ANJI MADDOX HELPS FAMILIES FIND ANSWERS, REUNITE WITH LOVED ONES, AND PROTECT WHAT MATTERS MOST
PUBLISHER | CATHY PAYNE
cathy@georgetownview.com
Like many of the best in her craft, Cathy has a specialized degree—in her case, hard science—and a gift for writing. She found her voice and fulfillment reporting and writing news and magazine features for a regional Central Texas audience. Along with serving as the publisher of the Georgetown View, Cathy oversees multiple magazines, marketing campaigns, and books.
SENIOR WRITERS / CONTENT EDITORS
Charlotte Kovalchuk • Ann Marie Kennon
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Linda A. Thornton
Steve Fought
CONTENT MANAGER
Camy Reynolds
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Sandra Evans • Ann Marie Kennon
Marilee Goldoni
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Patrick St. Cin
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
Jesse Payne
WEBMASTER
Ann Marie Kennon
ADVERTISING
512.746.4545
info@georgetownview.com
Georgetown View is a Fidelis Publishing Group, LLC publication and a product of AdvocateNewsTX Newspaper.
Mail may be sent to: Georgetown View P.O. Box 203 • Jarrell, TX 76537
IWHO WE ARE
n an age where the rush of daily news often overshadows the deeper narratives that shape our community, the Georgetown View constantly strives to be an eager beacon of positivity and unity. Far more than just a lifestyle magazine, our publishers and staff are committed to creating a means of getting to know what makes our community thrive: its people and their impact.
Since its inception, the Georgetown View has not only reported on the great stories and people in our city but also taken pride in actively contributing to its enrichment. Through donations exceeding $60,000 in advertising, we have extended our support beyond the printed page to organizations like the Mounted Warfare Museum, Brookwood in Georgetown (BiG), and the Williamson County Children’s Advocacy Center. These contributions further amplify the voices of those who work tirelessly to make a difference, ensuring their missions reach as many eyes and hearts as possible.
Moreover, we enjoy sharing our commitment to the animal companions of our community through regular features dedicated to the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter, showcasing the importance of compassion. We are also pleased that our rotating nonprofit column further underscores this dedication by highlighting different support organizations each month, creating a platform for advocacy and connection.
But we are also good at doing what we do–showcasing prominent community agencies and initiatives like ROCK, Georgetown ISD students, FFA, 4-H, and many more on our covers and in multi-page features. These not only celebrate their contributions but also inspire readers to personally engage and participate in the missions of these community pillars. As well, timely articles featuring the Annunciation Maternity Home, Georgetown Arts District, and the Palace Theatre go beyond surface-level news, offering insights into the cultural and humanitarian assets of Georgetown.
In every story, from first responders and veterans to the latest city events and programs, our purpose is to foster a sense of pride and connection. In addition to these, each November, our "Giving Thanks and Giving Back" issue shines a spotlight on local nonprofits and philanthropic efforts, reminding us of the power of community support and the importance of gratitude.
In short, we believe the Georgetown View is more than a magazine; it is a vital part of the community’s fabric that spotlights advocacy, education, and celebration. We hope you will agree it stands as a testament to what we can all achieve when we choose to focus on the positive and the possible.
In today's dynamic market, visibility is key to success. We invite you to explore the power of diversification by previewing and investing in advertisement spaces across our diverse range of magazines. Each publication in our portfolio offers a unique audience, ensuring your message resonates with a wider, yet targeted demographic. Seize this opportunity to broaden your reach, enhance brand recognition, and connect with potential customers in new, impactful ways. Let's collaborate to make your brand a household name.
CONTACT US
512-746-4545 • INFO@GEORGETOWNVIEW.COM
ON THE COVER
Anji Maddox, founder of She Spies Private Eye, has built a career blending compassion with sharp investigative skill. With a team of mostly female investigators—including her mother— Anji helps families uncover the truth, protect children, and find peace of mind through ethical, heart-driven private investigation.
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COVER FEATURE
She Spies Private Eye AROUND TOWN Georgetown's YMCA FROM THE MAYOR Georgetown Speaks
ASK A PRO: AQUA TOTS SWIM SCHOOL
Choosing A Swim School
PARTNER PROFILE Multi-Generational Living from Moore Liberty Buildings
26 33 36 40 44
KIDS & EDUCATION
Investing in Educators
Sponsored by InnerSpace Cavern
SHELTER STORIES Hiking with your Best Furry Friend Sponsored by Countryside Pet Resort WHAT MAKES TEXAS "TEXAS"? Texas Women
46 48
ASK A PRO: INNER SPACE CAVERN Cave Paleontology
POPPY TALKS Digital Hoarding
WORTH THE DRIVE Newman's Castle THRIVING AFTER 55 Finding the Real You
Follow us on Facebook follow-ups to these stories, out-takes & hints to what's coming GeorgetownViewMagazine
PHOTO BY SHELLEY SHROYER
ASK A PRO • FEATURED PROFESSIONALS
Meet our Pros — professionals, business owners, and subject matter experts from leading local companies who share their knowledge and expertise to bring readers practical advice, how-to tips, best practices, and current and emerging trends. To learn more about becoming a Featured Professional, contact info@georgetownview.com or 512-746-4545.
Aqua-Tots Swim School Round Rock
The largest international provider of year-round, indoor swim instruction dedicated to teaching water safety through our proven curriculum.
Aqua-Tots.com/Round-Rock 512-336-8687
Austin Orthopedic Institute Board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine, joint reconstruction, and orthopedic trauma, with over 15 years of surgical expertise.
AustinOI.com 512-856-1000
Doleva Elite Tree Certified Arborists to care for your trees! Our large equipment makes jobs efficient and economic, and prevents damage to lawn or property. Serving Georgetown since 2009.
DolevaEliteTree.com 512-943-8733
Inner Space Cavern
One of the best preserved caves in Texas, Inner Space Cavern has hosted hundreds of thousands of visitors since 1966 and offers a variety of activities year round.
InnerSpaceCavern.com 4200 S IH-35 Georgetown
Prime Wellness and Longevity
Personalized hormone therapy, weight loss, and wellness plans to help clients optimize health, boost energy, and feel their absolute best.
PrimeWellnessand Longevity.com 512-240-4456
Keller Commercial & Home Services
Experts specializing in maintenance, enhancement, and design. Armed with cutting-edge tools and programs — driving rapid growth in architectural landscaping.
KellerServicesTX.com 512-930-4769
DTC Air Conditioning
DTC provides advanced HVAC solutions with Carrier® factory-authorized service, expert technicians, and a commitment to innovation, training, and 100% customer satisfaction.
