Lifestyle of Comanche Trace and the Texas Hill Country

lifest yle O f

C o m a n c h e

T r ac e

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T e x a s

H i l l

C o u n t r y

VOLUME 1 ISSUE 5 DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011

LIVE HAPPY

The Swanns Steal Away On Many Exotic Adventures C O MAN C HE

E x p e r i e n c e

T RA C E

C o m a n c h e

T r a c e

2 LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011

The custom home division of Arthur Schmidt Construction is actively building in Kerrville and surrounding areas. Building a custom home isn’t just about a set of house plans and some lumber. It’s about choosing a builder that can see what the home owner wants and providing them with the direction and skills needed to make their dream home reality.

830-257-6300 | arthurschmidtcustomhomes.net LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011 3

WELCOME

Contents Table OF CONTENTS 4

CALENDAR OF EVENTS 8

GROUPS 10 LADIES ‘ MAHJONGG

FITNESS 14

GOLF 16 STAFF PROFILE 18 ELENA SHARP

DINING 20 FAVORITE HOLIDAY RECIPES

DAYTRIPS 24 HOLIDAY ATTRACTIONS

SHOPPING 28

COVER STORY 30 THE SWANN’S

MEMBERSHIP 38 REAL ESTATE 42 THE BIG FOUR

BOOKS 44 HOME TOUR 48 HILL COUNTRY CONTEMPORARY

FEATURE HOUSE 56 REAL ESTATE LISTINGS 59 PET PROFILE 64

4 LIFESTYLE 2010/2011 X LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY JUNE/JULY 2010

Dear Lifestyle Reader Dear Lifestyle reader,

The Comanche Trace community is buzzing with activity…Christmas parties, our annual Golf Shop Sale, the Christmas Golf Cart parade and more. There is never a need to search for something to do. In fact, you may need to schedule time at home to unwind!

Our annual Resident Party was a tremendous success, and the location at the Sales Center has received great reviews. The meal provided by Chef David Lopez and staff, along with music by DJ, Jacob St. Pierre, culminated in a hayride at sunset. Some of our newest members and residents took advantage of the opportunity to meet many of our long-time residents. The planning committee was comprised of both new and existing residents, and they had such fun preparing for it. Thank you for your support of this annual tradition!

Other activities involve different types of planned projects. We are happy to announce an expansion of the Community Garden to add 9 to 12 plots for our gardeners next spring. The bunkers in the Hills and Valleys golf courses will be remodeled to shine like those in the Creeks.

New trees will be planted throughout the golf course and common areas, so that when the BIG 2011 golf events come around in May (Valero Texas Open Qualifier and Texas Four Ball Championship), our course will continue to be the crowning jewel of Comanche Trace. The Pinnacle Grill bar has had some recent upgrades. Resurfacing the tennis courts is complete, and the fencing will be repaired. In 2011, Comanche Trace will invest approximately $400,000 throughout our community, as we continue to show the highest level of commitment to this club.

As Comanche Trace continues to grow, membership also builds on that growing foundation! At least 6 new members are expected within the next 60 days, with another 15 or more potential members anticipated in 2011. These folks are coming to build their new homes and invest their lives in Comanche Trace, and I hear about their expectations of loving the lifestyle we all enjoy. We feel truly blessed to be one of the few masterplanned communities in the country that continues to grow during this difficult economy.

Finally, as we begin 2011 with great expectations, I want to remind you of our 10-year anniversary. We are making plans to celebrate with many offers throughout the year.

Take time to enjoy our traditions this holiday season, or perhaps establish new traditions with friends. After all, it’s the most wonderful time of the year…

All the best,

Trevor Hyde, PRESIDENT

lifestyle o f C O MAN C HE T RA C E AND

the Texas Hill Country

PUBLISHERS: Schooley Media Ventures, LLC/Comanche Trace Schooley Media Ventures, LLC Benjamin D. Schooley – CEO/President ben@smvtexas.com Tamara Hooks - Creative Director: tamara@smvtexas.com Alison Turner - Associate Publisher alison@smvtexas.com Comanche Trace 2801 Comanche Trace Drive Kerrville, Texas 78028 CONTACT: Comanche Trace Lifestyle Magazine 2733 Indian Wells Kerrville,Texas 78208 210-507-5250 info@smvtexas.com

LIFESTYLE is published bi-monthly through a joint venture between Comanche Trace and Schooley Media Ventures, LLC. No reproduction in any form is authorized without the consent of both Comanche Trace and Schooley Media Ventures, LLC. 203 Shadywood, Boerne, TX 78006. Printed in the USA. All rights reserved 2010. All rights reserved.

No responsibility is assumed for unsolicited submissions.

Manuscripts, photographs, and other submitted material can be acknowledged or returned if accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope.

The content contained does not necessarily reflect the opinions and views of Comanche Trace, Schooley Media Ventures, LLC, or Comanche Trace residents. Comanche Trace and Schooley Media Ventures, LLC assumes no liability for misinformation, omissions, or errors.

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LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011 7

CALENDAR

DECEMBER PINNACLE CLUB DINING SPECIALS FRIDAYS QUICK LUNCH BUFFET 11:00am – 2:00pm in the Trophy Room Full Buffet - $9.95 Soup & Salad only - $6.95 SATURDAYS PRIME RIB NIGHT Pinnacle Grill and Trophy Room SUNDAYS BRUNCH 9:00am – 2:00pm Pinnacle Grill and Trophy Room FITNESS CLASSES MONDAY 8am WEIGHT CLASS with Donna Bowyer in the Ladies’ Lounge 9:30am PILATES CLASS with Jane Garbish in the Men’s Lounge 9:15am ZUMBA DANCE CLASS with Donna Bowyer in the Ladies’ Lounge TUESDAY 6pm ZUMBA DANCE CLASS with Donna Bowyer in the Ladies’ Lounge WEDNESDAY 8am MEDICINE BALL CLASS with Donna Bowyer in the Ladies’ Lounge 9:15am ZUMBA DANCE CLASS with Donna Bowyer in the Ladies’ Lounge FRIDAY 9am ZUMBA DANCE CLASS with Donna Bowyer in the Ladies’ Lounge 8 LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011

December 1 ANNUAL HOMEOWNERS’ MEETING 5pm in the Ladies’ lounge

2ND ANNUAL CHRISTMAS CART PARADE Line-up at 5pm.

THE ANNUAL CHRISTMAS GOLF SHOP SALE 5:30pm to 8:00pm in the golf shop.

Bring a children’s toy gift to place under the tree, which will be donated to the Medina Children’s Home. The sale will have big discounts on clubs and merchandise along with complimentary wrapping of gifts.

December 14 BRIDGE CLUB 1:00pm in the Men’s Lounge.

Players of all levels are welcome.

Table arrangements will be based on RSVP Response. Players please bring $1.00 to each play date of the month and to guarantee your spot as a player, please RSVP with monthly host(s).

TRIM THE TREE 6pm

December 15 MEN’S GOLF ASSOCIATION EVENT Starting at 10:00am

December 4 MEN’S GOLF ASSOCIATION DINNER Individual stroke play, Final Ringer Round Annual Banquet beginning at 10:00am December 8 MEN’S GOLF ASSOCIATION EVENT Time to be announced.

Candlelit Dinner in the Vista Room.

RSVP to 830-895-8505 MAHJONGG 1:00pm in the Ladies’ Lounge.

Join fellow players for some lively rounds of Mahjongg. Please RSVP with monthly host Elaine Smith.

December 9 LADIES’ GOLF ASSOCIATION EVENT Starting at 10:00am

December 16 LADIES’ GOLF ASSOCIATION EVENT Starting at 10:00am December 21 BOOK CLUB 4:30pm in the Men’s Lounge.

December’s meeting will be held for nominations. For more information, call: Paula Perich at 830-257-2846.

December 24 CHRISTMAS EVE The Club and Course will be open until 12:00pm on Christmas Eve. December 25 CHRISTMAS DAY The Club and Course will be closed on Christmas Day.

JANUARY December 28 BRIDGE CLUB 1:00pm in the Men’s Lounge.

Players of all levels are welcome.

Table arrangements will be based on RSVP Response. Players please bring $1.00 to each play date of the month and to guarantee your spot as a player, please RSVP with monthly host(s).

December 31 NEW YEAR’S EVE Club and Course will be open on New Year’s Eve. NEW YEAR’S EVE DINNER AND DANCE Open to the Public Call 830-895-8505 for reservations.

January 5 MEN’S GOLF ASSOCIATION EVENT Starting at 10:00am January 6 LADIES’ GOLF ASSOCIATION EVENT Starting at 10:00am January 11 BRIDGE CLUB 1:00pm in the Men’s Lounge, Players of all levels are welcome.

Table arrangements will be based on RSVP Response. Players please bring $1.00 to each play date of the month and to guarantee your spot as a player, please RSVP with monthly host(s).

January 12 MAHJONGG 1:00pm in the Ladies Lounge.

Join fellow players for some lively rounds

of Mahjongg. Please RSVP with monthly host Elaine Smith.

January 18 BOOK CLUB 4:30pm Location to be announced.

In January, the club will meet to discuss Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson and D. Relin. Discussion will be facilitated by Virginia Christian.

For more information, please call Paula Perich at 830-257-2846.

January 20 LADIES’ GOLF ASSOCIATION EVENT Starting at 10:00am January 22 MEN’S GOLF ASSOCIATION EVENT Starting at 10:00am January 25 BRIDGE CLUB Men’s Lounge, 1:00pm Players of all levels are welcome.

Table arrangements will be based on RSVP Response. Players please bring $1.00 to each play date of the month and to guarantee your spot as a player, please RSVP with monthly host(s).

January 26 MEN’S GOLF ASSOCIATION EVENT Starting at 10:00am January 27 LADIES’ GOLF ASSOCIATION EVENT Starting at 10:00am

LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011 9

GROUPS

The Ladies’ Mahjongg group has quickly grown to include over 50 members

THE LADIES’ MAHJONGG GROUP

By Alison Turner

Women at Comanche Trace are flocking to the Ladies’ Mahjongg Group.

