Postcards
Lake Conroe
Publisher’s Post
Mirror, Mirror… Not Too Close!
October is the month of scary things—haunted houses, ghosts, goblins, and spiders bigger than they have any right to be. But I’ve recently discovered something even scarier than all of those combined: the magnifying mirror. I’ve always been content with my regular bathroom mirror. It gives me just the right amount of honesty. It lets me know if my hair is brushed, if my makeup is somewhat even, and (most importantly) if I’ve avoided the dreaded lipstick-on-the-teeth situation. That’s really all I need to know before heading out the door.
But the other day, for reasons I still can’t explain or remember, I pulled out the magnifying mirror. Big mistake. Huge. Suddenly, every wrinkle…every fine line…and every stray eyebrow hair I didn’t even know existed jumped out like a Halloween monster. I was staring at my own face in high-definition horror.
And here’s the kicker: I know I have recently rolled into my 60s, and I’ve made peace with the idea that life leaves its marks on us. But there’s something about seeing those marks magnified ten times over that just doesn’t feel necessary. So, I’ve made a new rule: nobody needs to get any closer to me than my bathroom mirror allows. That’s close enough—for your protection and for mine.
Of course, the truth is, those little lines mean I’ve laughed a lot, squinted at countless sunsets, and lived long enough to earn every single one. And maybe that’s the real lesson tucked inside the scare—sometimes we don’t need a magnifying glass to remind us of who we are.
Because some things should stay reserved for October scares… not for my morning routine. So if you walk up to talk to me and I take a step back, now you’ll know why!
From now on, all conversations with me must be held at bathroom-mirror distance
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Feedback
Texas Rivers
Please accept my sincere appreciation for sharing the feature I wrote about Texas rivers. It has only been in print for a couple of weeks, and I have already had numerous calls, including at least one person who has joined the Texas River Protection Agency as a result of the article being shared.
Dan Houlihan
Impressive Reach
Since Postcards shared the article on our program to make benches from recycled stretchable plastic, our donations have increased! We even recently received a call from an organization in St. Louis, Missouri who had read about us and our program in Postcards and wanted information on how to get started with the program for their group. Your magazine has an impressive reach! Thanks for valuing community.
Noah Speer, Huntsville Lions Club
Speaking the Truth
Thank you to Karen for speaking from the heart at the CASA Amplifying Advocacy Conference.
Summed up, the traits it takes to foster and adopt a child are: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
Isn't that the truth? At least that's what I got from your talk.
Tonie Sikes
How a dedicated non-profit is transforming the lives of exotic birds in captivity. P COMMUNITY BUILDERS
Magnolia Exotic Bird Sanctuary
STORY &
BY TRACY DOWNEY
Nestled in the heart of Magnolia, Texas, the Magnolia Exotic Bird Sanctuary (abbreviated as MEBS) stands as a beacon of hope for exotic birds in urgent need of compassionate care.
Founded by siblings Sharon Markland,
Rick Markland, and Candace Tanner, this remarkable 501(c)(3) non-profit is devoted to creating a haven for birds facing extraordinary adversity such as illegal trafficking, significant health issues, or having lost their
beloved human companions. Postcards spoke with Communications Director Candace Tanner to discuss the importance of the sanctuary and what people can do to save the third most popular pet from extinction.
PHOTOS
Share your sister Sharon’s inspiration for MEBS. What is she like?
They love her. Everyone calls her the ‘mayor’ because she’s physically on the ground, always rehabilitating these birds. It started in the 80s with Sharon’s cockatoo “Sammy” that her husband bought for her. He lived with her till he passed away. By 2004, Sharon started working for her father-in-law’s bird breeding business and raised baby cockatiels and African gray parrots. Soon after, Sharon realized that she had a calling that went way beyond breeding birds.
Sharon said, ‘This is not what I am supposed to do,’ so she started rescuing birds brought into the Houston SPCA. At that time, she had 42 rescued birds, and it just kept growing.”
The current size of MEBS is 1.33 acres with eight aviaries, three temperature-controlled bird buildings, and three storage buildings. With donated funds, MEBS plans to repurpose one of their buildings exclusively for adoptable birds. This project is expected to cost $30,000.
You started working for MEBS in 2014?
Yes, I was still working a full-time job, and part time for MEBS. Now, I work full time on the business end as a grant writer. With grant writing, there’s a whole language you must learn. We work really hard in bringing in the funds to care for all these birds.
Tanner travels from San Diego to Magnolia TX three to four times a year, updating their social media, and website. She also raises funds by writing grants while organizing four fundraisers a year for the non-profit.