DTCTexas.com 512-887-5091
Hall's Roofing & Sheet Metal, LLC
Family owned since 1939. Roofing professionals specializing in full-service roof repair, installation, and replacement.
HallsRoofing.net 512-864-7579
&
Thousands of structures built since 2015.
MooreLibertyBuildings.com 512-548-6474
NextGen Academy Empowering students with cutting-edge technology and innovative teaching methods to foster creativity, critical thinking, and future readiness.
NextGenAcademy.school 13915 US 183 Austin, TX 78717
Sky & Co. Jewelry
Handcrafted elegance meets modern meaning. Sky & Co Jewelry creates minimalist pieces with lasting impact— designed to celebrate individuality, intention, and the stories you wear.
SkyCoJewelry.com 512-254-9337
The Wesleyan
Providing a new, bountiful experience of aging full of purpose, passion, and possibility for more than 50 years.
TheWesleyan.org
Wild Birds Unlimited
Expert advice, quality seed, and feeders. Let us provide joy to you and your backyard birds. We bring people and nature together and do it with excellence.
GeorgetownTX.wbu.com (512) 763-1081
Moore Liberty Buildings Chad
Amanda Moore
St. Helen Catholic Church
will be hosting two special evenings of Music and Reflections with Multi-Platinum Selling, Grammy/Dove Award-Winning Catholic Recording Artist, and Best-Selling Author
John Michael Talbot’s music has been the soundtrack to the faith journey of millions throughout the world. He will be ministering at our parish as part of his ‘COME TO THE QUIET TOUR” for two evenings focused on Sacred Stillness through music and reflections needed in our contantly changing world! Programs are different for each day and we highly encourage you to attend both evenings! Purchase tickets online at www.sainthelens.com/jmt or via the QR Code here!
Non-refundable ticket sales and additional donations will go to offset the cost of this event as well as the building of the Adoration Chapel and beautifying the new Our Lady of Guadalupe Garden!
8 a . m. - 1 2 p. m. 2 Texas Dr., Georgetown TX 78633 2 Texas Dr., Georgetown TX 78633
The Sun City Texas Community Association and Sun City Kiwanis are hosting a public garage sale for residents to sell unwanted items and shop for new treasures! SATURDAY, OCT. 4 SATURDAY, OCT. 4
Solving Cases with Heart
SHE SPIES PRIVATE EYE BRINGS JUSTICE AND PEACE OF MIND
Anji Maddox’s earliest investigations didn’t involve suspects or stakeouts—they started with her own family tree. As a child, she spent hours wandering around cemeteries and poring over research files at libraries alongside her mother, an expert genealogist with a detective’s determination who would frame each trip like a real-life case. “I grew up with her saying, ‘We’re investigating our relatives and family history.’ I loved watching my mom and learning from her.” At home, Anji devoured Nancy Drew mysteries, fueling a dream of joining the FBI or CIA—never imagining that one day she would carve out her own path as a private investigator.
PRECISION AND CREATIVITY
Before stepping into the world of private investigation, Anji served as a juvenile probation officer, gaining firsthand insight into the challenges facing at-risk youth. Later, while working as a background investigator for the Austin Police Department, she crossed paths with a retired FBI agent who was working as a private investigator.
After teaching her the basics of the industry, he encouraged her to open her own business. In 2003, Anji opened She Spies Private Eye, specializing in domestic investigations, background checks, and child custody cases. What began as a one-woman operation has grown into a full-service, licensed agency with eight, mostly female investigators—including her lifelong-sleuth mother. Having an agency made up mainly of women in a male-dominated industry has proven advantageous. “Women are more detail-oriented and creative,” Anji says. “People don’t always expect women to be PIs, and we can get away with things men can’t—we can change our look with wigs, ball caps, or different clothing.” The agency also employs several male investigators for safety and balance, pairing them with female team members when cases benefit from multiple perspectives.
JUSTICE MEETS COMPASSION
She Spies Private Eye specializes in domestic investigations, including
infidelity cases, child custody, corporate investigations, and background checks, as well as a range of services for businesses, law firms, and investors. But for Anji, child-related investigations remain closest to her heart
after her time as a juvenile probation officer. “I made it a goal to help children so they end up with the right parent and live in a healthy stable home,” Anji says. “People will tell me I shouldn’t take this job so personally, but as a mom and grandmother, I don’t think we can be effective for these families if we don’t take these cases personally.”
Her team has uncovered unsafe conditions ranging from children left alone for hours to parents’ reckless driving habits. In some cases, they’ve gone undercover—always within strict ethical and legal limits—to gather evidence for family court.
Her case history is nothing if not eclectic—from late-night surveillance in bars and swinger clubs to locating an elderly elephant for a client deter-
Movies might paint private investigators as shadowy figures who cut corners and break laws, but here in Texas, the reality is very different. Investigators must be licensed by the Texas Department of Public Safety—a safeguard that keeps the work legal and accountable. Anji recommends clients always verify credentials before hiring anyone. “Don’t shop for the cheapest—shop for who you think will do the best job, even if it’s more expensive,” she says.
That licensing comes with strict boundaries. If a client asks an investigator to find an estranged loved one, they can’t simply hand over a home address without consent. Instead, they might deliver a letter, giving the other person the choice to respond. “At least they’ll know you tried,” Anji says. “But we can’t force contact.” Every investiga-
mined to free it from a circus. Some moments are deeply emotional, like helping reunite estranged family members, like the terminally ill mother who wanted to reconnect with her daughter.
“WHAT I LOVE MOST ABOUT BEING A PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR IS BEING ABLE TO MAKE A POSITIVE DIFFERENCE IN SOMEONE’S LIFE,” ANJI SAYS.
“When we get calls from clients who are crying on the phone because they have reunited with a long-lost family member or a parent they didn’t know they had, or they won custody of their children and their children are going to be safe—we’re all crying in the office. That’s when I can say, ‘I love doing my job.’ ”
tor is trained in both ethics and professionalism. “Ethics aren’t optional here. We either can do it or we can’t—end of story.”
Yet even when they follow every law and operate with strict ethics, private investigators often face suspicion when they’re out in the field. Overly curious neighbors may notice an unfamiliar car parked too long and accidentally blow an agent’s cover. But an investigator’s presence can benefit the community. Anji recalls a time her team was on surveillance in a neighborhood and happened to see someone breaking into a car, preventing the theft by reporting it to the police. “It’s good having us,” she says. “We’re actually making sure your whole neighborhood is safe.”
