Texas Farm & Home November Edition by Texas Farm & Home

NOVEMBER 2017

TEXAS FARM & HOME

NOVEMBER 2017

SHOP, EXPLORE & STAY IN GOLIAD

NOVEMBER 2017

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CONTENTS

November 2017

In Every Issue 8 Rural Ramblings

52 Garden Basics

10 History & Heritage

52 Recipes

11 Travel + Leisure

59 CafÃ©s Across Texas

42 Relics of Yesterday OUR COVER Fall foliage highlights the beauty of the Hearne House in Palestine. Photo by Dana Goolsby.

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Features

12 REMEMBERING VETERANS - A look at the contribution of three Texas veterans. 22 DESTINATION CHRISTMAS- Palestine does Christmas like no other town in Texas. 31 DINING GUIDE - Famous Texas restaurants offer up their favorite recipes for the holidays. 56 SPIRIT OF THE AMERICAN WEST - K.R. Wood honors the history of the famed Chisholm Trail

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EDITOR’S WELCOME

Christina Cutler Stewart

A Proud Momma

www.texasfarmandhome.com VOLUME 8 • NUMBER 2 MANAGING EDITORS Christina Cutler Stewart, cstewart@texasfarmandhome.com Wayne Stewart, wstewart@texasfarmandhome.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Linda Moffett, Jolene Renfro ADVERTISING SALES Department Linda Moffett, Promotions Manager lmoffett@texasfarmandhome.com 512-966-9426 Ansel Bradshaw, sales ab@texasfarmandhome.com 936-546-6707 DISTRIBUTION Randy Rollo, rrollo@texasfarmandhome.com

We tell a lot of stories about our kids and they never fail to supply us with a lot of things to talk about. One of these years when they get older and see all the things we put in print about them, well… they probably won’t forgive us. Still, they provide us with a lot of joy, sometimes, though, they inspire us. Every year Grapeland celebrates the annual Peanut Festival, our church, Grapeland Baptist Church, always makes fried pork rinds for the event. We generally fry up a lot the day before to give us a head start, then the next day we fry them at the festival as well. It’s a full day of work both days and our 9-year-old daughter Claire was there all day, both days. I admire the 9-year-old’s heart for the Lord. You see so many people make confessions, but to see a young girl working her heart out for her church and for her Lord that she gave her life to just a year and a half ago — it sure makes a Momma proud. Her favorite class in school is Bible class, and she does well at it. Recently she had to read Genesis 27; she read it quickly so Daddy quizzed her, and she was able to answer every question. Let’s hope Sam follows big sister’s lead, right now though he would rather just tear things up, I guess that’s the difference between a boy and a girl. Fall’s here finally, and it is quite welcome at the farm. Several years ago we grew a lot of sugar cane and would make syrup in the fall. The drought in 2011 spelled the end of our cane crop, the creek ran dry and so did everything else. A couple of kids along the way hampered our journey back into it, but we are working our way back to having a sustainable cane crop. We’ll let you know how it’s going in the future. The cooler weather makes us want to fire up the furnace and run the juice through the evaporator again. There’s nothing quite like the smell of burning pine and boiling cane juice. Those are some great memories. Until the next magazine I hope everybody has a happy Thanksgiving, we’ll be seeing you next month.

Scavenger Hunt Find 5 Turkeys and enter to win one of the prizes at right:

SUBSCRIPTIONS Lesia Rounsavall, lrounsavall@messenger-news.com 936-687-2424 or Texas Farm & Home, P.O. Box 130, Grapeland TX, 75844

Hidden in this edition of Texas Farm & Home are 5 turkeys similar to the one above — do not count the one above. Find the 5 turkeys and email us the page number and general location of where each turkey was found, plus your contact information. Email cstewart@texasfarmandhome.com or send a note to Texas Farm & Home, P.O. Box 130, Grapeland, TX 75844. Please send your entries by November 15. Last month’s leaf was located on pages 1, 20, 25, 38 and 65. Sorry for the one on the cover as I did not remember that it would be under the mailing label but everyone did a great job of figuring it out. The winners from October were Janie Roberts of Henderson: the year’s subscription, Patsy Strawther of Madisonville: The “As the Spur Turns” Cookbook and Vickey Sessions: The two free tickets to ride the Texas State Railroad.

A note from a Scavenger Hunt Player

EDITORIAL/SALES OFFICES: 202 South Main St., Grapeland, TX 75844. TEXAS FARM & HOME is published monthly by Nicol Publishing Company L.L.C., Copyright 2017. Subscription price: $24.95 a year (12 issues). Reproduction without permission of editorial or graphic content in any manner is prohibited.

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I looked high and low and every page did turn But only 4 little leaves did I find - My eyes begin to burn The 4 that I found were on pages *20, *25, *38 and *65 The 5th leaf will remain hidden, as I can no longer strive! ——— *20 - middle of page by 2nd place ribbon

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*25 -bottom of ‘Celebrate Jefferson’ ad *38 - near top of page ‘Sassafras Festival’ ad *65 - bottom middle of page near “Pecan Producers’ International statement ——— I got some very good news: I won my 4th Blue Ribbon at the Texas State Fair / Creative Arts / Doll Clothes !! ——— GAYLE BERGAMINI

Tickets to Ride

Reader Letters I was reading your story, Remembering Columbia, when I was struck by paragraphs that reminded me again of the awesome spirit, and grit of Texans. The beautiful words ‘we did it because we knew it had to be done’ struck a chord in my being. Texans again proved true as we came together to help those who were affected by Hurricane Harvey. After seeing so much negative in the today’s media, the media coverage of Texans helping all helped my weeping soul. When petty things flared up, the people stood up. Your story just showed how our strength still echoes when disaster strikes. I know the negative will return but gosh I love this state and your magazine.

2 Free Tickets to Ride the Texas State Railroad Donated by: Texas State Railroad 1-855-632-7729 www.TexasStateRailroad.net

Historic Redlands

Win a $150 night stay at Redlands Historic Inn in Palestine good from Jan-Dec 2018! Donated by: The Redlands 400 N. Queen St. Palestine, TX 800-550-5445or 903-729-2345 www.RedlandsHistoricInn.com

1 Year Free Subscription

Win a 1 Year Free Subscription to Texas Farm & Home.

NOVEMBER 2017

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NOVEMBER 2017

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H RURAL RAMBLINGS

Wayne Stewart

November a month of thanks When November rolls around the leaves around East Texas turn their brilliant hues of red and yellow.

Leaves strew the ground and rustle with the brisk fall breezes, that means November has finally arrived and brought with it the changing of the seasons. It seems a bit late for a lot of people, but we’ll take it when we can get it around here. Over the course of my life I’ve lived in East Texas, the Houston area and the Central Texas area near Austin and they all, for the most part, have about the same type of weather. I’ve also lived on the South Plains in Lubbock — and that’s a different breed of cat up there. In my second day of college at Texas Tech, I think it was Aug. 30; I awoke to a temperature of 38 degrees. Of course it was in the high 70s or low 80s later that day, but for this ol’ East Texas boy, it was quite a chill for August. That same year a large snow came in around my birthday in late October dropping a few inches on the ground. That was just the way it was up there. There’s an old saying about the Panhandle area of Texas. “The only thing between you and the north pole is a twostrand barbed wire fence and a skinny Canadian.” I don’t know about that, but after living out there it sounds about right. Here in the lower portions of Texas the winds and the chill does not cut quite so bad; fall and winter are often a welcome relief from another hot and humid summer. With that said, there are two holidays of note in November, and both have something to do with being thankful. Of course there’s Thanksgiving; a holiday built around the idea of offering God our thanks for seeing us through another year, for delivering us through days of trouble, for sending His Son to rescue us from our sins. We know that holiday, but the other holiday in which we offer our national gratitude is Veterans Day. Over the past 50 years or so there has been differing opinions on wars in which the nation has involved itself. On Nov. 11, Veterans Day, none of that matters. In Alfred, Lord Tennyson’s poem “The Charge of the Light Brigade,” written to memorialize the events in the Battle of Balaclava when Britain fought against Russia, noted the plight of the soldier when duty calls. “Theirs not to make reply, Theirs not to reason why, Theirs but to do and die, Into the valley of Death Rode the six hundred.”

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The men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces are owed every ounce of respect this nation can muster, for they are willing to lay their life on the line in order for the rest of us to eat our turkey and watch our football games on Thanksgiving. God calls many people for many different reasons, and the soldier whose heart guides them in paths of righteousness while they perform the duty of a soldier are truly raised up by God for a higher purpose. In the next to last verse of Tennyson’s poem he stated, “While horse and hero fell, They that had fought so well, Came thro’ the jaws of Death, Back from the mouth of Hell, All that was left of them, Left of six hundred.” May God be with those who have returned from the jaws of death, the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces. The world can seem to be in chaos, mass murders, storms, earthquakes, volunteers, but for those who have given their lives to Christ, truly given their lives to Him, then there is comfort in the Lord. Heed the words of Psalm 100: “Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth! Serve the Lord with gladness! Come into His presence with singing! Know that the Lord, He is God! It is He who made us, and we are His; We are His people, and the sheep of His pasture. Enter His gates with Thanksgiving, and His courts with praise! Give thanks to Him; bless His name! For the Lord is good; His steadfast love endures forever, And His faithfulness to all generations.” It is wonderful to be a sheep in the Lord’s pasture; be grateful that He has cared for us and delivered us from so much, and that He loves us enough to call up men and women willing to protect us — we serve a great and loving God.

