Wimberley Valley News & Views - Vol. 28 Issue 11 - November 2025
POSTAL PATRON
Editor
Publisher
Cyle Elizabeth Johnson
Assistant Editor Catarina Evangeline Johnson
Cover Dagny St. Gines
The Wimberley Valley News & Views, a subsidiary of Valentino Publications, is mailed monthly to all street addresses serviced by the Wimberley Post Office in 78676.
“ACKNOWLEDGING THE GOOD THAT YOU ALREADY HAVE IN YOUR LIFE IS THE FOUNDATION FOR ALL ABUNDANCE.” ― ECKHART TOLLE
Voila! The most wonderful time of the year has arrived. And things don’t seem to slow down from now until Christmas Eve. Gracing our publisher’s page, we have Nancy Elliott’s Blue Agave, signifying the return of the Blue Agave Art Fair on November 22 and 23 at the Wimberley Community Center. Part of the magic of Wimberley is that there’s always something to do (just check out our Calendar), new friends to make, something to inspire you. Indeed, ‘tis the season to count our blessings, reinstate or deepen our gratitude practice, and let those we cherish know how we feel. It’s a time for gathering and a time for giving –even if it’s just your time. This is your cue to savor the present moment before it becomes a memory.
I love the simplicity of Eckhart Tolle’s message. There may always be the next dream to chase, but acknowledging all the good right before us – if only breath in our lungs – is, in fact, what abundance is. Spiritually, the idea of abundance is a deeply rooted peace and sense of inner fulfillment, an inherent connection that extends beyond material wealth. Recognize the present fullness of life, cultivate and nurture gratitude daily, and trust that we have everything needed for a joyful existence.
Matthew 6:26, “Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them.”
If the birds don’t worry, why should I?
Cyle Elizabeth Johnson, Editor
Nancy Elliot
WIMBERLEY VALLEY COMMUNITY CALENDAR
• Every 1st Mon. Wimberley Apron Society meets at Emily Ann Annex Bldg. Set-up at 5:30, program 6-8pm. Exchange ideas on healthy sustainable lifestyles, gardening, cooking, homesteading. See Facebook page for more.
• Every 2nd Mon. Wimberley Valley Art League meets at the Wimberley Community Center at 6:30-8:30pm. Visit WimberleyArtLeague.org
• Every 2nd Mon. Wimberley 4H meets during the school year at VFW Hall, 401 Jacobs Well Road, 7pm, 6:30pm Clover Kids
• Every 3rd Mon. The Wimberley Area Parkinsons Association meets at the Chapel of The Hills Church, 14601 RR 12 in Wimberley from 10am-12pm. Caregivers, friends, and relatives are welcome. Guest speakers, general discussion. Parkinson’s exercise program. Paulwilj99@gmail.com.
• Every 2nd & 4th Monday, The Wimberley Chapter of Overeaters Anonymous meets at 7pm, Wimberley Presbyterian Church, 956 FM 2325 (3rd door from the right). For more info, call or text Aida, 512-787-8313.
• Every 2nd Monday, Jacob’s Well Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, Emily Ann Theater in Wimberley at 9:40am, for chat time and 10am for our business meeting. JacobsWellNSDAR@gmail.com
• Mon. Toddler Time, Wimberley Village Library, 10:30-11:30am
• Every Mon. Stroller Strides workout, 9am, Wimberley First Baptist Church, contact Summer 512 644 4198, SMWimberleyDS@fit4mom.com
• Every Tues. & Fri. 9am-noon, 42 Dominoes at Wimberley Senior Center (inside Community Center). Contact joan1950@gmail.com.
• Every Tues. Gentle Hatha Yoga, 6pm, Wimb. Community Center ($10)
• Every Tues. 6:30pm, Celebrate Recovery with an option for dinner served at 6pm. Calvary Baptist Church, San Marcos. Contact Celebrate Recovery Leadership Team, 512-426-3758.
• Every Tues. Bilingual Spanish Storytime, 10:30-11:30am, Library
• Every Tues. 6:30-8pm. Community Bible Study, an interdenominational Bible study. Men, women, Co-Ed, Spanish, Youth & Children. Register at SanMarcosEve.CBSClass.org
• Every 3rd Tues. The Lions Club meets from 6pm-8pm at the Wimberley Community Center. Call 512-847-0207 for info.
• Every Tues. at noon, Rotary Club meets at Wimberley Library. Ermias K. Gebremeskel is president, 512 210 6966, Ketema_Ermias@yahoo.com
• Every 1st Tue. The Wimberley Community Center hosts free medical checks 9:3010:30am. Call 512-847-2510.
• Every Wed. Stroller Barre workout, 9am, Wimberley First Baptist Church, contact Summer, 512 644 4198 or email SMWimberleyDS@fit4mom.com
• Every Wed. Spanish for Homeschool Teens, 12:30-1:30pm, Wimberley Library, multipurpose room, 7th grade and up
• Every 1st Wed. WV Quilt Guild, 9:30am social, 10am meeting. Presbyterian church 956 RR 2325. WimberleyValleyQuiltGuild.org.
