Bastrop Town & Country Spring Journal 24

BASTROP TOWN & COUNTRY

Dining OUT: Local Food Truck Scene Heirloom Gardening 101

CRAFTED FROM THE HEART SPRING ROOM REFRESHERS

Spring Journal I S S U E

N O .

1 5

M A R

/

A P R

/ M A Y

2 0 2 4

05

Editor's Note

08

Heirloom Vegetables

10

Plant this Now

11

Busy Mind - The Birds’ Houses

13

Dining Out: Food Trucks

17

Live Music Schedule

21

Made From the Heart

23

Drink this Now

25

Spring Room Refresh

26

Rustic Galettes

31

Take a Wildflower Drive

512.619.5322

1015 MAIN ST. BASTROP

By Appointment

Design Services

Desiree Laux – Founder/Designer

Home Furnishings

Desiree@BlackandWhiteInteriors.com

Window Treatments

FROM THE EDITORS

Hello,

Again

Happy Spring!

Our Spring issue is always one of our favorites.

Remember that photo shoot with goats having a picnic? I lost some fine china doing that one.

By the end of winter, we all can use a little sun. BT&C usually explores an outdoor activity like hiking or canoeing but this year we opted for outdoor eating.

We first covered local food truck cuisine in 2021 with the queen, Yoli (RIP.) Bastrop County’s burgeoning food truck scene is booming with great food and a community of interesting proprietors.

Besides eating outdoors, we dive into gardening with heirlooms and also some suggested wildflower drives—all great ways to catch a little sun (tag us @bastroptownandcountry on IG.) New this issue, we accomplished a goal we’ve long had to write about cool DIY projects. It was harder than we anticipated so tell us what you think of our first attempt: a Breakfast in Bed Tray, just in time for Mother’s Day giving.

We’re keeping it fresh but leaning on our old favorites too - great recipes (Rustic Galettes) and Drink this Now (Peach Ginger Bourbon Frozen.)

Living, working, and playing just East of Weird is especially a pleasure in the springtime, so grab yourself a hammock or a picnic bench and enjoy!

Cheers!

Karen Derr and Jon Ryan Publishers and Editors

Email us at BastropMagazine@gmail.com or look for us on Facebook & Instagram

A Unique Style Bastrop has a style all its own and those who make their home here take advantage of being a small town, near the big city, in the middle of Texas's big country. Bastropians are dark skywatchers, golfers, ranchers, a little horsey, artsy, outdoorsy, Main Street dreamers, who love local. If you'd like to reach Bastrop County residents, try an ad in Bastrop Town & Country magazine. It's mailed to owner-occupied homes and ranches across Bastrop County. Call Advertising Sales at 512-720-8290 or email BastropMagazine@gmail.com.

E M A I L U S T O A D V E R T I S E O R S U B M I T A P H O T O O R S T O R Y I D E A F O R O U R N E X T J O U R N A L .

Seed Exchange at Eden East, 1910 Main, Bastrop agrilifeextension.tamu.edu

Joe Masabni, Ph.D., with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service horticulturist, Dallas, encourages home gardeners to learn how to save their own seeds, which will ensure they have the seed they need next growing season. Seeds from heirloom varieties will grow “true to type,” which is not always the case with hybrid varieties.

“Teaching people how to save seeds is part of our AgriLife Extension education,” he said. “We always encourage saving seeds, especially varieties you like, as part of a well-rounded gardening experience.”

As a general rule, it’s best to save seeds from the best tasting and biggest harvested fruit.

“Seed saving is great because plants will perform better season after season once acclimated to local growing conditions,” Masabni said. “It’s like you’re creating your own heirloom variety when you save seeds.”

WHY GO HEIRLOOM? For many, the most compelling reason to plant heirloom varieties is taste.

Most of us know something about heirloom tomatoes. In the grocery store, where most tomatoes are similar in shape, color, and size, those labeled heirloom are beautifully bumpy, in hues from yellow to purple, and all reds in between. Besides standout looks, you’ve probably noticed heirloom tomatoes also are pricey — both at the market and in restaurants.

Here are a few reasons why you might want to pay more for heirloom vegetables or even grow your own.

Taste — Prior to about 1950, many home gardeners and farmers saved seeds from year to year. They chose seeds from their most flavorful and hardy plants, gradually developing their own unique varieties. Back then, you certainly didn’t care to save seeds to grow more consistently round fruit to fit neatly in a bin or cellophane packages. Taste was the end goal. Bastrop farmer David Barrow says, “About 75% of our vegetables are heirloom varietals. The big ones would be tomatoes or some of our lettuces and specialty greens.” His farm, Eden East is at 1910 Main in Bastrop.

Self-sufficiency — All heirloom plants are openpollinated, naturally by insects or breeze. Seeds from these varieties can be saved and will grow fruit, vegetables, or flowers that are like their “parents.” Once you grow them, you can grow them again and again. No need to worry about supply chain at the local big box.