Mahjongg is an ancient Chinese game of skill, strategy and a little bit of luck. A little like a combination of gin rummy and dominoes, this 4,000 year-old game is downright addicting. Typically there are four players, who accumulate tiles with the object of creating a winning hand.

Mahjongg has experienced some ups and downs in popularity over the past century. The game was popular in the 1920s, then again in the 1950s and early ‘60s, when women hosted mahjongg 10 LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011

evenings, decorating their homes with lanterns and dressing up in Chinesestyle clothing. Since then, popularity had receded but recently the game has caught on with a whole new generation of women.

The Ladies’ Mahjongg Group at Comanche Trace was started by Elaine Smith. “When I moved to Comanche Trace in May of 2006, I was newly retired,” Elaine said. “I couldn’t imagine a retirement without being able to play mahjongg.” Elaine had played with a group of women in San Angelo since the early ‘80s but when she came to Comanche virtually no one knew the game. In September of the same year,

Elaine set out to teach mahjongg to her friends at Comanche Trace and from there the game caught on. Starting from just a few players in 2006, the group now has more than 50 members with more waiting to learn. One member even drives from Fredericksburg to play!

The club meets on the second Wednesday of each month in the Ladies’ Locker Room from 1-4pm with a social hour from 4-5pm. The club is quite organized with schedules set for the entire year and rosters written out. Though Mahjongg does have a strong history as a betting game, the Mahjongg club does not wager money or play for prizes. All members of the

Mahjongg Club are members of the National Mahjongg League which has approximately 400,000 members nationally.

“Each week many of the members get together in their own homes to play. We have some addicts! I think our Club has provided a great way for women who move into Comanche Trace to get to know each other and have a fun day to look forward to.”

Anyone interested in joining the Ladies’ Mahjongg Group contact Elaine Smith at 792-6108 or email oilpill2@stx.rr.com

You are invited

to participate in the life of Schreiner University.

Whether your interest is in arts and culture, thought-provoking lectures, transformative science, book reviews, world events or concerts, the Schreiner community welcomes you to join us.

Here are a few of our December and January events. See a complete calendar on our website: www.schreiner.edu.

December 2 at 7 p.m.

The Non-Fiction Book Club presents “Rats, Lice and History”

by Hans Zinsser, discussion moderated

by Audrey Mitchell William Logan Library, Scarle-Phillips Room

December 2 at 7:30 p.m.

Symphony of the Hills Concert 2010 Rising Stars Featuring soloists: Collin Turner, violin; Evana Toll, string bass; and a new composition by young composer Jonathan Willing Kathleen C. Cailloux Theater in Kerrville

All events are open to the public and most are free.

December 5 at 6 p.m.

The Schreiner choirs will feature a variety of holiday music ranging from classical to contemporary and jazz First Presbyterian Church in Kerrville

December 9 at 7:30 p.m.

Student Music Recital Schreiner students will perform selected works by various composers in a range of musical genres Dietert Auditorium

January 31 at 7 p.m.

Robert P. Hallman Chautauqua Lecture Series “Freedom and Moral Responsibility.”

Presenter: Dr. Adam Feltz, professor of Philosophy, Schreiner University Floyd & Kathleen Cailloux Campus Activity Center Ballrooms

January 27 at 7 p.m.

Texas Water Symposium “Tradeoffs in Sustainability in the 21st Century: Energy at the Currency of Water at the Expense of Power” Moderator: Robert Potts, Dixon Water Foundation Panelists: Les Shephard, CARE; Amy Hardberger, EDF and John Brocksch, Aquifer Group The Witte Museum, San Antonio, TX

2100 Memorial Boulevard Kerrville, Texas 78028 www.schreiner.edu 830.792.7405

LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011 11

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FITNESS FITNESS

Holiday Health

MOTIVATE YOURSELF TO EAT WELL AND EXCERCISE DURING THE HOLIDAYS

By Jane Garbish

Jan Garbish holds Certifications as a Personal Trainer, Fitness Specialist for Older Adults, and Biomechanics of Strength Training Professional from the Cooper Institute in Dallas, Texas.

14 LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010 2010/2011

Happy holidays!

We made it through Thanksgiving, and now the Christmas season is upon us. A wonderful time of year or is it?

Well sure it is! What’s not to like about frequent celebrations with friends and family, GOOD FOOD, Christmas cards from far-away friends, holiday traditions, and special decorations? It’s a time to escape our regular routines and enjoy the magic of the season. That’s a good thing, right?

Well, breaking routine can be good for the mind, but not always so good for the waistline. There are a few negatives in the above list of holiday fun.

Lots of parties usually mean lots of fattening food, drink and temptation.

The extra chores associated with the holidays – shopping, decorating, greeting cards, hosting a party – can lead to extra STRESS, and many people handle stress by mindless eating!

Where does exercise fit in to this busy month?

Changing your routine may mean exercise takes a back seat, or is entirely thrown off the bus!

There is no reason that a healthy lifestyle cannot be continued even in December, but the motivation to keep it going may be just a little more difficult to find. Change is not an EVENT, it’s a PROCESS. And that process needs to continue through all times of year, through all kinds of circumstances. When healthy habits become the norm in your life, then you have become truly successful.

There are really three keys to a healthy lifestyle – and the motivation to attain it: 1. Knowledge 2. Dedication 3. Determination There are no quick fixes. Just as fad diets are rarely effective in the long-term, lifestyle changes are not instantaneous. Changing your ways of eating, exercising and living is a process requiring discipline and commitment, and it’s not going to happen quickly.

KNOWLEDGE: Before you can change anything, you need to understand what it is in your lifestyle that needs changing, and then how to do it. Often your eating is based on years and years of unhealthy habits because you literally have never taken the time or interest to find out what a healthy way of eating truly is. You don’t need to become a nutritionist, but you do need to do a little research to find out which foods should be prevalent in your menus. Check out these two websites for a start: http://www.mypyramid.gov/ and http://www.oldwayspt.org/mediterraneandiet.

Exercise knowledge is also essential if you are going to use your time safely and effectively. Discuss your situation with a qualified fitness professional in order to get a program that is designed to fit your individual needs and desires.

DEDICATION: It seems like at one time or another in our lives we all have an “epiphany” about the need

to engage in a healthy lifestyle. You may look at friends and family suffering with health issues and decide that – ‘Wow! – I’m not going to end up like they are. I’m going to start eating right, exercising, etc. etc. right now!’ And you probably did – for awhile. But you soon start feeling deprived (your favorite foods are now off-limits) or sore (gosh – those pushups are harder than they look!), and your dedication begins to waiver a bit. Pretty soon you’re back to your old slovenly habits. That dedication needs to be based on a true understanding of what a healthier lifestyle is going to do for you, and the inner desire to achieve it.

DETERMINATION: To be determined means to pick yourself up after you fail – over and over. Very few of you will be able to maintain perfection in your eating or exercising all the time. You will have days when you feel so good about what you were able to accomplish, and then days when you slide backwards. That’s normal, and it’s okay. The determined person, though, will brush those days aside and proceed on the right path with even more vigor. Give yourself permission to fail, but focus on your successes. And although encouragement from others is helpful, that determination to accomplish a goal must come from within. It starts with you.

So where do you find that inner motivation? You need to get past those mental roadblocks to begin your path to a healthy lifestyle. Here are a few tips: ● Acknowledge your lifestyle.

Are you becoming more and more sedentary?

How many hours a day do you spend in front of the TV, computer, or with a book, rather than engaging in physical activity? You’re probably not going to lessen your dependence on modern technology, but accept the fact that you have to make physical exercise a priority – it needs to happen every day.

Make exercise and healthy eating mean something to you.

It’s important to set both long term goals and short term objectives. Do you want to lose 20 pounds before March? Are you training for a special event? Do you want to rid yourself of some of the prescription drugs you’re now taking? Do you want to see your grandchildren grow up? What we do needs to have a purpose if it’s going to work. ●Find your own path to fitness.

There is not one form of exercise that’s going to work for everyone. Some of you may love the gym, whereas some of you may have to be outdoors to stay motivated.

Do you need the encouragement of a group, or do you enjoy the solitude? Lots of choices, so choose what will keep you coming back.

Ultimately, we all need to make a healthy lifestyle into a positive addiction. Making healthy eating choices and getting yourself off the couch – everyday – will start 2011 on the right path.

MERRY CHRISTMAS, AND BEST WISHES FOR A HAPPY AND HEALTHY NEW YEAR! LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011 15

GOLF The 2010 Futurity The WTGA Senior Stroke Play Championship

By Tony Johnson

hat a great couple of months for the Comanche Trace LGA golfers. They have again promoted the game of golf through their involvement with the WTGA Senior Stroke Play Championship. Three ladies from Comanche Trace competed in this event, and our very own Cheryl Wood finished 1st place in her flight. Toni Manchester and Marian Ezell finished 2nd and 3rd, respectively. The ladies kept their game in competitive shape to follow-up and play in the 2010 Ladies Club Championship. This year’s winner, with a final-day back nine total of 39 (+3) was Mrs. Barbara Lipe, who made up a six-shot differential after day one results. CONGRATULATIONS Barbara for your outstanding play and participation. Finishing 2nd through 7th were: Michelle Tomlinson, Toni Manchester, Anne Hearn,Janet Malson, Linda Southwick and Trish Butler. Winning the first flight by a two-stroke margin was Saundra Gensler. Again, congratulations to all those ladies who played and participated.

The 2010 Futurity was a great success. This all-inclusive Hill Country event featured competitive golf, perfect weather, fine dining and live music. This year’s winners, Ed Barlow and Mac Gendreaux, won by one point during the quota system beat out Mike Lewis and Bob Byrne whose team came in second place. We at Comanche Trace acknowledge your continued support of the Futurity and thank all those who chose to participate and enjoy our beautiful golf course and facility. See you next year.

16 LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010 2010/2011

Halloween Golf

Tony Johnson PGA, Head Golf Professional Comanche Trace.

