POSTCARDS MAGAZINE - Piney Woods - June 2023

14 Do You Know?

David Langley

30 Local Treasures

Blueberry Pickin’

40 Texas Treasures

George H. W. Bush Library

50 Just for Fun Diggin’ It!

74 Business Focus Sullivan Classic Homes

FAVORITES

20 Questions -27

Awesome Apps -83

Community Calendar -88

Conundrum -56

Creative Corner -81

Dear Gabby -21

From Our Readers -6

From the Mouth of Babes -87

Giggles & Grins -38

Glorious Grandkids -84

Kidding Around -70

Let’s Celebrate -12

Living with Children -82

Medical Matters -36

Milestones -61

Mustard Seed Moments -90

Pet Pals -48

Publisher’s Post -9

Puzzle Solutions -28

“Seens” from our World -22

Snapshots -20

Star Students -62

Sudoku Marketplace -57

Teachers Touching Tomorrow -13

The Garden Post -24

The Grands -85

Things My Granddaddy Said -26

Vet Connect -39

What Are You Reading -10

What’s Cookin’? -64

Wildlife Wonders -86

Your trusted electric provider for over 80 years now o ers you high-speed fiber internet.

We’ve spent the last two years building a strong and reliable fiber backbone. Now, every MidSouth member has the opportunity to sign up for fiber internet.

MidSouth Fiber is bold and fast. With unlimited upload and download speeds up to 1 gig, MidSouth subscribers also enjoy:

• no contracts

• no data caps

• 24/7 tech support and outage restoration

Jump on the broadband wagon and join our growing fiber community at midsouthfiber.com

Cover Photo by Courtney Ehlert Postcards 2022 Photo Contest 3rd Place-Local Living

Puzzle Frustrations

I love doing the puzzles, such as appearing on page 71 in the April 2023 Piney Woods edition of Postcards Magazine

It just about drove me crazy when I could not find the word “resurrection” in the puzzle. Can you please tell me where it appears. Thank you.

Adrian M. Wisting

Speaker Appreciation

Thank you to Karen for speaking to all of us at the Celebration Group of Trinity. It was a sincere blessing. Your example shines in your publication each month.

Lynn Copley & the Board of the Trinity Celebration ladies

Editor’s Note:

Unfortunately, this was an error on our part. The answer appeared in the bottom line of the puzzle, which was inadvertently cropped off and not visible on the printed page. We apologize and thank all readers who brought this to our attention.

Great Effort

I want you to know that I fully appreciate the great amount of effort that goes into these monthly publications. You and your staff are truly amazing!

Stephanie Livingston, CPA

what he really wants!

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 Huntsville, New Waverly, Midway, Madisonville, Riverside and Trinity.

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

Nancy Jolly

Jennifer Abbrat

Kent Holder

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.

© 2023 by Altom Consulting & Marketing, Inc., All rights reserved.

Failing to Maintain My Lane... and My Sanity!

I got stopped for drunk driving. Not lately. It was actually many years ago. I was recently reminded of the incident when I saw a sticker on the back of a “mom car” that said, “I’m not drunk, I’m passing snacks and whoopin’ butt.” (Okay, it didn’t say butt--but for the purposes of this column, let’s say it did.)

As I giggled, the memory came of the time I was stopped for suspected intoxication. What had really happened was Wes and I had gone out to dinner with the children, and we had met at the restaurant in two separate vehicles. The restaurant had an ice cream machine, and both children had ice cream cones as we left. Our home was about 8 minutes from the eatery, but it didn’t take 4 minutes until there were screams of, “It’s melting!” coming from the backseat.

As I tried to pass napkins back and quell the turmoil while still driving, I suddenly noticed red and blue flashing lights in my rearview mirror. Sigh.

At the time, Wes was a police officer. In fact, he was the supervisor of the person who was pulling me over. I knew Wes was behind me, so I was sure he would also stop to help me explain. He did not. He smiled and waved as he drove by. I did not return the wave. Or the smile.

When the officer walked up to my car, I was relieved to see she was also a neighbor of ours (which meant to me, at least, she might not make me do a field sobriety test on the side of the road with two screaming toddlers and puddles of ice cream melting into the carpet of the minivan). I explained the situation. She stifled her laughter, smiled, and encouraged me to hurry home...at the speed limit and between the lines.

During this season of Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, I wish you all the best. Moms, just keep it between the lines--and Dads, be ready to clean the ice cream out of the van if you don’t stop to help.

Until next time,

THANK YOU!

Walker County Fair & Rodeo

Wishes to thank all the 2023 Youth Auction Buyers and Add-On Contributors. Your support for the youth of Walker County is greatly appreciated!

Let’s Celebrate!

This Month’s Business Anniversaries:

1974 Celebrating 49 years

Haney Paschal Romoser

See their ad on page 43

2000 Celebrating 23 years

DBL Real Estate

See their ad on page 45

2012 Celebrating 11 years

Perri Dermatology

See their ad on page 7

2017 Celebrating 5 years

United Healthcare Medicare Solutions

See their ad on page 59

2022 Celebrating 1 year

Woodbine Inn & Restaurant

See their ad on page 10

Teachers Touching Tomorrow

Honoring teachers who work with our kids day in and day out. They go above and beyond, and really do “Touch Tomorrow.”

Nominate a special teacher today by going online: www.PostcardsLive.com. Those chosen for publication are awarded a gift card to 1836 Steakhouse.

Sponsored by:

Stacy Bennett

Madisonville Junior High School Language Arts

Nominated by Kristen Tolliver

“She never let me think bad about myself or give up on myself. She inspired me to keep going every day.”

What Constitutes an American?

“Not color nor race nor religion. Not the pedigree of his family nor the place of his birth. Not the coincidence of his citizenship. Not his social status nor his bank account. Not his trade nor his profession. An American is one who loves justice and believes in the dignity of man. An American is one who will fight for his freedom and that of his neighbor. An American is one who will sacrifice property; ease and security in order that he and his children may retain the right of free men.”

~Harold Ickes, Secretary of the Interior, May 1941

This Memorial Day (May 29) and Flag Day (June 14th), more than any other time in history since World War II, we thankfully remember those who have fought, who are fighting, and who will continue to fight to preserve our liberty and the right of all people to live in freedom.

As we pause to give thanks on this holiday, let’s fly our flags a little more proudly and keep alive the spirit of American patriotism that is burning bright in us today.

Brian B. Smith, CFP®

Paula Armstrong

Riley W. Smith

Bryan M. Masten, CFP®

Ally Grounds

Do You Know?

Story by Claudia Kirkwood

Photos by Tom Miller

David Langley

GRIT. FORTITUDE. DETERMINATION.

These inspiring traits are portrayed in the life of David Langley of Huntsville, Texas. Let’s meet David and discover how he has met adversity head-on and prevailed.

David, please share some information regarding your childhood.

I was born in Huntsville in the old hospital which later burned, leaving no records behind. All the records were destroyed, but fortunately, the newspaper contained an announcement that gave an interesting detail about my March 17, 1948, birth. I weighed 12 ounces at birth! And survived! From early on, God made it apparent that He wanted me here, and I am so grateful for that. In another odd twist during my infancy, my parents thought I had passed away and summoned a hearse to take me to the funeral home. Fortunately, the hearse driver noticed some movement and took me to the hospital instead. Again, God’s gracious hand was upon me.

During my early years, I contracted polio; as a result, I never crawled much at all. In fact, my method of getting around was accomplished by scooting on my bottom here and there. I only began walking at age five. By this time, my parents and grandparents doted on me, concerned about my health and well-being, as did my schoolteacher at Pine Prairie School, Mrs. Scarborough. She

would allow me to sleep in class and then would help my mom out by taking me home for the weekends. This was during my first, second, and third grades of school. She always treated me in a special way. God placed caring people in my life to help me through these early years. Of course, this came with some perks, too! My two aunts, who lived on what is now Sycamore Street,

would each cook a pie for me on weekends. I would have an entire chocolate pie to eat on Friday, and an entire chocolate pie to eat on Saturday. Good memories! I’ve been 6’4” since I was twelve years old. I’m sure those chocolate pies helped!

I stuttered, too. I had a bad stutter and had to have family members or friends help me communicate for the first couple of years in

Born at a mere 12 ounces and growing to 6’4”, local man overcomes amazing number of health issues to live a full life.

G2 Construction Llc.

Serving Walker County and surrounding areas for over 23 years

school. And then, about the middle of my senior year, it was as though a switch had been flipped; I lost the stutter in a moment of time and have been able to speak plainly since. The stutter returned only for one brief time, and that was recently after Covid.

You have persevered through several conditions. Please share experiences you have had as you got older.

When I was 13 or 14 years of age, I hauled hay and worked at a Conoco station that was in the downtown area near the current Donut Wheel location. My boss started a tire business, Sonic Tires, where I also worked. At age 26, I worked on a survey crew for Champion Paper for two years. We would go all over Texas and survey Champion land. I was transferred to the wood mill and then relocated to work at their wood mill in Cleveland, Texas. I worked there for twelve years. One day, I worked a half day in the office and the other half of the day with the men in the mill yard. I was driving a truck and got out to readjust a stack of wood that was about to topple. During this effort, I suffered a severe

David in 1967 when he graduated.