• Every 1st Wed. Transforming Stress: Unique Approach to Calm Body, Mind, Emotions, Friends Meeting Room, 6-7:30pm, contact Dr. Marianne Calvanese, ND for more information, 512 663 1820.
• Every 1st Wed. 5:30-7pm, Wimberley Valley Arts & Cultural Alliance mixer at Middleton Brewing. All are welcome. WimberleyArts.org.
• Every 1st Thurs. Wimberley Chamber of Commerce breakfast, Wimberley Cafe for networking opportunities, 8-9am. Bring business cards.
• Every 3rd Wed. Sept.-May, Herb Society of America, Emily Ann meeting room. Visitors welcome! Refreshments 9:30am, program at 10am. November 19, “Make & Take Herbal Gifts” RSVP via email Valentine_Lisa@msn.com. Visit HillCountryHerbSociety.org.
• Every 1st Thur. Alzheimer’s Caregiver’s Support Group, 12:30pm at the Presbyterian Church Library FM 2325. Contact Linda at 512-924-3661.
• Every Thurs. Gentle Hatha Yoga, 12pm, Community Center ($10)
• Every 2nd Thursday, Hill Country Bead Society meets at 1pm at the Wimberley Community Center. All levels and types of beading and metal work. Marilyn Pierce at 512-722-3549.
• Every 2nd and 4th Thur. 7pm Wimberley Toastmasters Club, First Baptist Church Wimberley, 15951 Winters Mill Parkway. Toastmasters teaches public speaking and leadership. Contact Amy, amy@texiasllc.com.
• Every 3rd Thur. Concerts at Susanna’s Kitchen Coffeehouse, 7:30pm; $25 adults, $5 kids. Pie, pizza, tamales, coffee, soft drinks . RR 12 & CR 1492 (United Methodist Church.) WimberleyUMC.org Barnabas Connection & Mother’s Day Out scholarships. Thurs. Nov 20: Dana Cooper
• Every Thurs. Gentle Yoga 10-11am, Wimberley Village Library
• Every Thursday, Master Gardeners at the Library, 2-5pm
• Every Fri. Wimberley VFW Post 6441 bingo nights. Doors 6:30pm with food concession. Earlybird 7:00pm. Regular 8pm. VFW6441.com/bingo
• Fri. Storytime, 10:30-11:30am, Wimberley Village Library
• Every Fri. Stroller Strides workout, 9am, Emily Ann Theatre, contact Summer, 512 644 4198 or smwimberleyds@fit4mom.com
• Every Fri. Stroller Strides Playdate with Kids Craft Fridays, 10am, Emily Ann Theatre, contact Summer, SMWimberleyDS@fit4mom.com
• Every Fri. Storytime, 10:30-11:30am, Wimb. Village Library
• Every 4th Friday, Art Crawl, 5-8pm, 5 Wimberley galleries open late, guest artists, refreshments. GalleryTrail.com/ArtCrawl
• 1st Sat. Wimberley Market Day, 7am-3pm, rain or shine
• Every 2nd Sat. Wimberley’s Second Saturday Gallery Trail. Visit ten galleries for art, food, fun, 4-7pm. Email BentTreeGallery@gmail.com. Have a glass of wine & enjoy art after hours.
• Every 3rd Sat. Art Bazaar, Wimberley Valley Winery noon-6pm
• 1st Sun. of every month, Coffee & Cars, 8am-11am, at Blanco Brew
• Every 2nd Sunday, 2pm Wimberley Valley Art League general meeting, Wimberley Community Center. Everyone is welcome.
• Sat, Nov 29, 6pm, Wishes for Wimberley Parade & Toy Drive Visit VisitWimberleyTX.org for more on parade, toy drive, and tree lighting.
A Wonderful Journey
My parents were reared in the Pacific Northwest where apple trees grow wild in the moist, fertile woods. My cousin, who acquired much of the dairy farm established by my grandparents, collected over a hundred varieties of heirloom apple trees in an orchard next to the farmhouse built by my grandpa.
After a visit up there decades ago, I returned to Wimberley, armed with suggestions about apple varieties that might do well in our low-chill environment and enthused about growing my own apples. I experimented and had good results with Dorsett Golden, one of which grew vigorously in our back yard. After years of keeping it caged to protect it from whitetail bucks rubbing their antlers on it, I removed the fence around it, judging its twelve-inch diameter and rough bark would no longer appeal to deer as an antler rub.
I was wrong. I awoke one morning to find the bark had been completely girdled to about three feet above the ground. Within three days, every leaf on the tree was brown and crispy, dead on the twigs. A hard lesson indeed.
I was thrilled when a friend offered me goat manure from his barn when I was first building garden soil out of the rocky, alkaline hilltop where we live. It was just the right additive we needed to add organic material to the soil, but I discovered the following spring that it came with thousands of Johnson grass seeds which I battled for years.
by Kern Deschner
Is Air Conditioning the Foundation of Modern Civilization?