Where do these birds come from, and how many can MEBS hold?
They came from Hurricane Harvey, the Houston SPCA, out of state, elderly people who can no longer take care of them, natural disasters—everywhere. Right now, MEBS has 164 birds. At one time, we had 220 small birds from a law enforcement seizure. On average, there are between four to six rescues per week.
These birds are often between 25-30 years old. That makes them senior citizens, right?
Yes, their health issues are similar to what happens to humans, like heart and vascular disease, arthritis; it’s pretty traumatic.
And then where do they go? There’s nowhere for them to go except for us.
The Sanctuary’s Mission: “To protect and pre vent the suffering of parrots living in captivity.”
At MEBS, each bird’s story is unique. Many birds range from 25 to 30 years old, bearing the scars of past neglect, health challenges, or emotional trauma. Some arrive with chronic illnesses requiring lifelong medical attention, while others, once swept up in the shadowy currents of the black market, are finally free to experience gentle hands and genuine care for the first time.
There's nowhere for them to go except for us. ”
The Sibling Brain Trust of MEBS poses for a rare photo at their annual spring fundraiser May 17, 2025. From left, Sharon Markland (77), Rick Markland (72), and Candace Tanner (70).
Sylvester – A seven-year-old, Keel-billed Toucan was purchased from a pet store in Austin for $5000.00. Unable to care for him properly, siblings Rick & Sharon Markland drove to Austin to bring him to the sanctuary in 2023.
Sylvester’s story:
Tanner shared, “Sylvester is a sevenyear-old keel-bill toucan that loves fresh blueberries. We got a call from a mom in Austin whose 19-year-old-autistic son bought him for five thousand at a pet store, but he never intended to keep the bird because his cage was too small. MEBS has kept Sylvester for over two years. I have found a specialist in Louisiana that rescues and rehabilitates toucans. Soon, Sylvester will be transported to Louisiana, where he’ll spend the rest of his life in a large aviary equipped for his species. He’s had a great life, but he will eventually have an even better life.”
Quinn’s story:
“Quinn is a Moluccan Cockatoo, about 25 to 30 years old, purchased for $800 on Houston Craigslist,” said Tanner. “His new owner knew there was something terribly wrong with him and took Quinn to the vet immediately. He was given fluids, medications, and had both his wings wrapped. His owner realized that neither they nor that vet could take proper care of him, and they reached out to MEBS.” After receiving Quinn, Sharon immediately took him to her avian vet. Tanner recalls, “He had suffered the worst case of abuse the vet and Sharon had ever seen. Quinn had many broken bones (old and new), sepsis, malnutrition, and lacerations. He lives his days in comfort, with care and medications from Sharon.”
Confronting the hidden crisis of parrot trafficking in Texas
According to the American Veterinary Medicine Association, due to high demand, parrot trafficking is estimated to net between $45-50 billion per year. Birds on the black market are cheaper than those from legitimate breeders. Poachers capture baby birds by cruel means by using mist nests and birdlime, a particular glue that’s spread on tree branches. Many of these birds are kept in unsanitary conditions, injured upon capture, and sold on Craigslist. In 2023, Savannah Nicole Valdez of Houston was sentenced to fifteen years in federal prison, followed by three years’ probation for selling keel-billed toucans and yellow-headed Amazon parrots on Craigslist. Both birds are federally protected under the Endangered Species Act. Tanner cautions about purchasing birds on Craigslist, “There’s a lot of scammers out there; beware.”
Despite the vivid beauty and remarkable intelligence of parrots, their plight in Texas often goes unnoticed. Many trafficked birds suffer untold hardships—torn from their native habitats, smuggled in inhumane
Quinn: Moluccan Cockatoo - 25 to 30 years old, was purchased in Houston for $800.00 on Craigslist. Quinn had suffered the worst case of abuse their vet and Sharon had ever seen. With the owner unable to care for him, he now lives his days with Sharon in comfort, with care and medications.
conditions, and deprived of proper care. Even after rescue, these birds face uphill battles against disease, malnutrition, and psychological distress.
How the community can help Running a sanctuary for aging, sick, or traumatized birds is a monumental undertaking. It costs upwards of $1500 to care for each bird each year. Said Tanner, “Let’s do the math. $1500 x 164 birds a year. That’s $246,000 a year including land taxes, water, electricity, food, and labor. Just consider the electric bill. Summer electric bills average $600 per month. Winter is between $1200-1500 per month. The annual average cost for electricity is $10,800. We also spend a lot of money on fresh fruit and veggies too, so yeah, it adds up.”