HALLOWEEN GOLF This past Halloween, the Comanche Trace Members enjoyed an evening of laugh-outloud rounds of golf in fun and creative costumes. They truly had a blast playing golf under the stars with the help of some glow-in-the-dark balls. When all was said and done, the winners were the Manchesters & Clymans.

Not far behind, though, were the Ezells & Hipples. As for best costume, it was too close to call with such creative costumes as “Dracula” and “Divots.” But in the end, someone had to win. In a split decision, the Selfs, Wades, Garbishes and Swanns took home the prize. Thank you for all the smiles and we hope to see you next year for another spectacular time under the stars.

THE 2010 FUTURITY The 2010 Futurity was a great success.

Pictured right: Chef David once again prepared a spectacular meal.

Far right: Winners, Ed Barlow and Mac Gendreaux.

STAFF PROFILE

ELENA SHARP MARKETING AND ADVERTISING COORDINATOR

HOMETOWN: Denver, Colorado FAMILY: My parents live in Kerrville; my sister and her family live in Denver.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WITH COMANCHE TRACE? I have been here since the end of June.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ASPECT OF WORKING IN THE HILL COUNTRY? The weather is much nicer here than surrounding areas and the beauty and wildlife can be soul-quenching.

HOBBIES: Traveling, Container Gardening, Downhill Skiing, Snowmobiling, Snorkeling, Hiking in Colorado (or in cooler weather). I also love horses, dogs, cats, . . . animals in general.

FAVORITE MOVIE? WHY? I can’t give a favorite movie because I like so many, but my favorite director is Alfred Hitchcock. He was brilliant and ahead of his time.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR GREATEST CHALLENGE IN YOUR BUSINESS? Not enough hours in the day.

18 LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST REWARDING EXPERIENCE IN YOUR BUSINESS? Continuing to learn, and most days I do, whether I truly want to or not.

FAVORITE ASPECT OR FEATURE AT COMANCHE TRACE? The people, hands down. I love the people I work with and the

community I work in. The people are friendly and interesting and it makes coming to work worthwhile.

I am also grateful every day for my surroundings. The views I get to see everyday are something I really don’t take for granted.

IF YOU COULD DO ANYTHING WHAT WOULD IT BE. I would love to run an animal rescue for horses/pack animals/ dogs/cats. And utilize the healthy animals for a Therapeutic Assistance Center to provide people with special needs therapeutic activities through animals to improve the quality of their lives.

FLOOR BUFFING/POLISHING-through February CALL US for your HOLIDAY CLEANING needs.

LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011 19

DINING DINING

David Lopez Executive Chef, Comanche Trace

The holidays bring back many memories of family meals and gettogethers with assorted holiday desserts. Whether it was Thanksgiving, Christmas or New Year’s Eve there was always something in the oven at our house. One of my favorite memories was Thanksgiving, and waking up in a warm house with the smell of fresh cornbread and turkey in the oven.

In my family, as we grew older, we decided that when we get together for the holidays we should share the cooking responsibilities so my mom doesn’t have to do all the cooking.

Of course, being a chef and the middle sibling of three boys, I ended up cooking most of the meals. My family all live in different towns, so we spend three or four days together. We each decided which meal to prepare: breakfast, lunch or dinner. But the traditional holiday meal was always prepared by my mother with my dad as her assistant. We had one rule: whoever did the cooking didn’t have to clean up. The holidays were an extra-special time for all of us, because it’s was the only time of year we were all together. These are some of my favorite holiday recipes that I enjoyed cooking for my family.

20 LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011

BASIC ROASTED TURKEY 1(16-18lb) whole turkey ½ cup unsalted butter, softened Salt & pepper to taste 11/2 quarts chicken stock Home made cornbread dressing Preheat the oven to 325 degrees.

Remove the neck and giblets.

Rinse the turkey, and pat dry.

Place turkey breast side up in a roasting pan.

Loosely fill the turkey with stuffing.

Rub the skin with softened butter and salt and pepper.

Cover with an aluminum tent.

Put turkey in oven and pour stock into the bottom of the roasting pan.

Baste every 30 minutes with juice from the bottom of the pan, add stock as needed.

Remove turkey after 21/2 hours; or when the meat thermometer reads 180 degrees.

Let turkey stand for 30 minutes before carving.

HOMEMADE CORNBREAD DRESSING 2 packages of (16oz) corn bread mix 1 teaspoon salt 2 cups diced onions 1 teaspoon blk pepper 2 cups diced celery 11/2 quarts of chicken stock 1 cup softened butter

4 hard-boiled eggs 4 ounces of pork sausage Sage or poultry seasoning optional

Bring mixture to a boil than add a cornstarch slurry - mixture will thicken slightly.

Remove from heat, let cool and serve.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees Prepare and cook cornbread according to package directions.

Allow the cornbread to cool - then crumble into bite sized pieces.

Sauté onions and celery in butter until tender.

Add chicken stock to pan and heat gently.

In a casserole dish, combine the crumbled cornbread, salt, pepper, chopped eggs, sausage and sage or poultry seasoning.

Pour broth and vegetables over bread mixture and stir well.

Bake in a preheated oven for 30-45 minutes.

BUNUELOS 5 eggs 1¼ teaspoons salt ¼ teaspoon vegetable oil 1¼ cups white sugar 2½ cups all-purpose flour 1¼ teaspoons ground cinnamon ¼ cup and 1 tablespoon of white sugar 1¼ cups vegetable oil for frying

CRANBERRY RELISH 1 lb fresh cranberries 1 cup sugar 3 oranges (zested & juiced) 2 cinnamon sticks ½ cup water Corn starch Combine first 5 ingredients into a medium sauce pot.

Zest and juice the oranges.

Add the orange zest and juice to the pot.

In a large bowl, combine eggs with ¼ cup sugar and beat until thick.

Add vegetable oil.

Combine 1½ cups of flour with the baking powder and salt.

Gradually add this dry mixture to to the egg mixture and beat well to form a dough.

Pour dough onto a floured countertop (use remaining ½ cup flour) and knead thoroughly until smooth.

Shape dough into balls about 5 inches in diameter.

Let stand uncovered on wax paper for about 10 minutes.

Heat oil in a deep fryer to 350 degrees.

Fry circles of dough until golden brown, turning once.

Drain on paper towels. Sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon mix.

LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011 21

2010/2011 22 LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY JUNE/JULY 2010

CUSTOM PICTURE FRAMING

LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011 23

DAYTRIPS

HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES

By Kelsey King

e really are blessed to live in such a magical place this time of year. Granted, we don’t typically see the glistening shine of fresh fallen snow on a chilly Christmas Eve, but we do enjoy some of the best holiday activities. The Hill Country hosts holiday parades, gingerbread-house decorating contests, horse drawn carriage rides, Christmas lights, and more‌ you just have to know where to look! Take a peak at some of the many choices our area provides this charming time of year.

24 LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011

EISBAHN, FREDERICKSBURG “Kommen Sie zur Eisbahn!” Or as we say in English, “Come to the ice rink!” The Hill Country’s favorite holiday hangout, the famous Eisbahn ice rink, kicks off holiday season fun the day after Thanksgiving. Made with 100% real ice, the Eisbahn offers an inviting winter atmosphere, perfect for making fun-filled winter memories deep in the heart of Texas.Visitors can glide, spin, and twirl the day away. This outdoor ice attraction is always kept in ideal skating condition, regardless of the temperature outside. So come one, come all, to the best-known Hill Country holiday tradition! Admission is only $10, and includes skate rentals.

The Eisbahn is located at 100 W. Main at Marktplatz in downtown Fredericksburg.

For more details, visit skateinfred.com.

HILL COUNTRY CHRISTMAS LIGHT DISPLAY, JOHNSON CITY Take a relaxing country drive as you marvel at over 300,000 twinkling lights at the Hill Country Christmas Light Display, one mile north of Johnson City. Starting November 20th, this free evening attraction is the perfect way to enjoy one of the holiday season’s most popular annual traditions. Stay cozy and sip on hot chocolate in the comfort of your vehicle as you listen to Christmas carols on local radio station 101.7FM. Don’t miss their live adaptation of the Nativity story, “One Silent Night Live Nativity,” December 10th and 11th from 6:30-9:30pm; admission is free! This magical display has been an annual Hill Country tradition for the past eight years, and continues to impress spectators every year. Don’t miss out on the fun! For more information, visit hillcountrychristmaslights.com.

DICKENS ON MAIN, BOERNE The glitter of red and green Christmas lights, singing carolers, and holiday wreaths decorate downtown Boerne this year at the 11th Annual Dickens on Main Christmas celebration. Situated in the heart of downtown Boerne, this charming tradition brings the fascination of an olden-time Christmas to life, as Boerne is made-over to resemble Christmas in the 19th Century. Lampposts are decorated with wreaths and banners, and shop owners dress in Victorian-era attire.

Activities include a gingerbread-house decorating contest, The Stocking Stroll, a Masquerade Ball, a snow show, and of course, food and drink booths for your sweet tooth. Come enjoy the crisp winter air and stay to enjoy the parade. Dickens on Main takes place the weekends of November 26th-28th and Dec 3rd-5th.

Visit dickensonmain.com for pictures and additional information.

CAMPFIRE CHRISTMAS, BANDERA Fresh mulled cider and creamy hot chocolate await at a Texas-style Christmas celebration in Bandera. Situated on the banks of the beautiful Medina River, this unique Hill Country event is a rustic way to celebrate the holiday season. Gather your family and friends and sit around a warm campfire and western chuckwagon.

Indulge yourself with fresh-baked cookies and coffee, and listen to Christmas stories. Admire thousands of red, green, and gold Christmas lights that adorn the park, and listen to Christmas melodies as you eat and converse with friends. Don’t miss the live rendition of the Christmas Story, as well as the lighting of the City Park Christmas Tree. The event starts at 4:30pm, bring your lawn chair! Visit bccourier.com to find out more.