Well, probably not, but it has become something that I have a feeling that we may not be able to live in Texas without (big shout out to my HVAC buddies!). I think that someday, when historians look at Texas, they are going to divide eras into the times before air conditioning and the times with air conditioning. The demarcation won’t be that sharp. There was probably a 50year ramp-up in air conditioning in Texas, the transition times. I asked my grandmother once how her generation survived without air conditioning. She says that they sweat a lot, and hauling water for bathing was effort, but they still tried to rinse off a couple of times a week, which was actually kind of fastidious for those days. Do any of my readers remember asking a girl on a date only to be told that she couldn’t go out because she had to “wash her hair”? Who says that anymore?
I grew up in a transition time when schools were not airconditioned before high school. My mother, who grew up with electric fans in McAllen, would hold off allowing the central airconditioning to be turned on in our Corpus house until after we went to Boy Scout camp. She thought the air conditioning would make us weak. My dad would always plan scout camp the first possible week of the summer so that we could get home and turn
Frustrating situations await us in every corner of our gardens, ready to teach us new things about gardening or remind us of the realities of the natural processes that make up the world of gardening. I sometimes think that the main function of my garden has been to teach me patience or remind me that no matter how much time
by Tim Thompson
and effort I put into the garden, Mother Earth is still ultimately in charge. In a larger sense, I have learned that gardening, like life at large, is a wonderful journey, not a destination.
Horticulturist Tim Thompson managed the garden center at King Feed for over 25 years. They offer everything you need to have the garden of your dreams without stressing your budget. Call King Feed at 512 847 2618.
on the air conditioning. It was like Christmas Day when that cool air started coming out of those vents. Then my mom would turn it off in August, a week before school started, to acclimate us to the heat again. Somewhere down the line we started running air-conditioning practically all the time. It wasn’t until the last one of us kids left for college that my parents started opening the windows on only the most moderate days.
Travel to Europe, where it is getting hotter, requires, for me, insisting on hotel rooms with AC. We like to sleep cold! I remember being asked by Danish relatives why – if it’s as hot as we claim – didn’t we have deep suntans? Simple answer? We’re smart enough to stay out of the sun. Whenever the Danes come to visit, they lay out in the sun while I hide behind hats and sunscreens. Yet I like them to visit in the summer because Danes miraculously bring rain with them!
The alpaca rapidly adapted to air conditioning this summer and I think the quality of the fleeces will reflect less sweating. The alpacas started out reluctantly going to the barn, but it only took one or two days in the AC before they were standing outside the door in the morning, waiting for Rhonda to open the cool place
The time is approaching when they’re going to have to go outside for the winter and we’re going to turn off the air conditioning. Rhonda will probably heat the barn a little for the new babies this winter. Alpacas like the cold but I hope they don’t decide they want to live in the barn year-round.
Rhonda and Kern Deschner are experienced alpaca ranchers raising alpacas through all kinds of Texas weather since 1997. Tierra Prometida Alpaca Ranch can be visited by calling Rhonda at 512 753 9962, or at Tierra@AlpacaUSA.com.
Your home should be your happy place. It should spark joy. If your home doesn’t meet these needs, you may need Sunshine Interior Design! We are a new startup business focused on bringing new life to Wimberley homes in an affordable way. We are Tammy and Connie, friends for 16 years. We started out by working in friends’ homes; just rearranging their things in a new way. One room turned into more rooms and more friends wanted us to give their homes a new spark. So, this gave us an idea to give it a go professionally!
To start things off, we were asked to create a fall scene outside of the Wimberley Thrift Shop on RR12 at the Community Center. Our display was awarded 1st place in the Keep Wimberley Beautiful Fall Display contest out of 12 entries. We didn’t even know we were entered! The display will be there until we convert it to a Christmas scene. Be sure to check it out!
Our niche is redecorating, reorganizing, decluttering, and repurposing owners’ current belongings. We work with the homeowner’s style and the vision to customize the final result. If we need to buy items to enhance the experience, we hit up all the local resale shops first! The resale shops provide a world of unique and affordable options. If we don’t find what we need there, we go to lunch and shop online! We will find what is needed to complete the design. If the client’s vision will be enhanced by a little painting, we also offer interior and specialty painting. In addition to sprucing up home interiors, we also offer interior holiday and seasonal décor. We will do as little as organizing a closet to redecorating your entire home! Whatever you need, we are here to help you get that spark back in your happy place! Let Sunshine Interior Design light up your space!
Connie Valentin has been a small business owner in Wimberley for over 18 years with Connie’s Clean Getaway, a residential cleaning service. Her cleaning service won best in Wimberley for 7 years! Connie and her husband have been in Wimberley for 20 years.
Tammy Arnold is a Wimberley native, local artist, wife, and mother of two teenagers. Before motherhood, she had a specialty painting business with her mom/artist, Denice Calley.