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HISTORY + HERITAGE

Veteran’s Day

A tribute to Norman Mollard in the lobby of The Redlands, Palestine

A call to service

Texas boasts more veterans than any other state and also more Medal of Honor winners have called Texas home than any other state in America Story by WAYNE STEWART

n the pantheon of sacrifice Texas’ veterans stand tall. From the war for Texas independence to latest wars in which the United States finds itself embroiled, Texans always answer the nation’s call. From Sam Houston and his leading of a ragtag group of Texans against the army of Mexico in 1836 to Audie Murphy becoming the most decorated soldier of World War II, Texans, time and again, have shown their mettle when it comes to doing their duty. Texas boasts more veterans than any other state in the Union. Also, more Medal of Honor winners have called Texas home than any other state in America. Every veteran who has donned the uniform and put their life on the line is worthy of recognition. Jesus, speaking to His disciples the night before he went to the cross told them, “Greater love hath no

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man that this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” Following are three veterans from Texas’ wars, one being from the Texas Revolution and the other two from World War II. All three men were common individuals called to do uncommon service for their country, with one serving a country, and a state that defiled his sacrifice upon his death. All wars provide lessons to be learned, but one thing we should all endeavor to do, is to never forget the brave men and women who gave up themselves for others. • Joel Walter Robison was born in Georgia somewhere near 1812. He, along with his family moved to Texas in 1831 in the search for land and freedom so longed for by the people of that time. What sets Robison apart from many of Texas’ early veterans, he fought in almost every Texian

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HISTORY + HERITAGE

Veteran’s Day

Joel Walter Robison engagement during Texas war for independence, save for the battle of the Alamo and Goliad. In 1832, less than a year after arriving in Texas, Robison, along with his father, John G. Robison, fought in the Battle of Velasco near their home in Brazoria County, it was the first pitched battle in the sporadic clashes between settlers from America and the Mexican Army. When Texas finally began its push for independence in earnest, Robison would be a part of that fight, and in the process he fought at siege of Bexar, where the Alamo was originally captured; the Grass Fight south of San Antonio; the Battle of Concepcion at Mission Concepcion in San Antonio being led by James Bowie and James Fannin. At the Battle of San Jacinto he served under Capt. William Jones Heard and under Col. Edward Burleson. During the battle, Robison was with the group that captured Santa Anna, legend has it Santa Anna rode double with Robison back to the Texian camp. After the Revolution, Robison served as a first lieutenant in the Texas Ranger Division. Robison also served as commissioner of the Fayette County Land Office; in 1860 he was elected to the Texas House of Representatives. He died in 1889 and was buried at his home in Warrenton, next to his wife. In 1932, Mr. Robison, along with his wife Emily Almeida Alexander, were re-interred at the Texas State Cemetery in Austin, receiving a hero’s honor for his service to Texas. • Norman Mollard earned the distinction of becoming a flying ace in the Navy during World War II. Mr. Mollard grew up in the city of Palestine, on Fowler Street to be exact.

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He was born in 1923, and when he finished at Palestine High School, he was off to the Navy, joining on Sept. 3, 1942 where he entered the Navy pilot training program, earning the rank of ensign, and by the end of 1943 he was headed for duty. He was assigned to the VF-45 fighter squadron aboard the U.S.S. San Jacinto in Nov. 1944. Mr. Mollard flew the F6F Hellcat. He flew distinguishably during the Battle of Okinawa. During his time in combat Mr. Mollard shot down six Japanese planes; he also was shot down three times. His actions earned him the Navy Cross, the Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal with Seven Stars, Presidential Unit Citation with Three Stars among many other awards. He continued his Naval career after World War II, serving as an astronaut candidate for NASA’s Mercury Program. While he did not make the final cut, Mr. Mollard considered many of the men in the program personal friends. In 2003 he was inducted into the Commemorative Air Force’s Airman Hall of Fame. After leaving the service Mr. Mollard worked in real estate and construction in the Houston area. He returned to Palestine in 1976 and helped to save and restore such historic buildings as the old Reagan High School and Redlands Hotel. Mr. Mollard died in 2007. • Felix Z. Longoria was killed in the Philippines in 1945. Pvt. Longoria was with the 27th Infantry Regiment of the 25th Infantry Division. He was killed on the Island of Luzon when the platoon he was with was ambushed by a Japanese machine gunner who had been in hiding. Due to the extent of the machine gun fire, his body was badly maimed and his body was not identified until 1949. Pvt. Longoria was born in Three Rivers in 1920. He eventually moved to Corpus Christi with his wife, where he worked as a truck driver, before he enlisted in the Army in 1944. The couple had a daughter while in Corpus Christi. Even after his death, though, his personal war was far from over. Once his remains were identified his widow sought to make arrangements with the local funeral home in their hometown of Three Rivers. The funeral home director refused to allow a wake at the funeral home due to him being a Mexican, this was the nadir of segregation during that time. He was to be buried at the Longoria Cemetery, an area purchases by Pvt. Longoria’s father in 1925, which was alongside the white cemetery in Three Rivers. Hearing of the conflict Lyndon Johnson, then serving as Texas’ U.S. Senator, offered to have Pvt. Longoria’s remains buried in the Arlington National Cemetery. Even famous radio personality Walter Winchell commented on the despicable actions taken by Three Rivers. Eventually Pvt. Longoria was buried in Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors befitting one who sacrificed his life for his country. Several museums across Texas tell the story of Texas veterans. • H.E.A.R.T.S Veterans Museum in Huntsville tells the story of the veterans of Walker County and of East Texas. From the time of Texas Independence to the current wars in the Middle East. • Commemorative Air Force Airpower Museum has several special museums located throughout Texas and other states, visit their website at commemorativeairforce.org. • National Museum of the Pacific/Nimitz Museum in Fred-

Felix Z. Longoria ericksburg tells the story of Chester Nimitz and his role as Commander in Chief of the Pacific Fleet during World War II. The museum also brings to life the war in the Pacific as the United States fought the Empire of Japan. Walk through displays that recall the sacrifice the men and women made, view authentic World War II equipment that cannot be seen anywhere else. It is one of the top World War II museums in the world. • National WASP WWII Museum is located at Avenger Field in Sweetwater. The Women’s Auxiliary Ferrying Squadron and Women’s Flying Training Detachment, which became WASP, flew the aircrafts the Army used during World War II, flight-testing them as well, delivering the aircraft oversees to the pilots who would fly them into battle. They were not officially considered part of the U.S. Military until 1977. • Battleship Texas State Historic Site shows visitors what life on a U.S. battleship was like. The ship is located near the San Jacinto Monument in La Porte. • Texas Military Forces Museum features 45,000 square feet of exhibits and other items utilized by the state’s fighting men and women. It tells the story of Texans in every war since the Texas Revolution. ——— For a full list of Texas museums dedicated to veterans and the war effort, visit the Texas Historical Commission website at http://www.thc.texas.gov/preserve/projects-and-programs/military-history/military-museums.

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TRAVEL + LEISURE

Traveling Highway 19

A HIGHWAY 19 CHRISTMAS

Travel along this state roadway for some holiday fun Story by WAYNE STEWART

exas Highway 19 forms the western border of East Texas stretching from Huntsville in the south to Paris in the far reaches of North Texas. It passes through towering forests of pine trees, rolling hills, historic Texas towns, beautiful lakes and eventually up to the prairies of Northeast Texas. It’s a drive worth making, but when visitors take in the towns along the way, it becomes even more of a special trip. Along the way this state highway passes from Huntsville through Trinity, Crockett, Grapeland, Palestine, Athens, Canton, Emory, Sulphur Springs and then Paris with each of those communities holding a special Christmas event from early November through the Christmas holidays, so take a

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special journey on Texas Highway 19 and experience a real East Texas Christmas. Every city has some special events, so travel with us, from south to north as we explore the Christmas season on this 225mile journey in this season of hope. Christmas brings hope. It brought hope more than 2,000 years ago when Jesus was born in a manger in Bethlehem, get out and experience that hope. The following is a list of cities along Texas Highway 19 beginning from south to north. • HUNTSVILLE — Huntsville offers visitors a variety of Christmas activities throughout the Christmas season. The first weekend in December turns Huntsville into a Christmas wonderland with Huntsville for the Holidays and the Down-

town Christmas Fair. The Downtown Christmas Fair features dozens of vendors, snow making, pictures with Santa Claus, train rides and much more. The Downtown Christmas Fair is set for Saturday, Dec. 2. On that same day, head a few blocks south of downtown Huntsville to the Sam Houston Memorial Museum from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the museum grounds at the old Sam Houston homestead. The day is filled with historical demonstrations, refreshments, crafts, Santa Claus, a holiday market with original handmade gifts by local artisans, all centered around the old Woodland Home, Bear Bend Cabin, the Steamboat House and other things on the grounds of the Sam Houston Memorial Museum. â&#x20AC;˘ CROCKETT â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Stop by downtown Crockett on the Saturday before Thanksgiving for the annual Christmas

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TRAVEL + LEISURE celebration known as Christmas in Crockett. More than 200 vendors line the streets of Crockett around the Houston County Courthouse. This year marks the 35th installment of this annual event. Use the opportunity to do some Christmas shopping; eat some festival food and enjoy a small-town festival, full of East Texas charm. • PALESTINE — This East Texas town is one of the greatest destination towns in Texas, with its historic downtown and railroad heritage. Palestine also is home to the Texas State Railroad and Christmas means it’s Polar Express Time at TSRR. The city also goes all in for Christmas with Frost Fest and other fun activities held the first weekend in December. • ATHENS — Light up the holidays with a trip to Athens with a visit to The Christmas Park — Land of Lights. The park opens Nov. 10 and is open every day through January 3. The park’s driving trail runs for more than a mile and features more than 4 million lights with 50 different musical scenes and 50 mo-

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tion controlled lighted scenes along with seven tunnels, 14 arches and 1,500 wood cutouts. The Land of Lights is located at Loop 7 and Patterson Road. On Saturday, Dec. 2, Christmas becomes an all-day event in Athens as the Keep Athens Beautiful organization brings visitors Holiday on the Square in downtown Athens around the Henderson County Courthouse. This special event runs from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will feature lunch with Santa and other activities for children. At 6:30 p.m. a Christmas parade winds through downtown bringing in the Christmas spirit into Athens. It’s a full day of fun for this East Texas city. • CANTON — When most people think of Canton they imagine the massive First Monday Trade Days, held the weekend of the first Monday of every month. The Festival of Trees: Home for the Holidays. This special event, celebrating the Christmas tree, features elaborately decorated Christmas Trees located in the Plaza Museum, which also serves at the Canton Chamber of

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Commerce in downtown Canton. The Festival of Trees begins Friday, Nov. 17 opening to the public from 4-7 p.m. The night includes the trees, of course, the museum in full décor and the resounding Christmas carols throughout the halls of the museum. Following this event, walk a block south to the Van Zandt County Courthouse and view the Main Street Tree Lighting. The trees in the museum will be auctioned off, but will remain in the museum until the Festival of Trees ends on Dec. 14 with the city’s annual Lighted Christmas Parade. The Lighted Christmas Parade begins at the Canton Junior High and winds its way to the courthouse. The parade begins at 6:30 p.m. After the parade, stick around town for the outdoor showing of the family Christmas comedy, “Home Alone.” Not to be missed in Canton, Yesterland Farm. The farm was damaged by the tornadoes that ripped through Canton in the spring, but it has come back and offers a lot of Christmas fun. Christmas at Yesterland Farm runs from Nov. 24 through Dec. 17, on Saturdays and

