19 minute read
THE REVIEW Sweet romances set in Texas in the 1850s & today
Fall in Love with Texas
Pick up these charming series set in the Lone Star State
By M. CLARE HAEFNER
One of my favorite historical fiction authors, Amanda Cabot, set her newest series in the Texas Hill Country in the 1850s. Out of the Embers (Revell, March 2020) starts the Mesquite Springs trilogy with a suspenseful story that, like all of Cabot’s historic Christian novels, mixes in some sweet romance.
Ten years after her parents were murdered, Evelyn Radcliffe still can’t shake the feeling that she’s being watched. When the orphanage that was her refuge is burned to the ground, Evelyn sets out to make a new life for herself and 6-year-old Polly in Mesquite Springs. When trouble follows, Evelyn knows she needs help, but is reluctant to trust rancher Wyatt Clark, especially when she learns his dreams don’t include a ready-made family.
The story continues in Dreams Rekindled (Revell, March 2021), focusing on Wyatt’s sister, Dorothy Clark, whose ambition in life is to write another novel that stirs things up like Harriet Beecher Stowe’s Uncle Tom’s Cabin. When dashing newspaper man Brandon Holloway sets up shop, Dorothy hopes she’ll get the chance to make her dreams come true, but another newcomer has very different plans for Mesquite Springs and its newspaper.
Dreams Rekindled was just as charming as Out of the Embers, with more romance in the air and mysteries to solve as the plot unfolds and the characters discover the healing power of truth. My own journey as a writer helped me relate to the characters on a deeper level and my investigative skills had me reading between the lines to unravel what would happen next.
I’m looking forward to the series’ conclusion, which Cabot says is coming soon, to see how it all plays out.
MODERN-DAY ROMANCES FROM EMILY MARCH
If contemporary tales are more your thing, pick up the latest novel from author Emily March (a Texas A&M graduate) and find out why troubled souls find peace in Enchanted Canyon.
Boone (St. Martin’s Paperbacks, December 2020) completes the Eternity Springs: The McBrides of Texas trilogy that’s part of March’s wider Eternity Springs collection (the McBride books are officially numbers 16-18 in the series).
Most of the McBride trilogy is set in Redemption, Texas, which is in the opposite direction of Ruin in case you were wondering. This charming Hill Country romance features lots of references any longtime Texan will appreciate, including Enchanted Rock, which is in the vicinity of this fictional tourist town that reminds me of Fredericksburg.
Like the other books in the collection, Boone can be read as a stand-alone, but will be more enjoyable if you read Jackson (St. Martin’s Paperbacks, June 2019) and Tucker (St. Martin’s Paperbacks, February 2020) first, as Boone and his McBride cousins have interwoven story lines throughout each book as each McBride must come to terms with his past to find love and a permanent place to call home.
I started reading the McBrides of Texas trilogy on the recommendation of a friend who knows I’m always on the hunt for good books set in Texas or written by Texas authors. I enjoyed March’s witty, fast-paced, character-driven romances so much that I plan to read the entire Eternity Springs series, even if most of the novels are set in Colorado. When I've finished that collection, I’ll check out her six-part Brazos Bend series along with her other contemporary and historical romances.
You can check out her recommended reading order at emilymarch.com.
THE SOW’S EAR CUSTOM WOOD WORKS Master Craftsmen
— Amanda Parker
By AMY ROGNLIE | Photos by JUSTIN BORJA
They say you can’t make a silk purse out of a sow’s ear, but Jason and Amanda Parker of The Sow’s Ear Custom Wood Works have proven that’s not true.
From their humble beginnings of producing simple farm tables in their Temple garage, the Central Texas couple has expanded their services to include just about anything you can think of made from wood.
“We’ve done handcrafted dining tables and chairs, entertainment centers, coffee and end tables, dressers and nightstands, headboards, bunk beds, sliding barn doors of any size, kitchen islands and cabinets, bathroom vanities, wood counter tops and mantels. We use reclaimed, antique lumber as well as new wood in a variety of species, including pine, knotty alder, hickory, pecan, oak, maple, cedar and walnut,” Amanda says.
Jason, a craftsman at heart, has built the business by constantly stretching himself to learn new skills. “I think the key to our growth was that we rarely said ‘no’, even if we were asked to create something we had no idea how to build. Whether it was cabinetry, custom stair and balcony railing or custom entry doors, we took the job and then researched, tinkered and figured it out,” he says.
Jason and two employees build all of the projects, while Amanda is in charge of finishing each piece to their clients’ specifications. “Jason and I love working together every day and make a good team,” she says with a smile.
A far cry from their garage, The Sow’s Ear’s 8,000-square-foot workshop is now located on Highway 36 in the old Pioneer Ballroom and Bar. As a nod to the building’s colorful history in Bell County, the Parkers have kept the disco ball hanging from the ceiling and turned the beer cooler into a wood-drying kiln. “We had some folks who were a little disappointed that we were not reopening the bar,” Jason says.