David with his grandson Tyler, great grandson Brentley, & son Michael

back injury which required major surgery and put me out of work for a year. After this time, I was sent to work at Champion’s Moscow, Texas, location. They wanted me to set up and supervise the woodyard. I knew all the systems and could run it with ease. This job also required a great amount of driving; after three months, I re-injured my back, this time more severely. An operation took place that required fusing my hip bone to my back. No pain medication was given, and for the next seven days and nights, the pain was so horrific that I prayed to die. For each of those seven days, they would pick me up out of bed to get me on my feet, but the pain was so intense it caused me to black out immediately. Finally, on the eighth day, I was able to stand and start to walk, and then was dismissed to go home on day ten. After being off work for two years, I was finally ready to re-enter the Champion workforce, but they closed the company. At that time, my doctors felt that I could not work again and sent me to the Social Security Administration office to set up disability payments. But I surprised them all by getting a desk job for the City of Huntsville, and I worked there for twentythree years before retiring in 2007.

You are not a quitter! Do you still suffer from this intense pain?

I had three more fusion surgeries from 20092010, and yes, I have continued to have pain on and off during the past thirty-four years. I’m sad to say that I’ve had three friends who have suffered through similar pain and took their own lives. God has given me the strength and outlook to push through this suffering and live for His glory.

A major blessing came my way when I met Dr. Stephen Sims. He has a pain management practice in Huntsville and has played an enormous part in easing my back pain, first through administering shots to my spine, and then by implanting a stimulator box in my back in 2021. This immediately relieved me of all the pain. I now have zero pain, a fact that I never believed would happen. I’m so thankful to him.

Additional medical issues have required Cochlear implants and a pacemaker. A malformed left clavicle necessitated moving

the location of the pacemaker to the right side of my chest and rerouting all the wires, a painful procedure to be sure. I’m always grateful that my wife Dianna is there for me. I kid her about the fact that she could gather up all the remotes for these medical systems in my body and create havoc for me. I’d better be nice to her! We’ve been married for twenty-five glorious years, and she has been by my side through the best and the worst of times. There seems to be no end to the surprises my body has hidden within, including 80% more colon than normal. It is wrapped around my liver.

I also have Takotsubo syndrome, known as Broken Heart syndrome or stress cardiomyopathy. This condition results in a weakened heart during stressful situations.

David surrounded by his great granddaughters; Kallie, Emma, Valerie, & Natalia.

As Dianna was cutting my hair recently, my heart stopped, and I fell to the floor, eyes wide open. She called 9-1-1, and emergency personnel were able to revive me. At another time, when coming in from the garden to get a glass of tea, my temperature shot up to 106 degrees within a very short span of time, and my blood

pressure tanked. I went sepsis and found that I had E.coli. That episode required two months of physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy, as well as time on a walker to get back to normal. Again, God has given me a fighting spirit to survive these maladies and to praise Him in the process.

ABOVE: David & Dianna on their wedding day.

RIGHT: David and his two children, son Michael & daughter Christie.

You are a testimony to perseverance and endurance. When not dealing with a new medical surprise, what hobbies do you and Dianna enjoy?

We love to travel, work in the garden, and

play games at night. I used to enjoy dancing, and won a dance contest in Nashville years ago, even with neuropathology in my lower legs, but no more dancing these days. We now enjoy our nine great-grandchildren and look forward with excitement to the two new ones on the way. God has blessed us so

richly. My chief goal in life is to honor Him, live for Him, and teach my grandchildren about Him. Through the best and worst that life has brought our way, God has been good and is always good, no matter what life brings our way.

David winning a dance contest in Nashville.

Dear Gabby

Welcome back to the Dear Gabby advice column. I’m not talking to Siri anymore. I was in a playful mood this morning, so I asked my phone, “Siri, am I the fairest of them all?” and she activated the front camera. Very funny! To all of the Dads: may your Father’s Day be better than your jokes. Speaking of jokes, life is just too short to be serious all the time. So, if you can’t laugh at yourself, drop me a line and I’ll laugh at you. Send your questions to me by going to www.PostcardsLive com/share and clicking on Dear Gabby.

DEAR GABBY

It’s swimsuit season, and I am not looking forward to it! I am not young and skinny, but I do love to go to the pool and cool off. In my defense, I was quarantined with a kitchen full of food a while back. What’s a lady to do?

NOT SUITABLE

DEAR SUITABLE

I keep hoping I’ll become old enough to not care what other people think about the way I look, but that hasn’t happened, yet. So, in the summer, I try on my bathing suit first thing every morning. That way, nothing worse can happen the rest of the day! I can relate about the quarantine, but I just read the average human is 60% water. I’m not fat, I’m flooded! While I am certainly not bikini ready, I am definitely poncho ready. A good cover-up makes a world of difference. At my age, the only thing I’m buying that’s two-piece are dentures!

DEAR GABBY

I work with the crabbiest, nasty person in the world. His desk is right by the front door, and everyone feels like they need to say something to this person when they come into the building. Some people say “Good morning” or tell him to have a nice day, but they really don’t mean it. What can I say to him that isn’t hypocritical or a downright lie?

BEST POLICY GUY

DEAR GUY

That’s an easy one. Just say “I hope your day is just as pleasant as you are.”

CONFIDENTIAL TO SPEED BUMPS: Stop blaming everyone else for the road you’re on. That’s your own asphalt.

GABBY

GABBY

“Seens” from our World

Grow a kitty: Put some fur in potting soil; water frequently.

Seen by: David McGann

...with less than zero tolerance for sign vandalism!

Share the funny and unusual things you’ve seen! PostcardsLive.com

Established 1962

Locally owned and operated by Jerry Larrison

1011 11th St. • Huntsville (936) 295-5747

Reliable Parts Co.

Monday - Saturday 7:30 am - 7:00 pm

• Auto, Truck & Tractor Parts

• Batteries • Tires

• Paint • Hoses & More

Main Street Auto Parts

110 East Main St. • Trinity, TX Bryan Jones

Monday - Saturday 8:00 am - 6:00 pm

Seen by: PC Staff

By Kim Bius

Blooming Vines for Your Summer Garden

What makes a summer garden unique? Blooming vines! Blooming vines are available in a wide range of categories: evergreen, perennial, annual, and tropical evergreen (will freeze at temps below 28 for several hours). Blooming vines are also available in a wide range of textures, bloom colors, fragrances, and sun and soil requirements. Here are a few of the most requested vines and their requirements.

Confederate Jasmine is a Texas favorite. This prolific, evergreen vine is highly fragrant and blooms from mid-spring until fall with clusters of star-like white blooms. The vine displays

fall colors of bright red/burgundy/ bronze and coppers, withstands heavy freezes (once established). Confederate Jasmine brings an intoxicating fragrance to the garden that few other plants have. Considered deer proof, prefers 6-8 hours of sun for heavy blooming, but will grow in shady areas with few blooms.

Purple Passion Vine is a Texas native (as well as a few other passiflora varities). Many are tropicals, but a few, like the red and native purple, will withstand temp into the lower 20s and return. These beautiful vines are also the preferred plant of several butterfly varieties, and exclusive to the gulf fritillary. If planted in an area that

does not have hard winter dieback, Pasiflora Incarnata will produce an egg-shaped fruit that is delicious and makes fabulous daiquiris. Passion vines are lightly fragrant, have few disease or insect problems, and considered deer proof.

Bleeding Heart Vine is another true southern heirloom vine (that can be considered invasive, if planted in the wrong area and not given room to roam). Bleeding heart is a very hardy, sun-loving perennial that blooms early summer through fall and displays clusters of white/ red or purple hanging bloom clusters. A prolific climber, and fast growing--can grow up to 6” a day in season. Deer proof, easy, no known insects, and once you have one, all your friends can have one, too. Excellent on pergolas, fences, and open areas.

Coral Vine, a native of Mexico, is another lightly fragrant, southern favorite. The lacy blooms hang in pink clusters during the summer and are often “show-stoppers.”

The coral vine does not do well in colder temperatures, but can be grown as an annual--due to its fast growth, it can reach 6’ in one season. Coral vine is not immensely heavy and makes a great choice for a lighter fence or structure. Coral Vine prefer sunny locations, prolific growers, and will return each year from the bountiful seed produced--perfect bird habitat. Rarely has disease or insects.

Do not forget to add a few annual vine varieties. Moonflower, morning glory, and cardinal vine are just a few of the hardy heirloom, fragrant, blooming vines that can be grown from seed and replanted annually (or collect the seed and replant each year). Moonflower is a

perennial favorite, and kids love watching the large blue/white blooms open at dusk. Super easy to grow, hardy, and only require a half day of sunlight. Other favorites are black-eyed susan vine, clematis, and of course, climbing roses--which are an entire different category, but definitely worth mentioning.

The above listed blooming vines are sun lovers, require good drainage, and will return to grace your garden for years. Happy summer gardening!

Hindsight is the only exact science. The shoemaker’s children are always the ones who are barefooted. His

Mandy Merino Johnson

Fiesta Taqueria, Huntsville

DOING ON YOUR DAY OFF? Working!