Tradition — Now, hear us out. You may not know the names of your ancestors who were farmers, but many of us do have agricultural roots.

HEIRLOOM: A TRADITION OF GOOD TASTE

Seed Savers is a non-profit committed to heirloom seeds and biodiversity. Its founder, Diane Ott Wheatley’s grandfather entrusted to her the seeds of two heirloom varieties, ‘Grandpa Ott’s’ morning glory and the ‘German Pink’ tomato. These seeds were brought by Grandpa Ott’s parents from Bavaria (Germany) when they immigrated to Iowa in 1884. The point is, you too can start with open-pollinated seeds from your own garden, picking the tastiest and hardiest each year to save. You can hand down seeds that you’ve saved for the best flavor and that grow best in the soil, water, and climate in your little gardening corner of the world. Like heirloom furniture or jewelry, your seeds might be treasured for years to come.

The Downside — Bonnie Plants is a large supplier that sells both heirloom and hybrid plants to stores like Walmart and Home Depot. They concur that gardeners report their heirloom vegetables do deliver a superior taste. Despite better flavor, there are some drawbacks to planting heirlooms. Hybrid plants typically yield a crop that is uniform in both appearance and timing.

Heirloom vegetables may produce a "mixed bag" harvest. The harvest may come in less predictably, and fruit size can vary greatly even on the same plant. In other words, they might be a little more work for a less consistent crop. However, if you save the seeds that did best in your garden each year, you’re results could get better and better.

A Movement — According to SeedSavers.org, in the last century we lost 75 percent of our edible plant varieties. A food system that depends so heavily on so few crops is extremely fragile. When seed diversity is strong, our food system is protected. This diversity increases the probability of having crop varieties that adapt to different climate conditions and to certain diseases.

Particularly in the U.S., genetically engineered plant varieties have had a devastating impact on biodiversity. According to the USDA’s Economic Research Service, in 2013, 170 million acres of GMO crops were planted in the United States — roughly half of all American cropland. These patented seeds cannot be saved and planted again in the years that follow. Find out more at SeedSavers.org.

Chef Sonya Cote

830 Main St. Bastrop - StoreHouseBastrop.com

In the spring, at the end of the day, you should smell like dirt.

-Margaret Atwood

Plant This Now...

Early March: Plant Asparagus Crowns, Collards, and Turnips Mid to Late March: Corn, Cucumbers, Eggplant, Peppers, Pumpkin, Squash, Watermelon All March: Beans, Lettuce, Mustards, Radish Seeds, Tomato Plants Early to Mid-April: Peppers, Squash, Tomato Plants, Radish Seeds All April: Beans, Corn, Cucumbers, Eggplant Plants, Okra, Peanuts, Pumpkins, Southern Peas, Sweet Potato Slips, Tomatillos, Watermelons All May: Sunchoke, Jicama, Malabar Spinach, Okra, Peanuts, Pumpkins, Southern Peas, Sweet Potato Slips, Tomatillos, Watermelons

FRESH AT A FARMERS' MARKET NEAR YOU The Bastrop 1832 Farmers’ Market is open every Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm.

Bastrop1832FarmersMarket.org Elgin's Farmers Market open Thursday - from 4 pm to 7 pm at Veterans' Memorial Park.

ElginFarmersMarket.com

Master Gardner Dolores Leeper is the editor of the Garden Guide for Austin & Vicinity and the Secretary/Treasurer for the Bastrop 1832 Farmers' Market.

Page 8

Eden East Farm Stand at 1910 Main Street Bastrop is open 4-7 PM Wednesdays, 9 am-1 pm Fridays & Saturdays. edeneastaustin.com/farm/

Busy Mind - The Birds’ Houses

by Charlie Amos from his book Recovery I've noticed the littlest things about myself throughout recovery that need to change. Among them is the seemingly endless crowd control going on in my head. My mind sees things and thinks "I can change this or that" about them, like improving a birdhouse or fixing what isn't broken.

Honestly, most things don't need my intervention.

The thing about these flawed, tiny little mental processes is that they are always harmful to me. They are symptoms of my bigger problem. I've wanted things to be “just so,” in order that they be familiar to me so that I can deal with them in the ways that “I know how.”

I've wanted to change things to cause them to become more known to me and thereby cause them to require my care and come under my control.

What I need to do is let things be the way they are and learn new ways to understand them.

It's more difficult to change the way I understand things and learn new ways to do things.

But if I persevere, I find that by accepting things as they are and learning “their ways,” I begin to appreciate that there are other valid ways to live. Then I become more respectful of others and more accepting of myself.

This is an interesting lesson to learn while sitting on my back porch and looking at “my birdhouses.” More appropriately, I should say, “the birds’ houses.”

Prime Show Properties

JUST SOLD 115 Rockrose Cv. Bastrop List Price $712,500 Westin New construction in The Colony.

PRICE IMPROVEMENT 713 Chestnut St, Bastrop $875,000 Almost 3600 sf, single level, lots of storefront exposure on busy Chestnut.