However, no one is disappointed in the loving attention the couple gives each piece. “I think what makes us unique is that every piece we build is completely custom; built to the exact needs and desires of each client. Whether it’s a dining table, Continued
— Jason Parker
sliding barn door, entry door, media center or whatever, often clients come to us because they can’t find what they are looking for in any store,” Amanda says. “We don't limit ourselves to only building any one style of furnishings.”
Far from mass-producing furniture, the Parkers pour their hearts and souls into their work. Some of their favorite projects are what they call heirloom pieces — doors, benches, and dining room tables, just to name a few. “I love building furniture that will stay in a family and be passed down from generation to generation,” Jason says. He gestures toward a partially-built bookcase. “That bookcase will be around long after Amanda and I are gone… someone somewhere will own it.”
IF YOU GO The Sow’s Ear Custom Wood Works 2507 E. Texas Highway 36, Temple Phone: 254-721-0045 Email: info@thesowseartexas.com Online: https://www.thesowseartexas.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-SowsEar-Custom-Wood-Works-1022047807819828/
Kay and Mike Lynch own Earthscapes Garden & Home in Temple.
By JANNA ZEPP | Photos by JUSTIN BORJA
Many Texans had (or still have) a grandmother, more often than not called “Gammy,” who kept a back porch greenhouse at her home full of lush, green plants that were her special guilty pleasure. And those Texans with a “greenhouse gammy” remember loving to wander around that little, warm oasis every time they went to see her. It was a chance to spend time with her and learn every plant’s name, what the name meant and how to care for it. That greenhouse was full of humidity, the smell of plant fertilizer and the undeniable feelings of joy and love.
If you did not have a grandparent with a green thumb, don’t worry. You can experience a little of that essential Texas family experience at
Earthscapes Garden & Home at 5713 Loop 205 Drive in Temple. The shop at which you enter is filled with all sorts of interesting soaps, lotions and home décor that take you back to another era or a stress-free time in your life. There are shady spots on porches around the place to sit and enjoy the view, and it is tempting to bring an iced drink with you just to sit and relax. Owners, Mike and Kay Lynch make you feel like family the moment you walk in.
“We love using our abilities to draw people's attentions to God's creations. It is so fun and rewarding to help make our customers’ dreams a reality, whether for an indoor jungle or backyard oasis,” says Kay.
The Lynches have worked on many commercial projects that have improved and enhanced the beauty of Central Texas. Kay says that in their residential designs, they have also helped many people make their house a home, drawing on creativity and expansive knowledge of plants that will thrive in this area. “Before we were married, Mike and I met at Texas A&M University, where we were both studying Landscape Architecture. After we graduated, Mike started working in Temple since he's from Troy, while I gained experience in Dallas,” says Kay. “Eventually in June of 1987, we decided to take the leap and start our own business together. We've been open and serving the Central Texas area for over 33 years as a local Continued
garden center and gift shop, as well as professional landscape architects.”
The Lynches never stop learning and growing in landscape design. They stay current on trends in landscaping styles through continuing education programs so that architectural plans are relevant to their customers’ needs and desires.
“As a family-owned business, we pride ourselves on our customer service. We recognize that people are at various points in their plant-parent journey and we are eager to help no matter what your experience,” says Mike.
The greenhouse behind the shop is worth the trip. It’s full of vibrant greenery and if you’re having a little trouble deciding which plant to take home, Freckles the Nursery Cat is available to help you, as only cats can do.
“Freckles has been here since she was a kitten. She has her routine around the place and she gets a little sad when we all go home in the evening,” says Mike, giving the cat a scratch behind the ears. “Sometimes I think the customers come to see her as much as they come to see us.” For more information, find Earthscapes online at earthscapesintemple.com or on Facebook as Earthscapes Garden & Home, call 254-773-4668 or email at earthscapes@hot.rr.com.
