Postcards Magazine Lake Conroe March 2022

Lake Conroe

POSTCARDS Dr. Rotasha Smith / Dominque Sachse / Morgan Ashley / Easco Heating & Air

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FEATURES

March 2022

| Volume 11, Issue 3

10

24

Do You Know?

Texas Talent

Dr. Rotasha Smith

Morgan Ashley

16

32

A Special Conversation

Business Focus

Dominique Sachse

Easco Heating & Air

FAVORITES

Cover Photo by Courtney Ehlert Submission in 2021 Postcards Cover Photo Contest

6 7 8 9 14 15 21 22 28

Publisher’s Post Dear Gabby Let’s Celebrate From Our Readers Health Matters Glorious Grandkids Pet Pals Star Students Vet Connect

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Milestones What’s Cookin’ Sudoku Solutions The Garden Post What Are You Reading?

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Publisher’s Post Karen Altom publisher@postcardslive.com

Your Local Community Magazine!

The Bell Tolls for Me Last month in my column I mentioned a story I would share once I recovered from the shame. I haven’t recovered.

But I am going to share anyway.

As you know, I am a huge proponent of shopping local and shopping at home. In fact, I recently had a fellow magazine publisher contact me, and in our conversation he said, “You know you could get your printing done a lot cheaper elsewhere.” He was referring me to an out of state printer, and I said, “I know you probably think I’m crazy, but I am going to choose to support a Texas business over one who prints out of state.” Note: He didn’t say it, but I think he does consider me a little crazy.

I also tend to never buy anything off Facebook unless it’s a local business or a marketplace item where I meet a neighbor to purchase. In fact, if there is ever anything that gets my attention, I make sure there is an actual website, and I search that to locate a phone number, an address, and find out the story of their business. Technically, I really just want to know I can drive to that place of business (if there is a problem) and talk to a real person.

Back to the shame.

During the holiday season, I was incredibly busy, and I did not follow my self-set guidelines. TWICE. I saw a very cool holiday wreath made with a wagon wheel. They had photos of it hanging on a front door, as well as on a gate. I could envision this on my daughter’s door and my mother’s gate.

So, yes. I bought two. Shortly after, I saw a very unique bell with DEEP tones. They even had a video of it, and it was beautiful! My mother has lots of wind on the prairie where she lives; I knew both of these would be perfect gifts, and I was excited, so I ordered. And I waited. And waited.

The two packages finally arrived, neither as large as I expected. The wagon wheel was approximately 12” across. It looked like a miniature version of what I had ordered. And the bell. Oh, the big, beautiful, resonant bell with the deep tones. I don’t know what they videoed, but the metal pieces they sent me clang like a cowbell. Did I mention I ordered three? What a dope.

Sometimes what we think will be more convenient in the moment, ends up being a hassle and wasted expense.

So if you hear a cowbell around you, look for me. I might be wearing it as my self-punishment for being so gullible. Another reminder that hometown shopping is always best!

Until next time,

~

Karen

@PostcardsMag

PostcardsLive.com

If you would like to receive our magazine and are not currently on our mailing list, subscriptions are available.

MAILED to select postal routes in Conroe, Willis and Montgomery.

FREE rack copies at advertisers and businesses in towns listed above.

Published Monthly by Altom Consulting & Marketing, Inc. Publisher Karen Altom Editor Wes Altom Advertising Team Jennifer Abbrat Nancy Jolly Marshall Altom Design Team Mary Partida April Key Social Media Management Abby Altom Boyd

Printed in Texas by Shweiki Media Online: www.PostcardsLive.com Address: PO Box 690 • Huntsville, TX 77342 Call our Office: 936.293.1188 We reserve the right to edit or reject any material submitted.

The publisher assumes no responsibility for the return of any unsolicited material. No material from Postcards Magazine™ can be copied, faxed, electronically, or otherwise used without express written permission. Publication of articles, advertisements or product information does not constitute endorsement or approval

by Postcards Magazine™ and/or its publisher. Business Focus stories printed in Postcards Magazine™ are drawn at random from contract advertisers. © 2022 by Altom Consulting & Marketing, Inc., All rights reserved.

6 Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition | March 2022

Dear Gabby Welcome back to the Dear Gabby column! I’m still working from home, but it has its perks. I’ve been Employee of the Month for two years running!

March has us celebrating Mardi Gras and Saint Patrick’s Day. I spent several years in New Orleans during my childhood. They don’t hide their crazy during Mardi Gras; they parade it down the street.

And St. Patrick is famous for driving the snakes out of Ireland. That must have been an exciting road trip! I even celebrate the Ides of March. How? By eating a donut. I recommend that you do, too.

In fact, eat two, Brute! Drop me a line to Dear Gabby at PostcardsLive.com for some tongue-incheek life coaching.

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DEAR GABBY I am a professional man who grew up in a tiny town in Texas. I have worked very hard to erase my accent and always answer “near Houston” when asked about my hometown. Is it normal to want to cloak your identity if you are from “the sticks”?

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DEAR URB There is no such thing as normal. You are who you are, and I wish you could embrace it. I, personally, am proud to be from “the sticks.” Friday night was spent driving back and forth on the same street for hours. A traffic jam was 3 cars behind a tractor. If your car broke down outside of town, the news made it back to town before you did.

There wasn’t much to see in a small town, but what you heard made up for it. I thought I had amnesia, because sometimes the gossip had me doing things that I didn’t even remember. And I don’t drink. My hometown was so small, we didn’t even have a town drunk. They had to take turns.

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All these years later, we have fond memories of looking out for each other, and we still do. I’m sorry you erased those recollections, as well.

GABBY

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Do You Know?

Story by Gracie Barnett Photos by Gina Turner

Dr. Rotasha Smith Dr. Rotasha Smith has spent the past two decades educating and enriching children in Conroe ISD. The Huntsville native shares her lifelong desire to pursue education, encouraging words for young teachers, and the impact she’s been able to have in her career.

Where did you grow up and what were some of your hobbies?

“Never forget why you decided to go into education.”

10 Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition | March 2022

I was born and raised right there in Huntsville, Texas.

I’m a proud graduate of Huntsville High School, Class of ‘96. I was into gymnastics when I was younger and started taking lessons in 1st grade. I decided I wanted to follow in my sister’s footsteps and be a cheerleader. So, I cheered at Mance Park Junior High, where I spent my 6th, 7th, and 8th grade years, then went on to Huntsville High School and also cheered there. Also, one of my best friend’s grandma was Faye Burns who owned Faye Burns Dance Studio in Huntsville, where I took and taught dance lessons. In high school, I knew I wanted to teach and thought, “Why not just stay home and go to Sam Houston State University?” And that’s exactly what I did.