Beautifully finished with 3 modern baths, a kitchenette, access from Karen Derr Realty Group city parking lot.

Phone 512-720-8290 1010 Chestnut St Bastrop

464 E. Lower Line, La Grange $285.000 Farmhouse in the heart of La Grange zoned commercial or residential.

1525 sqft, 2 beds, 1.5 baths Third of an acre lot

Karen Derr Karen Derr Realty Group Phone 512-720-8290 Karen.Derr@compass.com

Paula Collins Hartland Real Estate Phone 713-594-5295 Paula.Collins@gmail.com

Thinking of Selling?

LIST WITH THE KAREN DERR REALTY GROUP AND HAVE YOU HOME FEATURED HERE FOR FREE!

Karen Derr Realty Group Phone: 512-720-8290 1010 Chestnut St. Bastrop

UNDER CONTRACT 27644 Spring Hill Rd. Waller Co. $749,500 Where country living meets modern luxury!

One story on ~2.5 acres fully fenced and a 30x60 shop. Convenient to HWY 290 with an easy drive to Houston or Austin .

450 Woods Prairie Cemetery Ln, West Point $1,259,000 14.40 acres in the West Point area of La Grange.

2013 custom-built Country Cottage. +/- 3000 sqft, 4 beds, 3 baths. Includes large workshop/barn, Jon Ryan Karen Derr Realty Group equipment shed.

Agricultural exemption. 5 Phone 512-701-3642 Jon.Ryan@compass.com minutes to Smithville.

Paula Collins Hartland Real Estate Phone713-594-5295 Paula.Collins@gmail.com

Brought to you by your local Bastrop REALTORS® For Prime Show Properties Advertising Call 512-701-3642.

BastropMagazine@gmail.com

The Brunch Box Taqueria Cerro Azul International Grub 212 North Main St, Elgin

511 North Main St, Elgin

101 South Main St, Elgin

Food Trucks: the Ultimate al Fresco If you think you’re not “food truck people,” you might want to reconsider.

Ahh hungry Readers, it’s time to get outdoors to enjoy the sun and soft Spring air. And how better to do that than with a freshly made banana and Nutella crepe in hand, or maybe an award-winning pie and a cup of roasted-on-thespot coffee is more your speed. Or sit down with our favorite — a vibrant Ethiopian feast of grilled lamb, lentils. peas, beets, greens, and the delectable Ethiopian sourdough flatbread, emjera. All of this and more is offered in downtown Bastrop at Chestnut Grove Food Truck Court.

has taken off, so don’t be afraid to get out there and explore for yourself.

Not to be outdone, Elgin also has tempting offerings for take-home or dining al fresco. Ethiopian, Honduran, French, Southern comfort — the Bastrop County food truck scene

Let us introduce you to our favorites and some we plan to try soon. That way, when you belly up to that window, you’ll be able to greet the proprietor like an old friend.

Having owned a food trailer in a past life, the BT&C publishers know how hard these operators work and also how fun it can be. When you’re serving food in a trailer or truck, and there’s one on every corner, your food has to be superb or you won’t survive. And quality costs so don’t expect food truck fare to be inexpensive.

Did we miss one of your favorites? Email us at BastropMagazine@gmail.com.

In Ethiopia, I learned to cook my mother’s recipes. I also worked at the Sheraton Luxury Collection hotel so I have a background in hospitality.

Grilled lamb, lentils. vegetarian stew, beets, greens, and emjera flat bread.

NOT styrofoam take-out boxes

Owner of Abyssinia Cafe located at 710 Chestnut Street, Bastrop, Frehiwot Merene (left). Besides fresh made Ethiopian specialties, she serves pasta dishes and Caesar salads.

Page 16 Despite the fact that both his maternal & fraternal great grandfathers were French, the recipe Rafael Morales has been using to make crepes for over 25 years is not a family one.

He was given the recipe, made with sourdough starter, by a friend while he was an aircraft technician for United Airlines and also owned a coffee shop.

Now retired from United, he and Maria opened at 710 Chestnut in Bastrop in 2023.

Of course the Morales’ don’t live on crepes alone. “We enjoy eating from our fellow Banana & Nutella trailers & at Paige Farm House Crepe with Whipped Cream —-their fish tacos and salmon Also available GF. are delicious.”

Rafael and Maria Morales, owners of Abelitos Crépe Cafe

Everything that I make is a family recipe or it is a recipe that my mother collected in her travels being an Air Force wife. I don't make a lot of the fancy stuff. Most of my recipes are tried and true Southern old family recipes that my family started making back in the 20's and the 30s and on up to today.

Mary Jayne Buckingham, Cutie Pies.