MEBS relies on the generosity of donors to provide medical care, enrichment, nutritious food, and sanctuary maintenance. Community support enables the sanctuary to accept more birds in need and to expand outreach programs that educate the public about parrot welfare and the dangers of the illegal pet trade.
• Donate: Contributions of any size go directly to help fund veterinary treatments, specialized diets, and habitat improvements.
• Volunteer: From daily care to enrichment activities and event organization, volunteers are the lifeblood of the sanctuary. Email mebssanctuary@yahoo.com.
• Spread Awareness: Share the sanctuary’s story on IG @ birdslivesmatter2
• In-Kind Gifts: Contact the sanctuary for a list of current needs.
For more information on how to support Magnolia Exotic Bird Sanctuary, visit their website at magnoliaexoticbirdsanctuary.org.
For boarding your birds, reach out directly at (619)3791779. Every gift helps give birds in need a chance to heal and to love once more.
SCAN TO DONATE
Dear Gabby
Welcome back to the October edition of the Dear Gabby advice column. Our federal holiday this month is Columbus Day (or Indigenous Peoples’ Day, your choice). Personally, I think old Chris was a little late to the America party. Either way, it falls on Monday, October 13. It’s fall, y’all! The temperature just went from 90 to 55 like it saw a state trooper! It’s officially “wear a sweater in the morning and regret it in the afternoon” weather. Have a safe and happy Halloween, and save some of the candy for the kiddos. Send me your questions by clicking on Dear Gabby at www.PostcardsLive.com/share.
DEAR GABBY
What is up at the DMV office? I arrived with my renewal notice and my original birth certificate. Apparently, that was not good enough. They wanted a CERTIFIED COPY of my birth certificate! Since when is any copy more official than an original? Go figure!
Justice Junkie
DEAR JJ
It beats me. When I made the first trip to renew my driver license recently, I came home empty-handed. Requirements are getting tough for older drivers. Apparently, I forgot to bring my umbilical cord and a copy of the Texas Declaration of Independence. I was successful on my second trip. I don’t drive much anymore (you’re welcome), but it looks good in my wallet.
Gabby
CONFIDENTIAL TO “SMARTER THAN I LOOK":
DEAR GABBY
I used to think the jokes about walking into a room and forgetting why you were there were funny. When it starts happening to you, it’s hard to see the humor in it! I’ve reached the age where I can’t remember if I’ve forgotten something. Can you relate?
Drawing A Blank
DEAR DAB
Oh, yes, you are not alone! My mind is like someone emptied the kitchen junk drawer onto a trampoline. When I took my bath yesterday, I forgot to get undressed! Fortunately, I also forgot to turn on the taps. Then last night, when I’d been in bed for about 20 minutes, I heard the pizza guy cough in the living room. I’d just come into my bedroom to get my purse! Feel better?
A very smart man, Albert Einstein, said it best. “Everyone is a genius. But, if you judge a fish on its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing it is stupid.”
Gabby
Advertiser Anniversaries
Submitted by: Brian B. Smith, CFP®, Bryan M. Masten, CFP® & Riley W.
Understanding the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act of 2025” and What it Means for Taxes and Savings
In July 2025, the U.S. government passed a major law often called the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” (officially, Public Law 119-21). This law introduces big changes in taxes, deductions, and even savings for families. Here’s what you need to know in plain language:
1. Permanent Tax Breaks from the 2017 Law
The new law makes permanent many of the tax perks from the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. These include the larger standard deduction and the same seven income tax brackets (ranging from 10% to 37%).
2. New Deductions for Everyday Earners (Temporary from 2025–2028)
The bill introduces several new ways to lower your taxable income:
• Tips: If you work in jobs that rely on tips (like servers or baristas), you can deduct up to $25,000 of your cash tips from your income—if you earn under $150,000 (or $300,000 for married couples).
• Overtime Pay: You can deduct up to $12,500 (or $25,000 for joint filers) from the extra pay you earn from overtime.
• Auto Loan Interest: If you took a loan to buy a personal vehicle (not leased), you can deduct up to $10,000 in interest—if your income isn’t too high.
3. Extra Help for Seniors
If you’re 65 or older, the law gives you a bonus: an extra $6,000 deduction from your taxable income (or $12,000 for married couples where both are 65+). This is on top of the regular senior deduction and applies whether or not you itemize your taxes.
4. “Trump Accounts”—Savings for Kids
The law introduces a new savings tool called “Trump Accounts.” Parents, relatives, or even other people can contribute up to $5,000 per year into these accounts for children born between 2025 and 2028. These accounts act like a traditional IRA but non-deductible— and when the child turns 18, the funds roll over into a real traditional IRA. Plus, newborns also get $1,000 of federal seed money to kick-start the account.