Was the desire to go into education something you felt at an early age?

Yes, it was my 8th grade year, and I had Mr. Lang for math and thought, “You know what? I really like math.” Not that I didn’t like math before, but I just fell in love with it. I remember thinking I really liked the way Mr. Lang

was getting the information to us and how he involved a lot of real-world stuff. I wanted to be like Mr. Lang when I grew up and teach junior high math. Then in high school, my Algebra 2 teacher, Mrs. Neville, really sealed the deal for me.

Can you take me through your career up to this point?

Being a proud Huntsville High School graduate, I wanted to be there and teach forever, because I love my community, and my family is still there. But God had a different plan for me, and Huntsville did not have any openings in December of 2000.

So, I got a job teaching math in Conroe ISD at Washington Junior High. I was there for eight years and taught math for

most of it, but for a couple years I was an Academic Achievement Specialist, so like a campus coach. During all that, I went back to instructional school and got my master’s in math education at Sam Houston State. I really enjoyed the instructional coaching capacity on my campus, but then took an interest in possibly becoming an assistant principal.

I felt like I was able to impact a lot of kids right there in my classroom, but thought as an assistant principal, my reach would be greater. So, I completed a certification program and became an assistant principal at Conroe High School. Then I became associate principal of operations here at Conroe High School. During that time, I worked under Dr. Curtis Null and was always looking for ways to grow as a leader, and that’s something he

really helped me with. So, when the position at Peet Junior High came open, I interviewed for it and got the position. In 2018, when I was preparing for my 5th year at Peet Junior High, I got a phone call that Conroe High School was going to have an opening. I became interim principal here and was in that capacity for a couple months before officially becoming principal in October of that year. That’s what I’m doing right now, and I absolutely love serving our kids and our Conroe community.

What does your day-to-day consist of?

It is different every single day. The only thing that is consistent on my schedule is car-rider duty in the morning and afternoon. So, I get to smile and wave and greet our students, and I know that unless I am off-campus or have a

» March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition

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meeting first thing in the morning, I know right away that is what I get to do. One thing I try to make sure of, that I learned from Dr. Null, is being visible and taking care of the students and staff. So I’m out in the hallways, and I try to get into classrooms to see what’s going on.

It sounds like you really enjoy the impact you can have on students and the community. Would you say that is your

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favorite part of being principal?

Yes, but also preparing students for the next step. I enjoyed teaching and being principal at the junior high, but being able to prepare students for the end result--whether it be college, the workforce, or the military-is special. Not only preparing them, but watching them walk across that stage knowing they’re ready for the next step.

What challenges would you say you face regularly?

I think the biggest one is how creative we have to be to make sure we meet the needs of every single student. We have some students whose families are ready to step in and help in any way they can. Then we have some who, when they leave school, it is the last thing on their minds, because they have to go to work to put a meal on their family’s table.

All our students have different needs, so we try to make sure we’re doing everything we can to ensure they’re successful. That’s one of the things I’ll say about my staff--they are so incredibly compassionate when it comes to

that, because they know all our students need different things.

What’s changed in education since you started, because of COVID-19 or otherwise?

I feel like, even before Covid, what’s changed for students and staff is just access to resources. Back when I was in the classroom, technology was a resource for teachers, but not as much for students. But then as I grew in my instructional leadership role and assistant principal, we had this technology we could put in the classrooms to enhance what the kids were getting. That’s the biggest thing — students are able to access their content or lessons anytime, anywhere.

What encouraging words or advice would you give young teachers who may be just starting out as COVID-19 is becoming the new reality in classrooms?

other districts, but I would hope this statement would be true for all districts. There is plenty of support for you, both at the campus level and the district level. I feel like teaching is a calling, and you do it for a reason. Again, the responsibility is great, but the reward is so much greater. When someone asks, “What is it I can do for you?” don’t be afraid to tell them, “This is what I need.” If I’m not able to check in with teachers, I try to check in with department chairs and team-leads to figure out what I can do to help. Never forget why you decided to go into education.

When Dr. Smith isn’t working, she enjoys spending time with her family and going to the gym, often with her husband. She feels very blessed to have an incredible husband and son, and to be enjoying the career she hoped for when she graduated from Sam Houston State University 21 years ago.

There is plenty of support. I can’t speak for

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By James W. Jones, MD, PhD, MHA

The Emphasis of Emotional Intelligence is Healthfulness With the gargantuan destructive impact the dreaded Covid has brought and continues to dispense, trends have developed to understand and improve lifestyle. In Health Matters, we have appraised how to enhance contentment by improving lifestyle. A recent nascent attempt by scientific psychologists is through EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE. Embracing that enhancement of self-control can greatly enrich one’s life.

Personal emotion is unlike many important aspects of living: it is considered to just transpire; it does so if no control is applied; and (like other aspects of our personality) it can always become better-quality.

According to the American Psychological Association, emotion has three components: an experience occurs in a person’s mind; this triggers one’s bodily physiology to respond in smiles or scowls; and behavior is adjusted accordingly. WOW! The human mind is divisible into conscious selves and a much larger subconscious division. This spontaneous instinctive brain tells our awake “self” what mood to accept and our conscious self-behaves accordingly. Without intervention and taking control, our emotional steerage is on autopilot.

OUR SUBMARINE SELVES!

Emotional intelligence presumes we may amend our emotions consciously to achieve a much better-quality, value-added lifestyle. Do away with aftermaths that need to think, “If I had only done it that way, it would have worked out fine”.

To cultivate the capability for possessing and then enhancing emotional intelligence, one must become aware of your emotional state.

Continually inquire as to feelings at this moment and begin to notice when your emotional status modifies. Then ask, “Why is this happening, and in what way can I receive the most good in my life by managing my emotional state?” While sadness might be considered the most common powerful negative emotion, stress seems to be the leading disrupter.

Stress is a reaction our mind and body have from the consideration of something that needs to be done or will happen or has happened--and generally, stress can easily get out of control unless well-ordered properly. Tell yourself about the many times you have overcome similar difficulties and smile as you realize this, too will pass. Realize you are in control of your life and be reassured you will overcome life’s

obstacles without beating yourself up. TREAT your “SELF” BETTER! Promise your “self” that, although we cannot control everything, it often comes out better than we expect; don’t waste effort worrying about things you can’t control. Be a positive thinker, concentrating on what is good in your life and choose to never overextend yourself emotionally.

The next steps are to consider and gauge the emotional states of anyone with whom you have a relationship, because using proper communication, you can impart some of your emotional intelligence and enhance their lives.

Expanding the concept, note the overall mood of any group you are with and stay in a healthy framework.

This seeking and securing will not happen at once, but over time as you continue to analyze and improve your overall emotional intelligence, becoming better able to dance life’s tune amazingly well. JUST KEEP GOING.