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Sundays. The activities include picking a Christmas tree from the Yesterland Christmas Tree Farm, take some photos with Santa Claus; take the kids to the Christmas Playland with some nostalgic mechanical rides, the Runaway Sleigh roller coaster, a giant slide, rock wall and more. To learn more about all the happenings at Yesterland Farm, visit their website at www.yesterlandfarm. com • EMORY — While traveling up Texas Highway 19, take a drive around Emory as the downtown is decked out with wreaths for the Christmas Wreath Project. The Rains County Courthouse is filled with wreaths, with three large wreaths representing the three cities of the county, Emory, Point and East Tawakoni. The north side of the courthouse is dedicated to veterans. Also, take some time for Christmas Around

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Traveling Highway 19

the Square, held the first Saturday of November. The day is filled with a Christmas parade full of floats, then a festival full of vendors, activities, visits with Santa Claus and much more. Go to www.emorytx.com for more information. • SULPHUR SPRINGS — Head north to Hopkins County and its county seat, Sulphur Springs for a bag full of fun, from live theater productions to festivals and other family fun. Christmas Downtown and Christmas Parade includes plenty of local shopping, a parade, slides, fun Christmas activities, the lighting of the community Christmas Tree in Celebration Plaza. For two weekends, Saturday Nov. 25 and Saturday Dec. 2, enjoy Christmas in Heritage Park. Christmas in the Park begins at 5:30 p.m. each evening. Visitors can enjoy a spectacle of lights, strolling carolers, musicians, a living Nativity scene

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and even Santa Claus. The historic buildings in the park will be open with volunteers dressed in period clothing to help visitors take a trip back in time. While there stop by the blacksmith shop, the general store, a one-room log house with warm treats being served, take a look at the tree at the Atkins House and hear some old time Christmas music. Santa will be at the Smith-Greg House where they can also get a cup of hot chocolate. Also, don’t miss the old railroad building. Then, on Dec. 7 and 8, see the Main Street Theatre, Community Players, present the hilarious, “A Good Old Fashioned Redneck Country Christmas.” Go to www.mstsulphursprings.com to learn more about the production. • PARIS — Head to historic downtown Paris for the Downtown Open House and Christmas Tree Lighting

Festivities held Saturday, Nov. 11. Christmas really gets going the following week on Saturday, Nov. 18 with Christmas in Paris. This event features a traditional Christmas bazaar, hosted by Boy Scout Troop 2 and the Calvary United Methodist Church. The event is held at the Love Civic Center, located at 2025 South Collegiate Dr. in Paris. The event lasts from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. On Nov. 30, don’t miss the Air Force Band of the West Christmas Concert. On Friday, Dec. 1 beginning at 4 p.m., don’t miss Christmas in Fair Park, held at the Paris/Lamar County Fairgrounds, which continues the following day. A Christmas parade with the “Deep in the Heart of Christmas,” theme will take place Saturday. For more on all the happenings around Paris, visit their website at www.paristexas.com.

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TRAVEL + LEISURE

Palestine

Destination Christmas From fall foliage tours to holiday train rides, Palestine offers a full season of events

Story by WAYNE STEWART Photography courtesy of Palestine Visitor Center, Palestine Chamber of Commerce & Texas State Railroad

alestine, long considered one of the top destination towns in Texas, takes Christmas to new heights every year. From the Polar Express train ride on the historic Texas State Railroad, to special events and occasions in downtown Palestine, there’s holiday fun on every corner. “We try to present a Christmas that represents us and what we are,” said Palestine Tourism Director Mary Rahm. “Christmas here is jampacked full of activities for young

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Palestine

and old.” Christmas for Palestine really begins in November, but there’s more than just Christmas happening, November is the height for fall colors for the area. Palestine is located at the edge of the East Texas piney woods and the Texas Prairies and Lakes region where beautiful hardwoods collide with the pines, creating a beautiful display of colors on nature’s palette. The Palestine Visitors Bureau offers several maps of driving trails taking people through the county in order to give them the best view of the fall colors. “There are 34 routes out of Palestine,” Mary noted. “We also have Davey Dogwood Park, which is just gorgeous when the dogwood change in what seems like just a minute from green to a brilliant red — they’re beautiful.” Palestine also has several walking trails through the Community Forest around Upper and Lower Lake, located on U.S. 287/Texas Highway 19, a couple miles north of downtown Palestine. The Community Forest covers 700 acres and provides great outdoor opportunities for visitors. Go to the Palestine Visitor Center website at www.VisitPalestine.com or the Athens Department of Tourism website at www.AthensTX.org for information on the driving trails. The driving trails are just the beginning, though, a primer to get visitors in the mood for the Christmas holidays quickly approaching. Polar Express, held at the Texas State Railroad, drew 66,000 riders to the Palestine area last year; and rides to the North Pole will begin this year on Nov. 11. Riders are urged to show up for the Polar Express and relive the classic book “The Polar Express” by Christ Van Allsburg. Riders can travel in their pajamas, visit with The Conductor and create special Christmas memories with the entire family. The train ride takes travelers to the North Pole and meet with Santa and his elves as they greet the passengers and board the train. There Santa gives each child the first gift of Christmas, a silver sleigh bell. On

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Palestine and its plethora of historic homes are a mainstay of the city’s annual Tour of Homes, held during Frost Fest in December.

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Palestine

the way back to the depot from the North Pole guests are led in singing Christmas Carols. Reservations for The Polar Express are required as seats are limited and fill up fast. The Polar Express runs through Dec. 27. Contact the Texas State Railroad at (855) 632-7729, or go to their website at texasstaterailroad.net. There’s more, though than just the Polar Express, as downtown Palestine gets in on the Christmas spirit. Christmas takes place in downtown Palestine and “The Hollow,” located between downtown Palestine and the Anderson County Courthouse. Located in The Hollow is the Wells Creek Crossing, a new antique store; Pint & Barrel, a restaurant specializing in craft beer and authentic pub food. Across the street from there is the Ox Bow Bakery, recognized as one of the best pie shops in all of Texas. While they offer several different kinds of desserts, pies are their specialty, from buttermilk to coconut meringue, every pie is a delicious work of art. Several events take place in The Hollow, be sure to check with the Palestine Visitors Center to keep abreast of all the happenings. There is no shortage of events happening in downtown Palestine. “In one of our downtown buildings we will have Santa’s workshop,” noted Ms. Rahm. “We also have the Grinch’s Lair, which the kids love.” With all the people coming into Palestine for the Polar Express and other activities, such as the annual Tour of Homes, held in some of Palestine stately historic homes, and of course a tour through many of the historic buildings and the beautiful Sacred Heart Catholic Church with its beautiful stained glass windows and beautiful architecture. For those visiting, the city has set up a shuttle service from area hotels that will travel through the downtown area and out to the Texas State Railroad where passengers can board The Polar Express. “Our downtown merchants welcome people who are dressed up for The Polar Express,” Ms. Rahm said. “We want them to be comfortable wherever they go. Everybody should

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SHOP, EXPLORE & STAY IN PALESTINE

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TRAVEL + LEISURE

feel comfortable when they come to Palestine, no matter what they’re wearing.” Frost Fest takes in Palestine on Dec. 1-2. Frost Fest takes people through the historic streets of downtown Palestine where they can take part in the Wassail Stroll, go on the Historic Homes Tour, and stick around for the Christmas Parade of Lights, then a short holiday film on the Anderson County Courthouse lawn. Events taking place during Frost Fest include the “Historic Taste & Talk Walk,” which features some great food served by downtown businesses while learning some facts about history. It is a guided tour led by the Palestine Historic Preservation Officer. The tour starts at 3 p.m. and takes place on Friday, Dec. 1. Tickets must be purchased by Monday, Nov. 27. On Saturday, Dec. 2, take the kids to the Snow Play Square and let them have some winter fun in Texas; the “Hearth & Tinsel” Holiday Tour of Historic Homes; Storytime with Santa at the historic Texas Theatre, toy train rides through downtown Palestine, a beer garden and so much more. For more on all the things happening around Palestine, go to the Visitors Center website at www. VisitPalestine.com.

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Cooking up a cure for cancer Giving hope to victims of cancer and cystic fibrosis was the goal behind a cookbook developed by Jaqueline Skeens Cavender after watching her mother, Jeanette Skeens, fight cancer and eventually lose the battle just before her wedding day. She decided 20 years ago, to do something to help fight cancer. In the ensuing years she also saw close family friends coping with cystic fibrosis. Cystic fibrosis, a disease affecting the lungs, is a disease that does not receive government funding for research as does cancer; but CF’s results on the lives it affects are just as devastating. What came out of all this tragedy is a cookbook, “As the Spur Stirs.” All proceeds from this book goes to benefit the American Cancer Society and research into a cure for cystic fibrosis. Diseases like cancer and CF are equal opportunity in every way, and that is what spurred Cavender, a member of the Cavender family that founded Cavender’s Western Outfitters, to do something to

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help in the fight of these deadly diseases. “As I sat in the hospital with my Mom when she had cancer, I would look at the people is affected, and they were from all walks of life,” Mrs. Cavender recalled. “It not only affected their life, but the lives of their caregivers – you just don’t realize what goes on with people day to day. “I lost my Mom to cancer the week my husband and I got married,” Mrs. Cavender continued. “I asked myself then what can I do in her name to help other people.” The idea of a cookbook percolated in her mind, she wanted to stir up a cure for cancer. What came out of her thoughts was a beautifully bound cookbook, full of some of her family’s favorite recipes, and recipes of celebrity contributors. Phone calls were made and recipes were gathered as contributors offered up their own tried and true recipes. Some of the contributors to “As the Spur Stirs” include George Strait, Nolan Ryan, Trace Adkins, Laura Bush, Amy Grant, Roger Staubach, Celine Dion, Marissa Wayne (in honor of

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her father-in-law John Wayne, and more. “As the Spur Stirs” is available at Cavender’s stores, or online at www.cavenders.com; it also is available at Barnes & Noble’s Texas locations. It also can be purchased from Texas Farm & Home by calling (936)687-2424.

