Texas Live Magazine

TEXAS LIVE HOW TO DRESS A utumn LIKE A texaslivenetwork.com

VOLUME 6 ISSUE 4

A l l T h i n gs Te x a n

Volume 6 Issue 4, 2012 • Fall

Experience Fall in the Hill Country

TexasLIVE All Things Texan

TEXAN

WINE TRAILS

Nellie’s Style

Rachel Ashwell’s Prairie

$4.95

The Queen of Shabby Chic Plants Roots Deep in the Heart of Texas

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Volume 6 Issue 4

200 West Alamo St. 979.830.1756 Brenham, Texas 77833 nelliesbrenham.com

8/22/2012 7:34:21 AM

The Top Restaurant Row in Texas

Two Days in Boerne Calvert’s Kolache Twins Serving Czech Pastries with a Smile and a Dance

Family Outing Texas Pumpkin Patches

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TEXASLIVE Volume 6 Issue 4

Publisher: Rachael Hall

Senior Editor: Natalie Lacy Lange

Managing Editor: Veronica Smith Art Director: Lorraine Vogel

Senior Advertising Executive: Marilyn Smith

Advertising Executives: Stephani Allen, Pam Hendrichsen Operations Manager: Jerry McLennan Proofing Editor: Raye Green

Contributing Writers: Jan Adamson, Tracy Begland, Holly Beretto, Laura Blomstedt, Tina Butler, Clover Carroll, Rachel Carroll, Sarah Chelf, Kay Conlee, Martha Deeringer, Raye Green, Karen Lange, Mike Riccetti, Denise Stokes, Jay White Contributing Photographers: Patrick Bertolino, Tina Butler, Rachel Carroll, Sarah Chelf, Kenneth Finch, Alex Gregg, Ashley Diamond Siegert, Julie Soefer Special Thanks To: Shari Tackert

Advisory Team: Trenton Hall, Ann & Don Kinney

CONTACT Texas LIVE: Phone: 979-251-8333 Fax: 979-251-8707 Mailing Address: 2305 S. Day St., #218, Brenham, TX 77833 Email: texaslivemag@gmail.com www.texaslivenetwork.com

©BN Publications, Inc. 2012. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the express written consent of the copyright owner.

Texas LIVE Magazine does not necessarily endorse the views and perceptions of contributors or advertisers.

Texas LIVE Magazine welcomes unsolicited submissions and photographs, but does not assume responsibility for publication or return of materials. When any editorial or photography submission, whether in advertisements or editorial, is provided to Texas LIVE, by any means whether electronically or otherwise, the person/ business making the submission assumes all responsibility that the submission does not infringe on any third party’s rights and title, including all copyrights and/or releases. No fees are due to anyone, including photographer or models, unless previously agreed upon by all parties involved.

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2 Volume 6 Issue 4 | TexasLiVE | texaslivenetwork.com

About the Cover

TEXASLIVE

Contents Volume 6 Issue 4

FEATURES Autumn Wine Trails............................38 The Texas Hill Country Wine Trails are just the place to experience fall in Texas.

Houston’s Lower Westheimer.............72 The top restaurant row in Texas

>>

72

38 TexasLiVE | Volume 6 Issue 4 3

66

DEPARTMENTS Stomping Grounds

Travel Texas.................................9 Texas Pumpkin Patches Hayrides, fishing, and marshmallow roasting are just a taste of what these farms have to offer.

Travel Texas...............................12 Two Days in Boerne Pack your bags and experience the natural beauty, arts, and history of this Hill Country community.

Travel Texas...............................14 The Museum of the American Railroad More than 4,500 tons of railroad history is moving to Frisco.

Travel Texas...............................15 The Texas Mushroom Festival Known as “The Mushroom Capital of Texas,” Madisonville gears up for its 11th annual event.

Uniquely Texan..........................16 The Kolache Twins Every morning, twins Jody and Judy kick up their heels in a Czech dance in the street outside Zamykal Gourmet Kolaches in Calvert. Their performance lures travelers to stop and taste authentic pastries made from a recipe their grandmother brought from Czechoslovakia over a hundred years ago.

16

25 Good Living

Business Profile...........................25 The Prairie by Rachel Ashwell The Queen of Shabby Chic plants roots deep in Texas at her prairie B&B near Round Top.

Lone Star Style...........................29 Old and new, these handmade pieces are the perfect touch of old-world and handcrafted brilliance.

Artist Profile.................................30 The Beauty of Bullets Artist Jessica Meyer creates stunning jewelry made from bullet casings accessorized with diamonds and other gem stones.

Entertainment............................32 Dallas Returns J.R. is back. Ruthless rivalries and Texas-sized power struggles within the oil and cattle-rich Ewing dynasty heat up for the second season beginning in January.

Book Review..............................34 Celebrating Texas Women Two books celebrate the women of early Texas.

Down the Road

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Over the Virtual Fence..............42 From handmade cookbooks of yesteryear to today’s Pinterest boards, we’re sharing old ideas in new ways.

70 Home & Garden

A Fall Table................................63 Dining al fresco makes any meal feel special.

Garden Like a Water-wise.........66 Texan What gardeners can easily do to conserve our precious water

Taste of Texas

In Season...................................69 Acorn Squash

Culinary School.........................70 San Antonio’s CIA The Culinary Institute of America at San Antonio Protects the savory secrets of Latin American cuisine.

Recipes......................................76 Flavors of Fall Fall Recipes by Food Blogger Tina Butler

Every Issue: Editor’s Letter.......................................6 Contributors........................................7 Events Guide.....................................78 Scene in Texas..................................80

0

TexasLiVE | Volume 6 Issue 4 5

Letter from the EDITOR

F

all is my absolute favorite time of year. Although I usually resist change, fall is one of the few times that I welcome it. Oppressive heat and humidity is replaced by cool dewy mornings, Natalie Lacy Lange sandals are traded out for boots, and—speaking as a photographer—the blinding light of summer evolves into the magical warm light that inspires me to capture it all while it lasts.

There’s nothing like heading outdoors to drink in the colors and light of fall. As much as I love to travel, my own backyard is my favorite place to experience the season. The leaves are starting to drop, and the dappled light dances with the breeze. The squirrels are chattering and fattening themselves with the pecan and acorn crop. The hummingbirds and butterflies are stopping to take advantage of our blooms as they migrate south, and our chickens are starting to molt, which means my son has countless feathers to discover.

It’s a busy season—but a lazy season at the same time. Schedules are packed, but the weather invites us to slow down and enjoy the moment.

Not wanting to turn down nature’s invitation, outside is where I’ll try to be. Of course, I’ll grab my camera and call it “work” to justify it.

Whether it’s an evening of visiting on the porch or just swinging in the hammock under the last of the fall foliage, I already want it to linger a little bit longer.

God bless Texas, Natalie Lacy Lange Senior Editor natalie.livemagazine@gmail.com

See more of Natalie’s fall photos at TheShadyAcre.com.

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THE PRODUCTION TEAM

Veronica Smith

Rachael Hall

Managing Editor

Publisher

Lorraine Vogel Art Director

CONTRIBUTORS

Jan Adamson

(October Wine Trails, p. 38) Freelance writer Jan Adamson loves all things Texan. She was a weekly newspaper editor for 11 years and has written for several regional magazines. She lives in East Texas where she is also a realtor and is owned by a dog, Sydney, and a cat, Grace.

Tina Butler

(Flavors of Fall, p. 76) Tina Butler is the creator and “Mom” behind the blog Mommy’s Kitchen. Tina resides in Royse City, Texas, with her husband, Corey, and their three children. Since 2008, Tina has been sharing recipes and photographs featuring country cooking, old fashioned classics, and comfort food. In Mommy’s Kitchen, readers can expect to find Southern classics done the traditional way.

Tracy Begland

(San Antonio’s CIA Protects the Savory Secrets of Latin America, p.70) graduated from Ohio State University and Louisiana State University with degrees in engineering. She now resides in Dallas where she writes about the people, activities, and cuisine that pique her interest. She judged her fi rst bean competition at the Parker County 4H chili cook-off.

Clover and Rachel Carroll

(Over the Virtual Fence, p. 42) met and fell in love after discovering their mutual love for history, music, and Jesus (not necessarily in that order).

They perform as Back At The Ranch (Western Swing and Jazz music), produce “The Ranch Road Show,” fi lm “Down the Road” segments, and enjoy traveling down the road together.

Martha Deeringer

Holly Beretto (The Beauty of Bullets,

p.30) graduated from Franklin Pierce and St. Louis universities with degrees in communications and journalism.

She currently works in marketing for Rice University’s George R. Brown School of Engineering and writes about food and wine, travel, and interesting personalities for local, regional, and national publications.

(The Kolache Twins, p. 16) Martha Deeringer writes history articles for children’s and adults’ magazines. She lives with her large family and a diverse collection of dogs, cats, horses, cattle and an occasional rattlesnake on a farm near McGregor. Visit her website at www.marthadeeringer.com.

Jay White

(Garden Like a “Water-wise” Texan, p. 64) is a business intelligence analyst for the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas, and is completing a Masters of Horticulture degree at Texas A&M University. In his spare time, he gardens and writes about the joys and trials of growing organically in his Brenham gardens. Find tips and tricks from Jay about growing flowers, vegetables, trees, and perennials in Texas at Masterofhort.com.

TexasLiVE | Volume 6 Issue 4 7

Stomping

&

Informing Connecting Texas

GROUNDS tra vel texa s

Texas Pumpkin Patches A Devine Calling

BY KAREN LANGE

>>

TexasLiVE | Volume 6 Issue 4 9

Stomping GROUNDS tra ve l texa s

T

he onset of autumn ushers in a highly anticipated briskness in the air and, with it, the yearning for sweaters, campfires, and the great outdoors. However, there may be nothing that signifies the presence of fall better than pumpkins.

Luckily, we have an ample supply of pumpkins, and pumpkin patches, in and around the area, many of which double as Christmas tree farms during the winter. It is on these patches of hallowed ground that kids can be kids and adults have the chance to act like kids, if only for a season.

The Devine Acres Farm, located in Devine, Texas, is a short drive from San Antonio and boasts a pumpkin extravaganza on weekends and Mondays from September 29-October 29. The 44-acre spread is a working farm with all of the trappings. Fun activities around the farm include a scenic hayride, catch and release fishing, barrel train ride, duck races, hay bale, rope and color mazes, scarecrow dressing, pumpkin painting, marshmallow roasting, fabulous photo opportunities, and so much more. Active duty and retired military, policeman, fire fighters, and first responders are honored with half-price admission during opening weekend.

Think all pumpkin patches are the same?

Think again! While many of the larger,

commercial patches do offer several of the same kid friendly activities, the smaller, (typically) church-based pumpkin patches offer a unique setting coupled with a devine calling all their own. Brenham’s Christ Lutheran “Great Pumpkin Patch” runs from October 7-30 with a Fall Fun Day from 4-7 p.m. on October 20. Attractions include a scary hair salon, weird science lab, silent auction, bake sale and a message that relates the transformation of a pumpkin into a jack-o-lantern to spiritual cleansing.

With the number and variety of pumpkin patches in Texas, chances are there’s one near you. •

The Devine Acres Farm, located in Devine, Texas, is a short drive from San Antonio and boasts a pumpkin extravaganza on weekends and Mondays from September 29-October 29.

Many of the commercial pumpkin patches offer kid friendly activities such as hayrides, fishing, barrel train rides, duck races, rope and color mazes, scarecrow dressing, pumpkin painting, marshmallow roasting, and rock sifting.

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Gnismer Farm Pumpkin Patch 3010 S. Bowen Rd., Arlington, Texas, www.gnismer.com The Pumpkin Patch at First Christian Church in Arlington 910 S. Collins, Arlington, Texas www.fcc-arlington.org/584302.ihtml St. John the Apostle UMC Pumpkin Patch 5450 Mansfield Rd., Arlington, Texas sjaumc.org/#/pumpkin-patch Christ Lutheran “Great Pumpkin Patch” 1104 Carlee Dr., Brenham, Texas 77833, 979-277-9008 Dewberry Farm 7705 FM 362, Brookshire, Texas 77423, www.dewberryfarm.com Moore Farms 22412 CR 181, Bullard, Texas 75757, www.moorefarms.com 7-Acre Wood Park and Pumpkin Patch 4401 N. Frazier St., Conroe, Texas 77303, www.7acrewood.org Big Orange Pumpkin Farm 5518 County Rd #126, Celina, Texas 75009 http://bigorangepumpkinfarm.com Clear Lake United Methodist Church 16335 El Camino Real, Houston TX 77062 www.clearlakemethodist.org/content.cfm?id=2049 Black Creek Pumpkin Patch 2324 Old Decatur Rd., Decatur, Texas 76234 www.blackcreekfarm.net Elves Christmas Tree Farm & Pumpkin Patch 601 Harvey Ln., Denison, Texas 75020, http://elvesfarm.com Evergreen Farms 242 Monkey Rd., Elgin, Texas 78621 http://evergreen-farms.com/pumpkin.php Elgin Christmas Tree Farm 120 Nature’s Way, Elgin, Texas 78621 www.elginchristmastreefarm.com First Christian Church Granbury Pumpkin Patch 2109 W Hwy 377, Granbury, Texas 76048 http://thepumpkindirectory.com/details.asp?id=4454

Green Meadows Petting Farm 5700 Lake Ridge Pkwy., Grand Prairie, Texas 75052 www.greenmeadowsevents.com/home.php First United Methodist Church Killeen Pumpkin Patch 601 E. FM 2410, Harker Heights, Texas 76548 www.fumckilleen.com/pumpkin-patch South Texas MaiZE 911 US 90E, Hondo, TX 78891, www.southtexasmaize.com First United Methodist Church Pumpkin Patch 800 E. Main St., Humble, TX 77338, www.fumc-humble. org/594041 The Great Hill Country Pumpkin Patch 13558 Hwy 16 N., Medina, TX 78055 www.halloweenattractions.com/pumpkin _ patch _ in _ medina _ texas _ the _ great _ hill _ country _ pumpkin Sweet Berry Farm’s Harvest of Fall Fun 1801 FM-1980, Marble Falls, TX 78654, www.sweetberryfarm.com Pipe Creek Christmas Tree Farm and Pumpkin Patch 805 Phil’s Rd., Pipe Creek, TX 78063 http://pipecreekchristmastrees.com/Pumpkin%20Patch.html Blasé Family Farm 1232 E. Fork Dr., Rockwall, TX 75087, http://blasefamilyfarm.com TGR Exotics Pumpkin Patch 22115 Sherrod Ln., Spring, TX 77389 http://tgrexotics.com/pumpkin _ patch.html The Silo Christmas Tree Farm 7617 McGregor Park Rd., Temple, TX 76502 www.silochristmastreefarm.com/pumpkin.html

Be sure to call or email before heading out to one of the pumpkin patches as changes may occur without notice.

TexasLiVE | Volume 6 Issue 4 11

Stomping

B

GROUNDS tra vel texa s

Two Days in

Day One

11:30 a.m.

Start your weekend with lunch looking over an eclectic menu of international and local favorites from Th e Dodging Duck Brewhaus. Choose from items such as Thai Lettuce Wraps, Chimichurri Grilled Beef Tenderloin, or Bratwurst and Sauerkraut, along with their very own world champion beers.

402 River Road 830-248-3825

1:00 p.m.

Gear up for an up-close and personal underground adventure through Texas’s only cavern with an interior waterfall. The hour-long tour of Cascade Caverns will guide you through a refreshing natural environment of only 64-degrees, as you enjoy sightings of the ninety-foot waterfall, beautiful rock formations, and unusual animals.

226 Cascade Caverns Road 830-755-8080

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2:30 p.m.

Keep those walking shoes on as you explore 100 acres of nature’s finest at the Cibolo Nature Center. Hike through gorgeous trails and wilderness, swim in the Cibolo Creek, and grow your appreciation for nature through outdoor classrooms and activities for both children and adults.

140 City Park Road 830-249-4616

5:00 p.m.

End the day taking in more of Boerne’s natural scenery on horseback during a one-hour trail ride at Stricker Trail Rides. Other hourly rates are also available.

100 Wild Turkey Blvd.

210-508-9349

6:30 p.m.

oerne

BY SARAH CHELF

Travel just down the road and settle into your room at Th e Resort at Tapatio Springs.

Owned by Tom Cusick and country music legend George Strait, the resort features a stunning 27-hole golf course often ranked as a “Top Ten Texas Course,” surrounded by spectacular Texas Hill Country views.

1 Resort Way 800-999-3299

7:00 p.m.

Savor fine wines, specialty cocktails, and a fabulous menu within the stunning atmosphere of the resort’s La Cascada dining room while enjoying gorgeous views of the cascading waterfall surrounding the 9th and 18th greens.