710 Chestnut, Bastrop 512-552-8319

A two-time National Pie Champion and a MasterChef, Mary Jayne Buckingham, took first place in the National Pie Championships competing against 300+ bakers from all across America in 2013 & 2015. She owns Cutie Pies at 710 Chestnut in Bastrop.

www.ChestnutGroveFTC.com

Also at Chestnut Grove Food Truck Court, 710 Chestnut St. in Bastrop BayBay’s Seafood - Shrimp and Crab Legs Sunshine Sister Coffee and Roaster Smoked Love BBQ

N CH B U R B E

Page 16

OX

TH

“In 2020 I appeared on the television show MasterChef and won my white apron with my Peach Key Lime Habanero pie, thereby naming me one of the top 15 Home Cooks in America. Southern Living Magazine named my Buttermilk pie the fourth best pie in the Southern United States.”

Whenever we’re looking for the inside story on anything in Elgin, we have a couple of go-to sources; one is artist Stacey Van Landingham of BeanandNoodle.com. That’s how we heard about the ribeye sandwich at The Brunch Box. Brother and sister team, Sam and Pam Vanden opened their business in 2022 and moved it from Bastrop to Elgin in 2024, to Millie’s on Main’s beautiful covered patio.

They have the entrepreneur bug but also they’re serious about serving up the food they grew up with. Pam explains, “We handpick all our ribeyes and add the best seasoning so you enjoy the best sandwich you’ve ever had.”

Pretty lofty goals, but we’re hearing good things and Pam says she loves when customers brag about their food.

The Brunch Box Double Meat Cheeseburger 212 N. Main, Elgin

Happening this March 1 & 2 - Figurative Showcase at Found Fine Art Gallery This event will showcase the art of Angela Mia, figurative sculptor & jeweler; Loren Miller, oil and charcoal portraitist; and Andrew Thorne, portrait sculptor. Friday 4-7 pm & Saturday 10 am-6 pm Free event 912 Water St. Bastrop Mar 1 - 17 Varying Dates- Grumpy Old Men the Musical Presented by the Bastrop Opera House. The story of two aging men, Max and John, neighbors who have been feuding for most of their lives. Invigorated by their shared affection for their new neighbor across the street, the beautiful and charming Ariel. https://bastropoperahouse.org for show times and more information.

March 2 - Opening Weekend of Sherwood Forest Faire Robin Hood's Spring Faire - a medieval-themed festival running for eight weeks in rebuilt spaces in the woods near McDade, Texas. Over 150 shows daily and 170 artisans on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 to dusk https://www.sherwoodforestfaire.com

March 29 - Good Friday March 31 - Easter Sunday April 1 - April Fools' Day April 5-14 Varying Dates - Prelude to a Kiss - Presented by the Bastrop Opera House. Tony Award nomination as Best Play, and was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. At Peter and Rita’s wedding, a mysterious old man insists on kissing the bride. While honeymooning, Peter gradually realizes that the woman by his side is not his wife. The wedding kiss caused Rita’s soul and the old man’s to change places. Peter must track down the old man and free his young love’s spirit. https://bastropoperahouse.org for showtimes April 6 - Total Solar Eclipse starting around 12:30 PM

March 5 - Election Day

April 15 - Tax Day

March 6 - Local Author Ryan Holiday Live Q & A for his podcast at the Bastrop Public Library at 6:30 PM Free Event with donations accepted RSVP at friendsofbastroplibrary.org

April 22 - Earth Day

March 8 & 9 - Enjoy 16 hours of Free Live Music at the Smithville Folk Music Festival. It's all taking place in downtown Smithville at the Gazebo. Fri the 8th 5-10 PM & Sat the 9th 11 AM - 10 PM March 9 - Master Gardeners Spring Plant Sale 9:00am1:00pm at Bastrops Mayfest Park at 25 American Legion Dr. in Bastrop, TX. Vegetables, herbs, pollinators, perennials, succulents, natives and more! https://txmg.org/bastropcounty/ March 10 - Daylight Savings Time March 14 - Catch & Release Fishing Spring Break with Elgin Parks & Recreation. Thursday, March 14th 10AM - 12PM FREE Morris Memorial Pond, 802 N. Ave C. Join Parks & Recreation for catch and release fishing at Morris Memorial pond. A limited number of fishing poles and bait provided.

Knot tying station and pictures taken of your catch!

March 17 - St Patrick's Day

Page 16

SPRING SEASON

April 22 - Passover Begins May 4 - Relay for Life of Southern Bastrop County Presented By: American Cancer Society Erhard Stadium,1624 Hill St., Bastrop. Phone: (512) 565-2986 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM. More than just a fundraising walk, the American Cancer Society Relay For Life brings together passionate supporters who embody the American Cancer Society's vision to end cancer as we know it, for everyone.