TEXAS DINING FROM THE STATEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MOST TRUSTED CHEFS

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1401 E. Milam H Mexia, TX H 254-472-0512 farm-house-restaurant.com H Like us on facebook

11 am- 9 pm Mon-Sat, 11 am- 3 pm Sunday

Farm House is the premier family steak and seafood restaurant in Mexia. They specialize in food prepared from scratch! The menu features catfish, oysters, seafood, steaks, jalapeño pork chops, famous fried pickles and homemade double chocolate cake and more with something for everyone at a competitive price. Banquet and Party Rooms and Catering available. Dine in or call in your orders.

One Bite and You’re Hooked!

211 PR 2422 H Karnack, TX H 903-679-9000

Wed/Thurs 5 pm-9 pm, Friday 5 pm -10 pm, Sat 11 am-10 pm, Sun noon-7 pm

RiverBend serves up some of the best food in Texas. RiverBend’s specialty is golden fried catfish served with jalapeño hushpuppies, however other menu options include steaks, frog legs, crab cakes, shrimp and alligator. In addition, they feature southern favorites, fried green tomatoes, blackened catfish with Creole crawfish sauce, and baked sweet potatoes.

Restaurant on Caddo Lake

RiverBend

100 US Hwy 75 S H Henderson, TX H 903-392-2257

208 S. Commerce St. H Lockhart, TX H 512-398-9344

Farm House

Open 24 Hours

Denny’s is America’s diner. For over 60 years guests have enjoyed relaxing to a hearty meal 24/7, every day of the year. Whether you are in the mood for breakfast, lunch or dinner Denny’s offers a wide variety of dishes to satisfy any craving. Try a “flavor of the season” such as the Turkey & Dressing Dinner, the Pumpkin Cream Pancake Breakfast or build your own Holiday Slam. AARP Discount : 15% off entire check

Denny’s of Henderson

Mon-Fri 7-6 pm, Sat 7-6:30 pm, Sun 9-6:30 pm

Authentic Texas barbecue is what you will find at Smitty’s Market, Inc. in Lockhart. Order barbecue, hot sausage or fresh choice meats at Smitty’s. Nina Schmidt Sells established Smitty’s Market in 1999 in the building that housed her father’s Kreuz Market for more than 50 years. The market sits in the same location where barbecue has been sold in Lockhart since the turn of the last century. Smitty’s was voted “Best” Ribs, Brisket, Sausage, Barbecue and Meat Market of Caldwell County.

Smitty’s Market, Inc.

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Pumpkin Layer: 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree 1 (12 ounce) can evaporated milk

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon salt 1 3/4 cup whipped margarine 1 cup water 5 tablespoons cocoa

Icing: 1 cup whipped margarine 4 Tablespoons milk 1 teaspoon vanilla 3 1/2 cups powder sugar 5 Tablespoons cocoa 1 cup pecans

RECIPE PROVIDED BY FARMHOUSE (MEXIA) - 254-472-0512

Equipment needed: mixing bowl, 18 1/2 x 13 cake pan (grease and flour), wire whip or hand mixer, spatula Cake: Mix eggs and sour cream in a bowl by hand. Then add the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt to the same bowl. Then melt 1 3/4 cup butter, add 5-tablespoons cocoa and 1 cup water, bring to a slight boil. Pour into flour mixture and mix, with a hand mixer, until mix has a smooth texture. Icing: Mix butter, 5 tablespoons cocoa, 4 tablespoons milk, 1 teaspoon vanilla, and 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar. Melt over medium heat and mix until smooth then add 1 cup pecans. Cooking: Grease and flour pan and pour in cake mix. Bake at 375 degrees for 43 minutes. Check at 35 minutes, may cook to 50 minutes. Check by inserting a toothpick, if toothpick is clean, then cake is ready. Holding: Allow cake to cool, cut into 20 pieces, and cut pieces into a 12 ounce bowl. Cover the bowl and refrigerate. Discard all cake that is not sold within four days after being made. Serving: Reheat in the microwave, for approximately 30 seconds.

Cake: 4 cups flour 4 cups granulated sugar 4 eggs 1 cup sour cream 3 teaspoons soda

Chocolate Cake

RECIPE PROVIDED BY SMITTY’S MARKET, INC. (LOCKHART) - 512-398-9344

Topping: 1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter 3/4 cup dark brown sugar 1/2 cup heavy cream 1/4 tsp salt 1 to 2 cup pecans Cook 3 minutes and top cheesecake!

3/4 cup white sugar 2 eggs 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Stir flour, butter, and 1/4 cup sugar together in a bowl until dough is well-blended. Pat dough into the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven until crust is lightly golden, 10 to 15 minutes. Cool. Reduce oven temperature to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Beat cream cheese, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 egg, and vanilla together in a bowl with an electric mixer until smooth. Whisk pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, 3/4 cup sugar, 2 eggs, cinnamon, salt, ginger, and cloves together in a bowl. Spread cream cheese mixture evenly over cooled crust. Pour pumpkin mixture over cream cheese mixture. Bake in the preheated oven until bars are set, about 60 minutes. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate overnight. Enjoy!

Crust: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 cup salted butter, softened 1/4 cup white sugar Cheesecake Layer: 8 ounces cream cheese 1 egg

Pumpkin Pie Cheese Cake Bars 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored and finely chopped 2 tbsp. brown sugar

2 tbsp. granulated sugar 1 tsp. ground cinnamon 1/2 cups powdered sugar 2-3 tbsp. milk

1/4 cup oil 3/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon soda 4 cups flour

Laurice Dodd

RECIPE PROVIDED BY RIVERBEND (KARNACK) - 903-679-9000

And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life; he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst. John 6:35

Warm buttermilk and pour into large bowl. Add oil and yeast then dry ingredients that have sifted together. Beat well. Turn out onto floured bread board. Knead the way you would biscuits. Roll out and cut with biscuit cutter. Place sides barely touching into buttered pans. Brush with melted butter. Let rise about 1 hour. Bake at 400 degrees 10 to 15 minutes.

1 cup buttermilk 1 package yeast dissolved in 1/2 cup warm water 1 teaspoon baking powder

Yeast Buttermilk Rolls

RECIPE PROVIDED BY DENNY’S (HENDERSON) - 903-392-2257

Preheat oven to 375 degrees Grease a 9x5” loaf pan with cooking spray or butter. On a cutting board, separate biscuits and cut each biscuit into quarters. Roll each piece into a ball. Dunk each ball in the melted butter then toss in cinnamon-sugar until evenly coated. Lay about half of the biscuit balls in an even layer, touching on both sides, in the bottom of the loaf pan. Toss apples with brown sugar, granulated sugar and cinnamon. Scatter a very thin layer of apples on top of the biscuit balls. (You want the second layer of biscuits to touch the base layer.) Lay the second and final layer of biscuit balls over the apples, and top with remaining apples. Bake for 35-45 minutes, until the biscuits are a deep golden and the apple mixture is bubbling. Let cool for about 15 minutes. Meanwhile, make glaze. Whisk together powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Run a knife around the edges of the pan, and transfer the monkey bread onto a serving platter. Drizzle glaze on top of the loaf. Serve warm.

1 (12-oz.) can refrigerated buttermilk biscuits 6 tbsp. butter, melted 2 cups cinnamon sugar

Apple Fritter Monkey Bread

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TRAVEL + LEISURE

Christmas Events

LOST PINES CHRISTMAS Celebrate the season in a variety of ways in historic Bastrop Story by WAYNE STEWART

xperience Christmas along the banks of the Colorado River with Bastrop’s annual Lost Pines Christmas, set to run from Nov. 23 through Dec. 25. Downtown Bastrop, one of Texas’ true historic cities, reminds visitors of an old-fashioned Main Street Christmas, from scads of restaurants, boutiques and fun shops, it’s sure to get visitors in the mood for Christmas. Throughout this month of Christmas celebration, Bastrop plans loads of fun for the entire family. Events around Bastrop include the Lighted Christmas Parade; Fun with Santa Claus; River of Lights; Shopping; Caroling, Music and Live Entertainment and much more. One of the greatest spectacles about the Lost Pines Christmas is the River of Lights. Located along the banks of the Colorado

River, it features more than 100 displays of lights along the river. The displays are located along the walk from Fisherman’s Park to Ferry Park from 6-9 p.m. from Black Friday through New Year’s Eve. Downtown merchants offer extended hours throughout the shopping season from the Friday after Thanksgiving through Christmas. On several days throughout the Lost Pines Christmas special events are planned. On Saturday, Nov. 25 enjoy the Lost Pines Wassail Fest, browse through the many shops of downtown Bastrop while enjoying the warming aromatic flavor of hot mulled cider, being served throughout the town. Try them all and then vote for your favorite Wassail for the People’s Choice Award. The event runs

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from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Be sure the kids are in Bastrop on Sunday, Nov. 26 for Breakfast with Santa at the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort. Enjoy a delicious breakfast with Mr. and Mrs. Claus in this event that’s open to guests and the public. The cost is $32 for adults and $16 for children 6-12 and free for children under 5. Reservations for this special morning are required as Santa is very busy this time year, to make reservations call (512)308-4950. On Friday, Dec. 1, two Bastrop traditions combine, the First Friday Art Walk and Lost Pines Christmas meet for live music, art, dining, shopping and plenty of fun. The art features sculptures, paintings, photography and more. Experience this event from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Snow Day is perhaps the kids favorite part of this month-long extravaganza. Snow Day is held at Fisherman’s Park on the banks of the Colorado River, just below downtown Bastrop. The kids can slide down a snow hill, make s’mores and watch a holiday movie by the river. It all happens on Dec. 2 and runs from 1-7 p.m., with the holiday movie, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” beginning at 7:30 p.m. Head to the Farm Street Opry on Thursday, Dec. 7 for “A Country Christmas featuring Tony Booth and Sean Orr.” Tickets for the show are $7.50 with kids under 10 getting in free. The show begins at 7 p.m. with barbecue provided by Southside Barbecue served before it begins. The fun keeps going Dec. 8-9 with the

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Christmas Events

first annual Bastrop Clay Arts “Merry Market” organized by clay artists Marie Blazek, Susan Hanft and Melanie Shaw. The two-day show features handmade arts by local Texas artists located at the Espavo Studio at 924 Main Street. The show runs from 4 to 9 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday. Saturday Dec. 9 is a day full of fun for the city as that also is when Bastrop holds its annual Tour of Homes. For more on this go to the website BastropHolidayHomesTour.com. Saturday’s also the day of the annual