HOW WOULD YOUR PERFECT DAY BEGIN? Coffee with my husband.

HOW DO YOU CLEAR YOUR MIND AFTER A BAD DAY? There ARE no bad days!

ONE THING YOU’RE EPICALLY BAD AT? Sitting still. 15 BUCKET LIST ITEM YOU’RE MOST GLAD YOU’VE DONE?

Waited as long as I did to get married. 16

TOP THING LEFT TO DO ON YOUR BUCKET LIST?

Being able to take off work without worrying about work.

17 IF YOU COULD LIVE ABROAD, WHERE WOULD THAT BE?

I don’t want to be anywhere but here. 18

WHO DO YOU ADMIRE?

My husband Allan Johnson; hard days or bad days, he just pulls on through like it never was bad.

19 BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER GOTTEN?

My grandma said, “If you’re awake, you might as well be working!” 20 ADVICE TO YOUR YOUNGER SELF?

You’re gonna LOVE your future life!

Local Treasure

The Sanctuary Blueberry Farm Blueberry Pickin’ at

Story by Ruth Fields

Photos by Tom Miller

Local physician Dr. Tom Reed and his wife Evangeline operate an organic, pick-your-own blueberry farm oasis in Montgomery.

In the moments before sunrise, vast rows of blueberry bushes, heavy with fruit, are glazed with dew. Giant hardwood trees, which grow around the edges of the fields, envelop the farm in a peaceful cocoon. As the sun peeks over the treetops, birds sing. Crickets chirp. Frogs croak. The farm’s owners, Dr. Tom Reed and his wife Evangeline, observe this tranquility at The Sanctuary Blueberry Farm every day. “Our goal is for this to be a place that would help people have peace, to take a deep breath and relax,” Evangeline says.

Making it different

In 2011, Tom (a double-board-certified foot and ankle surgeon) and Evangeline (a homeschooling mom) purchased 70 acres of gently rolling countryside south of Montgomery. They envisioned a Christian retreat, and planned to call it The Sanctuary Retreat Center. At the time, however, Tom and Evangeline lived in The Woodlands, and they found it demanding and time-consuming to manage the retreat center remotely. So, they rethought their plan, walking through their acreage and thinking, “What else can we do with this?”

While walking through the fields, the Reeds reminisced about the days when they took their five young children to

pick-your-own blueberry farms. “It was a very special time of the year for us to go out together as a family and pick buckets of delicious blueberries,” Evangeline says. “So,” Tom says, “we decided to start a blueberry farm, but grow the plants differently by making it all organic.” The name, The Sanctuary, seemed appropriate, so it stuck, and the acreage became The Sanctuary Blueberry Farm.

In 2013, the Reeds moved from The Woodlands to their Montgomery property; that fall, they planted 1,000 blueberry bushes, concentrating on heat-tolerant, hybrid varieties such as Premier, Tifblue and Climax. “Tom especially was a big gardener, but this was a much bigger and more complicated effort and took some long-range planning,” Evangeline says. “We didn’t kill them the first year, so we thought, ‘hey, we’re good to go’ and the next year we planted another 3,000.” More followed until finally, the farm had more than 7,000 blueberry bushes growing on approximately 11 acres. As they matured, the bushes began to produce more fresh, sweet, large berries— “unlike anything found at the grocery stores,” Evangeline says.

During the picking seasons of 2016 and 2017, Tom and Evangeline invited friends to help them harvest blueberries, but soon there were more berries than friends and

family could pick. In 2018, the couple opened their gates to the public, and local residents began flocking to the farm. With dozens of rows of blueberries spanning 11 acres, visitors can spread out and pick berries while enjoying the rural quiet of the farm. “You are by yourself,” Evangeline says, “even if the parking area is full.”

In harmony with nature

Evangeline is quick to point out that the farm never uses synthetic chemical fertilizers, pesticides or herbicides. “We don’t always follow traditional farming advice,” she says. Instead, they use organic fertilizers, such as molasses and fish emulsion, and apply essential oils as needed for pest control. The couple has plans to start a worm farm, which will create richly-fertilized soil for the blueberry plants, and Hive Bee Farm keeps hives on the property to encourage bees to pollinate the many blueberry bushes. “It is financially unfeasible for small farms to go to the expense of becoming certified as organic farms, but The Sanctuary does adhere to organic, bio-dynamic standards. That means ‘in harmony with nature,’” Evangeline explains.

It’s not surprising that Tom »

Ever After Begins Here

and Evangeline are so passionate about organic farming methods. In his medical practice, Tom advocates natural solutions to health problems rather than resorting to medications. In 2019, he published Your Health has been Hijacked, a book that “challenges everything that is out there on health-related topics,” he says. It became a number one best seller in Amazon’s toxicology division just three weeks after its release. “People are searching for the truth,” Tom says, but because it’s hard for readers to know what to believe, his book cites more than 500 references to give credibility to his challenging ideas. Evangeline believes Tom makes things easy to digest. “He can take a complicated subject and make it something you can understand,” she says.

Tom and Evangeline often advocate the power of nature’s own essential plant oils, and are affiliated with Young Living Essential Oils, a 30-year-old company that produces high-quality essential oils and other essential oil-infused nutritional, personal care and household products. “These are not oils that you will find in most stores,” Evangeline says. “They’re pure and highly researched.”

Photo by Jaimie Burrows

The farm uses organic fertilizers, such as molasses and fish emulsion, and applies essential oils as needed for pest control.

The Reeds also host health-related home gatherings to mentor others on how to use essential oils, as well as other healthy lifestyle options for families, pets, gardening, and even pest control.

In addition, the couple is in demand nationwide at seminars, both in person and via Zoom, to teach about natural health, homesteading, healthy lifestyle choices and other pertinent topics. The Reeds’ passion for healthy living is now in its second generation: their son Joshua Reed is the owner of Montgomery Farmers Market, which brings naturally-oriented farmers, ranchers and food manufacturers to Montgomery every Saturday morning. (For more information, visit montgomeryfarmersmarket.com.)

Picking season

Depending on several variables, blueberries at the farm begin ripening at the end of May or early June, and picking season lasts for five to six weeks. The Sanctuary Blueberry Farm is usually open two or three days during the week for picking, depending on weather, plus Saturdays and Sundays with limited hours. Picking hours during the week are typically 7 a.m. until noon, or 4 p.m. until 8 p.m.; there are additional evening hours on Saturday and often Sunday. Evangeline encourages pickers to check The Sanctuary’s website or Facebook page frequently, as picking days and hours sometimes change. (Google Maps doesn’t always reflect accurate hours.) Families can park right by the blueberry fields or, during the week, by the barn, which is just a short walk to the fields. Pickers can purchase buckets from the farm—or bring their own—and get right to picking. While children are welcome, Evangeline suggests bringing strollers or wagons for children who may tire of picking before their parents do. During the 2022 picking season, local residents picked thousands of pounds of blueberries, enough to create countless

With dozens of rows of blueberries spanning 11 acres, visitors can spread out and pick berries while enjoying the rural quiet of the farm.

pies, muffins, pancakes, shakes and dessert toppings; however, Tom and Evangeline promise that the organically-raised berries are temptingly sweet all by themselves.

It brings Tom and Evangeline great joy to observe the pickers’ excitement each year. “You see the smiles on people’s faces,” Tom says. “They know the berries are going to be better than anything they can buy at the

store.” Pickers also tell the Reeds that they enjoy visiting the farm because it brings calm to their otherwise busy lives. “Many people have told us that this property does that for them,” Evangeline says. “They just feel more peaceful.”

For more information, visit sanctuaryblueberryfarm.com or facebook.com/TheSanctuaryBlueberryFarm.

Medical Matters

By Cassandra K. Schakett, MD

Your Preconception Checklist: 6 Things You Should Be Doing According to an OB/GYN

Dr. Cassandra Schakett, key topics to know about preconception, ways to increase your chances of conception, and how to protect you and your baby during pregnancy.

1. Start Taking Prenatal Vitamins

Prenatal vitamins contain vital nutrients for both mom and baby, including folate; iron; and vitamins D, B6, and B12.

“I recommend my patients begin taking prenatal vitamins at least one month before they start trying to conceive and through the duration of the pregnancy,” Dr. Schakett said. “While prenatal vitamins do not help a woman achieve pregnancy, taking them prior to conception can decrease the risk of certain fetal anomalies.”

2. Select an OB/GYN and Make a Preconception

Appointment

Typically, women who aren’t pregnant see their OB/GYN once a year, but pregnant women will, on average, see theirs 15 times during the year. The relationship needs to be built around trust and expertise. “During a preconception appointment, we will discuss any health issues or medication you are

taking that could affect your pregnancy,” Dr. Schakett said. “We identify any risks and assess the best course of action moving forward.”

3. Stop Contraception

The moment of truth. You are officially ready to try to conceive. If you are using contraception, you can discontinue use. If you have an IUD or Nexplanon, make an appointment to get it removed—better yet, combine it with your preconception appointment.

4. Track Your Period

If you weren’t already doing this (or you had hormonal birth control keeping you on an artificial schedule), now is the time to start

keeping track of when your comes each month.