Why It Matters
Putting these details together:
• Tax relief: The permanent cuts and temporary deductions can help most people, especially seniors and service workers, pay less in income tax.
• Savings boost: The new Trump Accounts encourage saving money from a young age, which could grow over time.
But it’s important to remember that many of these deductions only last through 2028. Also, not everyone qualifies—income limits apply, and some changes only help certain groups. At Global Financial Partners, we can help make sense of complex topics. If you have questions regarding your financial goals or situation, we would like to help. Please reach out to us for a complimentary consultation by calling 936-294-021. We want to be “Your Financial Partner for Life”
Smith, CFP®
Tasty Bites
Pork Chops Italiano
INGREDIENTS
1 tsp olive oil
2 cups sliced mushrooms
2 Tbs olive oil
6 (¾” thick) bone-in pork loin chops
1 cup chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, crushed
1 (14.5 oz) can diced Italian tomatoes, undrained
1 tsp dried basil
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp ground black pepper
½ cup water (optional)
6 large green or red bell pepper slices
DIRECTIONS
Step 1: Heat 1 teaspoon oil in a skillet over medium heat. Stir in mushrooms; cook and stir until tender, 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and set aside until needed.
Step 2: Heat 2 tablespoons oil in the skillet over medium heat. Add pork chops and cook until browned, 3 ½ to 5 minutes per side; transfer to a plate. Drain all but 1 tablespoon drippings from the skillet.
Step 3: Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook and stir until onion has softened and turned translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Add pork chops and simmer until tender and no longer pink in the center, about 45 minutes, adding water if mixture becomes too dry. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of each pork chop should read at least 145 degrees.
Step 5: Place a bell pepper slice on top of each pork chop. Add reserved mushrooms and continue to simmer until peppers are tender, 5 to 10 minutes.
Slow Cooker Swamp Potatoes
INGREDIENTS
3 lbs gold potatoes, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
1 small onion, chopped
1 1/2 Tbs olive oil
1 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning
1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
1 lb fresh green beans, cut into 2-inch pieces
1 packet onion soup mix
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 cup butter
DIRECTIONS
Step 1: Add potatoes and chopped onion to the bottom of a slow cooker. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning. Toss to coat evenly.
Step 2: Layer the sliced smoked sausage and green beans on top. Sprinkle with onion soup mix and garlic powder. Place pieces of butter evenly over the top.
Step 3: Cover and cook on low until the potatoes are tender and everything is well flavored, 6-7 hours, stirring a few times throughout the process and just before serving.
Glorious Grandchildren
Grandchild
Grandchild
Kya
Great Grandchild of Janice Adams
Bennett Ike Stepsnski
of Terry & Ike Fluellen
Eliza Jane Leach
of Walt & Kim Stabell
Creative Corner
Pathway
by Rick Smith
to Peace
Hands folded in prayer as I knelt by the bed, Hoping God will hear the words about to be said.
Father forgive me for the things that I’ve done, I want to believe in Your one and only Son.
I had a feeling that He wanted to be told so I confessed to temptations that went uncontrolled.
I went on and on about the chances I blew, not realizing then that He already knew.
I started my prayer with a heart full of shame, but after sharing it all with God I didn’t feel the same.
I lifted my head and opened my eyes, feeling such great peace that only He provides.
Miguel & Cruz Hoot Pulido first day of 11th grade
Gabriel Stanbery & Sarah Seale congratulations on their recent engagement
Sonny Smith celebrating her 1st Birthday
The Garden Post
Happy Fall, Y'all! It is Planting Time
Ty favorite planting season is definitely fall. The heat has decreased, rain has returned, and insect/ disease season is minimal. Plants such as azaleas, camellias, shade trees (and non-drought tolerant plants) will have six additional months to establish a hardy root system before the heat of summer returns. And, it is easier working conditions!
The most asked question every fall is, “When do the pansies come in, and when can I plant?” As temperatures drop to 85 and below, pansy season will begin. If exposed to 90-degree weather, these beauties “bolt” and become very leggy, requiring you to pinch them back to 4” tall and start again (same as cool weather veggies…cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, and cabbage).