Check us out on Instagram and Facebook @Sunshine_InteriorDesign
Tammy Arnold 512 565 2225
Connie Valentin 954 871 4886
From the Heart: My Life’s Mission
While at university, I taught private lessons at a neighborhood music store. One day, the owner handed me a slim book called Nurtured by Love, by Dr. Shinichi Suzuki, and my life changed. Dr. Suzuki taught children as young as three how to play the violin. The basic tenets of his educational philosophy were that talent is not inborn, and every child can develop ability if given the right learning environment.
I watched his films of hundreds of elementary-age students playing music pieces that I had not studied myself until I was much older. How could this be? I wondered. How could he teach children who were so young?
As I reflected on these questions, I considered my own music study pathway and discovered many similarities. I had a rich musical environment. My parents encouraged me and provided me with the best teachers and opportunities to learn. My family taught me how to work hard to learn skills and how to persevere in my lessons until I became an adult.
There was one aspect of my life that did not measure up to the Suzuki philosophy: my relationship with my mother. She was an excellent primary school teacher, but our personal relationship
by Casey Harrison, LDT, CSLDS, CALT-QIT
did not mesh between us. Dr. Suzuki’s book helped me understand my relationship with my mother and how we could have built a stronger relationship through the study of music.
As I finished reading the book, I resolved to dedicate my life to bringing this style of teaching to others to ensure that other children and their parents would have
by Paula E. Bird
strong, loving relationships together. I encourage parents who wish for this positive relationship with their children to consider the study of music with the Suzuki Method. We show parents how to develop their children’s talent and ability in a loving and nurturing way. Every Child Can, and every parent can do this. Come join us at the Wildflower Music Studio. We teach students of all ages, and also build strong relationships. "Where love is deep, much can be accomplished." (Dr. Suzuki).
Paula E. Bird has taught in the Wimberley area for over 20 years. Recently retired from Texas State University and the Austin Symphony, she has performed at Carnegie Hall as a founding member of the Artisan String Quartet. Joined by her business partner, musician Ian Lee, the pair serves over 100 students in the Central Texas area. Contact her at birdtull@prodigy.net or (512) 694-7687.
Language: The Foundation of Reading and Learning
Have you ever thought about how much language your child uses in a single school day? From listening to directions and answering questions to reading stories and writing sentences, language is at the heart of it all. It’s the foundation of learning and the key to how children grow as readers and thinkers.
Dyslexia is a language-based learning difference that affects how a person processes spoken and written language. It’s not about vision or intelligence, but about how the brain connects sounds, symbols, and words. Children with dyslexia often experience difficulties with specific language skills, including reading, spelling, writing, and, for some, word retrieval. For example, a child might know the word they want to say but can’t quite recall it, as if it is stuck on the tip of their tongue. You might hear them describe it instead or use words like that thing
Sometimes, you might also notice persistent errors in pronunciation — like saying psgetti for spaghetti. These are examples of how dyslexia affects how the brain organizes and retrieves language sounds.
Reading is a language-based process that grows from the same systems that help children talk, listen, and understand. Strong oral language skills lay the foundation for reading and writing success. As parents, you don’t need special tools to build your child’s language skills, just connection and conversation.
Read aloud together every day. Talk about what’s happening in the story and explore new words.
Encourage complete sentences. Ask your child to expand their thoughts: Can you tell me more about that?
Listen for patterns or errors. If you notice your child consistently mispronouncing words or struggling to recall them, share this with their teacher—it can help guide classroom support.
Use language everywhere. Cooking, car rides, and playtime all offer natural moments for language growth.
Every conversation strengthens the bridge between spoken language and reading success. Join me at the Dripping Springs Library for our Dyslexia Simulation Event — an eye-opening opportunity to explore how language and reading connect.
Dripping Springs Library, December 16 at 5:30pm
Casey is a Certified Academic Language Therapist (ALTA), Licensed Dyslexia Therapist (TX, ALTA), Certified Structured Literacy Dyslexia Specialist (IDA), and a Qualified Teacher with over 27 years of experience. She works with parents, teachers, and PK-12th grade students at her private practice, providing dyslexia therapy, literacy instruction, consultations, resources, and training. She sits on the National Board atlarge of the Academic Language Therapy Association. Her podcast, Together in Literacy, focuses on dyslexia, literacy instruction, and the whole child. Author of Teaching Beyond the Diagnosis - Empowering Students with Dyslexia Through the Science of Reading (release 2025). She resides in Wimberley, Texas, with her husband, their three daughters, and many animals in their little slice of the country.
The “Retired” Student
by Sarah Geenberg
Most of our students would not be comfortable in your everyday yoga. Tai Chi, or karate studio. Younger people tend to take these exercise types of classes as challenges to face and overcome. They want to rapidly
improve, excel, and prove themselves. And I think that is great. In the moment, it’s difficult to understand how you are going to make it and every success helps. Karate in particular is great for adding confidence and creating leadership skills.