1 Resort Way 830-537-3459

Bourne

★

Day Two

8:00 a.m.

Begin the day right with tasty selections from La Cascada’s breakfast menu.

9:00 a.m.

Tee off for a round of golf, relax by the pool and jacuzzi, or head out on the resort’s beautiful 5-mile hike and bike trail.

12:00 p.m.

After a delightful morning at the resort, head over to the Cypress Grille for lunch. Dine within a classy and comfortable environment with homemade cuisine prepared by specially trained CIA and Le Cordon Bleu Chefs.

170 South Main Street 830-248-1353

1:30 p.m.

Keep the Old West alive with your experience at an authentic western movie set and 86-acre working ranch at Enchanted Springs Ranch.

The ranch has been the preferred setting for numerous fi lms and music videos.

Voted by Oprah as one of the best “Family Attractions,” experience early Texas culture, an old west theme park, chuck wagon dinners, and exotic animals.

242 State Highway 46 West 830-249-8222

4:00 p.m.

Shop and enjoy Second Saturday Art and Wine, “the best kept secret east of Santa Fe,” taking place the second Saturday of each month.

Stores stay open late and the participating fine art galleries offer complimentary beverages and hors d’oeuvres. Visit www.secondsaturdayartandwine.com for participating galleries.

6:00 p.m.

End your Boerne weekend getaway with fine dining at the Little Gretel.

Experience authentic Central European culture with a blend of unique cuisine from Germany, Austria, Hungary, and the Czech Republic. The family-owned restaurant invites you to celebrate their Czech heritage while savoring delicious menu items, many of which are made with ingredients from the restaurant’s on-site vegetable and herb garden.

518 River Road 830-331-1368

TexasLiVE | Volume 6 Issue 4 13

Stomping

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Forty cars and locomotives, two Texas Landmark structures and more than 5,000 related artifacts make up the extensive collection and archives of the Museum of the American Railroad. History buffs will also enjoy viewing the most intact, original Pullman sleeping car fleet in the nation.

The

Museum of the American Railroad More Than 4,500 Tons of Railroad History Moving to Frisco

T

he development and prosperity of our nation are inextricably tied to the railroad. The Museum of the American Railroad, which is currently being relocated to Frisco, is bringing the history of the railroad to life. Founded in 1962, the Museum of the American Railroad is a not-for-profit Texas corporation dedicated to celebrating the heritage and exploring the future of railroads through historic preservation, research, and educational programming. The museum has collected artifacts and archival material from the railroad industry

14 Volume 6 Issue 4 | TexasLiVE | texaslivenetwork.com

to exhibit and interpret their significance in American life and culture. Exhibits and general programs are provided year-round.

Educational programs are also available to local schools and universities.

The entire collection amounts to 100 years of a nostalgic look at the trains that once built our nation. The museum will open with an outdoor exhibit in December. • l l www.museumoftheamericanrailroad.org

Stomping

GROUNDS tra vel texa s

The Texas Mushroom Festival

K

nown as “The Mushroom Capital of Texas,” Madisonville is preparing for its 11th annual Texas Mushroom Festival Saturday, October 27. To kick off the festival, guests are invited to celebrate in style at the 2012 Gala Dinner, Friday, October 26. Beginning with a champagne social at 6:30 p.m., followed by a dinner and auction, the evening is sure to be a fun time for all as guests sip on wines from participating wineries and savor a multiple-course meal. Tickets are now on sale for $100. More information and a peek at the evening’s menu can be found on the festival’s website.

Saturday’s festivities will begin at 10:00 a.m. with an opening ceremony. Taking place at the courthouse square and surrounding areas and streets, the events for the day will include mushroom cooking demonstrations by professional chefs, wine tastings, a car show, mushroom growing demonstrations, a quilt show, a 5k run/walk, a children’s area, a photography contest, a petting zoo, pony rides, musical entertainment, and hundreds of vendors.

Admission tickets for the 2012 Cooking Showcase are $20. Fees cover access to the event, tastings of chef-prepared mushroom recipes, a commemorative wine glass, t-shirt, and five tickets to sample the 2012 selected

Known as “The Mushroom Capital of Texas,”

wines. Seven of the best chefs in the Brazos Valley will be cooking up a storm as they prepare 500 samples to compete for the grand prize and crowd-favorite Monterey Mushroom recipe. Guests can enjoy wine as they stroll through a broad selection of food samples. For more information about the Cooking Showcase, other fun events taking place at the festival, registration forms, lodging, and more, visit the Texas Mushroom Festival website. •

Madisonville is preparing for its 11th annual Texas Mushroom Festival Saturday, October 27.

l l Madisonville’s Texas Mushroom

Festival October 26 & 27 texasmushroomfestival.com

TexasLiVE | Volume 6 Issue 4 15

Stomping

GROUNDS u n i q u e l y texa n

The

Kolache Twins

BY MARTHA DEERINGER

W

earing white baker’s aprons and caps, Jody Powers and her twin sister Judy Routh of Calvert, Texas, kick up their heels in a Czech dance in the street outside Jody’s shop, Zamykal Gourmet Kolaches, waving towels and singing the Zamykal Kolache song. Their performance lures travelers to stop and taste authentic pastries made from an heirloom recipe their grandmother brought from Czechoslovakia to Texas over a hundred years ago.

At 12:30 a.m., when most of us are turning over in bed and pulling the covers up a bit, Jody begins her day. She works all night to produce pastry as light as a spring breeze filled with thirty exotic fillings, from traditional peach, judged Grand Champion at the Westfest baking contest in 2010, to Key lime and pecan pie kolaches. Each of the 300 kolaches she makes daily is the work of an artisan, a completely hand-made confection of unsurpassed delight. When the sun puts in an appearance, Jody has just enough time left to rush upstairs to feed her dogs and take her vitamins before the shop opens at

16 Volume 6 Issue 4 | TexasLiVE | texaslivenetwork.com

7:30. Her sixteen-hour days (She bakes for eight hours at night and then works in the shop for another eight hours.) testify to the energy she puts into her business.

The shop is a dream-come-true for Jody, who first fell in love with Calvert, a tiny town with the third largest historic district in Texas, while working in a business management position in Dallas. The town’s quaint charm and Jody’s Czech heritage mingled and an idea germinated, which finally took root in 2004 when Zamykal Gourmet Kolaches opened for business.

Judy joined the team in 2011 at a critical point when Jody desperately needed more help. Selling her house in Huntsville, Judy took a leap of faith and moved to Calvert to work for a small salary and a part of the business. She has never looked back.

From Thursday through Sunday the shop is open and crowded with customers.

Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday are shopping and shipping days, when the twins buy supplies, take care of accounting and cleaning duties, make homemade fillings, and send out orders from their website at www.zamykalgourmetkolaches.com.

“Grandmother Zamykal never wrote her recipe down,” Jody explains. “I learned to bake these traditional Czech treats from Aunt Agnes, Grandmother’s second eldest daughter, who had committed the recipe to memory. Even though I wrote down every word she said, it took me years to learn to FEEL when the dough is exactly the right consistency. The success of Grandmother Zamykal’s recipe is 50% pure natural ingredients and 50% technique.”

The Kolache Twins celebrate their Czech heritage with unique products.

Creamy old-fashioned fudge and angel food cakes compliment the quiches, kolaches, and klobasnikies (pigs in a blanket) that have lines forming at the door by 7:30 a.m. The shop, located in an historic building on Calvert’s main street, is unabashedly Victorian, from the intricate gingerbread on the front porch to the handmade Victorian

“Even though I wrote down every recipe, it took me years to learn to FEEL when the dough is exactly the right consistency.”

~ Jody Powers

Every morning, twins Jody and Judy kick up their heels in a Czech dance in the street outside Zamykal Gourmet Kolaches in Calvert. Their performance lures travelers to stop and taste authentic pastries made from a recipe their grandmother brought from Czechoslovakia over a hundred years ago.

dresses displayed inside. The dresses are another example of Jody’s handiwork.

Antique glass display cases bulge with an amazing array of pastries. Traditional fruit flavored kolaches compete with such exotics as raspberry truffle, Bavarian cream, coconut and chocolate cheesecake, making selection as difficult as choosing a new puppy from a large litter. Although the word kolache means “small cookie” in Macedonian, Zamykal kolaches are more like puffy pillows surrounding homemade fillings that tempt customers to taste “just one more.”

The shop’s reputation and the high spirits of Jody and Judy spawned an expansion into the historic building next door, now in progress. The extra space, soon to be known as The Carrousel Room, is a party facility that will give customers a space to sit by the fireplace and enjoy incomparable Zamykal confections amid antique Victorian furniture and décor. Opening in October, the Carrousel Room will host parties, weddings, and other group get-togethers. “I want to give my customers lots to look at while

they eat, a delightful overall experience,” Jody says.

Near the end of the day (the shop closes at 4 p.m.), Jody employs her favorite marketing technique to reduce the remaining inventory. She steps into the street in front of her shop and bursts into song, adding a Czech dance step of two, and the last few pastries disappear like the dew on an August morning.

Grandmother Zamykal must be smiling in Heaven. Her granddaughters have successfully turned a traditional wedding pastry into a thriving business that showcases their proud heritage. “Our kolaches freeze fabulously,” Jody says. “Some day in the future, I dream that we’ll bake 3,000 kolaches a day and that our customers will be able to pick them up in the frozen food section of their local grocery stores.” • l l Zamykal Gourmet Kolaches

709 Main Street, Calvert, TX 77837 979-364-2386 PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHLEY DIAMOND SIEGERT

TexasLiVE | Volume 6 Issue 4 17

S P E C I A L

P R O M O T I O N

Carmine âœŞ

The Gateway to

18 Volume 6 Issue 4 | TexasLiVE | texaslivenetwork.com

A

o

★ Fun Fact

The Carmine Bank was robbed in the 1930s by Bonnie and Clyde’s associates Raymond Hamilton and Gene O’Dare.

Antique Country Where to Shop:

T

he little town of Carmine is right on the beaten path. Located directly between Houston and Austin on Highway 290, Carmine (pronounced “kahr MEEN”) is the perfect mid-way stop for travelers and antique shoppers. “Many people stop here for a break and then they keep coming back when they see what we have to offer,” explains Vicki LaRue of the Economic Development Committee. “We have a beautiful shaded park for the kids or the pets to get some fresh air, and we have galleries, antique stores, and other treasure troves for shoppers.”

When you pair that with good food and some of the friendliest folks you’ll ever meet, Carmine is an easy choice.

Like much of Fayette County, Carmine has become a haven for artists, designers, >>

★ D&T Antiques ★ Hour Glass Trading Co. ★ Jayne’s Place Antique Mall ★ Emily & Company ★ Hill Country Collectibles ★ Texas Trash & Treasures ★ Neese’s Antiques & Collectibles ★ Stoney Creek Antiques ★ Unique Antiques ★ West of Brazos Trading Co. ★ Burt’s Birdhouses ★ Carmine Feed & Fertilizer ★ Trendy Chicks Boutique ★ PJ Hornberger Folk Art Gallery

Where to Stay:

★ Pecan Grove Inn ★ Sugar Hill B&B ★ Aunt Clara’s Guest House ★ Dixieland RV Park

Where to Eat:

★ JW’s Steakhouse ★ Crooked Floor Café ★ 4G Convenience Store ★ Village Market

Worth a Visit:

★ Texas Basketball Museum ★ Carmine Train Depot & Museum ★ Muehlbrad-Albers City Park

TexasLiVE | Volume 6 Issue 4 19

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and antique dealers. With the best antique shows in the country sprawling over the surrounding area, Carmine touts itself as the “Gateway to the Antique Festival.” But Carmine’s antiques aren’t just on the roadside a few times each year—many of the historic buildings now house antique stores that are open year-round. With an eclectic blend that ranges from fine furniture and rare pieces, to the repurposed “junk” that is turned into unique art, there is something for everyone in search of treasures. • l l For more information, visit www.carminetx.com.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATALIE LACY LANGE

The community takes pride in its history and is home to two museums: The Carmine Train Depot & Museum and the Texas Basketball Museum.

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P R O M O T I O N Henkel Hall, an 8,000-square-foot building located beside Haw Creek Church, will be available upon completion in late 2012. The Hall will include a full catering kitchen, an entertainment stage, and event parking.

Round Top’s Henkel Square Market

R

Pie Haven Copper Shade Tree

ound Top is famous for antique festivals, but on any given weekend, a drive to this quaint central Texas town will treat visitors with a surprising amount of activity. The small town that could be a sleepy, don’t-blink-or-you’ll-missit point in the road has become a destination and center for arts, shopping, and diverse fun.

At the heart of Round Top is the newly revived Henkel Square Market. Shaded by the canopy of live oak trees, this seven-acre parcel is dotted with historic German immigrant structures that now house retail and commercial enterprises. Visitors will find everything from fine art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, and home décor, to delicious pie and a hot cup of coffee. And there’s not a kitschy tee shirt in sight.

In addition to businesses and Round Top’s Visitor Center, Henkel Square is also home to Haw Creek Church, a renovated 1880s structure that serves as a beautiful wedding venue. Conveniently located next to the church is an 8,000-square-foot event center set for completion this winter. •

l l Henkel Square Market

Beth Anderson Gallery

Haw Creek Church

henkelsquareroundtop.com Hours Wed: Noon-4:00; Thurs-Sat: 10-5; Sun: 11-4 PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATALIE LACY LANGE

The mid-1800s Haw Creek Church is a spectacular wedding destination that is surrounded by live oak trees and beautiful landscaping. The church boasts a hand-stenciled ceiling, a pipe organ, and a working bell tower.

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HENKEL SQUARE MARKET

In Henkel Square Market, the whimsical Royers Pie Haven is near its famous café on Round Top’s square. A complete coffee bar, it’s a great place to enjoy sweet and savory pies, breakfast pastries and Amy’s ice cream either inside or out.

The Royer Family 190 Henkel Circle Round Top, TX 78954 979-249-JAVA (5282)

The site that is today Henkel Square Market has been known as “Henkel Square” since Charles L. and Faith P. Bybee, Houston philanthropists and collectors of American and Texas Pioneer antiques purchased the 7-acre parcel in the late 1960s. Since the 1800s, it was a both a residential and commercial area. Numerous pictures exist that show the Square as the commercial/ residential center of Round Top life. The Bybees saved German immigrant structures and artifacts from Round Top and surrounding areas, establishing a Museum Village under the stewardship of their Texas Pioneer Arts Foundation.

Today, Henkel Square has been revived; its buildings saved once again. The entrepreneurial spirit of Texas’ earliest German pioneers seems to have been revived as well, with a host of retail and commercial enterprises calling this beautiful part of Round Top home.

We invite you to take a walk through this historic village to enjoy history and a premier shopping experience.

Copper Shade Tree, an American fine craft destination displays a delightful collection of decorative and functional crafts, all handmade by over 80 American artisans. In addition, six events are scheduled throughout the year, to display a wide range of fine craft mediums by artists of local, regional, and national renown.

Gerald & Debbie Tobola 101 North Live Oak St. (Mailing: Henkel Square Market - 102 Schumann Lane) Round Top, TX 78954 979-249-4127

Moth + Rust features antiques and vintage textiles, as well as archaic curiosities.

Paid for by Henkel Square Market merchants

Ann Weiner 160 Henkel Circle 281-660-4656

T f d m

C 2 R 9

B h d f u p c a

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The Apothecary is now a charming shop that focuses on a huge array of specialty items and décor from The Round Top Collection, and many gifts for both home and garden.

Cheryl Travis 201 N. Live Oak Street Round Top, TX 78954 979-249-5200

Heritage Texas Country Properties specializes in the finest ranch and residential properties in the 5-county area. With its strategic relationship with Houston’s Heritage Texas Properties and offices in Round Top, La Grange, Brenham and Bellville, its professional agents are uniquely positioned to help individuals locate or market and sell premier properties.

Indian Creek features artisan gifts, home decor, seasonal silk florals; silver, gemstone crystal and pearl jewelry; beautiful scarves and enhancers; hats and purses; Caswell-Massey and Gianna Rose bath and body lines; Indian Creek’s own hand-poured candles in over 65 fabulous scents, and potpourri that will beckon you to our porch!

203 N. Live Oak Street Round Top, TX 78954 888-663-6467 Fax 979-249-5506

Debra Tindall 101 N. Live Oak (Henkel Square Market) (Mailing: 108 Schumann Lane) Round Top, TX 78954 979-249-5455

Blue Door Décor is located in this diminutive, historic log cabin. It’s filled with Texas and locally designed and made, one-of-a-kind lamps made from antiques and vintage items, table linens, unique, repurposed antique furniture, decorative pillows and other lovelies for the home. Hand crafted jewelry, solid beeswax candles are also available.