Bring
by Ann Marie Kennon
A Dream Years in the Making Becomes Reality
For decades, Georgetown families have dreamed of having a YMCA facility of their own. That dream is now about to break ground. With cornerstone support from Sport Clips, the W.D. Kelley Foundation, and the Georgetown Health Foundation— joined by the City of Georgetown and countless generous residents—the vision has come to life.
With a recent $500,000 gift from H-E-B, the new Georgetown YMCA is set to open its doors in 2027, providing the full range of programs and amenities the Y is known for nationwide.
TGORDON LOGAN ON LEADING THE WAY
Sport Clips Haircuts is proud to have led the capital campaign with our initial commitment of $1M to kick-start the fund raising. We are excited about the soonto-be-a-reality of the Sport Clips Georgetown Family YMCA on land adjacent to Wellspring Methodist Church, which was facilitated by George and Barbara Brightwell. This is a much-needed addition to the city’s recreational facilities west of I-35, which has experienced rapid growth the past few years and will continue to grow at a rapid pace.
Cat Phelps has been a key part of the YMCA’s success in Georgetown, and she will be an outstanding executive director when the new facility is completed in 2027. This has been a true community effort, with cornerstone donations from H-E-B, W.D. Kelley Foundation, and the Georgetown Health Foundation, and support from many other Georgetown residents. It’s been a long road, but we are excited for this wonderful addition to the Georgetown community. We still need some help to reach our goal, but we are confident that Georgetown will rise to the occasion to make this a truly exceptional facility.
he journey began when a group of local leaders were invited to serve as founders of a potential YMCA in Georgetown. Among them was Ron Garland, a name long associated with youth development in Georgetown. “There were seven or eight of us who were asked to look at the future of the YMCA and its capability in Georgetown,” Ron recalls. “It had been discussed before, but no real progress had been made. When leadership decided the time was right, we committed to making it happen.”
Among the earliest champions were the late George and Barbara Brightwell, widely admired for their dedication to youth advocacy and community causes in Georgetown. They partnered with Wellspring United Methodist Church to provide space for summer day camps, which became the foundation of Georgetown’s Y presence. This summer marks the fourth year of two-month-long programming on that same site— land that will eventually house the new facility.
A COMMUNITY-WIDE EFFORT
Momentum grew when the YMCA of Central Texas appointed Executive Director Cat Phelps to lead the charge. Alongside the first Georgetown YMCA board president, Danny Meigs, she helped build a volunteer board that today numbers 30 strong.
The real breakthrough came when the City of Georgetown committed $10 million to the project after several attempts to pass an ISD voter bond. "That partnership was the turning point." says Laura Arredondo, Chief Marketing Officer at YMCA of Central Texas. "Without the city’s support, the YMCA would not be nearly the size or scope it is today. We worked tirelessly to give the community what it wanted in a YMCA facility and without the city’s investment, it would have been a very different experience.”
Subsequently, the fundraising effort began to take off under the leadership of Gordon Logan, founder and chairman of Sport Clips. Cornerstone commitments from Sport Clips, the W.D. Kelley Foundation, and the Georgetown Health Foundation laid the financial foundation for success. Their early gifts, combined with the generosity of many local families and businesses, built the momentum that carried the campaign forward. And in late 2024, H-E-B stepped in with a $500,000 contribution to help bring the project across the finish line.
WHAT THE FACILITY WILL OFFER
While the Georgetown Family YMCA storefront on Williams Drive has been a welcome beginning—offering yoga, childcare, and swim les-
sons—residents are eager for more. The new 55,000-square-foot facility will deliver just that, with a gymnasium, fitness center, indoor pool, multipurpose rooms, and dedicated youth spaces. Once open, it will allow Georgetown families to experience the full spectrum of YMCA programs, from robotics and martial arts to arts, outdoor education, and eSports.
“The Y has always been about more than fitness,” Ron says. “It’s about leadership development, socialization, teamwork, and helping kids—and adults—find their niche. That’s why it’s so important that Georgetown finally has a YMCA of its own.”
LOOKING BACK— AND AHEAD
For Ron, one of the most rewarding moments came when he visited the day camp in operation. “Watching the leadership being provided to those young people—it excited me,” he says. “It confirmed that Georgetown is ready for its own YMCA under local leadership, and it made me grateful to be part of bringing it here.”
With groundbreaking expected later this year, the founders, board, and community are celebrating a milestone decades in the making. Yet they are also looking ahead to the work still to come—raising awareness, overseeing construction, and preparing to launch new programs that will enrich the lives of Georgetown families. As Ron puts it: “The YMCA is about turning out good citizens and good leaders for the future. We’re building more than a building—we’re building a stronger Georgetown.”
by Charlotte Kovalchuk •
Citizens Step Up
Georgetown Makes Its Voice Heard at the Capitol
This year, Georgetown leadership took an active role in the Texas legislative session, ensuring the city's priorities—and residents’ voices—are heard at the state level.
We were actually engaged pretty heavily in 2021 and 2023, mainly working behind the scenes to try and impact legislation,” Mayor Josh Schroeder says, “but this was the first year we spent a lot of time testifying on particular bills and using social media to make the community more aware of what we were doing during the session.”
At the center of Georgetown’s push in Austin was one principle: local control. But the Legislature has chipped away at that authority, Mayor Schroeder says, dictating everything from how many police officers the city can hire, where apartments or mobile homes can be built, and how Georgetown must shoulder the cost of infrastructure for rapid growth it cannot regulate. “We spend so much time engaging our community and trying to ascertain what people want and what their vision is for Georgetown,” he says. “But since being elected, I’ve realized just how little say we have after years of legislation chipping away at local control. It’s time for the pendulum to swing back.”
Helping to further that goal is the Legislative Task Force, a nine-member board of volunteers appointed by the Georgetown City Council. Representing a wide range of community interests, this team helps shape Georgetown’s legislative agenda in preparation for each session. Members not only advise the council but also advocate directly, sharing priorities with lawmakers and neighbors alike. The city’s 2025 Legislative Agenda re-
flects this collaborative approach. Developed with input from city departments, council subcommittees, and residents, it lays out Georgetown’s positions on key issues: protecting local control in planning and zoning, safeguarding utilities, ensuring fiscal flexibility, strengthening fire and police resources, investing in transportation, and securing long-term water supplies.
ADVOCACY IN ACTION
That agenda guided the city’s work at the capitol during the 89th Legislative Session, which ran from January to June. Five bills in particular—SB 15, 840, 854, 517, and 616—drew Georgetown’s focus.