However, older people no longer have a huge need to prove themselves. What a relief! Things that used to matter or bother them so much aren’t as important. Family and community are more important and they are always trying to find ways to share what they have learned and help others. They have different goals, like making sure they feel safe as they age. This can be safe from other people, but it is mostly being safe from things like falling or not being able to do things as easily. Older people generally want to work on getting strong and able, while also being around a community who are also wanting to stay active and enjoy life. They aren’t in any hurry about it, either. The older community is more likely to enjoy the process.
by Robert Donnelly, DDS
A lot of our students practiced yoga, Tai Chi, or karate when they were younger. Many come to us not so sure if they can still do it.
In reality, they are thinking of their younger selves who used to use the practice as a way to prove themselves. And they don’t want to do that anymore.
So the answer is yes, you can always still do it – whether you were able before or not. It just may look different because you now have different goals.
Older people thrive in these practices – or anything they do –because they have more patience, persistence, and time. Since they are not trying to prove themselves, they study deeper and actually succeed more in their goals. Their practice won’t look like doing big fancy kicks or achieving deep, difficult yoga positions. Their success comes from deep within, and it usually comes out as a deep satisfaction and gratitude.
It is really great to see.
Sarah Geenberg is the owner of Wimberley Karate and Yoga Studio. They have classes every day except Sundays. First class is free, so come by, anytime.
Developing Good Oral Hygiene Habits at Home
In addition to visiting the dentist for regular checkups and cleanings at least twice a year, it’s important to maintain good oral health care at home. Brushing and flossing your teeth properly, as well as using mouth rinse, minimize your risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
In order to effectively remove cavity-causing bacteria, you should brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day. Hold your tooth brush at a 45-degree angle to your teeth and brush in a circular or elliptical motion, pressing just firmly enough to reach between your teeth. Brushing too hard or using a sawing motion could cause your gums to recede and damage your teeth. Start brushing at the gumline and work your way down onto the teeth, brushing a couple of teeth at a time until you cover your entire mouth. Make sure to brush the outside and inside of your teeth, the chewing surfaces and between teeth, as well as your tongue. Always make sure to use a soft-bristled brush because hard bristles can damage your teeth and gums. Old toothbrushes with worn and frayed bristles are ineffective and may harbor harmful bacteria. Make sure to change your toothbrush every three to four months or after an illness. When it comes to choosing the best toothpaste for you, it’s important to think about your unique oral health needs. Some aim
toothpastes aim to alleviate pain associated with sensitive teeth or to control plaque and tartar, some remove stains and whiten teeth. I can always help you to determine which is right for you. Flossing is just as important as brushing your teeth. Flossing removes plaque and debris between your teeth, polishes the surfaces of the teeth, helps control bad breath, and reduces risk of gum disease. Floss for two or three minutes at least once a day, using an up-and-down motion and making sure to floss below the gumline. Research shows that using a germ-killing mouthwash in addition to brushing your teeth can reduce plaque and gingivitis more that brushing alone.
If you or someone you know are interested in learning more about maintaining oral hygiene, Dr. Donnelly is here to help you. You can contact San Marcos Gentle Dental by calling 512 396 5225 where we will be happy to get you scheduled. Come see why Dr. Donnelly was voted a Texas Super Dentist by Texas Monthly Magazine and Best Dentist in Hays County!
by Alice Lebkuecher
3 Front Door Paint Colors Experts Say Will Be Huge In 2026
When we asked Southern designers about the front door paint colors that will be big in 2026, three shades in particular kept coming up again and again in their responses. As such, it seems like we’ll be ````
seeing lots of green, blue, and black front doors in the future!
Green Don’t be afraid to go with a vibrant color when it comes time to paint your door. “Front doors can make a bold statement; it’s truly a way to express yourself and create that memorable curb appeal,” says Gray Walker, the founder of Gray Walker Interiors in Charlotte, North Carolina. The designer opted for a custom Benjamin Moore green shade for her own front door and loves how it pops against the home’s Georgian facade, “I have always loved shades of green on old brick.”
Mark Kennamer, the founder of Mark Kennamer Design in Birmingham, is also excited about green front doors for 2026.
“After several years of pale pastel front doors—which we still adore—we’re excited to see a shift toward richer, more grounded colors.” His top pick? Farrow & Ball Studio Green (No. 93).
Eager to embrace English country vibes? Try Kismet from Schumacher’s sister brand Backdrop, suggests Javier Burkle, the founder of Burkle Creative in Dallas. The dark Dutch green, “bridges classic luxury with an organic sensibility. It recalls Ralph Lauren’s world of sophistication while staying grounded in nature, giving entryways in 2026 a cosmopolitan polish with lasting depth.”
Blue Blue is another color that designers cited as being big for the front door in 2026. Eleanor Tate Trepte, the co-founder of Dekay & Tate in West Palm Beach, shares that when it comes to greens and blues, “they’re definitely evolving richer, deeper, and more daring than before.” Favorites include Benjamin Moore’s Finley Blue (CW-620) and Levingston Green (CW-490).
Burkle is partial to Benjamin Moore Van Deusen Blue (HC156); “classic with a modern twist, featuring a rich, moody, and deeply inviting tone. It captures the perfect balance of heritage and edge, offering a color that feels both timeless and fresh.”