The Men’s Outpost at Indian Creek features a wide array of gifts, clothing and items of intrigue for the outdoorsman. It’s the only shop in Round Top exclusively catering to men.

979-249-5456

Kathy Johnston 192 Henkel Circle Round Top, TX 78954 832-671-7821

Beth Anderson Gallery. Beth is a local painter who is also a master gardener. As such she loves to create still life paintings of bright flowers.

Her impressionistic style beautifully captures the spirit of the Central Texas area. From the dry red dirt roads and black gumbo fields to Fayette County’s famous painted churches, built by early settlers, it’s obvious that the Texas landscape inspires and touches her imagination.

It Fits! Features “Fashions for Real Women!”

Here, a full range of natural fiber clothing, mostly made in the USA, can be found, along with comfy USA sophisticated and fun knits, Ezze Wear everyday cottons, Miraclebody Jeans, Oprah jeans, Bleu Bayou cotton knit tops, Dunes soft breezy cottons, Cheyenne casual linens, and OKA Shoes that are both comfortable and fun. (sizes 16W to 28W)

Beth Anderson 110 Schumann Lane Round Top, TX 78954 979-249-5962

Molly Baldwin Johnson & Robert Barrett 195 Henkel Circle Round Top, TX 78954 979-249-3570 512-787-8679

Weddings

at Texas Ranch Life

the vows

Hill Top Ceremony surrounded

by Centuries-old Oaks or Historic White Chapel surrounded by Antique Roses

the celebration

Beautifully Unique, Outdoor and Indoor Locations for up to 250 First Class Catering and Bar Service for all Tastes

accommodations

Luxury, Historic Homes Sleep up to 60 with Privacy and Elegance

www.texasranchlife.com | 979-865-3649 24 Volume 6 Issue 4 | TexasLiVE | texaslivenetwork.com

Shop • Find Hobbies • Try New Things

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LIVING bu s i nes s p rofil e

Rachel Ashwell’s Bed & Breakfast on the Prairie >> TEXT AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATALIE LACY LANGE

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bu s itheate nes s p rofi r le

L

ike many of the world’s top designers, the Queen of Shabby Chic, Rachel Ashwell, has been traveling to Texas each fall and spring for years to buy and sell at the antique shows. A countryside bed & breakfast located just outside of Round Top became home base for Rachel and her crew for their time in Texas. With stores in the U.S. and London, book deals, and the demands that a successful business brings, Rachel found the old farmhouse and the surrounding cottages set on rolling Texas ranch land to be a welcome change of pace.

When the owner told Rachel she was going to sell the place, Rachel’s attachment to the property led her to purchase it in the spring of 2011. She immediately began infusing her shabby chic style, but she did not want to erase all the traces of Texas. She left some antlers and unpainted wood, but guests can expect lots of natural light, fresh flowers, soft linens, and delicate chandeliers to mingle with the >> remaining rustic decor.

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“I have walked the fanciest streets in the world in cowboy boots and jeans, and now I have a home where I belong. Texas has a big rich soul that touches me deeply, that awakens me, reminding me to be carefree.” ~ Rachel Ashwell

Each cottage on the 46-acre property offers Rachel Ashwell’s unique blending of shabby chic with traditional Texas décor. The Ranger’s Lounge is a beautiful hodgepodge of corrugated tin, salvaged wood, and vintage wallpaper.

TexasLiVE | Volume 6 Issue 4 27

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“I wanted a location that housed the eclectic mix of all that speaks to my aesthetics—rustic, traditional, bohemian, and romantic,” Rachel says. “For me, The Prairie is the perfect place for me to bring together all that I appreciate in life and express my creativity in an environment that feels right. Somewhere beautiful, quiet, traditional, and free.”

The peaceful retreat, which includes multiple cottages and accommodations, makes the perfect country getaway for couples, girls’ weekends, and, of course, antique hunters. A new white barn blends seamlessly with the older structures and makes an ideal venue for weddings, reunions, or other celebrations. As an added bonus, the property also boasts Shabby Chic Couture by Rachel Ashwell, offering Rachel’s signature linens, furniture, and accessories. The cottage that houses Shabby Chic Couture was moved in after Rachel

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bought the property. “One of my friends here called me one day and said he had an old farmhouse that he was bringing me,” Rachel explains with a warm smile. “In New York City, they require a stack of paperwork just to hang a sign, but here in Texas, someone can just make a call and drop off a house.” • l l The Prairie by Rachel Ashwell B & B

5808 Wagner Rd., Round Top, Texas 979-836-4975 theprairiebyrachelashwell.com

Read more about The Prairie online at TexasLiveNetwork.com.

“I wanted a location that housed the eclectic mix of all that speaks to my aesthetics—rustic, traditional, bohemian, and romantic,” Rachel says. “For me, The Prairie is the perfect place…”

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Beatriz Ball Organic Pearl Tray This handmade, medium rectangular tray was designed

by Beatriz Ball to reflect the beauty of nature and contours of natural forms. Pair it with other pieces from their Organic Pearl Collection. Beatrizball.com $96

The Antiquarium Hand Colored Brodtman Folio Printed in 1818, this hand colored folio work by Swiss lithographer Karl Brodtman is available through The Antiquarium, an antique print and map gallery in Houston. Theantiquarium.com $795 each

The Beauty of Handmade

Old and new, these one-of-a-kind pieces are the perfect touch of old-world and hand-crafted brilliance.

Nadeau Furniture Rich, Hand-crafted Sideboard Unique rustic handmade furniture including this six-door sideboard made with glass and rich woods can be found at Nadeau’s three Texas locations.

Nadeauaustin.com Nadeaudallas.com Nadeauhouston.com $829

Kyle Bunting Equestrian Art Chair The Equestrian Art Chair Collection is custom made by Kyle Bunting from Austin, TX. Choose from over ninety hide colors and any custom lacquer frame paint colors.

All art chairs are custom made to order. Kylebunting.com

TexasLiVE | Volume 6 Issue 4 29

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a r ti s t p rofi l e

The Beauty of Bullets

BY HOLLY BERETTO

J

essica Meyer didn’t set out to be a jewelry designer. “I was just playing around,” she says, “making things for me.”

Of course, those things were rings made from bullet casings that Jessica accessorized with diamonds and other gem stones. But as her friends and family members saw her creations—and wanted some for themselves—Meyer began to think she might just have an opportunity there.

That was two years ago. Today, her Bullet Girl jewelry line has been featured in magazines and on television shows coast to coast, and stars like country singing sensation Miranda Lambert have been spotted wearing some of Meyer’s creations.

The rings, bracelets, earrings, necklaces, and other fashion items are all crafted from ammunition blanks that Meyer receives from her grandfather’s munitions factory in Mexico. Because she can’t use live ammunition, she says the factory had to be re-configured to mint the bullets she needs, clipping off nearly 20,000 at a time.

“There’s something so beautiful about taking something that

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many see as a destructive force and turning it into something so stunning,” she marvels.

As she’s grown her business, she’s also worked to increase what’s available. She’s launching a men’s line called Loaded in early 2013 and has a home accessories line in the works.

Over the years, she’s says she’s become savvy about bullet sizes and calibers, fully admitting that when she started she had no idea of the difference between a .45 and a .22. Now, she can rattle off ammunition specs like a pro.

“It’s like they all have their own personalities,” she says. “And there’s a certain look and feel to each one. I’ve loved being able to do this and making new collections, using new stones and finding new finishes.” • l l For a listing of retail outlets where Bullet Girl is available

visit www.bulletgirl.com

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BROOKLYN STUDIO WEST

“There’s something so beautiful about taking something that many see as a destructive force and turning it into something stunning.” ~ Jessica Meyer

Photo by Mark Hammond

Jewelry artist, Jessica Meyer

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e nte r ta i n me nt

T

he Ewings are back. Larry Hagman, Patrick Duffy, and Linda Gray have returned to Southfork as J.R., Bobby, and Sue Ellen Ewing in TNT’s reboot of the series Dallas, and they’ve brought with them a whole new collection of secrets, schemes, and betrayals. The explosive rivalry between brothers J.R. and Bobby now lives on through another generation, with the future of the family fortune in the hands of the Ewing offspring: cousins John Ross Ewing, the son of J.R. and ex-wife Sue Ellen, and Christopher Ewing, the adopted son of Bobby. After a successful pilot season, the ruthless rivalries and Texas-sized power struggles within the oil and cattle-rich Ewing dynasty are ready to heat up with second season beginning in January.

32 Volume 6 Issue 4 | TexasLiVE | texaslivenetwork.com

Dallas Returns

The Battle for Energy, Power, Love, and Money Rages Again in TNT’s All-New Series Dallas From the very beginning of TNT’s new Dallas, it’s clear the rivalry between John Ross and Christopher is just as fierce as that of their fathers, especially when it involves the love of both of their lives, Elena. The intertwining relationship among the three is a source of constant tension that could eventually tear the Ewing family apart.

With guest appearances by stars from the original series, including Ken Kerchavel

as Cliff Barnes, Bobby’s former brother-inlaw; Steve Kanaly as Ray Krebbs, J.R.’s one-time nemesis; and Charlene Tilton as Lucy Barnes, J.R. and Bobby’s niece, fans can only wonder if Victoria Principal will eventually return as Pamela Ewing.

The show has found a balance between the stories of the new and returning characters that has won a large audience, with most episodes averaging over 6 million

viewers. “Bringing a show like Dallas into the 21st century has been both exciting and daunting,” said executive producer Cynthia Cidre, who took up the challenge of writing the pilot for the new series. “It would have been very easy for the show to devolve into camp or cheap melodrama. But instead, we decided to concentrate on making a smart, passionate family drama told on an epic scale.

We’re especially thrilled to work so closely with the leaders of Dallas in making the city a key character in the show.”

Working closely with the show’s producers and the City of Dallas, the Dallas Film Commission lobbied successfully to make sure there were enough incentives to keep production in the Dallas area. As a result, the new series has been a boon to Dallas and North Texas where the filming is done. Pouring in an estimated $28.8 million, the show has boosted the local economy and civic pride. Set to the same music as the original show, the new series’ opening credits include shots of some of Dallas’s most recognizable landmarks and venues. •

After a successful pilot season, the ruthless rivalries and Texas-sized power struggles within the oil and cattle-rich Ewing dynasty are ready to heat up with a second season beginning in January. The show is filmed in the Dallas area, so viewers will recognize many of the city’s favorite landmarks and venues.

TexasLiVE | Volume 6 Issue 4 33

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b oo k rev i ew

Celebrating Texas Women

BY RAYE GREEN

T

he majority of books which deal with the early history of Texas, both fiction and non-fiction, tell the stories of the men—the defenders of The Alamo and the other heroes who opposed Santa Anna’s army, the Indian fighters who finally whipped the Commanches, the Texas Rangers who brought law and order to the frontier.

These two books celebrate the women of early Texas. Both are fictionalized accounts of actual women, set within the framework of actual historic events. Both undoubtedly include some stretches of truth as to personal actions and motivations, but they both illustrate the staunchness of the Texas women who had to try to “keep the home fires burning” while their men dealt with the challenges of pioneering in a disputed country. •

True Women-A Novel of Texas

by Janice Woods Windle

The title says it all—this is the story of some of the brave women of Texas who held civilization and family together, first working alongside their husbands and then carrying on while their men were away fighting to defend their land. The basis for the stories is the family lore (bolstered by interviews and research) of the author’s maternal and paternal female ancestors, the King family of Seguin and the Wood family of San Marcos.

The first section tells the story of Euphemia Texas Ashby King (the author’s maternal great-great grandmother) and of her sister Sarah, beginning when Euphemia is five years old. A pregnant Sarah, left alone when her husband departs to fight in the Texas War for Independence, has to flee with her little sister Euphemia and her own toddler son from the approach of Santa Anna in the infamous Runaway Scrape. This is the most riveting part of the novel, recounting in some detail the ordeals of cold, torrential rains, swollen rivers, and disease as the groups of mainly women and children flee the wrath and “no quarter” policy of the Mexican army.

The second section concerns the author’s paternal great grandmother, Georgia Lawshe Woods, beginning when she is nine years old and the family leaves their Georgia home because of the persecution and resettlement of Indians, her mother Cherokee being rumored to be half Indian. After settling with her family in Mississippi, Georgia, at fifteen, marries an older man who takes her to Texas, where she faces the challenges of the Civil War. Let’s just say that she does what has to be done.

The third section switches back to the maternal side of the author’s family, to her other great grandmother, Bettie Moss King, the daughterin-law of Euphemia Texas King. Her life is less eventful, because the time and circumstances are less precarious, but she, too, faces challenges—the loss of loved ones in World War I and in the influenza epidemic of 1918, the shame of the Ku Klux Klan, and the loss of grandchildren in World War II. The writing in this novel is very uneven, sometimes poetic and assured and sometimes trite. The historic details are fascinating, but sometimes the history is too detailed to invite interest and sometimes it is telescoped, leaving important pieces out or glossing over them.

Nevertheless, this partly-fictional account of Texas women is well worth reading. It emphasizes the fact that while men go off to fight and perhaps obtain glory and medals and recognition, their no-lesscourageous women are left alone. As one character says, “Why is it men always have to go off to war?...They go off and we stay here, where the hard part is.”

34 Volume 6 Issue 4 | TexasLiVE | texaslivenetwork.com

Love is a Wild Assault

by Elithe Hamilton Kirkland

The title makes this sound like a bodice-ripper romance, doesn’t it! It is a romance, of sorts, but it is also the biographical novel of a true Texas heroine, Harriet Potter, who was a participant in the events of the most challenging days of early Texas, before and after the War for Independence from Mexico.

Author Kirkland was handed the plot of this novel on a silver platter, when she was given the longforgotten manuscript of Harriet Potter’s memoirs (written by her at the age of 83) by officials of the Texas State Historical Association, who asked if she would consider using it to write a novel.

Although she already had several projects in hand, Kirkland agreed to read the account. She became fascinated. Several years and much additional research later, she produced this book.

What resulted is a true page-turner full of love, adventure, courage, hardship, and pain. Harriet’s life encompasses settlement in a shack in a remote area of Texas, where she and her children almost die of hunger; the frenzy of the Runaway Scrape, as settlers flee in wagons, on horseback, and on foot from the threat of the Mexican army during the war; and life in an isolated home on beautiful Caddo Lake following the war, where her only close neighbors are the Caddo Indians. The novel is structured as a message from Hattie to her granddaughter to help her when she comes of age to choose a husband. The book is thus framed around the three men who impact Hattie’s life. She describes them this way: “The gambler…in merchant’s disguise…with the face of a hero.

False spring love. Sudden flower and withered dreams.

“The statesman…duality of dove and serpent…Summer tempest in her heart. Violence and near destruction.

“The trader…the searcher…hands of goodness…eyes of wisdom …All the seasons of love.”

The drama and scandal of Hattie’s life is such that she becomes known and talked about in all the settlements of early Texas, sometimes called a whore and wanton, sometimes called “kishi-woman” (kindred to the Indian Earth Mother), and sometimes called “The Bravest Woman in the Republic of Texas.”

For truth’s sake, I must report that the last two chapters of the book are vastly inferior to the rest of it. Having finished with Harriet’s story, Kirkland switches to the granddaughter as she reaches 18 and to the three suitors for her hand. They are obviously somewhat similar in character to Harriet’s three loves. As she is trying to choose, the granddaughter finds the hidden journal of her grandmother, which helps her make her decision. That is more than a little contrived, an unfortunate conclusion to an otherwise excellent novel.

Nov. 2-3, 2012 Courthouse Square �

�

�

Historical Re-enactments Live Oaks & Dead Folks Cemetery Tour CHPT Homes – Museum Tours

�

Magnolia Belles Presentation

�

Photo Exhibit

�

Miss Columbus Pageant

�

Street Dance

�

Beer Garden

�

Food Vendors

�

Art Vendors

�

Plein Air Contest

Contact the Columbus Chamber of Commerce

979-732-8385 TexasLiVE | Volume 6 Issue 4 35

S P E C I A L

P R O M O T I O N

b oo k rev i ew

Texas Ranch Life

T

exas is known for having a culture all its own. From the northern panhandle to the southern rolling hills, the gulf coast, and the western deserts, Texas’s unique charm and authentic way of life continue to bring visitors from all over the world. Known for its extensive ranches, Texas has one in particular that manages to bring all things together into one good ol’ experience. Texas Ranch Life in Chappell Hill proudly sits on over 1800 acres, centrally located between the state’s major cities. Family-owned and operated by John and Taunia Elick, the working ranch continues to grow, as thousands visit each year to take part in its endless array of fun, ranch-style activities. Whether it’s riding horses through green pastures, cheering on live rodeo performances, savoring gourmet chef-prepared meals, or getting up-close views of the ranch’s livestock and wildlife, Texas Ranch Life is the perfect venue for your next event or retreat.