These sun loving annuals are hardy and do well into the low double digits. Unfortunately, pansies are not deer proof, so plant accordingly. Pansies are available in a variety of series and colors (the huge pansies are in the colossal series). Plant with one tablespoon of blood meal under each starter, and you will be amazed at the difference in bloom color and stalk thickness to hold up big blooms. Pansies, like hibiscus, do not
Kim Bius President, Kim's Home & Garden Center
with no issues. Dianthus, like the pansy, come in every color and bloom size (hybridization has come a long way since this gardener first started). Also like the pansy, dianthus respond well to blood meal (10-0-0) to keep blooming and looking their best. Place one tablespoon under each starter plant for sturdier stalks and larger bloom size. Yes, this is an exception to the rule that most blooming color responds to higher phosphorous—not these guys.
Let us not forget the grand harbinger of fall, the chrysanthemum. Chrysanthemums are often referred to as “mums.” Gardeners either love them or hate them. This gardener loves them. Mums are tough sun loving perennials, deer proof, and contain a natural insect repellant (pyrethrum). Mums bloom for six to seven weeks plus in fall and again in spring. Mums have high water requirements but need excellent drainage and will require heavy pruning after the last bloom set fades. Each season, mums will put on two to three bloom sets. If you look carefully under the spent blooms, you will find a second and third set of blooms. Remove the spent blooms with shears, and the second set of buds will go into bloom in a week or two. Mums rarely bloom into Thanksgiving but are enjoyed
Breakfast, Biscuits, and Brenda:
A Southern Welcome in Andalusia
One Texas couple’s journey to The Cottle House proves the best roads are the ones that lead to homemade breakfast and porch conversations.
MaybeALTOM
it’s because I grew up in a small town, but there’s just something about them that tugs at my heart. The way folks wave from front porches. The hum of life that’s not in a rush. The feeling that time slows down just enough for you to actually catch your breath. That’s the kind of welcome we found in Andalusia, Alabama — a town as charming as a front porch swing and twice as comforting.
STORY AND PHOTOS BY KAREN
Getting there
Getting to Andalusia isn’t exactly a quick hop off the interstate. It’s a little off the beaten path — the kind of place you choose on purpose. And believe me, it’s worth it. We made a long weekend of it, flying into Florida’s Northwest Beaches airport and making the just-shy-of-two-hour drive across state lines. By the time we reached that quiet stretch of road leading into town, the stress of the week had already started to melt away.
We arrived near the end of March, and the azaleas all along the drive were a sight to behold. They grew wild and huge — the kind of blooms that nearly swallowed the front of houses in a sea of pinks and purples. Andalusia feels like a page out of a Southern storybook. The streets are lined with old trees, friendly folks, and there is a sense that people still take time to visit.
The Cottle House
“We found our way to The Cottle House, a beautifully restored one-story home built in 1905 (with a wide wraparound porch and rocking chairs) nestled just outside of town. The Cottle House is owned by none other than Brenda Gantt — Southern cook, internet favorite, and Alabama treasure. But if you’re expecting a celebrity experience, you’ll be surprised. Brenda isn’t about fanfare. She’s about faith, food, and making folks feel welcome — and she does all three beautifully.
Wes and I stayed in “The Cottage,” a snug one-room hideaway behind the main house. It’s filled with antique charm, including a clawfoot tub at the foot of the bed — and I couldn’t have picked a better spot to watch the sunset than from the rocking chairs on the porch.
Inside the main house, every room is filled with vintage treasures. The kind of antiques that make you want to wander, linger, and imagine who once sat in that chair or drank from that china cup.
But the real magic happens at breakfast.
The breakfast experience
There were 12 guests when we were there, and Mrs. Brenda makes breakfast three mornings a week. With the required two-night minimum stay,
The Cottage
Inside shot of the "cozy" cottage complete with clawfoot tub
Guests gather for breakfast and a quick rundown of instructions from Brenda
A pan of Brenda's delicious homemade country biscuits.
you’re guaranteed at least one morning around her table. And really, isn’t that why we go?
Guests came from Ohio, Tennessee, and a whole crew of us from Texas. One lady from Alto proudly declared herself Brenda’s biggest fan. Mrs. Brenda welcomed us all, then shared the morning’s menu: grits (I had no idea they could taste that good), locally made smoked link sausage, scrambled eggs, biscuits, gravy, and fried apple pies.
It was a rainy morning, and Brenda laughed as she told us, “My biscuits didn’t rise like they usually do. But when things like that happen, that’s just the Lord keeping us in our place so we don’t get too proud of ourselves.”
Before we filled our plates, she led us in prayer. And Wes and I still remember how she began it: “Heavenly Father, I thank you for today. It’s gloomy; it’s gray; it’s dark; it’s a bad hair day, but Lord, I pray that you will put joy in our hearts, and you can be our sunshine today. I pray we will be a blessing to others.”