Black Russell Goldman, the founder of More Wow, who works on design projects throughout the east coast, is feeling a moodier pick. “Black’s my top pick,” he says. “It’s classic, timeless and not going anywhere.”
Burkle shares similar enthusiasm regarding the color black for front doors. “Benjamin Moore Black (2132-10) feels like the ultimate front door statement for 2026,” he says. “It’s timeless, dramatic, and endlessly versatile—this hue frames a home with instant gravitas, while its depth and richness set the stage for whatever story unfolds inside.” Adapted from Southern Living
Alice Gumbert Lebkuecher is a sales agent with Keller Williams Realty, Partners in Real Estate, in Wimberley. She works with both buyers and sellers in Wimberley and surrounding areas. To contact her, call her cell at 713 253 1311 or by email at AliceinWimberley@gmail.com.
The Buying Process
by AJ Harwood
Are you in the market for a home? If it’s your first time purchasing, you may wonder what to expect during the process. Even if you’ve purchased a home before, the process has many variables and may not be the same every time.
Do your homework. When you know what you want, you’ll have an easier time finding it.
• Where do you want to live? Drive around and write down what inspires you about the homes that catch your attention.
• What do you want in a home? List the features of your ideal home, including the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchen size, and style. Also, note your ideal yard size, commute, and proximity to schools or other amenities.
• What are your deal breakers? What features or characteristics do you want to avoid or would make you pass on a home? You may not find a home that is one hundred percent to your liking, so decide which features you are willing to negotiate on. Buying a home is a process of elimination, not a process of selection. Prioritize items on your list to find the right home for your needs. Would you consider a home that has a smaller yard than you want if it’s closer to work and great schools?
Get prequalified for a mortgage if you’re planning to finance your purchase. Use an online affordability calculator to get a general idea. When you reach the pre-approval stage, you’ll be asked to submit paperwork, including bank statements and your W-2, to help your lender verify your finances and credit. If you need a mortgage broker, give me a call.
• Get a copy of your credit report and check your score. If you see any errors, take care of them before you apply for a loan.
• While it’s tempting to shop for big-ticket items for your new place, wait to make big purchases until after the sale closes.
Real estate is local. I’m here to walk you through with the best information so you can make the best choices and know how it applies to you in the Hill Country area. If you’re thinking of selling, call me today! Experience matters.
This information is designed to provide a brief overview of the subject matter covered and is offered for general educational and informational purposes only. Used with permission by the Buffini & Company.
Allison “AJ” Harwood, JD, MBA, GRI, is the Broker/Owner of RE/MAX REAL PROPERTIES and a Top Producing Agent in the Texas Hill Country areas. When Experience matters…Call “AJ” Today! Your Hill Country Luxury Property Expert. Member: Institute for LUXURY HOME MARKETING. He is Wimberley’s “Peak Producer” offering Professional Representation for both Buyers and Sellers in Real Estate Transactions. AJ may be contacted at 512.848-6612 or at AJ@REMAX.net. Call AJ Today!
No Limits!
Frequent visitors to the Wimberley Art League Gallery juried shows at the Community Center probably know the name Mary Owens. Her work has been selected Best-In-Show five times, in addition to other placements. This should alert art followers to the fact that there is no limit to her creative mind!
Growing up in San Antonio, Mary was heavily influenced by her artist parents. She spent five years studying art at San Antonio Junior College.
After college, Mary went to work for an ad agency, a step that would occupy her for the next 40 years. Before computers, graphic design was done by hand. Mary worked for several agencies. She also opened her own agency and accepted commission artwork as well.
Mary’s talents were often recognized by a national design award institution. Fashion illustration led to graphic design. She then became Art Director, then Director of Package Design for a statewide grocery chain.
Through all of this time, Mary maintained her interest in painting. Projects reflected her appreciation of bold colors and an understanding of abstraction, expressionism, impressionism, pop art, and collage. This work became her passion when the time came to “retire” from graphic design.
Her growing family moved to Wimberley in 2001. She immersed herself in the art scene, including involvement in local galleries. Mary is as diverse as the techniques she uses and is always learning, especially from the many fabulous artists she has met in Wimberley.
Mary continued her energetic connections to the community. After the 2015 Wimberley flood, she and a friend developed a flood relief T-shirt. For months RESTORE WIMBERLEY shirts were sold everywhere, even overseas, with $75,000 in funds going to residents in need.
Several paintings were exhibited and sold at the former 220 Fine Art Gallery. She is represented at Art On 12 Gallery and submits work for the Wimberley Valley Art League (WVAL) Gallery. Her hope is that more Wimberley residents will become involved with exhibits and receptions such as these. She loves to visit with folks interested in her work, as well as other artists at these shows.
Mary Owens believes that attending the WVAL shows will make anyone an art enthusiast! She claims that the WVAL Juried Exhibits at the Community Center are the best parties in town! That’s a perfect way for someone to appreciate how creative an artist can be – especially when it has been established that Mary Owens has no limits.