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Lost Pines Lighted Christmas Parade. This holiday spectacle features more than 100 floats and participating rolling up Main Street representing the climax of Christmas activities in Bastrop. The parade begins at 6 p.m. On Saturday Dec. 16 don’t miss Bastrop’s annual Christmas Sip, Shop & Swirl, the city’s premier wine-tasting event among the many unique boutiques around downtown Bastrop. The event runs from 6 to 9 p.m. Tickets are available at Eventbrite.com. A couple days before Christmas satisfy the sweet tooth with Bastrop’s first annual Lost Pine’s Christmas Cookie Crawl. Walk up and down the city streets as merchants offer cookies and pictures with Santa Claus. This event is free and is family friendly. It runs from 1 to 4 p.m. The Lost Pines Christmas ends with a Christmas meal at the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa. The meal includes soups, salads, traditional dishes, salmon, oysters on the half shell and a wide variety of sweet treats. The meal is held Christmas Day from noon to 4 p.m. Tickets are $65 for adults, $32 for kids age 6-12 and free for children 5 and under. For reservations call (512)308-4950. For more on the Lost Pines Christmas, visit their website at lostpineschristmas. com

A SMALL TOWN CHRISTMAS See why Bellville was designated one of the top holiday towns in Texas Story by TAMMY BOND

ho doesn’t smile at the thought of getting to throw a snowball at your unsuspecting sibling or your sweetheart when they’re not looking? Well, in the friendly little Central Texas town of Bellville that chance comes around each year, as plenty of snow gets brought in from the North Pole for one night only! That’s the night the town kicks off the 35th Annual Small Town Christmas where snowballs fly, lights twinkle, music plays, rides are ridden, great food and baked goodies are enjoyed and so much more. It all starts Friday evening, December 1st and resumes Saturday morning with more sights and sounds of

Christmas continuing throughout the day. The Texas Legislature, in 2013, designated the annual event as “The Official Small Town Christmas Event of Texas” and each year the festivities of this FREE event grow more and more fun for folks looking to make new memories in a good old-fashioned small town holiday setting. Friday night begins on the Historic Downtown Bellville Square where the night sky will shine by the twinkling lights of an evening parade. Carolers will sing as onlookers await the lighting of the town Christmas tree by none other than ol Kris Kringle himself!

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From there the event continues in the nearby Chesley Park & Bishop Pavilion where the reason for the season is celebrated with a Live Nativity to include a donkey and even a LIVE camel to ride! There will also be Horse-drawn Carriage

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Christmas Events

Rides around town and a Polar Express Train Ride. The parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gazebo is the picture-perfect setting to stop for a family photo opp with Santa. Enjoy refreshments from the variety of yummy food trucks, the German

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Beer Garden, or baked goods and snacks sold by several local non-profits. For entertainment, families can choose to pitch a blanket or bring their favorite lawn chair, grab some popcorn & hot cocoa to enjoy The Polar Express Movie

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in the Park or enjoy music by the popular Anthony Moreno Band. The event resumes Saturday for Breakfast with Santa at Newman’s Bakery. Enjoy holiday shopping fun and Christmas activities, face painting, prizes, entertainment and more at Market Day and Farmers Market throughout the day until 4pm. Shoppers will enjoy not only the completely lined downtown square and covered pavilion of vendors but also the downtown shops of Bellville ready to help you check off your shopping OR your wish list. And don’t forget to stop by Market Day’s Gift Wrap Booth to thwart any potential nosy gift-recipients back at home! Please consider coming out to ‘discover Bellville’ and make it one of your places to go this year for Christmas fun! For more info go to bellvillesmalltownchristmas. com or call 979-865-3407.

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HISTORIC HOLIDAY The annual Christmas in Goliad creates a season full of cheer Story by WAYNE STEWART

oliad finds itself full of Christmas spirit, South Texas style, every year during the city’s annual Christmas in Goliad. The celebration takes place around the historic Goliad Courthouse Square. The town celebrates the entire Christmas season, but for two days on the first weekend in December, Goliad pours its heart into Christmas. This year marks the 34th annual celebration of Christmas in Goliad. It all begins Friday, Dec. 1 as food booths along with arts and crafts booths open around the square. Live entertainment helps set the holiday mood as people gather for the lighted parade set to begin at 7 p.m. “Our parade begins with the Living Nativity,” noted Myra Heard, with Christmas in Goliad. “Around here we believe in putting Christ back in Christmas – it’s very important to us that’s why it opens our parade.” The Living Nativity scene is the leading float in the parade, and if nothing else, should be worth the trip, but there’s more. Mrs. Heard said the parade usually lasts about an hour and contains several entries. When the parade ends the arts and crafts booths along with the shops and restaurants around Goliad re-open, allowing people to get some Christmas shopping done. All the businesses around the Goliad Courthouse Square and downtown district put on their best light displays for visitors. It all gets revved back up again Saturday morning at 9

a.m. when the arts and crafts and food booths open, along with local businesses and restaurants. Throughout the day there will be live music and entertainment. Christmas in Goliad is uniquely Texas. At noon the big guy himself makes an appearance. That’s right, Santa is coming to town. The only thing is, reindeer don’t acclimate well to the South Texas climate so instead Santa comes to town riding a longhorn. “He comes in at high noon,” Mrs. Heard chuckled. “Santa rides around the square and then sets up at the corral. Kids can come by and get their picture taken with Santa. They also can sit on the longhorn.” All this is at no cost, but parents should bring their own cameras. That’s not everything, though, as the festivities move out to Mission Espiritu Santo and Presidio La Bahia. At the mission a chorus is set to perform a Christmas concert at 6 p.m. Not far away, at 8:30 p.m. at Presidio La Bahia, don’t miss Las Posadas, which tells the greatest story ever told – the story of Jesus. Volunteers of the Goliad Historic Commission make everything happen. Christmas in Goliad helps them keep the museums open and history. To learn more about all the happenings at Christmas in Goliad, give the Goliad Historical Commission a call at (361)645-8767, or visit them on Facebook.

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Christmas Events

A SEASON OF JOY Conroe rings in the holidays like no other town in Texas Story by WAYNE STEWART

et out of the big city and head to Conroe and the surrounding area for some old-fashioned Christmas fun. Be in Montgomery, just a few miles west of Conroe on Texas Highway 105 for Christmas in Montgomery. This day features an arts and crafts sale in the Old Community Center Building in downtown from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Christmas Parade begins at 11 a.m. with this year’s them of American Christmas, Norman Rockwell Style. Kids can have Breakfast with Santa at the Living Savior Lutheran Church from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Beginning at 4 p.m. take the Candlelight Home Tour through the historic homes of Montgomery. It’s also the day of the annual Cookie Walk where visitors can buy delicious holiday cookies by the pound. The proceeds benefit the preservation of historic Montgomery. On Nov. 28, Conroe holds its annual tree lighting ceremony in the city’s Heritage Place Park. The following week Conroe holds its annual Christmas Cele-

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bration from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in downtown Conroe. The Kiwanis Club Christmas Parade is set for 1 p.m. to go with the Conroe Christmas Celebration. This festival includes a pair of snow hills, face painting, a petting zoo and pony rides, train rides, a Live Nativity scene, camel rides and more. Throughout much of the month of December the Crighton Theatre presents “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” a holiday classic the entire family can enjoy. For a completely different Christmas experience, head to lake Conroe on the evening of Saturday, Dec. 9 for the fifth annual Christmas Boat Parade, considered the greatest event held every year on the beautiful waters of Lake Conroe. See boats festooned with lights parade across the lake, bringing a lot of joy and fun to the whole family. There are several restaurants and other venues upon Lake Conroe for visitors to take in the beautiful sights. To learn more go to www.livelakeconroe.com.

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TEXAS EVENTS

November Happenings

Christmas Wonderlands and more include a special appearance by Santa Claus, live performers by local entertainment including the Galveston Ballet, and the lighting of the hotel’s 35-foot Christmas tree on the front lawn. During the event, the hotel collects donations for the Salvation Army of Galveston County. Hotel Galvez & Spa, 2024 Seawall Blvd. hotelgalvez.com 409-765-7721

BOERNE

Dickens on Main

Nov. 24-25 Dickens on Main The 18th annual celebration officially kicks off the holiday season in Boerne, spreading tidings of good cheer and merriment. Shop for unique holiday gifts along Boerne’s Hill Country Mile for Black Friday and Small Business Saturday while the whole family enjoys live musical entertainment, Dickens-era theatrical performances, a variety of children’s activities including Santa and a 60-foot snow slide, live ice sculpting shows, horse-drawn carriage rides, snow on Main Street, and more. Hill Country Mile, Main Street. visitboerne. org 830-248-1617

SALADO

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

December 1, 2, 8, and 9th Tablerock Amphitheater Salado, TX 25th Annual performances of A Christmas Carol, Dickens Yuletide Play. Concessions open at 6:00pm: Hot & cold drinks, chili, funnel cakes, snacks. Show at 7:00pm. Adults $10.00, Students $5.00, Child 12 and under $3.00. tablerock1@aol.com www. tablerock.org

GALVESTON

A Christmas Wonderland Nov. 24-25 A Christmas

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Wonderland One of the most delightfully enchanting Christmas shows ever, featuring glittering costumes, a dazzling cast, and the highest kicking chorus girls this side of the North Pole. Holiday favorite songs include “White Christmas,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” “Let it Snow,” and more. The Grand 1894 Opera House, 2020 Postoffice St. thegrand.com 800-821-8194 or 409-765-1894 Nov. 24 Holiday Lighting Celebration Start of the holidays with the city’s official holiday lighting. Festivities NOVEMBER 2017

STONEWALL

Holiday Cookie Decorating and German Traditions

Nov. 25 Holiday Cookie Decorating and German Traditions Observe and learn some of the early 1900s German holiday traditions such as cookie decorating, wreath making, tree decorating, and candle making. Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm, Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Site. tpwd.state.tx.us/ state-parks/lyndon-b-johnson 830-644-2252

HENDERSON

Christmas Parade

Nov. 30 Christmas Parade Visitors enjoy a tree lighting and lighted parade. Downtown Historic Henderson, 100 E. Main St. visithendersontx.com 866-650-5529 ext. 268