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A Special Conversation Story by Linda Perkins Photos by Gina Turner

Dominique Sachse Tall and slender with her hair highlighted and cut in a stylish bob, Dominique Sachse is immediately recognizable to anyone who has lived in the greater Houston area and watched the news on KPRC Channel 2. After 28 years with the station, she recently retired from her position as a news anchor, but is not shying away from the spotlight. She has taken what began as a sideline gig – giving beauty and fashion advice on YouTube – and expanded her online presence to become a full-time social media influencer and author of a new book titled LIFE MAKEOVER: Embrace the Bold, Beautiful, and Blessed YOU. Dominique sat down with Postcards recently to talk about her career as a broadcast journalist and the passion behind her new ventures.

16 Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition | March 2022

How did you break into broadcast journalism? Did you ever think you would become a primetime news anchor?

I was a sophomore in high school when MTV debuted. That was the first time I saw young people as broadcasters, and they were talking about content that mattered to me. Prior to that, all broadcasters were a certain age and demographic. My parents watched the nightly news, and I never saw myself in that way. But seeing these young people talk about music and interview the artists, I thought, “Wow, that’s amazing.” I was a natural communicator; loved to write and express myself, so I thought I would pursue music and entertainment television.

After I graduated from University of Houston, where I studied broadcast journalism, my first steps were with a company called Metro Traffic Control. I got a job as a traffic reporter part-time on the weekends for KLOL and KTRH. Then I would fill in for a variety of radio stations during the week. And so I got a regular slot on KHMX (which was Mix 96.5 at the time), and then I heard there was a position open for a disc jockey. So I went after that, and I pursued it and I became an overnight DJ at MIX from midnight to 5:30. I worked during the day as a production assistant. It was just a crazy start.

After two years of working as a DJ, I eventually made my way over to Channel 2, where I got hired as a traffic reporter. So that’s how I started there. Then I just worked my way through the ranks. It was an atypical path getting there, for sure, but I’m grateful for the journey. I’m grateful for the radio start to the journey, because I think it made me a better broadcaster in television news and maybe more comfortable in my own skin, and especially in breaking news situations.

You were with KPRC for 28 years.

What made you decide to retire and do something completely different?

You know how you just feel that internal tugging? I was beginning to feel that in the past couple of years. I had launched my YouTube channel in 2014, and I was really enjoying producing content that matters to me producing content that connects to women of our age and demographic, and sort of carving out that lane. When I started, there weren’t

many content creators for women 40 and 50 plus, so I felt like I sort of fell accidentally into this little niche. And it was really speaking to my heart.

I was kind of waning in the whole TV news industry and losing that hunger and appetite, that desire. At the same time, I was really loving what I was doing on the side, so I thought okay, it’s time for a shift. It’s time to move into something that really speaks to my heart, where I can pour all of my effort and energy into in terms of content creation.

Where did you get the initial idea for your social media content?

As a female broadcast journalist, the questions you get are usually “Where’d you get that blouse? Who does your hair?” or “What did you wear?” Or “How do you create that makeup look?”

You know, it’s all the physical, right? And so I would, at the time, answer everybody’s questions via email. It was very time consuming. So one day just out of the blue, I took my cell phone and I did a reverse video. I thought, “Okay, I’m just gonna show everybody how I do my makeup.”

So I’m sitting in my bathroom with my phone, and I’m blending and whisking like okay, so this is the color and this is how to do it. And I created a little video and I posted it to my KPRC Facebook page. And I thought, “Should I have done that? I don’t know if I should have done that!” But I did it. And it was so funny, because the questions that followed, were, “Wow, this is so cool” … now what about this, and what about that?” I mean, there were thousands of them. I get more questions and comments about that stinkin’ makeup tutorial than anything I have ever said or done!

firm at the time had her own YouTube channel.

She’s young, millennial, and a beauty fashion blogger. When she saw my video, she told me I needed a YouTube channel. So after doing a little bit of research and digging and whatnot, I decided it might be a really cool place for me to be, and I could start putting a lot of this information and this content out there. There was so much more that I had to offer besides the smoky eye, but that’s how it all began.

A gal I knew who worked at my husband’s March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition

» 17

“I was a natural communicator; loved to write and express myself”

What is your philosophy on beauty and aging, especially as it relates to women in their 40s and 50s?

I would say it’s more of a full picture. It may have started with hair, makeup and wardrobe, but it’s really become about the whole woman. It’s about feeling good in your own skin. Yes, it’s about skin care and beauty, but also lifestyle, wellness, living your best life, relationships--all of that.

My platform is about serving and caring for the whole woman and letting her know we

are not forgotten. We are an incredibly important part of this segment of society. We are the spenders in this society. We are the largest-growing population in this society, and it’s time for companies and retailers to realize we don’t want to see a 20-yearold selling skincare. We want accurate representation, accurate faces, accurate lives, accurate bodies … and there’s been a magnificent shift in that area, where finally somebody’s paying attention to who we are, realizing we want information, and we want quality products.

I don’t know why people use the word antiaging. To me, it’s about pro-aging--to age gracefully, to age well, to be proactive in the choices we make and the products that are available. The thing is, every woman gets to decide what’s right and what’s best for her.

Whether it’s absolutely nothing at all, or maybe it’s taking little baby steps, and that’s

sufficient. Or maybe it’s a combination of skin cream and getting out of the sun and being diligent about your SPF, or maybe it’s a little bit more.

I love the fact there are so many options, and I think the neatest thing and the greatest gift we can all give ourselves is a judgment-free gift. Don’t judge yourself, and most certainly don’t judge another woman for what it is she chooses to do. We all have to walk our own walk, and I think it’s important we respect that within ourselves and each other.

Are there any specific beauty trends you’re seeing right now?

I always joke that once upon a time, you went from face cream to facelift, right? There was nothing in between. But the cosmetology industry has expanded to the point where there are so many things you can do. If you don’t want the full-on extreme, like our mothers did – you know, yank it and pull it

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tight and call it a day – there are so many other choices besides surgery, like lasers, fillers, and collagen boosters. I’m seeing a huge shift in what’s available in terms of injectables and new products on the market, like Sculptra, which actually causes your body to create more collagen.

So, what made you decide to write a book? How does it fit with the social media?

I kind of think of my social media as a way of bridging the gap between the Thursday YouTube videos and the book. It’s a continuum of the content and messaging. It came about because I had a lot of women who were starting to reach out to me and they would say, “It seems like you have so much to offer in a wide array of subjects. Have you ever thought about writing?” I would laugh and was like, oh, you’re funny. You know, between the news gig and the YouTube gig and parenting and stuff, like I really have time to write a book.