May 4 - 5 - Wildflower Trail Run 5k 10k 25k & 50k runs at Bastrop State Park Wildflower takes place over two days with a range of standard and unique race distances. Visit https://www.trailracingovertexas.com/wildflower for more information and ticket pricing May 5 - Cinco de Mayo May 12 - Mother's Day (see our DIY gift on page 21) May 27 - Memorial Day

Live Music Mar 1 - Sean Orr and the Texas Gold Live at Copper Shot 7-110PM

Apr 12- The Phantom Shakers Live at Neighbor's Kitchen 7-10pm

Mar 1 - Danny Brooks & Lil' Miss Debbie at Neighbor's 7:00-10:00

Apr 12 The Merls Live at The Copper Shot Distillery 7:00-10:00

Mar 2 - Michael Anthony Trio Live at Neighbor's Kitchen 7-10:00

Apr 13- Kathy Murray & the Kilowatts Live at Neighbor's 7-10pm

Mar 2 - Dreamstereo Live at The Copper Shot Distillery 7:00-10:00

Apr 14- Monte Good Live at Neighbor's Kitchen & Yard 5:00-8:00

Mar 3 - Fallon Franklin Live at Neighbor's Kitchen & Yard 5-8pm

Apr 19- Hannah Wrights & Midnight Revelry at Neighbor's 7-10pm

Mar 8 - Nick & Page Live at Neighbor's Kitchen & Yard 7:00-10:00

Apr 19 -The Wyldewood Road Band Live at Copper Shot 7-10pm

Mar 8- Gary Cain Live at The Copper Shot Distillery 7:00-10:00

Apr 20- Bottlecap Mountain Live at Neighbor's Kitchen 7:00-10:00

Mar 9- Anamé Rose Live at Neighbor's Kitchen & Yard 7:00-10:00

Apr 21- Mandy Rowden Live at Neighbor's Kitchen 5:00-8:00

Mar 10- Ryan DeSiato Live at Neighbor's Kitchen & Yard 5:00-8:00

Apr 26- Shambha La's Live at Neighbor's Kitchen & Yard 7-10pm

Mar 15- Ted Russell Kamp & Friends Live at Neighbor's 7:00-10:00

Apr 26- Tish & the Mizzbehavin Live at The Copper Shot 7-10pm

Mar 15- Whitestone Live at The Copper Shot Distillery 7:00-10:00

Apr 27- The Ben Zuniga Band Live at Neighbor's Kitchen 7-10pm

Mar 16- Ru Coleman & the Big Hurt Live at Copper Shot 7:00-10:00

Apr 28- Buddy Vargas Live at Neighbor's Kitchen & Yard 5-8:00

Mar 16- Chris Duarte Group Live at Neighbor's Kitchen 7:00-10:00

May 3- Max Rios and the Waysiders Live at Neighbor's 7:30-10:30

Mar 17- Julie Bouchard Live at Neighbor's Kitchen 5:00-8:00

May 3- Sean Orr Band Live at the Copper Shot Distillery 7-10pm

Mar 22- Phil Hurley & Friends Live at Neighbor's Kitchen 7-10:00

May 4- Rochelle & the Sidewinders Live at The Copper Shot 7-10

Mar 22- The Shop Dawgs Live at The Copper Shot 7:00-10:00

May 5- Fallon Franklin Live at Neighbor's Kitchen & Yard 5-8:00

Mar 23- Etta Place Live at Neighbor's Kitchen & Yard 7:00-10:00

May 10- Natalie Metcalf Live at Neighbor's Kitchen & Yard 7-10:30

Mar 23- Rock House Live at The Copper Shot Distillery 7:00-10:00

May 10- Pierre & The Night Cats Live at The Copper Shot 7-10:00

Mar 23- Sir Jay Asling & Intercontinental Rev. at The Fat Cat 7:-9

May 11- Mr Bullavard Live at Neighbor's Kitchen & Yard 7:30-10:30

Mar 24- Troy Stone Live at Neighbor's Kitchen & Yard 5:00-8:00

May 12- Wook Wizard Live at Neighbor's Kitchen 5:00-8:00

Mar 29- Natalie Metcalf Live at Neighbor's Kitchen 7:00-10:00

May 17- Oscar Ornelas Trio Live at Neighbor's Kitchen 7:30-10:30

Mar 29- Joe Bobb's Bar & Grill live at Copper Shot Distillery 7-10

May 17- Maverick Drive Live at The Copper Shot Distillery 7-10:00

Mar 30- Jake Waylon Trio Live at Neighbor's Kitchen 7:00-10:00

May 18- Monte Good Band Live at Neighbor's Kitchen 7:30-10:30

Mar 31- Ella Reid Live at Neighbor's Kitchen & Yard 5:00-8:00

May 19- Ella Reid Live at Neighbor's Kitchen & Yard 5:00-8:00

Apr 5- Everett Wren Live at Neighbor's Kitchen & Yard 7:00-10:00

May 24- Phil Hurley & Friends Live at Neighbor's 7:30-10:30

Apr 5- Ben Zuniga Band Live at The Copper Shot 7:00-10:00

May 25- Anamé Rose Live at Neighbor's Kitchen 7:30-10:30

Apr 6- Rochelle & The Sidewinders Live at Neighbor's 7:00-10:00

May 26- Ryan Desiato Live at Neighbor's Kitchen 5:00-8:00

Apr 6- The Pertners Live at The Copper Shot Distillery 7:00-10:00

May 31- Beth Lee and the Breakups Live at Neighbor's 7:30-10:30

Apr 7- Brian Wolff Live at Neighbor's Kitchen & Yard 5:00-8:00

Information was accurate at the time of printing but subject to change. Call ahead to confirm, please.