The ranch is a regular host to corporate events and a unique meeting venue for larger groups. Countless companies have made the ranch their annual meeting place for staff retreats. One company’s

36 Volume 6 Issue 4 | TexasLiVE | texaslivenetwork.com

senior vice president mentioned about his experience at the ranch, “In all the years of hosting management meetings, I’ve never received as much positive feedback as I did from this one.” The ranch’s newest facility, the Event Center, is scheduled to be completed by 2013 and will serve as a fully functional meeting and large event entertaining facility, holding up to 300 people for a seated dinner, and complete with commercial kitchens, additional guest restrooms, a stage and dance floor, and extra designated parking. A swimming pool, outdoor pavilion with wildlife and nature walking trails, a Memorial Botanical Rose Garden, and a game room are also in the plans to be completed within the next year.

Host your next event at Texas Ranch Life and be a part of all the exciting changes taking place. Fun adventures for all await at this world-renowned working ranch resort. • l l Texas Ranch Life

10848 Cactus Lane, Chappell Hill, Texas 77426 979-865-3649, www.texasranchlife.com

CATHY COLE COME HOME TO YOUR HERITAGE Cathy Cole’s clients benefit from over two decades of her experience buying and selling private residences and some of the region’s most spectacular farms and ranches. During that time, she has amassed a record of success that includes 16 Top Producer titles, and the South Central Board of REALTORS® recognized Cathy as their first twotime “REALTOR® of the Year 1997 & 2005.”

Energetic and enterprising, Cathy provides personalized service for buyers and sellers and finds the right property for each client. Her job is only complete when the buyer or seller is satisfied. Cathy treasures each client, but she is especially proud of the dozens of individuals and families who have trusted her to manage their real estate transactions multiple times.

Cathy serves on the Political Involvement Council for Texas Association of Realtors and lobbies in Austin and in Washington DC. She is the only Certified Residential Specialist and Accredited Land Consultant in Washington Couny. Cathy also serves on the Land Use Committee, Professional Standards Committee, Government Affairs Committee and serves as as secretary for the local chapter of RLI. Cathy has also volunteered countless hours to charities to help ensure that Washington County and surrounding areas are a better place to live and work.

• Member South Central Board of REALTORS® (SCBOR®) • Member Texas Association of REALTORS® (TAR®) • Member National Association of REALTORS® (NAR®) • REALTORS® Land Institute Accredited Land Consultant (ALC)

Cathy@CathyColeRealtor.com 888.663.6461 979.836.3633 979.251.0603

AUTUMN

WINE TRAILS

BY JAN ADAMSON

T

here was a time

when Texans made their way around the state by following dusty pathways carved by cattle drives and other wanderers. Today’s Texans can follow roads that are a lot less dusty and that offer great local wines all along the way. The Texas Hill Country Wine Trails are just the place to see a bit of Texas, experience vast vineyards, and taste a bit of wine.

Grape harvest in the Hill Country started in about mid-June and, with the harvest just finishing up, the Texas Wine Month Trail is set for the entire month of October. It’s a true harvest festival with the 32 participating wineries holding special events and tastings and offering discounted wines. All of the wineries are within the bounds of the Hill Country, an area in Central Texas defined by gorgeous limestone hills and streams of sparkling water.

What might have been described as nothing more than a hobby just a few years ago, the state’s wine industry has seen massive growth. According to Texas Tech University’s Wine Marketing Research Institute, Texas had 46 wineries in 2001.

That number grew to over 220 by last year.

The industry now employs about 11,000 people and 1.2 million cases of Texas wine were produced in 2009.

Wine is no small thing to Texas. But then, nothing is small in Texas.

A total of 10 wine trails exist all across the state, but the Hill Country Wine Trails are numerous and the wineries are within an easy, scenic drive of each other. “The Hill Country is famous in its own right and the beauty, tourism, location, and climate add to the attraction,” says January Wiese, Texas Hill Country Wineries executive director.

The Texas Hill Country Wine Trails are just the place to see a bit of Texas, experience vast vineyards, and taste a bit of wine.

>>

TexasLiVE | Volume 6 Issue 4 39

The variety of wines produced is extensive: Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Cabernet, Merlot, Tempranillo, Sangiovese, Tannat, Viognier, Barbera, Malbec, Picpoul Blanc, Muscats, Vermentino, Norton, and Black Spanish.

“Most of those varieties are grown here, but it seems the Italian varietals are doing well here along with the Tannat, Muscats, Black Spanish, and Norton,” January says.

In addition to being a fun outing, the wine trails offer budding oenophiles an opportunity to become even better educated about wine varieties. For a $20 ticket, participants in October’s Texas Wine Month Trail get from one to three complimentary tastes of the wines of their choice at each of the 32 wineries participating, as well as discounts on multi-bottle purchases.

Although most of the wineries are open

all year as well, the October trail coordinates discounts and events during the entire month. And this year, $5 of each ticket purchased will go to local breast cancer screening, treatment, and education since October is also Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

In addition to tasting and touring opportunities, some of the wineries are also holding special events. Singing Water Vineyards is presenting a Saturday concert series throughout the month. Flat Creek Estate has planned a three-course wine dinner, a music festival, and an Asian themed wine dinner. Old and rare wine tastings are planned at Fall Creek Vineyard, and many of the wineries offer picnic supplies for purchase during the October trail. Attendance at special events is coordinated through the individual wineries.

Other trails held throughout the year include the Holiday Wine Trail from November 30 to December 16. Tickets are $60 per couple and participants receive a grapevine wreath and an ornament from each winery visited. The Wine Lover’s Trail is held from February 8 to 17, and the Wine and Wildflower Trail is scheduled for April 5 through 14. All wine trails are self-guided.

“The Hill Country Wine Trail is a great way to experience Texas wine,” says January.

“With 32 wineries, the trail gives you a chance to visit them all and see what they are all about. We want people to walk away from the trail thinking they had fun and tasted some great wines.”

And if the trail gets dusty, you will have ample opportunities to quench your thirst. • PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL PEARY

The Hill Country Wine Trail is a great way to experience Texas wine.

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T

.

Hill Country Wineries Alamosa Wine Cellars Bend alamosawinecellars.com

Perissos Vineyards and Winery Burnet perissosvineyards.com

Becker Vineyards Stonewall beckervineyards.com

Pillar Bluff Vineyards Lampasas pillarbluff.com

Bell Springs Winery Dripping Springs bellspringswinery.com

Rancho Ponte Vineyard Fredericksburg ranchoponte.com

Bending Branch Winery Comfort bendingbranchwinery.com

Santa Maria Cellars Fredericksburg santamariacellarswines.com

Chisholm Trail Winery Fredricksburg chisholmtrailwinery.com

Singing Water Vineyards Comfort singingwatervineyards.com

Driftwood Estate Winery Driftwood driftwoodwine.com

Sister Creek Vineyards Sisterdale sistercreekvineyards.com

Dry Comal Creek Vineyards New Braunfels drycomalcreek.com

Solaro Estate Dripping Springs solaroestate.com

Duchman Family Winery Driftwood duchmanwines.com

Spicewood Vineyards Spicewood spicewoodvineyards.com

Fall Creek Vineyards Tow fcv.com

Stone House Vineyard Spicewood stonehousevineyard.com

Fiesta Winery Lometa fiestawinery.com

Texas Hills Vineyard Johnson City texashillsvineyard.com

Flat Creek Estate Marble Falls flatcreekestate.com

Texas Legato Winery Lampasas texaslegato.com

Fredericksburg Winery Fredericksburg fbgwinery.com

Torre Di Pietra Vineyards Fredericksburg texashillcountrywine.com

Grape Creek Vineyards Fredericksburg grapecreek.com

Westcave Cellars Winery Round Mountain westcavecellars.com

Kerrville Hills Winery Kerrville kerrvillehillswinery.com

William Chris Vineyards Hye williamchriswines.com

McReynolds Winery Cypress Mill mcreynoldswines.com

Wimberley Valley Winery Driftwood wimberleyvalleywinery.com

Pedernales Cellars Stonewall pedernalescellars.com

Woodrose Winery Stonewall woodrosewinery.com

The trail gives you a chance to visit 32 wineries and see what they are all about.

TexasLiVE | Volume 6 Issue 4 41

Down the

ROAD

Over the Virtual Fence —Sharing Old Ideas in New Ways

BY CLOVER AND RACHEL CARROLL

Plus ca change, plus la meme chose “The more things change, the more they stay the same” ~ French proverb

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I

recently found a tattered, homemade cookbook of gathered recipes that my grandmother painstakingly put together from 1920-1940. As I flipped through the pages, I was shocked at how surprisingly similar it was to my Pinterest “boards.” She had gathered bits and pieces of remedies, gardening tips, and recipes and pasted them in little squares and columns into her book.

In the same way, websites such as Pinterest offer an opportunity to lay out information in your own format, Grandmother placed her clippings in different areas of interest. One section is titled “Ways to cook meat,” another “Pies and Puddings, etc.” Page after page is filled with morsels of information that caught her fancy—all filed away so she could easily find them.

American women of one hundred years ago were in many ways in a different world; most lived on farms and in small towns with little or no access to all of the avenues of entertainment and information we take for granted today. Yet not much has changed in the human spirit. Although present-day environments and lifestyles would be largely unrecognizable to the women of the early 1900s, one facet of our lives remains the same­—the desire to connect with others.

The social websites that crop up all over the internet, such as Facebook and Pinterest, (and hosts of others that address specific interests) all attest to this need for fellowship, virtual or otherwise, with like-minded people.

Grandmother’s book was much more than a cookbook; it was a labor of love.

Because spiral notebooks and reams of typing paper were not available in those days, she used what she had—a school geography workbook that she could easily access for pasting cut-out recipes and tips. I wonder if, like me, she scanned the news just before bedtime for ideas that caught her fancy. The main source of her collection was the newspaper shared by many readers in East Texas—The Farm News.

It was a common practice at the time, as Mrs. Bessie Coombes attests in one of Grandmother’s clippings before sharing her pickle recipes. “I started a scrapbook twentyseven years ago of the recipes and remedies from The Farm News. I have two large books filled.”

Women wrote in with questions, helpful hints, and suggestions of ways to stretch food supplies and money—two commod-ities that were in short supply in those days. They >>

TexasLiVE | Volume 6 Issue 4 43

DOWN the ROAD

even shared birthdays with other readers so that they would receive a “letter shower” or quilt blocks on their special day. A story that appeared in Women’s Home Companion in 1945 titled “Grandma and the Seagull,” by Louise Dickinson Rich, captured the whole idea well: “The household page was a wonderful institution. Besides the usual cooking hints and cleaning advice it had a department composed of letters from readers to each other.... Then some of the other ladies who had had the same problem wrote back and told you what they had done about it.... Very often, the problem disposed of, you kept on writing to each other through the column of the paper, telling each other about your children and your canning and your new dining room suite....”

Just as today friends chat over the virtual garden gate, swapping recipes, and sharing

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thrifty secrets, so my grandmother and her friends made the most of the only mode they had for connecting with the women of their world.

Words gave away more than bare facts; it is easy to read between the lines and see their ambitions and hopes as these women created better lives for themselves and their families.

Mrs. Tennie Pearl Lang of Overbrook, Oklahoma, pre-empted her mincemeat recipe with this note, “….I haven’t canned much this year on account of the drouth.

There was very little fruit. I only canned 185 quarts of vegetables. I raised enough pinto beans to last till beans come again next spring. We have three porkers and feed for the winter. So you see we will have our meat and lard for next year. Would be glad to hear from my oldtime schoolmates who used to attend the Keltner School, north of Leon.

You knew me as Tennie Adcock. I would like to find my father’s people, as I have never seen them.”

Coupon-clipping and make-ahead tips are shared via the web today, but the resourceful cook has always found ways to use every bit of food available to feed the family. In her column titled “Meat Recipes for Hog-killing Time,” Mrs. M. L. Alewine reminds readers, “At hog-killing time we should always make a supply of pork sausage.

The trimmings and other small pieces of meat which otherwise might be wasted may be made into good country-made sausage, and there are other appetizing meat dishes that should be made at butchering time, such as headcheese, pickled pigs’ feet, liver pudding, fried brains and pork heart goulash.”

Those are a few recipes that probably haven’t been “pinned” recently!

Then there were the remedies: “Shake the skin out of a fresh-broken eggshell and stick it over a thorn or splinter; let it remain until it dries; soak and remove and the thorn will be easy to pick out. Also good to put over sores to keep out dirt.

When children have whooping cough let them eat sugared honey all the time and it will keep them from choking so badly.

For sorehead among chickens and turkeys; take a little axle grease and mix carbolic acid into it with the finger until it begins to draw the finger; apply to the sores.

One application is usually enough, but if a very bad case use again in about two days.”

Today an online search can dispel urban legends or bad information, and immediate feedback via customer reviews can keep readers safe. This was not so much the case at the turn of the century…I feel sorry for the poor souls who tried this remedy from Maria Baxter of Girard, Texas. She recommends, “If bothered with boils and eruptions of the skin caused from bad blood, eating a large quantity of raisins each day for several days (about a week is best) will greatly if not completely relieve you.”

In southern temperate climates, most Down the Road is a production of The Ranch Road Show, a touring production where music, hometown life and the arts meet at the rural crossroads. www.ranchroadshow.com

meat was smoke-cured before the widespread use of electricity. Mrs. Dewey Sims of Crockett, Texas, shared this recipe she said her family enjoyed: “Cut meat up and let drain overnight on table, with skin up. Make a solution in wash kettle, using 100 lbs of meat, four pounds sugar, eight pounds salt, two ounces saltpeter, one table spoon soda and eight gallons water. Boil five minutes; let set overnight; in morning, wash out a barrel with sodawater; place half inch of salt in it.

Put in meat, with skin down; pour solution over meat and put heavy weight on it, being sure it stays under solution. Let stay in barrel eight weeks, remove, wash in hot water, hang up and smoke with green hickory chips.”

That’s a hefty job, no denying, but it was done with energy, even finesse. That can-do pioneer spirit is heard through the lines of this note sent in by Mrs. J. A. Caldwell of Olustee, Oklahoma. She says, “…I wouldn’t exchange places with anybody. I like the good old West. We have sandstorms, and

like other places we have drawbacks, but I like it. If my old-time friends or relatives see this, please write. My maiden name was Florence Noland. I am asking for flower seeds, any kind; will return the favor.”

Florence was making the best of her new home, and a cheerful heart like hers is good medicine. Ten-to-one says her flower seeds are still blooming out there in the “good old West.”

I bet these ladies would be tickled to death (no pun intended) to know their recipes are still being shared in print. If they were still alive, they’d be forwarding the latest safety tips for moms, or posting pictures of their kids along with Christmas recipes.

Social websites, online coupons, and blogging aren’t some new idea recently created; there’s no real generation gap in the heart of the home. We’re continuing a tradition of those who came before, just using new means to connect. •

Here are a few of the more recipes that are a little difficult to find online. These sweet confections were from a clipping titled “Recipes and Remedies” and may come in handy for the holidays.

Sweet Potato Pie

Boil two good-sized sweet potatoes, and when tender remove the skin and mash; beat the yolk of three eggs light; stir with a pint of sweet milk in the potatoes; add a small teacup of sugar, a pinch of salt; flavor with any desired flavoring; bake as for pumpkin pie. When done make a meringue, top with the whites of eggs and a little sugar; brown a moment in oven.

Fig Custard

Use only thoroughly ripe figs, pull off stems and tough peel next to stems and wash thoroughly. To two quarts of figs add two cups sugar, two egg yolks, well beaten; one tablespoon flour, grated rind and juice of one lemon (or any spice to suit taste). Set on stove and let come to a boil, pour into crust, cover with meringue and brown.

Butter Scotch

One pound brown sugar, 4 tablespoon-fuls molasses, butter the size of an egg, 1 teaspoonful of vinegar. Mix the butter and sugar and put on the stove to melt. When melted, add the molasses and when this boils, the vinegar.

When it forms a hard ball in cold water pour in buttered tins and put in a cool place, Just before it is hard, cut into squares.

TexasLiVE | Volume 6 Issue 4 45

S P E C I A L

P R O M O T I O N

G P

S

G O L FE R S PA R A D I S E

ituated on 2800 pristine acres deep in the heart of Texas lies a playground for Texans, as well as for seasoned world travelers. The JW Marriot San Antonio Resort & Spa and the TPC San Antonio TOUR Golf Courses combine to create one of the most relaxing and rewarding getaways imaginable. The resort truly offers something for everyone desiring a more comfortable Texan vacation or executive experience.