But I’ll never forget there was one time in church – it was in the fall of 2018 – and a gal sitting behind me in the service tapped me on

the shoulder and said, “You should write a book.” I’m a very strong believer in God, and I thought maybe he was speaking through her, so I figured okay, I’ll give it a shot.

Tell us more about your book.

The title of the book is called LIFE MAKEOVER: Embrace the bold, beautiful and blessed YOU. It’s about a woman grabbing hold of her life, where she is in the moment, and digging in her heels and saying I am worthy of time invested; I am worthy of feeling beautiful; I am worthy of feeling good in my own skin; I am a creative person. I am gifted with talents and ideas, and it’s important not to settle in a comfortable space, but to say, “You know what? I need to stretch; I need to grow; I need to expand myself. I need to be purpose driven.” The book is my life’s methodology of how I got there.

Buying or selling, I’m YOUR next door agent.

The model is sort of “beauty from the outside in” and that’s something I’ve coined in the book because I believe in the power of the visual, the power of the transformation. When you start seeing yourself differently, you want to start doing life differently. You’re thinking, “Okay, I’ve got this new look, I’ve got this new

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your God. And your belief system is your belief system. I’m not a proponent of a religion. I am a proponent of a faith system. My journey was a later-in-life epiphany for me. I was not a believer for most of my youth. But when I was in my 30s and trying to get pregnant, I had to go through in vitro fertilization, and I talk about that in the book.

It was during that time, out of the blue, I sort of felt compelled to pray. And it was a very foreign experience for me. I didn’t know what to do, how to do it, how to talk to God. I had no experience, so I just prayed and put it out there. I prayed for a child and for hope, and all of that. I found out a few days later I was pregnant.

So I continued my prayer journey. It was a slow burn, as I say in the book. It was not a zero to 60, but it was something that grew in my life. hairstyle, but maybe my wardrobe isn’t matching what I’ve got going on.” So you start dressing yourself differently. And then you start looking at your personal space, and you realize you should tackle some structure and organization. Or maybe you decide you should tackle how you approach food and exercise to have a more healthful, wellness-driven life.

I started to attend the church later, and I learned how important that conversation with God is and how important it is to offer gratitude in all times, the good times and the bad times. There’s always something to be thankful for. That spiritual journey was so important for me and completely changed my life, so I felt it was worthy of a chapter in the book.

The book also includes a spiritual component, right?

There is. I talk about my faith journey, and I talk about the importance of faith in two ways: faith in yourself and faith in

For more on Dominique and her new book, visit www.dominiquesachse.tv.

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rooke is a senior at Trinity High School and is the daughter of Lisa and Carl Kelley. Her activities include FBLA, Garden Club, yearbook, UIL events, and working at Trinity Pines Conference Center. Following graduation, Brooke plans to attend East Texas Baptist University to major in ministry and mental health. She hopes to become a Christian counselor and start her own practice.

March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition

23

Texas Talent Story by Amy Barnett Submitted Photos

24 Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition | March 2022

She is the Texas Country Music Association’s reigning Female Artist of the Year. Born in Bryan, raised in Columbus, and now calling College Station home, 25-year-old Morgan Ashley is a Texan through and through. She has taken the Texas Country Music Scene by storm and is proving you can be down to earth and still shoot for the stars. Postcards Magazine visited with Morgan about the FFA talent show that first sparked her interest in music, and the journey that led her to the big stage at Billy Bob’s Texas, where she accepted her award among veterans in the business – women she has looked up to for many years.

What was it like growing up in Columbus, Texas?

It was a small country town, and for as long as I can remember, I wanted a horse really bad. I grew up in 4-H and FFA. I did barrel racing, and we had a 4-H horse program. I pretty much did all the different programs – leather making, cake making, anything 4-H offered, and FFA as well. That’s kind of how I got introduced to music, in a way. One day I decided to do the FFA talent show. I was nervous to get up and talk in front of people, but for some reason, I thought I could get up there and sing.

So how did it go? What did you sing, and what was the crowd’s reaction?

I sang “Famous in a Small Town” by Miranda Lambert and “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus. It was like an overwhelming supportive crowd of my peers. I was so nervous, but it ended up being a very positive experience. There were other people in the talent show who played guitar, and I thought that was just the coolest thing ever, so I wanted to play, too. I had one in my room for several years, but

I never played it. So, I finally picked up a guitar and then started doing open mic nights and stuff within the next two months. Then I started playing shows and have been grinding at it ever since.

So, you were still in high school when you started doing open mics?

Yes, I was. I decided when I was a freshman to graduate high school in three years, so I picked up the guitar in the last year of school and had my first official show while I was still in high school at our little bar in town called Cantu’s – now it’s Blake Street.

That’s impressive. At what point did you realize you had the talent to take this further?

I took guitar lessons at Guitar Center in Katy, and my guitar teacher was young, in her twenties, and I was 17 or 18 at the time. She was an artist and pursuing music. She just really made me believe music was something I could pursue as my career. I actually went to college right out of high school and did one semester. Then, I March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition

»

25

decided to ask my parents if it would be okay for me to just work and play music. I was nervous. I thought it was going to be a whole drawn-out conversation, but it wasn’t.

They were on board. They were like “Yes, absolutely, work and play music.”

So, what came next?

I went to Nashville and played shows for about a year and a half and was just trying to hone in on who I was as an artist and trying to write songs. Writing songs didn’t come very easily to me at that point, and that was really important to me as an artist. I wrote songs when I was younger and knew it was in me. I recorded my first EP, which I didn’t promote to radio, but then my full album that I did, called “Karma,” is where my first radio single came from. That was February of 2018, and the song was “Your Girl.”

“Your Girl” did really well for a first single.

Yes. It was a Top 40 song on the Texas country music charts.

You’ve now had six Top 40 songs on the Texas Charts, and you are starting this year with a powerful girl anthem.

What is the story behind “Girl FYI?” “Girl FYI” basically came about because I dated a guy for about a year, but I thought he was possibly secretly seeing other girls. Finally, I realized what was going on and ended our relationship. But he continued a relationship with another girl, and I guess she didn’t know about me. So, I wrote a song letting her know, like, “Girl, FYI, he was with me last night and said that he loved me, so something’s not right here.” It’s a true story, and I wrote the song by myself.

What do you hope people feel when they hear this song?

I hope it can just empower people. The situation empowered me to write the song.

It was a step toward healing and getting over what happened. Hopefully, people relate to it.

I mean, at the same time, I hope they don’t; but I just want it to be like an anthem people can listen to and sing at the top of their lungs and feel empowered.

2021 was a great year for you! You took home two big awards and were up against some stiff competition.

First, how did you feel winning Best New Female Vocalist at the Texas Regional Radio Awards?