Happening Every Month Live music at Storehouse Market & Eatery - Wednesdays 7-9 PM Bingo at Bastrop Beer Co. - Wednesdays 7-9 PM Cornhole Tournaments Community Gardens Wednesdays 7 PM Elgin Sip, Shop & Stroll - 2nd Thursday Downtown, 5 -8 PM Art After Dark Lost Pines Art Center - First Saturday, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM art, live music & refreshments.

Trivia Tuesday at Heroes Sports Bar, Wednesdays 7-10 PM Karaoke Night at Heroes Sports Bar Thursdays 6-10 PM Trivia Nights Bastrop Beer Co. Thursdays 7-9 PM Comedy Standup at Film Alley Saturdays - See times https://bastrop.filmalley.net/ Open Mic Night at Fat Cat Lounge, Smithville - Every Thursday 7-9 pm. Signup starts at 6:00. 301 Main St. Cornhole Tournament at Bastrop Beer Co. Tuesdays 6:30-10 PM Open Ride Day at Mayfest Park, 1st & 3rd Tuesdays 8 AM-10 PM www.cityofbastrop.org/page/parks.home Farm Street Opry, 1st Thursday 5:30 PM Singles Mingle at Film Alley - 2nd Thursday 7-9 PM Gayme Night - Every 3rd Thursday with Bastrop Pride at Bastrop Games & Hobbies 5:00-9:00 PM, 711 Chestnut Bastrop.

Family Feud Game Night Tuesday 7:00 PM Bastrop Beer Company Hero’s Sports Bar Karaoke 7:00-10:00 PM Thursday Nights

B T & C

R e n e

I b a r r a ,

R E C O M M E N D S

D i r e c t o r

VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE ABOUT OUR UPCOMING TOURS AND TO SIGN UP TO RECEIVE 2024 TOUR UPDATES CUBA ~ Nov 7 – 18, 2023 Oaxaca City plus Monte Alban ruins February 16-22nd Oaxaca Folk Art -Feb 22nd – Feb 29th, 2024 ARGENTINA - Buenos Aires, Iguazu Falls, Mendoza March 1st – 12th, 2024 CUBA ~ Havana - March 29th – April 5th, 2024

o f

T o u r s

CAMIBAculturaltours embodies the essence of world travel as it influences the art culture. Our excursions give tour-goers an intimate glimpse at the process behind the masterpiece as well as the artists themselves. We offer tours to a growing number of destinations including Cuba, Oaxaca Mexico, San Miguel de Allende Mexico, Mexico City, Argentina, Guatemala & Peru.

512-937-5921 CAMIBAculturaltours.com

Why Choose Ally Medical Complete service ER Open 24/7 Compassionate and patient centered care On-site lab On-site X-ray, ultrasound, and CT scan Flexible billing Little to no wait

512 W. Hwy. 71 Bastrop, TX. 78602 512-321-0911 www.AllyMedical.com

Made from the Heart for her. because sometimes you just feel crafty.

Nothing makes Mom feel more appreciated than a homemade gift... Especially if it’s a good one.

Materials List for 12" x 24" Tray one 1/4" x 2" x 24" one 1/4" x 3" x 24" one 1/4" x 4" x 24" one 1/4" x 6" x 24" one 1/2" x 3" x 24" cut into two 12" pieces Paint or stain for wood if desired.

Sandpaper 4 10" hairpin legs or other style legs 2 handles 5/8" small wood screws Instructions: Arrange the thick 1/2" boards 24" apart. Lay the 3", 4", and 6" boards down across the 1/2" boards, leaving a 1/2" gap between the 3" and the 4" to form the back of the tray.

Use a square to even up the ends with the outer edges of the 1/2" boards.

A bed tray with a slot for holding a phone or tablet.

Still working on the back of the tray, screw through the 1/4" boards into the 1/2" boards.

Attach the legs. ONLY SCREW INTO THE 1/2" BOARDS. You don’t want your screws to go through to the top of the tray.

Attach the 2" strip to cover the gap with screws at each end. All screws are applied to the back of the tray except the handles.

Turn the tray over and attach the handles with 5/8" screws.

Touch up screws to match hardware with paint or Sharpie.

Notes: Lumber widths are 1/2" less than quoted. For ease, we used a pricey precut poplar from Southerlands. It’s easy to change the size of this tray and use what wood you have. If you go with thicker boards, you’ll need longer screws. The hairpin legs and handles are available at Hobby Lobby and often on half priced. sale You can also find them online from many sources.

This tray is easy enough for beginners and can be greatly refined by someone with more experience building with wood.

Don’t fuss over imperfections; great design covers them well.