World-class dining, acres of private and exclusive waterparks, pools, and lazy rivers make the perfect setting for families seeking a private getaway. Accommodations and Texas style hospitality fit for royalty welcome travelers from across the globe. The meandering drive out of the city makes visitors think they are miles from the hustle and bustle, when, in reality, the property is just a half hour’s drive from the airport.

The TPC San Antonio has not just one, but two PGA courses, and one of the most

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eco-friendly layouts ever conceived, while taking full advantage of the abundant natural resources, majestic trees, and indigenous flora and fauna found throughout the property, including the adjacent 750-acre nature preserve.

Recently, my husband and I celebrated our 10th wedding anniversary at the JW Marriot San Antonio Hill Country Resort and Spa. We are admittedly novice golfers,

BY RACHAEL HALL

but were eager to take full advantage of the golf experience while on the property. The resort’s massive cedar beams, spectacular lighting, and alluring gardens all added to the resort’s charming Hill Country appeal, welcoming visitors to the promise of a wonderful stay.

We settled into our oversized, comfortfilled room and took in the view. Our enormous picture window overlooked the

>>

REMARKABLE GOLF IS JUST THE BEGINNING OF AN OUTSTANDING MEMBERSHIP EXPERIENCE A TPC San Antonio membership unlocks the door to a world of great golf, dining and entertaining opportunities. From our two championship courses designed by golf legends Pete Dye and Greg Norman, to the well-appointed Clubhouse with Members-only dining and private locker rooms, you’ll find unparalleled service and amenities that fit your business, personal, or family needs. Plus, you’ll gain playing privileges within the PGA TOUR®’s entire TPC Network of private, resort and destination clubs.

SPECIAL OFFER Receive exclusive membership incentives when you join by December 31, 2012.

Learn more or schedule your personal tour by contacting Matt Flory: mattflory@pgatourtpc.com or 210-491-5819 x5816

Please note, membership is by invitation and is subject to approval.

S P E C I A L

P R O M O T I O N

TPC San Antonio is one of only three properties in the country to host two PGA TOUR events each year.

resort’s lazy river, splash pools, and waterslides. We could see young families basking in the sun and splashing in the water. The place never seemed crowded, although the bookings were at capacity. Beyond the waterpark sat perfectly manicured fairways, in stark contrast to the untouched natural raw beauty of the roughs, nestled inside the Cibolo Canyons. Deer casually meandered throughout the property, delighting guests with their presence.

Since we are novice golfers, we’d arranged to take advantage of the PGA Tour Academy. After receiving two days of professional instruction, I would highly recommend the Tour Academy for anyone wishing to improve his or her golf game.

There are many advantages to attending a Golf Academy, but in the case of the TPC San Antonio courses, I think any golfer would benefit from a bit of added instruction.

The TPC San Antonio courses are two of the most challenging courses in the world.

Consisting of the AT&T Oaks Course designed by World Golf Hall of Fame member Greg Norman, and The AT&T Canyons course designed by the iconic Pete Dye, these two courses have been known to make even the most seasoned pro throw a club or two in frustration.

For this reason, the PGA recently decided to amend the course to make some of the holes more player friendly. While the work was based on feedback from the touring professionals, Steve Wenzloff, Vice President of PGA Tour Design Services, noted that it will benefit the resort golfers, as well.

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“What’s good for the TOUR players is good for the resort guests, because the greens will be more receptive to shots hit to the putting surface,” he said. “While TOUR professionals are looking to hit their approach to the correct quadrant of the green, the resort guest is looking to be rewarded for hitting the green.”

I agreed with his comment. My husband and I enjoyed a fantastic two days of golf, accompanied by our own Golf Pro. Although I am a beginner, I do believe the secret to our golf “success” was that we simply set out to enjoy the day. We didn’t keep score; we didn’t try to over-achieve. On this day, we enjoyed the simple pleasure of being outside, taking in the serenity of our surroundings, and enjoying each other’s company. We approached the whole experience as a practice day. When I asked other golfers about their experience on the courses, they whole-heartedly praised the thrill of the course and endorsed it as one of the most challenging, yet rewarding, courses they’d ever played.

“I enjoy playing these courses,” says Michael Cobb of San Antonio, “because they are more challenging than most courses. I can’t hit every green, and I don’t score the best when I play out here, but I get to take shots that are incredibly interesting and fun. I try not to get caught up in the score out here, but to really enjoy the day, the company, the surroundings, and the practice.

After you leave and think about the day, you will really be amazed at the opportunity you had to play such incredible courses.” •

TPC San Antonio is one of only three properties in the country to host two TOUR events each year. The AT&T Oaks Course plays host to the Valero Texas Open on the PGA TOUR and the AT&T Canyons Course is host to the AT&T Championship on the Champions TOUR. TPC San Antonio is a private resort, only accessible to Club Members and guests of the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa. Additionally, TPC San Antonio is managed and operated by PGA TOUR Golf Course Properties as part of the TPC Network.

For information on Stay and Play packages and playing TPC San Antonio, call 210.491.5800.managed and operated by PGA TOUR Golf Course Properties as part of the TPC Network. www.tpcsanantonio.com

Richard Schmidt J E W E L R Y

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D E S I G N

[ Stackable Cuffs ] L a G ranGe , T exas J 1-800-368-9965

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www. ichard chmidt ewelry.com

]

S P E C I A L

P R O M O T I O N

How to Be a

Texans are known for a certain style and way of life. We take pride in knowing what we like and why we like it. Embrace your inner Texan with our guide to some of the best businesses and products that Texas has to o er.

>>

Eat & Drink Like a Texan, page 52 Dress Like a Texan, page 54 Live Like a Texan, page 56

Eat and Drink

Chicken Oil Co.

like a

Bryan

From a gas station to one of the locals’ most cherished burger shops, Chicken Oil Co. has been serving its community since 1977. Items like The Death Burger and their Buffalo Ranch sandwich grace the menu and keep customers coming back for more.

Th e Salt Lick

Ol South Pancake House

Mouthwatering barbeque being served to thousands of folks each week, having been tasted by food connoisseurs from The Food Network, The New York Times, and People Magazine.

In operation for over 50 years, this family www.dixiechicken.com, 979-260-7344 restaurant is a favorite for both locals and for those traveling through from out of town. Buttermilk, buckwheat, and Hopdoddy corn cakes welcome hungry customers in for a hearty breakfast.

Driftwood and Round Rock

saltlick@saltlickbbq.com, 888-725-8542

Luling City Market Houston

If you’re looking for real Texas barbeque, look no further than Luling City Market.

Defined by their grilled meats and signature BBQ sauce, LCM grills everything from brisket, chicken, turkey, and pork ribs to their own home made sausage links. www.lulingcitymarket.com, 887-526-2271

Snow’s BBQ Lexington

Good barbeque, good service, and friendly people have this stand voted Best BBQ in Texas by Texas Monthly. The small town of Lexington has always been known for its Saturday BBQ and Snow’s has the fire going. www.snowsbbq.com

979-773-4640

Fredericksburg Winery Fredericksburg

Three brothers and their families, called the Switzers, own and operate this Texas Winery in the heart of Fredericksburg countryside.

Producing flavorful wines from Texas grapes and vineyards. www.fbgwinery.com,

830-990-8566

Becker Vineyards Stonewall

Texas Hill Country vineyards are complemented by lavender fields and an elegant bed and breakfast on Becker Vineyards property.

Fort Worth

www.olsouthpancakehouse. com, 817-336-0311

Th e Guenther House San Antonio

Breakfast platters, including their Sweet Cream Waffle and towering buttermilk biscuits, have many Texans claiming this restaurant to be one of the top breakfast picks in Texas. www.guentherhouse.com, 800-235-8186

Hulabaloos

Independence Coff ee Brenham

College Station

A true diner in the heart of Aggieland, Hulabaloos is a favorite for students and families alike. Here, home-style breakfast meets a retro atmosphere staffed with friendly people ready to serve you. www.hullabaloodiner.com, 979-690-3002

Alamo Springs Café Fredericksburg

Hidden along small winding roads in the Fredericksburg countryside, Alamo Springs Café is serving up one of the best burgers in Texas. Though this café is hard to find, it’s impossible to forget. www.alamospringscafe.com, 830-990-8004

www.beckervineyards.com, 830-664-2681

With their old school methods and traditions for deep-roasting, Independence Coffee offers exceptional hand-crafted and blended products. Working with thirteen producing countries, the company’s products are available for online ordering and at major grocery markets, such as H.E.B and Whole Foods Market. www.independencecoffee.com, 979-836-3322

Th e Grape Dallas

Recognized as one of the most beloved neighborhood eateries in Dallas for 40 years, dining at The Grape is like stepping into a small European village. The monthly changing blackboard menu offerings feature signature bistro fare as well as eclectic and contemporary creations. www.thegraperestaurant.com, 214-828-1981

Hopdoddy Austin

This fresh, all-natural burger bar exists to bring eaters the best angus beef and homemade buns. Creations like the Greek Burger, the Ahi Tuna Burger, and the Llano Poblano Burger are all found on he menu daily. www.hopdoddy.com, 512-243-7505, 512-467-2337

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S P E C I A L

P R O M O T I O N

Sweet Leaf Tea

Salsa Fuego

McKinney Farmers Market

Brewing tea from Austin since 2003, this sweet tea company is the result of an old family recipe. Childhood friends, Clayton and David, have a Sweet Leaf Tea team ready to continue creating new flavors for a Texas staple: sweet tea.

Tex-Mex is not the be overlooked in the Lone Star State, and Salsa Fuego is serving up some of the best in North Texas. Here, handmade tamales, specialty burritos, and an array of tacos can be washed down with signature fuego cocktails.

Chestnut Square in McKinney comes to life every Saturday morning as it becomes home to local meat, dairy, and produce vendors. Baked goods, fresh pasta, wine, and flowers also make appearances at the market for locals to enjoy.

Hugo’s

Blue Bonnet Café

This Tex-Mex restaurant sits directly in Houston’s metro area where chef Hugo Ortega is cooking up his native cuisine.

This menu plays with simple, fresh dishes and also serves complex and deep entrees, all of which showcase Mexican flavors.

Receiving praise from many national and local publications, Blue Bonnet Café is known throughout the country for their delicious pies and friendly service. The café prides itself on its employees who will joyfully serve its customers a slice of “happy hour” pie, ranging from German chocolate and peanut butter to classics like apple and cherry. www.bluebonnetcafe.net,

Austin

www.sweetleaftea.com, 512-328-7775

Ft Worth

www.salsafuegofw.com, 817-560-7888 Houston

www.hugosrestaurant.net, 713-524-7744

Sulphur Springs Farmers Market Sulphur Springs

Every Saturday through October 27, vendors, artists, and farmers come together to share some of the freshest goods around. www.sulphurspringsfarmersmarket.com, 903-885-7541 Independence Coff ee

McKinney

www.chestnutsquare.org, 972-562-8790 Marble Falls

830-693-2344

Tiff Treats

Austin, Houston, DFW

A dessert made for delivery, Tiff ’s Treats started in Austin and has been circulating surrounding areas since 1999. These soft, sweet cookies are good standing alone, with a scoop of ice cream, or decorated with candies and nuts. www.tiffstreats.com, 512-473-2600

>>

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savoryfinefoods.com TexasLiVE | Volume 6 Issue 4 53

>>

Dress

Sterling Grace Jewelry

Tyler

like a

This faith-based jewelry shop offers a variety of jewelry for men, women, and children. Sterling Grace specializes in Christian jewelry and religious based sterling silver. www.sterlinggracejewelry.com, 903-581-2929

Texas Custom Boots

David Gardner’s Jewelers

Here, master boot-maker Alberto “Gordo” Lozano specializes in replicating conservative styles with top work that is eye-catching and flashy.

Local jeweler, David Gardner, strives to create jewelry that emphasizes creativity and quality. The Gardners are very involved in their community and support several local organizations in the Bryan-College Station area.

King Ranch Saddle Shop

Nellie’s

www.krsaddleshop.com

Austin

www.texascustomboots.com, 512-442-0926

Beck Cowboy Boots Amarillo

“Hand-made boots for the working cowboy”. These authentic leather boots are created by the Beck family, a tradition carried since the first pair was made in 1916.

www.beckboots.com, 806-373-1600

Champion Attitude Boots El Paso

Mingling rich heritage and fresh new looks, Champion Attitude Boots is full of skilled craftsmen making custom boots for all personalities and boot-wearing Texans. www.caboots.com, 915-309-4791

Th e Hat Store Houston

With over 60 years of hand shaping and fitting hats for men and women, The Hat Store continues to provide a quality product in their cowboy hats. Public figures such as George H. Bush, Rick Perry, and Lyle Lovett are among those who have had hats shaped

by The Hat Store. www.thehatstore.com, 713-780-2480

Texas Hatters Lockhart

These hat-makers pride themselves on a history of traditional hat-making as well as on a modern sales approach. With a range from classic and simple cowboy hats to snakeskin and embroidered designs, Texas Hatters has what everyone is looking for. www.texashatters.com, 512-398-4287

Alexander’s Jewelers Texarkana

Here is a business truly born out of a need to celebrate weddings, babies, birthdays, and anniversaries. Looking to provide exceptional jewelry for those occasions has left Alexander’s Jewelers with nothing but a good reputation. www.alexandersjewelers.biz, 903-832-3557

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College Station

www.davidgardnersjewelers.com, 979-268-0800 Brenham

Located in historic downtown Brenham, Nellie’s stands out with its unique mix of eclectic yet classic western styles for women and home decor. They have something for everyone with their creative and bold selections of the most current fashions.

Kingsville

Though starting out as a leather business, the King Ranch Saddle Shop now carries an extensive selection of western wear enjoyed

by Texans all over the state. From jeweled bags to embezzled tops to embroidered boots, this Saddle Shop has it all.

Jon Hart Design San Antonio

www.nelliesbrenham.com, 979-830-1756

High quality products with a variety of fabrics make up Jon Hart’s luggage and bag line. Travel accessories, sporting goods, and business products are also available for purchase at this company.

Donoho’s Jewellers

Paris Texas Apparel Company

The Woodlands

Donoho’s Jewellers promises to offer the finest services to their customers, whom they consider their family in The Woodlands. In their shop, they represent some of the finest brands of jewelry and watches in the world. www.donohos.com, 877-211-0676

Wrangler Jeans

For a Texan, jeans are a must have.

Wranglers can be found at any feed and supply store, at western wear stores, and in general stores such as Walmart. With the first pair made in 1947, Wrangler jeans continue to be worn by the true Texas cowboy.

www.jonhartdesign.com, 210-226-8544 Amarillo, Waco, Houston, San Antonio, Austin, Fort Worth

This is a company out to design a line that celebrates all that is Texas. Paris Texas Apparel Co has stores all over the state where they sell their product of choice: ties. Texan style. www.paristexasco.com, 713-524-2800

Cavender’s statewide

A mecca for western wearing Texans!

Cavender’s carries brands like Justin Boots, Miss Me Jeans, Cinch, Wranglers, and much more, all in support of western wear. www.cavenders.com, 866-826-4865

www.wrangler.com

South Texas Tack

S P E C I A L

P R O M O T I O N

South Texas Tack Brenham

In addition to providing an extensive selection of high quality, affordable products for all of your horse-related needs, South Texas Tack is the leading Western wear and fashion store for South Central Texans.

www.southtexastack.com, 877-789-8225

Baskins Western and Work Wear Statewide

Boots, hats, workwear, and all the accessories that go along with a Texas get-up can be found statewide at any Baskin’s store.

Beginning in the small Texas town of Trinity, Baskins has made its way across the state and their products into the closets of Texans who are truly devoted to their western wear. www.baskins.com

David Gardner’s Jewelers

Maverick Fine Western Wear

Nellie’s

Ft. Worth

Located in the historic Ft. Worth Stockyards, this clothing store has Texans dressed head-to-toe. www.maverickwesternwear.com, 817-626-1129

Sterling Grace Jewelry

>>

Plan your next

adventure in the arts!

Visit our website to find upcoming events, interactive art maps, & more!

www.acbv.org

Arts Council of Brazos Valley 2275 Dartmouth Street College Station, Texas 77840 (979) 696-2787

Facebook.com/BVArts Twitter.com/BVArts

TexasLiVE | Volume 6 Issue 4 55

Live like a

Barns and Buildings Humble

Serving as the number-one builder in

custom barns and homes in the US, father-son team, Joe and Steve Slivinski, have been building since the 1970s creating beautiful, one-of-a-kind barns and barn-homes. www.barnsandbuildings.com 1-800-797-0486

David Weekley Homes Started in Houston

David Weekley Homes is one of America’s most recognized home builders, loved by home owners, and has a place in FORTUNE Magazine’s 100 best companies to work for. www.davidweekleyhomes.com, 218-249-7700

Meritage Homes

Houston, DFW, San Antonio, Austin

They are home builders who have been considered in the top five Texas home builders for several years. Meritage Homes believes in living green, being efficient in home building decisions, and creating a live-in experience with the building of your home. www.meritagehomes.com,

877-275-6374

Pitman Custom Homes College Station

The Pitman family has been building in Texas for over 50 years and proudly has homes under construction in the following areas: Castle Rock, North Forrest, Creek Meadows, and Aggie Acres.