I was nominated in the spring. I was so nervous and excited. I wanted it so bad! That event is so cool, too. I got to sit at a table with Jon Wolf and his team and Clay Hollis, and just a table away was Randy Rogers. It’s just such a cool place and award show to hang out. Then to hear them call my name – it was definitely surprising! I was ecstatic.

And then, in November, you won big at the Texas Country Music Awards – Female Artist of the Year! What was that night like?

I was literally over the moon! I didn’t think there was any possible way because of the other amazing females in the category. I was really excited, and it was crazy to get up there and accept the award. I thought I was going to see everybody’s face, but I couldn’t see a single thing. That definitely made me nervous,

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but I was happier than I possibly could have imagined.

I was there that night, and to see the other female finalists excited for you really speaks to the camaraderie you all have. How would you describe your relationship with other female artists in Texas?

Everybody has been nothing but nice to me, and they’ve supported me. It just makes me the happiest person in the world to be able to text Bri Bagwell and say like, “Hey, you were such a big inspiration to me. I am so excited that I won this award, but oh my goodness do I look up to you!” It’s the same with Sarah Hobbs, Kylie Frey, and Ariel Hutchins. We really have great relationships and are truly excited to see each other succeed.

where I’m always doubting and second guessing myself. So, to win an award like that was definitely an affirming thing, and it has helped me push forward in a positive way.

Recently, I would say sushi. Love a good, spicy California roll. It’s a new thing I have been liking to eat a lot.

If you had to describe yourself, what kind of artist are you?

Best place to shop?

What kind of artist am I? I’m a wild card. That’s been like my most “iconic” song so far, and it’s about me. I have revenge songs, sassy, quirky, upbeat songs. I’m just a person who wants to tell the truth and have a good time and express the crazy things that happen and embrace the weird quirkiness.

I love it! So, let’s wrap up with a quick game called “5 Bests with Morgan Ashley.”

Best country song ever?

As the reigning Female Artist of the Year, you must know you made the right decision to chase your music dreams.

I definitely go through these periods of time

That’s such a hard question, but “Famous in a Small Town” by Miranda Lambert seems to me like the perfect Texas country music song! And I feel like I can 100% resonate with it like so many others being from a small town.

I am all about getting the basics from places like Old Navy and Target, but I love boutique shopping. That’s where I always find the cutest stuff!

Best thing on Netflix?

New Girl! My absolute favorite show! I’ve watched it so many times.

Best advice you’ve ever been given?

To always strive to be the hardest working person in the room!

Don’t miss your opportunity to hear Morgan Ashley live. Visit morganashleyofficial.com to find out when Morgan will be playing a show near you! Whether it’s a full-band show or acoustic, you are in for a real treat!

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March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition

27

Vet Connect:

By Kim VanWagner, D.V.M.

Cancer in Pets Cancer can be a scary topic to read and think about. Thankfully, the advances in early recognition, diagnosis, and treatment allow pets today to have a better chance of being successfully treated than they did before.

Unfortunately, cancer/neoplasia is as common in our pets as it is in people. The AVMA states approximately 1 in 4 dogs will, at some stage in their life, develop neoplasia. Almost half of dogs over the age of 10 will develop cancer.

Currently, there is less information about the rate of cancer in cats.

What exactly is cancer versus neoplasia?

Neoplasia is the uncontrolled, abnormal growth of cells or tissues in the body that can be benign or malignant. Benign neoplasms tend to grow slowly; displace, but do not tend to invade, the surrounding body tissues; and do not spread throughout the body.

Malignant neoplasms, on the other hand, can be unpredictable and grow at various rates

(sometimes rapidly); invade the tissues around them; and spread, or metastasize, to other parts of the body. The word “tumor” or “mass” is often used to describe the actual swelling or other physical appearance of a neoplasm.

The word “cancer” is often confused with neoplasia, but only malignant neoplasms are truly cancers.

Cancer detection today often starts with a thorough physical exam by your vet and includes a series of detailed questions.

Additional tests, such as x-rays, blood tests, and ultrasounds, may be necessary to confirm the suspicion of cancer. For most masses, cytology - withdrawing some cells from a mass to examine under a microscope - can sometimes quickly provide basic information about the tumor type, and can confirm a diagnosis for certain types of neoplasms. For many tumors, a biopsy – taking a tissue sample from the neoplasm to examine under a microscope – is

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often necessary to confirm the diagnosis and help determine if the neoplasm is benign or malignant. Additional cytology or biopsies of other tissues, such as lymph nodes, may be necessary to determine how far a malignant neoplasm (cancer) has spread. Some would be surprised to hear, but as in humans, advanced imaging such as computed tomography (CT) scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or positron emission tomography (PET) scan can also improve the understanding of the tumor’s location and possible treatment options.

Veterinary oncologists, specialists who have obtained additional training beyond veterinary school and certified by the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) in oncology, are available to refer to and consult with your vet. Veterinary oncology is a growing specialty today in vet medicine. Oncologists work with your vet to provide the best care for your pet with neoplasia.

More recent advances in veterinary medicine now allow for cancer screening and early detection. There are currently two companies (PetDX and Nu.Q) that offer blood tests to screen for canine cancer. A cancer blood test sounds crazy, but the technology is here! They are recommended as screening tests in older dogs (>8 years) and for those considered at-risk breeds. While these tests are kind of exciting, they are very new. The PetDx evaluates for genomic mutations. Nu.Q evaluates nucleosomes in the blood which can be associated with cancer. At this time, these tests are limited and not able to determine the exact kind of cancer, but further diagnostics should help determine that. The accumulation of alterations in DNA or genome causes cancer. A technology called next-generation sequencing can identify and sequence little fragments of DNA that are free-floating in the bloodstream. If a unique signature of cancer is found in those fragments, that is indicative of malignant tumor in the body, since those changes do not exist in healthy cells. The technology is similar to prenatal testing that screens for Down’s syndrome and other chromosomal abnormalities. This noninvasive blood screening can look for specific abnormalities in DNA that can indicate the likely presence of cancer.

Your local veterinarian and team would be glad to visit with you if you have further questions or concerns about cancer and your pets.

Milestones

Happy 60th Anniversary to Dee & Laura Carson!

Happy 24th Anniversary to Cruz & Alicia Solis

Happy 20th Anniversary to Chris & Janna Davis

March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition

29

What’s Cookin’ Baked Cowboy Dip Ingredients Cowboy Dip: 12 oz hot Italian sausage links, casings removed 2 (8 oz) pkgs cream cheese, at room temperature 1 cup sour cream 4 oz sharp Cheddar cheese, grated 2 cups frozen sweet corn, thawed and drained 1 (14 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes with green chiles 1 (4 oz) can diced Hatch green chiles ½ cup diced fresh jalapeño peppers ½ cup sliced green onions 1 tsp kosher salt ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper 1 pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste Topping: 2 Tbs grated sharp Cheddar cheese 1 pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste 1 tsp sliced green onion, or to taste

Directions Step 1: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees.