After breakfast, Brenda lingered for pictures, cookbook signings, and plenty of stories. She’s every bit as genuine as you’d hope — joyful, gracious, and wise. One guest joked that her family makes fun of her for watching Brenda every morning. “They go around saying, ‘What would Brenda do?’” she laughed. Brenda didn’t miss a beat. “You tell them to kiss my foot!” she said, sending the table into a fit of laughter.
Exploring and reflecting
We also explored a little more of Andalusia. One afternoon we stopped at the Lost Pizza Company, where we ran into a few of our fellow guests. The pizza was great, the decor was funky and fun, and it gave us another chance to visit with new friends. We made a pass through the local Piggly Wiggly to pick up some of Brenda’s favorite White Lily flour and a couple of packages of Y’all Peach Tea. And the cutest little Dairy Queen you ever saw? Yes, we stopped there too.
One of my favorite parts of Brenda’s story is how it all started. “It was April 2020 during the pandemic,” she told me. “Some guys at my church wanted me to teach their wives to cook! I told them I didn’t have time, but one day I was cooking lunch for my family and thought, ‘I know what I’ll do. I’ll just video it.’” She put it on her personal Facebook page. The rest is history. “I think there’s about 4 million people on that page now.”
Brenda often says her love of cooking started as a child. “My mother always insisted I was in the kitchen with her, even as a little girl. I would stir the grits or set the table. That’s how I learned to cook.”
She’s quick to point out that not everyone had that experience. “A lot of millennials were shooshed out of the kitchen when their mother was cooking. That was when women had started working outside the home more, and she didn’t have time to fool with you and get dinner on the table. So, some people never learned.”
Her cookbooks are filled not only with recipes but personal touches. “All the stuff in those pictures? That’s my stuff. My plates; my old, cracked platter; whatever. I did it for my grandchildren. When I’m
gone, I want them to remember. ‘Oh, that was her old pot…’”
Her newest book, The Southern Mirror, isn’t a cookbook at all. It’s a collection of reflections and Southern memories meant for the coffee table. And she encourages everyone to do the same: “I think everybody needs to do a cookbook for your grandchildren. Even if it’s handwritten, with photos of your momma’s handwriting. It’s important.”
Before her video fame, Brenda was a schoolteacher. “I was real strict,” she admitted. “But when you’re strict and you’re protecting those children, they feel safe. They know if something goes wrong, Mrs. Gantt will take care of it. They’re just kids. And that’s how it is with your own kids and grandkids, too. You’re the adult. You have to take charge.”
We came to Andalusia looking for a relaxing weekend. We left with full bellies, full hearts, and a few more stories to add to our own family collection.
It might take a little effort to get there, but The Cottle House is the kind of place you remember. And Brenda Gantt is the kind of person who reminds you what real hospitality tastes like. So, if you ever find yourself needing peace, comfort, and the best biscuit you’ve ever eaten, go ahead and make the drive. You won’t leave hungry.
Brenda was happy to receive a gift from Texas, the family cookbook from the kitchen of my mom, Betty "DeeDee" Stevens
Sudoku Marketspace
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OCT 4
JACOB RYAN MARSHALL
NOV 1 THE JON KOTT BAND
OCT 11
GARY KYLE & THE SILVERADO BAND
NOV 8 THE STRING BENDERS
OCT 18 LEVEL ONE BAND
NOV 15
KRYSTAL KING & TAYLOR HUGHES
OCT 25 THE SHADES OF GRAY
NOV 22 BAMA BREEZE SOUNDS
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Things My Granddaddy Said
Careful is the naked man climbin’ a barbwire fence.
It don’t take no genius to spot a goat in a flock of sheep.
Broke is what happens when you let your yearnings get ahead of your earnin’s. The old pipe gives the sweetest smoke.
You can’t trust your dog to watch your food.
You have to kiss a lot of toads before you find your prince.
As I grow older, more and more often I find myself saying, “Like my Granddaddy used to say…” In an effort to keep some of these old sayings alive, we are sharing them here. Please feel free to share yours with us!
Publisher Karen Altom and her Granddaddy J.C. Farris
Senior Benefits Consulting
Helping clients navigate fall open enrollment— simply and for free.