Perry Homes

Houston & San Antonio

With more than 100 designs that fit every lifestyle, Perry Homes is the choice for those looking to build a luxury home in the Houston or San Antonio area.

Jancy Ervin Interior Designer

www.perryhomes.com, 800-247-3779

Texas Casual Cottages by Trendmaker Round Top & Wimberley

Houston’s leading new home builder for over 40 years has “gone country” in a fresh new way. Whether you’re ready to build a weekend getaway or make a move for a more relaxed lifestyle, Trendmaker makes it easy to build a new home in the country. texascasualcottages.com, 979-278-3015

Jeff Watson Homes Austin area

The designers and builders at Jeff Watson Homes take pride in their devotion to customer service. A leading company, Jeff Watson Homes has been serving the area for over 20 years.

www.jeffwatsonhomes.com, 512-518-4090

Southwest Homes Bryan

Awarded Best Home Builder in the Brazos Valley three times, Southwest Homes is keeping it local, serving a 60-mile radius by building beautiful homes in the community. www.txsouthwesthomes.com, 979-822-6055

www.pitmancustomhomes.com, 979-693-6699

Barns and Buildings

Old Bryan Marketplace

Darling Homes DFW and Houston

Three brothers with one passion gives Darling Homes a unique family-owned feel.

They are the recipient of several awards such as “Builder of the Year” and “Best Place to Work” from the Dallas Business Journal and have been serving the area since 1987. www.darlinghomes.com, 888-929-4548

Archetype Designs Kerrville

This custom design firm services the Texas Hill Country with its innovative designs, creative flare, and dedication to strong architecture. Designer Mickey Thompson has over 25 years of construction and design experience, leading him to provide the perfect home for his customers.

www.texashomeplans.com, 830-257-0031

Martha’s Bloomers Navasota

Featured in Southern Living, Martha’s Bloomers is one of the top shops of the South.

Enjoy an all-day shopping and dining experience exploring their Home and Garden store and the delicious Café M. Bloomers.

The Café offers fresh garden salads, sandwiches, quiche, homemade soups, desserts, and more, along with spectacular views of the property’s gorgeous gardens. www.marthasbloomers.com.

936-825-7400 or 936-870-3277

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S P E C I A L

Korel Home Designs

Julie Evans Interior Designs

A family-owned home plan company, Jerry Karlovich strives to meet each specific need of his clients, providing an excellent product and keeping it personal. www.korel.com, 972-769-7500

Specializing in upscale residential design and residential project planning, Julie Evans Interior Designs exists to work with a client’s lifestyle in order to create the ultimate living experience.

Plano

Karen Davis Designer Houston

Interior designer Karen Davis is creating a true experience with her boutique approach to design. She focuses on creating beautiful spaces that are also family-friendly and functional.

www.karendavisdesign.com, 832-321-5322

igner

P R O M O T I O N

Th e Design Firm

Houston and Sugarland

Design expertise and affordable prices come hand in hand with this Houston-based design firm. Styles including Modern, French Country, Traditional, and Contemporary are among those explored by this award-winning firm. www.thedesignfirm.com, 281-494-4433

Jancy Ervin Interior Designer Burton

To create a beautiful and timeless room, Ervin helps her clients find the perfect color, lighting, and accessories. Details and layers are basic key elements that Jancy consistently uses to design her signature spaces. www.jancyervin.com, 979-836-2127

Barbara Gilbert Interiors Dallas

This designer offers services such as furniture layout designs, custom bedding and window treatment, artwork selection, and home staging. These designs all come with Barbara’s style of timeless sophistication with a modern twist.

Austin

www.julieevans.net, 512-330-9179

Studio West Lubbock

At Studio West, the design process involves story-telling, architectural design, and marketing elements. Creating a functional space that is also inspiring to its viewers is important to this company. www.studiowestid.com, 806-749-6162

Willmark Homes Bellville

Although the business was created in 2011, owners John Marek and Brandt Wilke bring over forty years of combined building experience to their newest endeavor of Willmark Homes. Dedicated to quality custom home building, remodeling, and service, they offer a wide range of styles and floor plans, using only the latest home design and technology. www.willmarkhomes.com, 979-733-7597 or 281-960-0048

Nominate your favorite Texas businesses and products! What other categories would you like to see? Email us at texaslivemag@gmail.com.

www.barbaragilbertinteriors.com, 214-641-7897

Old Bryan Marketplace Bryan

Old Bryan Marketplace overflows with charm and quality treasures located in one of downtown Bryan’s oldest buildings.

Guests are invited to stroll through 22,000 square feet of furniture, home accessories, gifts, personalized stationery, fashions, and more. www.oldbryan.com, 979-779-3245

Dawn Hearn Interior Design Austin

Dawn’s designs have been recognized locally and nationally as she has received praise from magazines like Urban Home and Southern Living. www.dawnhearn.com, 512-930-0250

Texas Casual Cottages by Trendmaker

Willmark

CUSTOM HOMEs

742 West Main, Bellville, Texas 77418

www.WillmarkHomes.com

Owners John Marek and Brandt Wilke invite you come and see how over 40 years of experience can give you the quality home your looking for. Build on your own property or have us locate the perfect building site for you and we’ll give you the custom home of your dreams.

979.865.8977 Office | 979.733.7597 - John | 281.960.0048 - Brandt

TexasLiVE | Volume 6 Issue 4 57

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S P E C I A L

P R O M O T I O N

Find the

Unexpected

BY KAY CONLEE

OWNER, OLD BRYAN MARKETPLACE

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I

t was in the winter of 1995 that I sadly looked at Downtown Bryan and knew that it could not stay abandoned and boarded up with few thriving businesses.

The thought became an unexplainable conviction and I began to say, “Downtown is coming back!”

Being laughed at and called “crazy” fueled my passion and love for the City of Bryan and for creating an “alive” store that covered the city block at 202 South Bryan.

From the beginning, God’s hand has guided us through the remodel to the happening place enjoyed each day by so many loyal friends and new faces.

Old Bryan Marketplace opened in 1996 in an historic building constructed in 1906 —22,000-square-feet—with plenty of room to grow. A family place, mother and son working together to bring a wide array of quality furnishings, beauty, eclectic charm, and friendly fun. We call an experience here “collectic” because the store is a timely, no-rules collection of old and new from markets, estate sales, travels and commissioned artists. Currently we have two artisans producing jewelry for us in both Nigeria, the poorest country in the world, and a Navajo man in the Santa Fe area.

My son, Grant, is the creative master of the displays. His thought patterns, creative energy, and the outcome of all that working together amazes me, and I know it is a gift that he uses well.

We buy together at so many interesting places, however, it takes our entire dedicated team to make it all happen at the store. I look around each day at the beauty, the friendships, and the opportunity to be a part of something bigger than our store and know that I am one blessed lady.

Now you know why I can say with assurance that we are a strong resource for unexpected finds to love and pamper yourself or add warm comfortable change to your home.

Explore every corner of the store, enjoy a fine meal at Madden’s, and see the ever-

changing Downtown Bryan area that has grown and changed along with us in the past 17 years.

Oh, by the way, I can’t forget to mention Christmas. Old Bryan Marketplace is the over-the-top Christmas experience in Texas —dazzling, sparkling, jingle, jangle, whimsical—totally full to the rafters with all that is Christmas! • l l 202 S. Main Street, Bryan, TX 77803

979-779-3245 www.oldbryan.com

“We call an experience at

Old Bryan Marketplace “collectic” because the store is a timely, no-rules collection of old and new from markets, estate sales, travels and commissioned artists.” ~ Kay and Grant Conlee

S P E C I A L

P R O M O T I O N TexasLiVE | Volume 6 Issue 4 59

S P E C I A L

P R O M O T I O N

Texas LIVE Magazine:

Tell us about

Barns and Buildings

Barns and Buildings: Barns and Buildings

started building barns in Oregon back in the 1970s and since then we have built barns from California to New Jersey and almost every state in between. We are a family owned business operated by our father and son team, Joe and Steve Slivinski. The two bring timeless techniques, including our Gambrel design passed down from Joe’s great-great grandfather, and work tirelessly to create a custom project for each unique client. Joe and Steve are personally involved with every job; we build from start to finish, along with our thoroughly trained team of craftsmen. Building relationships and working closely with our clients is key to our work of building custom projects. We still receive Christmas cards from everyone we have ever built for.

TLM: What sets you apart from other barn and barn-home builders?

Barns and Buildings: Barns and Buildings

builds every project from scratch. Our competitors ship you a lumber package that does not include roofing, doors, windows, or even the nails to build the structure, while also leaving you to find your own contractor. Barns and Buildings goes beyond this, serving as your supplier, builder, roofer, and everything in between. With all our wood structures, we use the original

designs of yesterday while incorporating the advances in energy efficiency of today.

In addition, Barns and Buildings has one of the best warranties of its kind. A three-year workmanship and Limited Lifetime Structure warranty ensures you will be receiving quality materials and craftsmanship that will last through time. We build barns and barn homes for your children and their children to enjoy for years to come.

TLM: Tell us about the process clients go through when building with Barns and Buildings?

Barns and Buildings: It all starts with an

email. When you contact Barns and Buildings to build your barn or rustic barn home, we immediately start working on a few designs. You can also send us a picture of any home or draw your ideas on scratch paper and our design team can turn it into the “Rustic Barn Home” of your dreams.

Your floor plan is yours to design and for us to make a reality. Once the building process has commenced, your structure is usually completed within 8-12 weeks, depending on the weather. Because Barns and Building specializes in building custom homes, we work with you on every phase of the construction so you are just as proud to own your home as we are to build it.

S P E C I A L 60 Volume 6 Issue 4 | TexasLiVE | texaslivenetwork.com

P R O M O T I O N

TLM: What do you think Texans will

find appealing about building with Barns and Buildings?

Barns and Buildings: Barns

and Buildings has been a Texas-based company for 25 years now and has built all over our state. No matter where you live, there is a barn or barn home in your area that you can tour to see firsthand the quality that goes into every project. Texas clients like that they can put their hands on a finished product and envision what their own home will look like.

They can talk to other Texans that have built with us, even if we built their barn years ago.

All our customers have turned out to be personal friends. Our close one-on-one relationship with our clients through the entire design and building process sets us apart, as we deliver the custom home or barn they always dreamed of owning. • l l Houston, Texas

800-797-0486 http://barnsandbuildings.com

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8:01 AM

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Cathy Cole COME HOME TO YOUR HERITAGE

Look beyond the ordinary… you will find the essence of elegance!

This property boasts a one-of-a-kind and a lavishly restored landmark home and entertainment buildings. Round Top Inn, centrally located four walking blocks to the town of Round Top, has been in continual business for over 20 years with a documented track record of continual and profitable growth.

The rural but sophisticated property includes the Main House, 4 additional Guest Houses and a spacious Retreat Center with a Catering Kitchen.

Several of the buildings are historical land marks, original to the site and date back to the 1860’s.

The spacious living room in the Main House with German stenciled painted floor is a warm and cozy spot with the tall antique glassed windows. The open country kitchen, with big city ways provides a recipe for success. The efficient style, inviting warmth in this large kitchen is perfect for family and friends or visitors. The laundry and office nook are located from the back door toward the kitchen. An owner’s suite is downstairs and is located as a personal retreat.

2 more bedrooms with reading room are located upstairs in the Main House with 2 baths.

The Guest Houses provide sumptuous bedrooms and tasteful antique decor. Situated separately for privacy, all overlooking patios and porches surrounded by a palette of flowers, towering live oak trees and beautifully groomed lawn.

Designed for entertainment, family and friends will delight in a backyard big enough for croquette, badminton, volleyball or for the pool you can add for enjoyment.

The property has a total of 8 bedrooms and 8 baths and 2 1/2 baths. Several Guest Houses have sitting areas and all have porches or decks with rocking chairs.

The Inn has recently undergone an extensive renovation and professional remodeling. The 6 impeccably restored and appointed buildings rest on the lush, one acre property. The entire property is being sold as a “turnkey” Bed and Breakfast operation inclusive of furnishings and all good will.

Cathy@CathyColeRealtor.com 888-663-6461 979-836-3633 979-251-0603

Interiors Gardening Inspiration

Home &

GARDEN

A Table

BY NATALIE LACY LANGE

A

s the heat subsides and the leaves begin to turn, autumn is the perfect time for outdoor dining. Whether it’s your Th anksgiving gathering, a celebration meal, or a relaxed Sunday brunch, dining al fresco makes any meal feel special.

Incorporate natural elements. What you ďŹ nd in your yard or at the park is seasonal and free.

TexasLiVE | Volume 6 Issue 4 63

m

Don’t be afraid to mix and match your tableware; this is an easy way to have enough without using disposable pieces.

m Avoid the awkward “where to sit” conversations by using place cards.

m Check the lighting prior to your

get-together at the time of day you will serve the meal. Try to avoid direct sun unless cold weather is in the forecast.

64 Volume 6 Issue 4 | TexasLiVE | texaslivenetwork.com

m Use orange pumpkins for a pop m Small vases are

easy to arrange but still make a big impact.

of color or white and gray pumpkins for a neutral look. You can also combine them, as shown.

TexasLiVE | Volume 6 Issue 4 65

Home &

GARDEN

a W “ terA w e k

66 Volume 6 Issue 4 | TexasLiVE | texaslivenetwork.com

” Texan ise

Garden Li

BY JAY WHITE

M

y Aunt Sarah has a needlepoint piece on her wall that says, “When the well runs dry, you learn the value of water.” The drought of 2011 was a not-so-subtle reminder of how truly valuable water is to gardeners and yardeners in the Lone Star State. When wells start drying up and reservoirs are depleted, things like bathing and toilet flushing become a whole lot more important than watering yards and gardens. So, when the well starts to run dry, the first thing restricted is always outdoor watering.

The watering restrictions of the past few years are probably a preview of things to come. Population increases and climate change are putting more and more strain on Texas’s limited water supplies. So, if you want to continue gardening in Texas, you are going to have to learn to become a “waterwise” gardener (or get ready to pay dearly for the privilege of not conserving water).

Luckily, there are many things we gardeners can easily do to conserve our precious water. First, since almost all gardens in Texas require supplemental water to survive, learn to water them correctly. Lawns are the most

water hungry thing that most of us grow.

Most plants (including established St. Augustine and oak trees) only need about 1 inch of water per week. Strong, drought resistant roots are built through a single, deep watering (in the morning or late afternoon) every fi ve days. Also, when watering your lawn, aim your sprinklers at the plants.

Millions of gallons of water are wasted each year by sprinklers that water streets and roads instead of plants.

In your beds and vegetable gardens, use drip systems covered in deep layers of mulch.

Drip systems apply water directly where it is needed and the mulch reduces the amount of water lost through evaporation. Plus, mulch keeps plants happy and healthy by moderating soil temperatures and suppressing competing weeds.

Once you have your watering down, start buying plants that require less water. Begonias are beautiful but they have to be watered EVERY day during the summer. The next time you are buying plants, ask to see the “Texas Superstar” plants carried by the retailer. These plants carry a tag that ensures you are buying specimens that have been

O u r Fa vo rite Wate r-w i se Pl a nts Sun Salvia (Henry Duelberg, Victoria) Lantana (Dallas, Chapel Hill Yellow) Plumbago Duranta Firecracker Bush

Shade Turk’s Cap (grows in shade or sun) Columbine Agapanthus Shrimp Plant Fall Asters

exhaustingly developed, selected, and tested to thrive in our arid climate. Earthkind is a program developed by the Texas AgriLife Extension Service that combines modern growing methodology with Texas tough plants that require less water, fertilizer, and pesticides than the standard varieties sold at most nurseries. Gardens that utilize “Texas Superstars” and “Earthkind” will save you time, money, AND water.

I am afraid that the days of unlimited supplies of cheap water in Texas are just about over. If we want to stop the well from running dry, we are going to have to become “waterwise” gardeners. By making a few simple tweaks to our garden practices right now, we can ensure that we will be able to continue growing the lovely yards, beds, and veggies that Texans are known for. • l l Find More Texas-Proof Plants

texassuperstar.com aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/earthkind

TexasLiVE | Volume 6 Issue 4 67

The Clearing

www.clearingretreat.org Phone: 979-885-8121

Relationships Renewed Refreshed Restored

HEAR me, I'm tired of talking AT each other. Why doesn't he LISTEN? He doesn't He doesn't even

even seem to care anymore. I feel so

ALONE. I just need to sort this out . I wish the world would stop and give me

TIME TO THINK. The Clearing is a non-profit organization dedicated to healing, restoring, and refreshing marriages. Providing an alternative to traditional counseling, The Clearing offers Marriage Intensive Retreats to restore love, trust and hope to couples, and ultimately to their families for generations to come. Through these intensive retreats, countless couples have discovered fresh intimacy and purpose as they embark together on new, rekindled journeys.