Ideally, the length of your cycle the same month after month. variance of more than one week off birth control for several should discuss this with your

5. Track Your Ovulation

For people with a 28-day cycle, typically occurs anywhere from 10-20. You should attempt to day or every other day during of time. Alternatively, you can the-counter ovulation predictor ovulation every day, starting 10, until you get a positive result.

6. Be Patient, Don’t Stress

If you are under 35 years recommended you try to regular, unprotected intercourse your peak ovulation period before making an appointment doctor to discuss fertility. If than 35, give it 6 months before an assessment. If your periods then these general guidelines and you should schedule an with your OB/GYN now to discuss.

Memorial Hospital is Hometown Hospital

over 50, frequent bathroom breaks, reduced and interrupted sleep are common complaints. also symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia Huntsville Memorial Hospital offers Aquablation Therapy treatment that uses the power of water to provide complications. Better treatment for BPH is here. call to learn more.

Giggles & Grins

A woman in labor suddenly shouted, “Shouldn’t! Wouldn’t! Couldn’t! Didn’t! Can’t!”

“Don’t worry,” said the doc. “Those are just contractions.”

Did you hear about the actor who fell through the floorboards?

He was just going through a stage.

Did you hear about the claustrophobic astronaut?

He just needed a little space.

A bear walks into a bar and says, “Give me a whiskey and … cola.” “Why the big pause?” asks the bartender. The bear shrugged. “I’m not sure; I was born with them.”

Why don’t scientists trust atoms? Because they make up everything.

Where are average things manufactured?

The satisfactory.

By Steve VanWagner, D.V.M.

Administering Oral Medications to Your Horse

The most important aspect to giving any oral treatment is making sure the total dose of medication is given at the prescribed time, for the total number of days, as directed by your veterinarian. The second most important aspect is to make sure your horse is ingesting the entire dose. It is also important to know the best method for the individual horse to administer the medication: pasting or via feeding.

Oral medications may come packaged four different ways: tablets, pastes, liquids, powder/ granules.

There are two ways to administer tablet medication. Tablets can be mixed directly with feed (if not too many are being given at one time or if the tablets are relatively small in size). Tablets can also be given by grinding or dissolving them with liquid; they can then be mixed in the feed or given by oral dosing

using a modified syringe. The best technique I have found to oral dose a horse is to place your hand over the bridge of the nose and use your arm to block the vision from the eye. While doing that place your thumb from the hand over

It is important to make sure the horse’s mouth is free of hay or feed before administering any medication, so it is ideal to administer them before feeding.

the nose into the corner of the horse’s mouth then slide the syringe on top of the tongue towards the back of the mouth, depress the plunger, then roll the syringe onto the tongue. Keeping the muzzle lifted up after dosing will also discourage the horse from spitting it out.

When mixing medications with feed, larger tablets can be ground up using a coffee grinder, mortar and pestle, or a hammer can be used to crush tablets in a small plastic bag. Powder and granules should be mixed directly with feed. Dampening the feed with molasses, honey, or karo syrup can make the mixture more palatable for your horse and keeps powders and granules from separating out. Check the bottom of the feed bucket 15-20 minutes after feeding to ensure the entire mixture has been eaten.

If you have any questions about oral administration or you are having difficulty giving your horse oral medication, contact your veterinarian for further advice.

DAD : A SON'S FIRST HERO, A DAUGHTER'S FIRST LOVE.

Bible Study: Sunday Mornings, 9:30 am

Worship Time: Sunday Mornings, 10:30 am

Celebrate Recovery: Tuesdays, 7 pm

Church Email: covenantpastor@gmail.com

Church Website: cfhuntsville.org

Address: 606 FM 1791 N. • Huntsville

Church Phone: (936) 435-0993

Lead Pastor: David Valentine

Texas Treasures

Story By Kali Camacho

Submitted Photos

“Let future generations understand the burden and the blessings of freedom”

“Let future generations understand the burden and the blessings of freedom,” said George H.W. Bush in his State of the Union Address. Visiting the George H. W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum in College Station, Texas is one way to learn about the Bush presidency and his role in the fight for freedom.

The George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum, located on the campus of Texas A&M University in College Station, celebrated its 25th anniversary in April of this year.

LEFT: Front of George H.W. Bush Library & Museum

TOP: Painted portraits of George Bush and first lady Barbara Bush

ABOVE: Entry of Library

LEFT: Celebrating 25 years

RIGHT: Wall with quote from President Bush.

Guests have access to a guided audio tour they can connect to through their phone. In doing so, they can learn more information than provided in the museum alone.

Starting in the ‘Symbols of the Presidency’

collection, visitors can see notorious symbols synonymous with the presidency--such as, the presidential limousine, the Presidential Seal, as well as painted portraits of George Bush and first lady Barbara Bush.

Growing up, Bush had a very mundane and typical way of life. This is shown through the family pictures shown in the ‘Family Traditions’ room. Visitors will learn more about Bush’s childhood, as well as the lives of his siblings and parents. Numerous pictures showcase the activities the family did together, such as playing board games and baseball.

Of course, the Bush family is not the only one guests will learn about. First Lady Barbara Bush was an instrumental person in shaping Bush’s presidency. The history of her family is shown in the ‘Pierce Family’ collection. In this section, Barbara Bush’s mother’s glassware is encased on display. You will also learn how the Bush couple met and came to marry. Bush enlisted in the navy in 1942; hanging from the ceiling is a 1944 TBM Avenger plane restored by Mr. Jack Guy, who was a member of the same squadron as Bush during World War II. Mementos from his time in the navy are encased, such as his pilot’s handbook and navy identification card. Visitors can also use the museum’s pilot simulator to experience what it’s like to fly the plane. A video is also shown of Bush talking

•

about his military service and how it affected him.

After the war, Bush resumed life and went to college, married, and had a family. In the ‘From Flyboy to Goldenboy’ collection, photos from their wedding are hung. Encased is a replica of Barbara’s wedding dress and her broach she wore at her wedding. You will also learn more about Bush’s time at Yale and playing college baseball.

Before becoming involved in politics, Bush became successful in the oil business. Through the ‘Taking Risks’ collection, visitors will learn more about how Bush formed an oil business and later became president of Zapata Offshore. A plaque from Zapata Offshore oil drilling is on display.

Once he successfully created his own business, Bush realized he could do a lot more to help people. To do so, he started out by running for the chairmanship of the Harris County Republican Party and won in 1963.

In ‘The Congressman from Texas,’ visitors will also learn more concerning his place in the U.S. House of Representatives and furthermore, his role as a Vice President.

Moving his political career further, Bush soon becomes the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations. Further ahead, visitors can learn more about his role as Director of the CIA in the ‘A Firm Yes’ exhibit. They are able to experience the CIA by using their handprint to open drawers, revealing spy equipment and artifacts.

Eventually, visitors enter the ‘Mr. President’ exhibit, where they learn how Bush campaigned and came to be president. On display is First Lady Barbara Bush’s evening gown from their Inaugural Ball. Visitors can also see a replica of the White House and how it was decorated during Bush’s presidency. They are also welcome to sit at the White House desk. Pictures of his and his children’s lives are set up on the bookshelf.

Further down in the ‘Press Room

Jeremy Romoser, Jacob Paschal and Sarah Hebert

Theater,’ visitors can stand at the president’s podium and experience giving a press conference from a teleprompter. In the room, watch a video of President Bush’s inauguration.

First Lady Barbara Bush had her own impact on the country during her husband’s term. In her exhibit, ‘To Help Every Day,’ visitors learn more on her mission to help someone every day, including visiting children’s hospitals and retirement homes and how she improved literacy rates.

A 12-foot piece of the Berlin Wall stands with a video detailing Bush’s role in the Cold War.

As visitors continue, they learn more about the Persian Gulf War, Gulf War, and ecoterrorism.

“A Tough Campaign and a Life of Service’ exhibit details the defeat Bush had when trying to run for re-election against Bill Clinton. On display are Bush’s campaign pins and posters. This defeat, however, did not stop George and Barbara Bush from volunteering and each writing bestselling books.

The museum ends with ways in which the Bush family is remembered. A statue of Sully, George Bush’s service dog, also stands.

In total, The George Bush library contains more than 100,000 artifacts and hosts a number of events throughout the year,

Monday - Saturday: 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Sunday: 12 p.m. - 5 p.m.

including workshops for educators and educational movie series for families.

Construction is underway on the Marine One/4141 Locomotive Pavilion. The new 29,000 square foot building will feature a retired Marine One helicopter, the Union Pacific 4141 locomotive, and an onsite café. The locomotive was used for the Bush funeral train in 2018. The Pavilion is scheduled to open June 2024.

Behind the museum, an iron gate surrounds the graves of George H. W. Bush, his wife Barbara Bush, and their daughter Robin, who died at age three in 1953. This gravesite is open to visitors to pay respects during the museum hours.