Step 2: Place sausages in a dry pan over medium heat until they start to sizzle. Use a spoon or flat wooden spatula to break them up as they cook. Continue to cook until browned and crumbly, 10 to 12 minutes. Remove from the heat. Drain grease if desired.

Step 3: Combine cream cheese, sour cream, 4 ounces grated Cheddar, thawed corn, cooked sausage, fire-roasted tomatoes with chiles, Hatch chiles, jalapeño peppers, green onions, salt, pepper, and cayenne in a large bowl; mix until thoroughly combined. Transfer into a baking dish and smooth out the top. Top with remaining Cheddar, and cayenne.

Step 4: Place the baking dish on a sheet pan and bake in the center of the preheated oven until cheese is melted and dip is bubbling around the outside, about 30 minutes.

Step 5: Sprinkle green onions over top before serving.

Chef’s Notes: Any kind of melty cheese will work in place of Cheddar. You can use regular diced tomatoes (without chiles) if you want.

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Business Focus Story by Claudia Kirkwood Photos by Tom Miller

Put Your Mind at Ease Call

EASCO!

Since 1983, Easco has provided quality heating and cooling systems and services that have given peace of mind to homeowners and businessowners alike. Owners Clyde and Alena Tauriainen are proud of the company they have built, and work hard to offer the best in service, sales, and repair of residential and commercial heating and cooling systems. Improving the quality of workplace and living environments is also accomplished through their extensive knowledge in the field of building science.

Founded by Clyde, the company has grown to include three locations, with the main office in Willis and pilot offices in Huntsville and The Woodlands.

Left to Right: Mackenzie, Faith, Alena, Clyde, Caleb, Judah, Joshua

Easco sells Lennox, Mitsubishi Electric, and Armstrong comfort systems for both residential sites and commercial sites and will service and repair all makes and models of air conditioning and heating systems.

Their technicians receive “hands-on” training with a dedicated training facility, as well as manufacturer factory training and amazing High Tech Virtual Reality. Technicians are encouraged not to view this as “just a job,” but as a career path where excellence and longevity can be attained.

Easco is a member of Texas Air Conditioning Contractors Association (TACCA) and Nexstar, both groups promoting excellence and best practices. To be an AC contractor, a business must have an airconditioning license holder. Clyde and sons Caleb and Joshua each hold this license and participate in additional training on an on-going basis. Technicians are registered with the state of Texas, have had a background check, and are certified to handle refrigerants.

You will be fully informed of the findings and will have options for repair or replacement, only if needed, with all costs detailed upfront.

Minor repairs can be taken care of at the time, or if the situation is more involved, an appointment will be scheduled convenient to you.

For more information on the services and agreements offered, a call to Easco will provide you with up-to-date information.

Is air quality a concern in your home or business? Is stuffy air, moisture condensation on your windows, or increased allergy symptoms while indoors a problem? Easco technicians are knowledgeable on building science and issues that affect air quality. Dirty air ducts, poor air circulation, and high humidity levels are among some of the common problems that can keep you sneezing. It may be time for an air duct cleaning or other solution to ensure your employees and loved ones--young, old and in-between—work and live in the healthiest environment possible. Signs your air ducts need cleaning include:

For almost 40 years, Easco has been pleased to offer service any time day or night. Phones are answered in-person and, whether getting information about products and services or relaying an emergency situation, Easco will respond quickly and efficiently to handle the request.

•

Possible mold

•

Insects or rodents in the ductwork

•

Dust coming from the supply registers

•

Black debris outside the vent registers

To keep your HVAC systems in good and safe working condition, Easco recommends you purchase a “planned service agreement” which provides pre-season bi-annual checks on your system. These check-ups are more than just a brief inspection, but will be a hands-on, comprehensive examination of your system to:

•

Ensure that your systems are working properly

•

Eliminate the fear of electrical fire or carbon monoxide issues

•

Check the age and type of refrigerant your system uses

32 Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition | March 2022

Left to Right: Austin, Jeremy, Eric, Melvin, Matt, Ben, Josh, Clyde, Caleb, Brian

Training the next generation: Joshua, Judah, Clyde

Facts to know: •

Many colds, flus and respiratory illnesses are contracted indoors

•

Children breathe three times faster and tend to absorb more pollutants and toxic gases, VOCs, and vapors than adults

•

Our airtight homes and buildings trap indoor pollutants contributing to illness

•

Indoor air can be purified by investing in a High Efficiency Air Cleaner and a UVC Purifier

The team at Easco can work with you to provide the right solution to your air quality issues. Whether that means duct-cleaning, installing an air cleaner, installing ventilation systems to help your home “breathe,” or retrofitting an air scrubber onto your existing AC system, they will find the problem and offer solutions that will significantly improve the air quality in your home or work environment. They recommend and install the best brands to bring you the highest standards in air quality available:

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According to Clyde, it is important to understand building science, and they have positioned themselves as the expert in this area. Tighter foam construction and stronger windows change the airflow in residential and commercial sites, and a building needs a healthy air exchange. As he says, “For every action, there is a reaction.” And he states, “We have done and continue to do a lot of research and continuing education in this area.”

Tamika

Melissa & Alena

Faith

Clyde related a recent call they received from a local library with a potential disaster on their hands.

Due to high humidity and poor air circulation, the archives room was beginning to experience the presence of mold and mildew, bringing about the inevitable loss of many treasured resources.

The situation was corrected with the installation of ventilating dehumidifiers and the formation of a better air exchange. The archives were saved. This same type of problem could be realized in any type of storage area, especially one that may involve the storage of fabrics, quilts, and other heirlooms.

Are rising energy costs alarming to you? An Easco technician will evaluate your residential or commercial environment and offer solutions that provide the most efficient and effective heating and cooling plan for your space. At home, if you are heating or cooling your entire house during the nighttime hours, you may find that a ductless system can be installed in your sleeping area to cut down on energy costs during those hours. Other areas to be considered may include:

•

Rooms and areas that are hard to heat and cool

•

Sunrooms, patios, and garages

•

Hobby, game rooms, bedrooms and indoor pool areas that are used on an occasional basis

Whatever your energy concerns are, a call to Easco for a prompt and comprehensive evaluation is available.

COLLEGE OF ARTS & MEDIA SPRING 2022

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Art BFA SENIOR EXHIBITION March 3 - 5 Satellite Gallery Free Admission

Art SIGGRAPH EXHIBITION March 10 - 12 Satellite Gallery Free Admission

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School of Music SPRING FLING: A SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA CONCERT March 5 | 7:30 p.m.