Pruning in Winter
Certain types of pruning can be performed on trees any time of year, but winter in Central Texas provides an especially good opportunity. In particular, visibility in deciduous trees is better, and the beetle responsible for vectoring the oak wilt pathogen is less active.
One thing that’s easier to spot in winter concerns structural issues in the canopy. These include conditions such as overextended branches, same-sized branches originating from a common junction, bark that becomes embedded between two stems that have a common junction, cracks, and cavities. Such conditions suggest that structural stability may be compromised, or it could become so over time. Trees that are pruned properly tend to sustain less damage during storms and windy conditions. Another problem that’s easier to spot in winter is the presence of mistletoe. This plant is called a “hemiparasite” because it can produce its own food through photosynthesis, but it takes moisture and nutrients from the tree to do so. Although ball moss is not a parasite, it, too, can be easier to spot in winter. Heavy infestations can be controlled through pruning, topical treatments, or a combination of both. Incidentally, winter provides greater opportunities for the ideal weather conditions that make ball moss control more effective.
Finally, winter offers the last opportunity for pruning oak trees before spring, the season that increases risk of oak wilt infection from pruning wounds on live branches. The Texas Forest Services recommends avoiding such pruning from February 1 through June 30. Pruning for safety, line clearance, building clearance, storm damage, dead branch removal, and
by Joe Harris
similar situations may still be performed on oak trees in any season, but professional standards should be observed in the process.
Property owners should be aware that too much foliage removed in a pruning session is not good for trees, nor are flush and stub cuts. For your winter pruning this year, contact an ISA Certified Arborist, who should be able to answer your questions about proper practice.
Joe grew up in Charlotte, Michigan, as a second-generation arborist. He attended Texas State, joining Bartlett while he was there. Joe worked 5 years as an arborist climber and crew leader, transitioning to Arborist Representative. He and his family love spending time on the San Marcos river. Visit Bartlett.com or call 512 392 1089 to schedule an appointment.
Smelly Water?
One major water quality issue shared by many of us is water which emits a rotten egg odor caused by hydrogen sulfide gas.
by Randy Lawrence
This problem is unique to homes whose water source is a private well, as municipal and community water supplies `
are required to treat the water at the source. In the past, getting rid of rotten egg odor has been inconvenient and expensive, but recent advances have made eliminating it a much easier task to accomplish.
One common method of treating well water for hydrogen sulfide was to inject chlorine directly into the water as it is pumped from the ground. These chlorine systems can often be maintenance intensive and prone to breakdown. It is also difficult to maintain a consistent level of chlorine without constant monitoring. Additionally, the homeowner is responsible for proper dilution rates to avoid exposure to high levels of this caustic chemical. Another way of removing odor is to use a well water storage tank, allowing the release of the gases. This is an effective way to remove the gas without harmful chemicals, but it typically requires a large amount of space, as well as a separate pump to re-pressurize the water. Unfortunately, storing water in a tank subjects it to possible bacterial contamination from outside sources. Ultraviolet disinfection and filtration are usually recommended when water is stored in a holding tank. There are benefits, but the extra equipment can be cost prohibitive.
Many people aren’t aware that reliable, user-friendly equipment has been developed which will aerate and filter your water inside a sealed, pressurized tank. This tank takes up very little space and can be used alone or as pre-treatment for a water softener. The result is water that is completely free of hydrogen sulfide, iron, and any sediment that may come from your well – without the need for chemicals or maintenance by the homeowner. Contact your favorite licensed water treatment specialist to discuss details on how to make your water smell better!
Randy is the owner of ProQuality Water Systems, a full service water treatment company. He is one of only six Class III Certified Water Treatment Specialists in Hays County (LIC# WT0002693). With over 25 years of experience he has serviced Wimberley and surrounding areas for over two decades.
“When you want quality, call a pro.”
Reducing Risk When Markets Hit All-Time Highs
When stock markets soar to record levels, investors often face a dilemma: stay invested and risk a correction, or pull back and miss potential gains. The key is risk management without abandoning growth opportunities. Here are practical strategies to help you navigate this environment. Why Risk Management Matters at Market Highs
Valuations can become stretched, increasing volatility. Sudden corrections can erode hard-earned gains.
A disciplined approach helps preserve capital while maintaining upside potential.
1. Diversify Beyond Traditional Equities
Spread investments across sectors, geographies, and asset classes.
Include bonds, commodities, and alternatives for stability. Avoid overconcentration in high-performing sectors—they’re often the most vulnerable.
2. Structured Banknotes (Income Notes) Income notes are structured products designed to provide predictable cash flow while offering some downside protection. Key features: Regular coupon payments, often higher than traditional bonds.
Linked to the performance of an underlying index or basket of stocks.
Typically include a buffer or barrier against moderate declines, reducing risk compared to direct equity exposure.
Considerations:
Credit risk of the issuing bank.
Limited liquidity and potential complexity in terms.