CHRISTMAS IN COMFORT, COMFORT TEXAS Spend the day with your family browsing through over 150 arts and crafts booths offering unique Christmas treasures. The town is decorated with Christmas wreaths and lights, and daylong music can be heard as you stroll the streets. You’ll be tempted by the variety of sweet treats and delectable foods, all while checking off your holiday gift list!

Bring your grandkids—they’ll get to visit Santa for photos and Christmas wishes, and enjoy the petting zoo. Don’t miss the festival’s annual Christmas night parade starting at 7pm. Tourists and locals alike have enjoyed this charming Christmas festival for over 20 years. Christmas in

Comfort takes place November 27th from 10am-9pm; admission is free. Visit comfort-texas.com/events for more information.

LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011 25

Stavinoha

Enterprises Fine Homes

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26 LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011

WestVita p h o t o g r a p h y

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weddings graduates families children

LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011 27

SHOPPING

Gift Guide

Decorative Money Clip - ClintOrms www.clintorms.com

HILL COUNTRY The Hill Country offers some amazing boutique shopping locations overflowing with unique finds. No matter what the occasion, you can find something eyecatching. Here are a few notables we found on a recent shopping excursion.

28 LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011

Assorted Pottery and planters -Rustic Elegance www.rusticelegancetx.com

Silver Ring and flower -James Avery www.jamesavery.com

Decorative Candles -rustic elegance www.rusticelegancetx.com Blown Glass Sculptures -Talk of the Town (830) 990-8855

LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011 29

FEATURE

CRUISING...

The Swanns Steal Away on many Exotic Adventures but return home to “LIVE HAPPY” at Comanche Trace

By Ben Schooley Photos by West Vita

30 LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011

The Swanns have created a life full of adventure, travel, golf, and cars.

And they’re just getting started.

LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011 31

J

ohn and Maria Swann were the 18th residents of Comanche Trace. Seeking a refuge from the Houston suburbs after a career in oil and gas, the Swanns had several criteria that had to be met for their retirement location. Having traveled the world extensively, they knew exactly what they liked and what they didn’t.

After a brief search, Comanche Trace was chosen, and the Swanns have never looked back. In fact, they have created a life full of adventure, travel, golf, and cars. And they’re just getting started.

Born in a tiny town just north of London, John knew immediately that he wanted to see the world. “My dad was in the shoe business. The town I grew up in was famous for boots and shoes, and sadly, today, there isn’t a shoe factory there. We certainly weren’t wealthy, but we lived in a small village and I couldn’t get out of there fast enough when I got out of high school. It was a nice place, but I wanted to see a bigger world.”

And his ticket out of his small town: rocks. “I was into rocks early on. Some of the oldest rocks in the world were in my area and it wasn’t unusual to find fossils and mammoth teeth and all sorts of stuff as kids. I had a geography teacher who was really passionate about geology, and she stirred my interest in earth sciences. So another kid and I asked if we could start a geology class at school. We had a class of two and the biology teacher taught us.” And that same study of rocks and geology followed Swann into college. “I went to college in South Wales where I majored in geology and oceanography.

I had no idea where I was going with that, other than I enjoyed them. In fact, at one point, two of us thought about heading to the Southwest of England and opening a rock shop and that would be our career. Luckily, that didn’t pan out,” Swann laughed.

32 LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011

After graduation, Swann was ready to enter the workforce where his dreams of travel began to take flight. “When I left college, I took a job in the oil business not knowing what that was going to be about.

I was offered a job in South Africa working in the gold fields. They had to get final approval from Cape Town so I had a few days to consider. Then I was offered a job in Singapore and they gave me two days to decide.

I delayed as long as I could and I eventually took the Singapore job. The deciding factor was I was working in a factory and I asked these guys who worked with me what I should do. And this old fella says ‘Singapore is a great place.’ And I asked him ‘You’ve been?’ He politely said, ‘Yes, I was in their POW camps for three years.’ I figured that if he could say something positive about the place after being a POW, then it must really be great.”

Upon arriving in Singapore, Swann hit the ground running. “The job in Singapore was doing geology all over Southeast Asia. And I will tell you that I exceeded my life goals right there, because it was just so much fun.

I was a consultant in the oil business and I would go out to work the oil rigs. Sometimes it would take three days to reach our destination and many places I was the first white guy they had seen since the Dutch had been there before WWII. I was mainly analyzing the rocks that the rigs would bring up looking for traces of oil and gas.”

And during his 4 years in Singapore, Swann met his wife, Maria. “Maria was between exams and she was working in a restaurant that I frequented.” After their marriage, it was time for them to move away, a decision that was both hard and easy on Maria. “It was tough leaving my family but I always wanted to travel. When I was in school I had 23 pen-pals and I always knew I wanted to see the world. In 1974 we moved away.”

And the two continued on to more exotic locations.

With development in the North Sea in full swing, the young Swanns were sent to Scotland, and eventually to London. “The North Sea was starting to be developed, so they moved us to Dundee, Scotland for Conoco. We had a small workbase there. It was cold and windy to say the least. We had our daughter Kristina there. Eventually we moved down to London to work at the Headquarters.

The job was great but the commute was terrible. It was just awful. But I was fortunate enough to be given a job as an aide to a VP at Conoco. He was a great guy and it wasn’t long after that that we were headed to Norway via a promotion. We were put onto the international circuit.

Sometimes it amazed me that people would pay me to do the work because it was just so much fun. Our son

Adam was born in London, so we were in Norway with two little kids. It was very cold, but it was a great place for kids!”

With a young family, another move was proposed, one that would take them to the world headquarters in Houston. Having never been, the Swanns sought advice.

“Everybody told me I had to take the job, because it would be working at the world HQ. All the Americans were saying ‘You’ll hate Houston.’ We agreed to go there for 18 months, and we really never left.” Maria adds, “We moved from the cold weather and when we arrived in Houston it was 82 degrees. I was happy right from the start!”

The oil business is constantly fraught with market turbulence, and Swann was acutely aware of this. “From 1982 to 2002 there was always the specter of when the next downturn was coming. When we first got to Houston, I was still on international projects, but in 1984 or 1985 I switched over to domestic projects. The US oil business had cut back so deeply that they didn’t have many folks with as much experience as I had. We just loved the US, and with my family in Europe, and Maria’s family in Singapore, it seemed like a natural thing to be somewhere different to make it fair on each of us. And with that, we decided that Houston would be home.”

From there, John spent the better part of the next 20 years working within the halls of Conoco’s World Headquarters. While his time spent in the jungles of Southeast Asia or the rigs of the North Sea was over, the knowledge gained there was key to his career and his unique set of skills. “I was the Skills Manager for Conoco Worldwide. I managed the careers of geologists all over the world and we had something like 500 geoscientists.

Looking for oil is all about getting a new idea that works.

So people need to have all sorts of models in their heads depending on where they are. Lessons learned in one area can be the key to finding oil on the other side of the planet.”

In 2002, the Swanns retired. While it wasn’t entirely expected, they knew that they wanted to make the most of retirement, and got started quickly. “We weren’t

planning on retiring, or at least not quite that quick.

Conoco and Phillips merged, and we took advantage of that to retire early. I read in a magazine that something like 75% of people say that when they retire they are going to the mountains or the beach or wherever and only 15% of them actually do. So we said we’re not going to be in that 15%. We put our house on the market the day we retired. It sold that day. We had no idea where we were going. Conoco used to own Purple Sage Ranch in Bandera, and I would come to Bandera and I thought it was beautiful. The night we sold the house we woke up at 3am and thought ‘what are we gonna do?’ We thought about getting an RV and just exploring the US for two years. Or we thought about buying a home somewhere.

We knew we liked it here in the Hill Country because of the climate. And we love golf. We wanted to live somewhere that had real people who were active. We wanted tennis. We wanted a good quality house that was small. That’s a lot to be looking for. A small house means lower cost sometimes, but we wanted a fine quality home. We saw an ad on the interstate leaving Houston that said LIVE HAPPY – COMANCHE TRACE. And it was the only place that fit our criteria. We certainly didn’t want to be in the big city anymore. When we got here there was only one home that fit our home criteria and with that, we moved in.”

Being relatively young retirees, the Swanns weren’t necessarily interested in slowing down. Instead, they wanted a community that was thriving and provided them the opportunity to enjoy life in the Hill Country like none other. John explains, “I was only 54 when we retired, and we didn’t want to be in a retirement community because we weren’t that old yet. This has been perfect.”

And in their new community, the Swanns have brought their passions with them. “We belong to the BMW car club and John became the Kerrville area rep for the Tejas Chapter of the BMW Car Club of America.

Each year we’ve lived here we’ve organized car club events, and Comanche Trace has been the host location

I read in a magazine that something like 75% of people say that when they retire they are going to the mountains or the beach or wherever and only 15% of them actually do. So we said we’re not going to be in that 15%.

LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011 33

for our gatherings. We’ve had over 50 BMW’s lined up on the golf-cart paths, the driving range, and the street outside the house for photo-opportunities, and our events have always included dinner and sunset views from the CT clubhouse. Just last week, we hosted 70 carclub enthusiasts for a weekend of driving and gourmet eating.”

He continues, “The roads around Kerrville are some of the finest driving-roads in the nation. People often travel many miles to enjoy highways 335, 336, and 337, which are less than an hour from our back-door. Now how cool is that? We’ve had car-club visitors from California and Oregon who came to Kerrville just to tryout those roads. The great thing is we always do one or two pre-drives of our club events, to make sure the roads are in good shape and to work on final details at the restaurants - and we often invite our Comanche Trace topless (convertible car enthusiast) neighbors to join us on these drives. Speaking of our topless car group, The Comanche Trace topless group is also gathering steam.

Whenever the weather looks good, topless roadtrips 34 LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011

are quickly organized (usually taking the long-way-round to one of the areas great restaurants). Texas wild-flower and fall-foliage seasons provide the perfect excuse for another road-trip. The number of soft-top cars in the neighborhood has grown noticeably.”