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JAZZ ENSEMBLES CONCERT March 10 | 7:30 p.m.

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Theatre & Music Theatre A DOCTOR IN SPITE OF HIMSELF Molière, Adapted by Christopher Bayes and Steven Epp March 24 - 26 | 7:30 p.m.

March 26 | Matinee | 2 p.m.

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FOR TICKETS & INFORMATION shsutickets.com | tickets@shsu.edu | 936.294.2339 To view our full list of events, visit shsu.edu/CAM

34 Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition | March 2022

Easco takes pride in their industry knowledge and business practices and cares about their customers. “Easco is not just a team, but a culture,” states Clyde. “We take pride in offering our employees a stable and fun work culture.” According to Clyde, each employee is allowed a monthly “date night” with free babysitting provided by the company. This is a way of showing appreciation to employees and makes the point that family is important. The company was founded upon Judeo-Christian values and, as Clyde firmly expresses, “God deserves all the glory.” The Easco team stands ready to provide your home or business with the most outstanding and current HVAC systems and services available. They live in the communities in which they work and value their friends and customers.

p

Put your mind at ease…

Clyde W. Tauria Owner & Founder

Call Easco!

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• V-Twin Cycle Services & Repairs 808 W. Montgomery (FM 1097) Willis, TX 77378

(936) 890-4707

Email: 808@willis-kwikkar.com

www.willis-kwikkar.com March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition

35

The Garden Post

By Kim Bius

What’s New for Spring 2022 Hybridization is a huge market, and programs such as the Southern Living Collection, First Edition and the Proven Winner Collection are bringing new and exciting patented plants to the market by the hundreds.

Gardeners may ask, “Why all this hybridization”? We want the plant to be smaller, bloom longer, have variegated foliage, a longer blooming season, or different colors for blooms. Hybridizers are working hard, along with marketing, to find what the consumer wants and is willing to pay for.

These new plants are patented, and a royalty will be paid to the producer for a period of 7 years, so there is a reason behind the higher price tag.

As a plant buyer and broker since the 80s, I know quality, value, and production are essential in bringing the best value to the customer, and the following varieties should do just that.

From First Edition, Distylium is an evergreen compact shrub that is a great alternative to boxwood.

Cinnamon Girl® has plum-purple new growth which turns blue-green as the leaves mature. The small leaves and compact growth give this plant a more refined look than

other Distylium. Has compact growth (3’x3’), is not particular on soils, is very cold tolerant, deer proof, and has tiny red blooms in the winter months.

Crimson Fire Loropetalum by First Edition, with red to burgundy foliage year-round in a dwarf (2.5’x2.5’) shrub, with reddish fuchsia-colored blooms spring till fall.

The azalea dwarf (2.5’x2.5’) Perfecto Mundo in Double Pink is one of my favorites by Proven Winners. This innovative series from plant breeder Dr. Tom Ranney of NCSU combines peerless performance with lace bug resistance, a pest that threatens azaleas in many areas. Perfecto Mundo Double Pink is a neat, rounded shrub covered with double pink blooms in spring, but then after a brief rest, begins blooming again in mid-summer and continues through frost.

Double Play Blue Kazoo spirea from Proven Winner is a dwarf (2.5’x 2.5’). The plant displays bluish-green new growth with white blooms.

Double Play Candy Corn spirea will be a huge hit. This dwarf shrub (2.5’x2.5’) displays new growth that is red, then yellow to orange with hot pink blooms. As with all spirea, these plants are deciduous.

Monday - Saturday 10 am - 7 pm Sunday 11 am - 6 pm

McCAFFETY ELECTRIC CALL US For All Your Wiring Needs Huntsville: (936) 295-2831 Conroe: (936) 539-5411 Licensed • Bonded • Insured

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Visit our lighting showroom at 1711 Sycamore or visit us online at

www.mccaffetyelectric.com

36 Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition | March 2022

What Are You Reading?

Sara Bartee reading

Fast Falls the Night

AUTO REPAIR

By Julia Keller

Stacey Shirley reading

The CrossShaped Life

By Jeff Kennon

936-701-5236 Wanda Bedenbaugh reading

In the Eye of the Storm

By Max Lucado

Tell us what you’re reading!

PostcardsLive.com

Experienced.

Skilled.

Honest.

Helpful 11631 FM830 • Willis, TX 77318

toyomastersautorepair.com March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition

37

“Seens” from our World

When that midlife crisis hits, but you’re on a budget!

Sounds like Texas when you have a freeze warning issued while temp is in the 80s!

Seen by: PC Staff

Seen by: Janice Rogers

We want to see what you’ve seen!

When you see the unusual, funny or absurd, break out your camera, take a picture, and submit to us with a description at:

PostcardsLive.com

THE MEMORIES OF OUR LOVED ONES ARE STORED IN OUR HEART AND SOUL They are forever and eternal.

shmfh.com 10129 FM 1097 • Willis 936-890-0454

20850 Eva St. • Montgomery 936-597-7300

Your hometown experts in celebrating life!

38 Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition | March 2022

Your lucky day!

Cookies • Desserts • Keto • Gluten Free • Full Florist • Weddings • Birthday Parties Funerals • Flower Specials • More

15% Discount on:

John McKinley, Agent

• Tuesdays for First Responders • Wednesdays for Military • Thursdays for Medical Staff • Fridays for Teachers 806 N. Loop 336 W. • Conroe (936) 760-3499

405 N. Loop 336 W Conroe, TX 77301 M 713.598.5984 O 936.756.4461 E jmckinley@txfb-ins.com

floral@bakersbouquet.com bakery@bakersbouquet.com

MON0221

Service Area

Suduko Marketplace see answers on page 31 Easy Sudoku

9

5

4 6 9 8 3 1 2

1 6 5 2 7 4 9 6 3 5 1 1 3 3 4 5 2 1 5 4 1 9 8 3 4

Call or Text 713-570-6095

Magnolia Conroe Montgomery North Houston New Waverly Huntsville Willis Spring Tomball Pinehurst The Woodlands Shenandoah Cypress Klein

We consider the whole picture.

Our firm considers your entire financial picture, both business and personal, with a down-to-earth approach that is both practical and prudent.