SB 15 and SB 840, which threatened city authority over housing density and impact fees, were amended to apply only to cities with more than 150,000 residents. “Huge,” Mayor Schroeder says of the amendment. “It would not have happened without the community’s outreach to our elected officials. I guarantee it.”
City Manager David Morgan, Mayor Josh Schroeder, and TX Senator Charles Schwertner
The city also worked to oppose SB 854, which sought to streamline the development of multifamily and mixed-use housing on religious land by restricting a city’s ability to apply zoning requirements, impose special use permits, or enforce regulations.
At the same time, Georgetown championed SB 517, which prevented homeowners’ associations from fining residents for brown lawns during drought restrictions. “It was honestly a no-brainer,” Mayor Schroeder says. “It can be very difficult to amend deed restrictions that force HOAs to fine homeowners for having brown lawns, and if HOAs don’t enforce one restriction, there is a danger they can waive other restrictions, so the HOAs
were honestly happy to have us step in and resolve this catch-22 where the city was telling people they couldn’t water, and HOAs were telling them they had to water.”
Meanwhile, SB 616 opened the door for cities to store treated water underground for future use—a vital step for Georgetown’s longterm water master plan.
Mayor Schroeder credits the city’s victories to active partnerships with lawmakers especially Representative Terry Wilson and the persistent voices of residents. A social media “tweet-along” with
POWERING POLICY CHANGE
legislators like Sen. Charles Schwertner and Rep. Caroline Davila (pictured) amplified the city’s message, while direct calls and testimony from residents reinforced it. “I can guarantee you it made a huge difference,” Mayor Schroeder says. “We had other state electeds’ offices call us and tell us to tell our citizens to stop bothering them! I loved it. We may not win every battle, but we are going to make our voices heard.”
Looking ahead, he says the city must continue pushing for relief from SB 2038, the 2023 law allowing landowners to unilaterally remove their property from a city’s extraterritorial jurisdiction. He also pointed to the need for stronger oversight of wastewater “package plants” that could pose environmental and infrastructure challenges.
Mayor Schroeder emphasizes Georgetown’s successes at the Capitol are not won by city officials alone— they depend on the participation of its citizens. Here are some ways residents can make their voices heard and help shape Georgetown’s future:
Join the process. Georgetown’s legislative agenda is created in a public process, with open meetings where community voices help shape priorities.
Contact elected officials. A quick email or phone call to your state representatives can have more influence than people think.
Testify at the Capitol. Speaking at a committee hearing carries tremendous weight. “One unpaid, unelected citizen who takes the time to drive down to Austin and speak on an issue has way more impact than I do as mayor,” Mayor Schroeder says.
Scan the code to learn more about getting involved in Georgetown’s future legislative efforts.
Mayor Schroeder, TX Rep. Caroline Davila, and City Manager David Morgan
ASK A PRO • KIDS & FAMILY
Before They Dive In Smart Tips for Choosing a Swim School
With swimming season just around the corner, now is the perfect time to start thinking about swim lessons! Whether you’re just beginning to explore swim schools or have looked into a few options already, we know that choosing the right swim school for your child is an important decision—one that requires careful and deliberate consideration.
To help you find the right fit, we’ve compiled a list of what to look for when you begin your swim school search. Read on for our priority considerations when choosing a swim school.
1. SAFETY FIRST
Safety is every parent’s top priority, and it should be that of any swim school, too. Look for schools that teach proficient swimming as a lifelong skill, not just “get-to-theedge” techniques.
2. SMALL CLASS SIZES
Learn what the instructor-to-student ratio is at each swim school. Smaller class sizes allow children to receive more individualized attention, which helps them succeed. Class size is also important for social interaction. Swim lessons give children an opportunity to meet new friends and develop relationships.
3. CURRICULUM CENTERED AROUND PROGRESS
A swim school’s curriculum should have a foundation in childhood development and offer a clear path to becoming a safe and confident swimmer. Every child learns at their own pace and in their own unique way. Swim instructors should recognize this and be willing to adapt their
teaching styles as needed, helping your child to understand and progress.
4. QUALIFIED, FRIENDLY INSTRUCTORS
Similar to traditional schooling, finding swim instructors who are certified and highly trained is important. The length and quality of this training matters, too. Ask how many hours of training each instructor is required to complete and what this training consists of. Swim instructors should also have a friendly, welcoming attitude, a deep level of patience and the ability to help new swimmers feel at ease, building trust and excitement for each lesson.
5. FAMILY-FRIENDLY FLEXIBILITY
Make it easier on yourself by finding a swim school that offers weekend or evening classes and a clear make-up policy in case of illness or vacations.
6. HASSLE-FREE MONTHLY PRICING
Schools that have a consistent monthly rate make tuition more budget-friendly, easier to plan for, and an even better value in five-week months. That way, you can focus on what truly matters: your child’s safety, confidence and progress in the pool.
7. PROVEN EXPERIENCE AND REPUTATION
Discover how long the school has been teaching, what their reputation is in the community, and how parents feel about their programs. Online reviews and word-of-mouth recommendations can give you insight into the school’s consistency, approach and success in helping kids become safe, confident swimmers.
by Charlotte Kovalchuk
Multi-Generational Living
Moore Liberty Buildings Helps Families Stay Connected with ADUs
Every week, Chad and Amanda Moore of Moore Liberty Buildings receive calls from people facing similar challenges: helping adult children who can’t yet afford their own home, caring for aging parents, and keeping family members close without the cost of living on different properties. The Moores’ solution—helping families stay connected by building accessory dwelling units (ADUs): secondary living spaces built on the same property. “People are looking for extra, affordable space where their family can stay together,” Chad says. “We’re very family-oriented ourselves, so we love helping people create space for their family.” Amanda adds, “We hear it every week: families want to bring everyone
together on the same property. They’re looking for ways to make that possible without breaking the bank.”
Across the country, multi-generational living is on the rise, with families turning to ADUs as a practical way to keep loved ones close. According to Global Growth Insights, nearly 49 percent of U.S. homeowners are exploring ADU construction for rental income or to accommodate aging family members. Similarly, barndominiums, or barndos—metal-clad homes that blend barn aesthetics with residential comfort—saw an 8 percent increase in interest from 2023 to 2024, highlighting their appeal as affordable, customizable living spaces.
Moore
Budget and Cost Considerations
Property and Site Readiness
COST VS. SIZE: Smaller spaces can be more expensive per square foot due to plumbing and utility placement. Studios (350–400 sq. ft.) start around $80,000, while full barndos may cost more than $300,000. Larger layouts with open spaces can be more cost-effective per square foot. Amanda notes, “Some families are surprised that smaller doesn’t always mean cheaper—plumbing and utilities compress costs in tiny layouts.”