Having lived and traveled to many exotic locations, the Swanns make sure that they continue seeing the world, both for simple pleasure, and also to see their families who remain in Britain and Singapore. “We make two or three trips each year. A visit to Maria’s folks in Singapore will always involve side-trips to places like Bali, Thailand, Hong Kong, Malaysia, or even Australia and New Zealand. The last time we visited Australia we declined the direct 17- hour flight, and instead opted for the 31-hour route through Moscow and Singapore.

Whatever it takes to visit family and avoid LAX,” Swann laughs.

“A visit to England is usually combined with a side-trip to Europe or Scandinavia. And often involves purchasing a European-Delivery car. It’s an opportunity to drive at triple-digit speeds legally and we must be one of the few

families to drive the famous Nurburgring racetrack in a Volvo sedan loaded with suit-cases!”

When we caught up with the Swanns, they had just returned from a trip to see the midnight sun in Norway.

Maria said “We spent hours with our neighbors (Dean and Lisa Self) planning the trip. We used public transportation (local buses, trains, planes, ferries and ships) for the entire journey. So we got to see the country, and meet the people.”

Avid golfers, car enthusiasts, world travelers, adventurers, and residents of Comanche Trace. While they remain active and enthusiastic about all that life has to offer, they also take time to look back and appreciate all they’ve been through together. Swann explains, “As late as college, one of my goals was that I just wanted a job that paid £1000 a year, and I figured I would have everything I needed. That’s the equivalent to $40 a week. I figured that would be great. After three months I had exceeded that, so everything since then has been a wild ride.

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Everyone has goals.

Hopes. Dreams.

Like the PGA and LPGA Professionals representing “Team RBC,” you understand that achieving your goals requires thoughtful planning and flawless execution. Our financial professionals have the experience and resources to help turn your dreams into reality. www.rbcwm-usa.com

What can we help you create?

Ken Watson, AWM Vice President - Financial Consultant 819 Water Street, Suite 100 • Kerrville, TX 78028 (830) 896-8772 • (888) 662-3097 www.kennethlwatson.com Member of Comanche Trace since 2003.

Official Patron of The PGA of America ®Registered trademark of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under license. ©The PGA of America. All rights reserved.

The PGA Seal with the letters PGA is a trademark owned by The PGA of America.

RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets Corporation, Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC. BOH0492_Lifestyle_Aug_Sep_10_final.indd 1 36 LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011

6/23/10 11:22:07 AM

WHAT WILL YOU FIND AT THE CENTER?

YOU WHAT’S AT THE CENTER FOR YOU?

• FITNESS CENTER • AQUATIC CENTER • CRUSHED GRANITE WALKING TRAIL • WI-FI CAFÉ • ADULT EDUCATION CENTER • HEALTH & WELLNESS PROGRAMS

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VISIT kerrvillekroc.org OR CALL 830-315-KROC TODAY! LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011 37

EVENTS MEMBERSHIP

Club Update

CLUB NEWS AND EVENTS The Holidays are simply spectacular at Comanche Trace.

This season, join us for an elegant evening at the Candlelit Dinner, make memories at our Family Holiday Event, or just make merry at the 3rd Annual Comanche Trace Christmas Cart Parade.

38 LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011

Christmas A

t Comanche Tra

ce

Appropriately, the Holiday Season at The Club at Comanche Trace provides more varied and exciting events than at any other time of the year. There is something for everyone between Thanksgiving and New Years, starting with the “Annual Trim the Tree” event on Wednesday, December 1st at the Club.

The immensely popular “Candlelit Dinner” follows on Wednesday, December 8th. This semi-formal event is highlighted by the decorated beauty of the Vista Room and a gourmet meal by our very own Chef David Lopez.

Secure your reservations early, as seating is limited to the first 80 people.

Nothing could be more fun or unique than the “2nd Annual Comanche Trace Christmas Golf Cart Parade”. If you have a golf cart, start creating your decoration now. No Cart/No Worries!

If you don’t have one, find someone who does and get on the team. Enjoy a delicious dinner and warm cider following the parade at The Club.

Come meet Santa at the “Family Holiday Event” Tuesday, December 14th at the club. Santa is looking forward to meeting all the Comanche Trace kiddos while enjoying some food and crafts.

Well, as you can see so many exciting events have happened and we are just getting warmed-up for the soon to be Holiday season.

The staff at Comanche Trace wishes you and your family a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Watch for more details in the Comanche Trace Sunday E-blast .

Looking for the perfect gift can be a daunting task, especially during the holiday season. Give your loved ones a gift that lasts all year long. Shop at the Club of Comanche Trace and impress your friends and loved ones.

The Pinnacle Grill Restaurant at the Club at Comanche Trace has gift certificates available in denominations of $25, $50,$100 & more. For more information call 830-8958500 ext. 249.

The Golf Shop at The Club at Comanche Trace features golf attire, clubs and accessories from brands like Titleliest, Nike Golf, TaylorMade, Adidas, SunMountain, Callaway, Odyssey and Ping. For more information call 830-895-8500 ext. 248.

Gift certificates are also available for massage therapy by Comanche Trace’s own Donna Blackburn, LVN. For more information call 830-895-8500 ext. 248.

For more information about gifts available contact Sherri Jones.

Sherri Jones is the Membership Director at Comanche Trace.

She can be reached at 830-895-8500 ext. 224

LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011 39

MEMBERSHIP

Exciting Events Highlight Membership at Comanche Trace Club members at Comanche Trace have enjoyed a myriad of exciting events throughout the calendar year. In more recent events (October 6th), 55 of our Comanche Trace lady members enjoyed a day of orchards and art in Wimberley, Texas. We began the day with breakfast and a chartered bus ride stopping first at Texas’ first olive orchard, Bella Vista Ranch in Wimberley, Texas. After touring the beautiful orchards, production facilities and a brief yet in-depth presentation of olives through the ages, the ladies enjoyed a wine and olive oil tasting and lunch on the grounds. From there, we traveled to Wimberley Glass Works to admire oneof-a-kind mastery of the art of glass blowing and even see a demonstration! Special thanks 40 LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011

Vista Room at the club. This event is a member favorite, as it provides the perfect setting for interaction between old acquaintances and the greeting of new members & residents. Over 110 members had lively conversation meeting new friends and getting reacquainted with current friends. That is truly the essence of the member mixers at Comanche Trace, all while enjoying the mild, Fall Hill Country weather.

to Jack of Bella Vista for an incredible narration and tour and to Wes and Jeff of Wimberley Glass Works for a truly spectacular glass blowing demonstration.

We held numerous special events for our Comanche Trace Kids as well. Such as the Spooktacular Kids Halloween Party. Numerous Comanche Trace Kids showed up in original and creative costumes. The kids enjoyed several games including ring the pumpkin, roll the gourd & prize walk. Congratulations to Shayna and Sarah Meek who were winners of the best costume award of the evening.

A Cowboy dinner buffet highlighted the “2nd Annual Bobby Shelton and the History of Comanche Trace”. Emcee Stacy Stavinoha introduced the Shelton historian, Don Neuenschwander, who enthralled the audience with more history of Comanche Trace. Anecdotes about Bobby Shelton highlighted the presentation.

The nostalgic evening was a hit!

Sumptuous hors d’oeuvres complemented with wine and beer were just the right blend for members at the “Annual Comanche Trace Fall Member Mixer” held in the LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011 41

THE BIG FOUR

WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN RELOCATING

by Reggie Cox

42 LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011

M

uch thought should go into choosing a new place to live whether it be for retirement or just longing for something different – some of us just need a change every now and then!

Give some thought to the lifestyle you want to live. What kind of a place will fulfill your dreams?

Market research says that when you are moving because of retirement or just want to change the view out your window, there are Four Big Things you should consider:

Just what are the Big Four?

If you are looking for beautiful surroundings in addition to The Big Four, The Texas Hill Country and Kerrville have been great destinations for a long time.

For a town with a population just over 20,000, Kerrville offers it all.

1. YEAR ROUND CLIMATE FOR OUTDOOR LIVING – Kerrville is located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. There is a casual elegance about the Hill Country with its beautiful limestone hills covered with trees, clear running streams and four true seasons. Many visitors say it looks a lot like Tuscany. You can spend time outside all year long – whether it’s golfing, hiking, fishing or touring one of the many nearby wineries.

2. CULTURAL AND EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES ABOUND - Kerrville has a great art scene with galleries, art classes and all kinds of the performing arts, including the Cailloux Theater. Kerrville draws national caliber acts such as the Ten Tenors, Broadway musical groups, Chinese Acrobats, and so many more. The Cailloux is also the home of the renowned Symphony of the Hills.

In addition, Kerrville boasts the long time tradition of The Point Theater located within the complex at the Hill Country Arts Foundation where exhibits and classes with top artists from all over the country are held. The Kerr Arts & Cultural Center offers exhibits like the National Water Color Society’s annual juried show that travels to

only a few select galleries in the country. There is the annual furniture show with all of the furniture being hand crafted and one-of-a-kind pieces. Exhibitors and patrons come from all over to view this excellent show.

Culture includes food, and both Kerrville and neighboring towns offer many great places to dine.

The Pinnacle Grill at Comanche Trace is a great spot, as are Rails, Mamacitas, Franciscos, Cowboy Steakhouse, Elaine’s Table to name a few. A short drive to Fredericksburg provides a wide array of eating establishments such as: Navajo Grill, Pasta Bella, The Nest, Hill Top Cafe and many others.

Kerrville has great educational opportunities from award winning elementary schools to the full fledged and growing Schreiner University; there are abundant choices for all ages. Kerrville also offers excellent adult education programs in a great variety of subjects.

Learn about local gardening skills, all kinds of dancing, archeology, organized great trips to places all over the world, yoga, fitness, photography-- so many ways to grow and learn.

3. EXCELLENT MEDICAL FACILITIES - Peterson Regional Medical Center was completed in April of 2008. This beautiful new building offers the best in medical care. Check out their website at petersonrmc. com to learn more. Comanche Trace is located less than 5 miles from Peterson Regional Medical Center. While a

hospital may not be the first thing on your list, when you are checking out a new community, it is good to know where a good medical facility is located.

