Boerne, TX May 2023

Ladies Issue

Experience clearer hearing

Tired of struggling to hear and understand conversations in crowded or noisy environments? Do you feel left out of social situations because of your hearing loss? It’s time to take control of your hearing, improve your quality of life and hear clearer today!

With such a wide selection of hearing aids, we know we have the right product to match your lifestyle.

From listening to music to playing pickleball and more—our devices are designed for you, and we guarantee your hearing satisfaction!

Did you know that May is Better Hearing month? Come celebrate with us, and take the next step in hearing, today!

Ladies Issue

I love any opportunity to recognize the women in my life who make life more rich and beautiful - mothers, sisters (mia sorella), daughters, grandmothers, and girlfriends to name just a few. And of course with Mother’s Day this month, all eyes are on moms … But it’s not just biological mothers, but also the mother figures in our lives who have made indelible impacts on us. This includes teachers, friends, and neighbors doing awesome things in our communities, pouring into our lives, and making themselves unforgettable and irreplaceable.

I have been blessed by dear friendships, and tears come to my eyes as I think about how each woman’s act of love in friendship were needed and welcomed - be it through a note of encouragement, fun nights out, silly texted emojis, or time over coffee. For those who read this and know my testimony, I've worn out the local streets while running or walking and praying with some of my closest friends.

This month is the perfect time to patronize businesses owned by women in our communities. They are movers and shakers, builders and makers. They are both seen and unseen. Their silent service blesses those who are under their care. Their attention to detail shows us something about beauty that can’t be seen or understood any other way.

The truth is, connecting with and championing the best of the best when it comes to Boerne's women is one of my favorite parts of this role as publisher.

So, let me encourage you to take some extra time this month to love on the ladies both near and far who deserve recognition.  I promise it'll brighten someone’s day and remind them how much they are loved. Mom, I love you!

Ci

Vediamo,

TARA BOVÉ, PUBLISHER @BOERNELIFESTYLE

May 2023

PUBLISHER

Tara Bové | tara.bove@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Connie Clark | connie.clark@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Brianna Perez | brianna.perez@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Nadine Aguado | nadine.aguado@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Connie McFall Clark, Jennifer Edwards, Caroline Heiberg, Aubrey Matson, Michael Oakes, Paulina Pearson, Kimberly Verbeke

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Sarah Brooke Lyons, Dayna De Hoyos, Paula VM Photography

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

Proverbs 3:5-6

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @BoerneLifestyle

1: 2023 District Teacher of the Year at the Boerne Education Foundation Rock on Fundraiser 2: Hill Country Daily Bread Ministries welcomes Luminous Church to the HCDBM family 3: Hill Country Women in Business 2022 Woman of the Year nominees 4: The Greater Boerne Chamber celebrates Pearl Antler’s move to Main Street 5: Boerne - Samuel V. Champion High School Theatre wins the One Act Play Bi-District Championship

business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Your Marketing Department is 20 Years Old!

When it comes to Boerne’s marketing and storytelling, Penguin Suits continues to offer the best-of-the-best for the Texas Hill Country. The official start began 20 years ago on April 1, 2003, a quirky decision by Head Storyteller/ Owner, Debi Rose Burrows. Debi furthered her path of excellence as the agency created great, award-winning marketing and advertising. She specializes in providing results-oriented solutions that are creative and collaborative. The Chamber celebrated Penguin Suits with a special ribbon cutting in April. penguinsuits.com

BISD Teachers of the Year

Boerne ISD announced that Boerne Middle School North 6th Grade Math Teacher Rachel Bunker was named the 2023 District Teacher of the Year at the Boerne Education Foundation Rock on Fundraiser. Mrs. Bunker received a $10,000 check from Vic Vaughan Toyota of Boerne, as well as a $1,500 stipend from BISD. The runner-up for District Teacher of the Year was Boerne Middle School South 6th grade Social Studies Teacher Brook Taylor, who received a $1,500 stipend from BISD. boerneisd.net

Boerne Fair Oaks Chapter of National Charity League

NCL, a national, non-profit philanthropic organization of mothers and daughters serving together, awarded the Boerne Fair Oaks chapter its charter in 2021 after its founding in 2019. Since that time, they have volunteered more than 6,500 hours with 20 local philanthropies while also participating in cultural events that foster community connections and establishing leadership skills for 7th to 12th grade young ladies to become the capable, confident leaders of tomorrow who always carry with them a heart for service.  nationalcharityleague.org/ chapter/boernefairoaks

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Boerne

Girls Night Out

Our Picks for Drinks and Apps with Your Gal Pals

ARTICLE BY CONNIE MCFALL CLARK PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAYNA DE HOYOS

We all have such busy, active lives with spouses and children - and many of us have full-time jobs outside the home. It is always nice to have some me time to relax and enjoy some quiet moments. Other times we feel like letting loose and enjoying some social time with other women who share our same lifestyles. Or not. We seem to gravitate toward friends who are likeminded and who we can be ourselves with - without judgment or censure.