INTERIOR LAYOUT: Kitchens and bathrooms drive costs more than the number of bedrooms. One-bedroom units typically range 450–800 sq. ft., two-bedroom, two-bath units 800–1,200 sq. ft.
FINANCING OPTIONS: Explore home improvement loans, home equity lines of credit, or construction loans. Credit unions and rural/ agricultural lenders often provide favorable terms.
PROPERTY TAXES: Adding an ADU can increase your tax assessment, so include this in your financial planning.
UTILITIES: Ensure your property can handle extra plumbing, electricity, and septic needs. Upgrades may be necessary, which can significantly affect costs.
ACCESS AND LANDSCAPING: Consider driveways, pathways, and decks connecting structures. Will existing landscaping need updates? “Even small changes—a new path or deck—can affect cost and timeline,” Amanda explains.
ZONING AND PERMITS: Verify city limits, HOA rules, setback requirements, and local permitting guidelines. Moore Liberty Buildings can handle the permit process from start to finish.
Design, Layout, and Aesthetics
SPACE PLANNING: Determine how many bedrooms and bathrooms are needed for your family’s lifestyle.
SIZE VS. FUNCTIONALITY: A compact studio may be efficient but can cost more per square foot than a larger unit.
VISUAL APPEAL: Families want buildings that look beautiful while remaining practical and within budget. Balancing size, aesthetics, and affordability is key.
Family Needs and Lifestyle
WHO WILL LIVE THERE: Consider whether the space is for aging parents, adult children, or other loved ones you wish to accommodate. Purpose informs layout, size, and features.
DIY VS. TURNKEY: Skilled homeowners may handle carpentry, electrical, or plumbing, while others prefer a fully finished building. Moore Liberty Buildings accommodates all levels of involvement.
TIMELINE: Permitting, financing, and construction typically take four to six months—plan accordingly to fit your family’s needs.
No matter the size or layout, ADUs give families a way to stay connected, and with Moore Liberty Buildings’ expertise and guidance, creating the right space for your loved ones has never been easier.
To learn more about adding an ADU to your property, call 512-548-6474 or visit moorelibertybuildings.com.
Bring
Investing in EDUCATORS
GISD BALANCES BUDGET AND COMPENSATION INCREASES FOR ALL
For the first time in several years, Georgetown ISD has adopted a balanced budget—a milestone achievement that will enable the district to invest directly in its teachers, staff, and students. Despite no increase in state funding since 2019 and rising costs for utilities and insurance, GISD strengthened its financial footing and prioritized compensation and resources for its employees in 2025—the first year the district saw an increase in state funding since 2019.
For teachers, that means bigger paychecks, with starting salaries increasing from $56,500 to $57,000 and additional raises for those with more experience. House Bill 2 provides retention allotments of $2,500 for teachers with three to four years of classroom experience and $5,000 for those with five or more. These raises, GISD Communications Director Melinda Brasher says, support the district’s priority work to recruit and retain staff and help ensure GISD remains competitive in the local job market.
And it’s not just teachers—paychecks are increasing across the district, from the front office to the bus lot. Bus drivers, paraprofessionals, and office staff will see hourly raises, dyslexia teachers’ stipends are doubling, and the district is contributing more toward health benefits. Melinda emphasizes the importance of including all staff: “From the bus driver who is the first to greet a student in the morning to the child nutrition staff member who feeds every student, to the teaching and learning team who are guiding the academic growth of our
students, it takes everyone, every role, to contribute to the learning, growth, and progress of our students.”
These raises were made possible through careful planning and thoughtful use of resources. GISD reduced staff and adjusted calendars, trimmed departmental budgets, and restructured programs to run more effectively.
by Charlotte Kovalchuk
FOSTERING GROWTH AND OPPORTUNITY
Beyond salary increases, GISD is also rolling out programs designed to strengthen its workforce. The G.R.E.A.T. program helps paraprofessionals earn their bachelor’s degree and teaching certification while being paid at a higher rate, creating a nearly $30,000 jump in annual salary once they transition to certified teachers. Another initiative covers the cost for teachers pursuing National Board Certification, removing financial barriers to a credential that brings lifelong professional and financial benefits.
“Our number one priority is student learning, growth, and progress,” Melinda says. “That can’t happen without systems in place to support it. We are grateful to our Board of Trustees for establishing clear priorities to guide this process, to our staff for their thoughtful and collaborative feedback, and to our community for staying engaged and informed.”
Built to last. Designed to love.
RESTAURANT
SUNDAYS AT PIGNETTI’S Enjoy a relaxed dining experience from 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM.
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HOURS:
Let Your Pet Be Our Guest!
Hiking Georgetown’s Trails with Your Best Furry Friend
Georgetown is home to an incredible variety of hiking trails, and exploring them with a dog makes the experience even more rewarding. Local favorites like San Gabriel Park and Blue Hole offer scenic strolls where you and your pup can enjoy fresh air, open space, and riverside views. For a truly special outing, venture to Crockett Garden Falls, a hidden gem along the Good Water Loop where a waterfall spills into a shaded pool—a perfect spot for a mid-hike rest.
When you hit the trails, remember to bring plenty of water and a tasty snack for your four-legged hiking buddy. Check trail guides ahead of time to make sure pets are allowed, and always keep your dog on a leash—not just because it’s the safest choice, but because it’s also Texas state law.
FINDING YOUR NEW ADVENTURE BUDDY
Don’t have a dog to join you yet? Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter (WCRAS) can help you find your perfect adventure partner. With two locations—the main shelter and the Red Poppy Adoptique, located right next to gorgeous San Gabriel Park—it’s never been easier to meet adoptable dogs who would love to explore the outdoors with you.
Not ready for a long-term commitment? The DOGGY DAY OUT daytime foster program is the perfect way to enjoy Georgetown’s beauty with a canine companion, no strings attached. Imagine taking a shelter dog for an afternoon hike along the Bill Pickett Trail, soaking in the sights, and then returning them to the shelter at the end of the day. Of course, if you fall in love, you can always extend your foster—or make the adventure permanent through adoption.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or new to Georgetown’s trails, having a dog by your side makes the journey even better. So lace up, leash up, and get ready to explore!
To learn more, scan the code to visit wilcotx.gov/pets.