The Changing Landscape of Medicare Enrollment
According to AARP, more than 36 million beneficiaries are expected to review or change their coverage during the 2025–2026 fall open enrollment period, which starts on Oct 15 and runs through Dec 7, marking the largest number to date. Due to longer approval timelines and bureaucratic red tape, the high demand for Medicare consulting agents is expected to continue growing. Medicare Advantage plans now represent over half of beneficiaries, about 54% (34.1 million of 62 million) as of 2025. Tammy Rush, owner of Senior Benefits Consulting, sat down with Postcards to explain what’s changing—and how to keep things simple (and free) for seniors.
“We don’t charge for our services— whether someone enrolls in a plan or not,” said Rush, who started in insurance in 1999. Certified to offer Medicare Advantage since 2019, she renews her certifications annually and
advises on Medicare Supplements, Advantage Plans, and prescription drug options. Partnered with Senior Health Services in Tomball, Rush operates Senior Benefits Consulting, LLC off SH105 in Montgomery, with two office administrators handling phone lines and 16 licensed agents. Regularly, they appear on The Michael Berry Show
(iHeartRadio) and KHOU 11’s Great Day Houston with Deborah Duncan. Demand keeps growing. “Seniors want to retire at 65, but many can’t because of the economy,” Rush said, noting that some lost pensions during COVID and are delaying retirement closer to 70. “They’re living on Social Security and what’s left in their 401(k)s.”
STORY AND PHOTOS BY TRACY DOWNEY
The 90-Day Rule
“I want it to be simple,” Rush said. “I don’t want people to feel pressured.” Enrolling in Medicare can take a couple of months to get approved, which may result in coverage gaps if the timing is off. “Apply three months before your 65th birthday,” said Rush—the 90-day window cushions government delays— especially for those managing severe health conditions or expensive medications. To delay Medicare past 65 without incurring penalties, retirees must have creditable employer coverage from a company with 20 or more employees. “COBRA and most retiree plans do not qualify for delaying Part B.”
Medicare Parts A & B
Original Medicare consists of two parts. Part A is for inpatient services like hospitalization and skilled nursing. Part B is medical for things like doctors, therapy, labs, and diagnostic tests. Having original Medicare is not enough coverage due to the gaps and out of pocket expenses not being capped. Rush urges researching coverage gaps. Her fiancé, wellness coach Jason Anderson, added: “Cancer-related costs and certain procedures may not be fully covered. Medicare also doesn’t cover long-term care or many assisted-living options.” He noted Rush helps families find solutions that fit their needs.
Medicare Advantage: Pros and cons
“Medicare Advantage plans aren’t for everybody,” Rush said. “But for many, they work—and save money.” She cautions against calling television ads and 800 numbers to talk to someone. Rather, she encourages you find someone local to work with who can educate you on all of your options, the differences between them, and how they work. Also, remember to be open-minded when looking at plans and don’t choose something simply because you know someone who did
it. Everyone has different medical needs, medications, and budgets. Just because something doesn’t work for one person doesn’t mean it isn’t the right option for another. All plans are not created equal.
“Flex” Grocery Cards
“I wish people wouldn’t call TV ads,” Rush said. “Those call centers aren’t
checking everything. The advertisements for the grocery cards are a way to get you to call in. You have to financially qualify for those as they have income limitations that are quite low. But once they get you one the phone, they are pretty convincing about offering plans. You’ll never hear from them again, and many times they are not enrolling people in the proper plans.”
Back: Jason Anderson & Lainey Carnley Front: Misty Gustafaso & Tammy Rush
Why Use an Independent Consultant?
With hundreds of plan combinations, enrolling alone is confusing—and mistakes are expensive. Independent agents offer free consultations and match plans to individual doctors and drugs to avoid high-pressure sales tactics. “I am not saying get on YouTube and search there—because anyone can go out and make a Medicare video; it’s not hard,” warns Rush. “And most of them are biased.” Many low-income clients live on under $1,600/month, making it vital to budget for premiums, deductibles, and drug costs to avoid surprises. Middle-income beneficiaries do not qualify for financial assistance programs because their income is too high, but not high enough to afford annual premiums. “Medicare advantage plans and the cost of Medicare changes every year. We want to get you the most value for the best price.”
Medicare Enrollment Tips
1. Apply 3 months early File within three months before 65 to avoid delays and gaps.
2. Avoid 1-800 call centers They often push generic plans that may not fit your doctors or drugs.
3. Review annually Formularies and networks change every year—don’t assume last year’s plan is still best.
4. Know A vs. B
Part A: inpatient hospital. Part B: outpatient/medical. Most retirees need both.
