Exploring Your Mother’s or Grandmother’s Recipe Box this Holiday Season Do you have a cherished recipe box from your mother or grandmother that brings back fond memories. And have you recently delved into your mother’s or grandmother’s vintage recipe box? The holiday season is the perfect moment to dive into the cherished memories held in your grandmother’s or mother’s recipe box, uncovering heartfelt recipes that evoke warmth and connection to those special times with them. Using your...
9 days ago • 3 min read
These are genuine pumpkins, fresh from our vibrant harvest! I'm absolutely smitten with the stunning blue Jarrahdale pumpkins. Last year, our local zoo gifted me one after their October festivities, and I was inspired to grow my own. Of course, the white pumpkins are just as charming and hold their own special place in my heart! Just so you know, both the blue Jarrahdale and white pumpkins reveal a vibrant golden-orange interior when you cut them open. And we will use them for pumpkin puree...
16 days ago • 2 min read
Halloween is a joyful celebration where little girls can transform into princesses or superheroes, and little boys can become firefighters, police officers, or caped crusaders. Adults can embrace the magic of Halloween by stepping into new personas and characters, becoming someone else for the night. Halloween weaves a spellbinding tapestry of eerie thrills and enchanting whimsy, transforming one night into a magical realm of spooky delight. Every year, we delight in donning whimsical...
23 days ago • 3 min read
As October’s crisp air arrives, the "October Bucket List" begins a season of fun. Start by making a "boo basket" with treats to surprise a neighbor, then buy vibrant mums to brighten your porch. Thrift a whimsical costume like a witch’s hat or cape, and carve a grinning pumpkin for a festive glow. Knit a cute ghost or swap spooky books with friends for cozy reads. Paint candles for an eerie candlelit dinner, craft a ghost garland, and bake pies or cakes to fill the kitchen with warmth. Enjoy...
about 1 month ago • 3 min read
Our small Texas ranch offers us freedom, privacy, and a connection to nature. It provides us with a peaceful, simple lifestyle and is a legacy for us to pass down to our kids and grandkids. It's a place to enjoy activities like raising cows and chickens, gardening, and hunting. Also for us, it’s a proud way to embrace Texas’ deep-rooted ranching tradition with a smaller spread. Our ranch is indeed small per Texas standards, (only about 160 acres) but it's the perfect size for two retired...
about 1 month ago • 3 min read
Last week I skipped and danced and rejoiced over the amazing Fall temps in our part of Texas. But alas, I WAS WRONG. Oh Texas, you never fail to surprise me over and over. Yep it has been over 90°F all week and appears to continue to the end of the month. There are many jokes about the many seasons of Texas. But.... BUT THEY ARE TRUE! See! As per our Texas Storm Chasers!! So a little corrected menu plan is in store, not to mention, rescheduled outdoor projects. (Ok I guess that was mentioning...
about 2 months ago • 2 min read
FALL! I do believe Fall has fallen in our part of Texas. The other morning it was 59 degrees outside! Or as us Texans call it, Pot of Chili weather! (I can hear all our friends to the north snickering at us.) No, we haven't lite the fireplace yet. (but the thought crossed my mind) More snickering from the north? Ok not making Texas chili this morning but we did make a pot of Green Chile Pork Stew. in the slow cooker. Don't judge especially since it was 105 degrees a few days ago, this is...
about 2 months ago • 3 min read
In most of the United States, Labor Day is the last summer holiday. The last 3 day weekend for camping, boating, picnics etc. It's where BBQ grills and smokers are firing up in backyards across the country. Everyone is ready to enjoy the great outdoors before Summer fades into Fall. And that is true in Texas but it's also the start of Hunting Season!! Usually dove season starts around Labor Day and there are lines at sporting goods stores for hunting licenses. Hunters begin filling deer...
2 months ago • 4 min read
It's about Mid Summer here on the Ranch. We have had more rain this spring and early summer than normal so our tanks (aka Ponds) are full from the runoff. Everything is green and our pastures and garden are growing better than we expected. It's hot hot hot and we are living per southwest culture, work outside in the morning, take a siesta and then back outside when things cool off. And speaking of working outside. Don't tell our children but we are continuing to use the bucket in our tractor...
3 months ago • 3 min read