Texas AM University

1000 George Bush Dr W College Station, TX 77845 (979) 691-4000 bush41.org

George H.W. Bush Presidential Library & Museum

For Lifelong Success Expert Teachers In A Community You Can Trust

Here are a few of the many awards, earned by Tomorrow’s Promise:

2022 Featured in the book, Haven's of Hope, Ideas for Redesigning Education from the COVID-19 Pandemic

2022 3rd Place Winner in the Childcare Success Academy's National Rockstar of the Year Award

2023 One of 50 childcare centers in the Houston District to be accepted into the Shared Service Alliance.

2023 SBA Houston District Rural Owner of the Year

20 years as a Texas Rising Star Vendor

…and Reader's Choice Award for multiple years

At Tomorrow’s Promise, we are committed to providing childcare you can count on! We are here to serve you and play a key role in the education of your child.

Our Founder, Kaye Boehning, M.Ed.

2021 SBA Emerging Leader (1st person in Walker County)

2023 Podcast episode 149 Culture Transformation Starts at the Top with Kaye Boehning

Two locations to better serve you now.

2817 Old Houston Rd. • Huntsville

Monday - Friday 5:00 AM - 6:30 PM 906 10th Street • Huntsville

Monday - Friday 6:00 AM - 6:30 PM

New Non-Surgical Treatment for Back Pain and Neuropathy

The Problem

Back Pain and Neuropathy can often be annoying, frustrating, debilitating, and even stop you from enjoying life. At Huntsville Physical Medicine Institute, we provide unique Non-Surgical and Non-Invasive treatments to get rid of your pain and finally get you the lasting relief you deserve.

The New Way

With recent advancements in our understanding of the human body and how it heals, we are now able to successfully treat Back Pain and Neuropathy like never before. This “New Way” is called “Relief through Regeneration” and combines the most recent and best Non-Invasive therapies to help you get the right treatment and lasting relief once and for all.

About Huntsville Physical Medicine Institute

For over 30 years, we have been helping the good people of Walker County and surrounding areas get rid of their pain and back to pain free living. Our professional staff includes Dr. Brian McGee DC, who is a native Texan and stays on the cutting edge of NonSurgical and Non-Invasive treatments.

Over the past decade, we have helped thousands of patients who have suffered from Neuropathy (numbness, tingling, weakness), Chronic Back Pain, Sciatica, Bulging Disc, Pinched Nerves, Spinal Arthritis / Degeneration and much more. Through our unique NonSurgical approach, these patients have been able to get rid of their pain, get off pain medication, avoid surgery, and enjoy “Pain Free Living!”

The Old Way

The “Old Way” of treating pain typically involves oral medication and steroid injections. These treatments can offer some temporary relief, but rarely fix the real problem that is causing the pain. Once we find and fix the damaged area causing the pain or other symptoms, the pain goes away... It really is that simple! Many of the patients that come to our clinic looking for help have tried medication or other treatments that just didn’t work, and they are ready for a new approach. They want to move better, feel better, and start enjoying their life again.

3 Steps to Relief!

TYKO

loved by Randy & Joyce Parrish

CHARLIE

loved by Angie

HOAGIE

loved by Ronnie & Julie Bellinosky

Kids operating real construction equipment

In Texas, we WORK BIG and PLAY BIG! So, a theme attraction where small children operate actual life-size construction equipment doesn’t seem too crazy, right? Enter Dig World in Katy, which opened in March 2022. The Postcards Team, accompanied by Duke Sherman (our official kid tester of the attractions), took a trip to check out Dig World so we could share firsthand about the park with readers.

For starters, we sat down with owner Jacob Robinson and asked him to share more about Dig World.

“My business partner Rick and I came up with this idea back in 2018. I have a seven-year-old son who has always been obsessed with construction equipment. My son got sick in 2017 with bacterial meningitis, and it left him permanently disabled, with a whole host of special needs. Coming out of that, my desire was to create a place where he, and individuals like him, could participate, have a great experience, and bring families together.

We began a journey to see what was out there. There’s a park in New Jersey like ours. We thought we could bring one to Texas and do it well here. Initially, we planned a larger park with an all-day experience.

After Covid paused our plans, we shifted our business model into the 3.5 acre park you see today. We broke ground in 2021 and opened the doors March 2022.”

Dig World learned that a 2-hour experience is ideal for their target demographic, so they plan to keep the original park plan. Additional locations are being considered in the

“We started fundraising in 2019. Then Covid hit. We joked, ‘We’re already crazy telling the world we’re going to put four-year-olds on excavators. Now we’re crazy doing that AND trying to build a theme park in the middle of Covid. So, we’re double-crazy!’”

–Jacob Robinson, Dig World owner

Smiles abound as children experience the fun.

Duke pictured with his Pop, Dr. John Knight.

AttrAction HigHligHts

• 2 Skid Steer Tracks - Take a drive in a full-size Caterpillar 236D3 Skid Steer Loader around a windy track!

• UTV Course - Get behind the wheel of a UTV side-by-side and venture through a safely guided track!

• Mini Excavator Dig - Get behind the controls of a Caterpillar 303.5 Mini-Excavator and dig real dirt to your heart’s desire!

• Mini Excavator Game: Pond Fishing - Test your skills as you fish objects out of mini ponds with a full-size Caterpillar 303.5 MiniExcavator!

• Mini Excavator Game: Cone Pick-up - Pick up all the cones with a full-size Caterpillar 302.7 Mini-Excavator!

• Playground

• Gem Mining Station

• Turf Field with Yard Games

areas.

Rides are restricted by height. Children taller than 48” may operate all attractions by themselves. Children taller than 42” can operate most of the equipment by themselves. Children between 32” and 48” tall may ride and operate machinery with an adult. Children shorter than 32” may utilize all other attractions in the park except for the machinery. All children under 32” tall are FREE! For everyone else, a 2-hour pass is $24.99.

Tickets are good for two hours, and customers can do each attraction multiple times (provided they proceed through the line each time). Each person entering the park must purchase a ticket. The reasons for this are many, according to Jacob, but the primary reasons are: 1) an accompanying adult may need to help the child; and 2) most adults end up wanting to operate the equipment, too!

It’s hard for some people to believe the children are actually operating the machines at Dig World. Said Jacob, “I had a parent here last week who was a heavy

equipment operator for Fort Bend County. He asked us if we were controlling the equipment with drones. I had a difficult time convincing him the kids were actually running the equipment.”

Duke Sherman checking to see if he meets the height requirements to operate alone.

Giving and Giving Back

The staff we encountered on our visit were mostly young, but definitely enthusiastic and competent. Says Jacob of his staff, “We are blessed with some great high school kids. Our kids have bought into what we are trying to deliver--bought into the customer experience and providing a lasting positive experience.” This isn’t by accident, but by design. “It stems from Amanda, our general manager, providing

Pond fishing game during the 2022 grand opening.

Duke driving a skid steer with grandfather John Knight along for the ride!

great leadership,” said Jacob, “but also from attitude. Rick and I joke that we want to have ‘Chick-fil-A customer service’ and be ‘Buc-ee’s clean.’ That’s the standard we are trying to build.”

Each quarter, a Special Needs Night is a great service opportunity for the organization. According to Jacob, “We have 100% of employees raise their hand and say, ‘I want to work that night.’ That makes my heart happy. They’re a great group of

employees.” Knowing firsthand that having a special needs child can result in financial and environmental restrictions for families, Jacob has made it a priority to work with community partners and sponsors to underwrite tickets to Special Needs Night so families in which a person has a disability can come for free to Dig World.

Dig World is also a great place for parties. The park had 400 birthday parties during its first year. “We are hosting eight parties today,” said Jacob, “and then we have a military families group of about 100 people coming in later. It’s a busy day.” Jacob also said that Chelsea, their event director, is always looking to improve that process and experience for customers.

A source of pride for Dig World is a partnership with the Texas A&M University Engineering Department. University students designed

Informational fun fact sign developed by students at Texas A&M

and created informational “fun fact” signs on display at Dig World, and students also developed a curriculum for school field trips, an aspect of the park Jacob hopes to really grow.

Building More Than Can Be Accomplished with Construction Equipment

When asked what the most important thing he has learned from building and operating Dig World, Jacob reflected, “This park--we get the opportunity to interact with people from all around the world. We get to employ high school students--so I can pour into high school kids, and I can deal with grandparents. There are not many jobs where you get to do that on a consistent minute-by-minute basis. In my own way, I get to love on people and show them people care about them. It’s fun.”

Editor’s Note:

Readers may rest easy knowing Dig World was Duke Sherman tested…Duke Sherman approved!

5000 Katy Mills Blvd Suite 455 Katy, TX 77494 digworldtx.com

Open weekends only during the school year (except for holidays). Open Thursday through Sunday during the summer.

Welcome Jaci Nicole Jones born April 5, 2023, 5lbs 11oz.

Parents JW & Johanna Jones

Grandparents: Lorette White, Ronnie & Reba White and James & Janet Jones

Congratulations! Randy & Peggy Reynolds recently celebrated their 36th anniversary!

Happy 5th Anniversary! Lindsay Holland & James “Bubba”Holland

Daughter of Don & Pam Barnes

Granddaughter of Rev. Joe & Jean Barnes and Eugene & Shirley McCaffety

Chloe Brisher Huntsville High School

Favorite Movie: Jesus Revolution

Favorite Music/Artist: Third Day

Favorite Food: Pupusas

Favorite Quote: “The truth WILL set you free.”