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FORMIDABLE FEMALES Who Helped Shape Texas
WHAT MAKES TEXAS
by Linda A. Thornton
photos in public domain
Courage, grit, moxie: though these Texas women were from different eras, they all shared the same sense of determination. Never accepting defeat, here are some of the ladies who “pushed the envelope,” delivering success at every turn.
Susanna Dickinson, Clara Driscoll, Adina De Zavala
SUPPORTERS OF THE ALAMO
Susanna Dickinson and her infant daughter were among the few Americans who survived the 1836 Battle of the Alamo during the Texas Revolution.
She is known for relaying the message of Texas’ defeat to Sam Houston, commander of the Texas army. Her eyewitness accounts of the battle brought historical accuracy to this important event.
Left widowed and penniless, Susanna felt compelled to testify on behalf of families of Alamo defenders so they could claim land granted by the Republic of Texas for their military service at the Alamo.
When Adina De Zavala, a member of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas, learned of the threat to tear down the historic Alamo, she contacted Clara Driscoll, an heiress and fellow preservationist, who provided the funds to purchase the Alamo.
Mary Kay Ash FOUNDER MARY KAY COSMETICS
At 45 years old, Mary Kay resigned from Stanley Home Products and started Mary Kay Cosmetics.
She adopted the same multi-level business model used by Stanley. Her all-woman sales team received commission from their direct sales and from the sales of the sales staff they recruited.
Home parties allowed for pitching the product line to multiple customers at once. Products were sold at double the price of their competitor, Avon.
At the time of her death in 2001, her company had over 800,000 representatives in 37 countries, with total annual sales of over $200 million, and her top performers were still vying for the prestigious reward of a Mary Kay Pink Cadillac.
TEXAS WOMEN
“Lady Bird” Johnson FIRST LADY AND ENVIRONMENTAL ADVOCATE
When her nursemaid said that Claudia Alta was as “pretty as a ladybird,” the infant’s nickname became her name for life. Lyndon Johnson - LBJ - proposed on their first date at the Driskill Hotel, and they were married ten weeks later. Lady Bird used some of her inheritance to fund his congressional campaign and ran his office while he served in the Navy.
Despite LBJ’s objections, she purchased an Austin radio station with her inheritance, negotiated an agreement with the CBS radio network, and purchased a television station. Lady Bird was the first president’s wife to become a millionaire in her own right, turning her initial $41,000 investment into more than $150 million.
As first lady, she initiated interacting directly with Congress, employing a press secretary, and making solo campaign tours. She advocated for the Highway Beautification Act, which became known as “Lady Bird’s Bill” and received the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest honor bestowed on a U.S. civilian by Congress.
Barbara Jordan
POLITICIAN, CIVIL RIGHTS LEADER, AMERICAN LAWYER, EDUCATOR AND POLITICIAN
Barbara Jordan was the first African American elected to the Texas Senate and the first African American woman elected to the U.S. House of Representatives. Her powerful opening statement at the House Judiciary Committee hearings during Richard Nixon’s impeachment process brought her instant fame.
In 1976, she became the first African American and the first woman to deliver a keynote address at the Democratic National Convention. She is the recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian award, bestowed on a civilian by the president.
Ann Richards
SECOND FEMALE GOVERNOR OF TEXAS
She first received national attention as Texas State Treasurer when she gave the keynote address at the 1988 Democratic National Convention.
Famous for her outspoken feminism and her one-liners – a joke delivered in a single sentence – she is known for her appointments of women and minorities to high-level posts.
As governor, she introduced the concept of site-based management into the educational system, which put more power into the hands of parents and teachers. She increased prison space and introduced a substance abuse program into Texas prisons, and opposed the sale of assault weapons.
Selena MEXICAN AMERICAN SINGER/SONGWRITER
Selena Quintanilla-Pérez, and her band, Los Dinos, gained popularity in the 1980s when she won a Grammy for her album Selena Live! Known as the “Queen of Tejano Music” and based on her contributions to music and fashion, Billboard magazine ranked her in third place on their 2020 list of “Greatest Latino Artists of All Time.”
Tragically, the life of the beloved singer was cut short when she was murdered by the founder of her fan club at the age of 23 years old.
by Charlotte Kovalchuk
Newman’s Castle
A MEDIEVAL GEM IN THE TEXAS COUNTRYSIDE
Just outside Bellville, Texas, is a scene that looks straight out of a fairytale: a full-scale medieval castle complete with a drawbridge, moat, towers, and a dungeon amid the rolling hills of a small Texas town.
It may look like a relic from centuries past, but this unique landmark isn’t ancient—it’s the dream of a smalltown baker who decided to bring a piece of Europe to Texas. The idea was sparked decades ago, after Mike Newman (inset) graduated from high school and spent several years wandering through Europe. There, he became enchanted by the towering castles of the 14th century. Years later, when he bought land in Bellville, he originally planned to build a simple ranch-style home—until a friend’s offhand quip changed his mind: “Well, Mike, a man’s house is his castle.” Mike took the idea literally, breaking ground in 1998 and spending nearly two decades bringing his unlikely dream to life. As his nephew says, once Mike got an idea in his head, there was no shaking it. “He was a very strong-willed man,” says Chad Welty, who now runs the castle alongside his wife, Amanda. “When he gets something stuck in his head, that’s what he does.”
BELLVILLE’S LOCAL LEGEND
Back in town, Mike was already a familiar face. He had opened Newman’s Bakery in the 1980s, so when word spread that the baker had also built a castle, curiosity followed. The first official visitors arrived by bus from Harris County—a group of seniors eager to see the medieval fortress. Soon, tour groups became a steady rhythm, with Mike himself guiding guests through his labor of love. What began as a personal passion turned into a thriving local attraction. “He was just really proud of it,” Chad recalls. “He loved talking to people about the castle. And he was a businessman—he figured, sure, if people want to come visit, why not?”
Mike passed away in 2024, but his imaginative legacy lives on. Chad and Amanda are determined to continue what he started, expanding the property into not just a castle, but a full medieval experience. They’re already brainstorming additions like a medieval village, more event spaces, and overnight stays that would let visitors fully immerse themselves in the old-world fantasy.
• photos courtesy Newman's Castle
For Chad, the castle is more than a unique tourist attraction—it serves as inspiration to dream big. “The whole purpose was to inspire people,” he says. “To show that you can do something crazy, and it can work.”