Use the tray to present her with homemade jelly and scones or tea sachets and a vintage teacup or even a special book.

1/4" x 4" x 24" x 1/2 "

3x1

2"

1/4" x 6" x 24" Slot 1/4" x 3" x 24"

1/2 "

x3x

12 "

All Natural Bath Salts 3 cups plain Epsom salt (soothes) 2 cups coarse pink Himalayan sea salt (beautiful & softens) 1/4 cup baking soda (cleanses) 18 drops essential oils (enhances mood) Lavender (calming) or eucalyptus (invigorating) essential oils deliver a lovely scent. Mix all ingredients well in a bowl with your hands or a large spoon.

An excellent bath salt can also be made with 100% Epsom salt and no Himalayan. If you prefer showers, use a stopper so water collects while you shower and enjoy a soothing foot soak and aromatherapy.

This thoughtful gift is a great addition to a beautiful jar, bag or bowl you’ve curated or decorated for the lucky recipient. Add a scoop or large spoon if you like.

THE GINGER PEACH FROZEN COCKTAIL 3 CUPS SLICED PEELED PEACHES, FROZEN 2 TABLESPOONS FINELY GRATED PEELED GINGER 6 OZ. BOURBON 3 OZ. SIMPLE SYRUP 2 OZ. FRESH LEMON JUICE 2 CUPS ICE ROSEMARY SPRIGS FOR GARNISH

Purée peaches, ginger, bourbon, simple syrup, lemon juice, and 2 cups ice in a blender until smooth and thick. Adjust sweetness with more simple syrup if needed.

Divide among glasses and garnish with Rosemary sprigs, if desired.

Makes 2-3 Tall Drinks.

This cocktail can deliver quite a zing depending on how hot the fresh ginger is and how sweet the peaches are, thus the recommendation to adjust the simple syrup before serving.

If you’ve never acquired a taste for bourbon, this cocktail is equally delicious with dark rum. Go virgin by substituting strong green tea, thoroughly cooled.

Springtime Home "To Do" Clean gutters now to avoid rotting facia boards. Make sure your gutter blocks carry water at least five feet away from your foundation.

Clean your dryer vent. A clogged dryer vent is a fire hazard.

Have your fireplace chimney inspected & make sure your cap is in place to keep out nesting birds.

Have your A/C system serviced before the hot weather rush begins.

Mulch flower beds early to stave off weeds.

Put away hose bib insulating covers and while you're at it, check for leaks and drips.

Check & repair caulking around windows & exterior trim boards to keep moisture penetration at bay.

Check your attic while it's still below 125-degrees up there. Look for signs of rodents and make sure your ductwork is undamaged and firmly attached to vent boxes.

Hit the sales on pipe insulation, etc.

Grab items you wish you'd had during the winter freeze and stock up during the off season.

Be on the lookout for problems during Spring cleaning. Catching home maintenance issues early minimizes damage and can save you money.

This home maintenance reminder is brought to you by The Lori Tuggle Agency. www.lorituggleagency.com Your home is your largest investment.

Make sure it's protected year round.

Page 25

Spring With spring cleaning usually comes a yearning for a decor refresh. Here are a few ways you can freshenup a room with small changes.

Room

REFRESH

Bring the beauty of nature indoors with fresh flowers, green plants and herbs.

Add a bowl of citrus for some added color and deliciously fresh scents.

A change in textures can be key to a fresh decor. Put away fuzzy throws and sweater covered pillows. Ok..Ok..keep out one throw but make it a pastel color or a linen fabric. Danish-style hygge is still good but save fireplace-cozy for winter months when you’re trying to warm up a room’s decor. Make sure any fall or holiday inspired decorator pieces are also stored away in your seasonal closet. You’ll appreciate them so much more later in the year. And don’t forget to push back window coverings for extra light. In the cool of spring, you can open shades without putting stress on your air conditioner. Choose candles and room scents in fresh floral and light herbal scents in keeping with bringing the outdoors in.

Texture, Color, Light

Sherwin-Williams color of the year 2024 is called Upward.

They call it blue with a silver lining. You may be tired of greys but Upward leans more blue. SW suggests you accent this hue with Honeydew SW6428 or Palm Leaf SW7735. Pastels like Upward and Honeydew definitely sing Spring.

Do a coffee table or fireplace refresh. Replace logs in your wood burning fireplace with candles or a stack of decorative silvery birch logs that stay out all summer.

Make sure your design scheme includes some unifying colors, materials, or patterns from room to room..

Bastrop designer Desiree Laux with Black and White Interiors offers design services for a simple refresh or a total redo. She says, “Throw pillows are always a fun way to get a new look.” Her store at 1015 Main, Bastrop is a great resource.

www.BlackandWhiteInteriors.com

SAY BONJOUR TO SPRING INDULGE IN GALETTES: THE EFFORTLESS ELEGANCE OF RUSTIC PASTRIES Spring pie making should be as free and easy as a mimosa on the patio. None of the pie-induced panic of Winter holidays, thanks to the foolproof galette.