Chloe is a senior at Huntsville High School and is the niece of Jerry and Veronica Brisher. Her activities include Jesus Club, TAFE (Texas Association of Future Educators), TAFE Honor Society, and youth group at First Assembly of God Church. Following graduation, Chloe plans to become an English teacher and an evangelist. She believes, “Jesus Christ is the way, the truth, and the life.”

Bethany Brock

New Waverly High School

Favorite Movie: Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron

Favorite Music/Artist: Classic Country/Reba & Carrie

Underwood

Favorite Food: Steak and Baked Potato

Favorite Quote: “Life will always knock you down. It’s your choice whether or not you get back up.”

Bethany is a senior at New Waverly High School and is the daughter of Justin and Stephanie Brock. Her activities include wrestling, cheer, track and field, volleyball, Beta Club, National Honor Society, One Act Play stage manager, and exhibitor at the Walker County Fair. Following graduation, Bethany plans to attend Texas A&M University to obtain a degree in business and finance, then obtain her CPA license. She believes, “Anything worth doing is worth working hard for.”

Kye’ana Washington

Huntsville High School

Favorite Movie: Lilo & Stitch/Princess & the Frog

Favorite Music/Artist: HER and SZA

Favorite Food: Lasagna

Favorite Quote: “If the lion isn’t the biggest, fastest, or smartest—how can he become the king of the jungle? Because of his mentality.” –Ray Lewis

Kye’ana is a senior at Huntsville High School and is the daughter of Lakeicha Wyatt, Jason Washington, and Wenedell Wyatt. Her activities include softball, track, powerlifting, cheer, and welding. Following graduation, Kye’ana plans to attend college and work toward becoming a counselor or an FBI profiler. She believes, “If I can see it being done, then I can do it, too—no matter how long it takes and how many trials I have to run.”

Reece Esser Huntsville High School

Favorite Movie: Mrs. Doubtfire

Favorite Music/Artist: Hozier

Favorite Food: Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo

Favorite Quote: “There is only one way to succeed in anything, and that is to give it everything.” –Vince Lombardi

Reece is a senior at Huntsville High School and is the daughter of Stacey Ulery and Richard Harrell. Her activities include competitive swimming, reading, the culinary arts, and volunteering. Following graduation, Reece plans to attend Centenary College of Louisiana as a student athlete (swimming), obtain undergraduate and graduate degrees, and become a physical therapist. She believes, “Live life to the fullest, and live in the moment; appreciate those around you who have supported and cared for you through everything—the good and the bad.”

Firecracker Salmon

Ingredients

¼ cup maple syrup

1 med jalapeno, cut in half width-wise

1 clove garlic, minced

1 Tbs rice wine vinegar

½ tsp salt

1/8 tsp black pepper

2 (6 oz) salmon filets

salt and pepper to taste

2 tsp maple syrup

Directions

Step 1: Combine 1/4 cup maple syrup, 1/2 of the jalapeno pepper, garlic, vinegar, salt, and black pepper in a mini food processor or small blender jar; blend until smooth.

Step 2: Place salmon filets in a gallonsized resealable plastic bag. Pour marinade on top, seal, and refrigerate for 20 minutes. Remove from refrigerator and let the bag sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.

Step 3: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 4: Remove salmon from marinade and pat dry. Place salmon on the prepared baking sheet and season

with additional salt and pepper. Slice remaining jalapeno pepper thinly and place on top of salmon.

Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Brush 2 teaspoons maple syrup onto the fillets and return to the hot oven. Bake until fish flakes easily with a fork, an additional 3 to 5 minutes.

Strawberry Rhubarb Drop Biscuits

Ingredients

Fruit Mixture:

1 1/4 cups cubed rhubarb

1 1/4 cups cubed strawberries

2 Tbs white sugar

Dough:

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 1/2 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp fine salt

1/2 cup (1 stick) frozen unsalted butter

1/4 cup white sugar

2 Tbs reserved fruit syrup

3/4 cup cold buttermilk

Egg Wash (optional):

1 large egg

2 tsp water

Lemon Icing Drizzle (optional):

1/3 cup packed powdered sugar

1 tsp finely grated lemon zest

2 tsp lemon juice, more as needed

Step 1: Cut ribs of rhubarb in half lengthwise and slice into 1/4-inch pieces; place into a bowl. Add cubed strawberries and 2 tablespoons sugar. Toss to combine, cover, and let fruit macerate in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 hours.

Step 2: Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a mixing bowl; whisk to combine.

Step 3: Drain fruit in a strainer set over a bowl. Reserve the syrupy juices that pass through.

Step 4: Grate frozen butter into the flour mixture, while stirring with a fork several times to coat butter pieces with flour. Add 1/4 cup sugar, and drained fruit, mixing with a fork until fruit is coated with flour.

Step 5: Add 2 tablespoons of the reserved fruit juices and pour in buttermilk. Mix with a fork just until

the dry ingredients are incorporated into the dough. If the mixture is too dry to come together, add a little more buttermilk. If it seems too wet and sticky, add a little more flour.

Step 6: Preheat the oven to 450 degrees. Line a baking sheet with a silpat mat.

Step 7: Scoop or spoon equal portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Whisk together egg and water in a small bowl. Brush biscuits with egg wash, and sprinkle with sugar.

Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack and let cool completely.

Step 9: Mix powdered sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice together in a small bowl for the lemon icing. Fill icing into a piping bag or a plastic bag with the tip cut off and drizzle icing over cooled biscuits.

Maple Bacon Double Cheeseburgers

Ingredients

3 pounds ground beef chuck

Vegetable oil, for the grill

12 slices bacon, halved

3 tablespoons pure maple syrup

Coarsely ground pepper

6 sesame hamburger buns, split

1/4 cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons ketchup

2 teaspoons spicy brown mustard

1 teaspoon Louisiana-style hot sauce

Kosher salt

12 slices colby jack cheese

Pickle chips, for topping

Directions

Step 1: Form the ground beef into 12 thin patties, about 4 1/2 inches wide. Place on a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up. Preheat a grill to high and lightly oil the grates.

Step 2: Meanwhile, put the bacon in a large nonstick skillet (it’s OK if the slices overlap -- they’ll shrink). Turn the heat to medium and cook, turning occasionally, until browned and crisp, 15 to 20 minutes. Remove the bacon to a plate. Pour the drippings into a bowl and reserve.

Step 3: Return the bacon to the skillet in a single layer. Drizzle with the maple syrup and sprinkle with

1 teaspoon pepper. Cook over medium heat, turning the bacon to coat in the syrup, until glazed, about 1 minute; remove to a plate to cool. Brush the cut sides of the buns with some of the bacon drippings. Mix the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard and hot sauce in a small bowl.

Step 4: Season the patties with salt and pepper on both sides. Working in batches, grill the patties until marked on the bottom, 2 minutes, then flip and top each with a slice of cheese. Cover and cook 30 more seconds for medium doneness. Toast the buns on the grill.

Step 5: Assemble the burgers: Spread the mayonnaise sauce on the buns. Fill with the pickles, patties (2 per burger) and bacon.

Pineapple Upside Down Bars

Ingredients

cooking spray

1 (20 oz) can pineapple rings in 100% pineapple juice, drained, juice reserved

15 maraschino cherries, or as needed, stems removed

1 1/2 Tbs brown sugar

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

1/2 cup white sugar

1/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar

1/2 cup pineapple juice

1 Tbs lemon juice

1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp baking soda

1/4 tsp ground cinnamon

1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Line an 8x8-inch square pan with enough parchment to have overhang on all sides; spray the parchment with nonstick spray.

Step 2: Remove 8 or 9 pineapple rings from the can and pat them dry with a paper towel. Measure 1/2 cup pineapple juice from the can and set aside to use for the batter.

Step 3: Pat maraschino cherries with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

Step 4: Place pineapple rings in an even layer in the bottom of the pan, trimming as necessary to fit. Add the cherries to the pan, placing them in and around the pineapple rings. Sprinkle pineapple and cherries with the 1 1/2 Tbs brown sugar.

Step 5: In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, white sugar, and the 1/4 cup brown sugar until thoroughly combined. Add in ½ cup reserved pineapple juice, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Stir until mixture looks curdled. Add in the flour, salt, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and whisk until the batter is smooth.

Step 6: Place dollops of batter over prepared pineapple and cherries, and gently spread into an even layer with a spatula.

Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven until edges of the bars are golden brown and center is set, 30 to 35 minutes. A toothpick inserted near the center should come out clean.

Step 8: Allow bars to cool in the pan for 15 minutes. Carefully invert onto a plate or platter, and gently remove parchment paper. Allow to cool completely. Once bars are cool, carefully run a knife or a long, thin spatula underneath the bars to loosen them from the plate or platter. Cut into 16 bars.

Ingredients

2 eggs

1 cup torn baby spinach leaves

1 ½ Tbs grated Parmesan cheese

¼ tsp onion powder

⅛ tsp ground nutmeg

salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Step 1: Beat eggs in a bowl; stir in baby spinach and Parmesan cheese. Season with onion powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Spray a small skillet with cooking spray and place over medium heat. Once warm, add in the egg mixture and cook until partially set, about 3 minutes. Flip with a spatula, and continue cooking, 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 3: Reduce heat to low and continue cooking, 2 to 3 minutes, or until omelet reaches desired doneness.