WHEN YOU GO
The castle is about a two-hour drive from Georgetown and tours are available Monday through Saturday at 11am, with reservations required. Once inside the castle grounds, plan for about 90 minutes of exploration—wandering around the moat, climbing towers, and peeking into the dungeon—before gathering for a simple lunch of sandwiches, chips, and fresh-baked treats, all included in the ticket price ($20 for adults, $15 for children). Sturdy shoes are essential for the pebbled paths and outdoor terrain, and those enchanted by the setting can return for special oc-
casions: the castle also serves as a storybook backdrop for weddings, wine tastings, birthdays, and other private events.
A 7-minute drive from the castle, Newman’s Bakery offers its own kind of local magic. A Bellville staple since the 1980s, it opens at 4am to greet early risers with coffee, quiches, kolaches, cinnamon buns, croissants, and donuts, along with daily soup specials. Pairing the bakery’s cozy comfort food with the castle’s awe-inspiring grandeur makes for a memorable day steeped in medieval fantasy.
September brings the autumnal equinox, that point in time when day and night are of equal length. The following days will get shorter and the nights longer. Ancient civilizations used this entry into the autumn season as a time to celebrate the fruits of one’s labor, begin the harvest, and prepare for the famine months that would come after December’s winter solstice. Whether or not a civilization would thrive or perish depended on decisions made during this period and actions taken in the ensuing months. Although the circumstances of our modern world differ greatly from ancient times, it’s still useful to use September as a month for reflection and renewal.
This year, you might contemplate: “Who is the real me?"
I once heard legendary football coach Lou Holtz give a graduation speech along those lines. He described two paths facing the graduates. One was the path you were PAID FOR. That’s your job, your career, the way you sustain yourself in life’s journey. The other is the path you were MADE FOR, where you discover the “real you” and live your life accordingly.
Finding the Real You
Coach Holtz noted that in an ideal world these two paths converge. You would get paid for what you were made for, and you would spend your life working on what really mattered to you, what you enjoyed, and in an arena where you likely excelled. But life sometimes isn’t like that. Sometimes, you have to do what you get paid for to achieve financial stability so you can do what you’re really made for.
The 55+ portal is a fork in the road and a perfect time to examine the path you’re on, figure out the path upon which you want to be, and move ahead. Here are some true stories about people we’ve known over the years who did just that.
NORM
AND BETTY
WERE APPROACHING RETIREMENT.
They were great socializers. She was a fabulous cook and Norm was, well…“a character in his own right”. Both were “people-people”. They had traveled quite a bit and fell in love with the Bed & Breakfast concept. It was “them” and they imagined themselves owning one. But they had no business experience, and they had only owned one home in their 30 years in the Navy. Undeterred, they bought an 8,000 sq-ft, multi-bedroom place in east Tennessee.
After a lot of restoration, repair and re-design they were ready to open. They hired staff, Betty cooked and supervised the kitchen, and Norm, well…was entertaining. It was an exhausting experience, but it worked out to fulfill their dreams, their time, and (thankfully) their pocketbooks.
Fought
TED WAS A MECHANICAL ENGINEER. He collected highend antique clocks and watches. One of them broke, and the experts he usually depended on for repairs couldn’t fix it. So, being an engineer (they can fix anything you know), he took it apart, figured out the problem, bought a couple of specialized tools, and got it working again. He was hooked and would eventually have his own watch/repair shop in his garage (with lots of fancy equipment), focused on antique watches/clocks (especially grandfather and cuckoo clocks). He didn’t make a lot of money, but did make a lot of new friends and had a great time in the process.
SONNY WAS A SUCCESSFUL CIVIL ENGINEER with 25 years of practice in the field. He had a passion for history, especially military history. When his grandfather passed away, Sonny was given a volume of diaries written by his great-grandfather during the four-year period he served in the northern army in the U.S. Civil War. Sonny contacted the history department of the state university and proposed a doctoral program for himself with a dissertation based on transcribing, interpreting, and adding historical context to the diaries. Upon completion of his PhD, Sonny was selected to join the faculty and subsequently donated the original diaries to the university.
Several friends parlayed their love of travel into careers as professional travel agents and tour guides. We know a couple of individuals who were called to the ministry, even after long careers far afield from the pulpit. Others turned to volunteer work and applied their executive skills in the non-profit world. We even know one or two folks who took their talents to the interior of distant lands to help bring modern technology and conveniences to the local population.
There are many others but the point here is that you can shift gears. Still, in order to succeed you probably need to do some introspection and determine what REALLY matters to you. From there you can chart your course to fulfill your life mission.
Focus on the future. Look ahead, not behind. You can’t steer a boat by looking at the wake. Clear away the could’a, would’a, should’a narrative. Hit delete on the thought that you could’a done this, or you would’a done that, or that you should’a done something else. Focus on what you enjoy because that’s what you are likely to do well, and equally likely to be what you’re made for.
Jettison the burdens of past personal relationships gone-wrong. Don’t underestimate the power of forgive-
ness. When you forgive, you absolve yourself of any responsibility for change and pass the burden of change to the person who committed the offense. It can be like lifting a bag of rocks off your back, and you can get on with life.
The individuals in my examples were all ordinary people who, given the opportunity, made the extraordinary discovery of what they were really made for. Every one of us has that sort of hidden pathway inside us. What we need to do is take a good look at the things that really excite us and bring us joy. Those things will mark the pathway.
Fortunately, you don’t have to leave home to explore the possibilities and find the path for which you were made. Georgetown has ample opportunities to bring those dreams to life, in business, in hobbies, through travel, or especially in the non-profit community, many of which you can read about in previous editions of the Georgetown View1.
Every living thing serves a purpose. Discover yours, clear the path, and...
Go for it !
Inner Space Cavern
One of the best preserved caves in Texas, Inner Space Cavern has hosted hundreds of thousands of visitors since 1966 and offers a variety of activities year round.
• 4200 S IH-35 Georgetown
Paleontology is the scientific study of past life. Paleontologists use fossils to piece together the history of Earth. Fossils are any evidence of past life—bones, teeth, shells, molds, casts, dinosaur tracks, worm burrows, gastroliths (stomach stones), petrified wood, leaves, and pollen.
Caves often contain two very different ages of fossils: those in the rock from which the cave formed, and younger fossils from animals that entered or washed in later. The fossils in cave rock reveal environments from hundreds of millions of years ago.
The Importance of Caves to Paleontology
The Pleistocene Epoch, or Ice Age, spanned from 2.58 million to 11,700 years ago, with many warm and cold intervals. Though ice sheets never reached Texas, Ice Age animals roamed here. The Edwards Plateau contains 19 Late Pleistocene sites, 18 of them caves. Most record the last glacial interval, between 20,000 and 11,700 years ago.