The American Dream The American Dream comes alivecomes alive
Central Texans can experience their dream This year’s Parade of Homes™ will feature 11 Central Texans can experience their dream This year’s Parade of Homes™ will feature 11 come true in one of the homes during the Builders and a record breaking 15 homes. All come true in one of the homes during the Builders and a record breaking 15 homes. All Temple Area Builders Association 2021 Parade™ homes will be open to the public on Temple Area Builders Association 2021 Parade™ homes will be open to the public on Parade of Homes™. Parade of Homes™. two weekends again this year: from 6 p.m. two weekends again this year: from 6 p.m. Kacie Beevers, Executive Officer of the to 8 p.m. Friday, April 16th; from noon to Kacie Beevers, Executive Officer of the to 8 p.m. Friday, April 16th; from noon to as-sociation, said “Now is the time to buy 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, April 17th and as-sociation, said “Now is the time to buy 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, April 17th and as we see the trend of low interest rates, a April 18th; and the following weekend from as we see the trend of low interest rates, a April 18th; and the following weekend from strong local economy, and a tremendous 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, April 23rd; and strong local economy, and a tremendous 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, April 23rd; and selection of outstanding homes continue.” from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, selection of outstanding homes continue.” from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, This year’s Parade™ will feature homes in April 24th and April 25th. Admission is $10 This year’s Parade™ will feature homes in April 24th and April 25th. Admission is $10 Temple, Belton, Salado and Troy. A variety per adult and children under 12 are admit-Temple, Belton, Salado and Troy. A variety per adult and children under 12 are admitof both custom and spec homes that will be ted free. Tickets are available at each of the of both custom and spec homes that will be ted free. Tickets are available at each of the featured in this year’s Parade™ range in price Parade™ homes during open hours of the featured in this year’s Parade™ range in price Parade™ homes during open hours of the from $179,000 to more than $1,000,000. event. from $179,000 to more than $1,000,000. event. Participating builders go the extra mile Central National Bank is the Title Partner Participating builders go the extra mile Central National Bank is the Title Partner for the Parade™. Highlighting their own of this year’s Parade™. Additional Parade™ for the Parade™. Highlighting their own of this year’s Parade™. Additional Parade™ unique style in terms of layout, design and decorat-ing with some featured homes furnished for a true “I’m home” feel. Partners include Keene Roofing, KWTX, Martin Marietta, Omega Builders, Suncoast Post Tension, Temple Daily Telegram, Texas unique style in terms of layout, design and decorat-ing with some featured homes furnished for a true “I’m home” feel. Partners include Keene Roofing, KWTX, Martin Marietta, Omega Builders, Suncoast Post Tension, Temple Daily Telegram, Texas Outdoor living spaces, open floor plans, en- Bright Ideas and Tri Supply. Outdoor living spaces, open floor plans, en- Bright Ideas and Tri Supply. ergy efficiency and the newest custom items ergy efficiency and the newest custom items available make the Parade™ a “must attend” A special Parade of Homes™ magazine is pro-available make the Parade™ a “must attend” A special Parade of Homes™ magazine is proevent. Discover designs and trends for your duced by the Temple Daily Telegram each event. Discover designs and trends for your duced by the Temple Daily Telegram each future home or to share with family, friends, year. The magazine will be distributed in the future home or to share with family, friends, year. The magazine will be distributed in the and colleagues. You are welcome to tour the Friday, April 16th edition of the newspaper and colleagues. You are welcome to tour the Friday, April 16th edition of the newspaper homes and gather remodeling or decorating and will showcase each home in the Parade™. homes and gather remodeling or decorating and will showcase each home in the Parade™. ideas. TABA Builder and Associate members In addition to a photo, floorplan and other ideas. TABA Builder and Associate members In addition to a photo, floorplan and other can help you turn those ideas into reality. information, the magazine will also include a can help you turn those ideas into reality. information, the magazine will also include a “After last year’s Parade of Homes™ being map that will guide you to each of the homes “After last year’s Parade of Homes™ being map that will guide you to each of the homes cancelled due to COVID, we are excited that on tour.cancelled due to COVID, we are excited that on tour. we have bounced back strongly with great For more information, please visit www. we have bounced back strongly with great For more information, please visit www. participation and a great group of homes to tahb.org/parade or download and find us on participation and a great group of homes to tahb.org/parade or download and find us on tour. The Parade™ is a unique opportunity to experience some of the best homes Bell County has to offer with a wide range of participating local builders, each showcasing their unique style.”–Brandon Whatley, 2021 the FREE Parade Smart Application on your smartphone. Come experience the dream at the 2021 Temple Area Home Builders Parade of Homes™! tour. The Parade™ is a unique opportunity to experience some of the best homes Bell County has to offer with a wide range of participating local builders, each showcasing their unique style.”–Brandon Whatley, 2021 the FREE Parade Smart Application on your smartphone. Come experience the dream at the 2021 Temple Area Home Builders Parade of Homes™! Parade of Homes™ Co-Chair. Parade of Homes™ Co-Chair.
at the 2021 Temple Area Home Builders Parade of Homes™! at the 2021 Temple Area Home Builders Parade of Homes™!