Baby spinach is just young spinach (Spinacia oleracea) that farmers harvest during the early stages of plant growth, generally between 15 and 35 days after planting. The smaller leaves are more tender and have a sweeter flavor than mature spinach.

Native to: Middle East

Taste: Slightly sweet

Sullivan Classic Homes

Submitted photos of work by Sullivan Classic Homes.

Story by Rosa Coss

Photos by Tom Miller

“We are building the foundation for your memories that will last a lifetime...”

“Taking Your Dreams and Ideas and Turning Them into a Reality.”

Sullivan Classic Homes Inc., is a true custom home builder serving Walker, Madison, Grimes, Leon, Montgomery, and surrounding counties. It is owned by Paul Sullivan. He and daughter Danica share in the operation of the business. They also specialize in commercial constructions, remodeling, and metal buildings. At Sullivan Classic Homes Inc., their motto is “Taking Your Dreams and Ideas and Turning Them into a Reality.” They believe in building quality homes. “Every job gets my personal attention,” said Paul. “We build quality, whether visible or not. It’s personal to me, because my name is on it, so it has to be right.”

“I’m a Texan, 100 percent,” said Paul. “I’ve lived in Texas all my life.” (With the exception of his senior year, when his parents decided to move to Arkansas. That’s where he graduated from high school, but Paul said, he moved back to Texas as soon as he got a chance.)

Paul wasn’t always in the custom home building business, but life seemed to be guiding him in that direction. In his early years, he started off as an electrical contractor. He quickly became a journeyman. He got his first master’s license from the State of Texas in ’76. “Evidently, I learned pretty quickly, and I shot up the ladder,” said Paul. He has been a master electrician for thirtyfour years, and he has been in the construction industry for 41 years. Not long after becoming a master electrician, he opened Precision Electrical

Services in Conroe. As an electrical contracting business, he serviced Conroe and The Woodlands areas. At one point, he had about 40 employees working for him. He was the key electrical contractor for George Mitchell, when the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion (named after his wife) was being built. He met a lot of interesting and influential people in this line of work.

In 2006, he decided to give his electrical contracting business to his son Dearran, who changed the name to Sullivan Electrical Services, based out of Conroe. Around the same time, wanting to switch gears; he established Sullivan Classic Homes in Huntsville. “We’re not like the custom homebuilders that take you into a room and show you plans to pick from, or tell you about which model homes you can get a good deal on,” said Paul. “It’s your home, and we’ll build it the way you want. My trademark is, “Building the American

“Building the American Dream”

Dream.” One of his first big jobs was constructing First Citizen’s State Bank and Circle T Realty in Centerville. He remembers a conversation he had with a gentleman for whom he built three houses. After he finished building the first home, the homeowner told Paul, “I’m going on vacation.” Paul said, “Good, can I have the keys to your house?” The gentleman said, “Yep, what are you gonna do with my house?” “Well,” said Paul, “there’s a few things

ABOVE: Paul, Stephen, Paul Sr., & Dearran

BELOW: Shelby, Paul, & Danica

that need fixin’.” The gentleman then said, “There’s nothing wrong with it.” Paul explained that when he builds a home, he is committed to making sure the homeowner is always satisfied with the work they did.

Deciding who is going to build your home is an important decision; it matters that you choose a reputable builder with experience. At Sullivan Classic Homes, they want to make your dreams and ideas come to life. Whether it’s a small first-time home or an extravagant, milliondollar home, they will work with your plans, or help you design a home to your specifications that will fit your lifestyle. According to Paul, “There is nothing more satisfying than seeing a finished product made with the utmost care and quality, and handing over the keys to a happy, new homeowner.” Ultimately, it is their goal to make your dream home become a reality.

Sullivan Classic Homes believes in building a relationship that is based on trust and good communication, “I believe this is what sets us apart from the competition,” said Paul. They believe in treating their customers like family, and are with them every step of the way. Sullivan Classic Homes will listen to your needs, work with your budget, guarantee to build the highest quality home for you, and stand by their work for the lifetime of your new home. “We are building the foundation for your memories that will last a lifetime,” said Paul.

According to Paul, he is a man with very high morals and strong values. He is the father of five children: Dearran, the oldest, who now owns Sullivan Electrical Services; Paul, owner of Sullivan Signature Homes in Magnolia; Stephen, owner of Sullivan & Sons Electrical and Gutter Company in Buffalo; daughter Danica Reese, owner of Sweet Magnolia Learning Center in Madisonville; and Shelby Stallings, a tech at Urban Optics in College Station. Paul said he is very proud of all his children, and he loves spending time with them and his eight beautiful grandchildren. He is proud that he raised all his children by himself, and instilled good morals and values in them.

In 2000, he began doing the Cowboy Radio show on KSTAR, and had the opportunity to interview many celebrities like the Dixie Chicks, Kasey Musgraves, Ernest Borgnine, Larry Butler, Ben Johnson, Tom Selleck, Dale Evans, and many others! He also competed in Cowboy Poetry for about 17 years. According to Paul, he is a real cowboy, not a rodeo cowboy. Several years ago, he ran over a hundred head of cattle on his place and did it the

Paul pictured with his grandchildren. (back) Reid, Landon, Paul, Kendra, Christian (front) James, Logan, Evie, & Addy

To learn more about Sullivan Classic Homes, contact Paul Sullivan at psullivan@sullivanclassichomes. com, or call (936) 672-4713. They can share a review of a home gallery of photos and testimonials. You can also visit sullivanclassichomes on Facebook, or visit www. sullivanclassichomes.com.

cowboy way--with a couple of ropes, a horse, a branding iron, and a knife. In fact, one of his favorite paintings he owns is of a ‘line shack cowboy’ wearing a raincoat, sitting on his horse waiting with the cattle. He said in his cowboy days, he was known as “Line Shack Louie.” Needless to say, Paul has many interesting and entertaining stories to tell.

~ Matthew 4:19

The Marquez Crater

The largest known meteor impact crater in Texas is the Marquez crater, located in the northwest corner of Leon County in East Texas. For many years, the Marquez Dome was believed to be the surface expression of a salt dome. Around 1990, scientists re-interpreted the structure as a buried complex impact crater approximately 10 miles in diameter with a central uplift now partially exposed due to headward erosion of the postimpact cover. The central uplift is approximately 1.86 miles in diameter and the rocks within it have been uplifted nearly 4000 feet above their regional level. The crater rim remains buried and was confirmed by an investigation involving gravity and magnetic data over the central uplift and the surrounding area.

Creative Corner

Papa Loves You

Abi

Thornton

Gary Lynn Thornton was a large man in every conceivable way. Before his accident, he stood at 6 foot 5 inches tall, his voice filled every room, and you could follow his laugh like the beacon of a lighthouse. Gary was a working man, standing firm in the belief that “if a man does not work, he shall not eat.” He spent the majority of his life cutting and hauling pine trees across East Texas. When he wasn’t driving trucks, he was home with his children teaching them the values of hard work, the importance of a relationship with Jesus, and singing hymns and praises any chance he had. He was truly filled with the love of Christ.

In June of 1988, Gary lost control of his logging truck on a sharp curve. The accident resulted in the laceration of his spinal cord, leaving him paralyzed from the shoulders down. For a man who relied on driving and working with his hands, this accident was an indescribable tragedy. Wheelchair-bound with extremely limited mobility, he learned to navigate his new life while being fully dependent on the help of his family and friends for daily tasks. The reality of this life could have destroyed any joy and crushed any hope Gary had of a meaningful and fulfilling life; thankfully, Gary had something greater to live for than the pleasures of this earth. He

lived his life with joy and persistence, never once letting his disability hinder him from accomplishing his goals. With the help of his two sons and his daughter, he was able to continue working to the best of his ability. He attended his favorite sporting events (he was not one to miss a Huntington High basketball game), and more importantly, he continued to be a leader and provider for both his church and his family. He prayed over his congregation, led song services, and did whatever work he could to benefit the church. He was not worried about the trials of this life, because his hope was set in something much greater than himself.

When Gary was recovering in the hospital, the doctors informed him he would live no more than 15 years beyond his injury. However, God’s plan for Gary lasted twice that long. 30 years post-injury, Gary was able to see all three of his children graduate high school, get married, and was around for the births of his 9 grandchildren. He even got to witness his oldest granddaughter marry the love of her life. His youngest son became my father in the year 2000, and I was blessed with 18 years of love that should not have been allotted to me. My fondest memories include us going on “walks” through the neighborhood (where I would balance myself on

the back of his wheelchair), and we would go on a ride, waving and chatting with the neighbors. We did not listen to the radio in the van with him; we sang hymns and spoke of Jesus. There is not an aspect of life in the Thornton family that Gary Lynn (Papa) does not permeate.

Gary passed in 2018 after dealing with longterm health issues; however, his legacy will live on as long as my family is here to preserve it. I will live with the same joy and determination he did. I will show him to my children through my father and the stories we share, knowing that one day I will hear him say, “Papa loves you,” as I enter that beautiful City. He will take my hand and we will walk, singing our favorite hymns.

I’ll see you soon, when the roll is called up yonder.