JEFFERSON

Texas Sounds International Country Music Awards

Nov. 2-5 Texas Sounds International Country Music Awards Top independent country artists, from 18 nations, perform and compete for Texas Sounds awards. See and hear at least five acts per night. Downtown Event Courtyard, 119 W. Austin St. texassounds. org 925-497-3915 Nov. 3-4, 17-18 Jefferson Flea Market Shop for new and antique items, arts and crafts, garagesale items, furniture, fixtures, books, dishes, office supplies and more. Jefferson Flea Market, 213 W. Broadway St. jeffersonfleamarket.net 903431-0043

KILGORE

Texas Pipe Organ Festival

Nov. 6 This year’s event will be held at the First Presbyterian Church in Kilgore and other selected locations. St. Luke’s, 401 E. Main St. easttexaspipeorganfestival.com KILGORE: Nov. 16 Derrick Lighting Set each year on the Thursday before Thanksgiving, the night includes the ceremonial lighting of the stars atop KHPF’s memorial derricks downtown. Each November, the foundation’s signature year-end event welcomes local entertainers and honors an individual or group in the

community, granting them the spotlight and the privilege to throw an oversized switch as the LED stars flare above. Worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Richest Acre, 101-199 E. Main St. kilgorechamber.com

PALESTINE

Polar Express Train Ride

Nov. 24-Dec. 30 Read along with the story as the historic steam train makes its magical round-trip journey from the Palestine Depot to the North Pole. Meet Santa and enjoy caroling, hot cocoa, treats, and gifts. Texas State Railroad Depot, Park Road 70. texasstaterailroad. net 855-632-7729

ENNIS

Lights of Ennis Parade and Block Party

Nov. 30 Enjoy a parade of lights, live music and dance performances, childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s activities, food trucks, photo ops, and more. Downtown Ennis, 119 N. Dallas St. visitennis.org 972-878-4748

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TEXAS EVENTS FAIRFIELD

A Square Affair on Small Business

Nov. 25 Saturday, vendors set up on the downtown square to help you find the perfect Christmas gift. Free for vendors, free for attendees, and fun for everyone. Freestone County Courthouse Square, 118 E. Commerce. fairfieldtexaschamber.com 903-389-5792

MEXIA

Mistletoe, Music and Magic

Nov. 30-Dec. 2 Christmas Festival The three-day event kicks off with a Christmas Parade of Lights, followed by vendor

November Happenings booths and music. Visitors will find handcrafted jewelry, decor, and crafts at inside booths, along with food and larger items at outdoor booths. A DJ performs onstage throughout the event. Mexia Civic Center, 101 McKinney St. mexiachamber.com 254-562-5569

WAXAHACIE

Veteran’s Weekend Nov. 10-12 Veterans Weekend and WWII Reenactment Reenactors from all over the state of Texas set up camp and re-create battles from WWII. Historic Downtown Waxahachie, 100 W. Main.

waxahachiecvb.com 469-309-4040

SMITHVILLE

Airing of the Quilts and Garden Club Home Tour

Nov. 11 Airing of the Quilts and Garden Club Home Tour Visit beautiful homes in the Smithville historic district, while at the same time a collection of hand-created quilts will be displayed all over town as a nod to a historic past and specialized craft. Drawings are held downtown. Main Street. smithvilletx.org 512-237-2313

LEWISVILLE

“The Nutcracker” Nov. 25-26 LakeCities Ballet Theatre performs a favorite seasonal ballet of wonder and magic. Through the years, it has become a Christmas tradition, rising in popularity to become one of the most beloved ballets of all time. Audiences will be treated to special returning guest artists Sarah Lane, soloist with American Ballet Theater of New York, as the Sugarplum Fairy; and Daniel Ulbricht, soloist and principal dancer with New York City Ballet, as her cavalier. Marcus High School Auditorium, 5707 Morris Road. lakecitiesballet.org 972-317-7987

ELGIN

November Events Nov. 4 Veterans’ Appreciation Parade This parade is for veterans and their families and supporters, to show them appreciation for their service. The parade will start at Main Street and 11th Street and continue on Main through downtown to Brenham. Veterans of Foreign Wars, 118 Old Sayers Road. myvfw.org 512-285-2300 Nov. 9 Sip, Shop, and Stroll Sip a little wine and shop as you stroll through downtown stores. Find diverse merchandise, eclectic decor, artwork by local artists and live music in many of the storefronts. Historic Downtown Elgin. elgintx.com Nov. 17 Holiday Lighting Kick off the holiday season by lighting up Elgin. See the singing Christmas tree, and enjoy the sounds of the season downtown. City Hall, 310 N. Main St. elgintx.com

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Gift Guide S A TEX 3

TOTALLY TEXAS

The Gallery at Round Top Handmade gifts from the heart of Texas. Gift cards available at The Gallery at Round Top, Round Top, Texas. http://www.stores.thegalleryatroundtop.com/ 979-249-4119 4

FALL FASHIONS

B T

FINE LINENWEAR

M W f e o t 2 v 9

MimiBella Shop MimiBella for the wonderful comfort of linen fashion. Mix, match the wide selection of styles in luxurious colors. Find your holiday fineries, or gifts for the special women in your life. And enjoy our personalized attention and service. Shops in Round Top & Bellville. 979.865.2121 MimiBellas.com

Merle Norman Btq It’s fall ya’ll! Visit Merle Norman Btq in Mexia for the latest fall fashions from Sharon Young, Ivy Jane, KUT denim Volatile and much more. Add in the accessories by Brighton and cosmetics too. They have it all at Merle Norman Btq, 309 E Milam, Mexia, Texas 76667 (open mon-sat 10am-5pm)

JEWELRY & GIFTS

Mule Barn Boutique We have a great selection of clothing, jewelry and gifts, plus beautiful boots for men, women and children 2 stores: Madisonville and College Station or visit us online www.mulebarnboutique.com 936-348-2862

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STERLING BELLS

The Gallery at Round Top Pendants and charms designed and created for every occasion and for that special someone. Order your gifts today! The Gallery at Round Top, Round Top, Texas http://stores.thegalleryatroundtop.com/jewelry/ the-bell-collection/; 979-249-4119

“BEST LITTLE BOOTHOUSE IN TEXAS” 5

Mule Barn Boutique We have a great selection of beautiful boots for men, women and children designed exclusively for us or come in and create your own dream boot. Clothing, jewelry and gifts, too! 2 stores: Madisonville and College Station or visit us online www.mulebarnboutique.com 936-348-2862

UNIQUE STATEMENT

MimiBella The perfect boutique to find unique statement-piece jewelry – the perfect gift for a special someone, or yourself. Choose from our carefully curated collections of Richard Schmidt, Mariana, Andrea Barnett, and Ayala Bar, to name a few. And while you’re here, shop other special gift items that speak to the romance or vintage in you. Shops in Round Top & Bellville. 979.865.2121 MimiBellas.com

LUX DRESSING

Alternatives The holidays call for lux dressing - like this velvet top and cardigan. They go perfectly with a brocade, embroidered bag shown here. Shop Alternatives in Bellville for something a little different. 21 S. Bell, Bellville, TX - on the square. 832-264-0917

ONE-OF-A-KIND

Nettles Choose your own unique, one-of-a-kind Limited-Edition Cowboy Santa custom-made at Nettles Country, a Texas-style store at the Nettles Ranch in Madisonville. These Cowboy Santas wear custom-made hats with silver buckles and tips, custom made chaps with buckhorn conchos, custom made belts with silver buckles and Santa’s custom-made bag. Cowboy Santa stands 43” tall and is guaranteed to do his part to fill your home with Christmas spirit. Nettles Country Store where the American entrepreneur spirit still exists. Located 3 miles west of Madisonville on Highway 21. 936-348-6541 or 800-729-2234

FALL FASHIONS

Merle Norman Btq Oil tanned leather lace up the back tall boots by Very Volatile available at The Merle in Mexia along with other styles to choose from! Merle Norman Btq, 309 E Milam Mexia, Texas 76667 open: mon-sat 10am-5pm

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RELICS OF YESTERDAY SEARCHING FOR ANTIQUES, COLLECTIBLES & VINTAGE FINDS WITH LINDA

Unique antique furniture sets Uptown Vintage apart One thing that separates Uptown Vintage in the Avenues from other antique shops according to owner, Peggy Stansbury is the furniture they offer. Not only can antique hunters find priceless vintage and antique furniture here, but many uniquely re-purposed pieces as well. Peggy says, “We do have a lot of re-purposed furniture but for the DIY’ers, we also carry LINDA MOFFETT supplies to restore and refinish your own projects, such as Howard Woodcare Products and Rethunk Junk Paint which comes in a variety of colors, finishes and protective coating.” Uptown Vintage is a very eclectic store with so much to offer its shoppers. There are 19 vendors displaying a huge variety of antiques and treasures from Avon collectibles, to re-purposed pieces, to fine furniture. Stansbury moved to this spot in September of this year from her downtown location of two years. The antique store is Peggy’s retirement dream after working in the oil industry for many years. She moved her store from its downtown location to give her more space and eventually she hopes to be able to utilize the extra space in the back of the store to rent out for tent sales and the building next door will be used for paint classes and childrens parties. “In addition to the unique and wonderful collectibles and antiques that you will find, we also offer a wide range of candles and other products to keep your house feeling and smelling like home,” says Peggy. The Holidays are upon us and Uptown Vintage offers not only great gifts for everyone on your list but they also have gift cards and lay-a-way. Peggy invites everyone to stop by and check out Antique Buffet her dream store refurbished with and she is sure Rethunk Junk that you will paint find that perfect item that you are looking for as a gift for someone on your Christmas list or maybe you just want to complete your own wish list! We can help you with that. Uptown Vintage in the Avenues is open Monday - Friday 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. : www.facebook.com/UpTownVintage Phone: 936-439-6595

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Antiques and vintage finds make for great Christmas gifts

Unique antique 3 Tea Crate: This tea crate was shipped to Galveston from Adams Peak, Sri Lanka (Ceylon) around 1910-1920. Adams Peak is a geographical feature that produces a fine silver tip white tea that is among the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best teas. The crate held tea fannings which is a grade of crushed tea leaves. For more information visit the Ceylon Tea Museum website. You can find this antique tea crate, the chicken laying boxes above and many other collectibles and relics at Armadillo Emporium 101 W. Commerce, Fairfield; FB or Instagram @armadilloemporium or call 903-389-3336.

One Horse Open Sleigh 5 Rocking Chair: Be the only one in your neighborhood to dash through the snow in your one horse open sleigh this Christmas, circa 18501899. This sleigh, which is in great condition, includes staves and a buggy whip. Find it and other great antiques at Duncan Depot, 106 W. Main Street, Palestine, TX. 903-724-0402; www. duncandepotantiquestx.com.

