Letter from the Editor

I’m not giving up, really I’m not. I’m just changing directions. I’m talking about my gardening and landscape choices. For years I happily chose vibrant and colorful high-maintenance flowering plants and shrubs and cared for them like they were beloved family members. Really, I did. Just looking at them made me happy. But after the ongoing extreme weather that now seems to be the norm, I’m done with that.

After the last several years of record breaking, scorching hot temps in the summer and single digit, below freezing temps in the winter I’m choosing plants with more thought. Yes, my new favorites have become my decades old Yaupon Hollies and English Boxwoods in my yard, and… my Knock Out Roses. They all have survived anything Mother Nature has thrown their way…. with flying colors!

I spoke with Texan Magazine’s gardening expert, Marc Hess about my new direction. He said, “You absolutely don’t have to compromise beauty and color during the drought and hot temps. You just need to make the right choices.” In his article in this issue, Marc tells us what to plant to beat the heat. And the choices are many and beautiful…. and no, it’s not cactus…lol.

Summer is synonymous with outdoor grilling. Matt Harvey shares easy grilling techniques and tips that will make you the envy of your neighborhood. Oh, did I mention this is our annual swimwear issue? These inspiring suits will make you want to head to the pool, lake or beach.

Also, imagine searching for your family for 70 years. Living Texas legend, author and historian, Marshall E. Kuykendall tells a true tale with a surprise ending. We also feature a fascinating story about traditional Chinese Medicine and much more!

Slow down, take a deep breath and let’s all ease into summer.

The heat is on!

Lisa Dante

Editor-In-Chief

TEXAN TRAVEL