Therefore, be kind and tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ also forgave you.--Eph. 4:32

By: John K. Rosemond www.rosemond.com

Solve Behavioral Issues with Good Leadership

The question parents most frequently ask begins, “What should I do when my child…?” and closes with a description of a vexing behavior, as in, “What should I do when my child bites the family dog?”

That particular choice of words reflects the contemporary belief that, for any given misbehavior, there is one specific method or consequence that will bring it to an end. This point of view holds discipline is accomplished via clever manipulation of reward and punishment. In answer to the demand, parenting experts have come up with timeout, “1-2-3 Magic,” reward charts, and other variations on the reward-punishment theme. There’s no evidence, however, that this has made for more well-behaved children. Today’s parents are dealing with not only more behavior problems, but also with more severe

behavior problems than any generation of parents in history.

The problem is the notion that discipline is a matter of the right application of consequences. This is a new idea, a product of the psychological parenting revolution of the 1960s. Prior to this, parents intuitively understood that discipline is the process by which parents turn a child into someone who will subscribe to their values and follow their lead.

The traditional view emphasized leadership, and the principles of effective leadership do not change from one context to another. The same principles that make for effective corporate or military leadership also make for effective parent leadership.

Good leadership consists of a positive guiding vision, decisiveness, self-confidence, and a commitment to help the people one is leading

bring out the very best in themselves. Effective leaders are not defined by how well they manipulate reward and punishment, but by how well they communicate. In that regard, they do not mince or waste words. Nor do they explain themselves at length. They obtain cooperation by inspiring, not punishing or rewarding. Because their grasp of command is natural (seemingly effortless), they do not have to resort to demanding. In that last regard, it is axiomatic that when obedience is demanded rather than commanded, loyalty will not result. Right consequences and methods—behavior modification—are helpful, even necessary, at times, but right consequences alone will not solve their problems. Right communication will.

Awesome Apps

We want to share some awesome apps with you. If you have an amazing app you’d like to share with our community, let us know online at postcardslive.com/share

EveryDollar

No matter what you want to do with your money, it starts with a budget. Say goodbye to that overwhelmed feeling—because you’re about to start taking control of your money. Budgeting doesn’t have to be boring and tedious. Seriously. You just need a budgeting app made with you in mind.

EveryDollar has helped over 10 million people learn to love budgeting by taking the stress out of planning and managing money.

I have been using EveryDollar for over 5 years. This app made it very easy to create a budget every single month. I have been able to pay off $12,000 in debt in 5 ½ months, and I have saved 8 months’ worth of expenses -Jasmine

Mason Grandchild of Billy & Bonnie Bric

Chloe Grandchild of Jay & Kathy

Vivian Williams Grandchild of Randy & Joyce Parrish

Brayden & Everly Grandchildren of John & Renee Spencer

Liam Hayes Petersen Grandchild of Brenda Petersen

The Grands

1 What is your grandparent name and does it have a special meaning? Granny. After my first grandchild was born, I always said to her, “This is Granny’s baby!”, so she started calling me Granny.

2 Number of grandchildren and age range?

I have two, both girls. One is 9, and one is 19.

3 Favorite activity with them?

Girl’s Day Out! Going shopping, out for a meal and a treat, and just sitting down talking to them. They will talk freely to Granny one-on-one.

4 Advice to other/new grandparents?

Teach your children and grandchildren the value of life—how to love, how to share, how to have compassion for others.

5 What’s your fondest memory of your grandparents?

How they loved their child. My grandmother only had one child. When he was in his seventies, she would still call him “Baby.” To this day, that’s the way we treat our boys.

6 What do you hope your grandkids remember about you?

Pearleen DENSON

My love—love and kindness—and family. One thing I try to instill in the younger ones gathered around my table is that family will be there when no one else will.

Wildlife Wonders

CAPTURE MYOPATHY

By Cheryl Conley

Lake Creek Preserve Board of Directors

I think we can all agree that you can’t believe everything you read on the internet but sometimes good information is provided and we can actually learn from it. This was the case when I read about capture myopathy (CM). Myopathy refers to diseases that affect muscles. I knew that high stress in animals can lead to their death but I didn’t know it had a name. With wildlife, this metabolic syndrome occurs from stress due to an intense pursuit, capture, restraint/handling, trapping or when transporting. It affects all species of all ages and sexes. The signs of CM start early on. The earliest sign is hyperthermia; the animal’s temperature rises and the animal begins to pant and sweat. The animal may have trouble breathing and have a fast heart rate. The animal may appear weak and/or have muscle tremors. It could collapse and die immediately or could take up to 4 weeks. Here’s how CM is classified:

1. Hyperacute – very rapid onset of death

2. Acute – death occurs in 2 to 4 days from heart muscle necrosis

3. Subacute – death occurs from kidney failure

4. Chronic – animals die over 2 to 4 weeks from heart failure and paralysis

So how exactly does CM affect the body of an animal? To make it as simple as possible, when an animal’s muscle is exerted from stress, the metabolism changes from aerobic, which means using oxygen, to anaerobic, which means it is using stored energy. This causes acidosis which is the build up of lactic acid. When there’s lactic acid in the bloodstream, pH in the body drops and that affects the heart output. If the heart doesn’t pump oxygen to the muscle, the muscle starts to die. Over the next 7 days, the muscle dies and releases myoglobin (breakdown product of muscle). Myoglobin damages the kidney, the lungs become congested and bleed, the liver becomes pale and swollen.

Unfortunately, if you have an animal exhibiting signs of CM, the prognosis is poor. There is nothing that can be done to save the animal and euthanasia is the kindest thing you can do.

You might be wondering why you need to know about CM. In most cases, it’s nothing the average person will ever encounter. However, if you are a homeowner and decide you want to trap and relocate a nuisance animal, you might want to take the following steps. I don’t condone this action but I realize people feel differently about it. A word of caution before setting a trap-make sure you know the laws. Some species are legally protected. In Texas, Texas Parks and Wildlife states that trapping and relocation of opossums, skunks and other

fur-bearing animals may occur, “if the person has received authorization from the TPWD department and the owner of the property where the release will occur.” They also state that a monthly report must be submitted showing the “number and kind of fur-bearers captured, location of release site, plus name and address of person authorized to release.” Texas Parks further state that it’s illegal to transport animals such as fox, skunk, coyote or raccoon within Texas. However, there is an exemption for peace officers, licensed pest management personnel and other authorized persons, as long as the animal is released in the same county, within 10 miles of where it was captured.

1. Make sure you have a plan. If you’re successful in catching the animal, where will you take it? Don’t release on someone else’s property without permission. Will you be able to check the cage regularly so the animal spends as little time as possible in the cage?

2. Keep the cage covered with a blanket or towel. It minimizes stress on the animal when they can’t see.

3. Keep the noise down. Limit conversation and please, no dogs.

4. If it’s hot outside, don’t put the cage in your trunk. It’s way too hot in there!

In my area, we’ve had a number of reports of kids harassing wildlife. Parents, please teach your children to respect all living things. Although it may seem fun to them, it could possibly cause that animal to die from CM.

From the Mouth of Babes

My teenage daughter, who I grew from scratch in my own body, saw me wearing my new boots and said, ”No. Hideous. Either they go, or I go.”

Don’t pressure me. I’m still deciding.

I generally think of myself as an okay father, but somehow I forgot to teach my two-year-old son what an owl was, and he has informed us they are called wood penguins.

Me: Who got pee on the floor?

My 5-year-old: Wait-did you say the floor or the wall?

Me: Floor.

5-year-old: Oh...not me, then.

Our 4-year-old: I like brushing my teeth.

Me: That’s good!

4-year-old: It makes them sharper.

Little Girl with her baby doll: My doll won’t stop crying.

Mom: Maybe it’s hungry. Girl: Mom! My doll is not real!

4-year-old: Can we get a kitten?

Me: I’m allergic. We can’t be in the same house.

4-year-old: Can you sleep outside?

by Wes Altom

Don’t Trim the Hedge

Recently, a friend offered a prayer in which he asked for “a hedge of protection” around me. While that was not the first time I heard this phrase, I don’t hear it frequently, as it is not commonly used in the church where I attend. So, I set out to learn of the origin and significance.

Then the Lord said to Satan, “Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil.” “Does Job fear God for nothing?” Satan replied. “Have you not put a hedge around him and his household and everything he has? You have blessed the work of his hands, so that his flocks and herds are spread throughout the land.

--Job 1:8-10

In the time of the Old Testament, wild animals were prevalent. Although stone walls could keep predators away from living areas and livestock, the walls would have to be very tall and would take a long time to make. Wood was not plentiful enough to waste on a

fence. Instead, a hedge of thorn bushes was often grown around a living compound. Thorn bushes would be too dense to crawl through, too sharp to chew through, and too deep for almost any animal to jump over. A hedge would also be a deterrent to sheep and goats seeking to escape their pen.

As Satan is compared to a “roaring lion” in scripture, the hedge comparison seems appropriate. And I personally find it comforting (and amusing) that Satan himself is the one who points out the effectiveness associated with such a hedge placed around a follower of God. Seems we all need a deeper appreciation for thorns. May your hedges be tall and thick.