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RELICS OF YESTERDAY Cattle brands and horseshoes 4 Stool and Desk: This mid century stool and desk with and cattle brands and horseshoe drawer pulls is from an estate near Fayetteville. Available at Alternatives 21S. Bell in Bellville. Ph:832-264-0017

Steam Engine antiques 4 Dead Weights: This unique box holds a set of dead weights for testing pressure on a steam engine gauge, patented 1884. Find this box of antiques at Old Town Vintage & More, 215 E. Crawford Street, Palestine, TX. 903-2216233; oldtownvintagepaltx@yahoo.com. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday - Saturday or by appointment.

Unique Furniture 3 A great find: Find this great piece of furniture at The Crossing in Wells Creek, 305 E. Crawford, St., Palestine, TX. They offer unique furniture with an updated twist and great finds and one-of-a-kind items.

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HOME

s f i f N a t t t T C

Best of Texas

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Story by WAYNE STEWART

SPIRIT OF THE AMERICAN WEST KR Wood dedicates album to the 150-year anniversary of the Chisholm Trail

s a young child my Dad introduced me to the Sons of the Pioneers, the famed western singing group that sang songs of the trails and life in the Old West. K.R. Wood, also known as Camp Cookie to some, sent me recently Songs & Tales of the Old Chisholm Trail, the music brought me back to the days of my childhood when the crackling tunes of Bob Nolan and the other Pioneers jumped off the vinyl and filled my imagination of a life spent in the saddle. “I intended to bring back the memories of the music people grew up on,” Mr. Wood noted. “We wanted to be a part of the resurrection of this music and to keep it alive.” The two-disk album is dedicated to the 150-year anniversary of the Chisholm Trail. It contains 34 songs, some traditional and some original music by Mr. Wood. Featured on the album are nota-

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ble Western artists Red Steagall, Don Edwards, Michael Martin Murphy, Ray Benson, Augie Meyers, Gary P. Nunn, Mikki Daniel, Kimmie Rhodes, T Gozney Thornton, Bobby Keel, Bob Livingston, Doug Moreland and more. Back in 2016 Mr. Wood was approached by the Hyatt Lost Pines Resort in Bastrop, asking him to do a Western Variety Show for them. Mr. Wood said they wanted a very “Texas” theme for the show, The Old Chisholm Trail Western Variety Show was born out of that. The show featured a world champion trick roper, a world champion pistol twirler and bull whipper, a wrangler on horseback, Mr. Wood as Camp Cookie running the chuck wagon; a trail boss also providing a bit of cowboy poetry and the K.R. Wood Quartet, performing the songs of the trail. On March 2, Texas Independence Day,

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the Texas Legislature honored and recognized the work of “Songs & Tales of the Old Chisholm Trail,” noting, “K.R. Wood has made an important contribution to the American identity by capturing the spirit and essence of one of the nation’s enduring legends, the cattle drive, and he is truly deserving of special recognition.” Music has long been associated with cowboys on the trail. Countless Western movies show cowboys singing songs to keep the cattle calm and to pass the time. The songs tell the stories of life on the trail, and Mr. Wood has carried on the tradition for a new generation. Back in the 1930s, there were still many people alive who remembered the life of the great cattle drives when millions of cattle and thousands of cowboys drove them up the Chisholm Trail from South Texas, across the Indian Nations of Oklahoma and to the railheads in Kan-

sas. The Sons of the Pioneers, founded by Bob Nolan, tapped into the nation’s nostalgia from its not-too-distant past. Nolan wrote countless songs about those romantic years of the American West honoring the American cowboy. Some of their tunes such as Tumbling Tumbleweeds are as iconic the Chisholm Trail itself. Mr. Wood tapped into the same spirit. And while I know longer ride my imaginary pony along with my six-shooter and trusty rifle by my side through the family living room to the crackling of the vinyl disk; Mr. Wood brought those days back to me once again. “This music is the truest form of Americana music,” Mr. Wood said. “As the country expanded the settlers brought music with them from the Mohawk and Cumberland Valley, and they gave us the Red River Valley.” Mr. Wood grew up with the music of the American West. Men like Red Steagall, Michael

Martin Murphy and others were mentors of Mr. Wood and worked to keep the genre alive. The original music developed by Mr. Wood, like “A Nickel A Head,” keeps the music going as he tells the story of the suspension bridge in Waco, paid for by the cattle crossing the bridge paying a nickel a head to cross. The songs, the shows, it’s all about honoring the cowboy and the history. “It really was a work of love,” Mr. Wood said. “I had a lot of support along the way, but it was a project that needed to be done to honor the sacrifice all those men involved in that great exodus of cattle from Texas.” ——— Songs and Tales of the Old Chisholm Trail is available for purchase through Texanna Records. Visit their website at www.TexannaRecords.com to order or to learn more about K.R. Wood, the music and the shows.

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GARDENING BASICS

lets get growing

ORCHIDS

Like wonder woman - beautiful but tough Story by Jolene Renfro Crockett Garden Club and Davy Crockett Master Gardeners

rchids are considered rare, exotic and delicate. In reality, they are common in nature, are becoming commonplace as houseplants, and they are tough. The trick to enjoying long lasting blooms of the orchid is that after you purchase one, find the right environment. To grow an orchid, think like an orchid! As the second largest plant family (right behind the Aster family), there are over 30,000 species of orchids found everywhere around the world except for deserts. They are so common that about 1 in25 plants in the world is in the orchid family â&#x20AC;&#x201D; there are 900 species of orchids in Borneo alone. All orchids share the characteristics of having flowers with bilateral symmetry, highly modified petals, fused stamens, and extremely small seeds. A majority of orchids are Epiphytic, growing on a support such as a tree, and using their aerial roots to absorb water and nutrients from the air, not the soil. Familiar Epiphytic Orchids are the Cattleyas and

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Phalaenopus orchids. Some others, called Lithophytic Orchids, can grow on rocks, still using roots to absorb what they need from the surrounding air. An example of this orchid group is the Dendrobium orchid. Terrestrial Orchids grow in grasslands or the forest in temperate climates such as ours, but still receive most nutritional requirements from the air. Our native Ladies Tresses orchids additionally need a root fungus that it parasitizes in order to grow. Other Terrestrial Orchids are the Cymbidium orchid and the Lady Slipper orchid. Perhaps the most interesting aspect of orchids is their use of deception in order to get their seeds pollinated. For example, many flowers produce nectars to attract pollinating insects and advertise it by exuding a perfume. The Green Wing orchid produces no nectar, but mimics the look of other flowers that do, thus fooling insects to come calling, without

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expending a lot of energy. Bee orchids go even further. They look like female insects and even release an odor mimicking females, so that male insects even prefer the orchid over the real female insect. There is another orchid that pulls this same

con game on a wasp. This may be the answer as to why orchid flowers last for such a long time; they are patiently waiting for the correct insect to come along and be fooled. Another interesting approach to distributing pollen, is the one that the

Oncidium orchid takes, mimicking another male bee as the orchid blows in the wind. Being very territorial, the bee attacks the orchids over and over, thinking they are rivals, and in the process spreads the fertilizing pollen from flower to flower.

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GARDENING BASICS

The Bucket orchid makes use of imprisonment, using the enticement of its perfumes to lure insect visitors. The large fleshy lip of the flower is expanded into a bucket-like receptacle catching water that the orchid produces. The strong scent produced by the flower draws in male bees of the genus Eulaema, and they scratch vigorously at the flower to get at the liquid producing the odor. And when they do get to the liquid, it is enough to make the bee drunk, he falls into the bucket, and as he struggles to climb out, he knocks the pollen on to himself. When he finally sobers up some and frees himself, he manages to climb out of the bucket, going off to the next flower, repeating the procedure, and in the process, carries pollen from one flower to another. The condensed version of how to care for orchids that you purchase can be summed up in five basic points: 1. Keep your orchid watered, but not waterlogged. Water every 5 to 12 days. A good way to do this is place 3 ice cubes at the base of the plant. Keep the water off the leaves. 2. Once a month feed your orchid with a fertilizer made for orchids. 3. Plant orchids in small pots with good drainage holes, and repot once they have outgrown their container, using special orchid mix (bark particles if it is an Epiphyte, and a loam mix if it is a Terrestrial). 4. Cut the bloom spike down to Â˝ inch once all the blooms have faded. 5. Keep orchids in a warm place (65-85 degrees F.) with good air circulation and out of the direct sun. I bought an orchid the first week in April and in the last week of June it still had a few blooms hanging on. How is that for tough beauty?

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RECIPES

Thanksgiving Blessings Put a new spin on the traditional holiday meal by adding a bit of Texas and Southwest flair.

Recipes by WAYNE STEWART Photography by CHRISTINA STEWART

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RECIPES

hanksgiving approaches quickly, but one question remains, what’s for Thanksgiving dinner? What happens when the thought of roasting another turkey and serving the same old thing seems like more of a chore than a pleasure to prepare? Well, to answer all these questions with another question, why not do something different? Blend a little spice with tradition by adding some zip to a green bean casserole. Mix a little savory with some sweet potatoes for a true taste bud treat. Cook up some chipotle mashed potatoes, and for the dressing, add a southwest flare and a bit of extra flavor. You may not want to completely abandon the turkey for Thanksgiving, but if you are looking for something new, why not try some chicken fried turkey. That’s right, buy turkey breasts and thinly slice

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it into cutlets, bread and fry – it’s a great way to get people to eat a bit of turkey. Bake up a batch of sourdough rolls to round out the meal. For dessert, how about a delicious pumpkin cake topped with a cream cheese icing, pecans and drizzled with a touch of caramel?

Pumpkin Cake with Pumpkin Cream Cheese Frosting 1 1/2 cups sugar 3/4 cup brown sugar 1 cup butter, softened 1/2 cup oil 3 eggs 3 cups flour 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon salt 1 cup buttermilk

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1 can pure pumpkin 1 cup chopped pecans Mix together sugar, brown sugar, butter, oil and eggs. In a separate bowl mix the flour, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda and salt. Add flour mixture to sugar mixture a third at a time, alternating with buttermilk and pumpkin, fold in chopped pecans. Pour into three 9-inch round baking pans that have been greased and floured. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 to 35 minutes, or until knife inserted in center of cakes comes out clean.

