalo • Petting zoo • Squirrel monkey enclosure.

The ranch maintains an Enrichment Plan of nutrition and activity to keep the monkeys engaged, healthy, and happy.

Above: Monty the Camel made himself right at home in the car looking for more treats. Monty and his buddy Mike are as gentle as they are persistent; it was the most fun we had all day. • Lulu the Kangaroo has imprinted on Stephanie and is comfortable around her and other humans, even while pregnant. Kangaroos actually have two uteruses and can pause a pregnancy in one to ensure optimum gestation for one and then the other.

Below: Just a small part of the acreage and the view from the trail.

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FOOD

Super Slow to Super Fast and all Good Multicookers have become a kitchen must-have. As the name suggests, they are convenient multi-taskers— a set-it-and-forget-it slow cooker, and a pressure cooker, which uses high heat to speed up the cooking process.

MULTICOOKER CRISPY CARNITAS • 1 (4-5 pound) lean boneless pork roast, cut into 2-inch chunks (with excess fat trimmed off) • fine sea salt and freshly-cracked black pepper • 1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil • 1 batch mojo sauce • for serving: chopped fresh cilantro, diced white or red onion, and/or fresh salsa

MOJO SAUCE:

• 1 cup beer (or chicken stock) • 6 cloves garlic, minced • 1/2 cup fresh orange juice • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice • 1 tablespoon ground cumin • 1 teaspoon dried oregano • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt • 1/2 teaspoon freshly-cracked black pepper

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together mojo sauce ingredients until combined. Set aside until ready to use.

Season pork chunks on all sides with salt and pepper.

Set multicooker to Sauté. Add oil, followed by half the pork, and sear, turning every 45-60 seconds or so, until pork is browned on all sides. Transfer pork to a separate clean plate, and repeat with remaining pork, searing until it has browned on all sides. Turn off heat.

Pour in the mojo sauce, and toss briefly to combine with the pork. Close lid securely and set vent to seal.

Cook on high pressure for 30 minutes, followed by a natural release (about 15 minutes).

Set oven broiler to high heat.

Remove the pot lid and shred the pork with two forks. Transfer with a slotted spoon to a large baking sheet.

Spoon about a third of the leftover juices evenly on top of the pork and toss to combine. Broil for 4-5 minutes, or until the edges of the pork begin browning and crisping up.

Remove the baking sheet from the oven, then half of the remaining juices from the Instant Pot evenly over the pork and toss to combine. Broil for an additional 5 minutes to get the meat even more crispy. Remove baking sheet from the oven, then ladle the remaining juices over the pork, and toss to combine.

Sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro, then serve warm in tacos, burritos, salads, or whatever sounds good to you. Refrigerate pork in a sealed container for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

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FO O D

CROCK POT LEMON-CHICKEN SOUP A grown up spin on a childhood favorite.

• 9 c reduced-sodium chicken broth • 4 c (1 rotisserie) shredded cooked chicken • ¾ c chopped sweet onion (1 small onion) • ¾ c thinly sliced peeled carrots (2 large carrots) • ½ c thinly sliced celery (3 celery stalks) • ½ c dry white wine • 2 ½ t kosher salt • 8 oz uncooked orzo pasta • ¾ c frozen English peas, thawed • ¼ c chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley • 1 T lemon zest plus ¼ cup fresh juice (from 2 lemons) Combine broth, chicken, onion, carrots, celery, wine, and salt in a 6-quart slow cooker. Cover and cook on low until vegetables are tender, about 4 hours.

Increase heat to HIGH, and stir in orzo. Cover and cook until orzo is tender, 15 to 20 minutes. Stir in peas, parsley, zest, and juice.

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PARTING SHOT

by Megan Diane Beatty • megan@lhtxdigest.com

Little League Fever Arrives in Liberty Hill

Clockwise from top: Coach Scott Knife and the 6U AL Mariners L-R: 6U NL Phillies James, Daniel, and Hutson LHISD Superintendent Steve Snell throws out the first pitch.

10U hot shots L-R: Lilly, Eden, and Ruby

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pening Ceremonies is a special tradition the Liberty Hill Youth League celebrates every year. On March 25, the entire league gathered in uniform to celebrate a new season of baseball, friends, and community. This year’s ceremony was celebrated on brand new fields made possible by sponsors and volunteers. “As our town continues to grow, so does our league,” explained LHYL Board President Jake Thomas. “When I first started five years ago, there were just over 200 players and now we have nearly 800.”

Parks board member Mary Lynn Jones opened the celebration with a community prayer and some heartfelt encouragement to all the players; “I want you to dream big. I have two sons that played here.

My youngest son threw a no hitter his senior year and you can do that too!”

Liberty Hill's youth baseball, like the city itself, is a bit of inspired Americana. As more visitors and new residents arrive, it is among the many things that reflect our small town charm, no matter how much we grow.

Babe Ruth said it best, “Baseball was, is and always will be, to me, the best game in the world.”

Have fun and play ball, Liberty Hill!

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Music entertainment is in full swing Thursday-Saturday!

Visit agapebbq.com for our lineup!

(512) 548-6230

Located in downtown Liberty Hill!

3610 RR 1869

P.O. Box 213, Jarrell. TX, 76537

ECRWSS POSTAL PATRON LIBERTY HILL, TX

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