Neuwirth Slaughter & Associates, L.L.P. Certified Public Accountants

Dewitt Oleinik, CPA

168 Col. Etheredge Blvd.

Suite B Huntsville, TX 77340

www.MyCPAsaid.com

936-291-8500

Brian Slaughter, CPA

Do you owe the IRS $$$ Chester Crawford, EA Since 1981

chestercrawford.com Income Tax • IRS Representation • Insurance • Notary Public 100 Hwy 190 East (936) 291-1887 (Direct) Huntsville, TX 77340 (936) 661-0692 (Cell) Email: onecdcrawford@aol.com (936) 291-1789 (Fax) National Association of Enrolled Agents • National Society of Tax Professionals

Receive one-on-one service www.myuhcagent.com/Lauri.Wenzel 832-244-1973, TTY 711 Fax: 832-201-5359 March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition

39

CALENDAR

March

11-12

Thru 20 Houston

shinerheritagequilters.org

Shiner

Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo

rodeohouston.com

Spring Into Quilting Show

12 Huntsville

Houston “Hamilton”

houston.broadway.com

Master Gardener Spring Plant Sale facebook.com/walkercountymastergardeners

12-13 Huntsville

Thru 25 Corsicana Texas Artists Invitational Show and Sale

pearcemuseum.com

Rusty, Chippy, Vintage, and Repurposed Show huntsvilleantiqueshow.com

14 Montgomery

2

Huntsville Sam Houston’s Birthday and Texas Independence Day Celebration

huntsvilletexas.com

3-5

6th Annual ATKH Charity Golf Tournament allthekingshorses.org

17 Sugar Land Peppa Pig’s Adventure!

College Station

smartfinancialcentre.net

“Detroit ‘67”

mscopas.org

17-Apr 3 Round Top

4-5

Spring Antiques Show

Navasota

exploreroundtop.com

Texas Birthday Bash

texasbirthdaybash.com

19 Conroe

5-6

Greater Conroe Arts Festival

Conroe

greaterconroeartsalliance.com

Home & Outdoor Living Show

Galveston

texwoodshows.com

“An Officer and a Gentleman”

Galveston The Texas Tenors in Concert

thegrand.com

8-9

thegrand.com

20 Willis Free Concert at Calvary Road Baptist

College Station “An Officer and a Gentleman”

mscopas.org

11

crbcwillistx.org

22-Apr 3 Houston “Come From Away”

Corsicana

tuts.com

Crystal Gayle in Concert

corsicanapalace.com Due to concerns over the spread of coronavirus, some events may have schedule changes. Please make sure to check the event website, social media, or call ahead to confirm an event is still taking place if you are interested in attending.

24 – May 26 (Thursdays) Conroe Spring Series Weekly Sailboat Races lakeconroesailing.com

24-26 Huntsville “A Doctor in Spite of Himself” shsutickets.com

25-26 Galveston Lyle Lovett and his Acoustic Group in Concert thegrand.com

25-27

WATERCOLOR

PAINTING LESSONS Wonders of Watercolor - Made Easy - Come join the fun

Specializing in the beginner artists.

Evening Classes Begin February 8, 2022 • 6:00 pm Ongoing classes, join anytime.

Daytime Classes every Monday at 1:00 pm Ongoing classes, join anytime.

Acrylic Paints on Canvas lessons available Acrylic Abstract painting lessons available

Willis National Youth Theater Presents “Peter Pan” nationalyouththeater.org/peter-pan-2

25-Apr 2 Huntsville Walker County Fair and Rodeo walkercountyfair.com

26

Conroe Art League Gallery

127 Simontin St • Downtown Conroe • Across from courthouse

Email CarrieAllbritton127@hotmail.com for more information and supply list

Conroe Angel Reach Road Rally/Scavenger Hunt angelreach.org

Huntsville

SAM HOUSTON STATE UNIVERSITY

COLLEGE OF ARTS & MEDIA PRESENTS

CAM ARTIST SERIES

Herb Festival at the Wynne Home texasthymeunit.org

26-27 Conroe TexasFest Houston texasfesthouston.com

28-29 College Station “Fiddler on the Roof” mscopas.org

31-Apr 10 San Antonio Fiesta San Antonio

fiestasanantonio.org

MARCH 25, 2022 7:30 P.M. | RECITAL HALL, GPAC SECURE YOUR SEAT TODAY! shsutickets.com | 936.294.2339

March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition

41

Mustard Seed Moments

by Wes Altom

The Power of “Not Only” and “But Also” We often shortchange and underestimate our Creator. Deep down, we know we are blessed, but our simple minds sometimes are just too concrete; we frequently gloss over both the vast enormity and the fine detail of the awesome nature of God, as concerns the messages for us in His word and the specific blessings he favors us with.

Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego being cast into the fiery furnace in Daniel 3. NOT ONLY does scripture tell us God protected them from the flames, BUT ALSO when they came out, they didn’t even smell of smoke. God does big things in big ways. How does reflecting on this magnify our impression of this event?

Try this:

Next, consider our sin. We all know Christ died so we can be forgiven, but we still struggle with guilt, forgiving ourselves, and accepting fully His grace. We learn from Micah 7 that NOT ONLY does God forgive us, BUT ALSO He “casts all our sin into the depths of the sea.” How comforting is it, as we daily struggle with sin, to be reinforced by how immeasurable His grace is?

“NOT ONLY did God do ‘x’ for me, BUT ALSO He did ‘y’ for me.

“NOT ONLY did God do ‘this’ in that Bible story, BUT ALSO He did ‘this’.

Here are two powerful examples: First, think about the times you have been around something burning…a campfire, burning leaves, someone smoking, or even a barbecue pit or restaurant. You simply can’t be near without the odor of the smoke permeating your person and clothing. Now consider the story of

Let’s NOT ONLY strive to examine our lives and His word with new eyes, BUT ALSO, in doing so, resolve to improve our understanding of the magnitude of our God and all He does for us.

STAGE RIGHT OF TEXAS 2022 - 2023

Funded in part by a grant from the City of Conroe.

Sept. 9 - 25, 2022

Feb. 10 - 26, 2023

Oct. 21 - Nov. 6, 2022

Apr. 7 - 23, 2023

For Season Tickets and Audition Information Visit the website: stage-right.org 42 Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition | March 2022

Dec. 2 - 18, 2022

Jul. 7 - 23, 2023 All performances a the Crighton Theatre 234 N. Main St. Conroe, TX 77301

Call 936-441-7469

Mark Soveral, A.B.O.C. National Board Certified Licensed Optician 26 years of experience

Dr. Bonnie J. Cameron Glaucoma Specialist Pediatric Specialist Therapeutic Optometrist

936.448.1200 15260 Hwy 105 West • Suite 127 • Montgomery, TX 77356

Located in the WaterPoint Marina and Shopping Center next to CVS

March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Lake Conroe Edition

43

Built for you by you. #1 SUPER DUTY DEALER IN THE NATION 5 YEARS RUNNING

BillFickFord.com 737 I-45 South Huntsville, TX 77340

Exit 113 Southbound on 45 or Exit 114 Northbound off I-45