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Frosting 1 pound (2 packages) cream cheese, softened 4 cups powdered sugar

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RECIPES 1 teaspoon cinnamon 8 tablespoons butter, softened 1/3 cup pumpkin puree 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Mix powdered sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg. Mix powdered sugar mixture with the cream cheese a cup at a time, continue to beat until

smooth; add in the pumpkin puree and mix until smooth. Frost between each cake layer, then sides and top. Top cake with pecan halves and drizzle with caramel. Refrigerate any unused portions of cake.

Southwest Cornbread

Dressing Cornbread 4 cups corn meal 1 cup flour 2 eggs 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda 1 teaspoon salt 1 to 1 1/2 cups buttermilk Mix together all ingredients and pour into baking pan and cook in 400-degree oven 20 minutes or until inserted toothpick comes out clean. Allow to cool and then crumble. Dressing 1 cup (2 sticks) butter 4 sticks celery, chopped 2 medium onions, chopped 4 garlic cloves, minced 1 15 ounce can whole kernel corn, drained 1/2 cup canned chilies,

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chopped 3 to 4 cups chicken broth 3 eggs Cornbread, crumbled 3 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped 1 teaspoon Kosher salt 1 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon chili powder Melt butter and sautĂŠ celery, onions, garlic and fresh sage; cook until vegetables are tender. Add in salt, pepper and chili powder; stir in chili peppers and corn and heat through. Remove from heat and mix together with cornbread, chicken broth and eggs. Place in baking pan and bake at 350 degrees for about 30 minutes. To make this a main dish, try adding a boiled chicken, or even a couple pounds of smoked sausage to the dressing.

Chicken Fried Turkey Breast 1 package turkey breast, thinly sliced 2 to 3 cups flour 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon chili powder 1 to 1 1/2 cups buttermilk 1 egg Oil for frying

utes or until potatoes are tender, remove foil, sprinkle cheese evenly over sweet potatoes, return to oven and cook another 5 minutes, or until cheese is melted.

Chipotle Potatoes 4 to 5 pounds Russet or red potatoes 1/2 cup butter 1 cup sour cream

2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, pureed 1 teaspoon Kosher salt Peel potatoes, place in pot and boil until tender. Drain potatoes then return to pot. Meanwhile, mix the chipotle pepper puree with sour cream, add sour cream mixture, along with butter to the hot potatoes and mash or blend with a mixer until smooth or

Mix the egg and buttermilk in a pie plate or other similar dish. In another dish mix together the flour, salt, pepper and chili powder. Dip turkey cutlets into buttermilk mixture then dredge through the flour mixture. Place into heated oil; oil should be 350 degrees. Fry until golden brown and juices run clear. Serve hot.

Savory Sweet Potatoes 4 or 5 sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced 1 small onion, sliced 1/2 cup apple juice 5 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled 4 tablespoons olive oil 1 teaspoon Kosher salt 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese Place all ingredients, except for the cheese, in a baking dish, stirring thoroughly, cover with foil and cook in 350-degree oven 35 to 45 min-

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RECIPES desired consistency. Adjust amount of adobo peppers to reach desired level of spice.

Southwest Green Bean Casserole 2 pounds frozen green beans 1 pound mushrooms, sliced 1 cup heavy whipping cream 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1 small onion, chopped 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon pepper SautĂŠ onions and garlic in bacon drippings until tender, add mushrooms and continue to cook until mushrooms are tender, season with salt and pepper. Add the cream and half the cheese and cook about 5 minutes or until thick. Place green beans in baking dish, pour mixture over top of beans and stir to coat beans. Bake in 400-degree oven about 20 minutes, add the remaining cheese and cook an additional 5 minutes, until cheese is melted.

Sourdough Rolls 3 to 4 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 cup sourdough starter 1 packet instant yeast 2 tablespoons sugar 1 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons instant potatoes 1 egg 6 tablespoons butter, softened 3/4 cup warm water 2 tablespoons instant potatoes

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Combine 3 cups of flour and the rest of the dry ingredients, then stir in the sourdough starter, softened butter and warm water. Turn onto dough board and knead, adding the remaining flour as needed. Work dough about 10 minutes, or it becomes elastic. Place dough ball in a greased bowl, turning dough to coat all sides, cover and allow to rise 60 to 90 minutes, or until at least doubled.

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Gently put fist into dough to deflate. Divide dough into 16 equal pieces, shape into ball and place into greased baking pan. Cover and allow to rise about an hour, until doubled. Before baking, coat with melted butter and bake in 350-degree oven about 12 to 15 minutes, or until rolls are golden brown.

TFH

Cafés Across Texas

Story By Wayne Stewart

Ponte’s Diner OFFERS THAT OLD-FASHIONED DINER EXPERIENCE

earching for that old-fashioned diner experience? Then travel to Fairfield to Ponte’s Diner, located at I-45 and U.S. 84, on the west side of the interstate. Since the early 1980s it’s been welcoming guests along the interstate as well as locals to its family dining experience with standard American fare. “We offer hamburgers, chicken fried steak, some Mexican food, a good variety of food,” noted Ponte’s Diner owner Sonny Daniels. “We’re a classic diner.” Everything is made from scratch, the hamburger patties are made there, the steaks are breaded there, the onion rings are sliced and breaded there – they do everything and it shows in the food and the customers that return to Ponte’s Diner day after day. The décor hearkens visitors back a different time, even if they are not from a different time. There’s even a jukebox located inside the restaurant, though it’s a bit more modern than the old Wurlitzers. “We try to make the customer feel like they are stepping back in time,” Mr. Daniels noted. “We try and make it feel

like one of the diners from the 50s.” Along with standard diner fare, Ponte’s also offers an allday breakfast menu for its patrons. Ponte’s also offers daily

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TFH

Cafés Across Texas

B F v w p d s b r r 9 2

H Rebecca and Darris Lewis

specials, so the more you go the more you can have. What hasn’t been mentioned, yet, about Ponte’s Diner is its old-fashioned soda fountain. Ponte’s also serves Blue Bell ice cream and with the two they make several different desserts from great tasting shakes, to ice cream sodas, banana splits and more. “The desserts at the diner all center around ice cream,” Mr. Daniels noted. “It just fits with the diner.” As noted before, Ponte’s offers burgers, and when Mr. Daniels really wants something special, he orders a Bacon Cheeseburger with onion rings. “That’s my go-to meal,” Mr. Daniels said. “When I’m really feeling bad, though, I’ll throw in some chili-cheese fries, they can really pick you up.” Ponte’s Diner is open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day. Ponte’s Diner is located at 680 W. U.S. Hwy. 84 in Fairfield. For those traveling along I-45 Ponte’s is located on Exit 197.

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N O c f g 3 H 9

THE DIRECTORY Support Texas, Shop with Texans

HOME IMPROVEMENT & SERVICES BI-STONE BUILDING SUPPLY For all your home improvement needs visit Bi-Stone Building Supply for hardware, paint, lumber, floor covering, plumbing, window treatments, storm doors, storm windows, screens and sun screens, electric, building materials, bathroom accessories and fencing materials. Plus they do new construction and remodeling and have guns and ammo. 910 E. Milam, Mexia, TX 76667 254-562-9341

HOUSEWARES & GIFTS NETTLES COUNTRY One-of-a-kind home dÃ©cor, home accessories, Christian gifts, wall art, nettles famous stirrups and other exceptional gifts can be found at Nettles. 3 miles west of Madisonville Square on Hwy 21 West 936-348-6541 or 800-729-2234

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LIFE ON A RED DIRT ROAD

Plowing ground

hen I was growing up I used to work for a county official that lived near us. I don’t know what his first name was, but everybody called him Edge; Mr. Edge in my case; Edge McNeul was his name. Along with his job at the county he also had some land scattered here and there around our little community. In one spot he farmed about 5 acres of tomatoes. I would rather farm a hundred acres of cotton than 5 acres of tomatoes. Tomatoes are work, but sometimes you just got to do what the boss says, and if Mr. Edge wanted me to work tomatoes, I worked tomatoes. One spring he had me out plowing ground for his tomato patch. He had an old Ferguson TO 35 tractor. It looked, ran and operated like a Ford 8N, it had a two-bottom plow attached to it and they both were brand new. I was out plowing with it and it ran out of gas. Mr. Edge came by and instead of bringing gas to it, he decided to tow me and the tractor to the nearest filling station, about a mile-and-a-half away. He was afraid to leave the tractor behind, worried someone would run off with his brand new equipment. So anyway, he pulled a chain out of a 48 Ford pickup, threw it around the front of the tractor and took off. The tractor had been doing some pretty heavy plowing in some tight ground, so he had put water in the back tires of the tractor to get some traction. As we traveled up the farm-to-market road to the filling station, apparently Mr. Edge forgot I was back there. The road wasn’t paved then, but it was pretty hard packed and that old Flathead V8 he had in that pickup of his was purring along pretty good. We must have been doing 30 or 40 miles an hour when the water in the tires started rolling over with the tires instead of staying at the bottom. If you’ve never ridden a bucking bronc, then try riding one of those old tractors

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when the water starts rolling. Every time the water rolled up to the top of the wheel the back of that ol’ tractor jumped up about 2 inches. Tractors don’t have horns, no flashing lights — nothing, I had no way to getting the old man’s attention and no way of stopping that truck… Except. Running out of options, sure that I was going to get thrown off that tractor and die at any moment I did the only thing I could think of, I dropped the lift on that tractor and within less than a hundred feet, that two-bottom plow brought everything to a stop. Mr. Edge slid out of the pickup and hobbled back to me, he was limping a bit because a couple months before a cow he roped drug him out of the back of that same pickup. Anyway he hobbled back there, looked at that furrow left in the middle of the road and then back up at me and grinned. “I forgot you were back there boy,” he grunted. “I reckon if we had some plants we could plant some tomaters right here on the highway.” I grinned back, my heart still racing from my neardeath experience and said, “Yessir, we sure could Mr. Edge.” That’s about the time I looked up and saw the filling station less than a hundred yards away. I breathed a sigh of relief, knowing I would live to see another day. We hooked up to his disk and got the road straightened out for the most part and I went back to plowing his field and Mr. Edge went back to work after another day of life on a red dirt road. ——— Bern Clute is a lifelong East Texas resident, rancher, farmer, sawmiller and storyteller. He and his wife Annie still live on the family farm, raising cows and getting in each other’s way.

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