Located in the serene Texas countryside at the Jordan Ranch in Schulenburg, couples will find themselves participating in the life-changing work of The Clearing Marriage Intensive. Greeted by a compassionate host couple, husbands and wives can escape life’s everyday concerns as they take in the breath-taking views, enjoy the grand yet intimate setting of the ranch’s facilities, refresh themselves in the refuge of the pool or Jacuzzi, savor 5-star gourmet meals, or relax in the privacy of their bedroom, all the while restoring their relationship through the encouragement and counsel of highly trained and experienced professional, Christ-centered therapists.

Every marriage can benefit from and be upgraded by a periodic deep audit. Over thirty hours of counseling are offered in four impactful days as core issues are attended to and couples discover the purposeful, covenant marriage God intended for them. Info: www.clearingretreat.org, Phone 979-885-8121.

“We had tried everything and had almost given up. I literally had divorce papers in my purse, and our 4 day intensive saved our marriage.”

She misunderstands everything I say say. I'm tired of being

hounded. I not sure

she even loves me anymore. The

pressure is getting to me .I wish I could just hideaway somewhere to think this through- Make some decisions.

I just need

TIME TO

THINK.

Restaurant Review ★ Dining Guide ★ Recipes

Taste of

TEXAS i n s ea s o n

Acorn Squash

L

ike other winter squashes, acorn squash has an inedible hard, thin skin and firm flesh.

Because it has a longer growing period than summer squash, it has more time to soak up the sun. The result is a nutty flavored flesh that is sweeter than summer squash. Add acorn squash to your fall menu as a savory soup or simply roasted with butter and sugar. • PHOTO BY NATALIE LACY LANGE

Roasted Acorn Squash Rings Ingredients: 1 small acorn squash 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces Coarse kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper 1/4 cup packed dark brown sugar Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cut the unpeeled squash into 1/2-inch slices and place them on a cutting board. Using a biscuit cutter or cookie cutter, cut out the seeds from each ring. Place the squash rings on a lightly buttered baking sheet. Dot each ring with butter and season with salt and pepper.

Sprinkle a bit of brown sugar over each ring. Bake the squash for 15 minutes. Turn the rings over, dot with more butter and sugar, and bake until tender, 5 to 10 minutes longer. Serve hot.

TexasLiVE | Volume 6 Issue 4 69

Taste of

TEXAS

culinary school

San Antonio’s CIA Protects the Savory Secrets of Latin America

BY TRACY BEGLAND

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D

edicated operatives. International secrets. from professionals to novices that have never set Personal relation-ships with foreign assets in foot in a kitchen, Mexican or otherwise. The day the field. The CIA in San Antonio conducts starts early with a continental breakfast at 6:30 a.m. an important operation on foreign soil. Its mission Promptly at 7:00, Iliana begins her lecture on a lies not in the chaotic Middle East. The objective is Mexican staple: corn. The discussion includes corn’s closer to home on friendlier soil: unravel the secrets domestication, masa preparation, and masa-based of Latin cuisine from Veracruz to Patagonia. recipes. The enthusiastic chefs move to the kitchen San Antonio’s CIA (Culinary Institute of to mix their own masa, and then convert the corn Chef instructor Iliana de la Vega America) opened its doors in 2008. This southwestdough into tortillas and tamales. “It’s like play doh ern branch serves as the third campus of the prestigious East Coast for them because they can make many different things with the same cooking school established in the 1940s. The school counts Anthony ingredients.” The next day Iliana shares her extensive knowledge of Bourdain, Cat Cora, and Dean Fearing among its famous alumni. chiles. Participants learn traditional techniques to dry roast fresh Though chefs learn classic culinary techniques at the San Antonio chiles. They incorporate the fragrant peppers into chili rellenos, salsa, school, the former Pearl Brewery campus is entrusted with its own and guacamole. Regardless of the topic, each day concludes with the unique assignment—to preserve and disseminate Latin American rich reward of sharing the session’s creations with classmates. cuisine. The complex includes an indoor Latin teaching kitchen along Iliana offers tips for home cooks, encouraging them to try authenwith an outdoor cooking pavilion with a wood-fired clay comal, a tic dishes and methods. (See her recipes below.) “Mexican cooking is parrilla grill, and an in-ground barbacoa pit. Both professional chefs about tasting everything. Taste the tomatoes. Some are sweeter; some and home cooks master the indigenous cooking techniques of Latin are juicer. Fresh ingredients are not consistent like canned food, but America. they provide the most flavor.” She says the hardest transition for cooks Chef instructor Iliana de la Vega, a Mexican/Latin Cuisines north of the border is the proper salting of Latin cuisine. “Mexican Specialist, has taught traditional Mexican cooking techniques for cooks salt at the end of cooking. We use very fine ground salt, not the more than fifteen years. Born in Mexico City, Iliana learned to cook coarse grind. Great Mexican food isn’t salty, but it is never under from her Oaxacan mother. “My passion is chiles, and everything salted.” Iliana says to reproduce Latino or any other authentic cuisine, related to chiles.” Her Austin restaurant, El Naranjo, features her try to understand the techniques used. “Why do we dry roast tomatoes world-renowned moles. Iliana, 52, enjoys teaching time-honored for mole, salsa, and soups? The vegetable’s sugars caramelize to Mexican cuisine, which has been mostly unexplored in the United strengthen the flavor.”

States. “When students try the real Mexican cooking, they feel like Though Iliana says she doesn’t mind seeing new interpretations they are discovering something new.” of her native country’s cuisine, she firmly believes in the value and The CIA offers two-day and five-day “boot camps” to learn preservation of authentic Latin American cuisine. “It is food you will traditional Latino cuisine. This week Iliana leads “Mexican Cuisine remember. It stays in your mind and palate. It’s a cultural experience Boot Camp: Mexican Favorites.” The skill level of her students ranges that remains in your senses.” • Salsa Verde Cruda Con Aguacate

Uncooked Tomatillo and Avocado Salsa Recipe courtesy of Iliana de la Vega • Yield: 1 cup 2 jalapeño chiles, stems removed, sliced in half lengthwise 10 tomatillos, husks removed, quartered 1 garlic clove, peeled

1/4 small white onion Salt, to taste 1/2 bunch cilantro, sprigs 1 small avocado

Place all ingredients except the cilantro and avocado in a blender. Process until smooth. Season with salt, add the cilantro and avocado and briefly blend until smooth.

Note: the salsa can be made up to six hours prior to serving.

To prevent oxidation, cover the salsa with plastic wrap and press the plastic into the surface of the salsa.

Experience the San Antonio CIA | Try the challenge of boot camp, or just cozy up with a French pastry at The CIA Bakery Café while observing students in the teaching kitchen. You can also enjoy fine dining at The CIA’s NAO Restaurant featuring modern interpretations of Latin ingredients. www.ciachef.edu/texas

TexasLiVE | Volume 6 Issue 4 71

A scant mile from a southern edge of downtown Houston, Elgin turns into Westheimer as it heads west.

Its tight four lanes curve slightly each way while cutting through the heart of the still-eclectic Montrose neighborhood.

In the mile-and-a-quarter to Dunlavy, there are over thirty restaurants.

This is lower Westheimer, Texas’s top restaurant row.

Lower

Feast

WESTH EIM ER The Top Restaurant Row in Texas

BY MIKE RICCETTI

A

s metro Houston continues to sprawl in nearly all directions, a growing concentration of residents and tempting diversions cluster in the city’s core. It is just in the past decade that this became a restaurant nexus, culminating in four highly anticipated openings in a three-month span early in 2012. Today, the restaurants run from inexpensive to as pricey as Houston gets, and serve over twenty different cuisines. Even the area’s best-reviewed food truck—or cart, in this case—is regularly parked here.

Ten of the most celebrated and interesting spots from east to west begin with Feast at

72 Volume 6 Issue 4 | TexasLiVE | texaslivenetwork.com

219 Westheimer. Situated in an inviting former house, Feast serves modern British fare with a penchant for offal. The kitchen uses excellent local and regional products and exhibits a deftness with flavors and textures to make seemingly odd or unfamiliar—or British—dishes broadly appealing.

Feast has deservedly garnered national attention, including notice from former New York Times restaurant critic Frank Bruni, who wrote that it has “no real peer in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles and other major cities.”

Marco Wiles runs a trio of acclaimed Italian restaurants along lower Westheimer,

including Dolce Vita at 500 Westheimer. It features excellent Italian-esque pizzas, plus small plates of pasta and antipasti, complemented by an all-Italian wine list. The well-manned, traditional wood-fired oven produces pies with thin and delectable crusts that are judiciously topped with first-rate pan-Italian accompaniments. A small divider separates its small parking lot from that of fine-dining Indika, housed in a modern stand-alone structure, which moved here from the west side several years ago.

Arguably the top Indian restaurant in the city, it is certainly the most progressive.

An import of Austin’s top restaurant, Uchi, opened in early 2012 at 904 Westheimer. Proprietor Tyson Cole partly grew up in The Woodlands, and this home-coming

of sorts has been a smash hit from the start.

Uchi has lived up to the considerable pre-opening press to wow locals with its take on modern Japanese cooking. Inspired, exacting, and still approachable, the constantly changing seafood-heavy menu features impeccably high quality fish and other foodstuffs. It is much more than the city’s most noteworthy stop for sushi.

Across Montrose Boulevard at 1100 Westheimer is one building housing two new concepts. The Hay Merchant fills the eastern half with comfortable, industrial chic décor. With an ever-evolving assortment of about eighty carefully chosen draft beers—including a number from Texas— this is one of the most serious bars anywhere dedicated to small American breweries. Its top-notch kitchen offers some levity and options beyond the familiar salty and fried dishes that are traditionally paired with beer.

Its building-mate, Underbelly, is from Chris Shepherd, the 2010 Houston Culinary Awards Chef of the Year. Proudly local, it incorporates not just products but flavors from the disparate cultures that are part of the Houston mosaic, the most diverse city in the country. Vietnamese fish sauce, Korean kimchi, Japanese soba noodles, Central European borscht, Southern grits, and much more are combined in non-traditional ways.

It all succeeds grandly. Eschewing appetizers, sides, and salads for savory items, Underbelly just offers plates—and bigger,

The Hay Merchant

Photo: Alex Gregg

As metro Houston continues to sprawl in nearly all directions, a growing concentration of residents and tempting diversions cluster in the city’s core.

>>

Underbelly Photo: Julie Soefer

Photo: Julie Soefer

TexasLiVE | Volume 6 Issue 4 73

Photo: Patrick Bertolino

Hugo’s

Mark’s

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shareable plates at dinner. This is one of the most unique restaurants to open in a while.

A few blocks west at 1424 Westheimer is Anvil. Popular as it is proficient, Houston’s first bar dedicated to artisanal cocktails earned its proprietor a James Beard Award nomination in 2011. Just around the corner, as Westheimer bends to the right, sits Da Marco and the luxury vehicles that crowd its parking lot, Marco Wiles’ temple to Italian gastronomy. Very adept at replicating trattoria and ristorante preparations, mostly from the northern regions of Italy, Da Marco currently sports the top food score from the Zagat Survey.

A little over a block west is the city’s most lauded Mexican restaurant, upscale Hugo’s, at 1602 Westheimer, serving modern preparations taking inspiration from throughout Mexico. Last, just before Dunlavy at 1658 Westheimer is Mark’s, which has been regarded as among the finest in the city since opening in 1997, a pioneer in the neigh-

Some other restaurants on lower Westheimer to visit: Jeannine’s Bistro Belgian

106 Westheimer 713-874-0220 jeanninesbistro.com L’Olivier French

240 Westheimer 713-360-6313 lolivierhouston.com Roots Bistro Anvil Photo: Alex Gregg

The top ten on lower Westheimer: Feast

Underbelly

219 Westheimer

1100 Westheimer 713-528-9800 underbellyhouston.com Anvil

Modern British 713-529-7788

feasthouston.com Dolce Vita Pizza / Italian

500 Westheimer 713-520-8222 dolcevitahouston.com Indika Modern Indian

borhood. Chef Mark Cox’s intricate New American cooking garners the second highest Zagat food score and remains a special occasion destination.

These are just ten of the many worth a visit along lower Westheimer. You can even easily walk among several for cocktails at one place, entrées at a second, and desserts at a third, and become one of those rarest of Houstonians, a pedestrian. •

516 Westheimer 713-524-2170 indikausa.com Uchi Japanese

904 Westheimer 713-522-4808 uchirestaurants.com/houston The Hay Merchant Beer Bar

1100 Westheimer 713-528-9805 haymerchant.com

New American

Cocktails

1424 Westheimer 713-523-1622 anvilhouston.com Da Marco Italian

1520 Westheimer 713-807-8857 damarcohouston.com Hugo’s Mexican

1602 Westheimer 713-524-7744 hugosrestaurant.net Mark’s New American

1658 Westheimer 713-523-3800 marks1658.com

American

507 Westheimer 713-524-1000 rootsbistrohouston.com Aladdin Middle Eastern

912 Westheimer 713-942-2321 aladdinshouston.com Little Bigs Hamburgers

2703 Montrose (just north of Westheimer)

713-521-2447 littlebigshouston.com BB’s Café Cajun

2710 Montrose (just north of Westheimer)

713-524-4499 bbscafe.com El Real Tex-Mex

1201 Westheimer 713-524-1201 elrealtexmex.com Poscol Italian

1609 Westheimer 713-529-2797 poscolhouston.com

TexasLiVE | Volume 6 Issue 4 75

Taste of

TEXAS reci p es

Flavors o Fall

Fall Recipes by Food Blogger Tina Butler

F

amily foodie Tina Butler makes old-fashioned home-cooked meals a priority. A wife and a mother of three, Tina creates meals that are simple, delicious, and perfect for bringing her family together at the table.

Tina’s philosophy:

“I have always been obsessed with recipes and cooking for as long as I can remember.

I remember sitting on the porch as a little girl jotting down recipes from my mother and magazines, saving them to keep for the future when I had my own family.

Fast-forward to today. My children range in ages from 8 to 18 and share the same joy of cooking as I do.

I try my best to get them involved in the kitchen as much as possible. I am thankful that my mother taught me how to cook at a very young age, so I want to do the same for them.”

★ Apple Pie Bread is a dense quick bread with a delicious crunchy brown sugar topping. This recipe combines all the flavors of an apple pie in bread form. The longer the apple pie bread sits the better it tastes. This is the perfect recipe to make when you have an abundance of fall apples.

Apple Pie Bread

1/2 cup butter, softened 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1/2 cup packed brown sugar 1/3 cup buttermilk 2 teaspoons baking powder 2 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon apple pie spice 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 cups peeled apples, diced 3/4 cup pecans, chopped streusel nut topping (recipe below)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease the bottom and sides of a 9x5x3 inch loaf pan. If using a glass loaf pan bake at 325 degrees. In a large bowl beat the butter and sugars together until combined.

Add the buttermilk and baking powder and beat until combined. Add eggs and vanilla and beat until combined. Add flour, apple pie spice, and salt; beat until combined.

In a separate bowl toss the apples and nuts in a bit of flour before adding to the batter. Fold in the nuts and apples by hand. Spoon batter into prepared pan and spread evenly. Prepare the streusel topping and sprinkle over the batter.

Bake for 50 to 60 minutes or until a wooden toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool bread in pan for 10 minutes remove and cool completely on a cooling rack. Wrap in plastic wrap and let the bread sit overnight before cutting. This will prevent the bread from crumbling as well as infuse the flavors.

Streusel Nut Topping

1/4 cup packed brown sugar 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 3 tablespoons flour 2 tablespoons butter, softened 1/3 cup pecans, chopped

76 Volume 6 Issue 4 | TexasLiVE | www.texaslivemag.com

In a small bowl combine the brown sugar, cinnamon and flour. Using a pastry blender or fork cut in the butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in walnuts or pecans.

Recipe Yields: 1 loaf

When I visit my mother-in-law during the fall season, she always has this delicious fresh apple cake gracing the kitchen counter. Mom doesn’t add the yummy vanilla glaze, but I think it really takes this apple cake over the top.