5. Weigh Medicare Advantage For many, Advantage plans cut costs and add benefits—but compare carefully.
Education & Outreach
Rush’s team offers classes in person and online. Recently, she held sessions at Bryan/College Station and Round Top. Increasingly, her 16 trained agents handle onsite education for employers. “We work with all employers with employees turning 65—explaining the pros and cons of staying on group cover age. Sometimes it’s cheaper for both the worker and the employer when they move to Medicare.”
Life
The work is overwhelming and intense—from October 15 through December 7, Rush affirms the phone rings off the hook. “During enrollment, I work 12–14-hour days for 8–10 weeks—back-to-back appointments, sometimes until 8:30 p.m.,” Rush said. “We don’t want to turn anyone away—just please be patient; there will be wait times.” Amid the rush, there’s joy: Rush is marrying fiancé Jason Anderson, a retired ironworker and wellness coach, in December. “He gets 100% credit for teaching me how to meditate,” she laughed.
Consultants like Tammy Rush play a vital role in helping retirees avoid costly mistakes and coverage gaps as plans evolve. Fall Open Enrollment runs Oct. 15–Dec. 7. For more information, call (832)-334-1124, log on to their website at retirementmadesimple4u. com, or email her at tammy@retirementmadesimple4u.com.
Charlie
loved by
Angie & Pop
Mardie loved by Cassie Cookie
loved by Mike B.
Sadie
loved by Pam & Johnny Langston
Shayna Thomas of Madisonville, TX appeared in the bright lights of Times Square on Sept 6 as part of the annual National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) Presentation. The video includes children, teens, and adults with Down Syndrome from all 50 states and 11 countries. The photo was selected from more than 2,600 entries, and Shayna and family made the trip for the event.
Aubrey Whatley enjoyed the 4th of July fireworks in Huntsville!
October 2025
COLLEGE STATION “Mrs. Doubtfire” opastickets.org
Keith Urban woodlandscenter.org
30
MISSION Texas Renaissance Festival texrenfest.com
“Rumors” shsu.universitytickets.com
NEW
Gruene Music and Wine Festival gruenemusicandwinefest.org
CONROE “Carrie: The Musical” owentheatre.com
TOMBALL Spooktacular Second Saturday tomballtx.gov 17-Nov 2
CONROE “The Addams Family” crightontheatre.org 17-26
PALESTINE “Bonnie and Clyde— The Musical” thetexastheater.com 17-18 WOODVILLE Harvest Festival heritage-village.org
21 COLLEGE STATION Soweto Gospel Choir: “Peace” opastickets.org
21-Nov 2
HOUSTON “Putnam County Spelling Bee” tuts.org 23-25
GRAPELAND
Salmon Lake Park Bluegrass Festival slpbluegrass.com
23-25
HUNTSVILLE “Significant Other” shsu.universitytickets.com
24-25
MADISONVILLE Blues, Brews, & BBQ madisonvilletexas.gov 25 PALESTINE Hot Pepper Festival palestinechamber.org
31-Nov 2
COLDSPRING Haunted Jail facebook.com/hauntedjailcoldspring
Mustard Seed Moments
By Wes Altom
Deep Water can be Scary
No, our topic is not me reliving my childhood trauma of swim lessons…but something more thoughtful.
One of the greatest benefits of technology is the ability to easily transfer between or compare different Bible translations of a particular passage of interest. I do this quite frequently—to help carry me deeper into the Word and add perspective I might not gain from a single version. Most know the Lord’s prayer by heart in a traditional sense, but take a look at the version at the end of this article.
There are multiple nuggets to pull from here…but our topic comes from the line: “Keep us safe from ourselves and the Devil.” Take a moment to fully absorb the sting from that.
“Self” gets top billing here…over the Devil himself! The truth definitely hurts with this one. We don’t like to talk (or even think) about it, but we cannot deny it. Even Anton Lavey, author of the Satanic Bible and founder of the Church of Satan, knew this concept. He was famously quoted as saying, “If you want to worship Satan, worship self.”
We are each a “work in progress,” but understanding this
concept—as well as looking at the current state of the world around us—should drive us each to strive hard for continued spiritual growth and closeness to our Lord.
So…the next time you pray for a hedge of protection around you, remember to also pray for protection from the threat that’s already inside the hedge.
Our Father in heaven, Reveal who you are.
Set the world right; Do what’s best—
as above, so below.
Keep us alive with three square meals.
Keep us forgiven with you and forgiving others.
Keep us safe from ourselves and the Devil.
You’re in charge!
You can do anything you want!
You’re ablaze in beauty!
Yes. Yes. Yes.
Matthew 6:9-13 (The Message)
Don’t Let Hackers Haunt Your Finances!
Protecting your accounts starts with awareness.
Use strong passwords
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