Friesenhahn Cave near San Antonio has yielded many remains of Homotherium (saber-toothed cat) and dozens of juvenile mammoth teeth, suggesting the cats used the cave as a den. Inner Space Cavern in Georgetown was discovered in 1963 during highway construction. Dr. Slaughter and Dr. Lundelius identified 44 animal species, including modern ones (bats, jaguar, white-tailed deer), those now absent from the area (black-tailed prairie dog), and extinct species (beautiful armadillo, Simpson’s glyptodont, Jefferson’s ground sloth, scimitar cat, mammoth, and a large extinct pronghorn).
For example, during the Cretaceous Period, the Western Inland Seaway stretched from the Gulf to the Arctic, separating Eastern and Western North America. Central Texas limestone, evidence of this seaway, contains fossils of sea life, such as rudist bivalves (above)—clams that formed reefs. Sediments and shells accumulated on the ocean bottom and became rock.
Limestone, common in Central Texas, dissolves easily when carbon dioxide in rainwater forms weak acid, eroding the rock and forming caves. Some caves have surface entrances used by animals like opossums, snakes, birds, and bats. Predators such as cats and owls may drag prey inside, while rain can wash in remains. Because caves are stable environments with constant temperature and humidity, fossils inside are better preserved than on the surface.
Dr. John Moretti (below) later dated fossils from Inner Space, showing the site contains remains from about 47,000 to 9,500 years ago—older than any other Texas locality. These fossils reveal Texas’ natural history. For example, black-tailed prairie dogs once lived in Georgetown, but thinning soils over time drove them away. Questions remain, such as why white-tailed deer survived while many species went extinct at the end of the Ice Age.
Studies of these sites deepen our understanding of Earth’s history, past ecosystems, extinctions, and climate. As research continues, our view of the past evolves.
Further Resources:
• Ice Age Cave Faunas of North America (Indiana University Press)
Mammoths by Adrian Lister and Paul Bahn
First Peoples in a New World by David J. Meltzer
Florida Museum of Natural History: Floridamuseum.ufl.edu/ florida-vertebrate-fossils
• Texas Before History: https://www.texasbeyondhistory.net/ explorer.html
by Ann Marie Kennon
My Name is Poppy and I'm a Digital Hoarder
School started last month for most of us—my family included. My son is in the 10th grade now, which sounds fictional, but apparently it’s real. One minute he was wobbling through pre-K with Goldfish crumbs on his cheeks, and now he has to tilt his head down to look me in the eye when asking questions I can’t answer about Algebra 2 and airsoft gear.
Maybe that’s why, in the run-up to back-to-school chaos, I finally pulled the trigger on a new desktop computer. My old Mac—loyal but laggy—had been running on the “click, make a sandwich” cycle long enough. It had served me well for six years with its 4TB hard drive, but transferring data packets in the cloud for hours on end had worn it down in the slow, creeping way we outgrow jeans we still swear fit.
So, after steeling myself for the budget hit, explaining to hubby that this was necessary, and asking ChatGPT dozens of questions comparing processors and ports, I closed my eyes and clicked “buy.”
I was told the new Mac didn’t need a big hard drive because “everything’s in the cloud.” Which is adorable. Clearly, they didn’t know who they were dealing with.
Also—and I mean this with every fiber of my analog soul—I am so sick of not owning anything. That 2TB hard drive is just one more reminder that we now forever rent our digital lives. Subscriptions for apps, subscriptions for fonts, subscriptions for storage… even music I “buy” isn’t really mine. I can’t make a mix tape anymore—not the kind that sounded like a soft hiss and a heart poured onto a fragile magnetic ribbon. Those tapes were how we shared joy and heartbreak with friends and sweethearts.
Now? If Adobe gets bored or decides to cancel me, they could revoke my apps and I'd lose my job by lunchtime. And we’re all just supposed to smile and accept that. But I digress.
When moving old Mac to new Mac, I realized very quickly: it would never fit. The JPGs and MPGs alone number 228,000. I have backups of user folders from every computer I’ve owned since 2010. I have every tax return, invoice, Poppy draft, Christmas card photo, and sooo many copies of the video of BabyJack laughing at me fake-sneezing at him in the highchair.
Why? Because the moment I delete something, I will need it. Right now, my younger brother is looking for a new job for the first time in TEN years and his resume was one of those "Why do I still have this?" files I deleted from the old machine.
So of course I bought a 16-terabyte external I lovingly named “MonsterDrive,” because 16TB feels virtually limitless—for now. And, because my tech-nerd big brother understands technology and me, he gently suggested I also get an SSD—with no moving parts, the kind that might still be humming quietly on Jack’s desk in 30 years when he’s introducing his own children to “all the baby pictures your Mimi saved.”
That new and ridiculously tiny drive—about the size of a deck of cards—now holds 4TB of the most precious clutter of my life. And for those keeping score at home, that’s the equivalent of 3.3 million floppy disks.
Yes, I’m still-doing-floppy-disk-math-on-the-OregonTrail years old. I was there when computers clicked and whirred and made us feel like something magical was happening behind the screen.
Still, I’m not embarrassed by the pixelated Museum of Poppy I’ve curated. The beauty of digital photography is that I can take 50 shots to get one perfect one. The problem with me is that I can’t bring myself to delete the other 49. Because what if one of them captured a millisecond of BabyJack’s soul that the others missed?
But someday—and I say this with a touch of momancholy—Jack won’t have to rent a dumpster to clean out my house. He can just smile at the memory of his weird old mom… and press “delete.”
Or just maybe... he’ll open that tiny little drive, drag the tax returns to the Trash, then swipe through a few thousand photos, and realize his momma didn’t want to lose even a bit... or a byte of the people she loved.
So, to all you parents who just whispered, “Hm... I do that too,” with phones full of nearly identical photos—the blink, the smile, the slightly better smile—and who never delete any of them, because what if that’s the one…
Maybe that’s not hoarding. Maybe that’s legacy.
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Aqu Tots Swim School
Austin Orthopedic Institute - Dr. Brett Robin
Austin Window Fashions
The Barton House
Blinded by the Light
Cockrum Homes
Countryside Pet Resort
Doleva Elite Tree
DTC Air Conditioning & Heating
Family Emergency Room of Georgetown
Gene’s Auto Repair & Service Center
Georgetown Chamber of Commerce
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Georgetown ISD
Georgetown Palace Theater
Grand Endeavor Homes
Hall’s Roofing & Sheel Metal, Inc.
Innerspace Cavern
Jarrell ISD
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Moore Liberty Buildings
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