Even if your crust isn't perfectly crimped or your filling spills over, with its forgiving nature and rustic simplicity, imperfections only add to its charm.

Start with the dough: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 stick plus 2 tablespoons cold unsalted butter (cut into small pieces) 1/3 cup very cold water

Start with our tried and true pie crust recipe and then assemble these classic combinations in either full size or individual galettes. First lay down a layer of grated parmesan for savory, or cinnamon sugar for sweet galettes to ensure no soggy bottoms.

Make ahead and serve at room temperature or reheat briefly in a very hot oven for a warm and gloriously flakey appetizer, dessert or main course.

In a food processor combine flour, sugar, salt, and cold butter and process (about 5 seconds.).

Slowly add cold water and process just until dough comes together (about 10 seconds.)

Shape into a disk, wrap in plastic and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before rolling out to about 1/8" and about a 12-inch pie round, or cut disk into quarters for individual smaller galettes.

WHY BOTHER WITH THE PIE PAN? THIS RUSTIC FRENCH PASTRY IS SO EASY AND CAN BE AS SOPHISTICATED OR AS SIMPLE AS YOU PLEASE. HERE ARE SOME OF OUR FAVORITES

Savory—Perfect for appetizers, a picnic, or lunch served with a salad.

Spinach Artichoke Galette Sauté spinach, garlic, diced shallot or onion, and rough chopped canned artichoke until shallot is translucent.

Season to taste. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thick round.

Generously sprinkle dough with freshly grated parmesan cheese and fresh cracked pepper. Cover with the spinach mixture, leaving a 2.5-3-inch edge uncovered. Top with more parmesan.

Fold over the edges of the galette and brush with egg white thinned with a spoon of water. Sprinkle with flakey sea salt before baking on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 400º for 18-20 minutes.

Tomato Parmesan Basil - assemble as spinach artichoke galette but substitute thick sliced tomatoes for spinach mixture.

Add dried Italian seasoning on top of parmesan on the crust and fresh basil and parmesan on top of the tomatoes.

ment-lined baking sheet at 400º for 1820 minutes.

For Dessert — delicious with ice cream or whipped cream:

Fig Walnut Balsamic - assemble as apple galette with a layer of sugar first then halved figs, drizzled with balsamic reduction rather than honey.

Granny Smith Honey Apple Generously sprinkle rolled-out dough with cinnamon sugar. Cover with the peeled, cored, and sliced apples, leaving 2.5-3 inches around the edge uncovered. Top with more cinnamon. sugar, dot with butter, and drizzle with honey. Fold up the edges of the galette and brush with egg white, sprinkle the edge with turbinado or coarse sugar before baking on a parch-

Pear Walnut Gorgonzola - Substitute sliced firm pears for apples, and sprinkle with toasted walnuts and gorgonzola.

Cinnamon Peach Berry - assemble as apple galette but add a touch of nutmeg to the sugar mixture and substitute sliced firm peaches and assorted fresh berries for apples.

Uneven edges, odd shapes, and caramelized filling spills only make galettes more charming and delicious.

Dr. Sandra Dunkin, MD serves Austin and the Central Texas area at her Bastrop psychiatry practice.

Access psychiatric wellness.

BrainWell Psychiatry and Mental Health

BrainWellPsychiatry.com 909 Pecan Street Bastrop, TX 512-360-8488

Now Offering Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for Treatment Resistant Depression and OCD ADHD testing & treatment for individuals 12 years & older. Effective non-medication treatment options for insomnia.

BastropAreaCruisers.com Heroes & HotRods Car Show

Veterans' Day Weekend Nov 8 & 9

CRUISING Classic Cars in Bastrop County Page 29

Dude, that’s my car!

Does one of these fine rides seen around Bastrop County belong to you?

Claim your cruiser and we'll give you a $10 gift card to Tracy's Drive-In or Smithville General Store & Coffee.

Just text to 512-720-8290 or email BastropMagazine@gmail.com and tell us you saw it in Bastrop Town & Country Magazine!

1 per car, please.

Take a Wildflower Drive 290 W to Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Fredericksburg The Willow City Loop—a famous route for wildflowers—includes stretches of US 281, US 290, and Ranch Roads 1323, 1631, 2721, and 1320. State Highway 16 north from Fredericksburg, and on RR 965 to Enchanted Rock.

Burnet/Llano/ Marble Falls Highway 29 from Burnet to Llano, Ranch Road 2341 to Canyon of the Eagles Nature Park, and Park Road 4, which passes Longhorn Cavern and Inks Lake State Park.

Highway 16 between Llano and Cherokee, and Baby Head Cemetery about 9 miles north of Llano.

Washington County State Highway 105, Farm-to-Market 50 to Independence, FM 390 to Old Baylor Park, and FM 1155’s dog-legs between Chappell Hill Historic District and Washington-onthe-Brazos State Historic Site.

Find more routes at TexashHghways.com /wildflowers/