4. CLOSE PROXIMITY TO MAJOR METROPOLITAN AREA- Comanche Trace is only a few minutes to a great grocery store (in fact, Kerrville is where HEB got its start), 10-screen movie complex, good restaurants, specialty boutique shopping, the arts – all without leaving town.

But if you need a big city experience once in a while, Kerrville is an easy 45 minute drive from San Antonio.

San Antonio offers world-class dining, an International Airport, the world famous River Walk and more. The wonderful part of living in Kerrville is that you can travel to San Antonio to enjoy big city shopping at places like La Cantera all day and return to the serenity and beauty of the Hill Country to toast the sunset.

Kerrville is a town well worth considering. Once you have been here and fallen in love with the beautiful surroundings of the Texas Hill Country, a visit to Comanche Trace and the lifestyle we have to offer, including championship golf, walking trails, swimming pool, fitness center, private river park, tennis courts and the best neighbors in Texas will call you home. Come and see us today!! Come by or call our Sales Office (830895-8505) to set up your private tour of available lots and homes.

LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011 43

BOOKS

GOOD READS

This time of year is there anything bettter than a great book and a warm fire? Below we’ve compiled a little recommended reading for the chilly nights ahead.

ALL THE DEVILS ARE HERE JULIA CHILD

MY PASSION FOR DESIGN

MARILYN, AUGUST 1953

AS ALWAYS, JULIA

In her first book, Barbra Streisand reveals another aspect of her talent: the taste and style that have inspired her beautiful homes and collections.

A culmination and reflection of Streisand’s love of American architecture and design between the eighteenth and twentieth centuries, the book contains many of her own photographs of the rooms she has decorated, the furniture and art she has collected, and the ravishing gardens she has planted on her land on the California coast.

In 1953, John Vachon, then a photographer for LOOK magazine, snapped dozens of candid shots of Marilyn Monroe in the Canadian Rockies — only three were ever published. This beautiful hardcover collects those unseen photographs for the first time, capturing the sex symbol in intimate, unguarded moments: lounging poolside, riding a ski lift, and snuggling with Joe DiMaggio. Includes facsimiles of handwritten letters

by Vachon and insightful original essays. 102 duotone photos.

Many Julia Child followers already know the story of her extensive letter writing to “pen pal” Avis DeVoto, which began when DeVoto replied to a fan letter Child had sent to her husband, Bernard. But this volume marks the first appearance of their complete correspondence. Painstakingly compiled by editor Reardon (thanks to new archival access), the letters tell the incredible story of the rocky development of Child’s chef d’oeuvre, Mastering the Art of French Cooking (1961).

BARBRA STREISAND

JOHN VACHON

44 LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011

JULIA CHILD

As soon as the financial crisis erupted, the finger-pointing began. Should the blame fall on Wall Street, Main Street, or Pennsylvania Avenue? On greedy traders, misguided regulators, sleazy subprime companies, cowardly legislators, or clueless home buyers?

The real answer is all of the above-and more. Many devils helped bring hell to the economy. And the full story, in all of its complexity and detail, is like the legend of the blind men and the elephant. Almost everyone has missed the big picture. Almost no one has put all the pieces together.

All the Devils Are Here goes back several decades to weave the hidden history of the financial crisis in a way no previous book has done.

It explores the motivations of everyone from famous CEOs, cabinet secretaries, and politicians to anonymous lenders, borrowers, analysts, and Wall Street traders.

OPUS VINO JIM GORDON

The world of wine has changed since Hugh Johnson’s groundbreaking World Atlas of Wine was published in the 1970s. More countries are producing fine wine and wine professionals have moved away from the view that geography alone determines quality of fine wine and winemaking.

Written by a new generation of wine critics with up-to-date, in-depth knowledge of the different wine regions, the wineries and their wines, Opus Vino provides greater coverage to the wine world than any other illustrated wine book. Organized by country, and then broken down into regions, districts, and wineries, the book looks at more than 4,500 individual wineries, identifies each region’s top producers and its rising stars, and entries cover the owner, grapes, wine styles, and their best wines.

Professional Management of your Hill Country Property

Whether you live in the Texas Hill Country full- or part-time, allow yourself the comfort, security, confidence & free time that private residence management provides.

End lost time to be with family and friends because you must wait for a tradesman or delivery.

Feel confident in leaving your home for adventures or business, knowing we will be there regularly to check and report to you anything that might go wrong.

Know that someone responsible and professional is watching out for your interests rather than depend on neighbors or workers.

For a private and personal conference and evaluation of your Private Residence Management needs, please contact us at your convenience to schedule an appointment.

(830) 443-4445 | SpareMyTime.com | info@sparemytime.com LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011 45

Beautiful Outdoor Patio | Gifts & Gourmet Specialities Full Service Post Office | Hunting & Fishing Licenses Come relax in the shade, enjoy an ice-cold soft drink, have a one-of-a-kind sandwich from our enticing lunch menu, and savor some of our freshly-baked treats. Save time to shop our irresistible collection of gifts and fine food items!

Lunch served daily from 11am - 3pm

Meet Some Bankers Who Love to Work Overtime

Wes Dorman Wealth Advisor

Bob Waller Market Manager

Randy Johnson Wealth Advisor

These three bankers have a lot in common. They all work at Broadway Bank. They are all passionate about what they do. And they willingly give of their time, energies and resources to organizations that make a difference for us all—like the Dietert Senior Center, Kerr Economic Development Foundation, the Chamber of Commerce, United Way, Rotary, YMCA, Riverside Nature Center, and others.

Just ask Wes Dorman, Bob Waller or Randy Johnson.

285 Camp Verde Road East,Camp Verde, Texas 78010 | 830-634-7722 Open Daily 9AM - 6PM | CampVerdeGeneralStore.com 46 LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011

Kerrville Banking Center | 500 Main Street | 830.896.2950 38 Neighborhood Banking Centers | broadwaybank.com | Member FDIC

hand-crafted furniture

custom design work

rugs from around the world

411 Junction Hwy. Kerrville, Texas 78028 830-257-4716 rusticelegancetx.com open 7 days a week

LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011 47

HOME TOUR

48 LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011

HILL COUNTRY CONTEMPORARY

By Alison Turner

Photography By Lamb Creek

Contemporary Hill Country inhabits a middle ground between Tuscan and contemporary architecture, a happy medium that’s clean but not cold. The designs feature straight lines and squared openings in lieu of arches and warm colors.

Take a look at the residence of Kent and Janet McKinney, a contemporary home with distinctive characteristics.

Almost the entire exterior of the home is made of glass and steel to showcase expansive views of the Hill Country.

The interior of the home incorporates native materials, like Sisterdale limestone, and more exotic ones like the bamboo floors, slate tile work in the bathrooms and the light fir woodwork throughout the house.

PHOTO COURTESY OF LAMB CREEK

LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011 49

PHOTO COURTESYOF LAMB CREEK

Work for Kent and Janet McKinney has taken them on a journey across the United States and far away from their native Kansas lands, but they’ve found a home for themselves at Comanche Trace.

Settling into semi-retirement on the Puget Sound in Washington state, they could not quite find themselves completely at home.

“People have been nice everywhere we’ve lived,” Janet said. “But Washington was more liberal than we would have preferred. On top of that, much of the economy in Puget Sound was very seasonal and dependent on tourism.

There wasn’t much to do outside of the tourist center.”

The McKinneys found themselves in 50 LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011

Kerrville in 1996 visiting old friends from school and the local culture seemed like a natural fit. “The more we came to visit, the more people we would get to know,” Kent said. “We met quite a few people and really liked the area.”

As the McKinneys became more serious about relocation to the Hill Country, they began to look at their varied options. They were drawn specifically to Comanche Trace by the lively community atmosphere. “I play a little golf, not as much as I’d like, but Comanche Trace has a great golf course, a good community and a good clubhouse,” Kent said. “We like that Comanche Trace has a really active community base.”

“This takes us back to our conservative, Midwestern roots,” Janet added. “Texas wants to grow; it’s progressive. People are positive and they work hard. Things are happening here.”

This thriving economy led the McKinneys to buy a home at Comanche Trace and eventually make it their main residence as they moved to Texas full time.

After making the move to Comanche Trace, the McKinneys began hunting for a lot to build a custom home. “Stacy Stavinoha sold us this lot [on Trace Circle].

I remember her saying, ‘Oh it doesn’t look like much when you drive in from the cul-de-sac, but it has a great view,’” Kent said. “She was right. You walk out

on the lot and there aren’t many houses obstructing your view. We would have driven right by it.”

The house they would eventually build with Mike Stavinoha of Stavinoha Enterprises Fine Homes and architect Mark Eubank draws on elements of their former home in Puget Sound and local materials and elements to create a unique, contemporary Hill Country home.

Contemporary Hill Country inhabits a middle ground between Tuscan and contemporary architecture, a happy medium that’s clean but not cold.

The designs feature straight lines and squared openings in lieu of arches and warm colors. Upon first approaching the McKinney’s home there’s no mistaking

its unique qualities. The adjoining garage is outfitted with glass and steel doors, letting visitors know this is no ordinary Hill Country home.

Once inside, visitors are treated to an expansive view out the back of the house, made almost entirely of glass windows.

“One of the features that was a must in this house was to incorporate indoor and outdoor living,” Janet said. “When we were in Washington, we lived on the water and the architect made terrific views for us. This is very similar to our Washington house in that it’s almost completely made of glass on one side.” The glass walls make the views of Hole #6 of The Hills golf course an exceptional one. The McKinneys take in the undulating topography of the golf course which mirrors the rolling waters showcased outside their home on the Puget Sound. “Everyone walks in and says that this is a great view. The windows really make it,” Kent said.

Another distinctive characteristic of the home lies in its site design. “We used the topography of the land because Janet didn’t want rock retaining walls,” Mark said. “The result is a house that steps down a couple of levels from left to right to match the land and curves slightly. Even with a relatively flat lot like

the McKinneys’, you still have to deal with some degree of drop in the lot.”