Mom’s Fresh Apple Cake

3 cups apples, cored, peeled and chopped (Golden Delicious or Granny Smith) 3 cups all-purpose flour 2 cups sugar 3 eggs 1 cup canola oil 1/2 cup apple juice or milk 1 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 teaspoon vanilla 2 teaspoon cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg 1 cup pecans, halves, separated Icing (recipe below) Preheat oven to 350-degrees; grease and flour a Bundt pan. In a large bowl, toss apples with flour to coat.

Add remaining ingredients and stir to combine. If using nuts break the pecan halves into pieces and add to the batter (save about 10 pecan halves for garnish).

Pour the mixture into prepared pan; make sure to spread the mixture evenly.

Bake 50 to 60 minutes, or until a cake tester comes out clean.

Let cake cool in pan 15 minutes before removing to serving plate. Drizzle cooled cake with icing and garnish with pecans.

Icing Recipe 2 cups powdered sugar 2 tablespoons milk 1 teaspoons vanilla extract Place powdered sugar, vanilla and milk in a bowl and mix together until smooth.

If the glaze is to thick, add milk one teaspoon at a time until the mixture reaches desired consistency.

Cook’s Note: 2 loaf pans can be substituted for a Bundt pan.

These scrumptious Butterscotch Pumpkin Muffins only require three ingredients: a cake mix, canned pumpkin, and butterscotch chips.

The end result is an amazing little pumpkin muffin that will melt in your mouth. Eat them plain or top with a dollop of cream cheese frosting.

Butterscotch Pumpkin Muffins with Cream Cheese Frosting

1 18.25-ounce spice cake mix, dry 2 cups fresh pumpkin puree or 1 – 15 oz can plain pumpkin 1 cup butterscotch chips or chocolate chips Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Empty the cake mix into a large bowl. If it looks lumpy then sift the cake mix. Once sifted, add the pumpkin and mix well. Stir in the butterscotch chips; mix to combine. Spray a mini muffin pan with nonstick baking spray Using a cookie scoop, drop the batter into each muffin cup. Keep in mind the way the batter looks in the pan is how your muffins will shape after baking. I smooth the tops just a bit.

Bake for 10-12 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool in the muffin pan for 5 minutes. Remove to a baking rack to cool completely. When completely cool frost with cream cheese frosting or eat plain.

Cream Cheese Frosting 1/4 cup butter or margarine 4 ounces cream cheese 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1-1/2 cups powdered sugar Using an electric mixer, mix the butter or margarine and cream cheese together, about 3 minutes on medium speed until very smooth. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure even mixing.

Add the vanilla extract and mix. Slowly add the powdered sugar; keep adding until you get the desired sweetness and thickness. If the mixture is too thick you can add a splash of milk. Frost the muffins using a star tip and a cake decoration bag.

Cook’s Notes: Use the cake mix dry; do not add required ingredients on the back of the box. For a low calorie version leave the muffins plain and omit the cream cheese frosting. Chocolate chips can be substituted for butterscotch chips.

Recipe yields: 36-38 Mini Muffins

As fall arrives, there’s nothing more comforting than a big bowl of hot soup. Garden Harvest Chicken Stew is rich in flavor and packed full of vegetables. If you still have vegetables producing in your summer garden, this is the perfect recipe.

Garden Harvest Chicken Stew

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed 6 medium regular or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced thin 1 cup fresh or frozen green beans 1 zucchini squash, cut 1/2 medium onion, chopped 3 cups chicken broth 1 chicken bouillon cube 1 6-ounce can tomato paste 1/4 cup cold water 3 tablespoons cornstarch 2 tablespoons olive oil salt and pepper, to taste Cut the chicken into bite size pieces. In a large skillet add 2 tablespoons olive oil.

Add the chicken and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Sauté the chicken until lightly browned. Remove from pan and set aside when cooked.

In a large slow cooker, combine the rest of the ingredients except for the zucchini, cold water, and cornstarch. Mix well and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours (or high for 4 hours).

The last two hours of cooking add the zucchini. When all the vegetables are soft, in a separate bowl mix together the 1/4 cup cold water and 3 tablespoons cornstarch, stirring until smooth.

Gently stir into the stew and cook for an additional 20 minutes or until the sauce thickens. Serve with hot rolls or a wedge of cornbread.

For more delicious recipes, visit Tina at mommyskitchen.net.

TexasLiVE | Volume 6 Issue 4 77

Events

GUIDE 2012

NOVEMBER November 1-4 Christmas Carousel – Abilene Enjoys a weekend filled with shopping and entertainment that children and adults of all ages will enjoy. Approximately 100 merchants from all parts of Texas and other surrounding states participate in selling everything from gifts, food, clothing, jewelry, and children’s items to photography services and more.

Visit www.jrleagueabilene.com.

November 2-4 15th Annual Theatre Forum – Round Top Presenting In the Land of the Midnight Sun

by Ibsen and Strindberg: The Origins of the Modern Theatre. Held at Round Top Festival Institute. For times and prices, visit www.festivalhill.org.

November 3 Storyfest – George West Family festival featuring professional storytelling, cowboy poetry, music, arts & crafts, children’s game area, petting zoo, living history, classic car show, food booths, and much more. Free admission. Held at the Live Oak County Courthouse Square.

Visit www.georgeweststoryfest.org.

Fall Food & Flowers – Washington Come join us at Barrington Farm to learn how we grow heirloom vegetables and flowers as they did in the mid-19th century. Learn about companion planting as a natural pesticide, organic farming, and seed saving. Also, a discussion on the heirloom varieties grown at Barrington. Make a sweet bag, a botanical journal, and take home a poem full of life lessons. Held at Washington-on-the-Brazos.

Visit www.birthplaceoftexas.com/Events.htm.

Night at the Star of the Republic Museum – Washington The lights will go down and the museum’s exhibits will come to life! Explore the museum by flashlight—but beware of what’s around the corner! This will be a fun way to learn about Texas history as real live characters step out of the exhibits to tell the story of the Texas Republic! Fun for all ages! Visit www.birthplaceoftexas.com/Events.htm.

78 Volume 6 Issue 4 | TexasLiVE | texaslivenetwork.com

November 3-4 29th Annual Tour de Gruene Fall Bicycle Classic – New Braunfels Participants enjoy a leisurely ride through the Texas Hill Country or competitive time trials with prizes for the best course records.

Visit www.tourdegruene.com.

November 9-11 Fall Festival of Roses – Independence The theme of this 25th annual free event will be Empress of the Garden. Held at Antique Rose Emporium.

Visit www.antiqueroseemporium.com/events.

November 10 Ringing in the Season Handbell Concert – Brenham Guest Conductor Bob Avant of the Austin Handbell Ensemble and the Baylor University Handbell Ensemble will lead an estimated 90 plus handbell ringers from the South Central Texas area in a musical presentation ringing in the Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday season.

Held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church Parish Activity Center. Free Admission.

11th Annual Rockin’ Around the Holidays Bazaar – Round Rock Finish your holiday shopping before Thanksgiving! Come ready to shop for arts, crafts, jewelry, and much more. Held at the Clay Madsen Recreation Center. Admission is free.

Visit www.roundrocktexas.gov.

“Ghosts Along the Brazos” – West Columbia A full day’s activities in East & West Columbia!

Arts & crafts, farmer’s market, car & tractor show, riverboat, music, birding tours, museum & historical site tours, hayride, ghost stories & Wildlife Rehab’s presentation with live owls.

Visit www.westcolumbiachamber.com

American Heroes – The Colony Help us honor past and present military service members at this all-day festival featuring a fun run/walk, car/bike/truck show, great food, live music, silent auction, Veterans ceremony, and fireworks! Admission is free.

Visit www.SaluteAmericanHeroes.com.

November 13 2011 Susan G. Komen Austin Race for the Cure – Austin Join breast cancer survivors, families, and friends to participate and make an impact fighting breast cancer.

Visit www.komenaustin.org.

November 16-17 Seaside Treasure Festival – Galveston This 14th annual festival features a wide variety of arts & crafts vendors, a fabulous lunch from the Seaside Cafe, silent auction, and much more.

Free Admission. Visit www.moody.org/stf.

November 17 University of Texas Wind Ensemble – Round Top Conducted by Jerry F. Junkin with Marianne Gedigian on flute. Concert and elegant reception following. Held at the Round Top Festival Institute. Visit www.festivalhill.org for times and ticket prices.

Home for the Holidays – Spring Unique shopping in festive holiday tradition.

Tree lighting, plus Santa House, Christmas train, entertainment, and complimentary horse & carriage rides on weekends.

Held at Preservation Park.

Visit www.oldtownspring.com.

Held through December 24.

November 17-18 Poinsettia Celebration – Brenham Breathtaking poinsettias in different colors and sizes, plant seminars, Poinsettia Christmas tree, beautiful plants, entertainment, and food.

Held at Ellison’s Greenhouses.

Visit www.ellisonsgreenhouses.com.

Holiday Home Tour & Trunk Show – Brenham Catch the Christmas Spirit! Tour festive homes beautifully decorated for the holidays, do all your Christmas shopping, and step into yesteryear at the antique show and sale at the historic Giddings Stone Mansion. Dealers and their wares include unique specialty items for home and hearth, clothing and accessories, and sweets and sugarplums to delight your family and holiday guests.

Visit www.giddingsstonemansion.com.

November 19 Ornament Extravaganza – Dallas A celebration of shape, color, and the holiday season. Featuring glass ornaments from artists nationwide. Visit www.kittrellriff kind.com for further details. Held through December 31.

November 22 4th Annual Turkey Trot-5k Run/Walk & 1/4 Mile Kids’ Turkey Chase – New Braunfels Fun for the whole family! Start your Turkey Day with an exhilarating 5K run/walk through Gruene Historic District while kids under 12 years old will have a blast chasing a Turkey Mascot for a 1/4 mile.

Visit www.comalcopsforkids.org.

November 23-25 32nd Annual Dickens of a Christmas – McKinney An old fashioned holiday family festival with horse-drawn carriages, strolling carolers, visits with Santa Claus, the Christmas tree lighting ceremony and activities for all ages.

Visit www.mckinneytexas.org

Catch our next issue for more exciting events. texaslivenetwork.com

November 23-December 30 The Nutcracker – Houston The Nutcracker is a family tradition you don’t want to miss. Join Clara on her colorful, magical journey. You’ll travel through the Land of the Sweets to Spain, Russia, China and France.

You’ll see a Christmas tree that grows to enormous heights, flying cooks, dancing flowers, and snow. Visit www.houstonballet.org/ TheNutcracker/.

November 24 Christmas in Olde Ballinger – Ballinger Features arts & crafts show, live entertainment, children’s games, food vendors, and a parade.

9am-5pm. Held at the Runnels County Courthouse lawn. Free admission & parking.

Visit www.ballingertx.org, Twilight Firelight at Fanthorp Inn – Anderson Journey back to the 1850s holiday season and enjoy the candlelit inn, period music, poetry, stagecoach rides, and a host of living history characters who will entertain with stories, music, wassail, and good cheer! Activities begin at the Grimes County courthouse where visitors board a replica stagecoach or hay wagon for the ride to the Fanthorp Inn. For details, visit www.birthplaceoftexas.com.

Christmas in Comfort – Comfort Don’t miss your opportunity to enjoy the charm of Christmas in Comfort. The Historic District streets are filled with arts & crafts booths, live music, entertainment, and a visit from Santa and his elves for photos. Comfort’s antique and specialty shops are decorated for the holidays and filled with treasurers for gift giving. The wonderfully festive day is topped off with the Lighted Night Parade that travels through High Street in the Historic District.

Visit www.comfortchamberofcommerce.com.

November 29-December 23 Ford Holiday Boat Caroling – San Antonio Joyous caroling fills the evening air along the San Antonio River Walk as more than 185 school, church, company, and civic choral groups ring in the holidays by singing traditional carols on cruising boats. The eclectic mix of participants includes bell choirs, folk groups, and Latino ensembles. Join visitors from around the world in impromptu sing-a-longs from the patios of River Walk restaurants.

Takes place 6:30p.m.-9:30p.m.

Visit www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com.

November 30 Downtown Christmas Stroll & Lighted Parade– Brenham Enjoy spiced tea or hot cider, entertainment, and holiday shopping as you stroll along the beautifully lighted streets of historic Downtown Brenham. Don’t miss the Gingerbread Tour of Homes and live entertainment, and a special appearance by Santa. Fun for the entire family.

Free admission and free parking.

Visit www.downtownbrenham.com.

December 1-2 Dickens on The Strand – Galveston Celebrate the 39th Annual Dickens on The Strand, a holiday festival, where bobbies, Beefeaters and the Queen herself will be on hand to recreate the Victorian London of Charles Dickens. Visit www.galvestonhistory. org/dickens_overview.asp December 1-14 Trail of Lights – La Grange Trail of Lights held during the first half of December on selected evenings, where visitors can experience a trail, beautifully-decorated with Christmas lights, that overlooks the lighted town of La Grange. It follows along a 200-foot bluff and through the Kreische home, decorated more traditionally with Christmas trees, wreaths, lamps and candles, entertainment, and refreshments. Call 979-968-5658 or visit www.tpwd.state.tx.us/state-parks/ monument-hill-kreische-brewery.

December 1, 7, & 8 Christmas at the Creek – College Station Christmas at the Creek will feature live entertainment, photos with Santa, hayrides, food vendors, holiday shopping and much more. 6-9 p.m. at Wolf Pen Creek.

Visit www.cstx.gov December 1 Christmas In The Stockyards – Fort Worth Join the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District in celebrating Christmas on Exchange Avenue. There will be a tree lighting, a holiday spirit parade, games for kids with Radio Disney, chicken roping, visiting with Cowboy Santa, and much more. If you would like to participate in this event as a sponsor, showcasing your business to more than 10,000 visitors, call 817-625-9715 or visit www.stockyardsstation.com December 6 Christmas On the Square – Garland Christmas on the Square offers many free family activities, including horse drawn carriage rides and snow tubing hills. Children can get their picture taken with Santa and take home a free souvenir photo button. Local choirs provide the entertainment for the evening.

Attendees can enjoy shopping in the Christmas Bazaar booths or take advantage of a variety of festive foods. Starts at 5:30.

Visit www.christmasonthesquare.com December 7-8 St. Nikolausmarkt – Fredericksburg White tents at the festival will house the 40+ booths that feature everything from Christmas ornaments, nutcrackers, children’s toys, pyramids, and jewelry, to traditional German clothing and food.

Visit www.stnikolausmarkt.com Candlelight at the Ranch – Lubbock Candlelight at the Ranch captures the traditional spirit of a pioneer Christmas.

This annual holiday event offers a glimpse

into the past, as visitors experience yuletide celebrations that took place on the open prairie more than 100 years ago. 6-9 p.m. at the National Ranching Heritage Center.

Visit www.depts.ttu.edu/ranchhc/ Candlelight.htm.

December 8 Christmas on Commerce – Tomball Features live holiday music, children’s activities, shopping and a free holiday film screening.

Commerce Street in downtown.

Visit www.ci.tomball.tx.us.

December 8-9 Luminations – Austin We invite you to enjoy gardens lighted with more than 3,000 luminarias and 5,000 twinkle lights and to listen to music of the season.

Admission is free with two canned food items for the Capital Area Food Bank. 6 to 9 p.m.

Visit www.wildflower.org/luminations.

December 10 Christmas at Winedale – Round Top Experience a recreation of Christmas in the 1800s with demonstrations and tours of historic homes, stagecoach and wagon rides, old-fashioned crafts, games, hands-on chores for children and musical entertainment.

Also see demonstrations of blacksmithing, quilt-making, weaving and spinning. Winedale Historical Complex. Noon to 4p.m. Contact 979-278-3530 or visit www.cah.utexas.edu December 13-January 5 Festival of Lights – Galveston Enjoy more than 1 million lights within 100 sound-enhanced animated light displays and nightly live entertainment. In addition, you can skate around on the area’s only outdoor ice skating rink, take pictures with Santa or watch holiday films in the MG 3D, 4D Special FX or Ridefilm theaters.

Visit www.moodygardens.com December 27-31 2012 Rail of Lights New Year’s Train – Jefferson Blast into the New Year aboard the Rail of Lights New Year’s Train. Passengers will enjoy lighted vignettes along the Cypress Bayou River as they hear the tale of New Year’s traditions, customs and superstitions from Around the Globe. Each of the trains will feature beverages, noisemakers and a simulation of the New Year’s Eve Ball dropping in Times Square followed by a fantastic fireworks show.

Visit www.railoflights.com.

TexasLiVE | Volume 6 Issue 4 79

Scene in

TEXAS TX-458 Spur West, Carmine The area between Carmine and Round Top is known for antiques, but its agricultural backbone is what makes this drive scenic and a bit nostalgic.

PHOTO BY NATALIE LACY LANGE

ng

l l To submit your “Scene in Texas” picture or story, please email us at texaslivemag@gmail.com

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