A&G HOMES Turtle Creek - 508 Willow Drive, Troy
ALETHIUM STAR HOMES Highland Park Estates - 6514 Drexel Loop, Temple
BRANDON WHATLEY HOMES Long View Estates - 4440 Cedar Creek Road, Temple
BRANDON WHATLEY HOMES Terra Bella - 486 Via Lago, Belton
CAROTHERS EXECUTIVE HOMES
Turtle Creek - 400 Oak Drive, Troy
CAROTHERS EXECUTIVE HOMES
Lago Terra - 16 Lago Viento, Temple
CAROTHERS EXECUTIVE HOMES Dawson Ridge - 3004 Ingram Circle, Belton
CORY HERRING HOMES Callie Christina Estates - 12024 Callie Christina Court, Salado
EMPIRE CUSTOM HOMES 3553 Walter Lane, Belton
FLINTROCK BUILDERS
Bella Terra - 2608 Torino Reale Ave, Temple
KIELLA HOMEBUILDERS
The Hills of Westwood East - 1469 Rolling Brook Drive, Temple
QUARLES CONSTRUCTION 19102 Post Oak Road, Bartlett
RANDY TAYLOR CUSTOM BUILDERS Hidden Springs -1306 Crystal Springs Court, Salado
STYLECRAFT The Bend - 5202 Leaning Tree Drive, Temple
STYLECRAFT South Pointe - 1932 Delano Drive, Belton
From Farm to Table
Consumer supported agriculture model helps small farmers keep growing during pandemic
By FRED AFFLERBACH | Photos by SKEEBO and courtesy of TEXAS FARM FRESH
When the coronavirus pandemic crippled the Texas restaurant business last year, Sam Maggard was in a pickle. As the general manager of Tonkawa Farm in Salado, he had built a niche selling pasture raised chicken to Central Texas high-end restaurants. Stuck with a market that was shrinking fast, Maggard shifted gears and adopted a popular business strategy called Consumer Supported Agriculture. Customers could now go online and order not just his locally raised chicken, but fresh vegetables, beef, bison, fruit in season, herbs and teas, all delivered to their door once a week.
Using the CSA model, and under the business name and website Texas Farm Fresh, the delivery trucks roll deep into the heart of Texas. Starting from a shipping dock in Jarrell, drivers deliver across Bell County to Houston, San Antonio, Austin and Dallas, and many points in between. The fun begins when customers open an online account. Texas Farm Fresh offers a multitude of options — a vegetables only box, a protein box, a farm box. And if customers see something they don’t like, or want something they don’t see at first, they can customize their order. An assortment of tempting add-ons such as coffee and tea, eggs and dairy, bison, and Wagyu beef are available.
“We have numerous, family-run businesses with jams and jellies that are all done through a commercial kitchen,” Maggard said. “They all come to a centralized point that is us. That helps with a lot of the mom-and-pop places that have limited resources. They might do a farmers’ market but they’re not reaching the people like we are because we’re essentially covering most of the state.” Maggard is quick to point out that Community Supported Agriculture is not like shopping for groceries online from a major chain. Everything is locally grown, he says, from produce to dairy to his pasture-raised chicken. And there are about 1,400 products available.
“They’re getting organic produce. They’re getting things that they know where it’s coming
Sam Maggard is the general manager of Tonkawa Farm.
from,” Maggard said. “And the prices are fairly close to chain grocery stores.
I’ve got one customer who says she can get the same amount of produce for the money as at a chain store but would rather support local. Almost everything’s from Texas except certain items in Continued
Pasture-raised chickens, other meats and fresh produce are delivered to customers' doors by Texas Farm Fresh.
certain times of year.”
Over in College Station, Addison Cooper eagerly awaits his weekly delivery from Texas Farm Fresh. An IT engineer working from home, Cooper has lost 50 pounds in the last six months by working out and swearing off fast food. A self-professed foodie, he says Texas Farm Fresh makes cooking fun. And the dishes are delicious.
“Eating the junk from the grocery store does not even compare,” Cooper said. “You don’t realize how bland and boring it is until you have the good stuff.”
Cooper has signed on to a subscription (also called a share) and receives a weekly email depicting what’s in the next delivery. “If there’s certain things you don’t want, you can replace it with things you do want. I use that as a meal plan. Whatever’s in there, it’ll make me create some variety. That helps with my cooking skills and variety for the meals.”
Besides supporting local agriculture, Texas Farm Fresh supports a lighter carbon footprint by cutting back on waste. Leftover food is donated to a local food bank or zoo. And the delivery box is a reusable plastic bin with a long lifespan—up to 500 round trips before it’s recycled. And unlike at grocery stores where workers liberally bag produce and other items separately, creating more waste, the food is mostly placed loose in the box, using as little packaging as possible. But to prevent shipping damage, they place heavy items like potatoes on the bottom and fragile items like tomatoes on top.
Maggard says that the food Texas Farm Fresh delivers to a customer’s doorstep came out of the ground within the last week. “It’s about as fresh as you can get it, without having your own farm.”
For more on Tonkawa Farm and Texas Farm Fresh, go to txfarmfresh.com.
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