The interior of the home incorporates native materials, like Sisterdale limestone, and more exotic ones like the bamboo floors, slate tile work in the bathrooms and the light fir woodwork throughout the house. The McKinneys’ furniture, also a holdover from their Washington house, fits seamlessly with the feel of their new home. Various other accents have been gathered from their journeys across the globe. A Chinese clay warrior guards the entrance, a brass Celtic plate welcomes visitors and upon entering the home, a sculpture of the University of Kansas Jayhawk mascot lets everyone know where their NCAA loyalties lie.

The home is not only beautiful but functional. The common areas see the most use in the McKinneys’ busy lives.

“We use the den and the living room area the most, but it’s pretty balanced. We eat all of our meals in the breakfast area,” Janet said.

The McKinneys have enjoyed the design and building process on their Comanche Trace Drive home. After a more difficult build with their Washington home, Kent and Janet understood the importance of a solid relationship with LIFESTYLE LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2010/2011 2010 5151

both builder and architect. “We had a great time working with Mike [Stavinoha] and Mark [Eubank] through this whole process,” Janet said. “When we built our home in Washington, we had an award-winning architect who had his own ideas and we didn’t have a good experience with the other builder. He wanted to do everything his way and we didn’t feel very involved in the process. I think he just wanted to operate on his own.”

Kent continued, “Our experience with Mike was completely different. He would invite us over all the time and keep us apprised of what they were doing on certain days. We felt very involved.”

Mike’s road to Comanche Trace mirrors that of the McKinneys. After selling a business in 2001, Mike tried his hand at retirement. After moving from San Antonio to Bend, Oregon, and even having a home in Canada, the Stavinohas found that they weren’t settling in as well as they liked. Besides lacking a great golf course, the Northwestern mindset didn’t make the Stavinohas feel at home. So they too, searched for something closer to their roots.

“I came to Kerrville for the weather, the golf course and the Hill Country,” Mike said. “The biggest appeal was I had an eight-year old at the time and we were looking for a true community. We looked at Boerne but we didn’t want to move to any place that was a bedroom community of San Antonio. The kids here don’t go to San Antonio to go to the movies because they have their own movie theater. We have everything we need right here in Kerrville.”

After the Stavinohas moved to Kerrville, Mike decided it was time to get back to business. “I had built some personal homes over the years and it was something that I was passionate about,” Mike said. “I started by building our house here in Comanche Trace seven years ago and have been building homes ever since.”

Mike truly enjoyed working on the McKinneys’ homes and all the challenges it entailed.

“For me, I’ll never get a chance to build a home as unique as this one,” Mike said. “Simply the amount of galvanized steel in this house is unreal. Engineering-wise it was a real challenge, but the beauty of it is that it was a very intricate house to build but looks very simple and streamline.”

All the credit for planning goes to Mark Eubank for taking the McKinney’s desires for their home and melding them into a functional, livable structure. “Mark did a great job. We had much more input with Mark than our Washington architect. He had won quite a few awards but was not interested in our input. We had much 52 LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011

more input in this house,” Janet said.

Mark received rave reviews for the responsiveness to his clients’ needs. The outlook behind his success is a simple one: try to incorporate the clients’ wishes with what’s possible with the land. Mark was equally thrilled by the chance to take on such a unique project.

“It’s an unusual client that comes through and wants modern,” Mark said. “We built a house that’s compatible with community but distinctive.

The McKinneys initiated a design criteria that was modern and contemporary. It’s truly a custom home.”

Though there were a few hurdles as in any building process, Mike, Mark and the McKinneys remain fast friends. “We would definitely pick Mike and Mark again. I think there’s some great builders around here. But Mike was comfortable getting out of that box to build a unique house like this and I’m not sure all builders would.”

H

OME TOUR CHECKLIST

3,600 sq feet 3 bedrooms plus study 3 baths, one half-bath and one outdoor shower View: Hole #6 on The Hills Course BUILDER: Stavinoha Enterprises Fine Homes DESIGNER: Mark Eubank POOL Liquid Assets CABINETS: Curtis Reeder Cabinets

Residential Planning & Construction | Design/Architect & Custom Homes | Professional Attention to Detail

Brad Moore Builders 830-438-3240 www.bradmoorebuilders.com

LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011 53

Your Life.

Our Calling.

kerrvilletitle.com

Ann Robertson, President Clay Robertson, Vice-President

290 Thompson Drive • Kerrville, TX 78028 • 830.896.5811 54 LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011

.

551 Hill Country Drive Kerrville TX 830-896-4200 www.petersonrmc.com

EXQUISITE PROPERTIES LISTINGS BY COMANCHE TRACE REALTY Stop by our sales office for a personal tour of our growing community.

Comanche Trace Realty 2801 Comanche Trace Drive - Kerrville, TX 78028 Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm: Sunday 1pm-5pm 830.895.8505 or toll free 877.467.6282 www.comanchetrace.com

56 Feature House

A peek inside this elegant French Country Home

58 Baby Boomer Buying Incentive Rebates for Buyers

59 Comanche Trace Realty Current Listings

LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011 55

COMANCHE TRACE REALTY

Feature

HOUSE

3312 ARROWHEAD DRIVE APPROX 3600 SQUARE FEET 4 BEDROOOMS PLUS STUDY AND BONUS ROOM 3.5 BATHS 3 CAR GARAGE

T

his Elegant French Country home is

situated on a magnificent golf course lot and is built with quality and attention to detail.

The four bedrooms plus study and three and half baths are perfect for a growing family, or someone who enjoys having guests. The bonus room can be used as a workout room, game room, or anything your imagination can dream up.

56 LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011

TAKE A LOOK INSIDE

The gorgeous kitchen has a Wolf gas range, double ovens, a warming drawer, BOSCH dishwasher and Sub-Zero fridge. The formal dining room has beautiful mesquite floors, complemented by a wonderful vaulted wood ceiling in the great room. This home is just calling out for some family fun, casual entertaining, or a formal dinner party!

Beautiful Marvin wood windows are used throughout the home. The threecar garage has RaceDeck® flooring, a sink and many built-ins. You will enjoy great views and a relaxed lifestyle off the back patio and the large fenced yard overlooks the championship golf course.

All of this is in a vibrant, active community in the beautiful setting of the Hill Country. What are you waiting

For a personal tour of this property please contact Comanche Trace Realty at 830.895.8505 or 877.467.6282.

for? Why not call it home?

LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011 57

C o m a n c h e

T r ac e

Whether You’re a Baby or a Boomer, Comanche Trace Has the Incentive that Works for You! 2% Rebate up to $8000 when you buy a property listed with Comanche Trace Realty and sold by one of our agents* The Value is Unmatched, and Our Growing Community Shows It. The Comanche Trace Lifestyle - It’s Catching!

Comanche Trace Realty • 2801 Comanche Trace Drive • Kerrville, Texas 78028 877.467.6282 comanchetrace.com * Please visit the Sales and Real Estate Office at Comanche Trace for more details on our Baby Boomer Incentive Program (Not affiliated with any government program- Time-limited offer.)

58 LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011

3801 CLUBHOUSE RD, #4 Approx. 2000 square feet 3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, 1 car garage plus cart storage.

Price: $325,000

2796 INDIAN WELLS 3 Bedrooms, 3 Baths, 2 Car Garage including Casita.

Approx. 1970 square feet Price: $309,000

This golf Villa with a lot of Tuscan style is light and airy with a large dining room for entertaining. Cast stone fireplace in great room - Very nice master suite with jetted tub and large shower. Hand-troweled walls, double crown molding, granite counter tops, instant hot water, tile roof, and ceiling fans in all rooms. Located in gated neighborhood of 18 villas.

Yards are maintained by HOA for monthly fee.

Enjoy the Hill Country lifestyle in your private courtyard or on your back patio. This home has slate floors throughout and a Casita for guests or office space. Kitchen has stainless steel appliances, granite countertops and alder cabinets. The private courtyard with fireplace is perfect for enjoying the evenings.

1073 PINNACLE 3 Bedrooms plus Study, 3.5 Baths, 2 Car Garage plus Cart Garage.

Approx. 4,400 square feet Price: $997,000

2784 INDIAN WELLS 3 bedrooms, 3 baths (Including casita), 2 car garage.

Approx. 2000 squarefeet Price: $375,000

The views from this beautiful hacienda-style home will take your breath away the moment you step inside. The spacious, open floor plan is the ultimate for entertaining.

Gorgeous mesquite wood floors, hand-crafted wood interior doors and wood beams add warmth and beauty. The large master suite includes a luxurious bath with private courtyard, his and hers closets, air tub, large shower and three sinks.

Kitchen Aid and Jenn Air appliances include gas cook top, built in fridge, trash compactor, double oven and an icemaker. Enjoy hill country living at its best on the covered patio overlooking the golf course, lake and surrounding hills.

This open floor plan features granite countertops in the kitchen, custom plantation shutters, hand-scraped wood floors, and an enclosed courtyard with a custom door that is ideal for a quiet evening by the fireplace. The bonus room adjacent to the living room is perfect for an office or reading room.

The extras in this home are fabulous!

LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011 59

2777 INDIAN WELLS 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, 2 Car Garage Approx. 1627 square feet Price: $249,000

3004 PINNACLE CLUB COURT, #1 Approx. 2800 square feet 3 bedrooms plus study, 2 1/2 baths 2 car garage plus cart storage.

Price: $399,900

Enjoy this cozy home with a wood-burning fireplace and a fully fenced back yard.

A large kitchen and dining space make entertaining easy!

The master bedroom features an extra large walk-in shower and double sinks.

This stunning carriage home overlooking the golf course has custom drapery in the living room and plantation shutters throughout. The living area features an 18 ft. cathedral ceiling and a limestone fireplace with gas starter.

Prepare for a dinner party in your kitchen with granite countertops, built-in Sub Zero refrigerator, and butcher-block island. You won’t run out of wine with the customized pass-through from the wine storage.

Give your overnight guests privacy with the two bedrooms upstairs and a large shared bathroom.

There is also a separate utility room and loads of extra storage.