Income notes are ideal for investors seeking steady income rather than pure growth, making them a strong option when markets are at elevated levels.
3. Buffered ETFs Buffered ETFs use options
strategies to create a “buffer zone” against losses.
Benefits:
Protects against declines (typically 10%–30%).
Maintains equity exposure for growth.
Trade-Offs:
Upside potential is capped.
Works best for stability-focused investors.
4. Maintain Liquidity and Rebalance
Keep cash or short-term instruments for flexibility. Rebalance regularly to align with risk tolerance and goals. Prevent overexposure to inflated asset classes.
At market highs, risk management is about balance—preserving capital while staying invested. Tools like income-focused structured banknotes and buffered ETFs offer innovative ways to reduce downside risk without abandoning growth. Pair these with diversification and disciplined rebalancing to navigate uncertain terrain confidently.
Scott G. Hackett, CFP® is the president of the Hackett Financial Group LLC (HFG), a fee-only registered investment advisor. Visit HackettFinancialGroup.com or reach out at 512 847 0630. Email Scott at Scott@HackettFinancialGroup.com.
512.847.0630
Custodian Services with
Pitfalls of Do-It-Yourself Wills
by Carrie Campbell, J.D.
I met with a woman who had recently lost her father. She produced for me her father’s “will” naming her as executor. As I read through the document, it was obvious that the man had prepared this will himself – in his daughter’s opinion, ``
to save money. The will attempted to address some complex issues since the man had outlived two of his four children, and he wanted to include his numerous grandchildren as heirs, some of whom were still minors. The language was confusing and left open to different interpretations as to inheritance and appointment of trustees to manage funds for the youngest heirs. When getting to the end of the document, there were multiple witness signatures without a place of residence noted. The affidavit following the will’s signature page was unsigned. The rules in Texas are strict for wills. The person signing the will and witnesses should be under oath and information shared so that the witnesses can assess whether the signer understands what they are signing. Witnesses should include a full address in case they are needed to testify during probate. The affidavit at the end of a will is significant because it includes the specifics under oath that would otherwise need to be testified to in court. In this instance, because there is no completed affidavit stating that the ``
witnesses were present together at the signing, the witnesses must be located to tell the judge these details in person. It is difficult to locate a witness who has no connection to family and has left no address.
Just because I can read a medical textbook does not mean I should try to perform an appendectomy. The same is true for legal documents of importance. The consequences of getting it wrong are hard on surviving family members and can generate expenses which far exceed the price of proper estate planning.
Carrie Campbell has lived and practiced law in Wimberley since 1997. She is the managing partner of Mounger & Campbell law firm. Carrie is an active member of the Rotary Club of Wimberley and president of the Wimberley Village Library Foundation. She proudly has three wonderful daughters and two lively grandsons. To contact Carrie, call 512 847 1308 or CarrieC1970@gmail.com.
Litigation: I’ll Bet You Are Working Hard
I’m guessing that you work harder at what you do than most people think. Am I right? Whether it is a job, a hobby, volunteer work, caring for a loved one – anything – there are many more facets to it than meet the eye. Sometimes you mutter to yourself: I just wish they knew.
At the end of the day though, you likely feel a sense of pride or accomplishment that is more satisfying than the accolades or appreciation of that someone who you just wish knew. I am writing this late on a Saturday evening after spending the day at the office preparing for a jury trial next week. I’ll be back there tomorrow ticking off task after task of things that must be done in order to present my client’s case effectively to the jury. Even after years of preparing for trials, I am always surprised at the innumerable tiny details that must be attended to so that in the intensity of the trial itself, every piece is in place.
Trials today are mixtures of the old school flip charts, magic markers, pens, and legal pads coupled with the presentation of information and witness testimony using PowerPoint and video depositions of witnesses who do not appear in person to give their testimony.
There is the psychology of what questions to ask prospective jurors to ascertain whether you want them on the jury. There may be focus groups ahead of trial to evaluate how jurors might view various elements of your case and then the making of
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adjustments in your planned presentation based upon what you learn from the focus groups. You must decide which of the
by Roland Brown
potentially hundreds of exhibits are most likely to move the case towards your goal and then comb those exhibits to be sure they do not contain inadmissible information.
There are legal issues to prepare short trial briefs on so that if that issue pops up at trial, you can quickly hand a brief to the judge to support your argument on the issue. Preparation of clients, most of whom have no experience testifying, requires both time and energy. The list goes on and on........and on! And yes, sometimes the frazzled trial lawyer mutters to herself I wish they knew but at the end of the day, it is that feeling of doing a job well and for the right reasons that makes it satisfying. Trial lawyers are adrenalin junkies; we thrive on the challenges. I will sleep well tonight and return to the work tomorrow. I hope that whatever you are occupied with, you will do the same.
Attorney Roland Brown handles exclusively personal injury claims. Roland, who offices in Wimberley, has been voted HAYS COUNTY’S BEST PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEY for 2020, 2021, and 2023 in annual polls of Hays County attorneys. For more information call 512 847 2500.