2092 TOSCANO WAY 4 Bedrooms (including casita), 4.5 Baths, 2 Car Garage Approx. 2493 square feet Price: $474,500

60 LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011

This lovely garden home offers a relaxed lifestyle overlooking Hole no. 2 and the lake of The Valley course.

Tile roof, stone and stucco exterior and a great covered patio beckon you home.

The kitchen has stainless steel appliances, cherry cabinets, granite surfaces and is open to the dining/family rooms making it perfect for entertaining.

The master bedroom has a walk-in closet, double sinks, tub and separate shower.

The guest rooms and casita each have their own full baths!

This is a fantastic buy!

2908 DRY HOLLOW

3 bedrooms plus study, 3 baths, 2 car garage.

Approx. 2400 square feet Price: $449,000 Hill Country charm at its finest.

Enjoy sitting on the large front porch or relaxing on the back patio with low wall surrounding entertainment area. The view is overlooking green space, pond and the hill country. This open floor plan is perfect for entertaining inside or out. Beautiful finish outs throughout this home include stone walls, wood floors, vaulted wood ceiling, copper wall and travertine or slate in baths. Kitchen has tumbled marble countertops and stainless steel appliances.

PHASE 11 LOT 20 Price: $149,000 Approx. 0.40 acre

PHASE 11 LOT 56 Price: $110,000 Approx. .493

This single-family lot on a quiet cul-de-sac in the newest phase of Comanche Trace overlooks the lake and Hole No. 7 of The Creeks course.

Level build site with 5 year build time.

Experience all the beauty the hill country has to offer when you build your home on this fantastic lot.

You’ll love all of the mature trees and wonderful views of the surrounding hill country on this fantastic lot.

Set on Pinnacle View Drive, this lot is just waiting for you to build your dream home. Come home to Comanche Trace and catch the lifestyle so many others have found so satisfying.

PHASE 8 LOT 56 Price $93,000

P PHASE 11 LOT 43 Price: $115,000 Approx. 0.41 acre

Build your dream home in Tuscan Village! The DaVinci Plan is ready to begin. An architectural planned neighborhood featuring approximately 2300-2700 square-foot primarily single story plans with spectacular views of the surrounding hill country.

Enjoy the ultimate lifestyle of Comanche Trace - all within your own community.

Surrounded by the #2 and #7 fairways and greens, each homesite offers a spectacular view of its own. Exquisite Tuscan-style architecture and first class amenities and this lot is on-golf.

Just look at the views!

Beautiful on-golf lot on Pinnacle View Drive with great views of golf and surrounding hill country.

Level build site with mature trees in the back. After a fine day playing any of our 27 holes of championship golf you will love the peace and quiet on your back patio.

LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011 61

Our bank fits in the palm of your hand.

Stay connected to your money . . .

Go mobile!

With our new free mobile banking you can manage your finances on any Internet-enabled mobile device.

• Check balances • Pay bills online • Locate ATMs • Transfer funds • Set account alerts • View transaction history • Go green—save paper and trips to the bank

Kerrville’s Bank.

Sign up for convenient mobile banking today!

M E M B E R

COnVenIenT | SeCure | eASy

FDIC INSURED

1309 Bandera Highway

|

Kerr ville, T X 78028

62 LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011

|

830.792.1950

|

w w w.guadalupenational.com

KEY CONTACTS

Your home for home furnishings since 1947.

KEY CONTACTS COMANCHE TRACE WELCOME AND SALES CENTER 830-895-8505 or 877-467-6282 THE CLUB AT COMANCHE TRACE 830-895-8500 THE GOLF SHOP AT COMANCHE TRACE 830-895-8500 ext. 1 THE PINNACLE GRILL 830-895-8500 ext. 249 TREVOR HYDE, COMANCHE TRACE PRESIDENT 830-895-8505 ext.228 • thyde@comanchetrace.com REGGIE COX, COMANCHE TRACE BROKER 830-895-8505 ext. 232 • rcox@comanchetrace.com RENEE ELLIS, COMANCHE TRACE SALES EXECUTIVE 830-895-8505 ext. 229 • rellis@comanchetrace.com STACY STAVINOHA, COMANCHE TRACE SALES EXECUTIVE 830-895-8505 ext. 224 • sstavinoha@comanchetrace.com SHERRI JONES, MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR AND EVENTS COORDINATOR 830-895-8500 ext. 224 • sjones@comanchetrace.com TONY JOHNSON, HEAD GOLF PROFESSIONAL 830-895-8500 ext. 238 • tjohnson@comanchetrace.com SCOTT PARKER, GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENT 830-257-3745 • sparker@comanchetrace.com MICHAEL PARKER, CONTROLLER

EVERY DAY. LOW PRICES. GUARANTEED.

830-895-8500 ext. 227 • mparker@comanchetrace.com

1703 Sidney Baker Kerrville, Texas 78028 (830) 895-2104

830-895-8500 ext. 226 • jcurwen@comanchetrace.com

JODEE CURWEN, ACCOUNTS PAYABLE

Mon - Fri: 9am - 7pm Saturday: 9am - 6pm ricksfurniturecompany.com

Locally Owned and Operated

•

1947-2010

DENNIS GLENEWINKEL, HOA MANAGER 830-257-5330 • dglenewinkel@micocpa.com DONNA BOWYER, PERSONAL TRAINER 830-739-0888 • dbowyer@stx.rr.com JANE GARBISH, PERSONAL TRAINER 830-370-9905 • janegarbish@yahoo.com

LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011 63

PET PROFILE

PET PROFILE

By Alison Turner

64 LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011

In the home of Norm and Ellen White, the two most cherished “pets” are Abbey, a Labrador retriever puppy, and a 1968 Ford Mustang Fastback GT. Here is a little more about these priceless additions to the Whites’ lives.

PET PROFILE

THE CAR

MAKE/MODEL: Ford Mustang GT Fastback AGE: 42 (1968) SPECS: “Viper Blue” with PPG 663 White Stripes, 351 Cleveland V8 Ford AOD Automatic Transmission Ford Nodular 3.25 28 spline traction lock rear end, power steering/ power breaks A/M F/M cassette radio Intro 17 inch wheels and tires Completely restored in 2005 with completion in June by R&S Automotive in Freedom, Pennsylvania.

FUN FACT: Placed in 15 of the last 18 auto shows entered

PET PROFILE

THE DOG

ABBEY 18 months old From Chapell Hill, TX Classic Labs Norm fell in love with Labs after working with drug dogs in the Houston Police Department.

His first lab, also from Classic Labs, was named Jake. Jake passed away recently from bone cancer at the age of 12. Jake got to the point where he could spell G-O, W-A-L-K, and other words -there was no fooling him.

Ellen and Norm got Abbey from Classic Labs, as the house was so quiet. She’s mainly a companion dog and is quite vivacious, hyper and outgoing. She can sit, stay, shake and loves to pick up the newspapers in the morning. In fact, she knows there are two papers and if one of them hasn’t shown up yet she goes looking for the second one—even if it’s the neighbor’s.

Abbey loves to travel and goes everywhere with the Whites. From riding around in Norm’s golf cart to going offroading in their Jeep, she has already logged quite a few miles. She even loves to go RVing and recently traveled to Colorado. She’s best buddies with the Southwick’s dogs next door, enjoys playing Frisbee and chasing butterflies. When she gets a little older and calms down, Ellen wants her to participate in the K-9 Literacy Program at local schools.

Norm and Ellen White moved to Comanche Trace in 2006 from Houston. They had traveled to Kerrville for years in their RV and decided to move to Comanche Trace for the golf course and the peaceful surroundings.

NEW MEMBERS TIM AND JAYNE SMITH Comanche Trace is pleased to welcome its newest members, Tim and Jayne Smith. Tim and Jayne join us from Sonoma, California, having recently sold their home. The Smiths have made Comanche Trace their residence while building their custom home in phase 10. They look forward to moving into their new home next year. Tim is a police department retiree with 30 years of dedicated service. Tim enjoys a lively round of golf while Jayne is interested in the Comanche Trace Book Club and other Comanche Trace activities. Welcome, Tim and Jayne!

JOHN AND CONNIE OWENS Comanche Trace is pleased to welcome its newest members, John and Connie Owens. John and Connie recently moved to Kerrville from Tyler, Texas, and are looking forward to all the activities that are offered through a Comanche Trace membership. They also look forward to being closer to family and making new friends. Other family members include Max and Mati - their two beloved Golden Retrievers. Welcome, John, Connie, Max and Mati!

JACK & MARGARET CAREY Jack and Margaret are in the process of setting up their new Comanche Trace home. They come to us from Highlands Ranch, Colorado. Jack & Margaret enjoy a lively game of golf & all the social events Comanche Trace has to offer. Welcome, Jack and Margaret!

TOM & DONNA HILLIN Tom & Donna just moved into their new Comanche Trace home. They come to us from Houston, but have had a ranch in the area for years.

Now that Tom is semi-retired they look forward to getting involved with their new neighbors and building new friendships. They love the social atmosphere CT offers. Donna has been an active member of a Mahjongg group in Houston and is REALLY excited about our group.

KYLE STALLING FRANK SHUMATE LARRY & ROSE LEEWRIGHT

LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011 65

beauty

serving our clients, workers, & families by creating outdoor environments of lasting beauty.

Design & Consultation

Retaining Walls • Patio & Walkway

Water Features • Exterior Lighting Decorative Fencing • Putting greens Outdoor Kitchens & Cabanas “Zack, we

reveled in sitting out back and gazing

at the new plants and vistas. it’s wonderful!”

-Mrs. Williams San antonio int’l airport

Kerrville Landscaping 830-896-6981 • 830-377-4861 • KerrvilleLandscaping.com

66 LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011

SCHrEinEr UniV.

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important to

you and your family

No matter what shot life gives you, we’re here to help make sure you’re covered.

texas hills is local and here to take care of your insurance needs. With all of life’s risks, the greatest risk of all is not knowing Texas Hills Insurance.

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(830) 257-1280

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LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011 67

LIFESTYLE Magazine 2733 Indian Wells Drive Kerrville, TX 78028

68 LIFESTYLE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2010/2011