And some of us are so lucky to have just that group of friends we can share our highs and lows as well as vent about some absurd situation we find ourselves in. What makes it so nice is to be able to enjoy cocktails and appetizers or a full meal with these great women. We find our outings together filled with fun and laughter, preparing us for what responsibilities await at home.

A group of friends usually have Thursday nights available for girls night out. They have their go-to venues because of the ambiance, the food, the drinks, the wait staff or just the general good vibe of the place.

Peggy’s on the Green

Peggy’s on the Green welcomed us with top-quality service by bartender Sean, preparing a variety of martinis and wine cocktails. The pimento cheese dip and the crab dip were the best, as usual. Those are always a good choice for a full table of women.

Botero Tapas + Wine Bar

Botero Tapas + Wine Bar is a favorite for the tapas plates, including a dish called tortilla, and fabulous sangrias of numerous flavors. Plus the owners are so very nice! The music is spicy and sometimes features live singers.

259 Brantley’s Bistro & Bar

259 Brantley’s Bistro & Bar offers farm fresh appetizers and meals inside the dining room or outside on the patio. There is also seating outside at tables or around a firepit in front of a stage where on weekends area bands perform.

Thirty Eight & Vine Boerne

Thirty Eight & Vine Boerne is a recent addition to the Hill Country Mile. It offers a rotating mix of wine treasures dispensed at the touch of a button. Simple appetizers are available that pair well with any type of wine you choose.

Jessica Raley is part of a group of moms with children in middle-school.

Whether it’s a Thursday night or Wednesday night, finding time for a girls night out can be challenging, but worth the effort. Many of the go-to venues were suggested because of the ambiance, variety of food options, the drinks, the wait staff or just the general good vibe of the place.

TOP: Peggy’s Pimento Cheese Appetizer: Jalapeno, Bacon, Celery, Bread & Butter Pickles

RIGHT: Kimberly Young, Renee Burgess, Stephanie Hankins, Sue Edwards, Jessica Raley, and Angelia Bouslog at Peggy’s on the Green

LEFT: Angelia Bouslog and Kimberly Young at Peggy’s on the Green

North Italia at The Rim in San Antonio

North Italia at The Rim in San Antonio is a favorite of those living in Fair Oaks Ranch.  Some favorite bites include the Tuscan Salad, Arugula and Avocado Salad, Zucca Chips, and Chefs Boards.

Fair Oaks Ranch Country Club

For those in the group that want to stay close at home, the Fair Oaks Ranch Country Club has a great patio area and you can take the kids if you can’t find a sitter. A full menu is available on the patio and craft cocktails are a must!

TOP: Ginger Blossom Margarita and Sfumato at North Italia at The Rim in San Antonio

BOTTOM: Peggy’s on the Green

ARTICLE BY PAULINE PEARSON

Dance Fairies Organization Inspires Many

BY HELPING HUNDREDS OF DANCERS AROUND THE WORLD

Dancing is a unique art form that can be expressed, shared, loved, and celebrated by many people across the world. It can hold a special place in individuals’ hearts, whether it is expressed competitively or recreationally. From hip-hop to ballet, tap to jazz, dancing brings us all together one way or another, especially during performances. The sparkling rhinestone dresses to the flowing lyrical skirts can be seen from the back row of a theatre, which is why utilizing these costumes is essential to making a dancer feel magical in what they do.

Dance is a widely known women-dominated sport; the continuous spread of this special activity is important to its growth. This is where Dance Fairies comes in, a nonprofit organization founded in June of 2018 by four young women in the Boerne area with a passion for dance. Founder and creator Michelle Koehler is accompanied by co-creators Caley Burgess, and Sydney Scrimpshire, and editor and writer Paulina Pearson who share the same passion for dance.

“Helping others is what truly matters to us, and we endeavor to do more, not only for the children of our community but also for children around the world, especially those in Ukraine today.”

—Michelle Koehle

Dance Fairies strives to give everyone that sprinkle of magic when dancing on stage by assisting in the donations of hundreds of gently used dance costumes. From all ages, sizes and genres, Dance Fairies seeks any type of dance donations that will help another studio when it is their time to shine in performance.

While Dance Fairies frequently works with the San Antonio metroplex area dance studios, it has also extended internationally, to countries such as Nigeria, Ukraine, Ghana, Uganda and Poland thanks to our international coordinator who works countless hours, Mariya Napper. In the past five years, we were able to collect and redistribute over 22,000 costumes and a multitude of dance shoes and attire; we have been able to give to over 4,000 children in various countries around the world.

This globalization happened due to the ambassador program which started a couple of years ago. With the help of social media technologies, Dance Fairies acquired like-minded teenagers and women in countries like Canada, the UK, Singapore and Australia. The link with more information on our ambassador program and how to join can be found on our website. We currently have 58 ambassadors.

It doesn’t stop there; Dance Fairies is always looking for assistance. Every donation is greatly appreciated and would allow us in getting these costumes to anxiously awaiting dancers. Ways to give monetary donations are through our Venmo, @dance_fairies, Paypal, contact@dancefairies. org , or our Go Fund Me.

Dance Fairies Organization unifies women in a unique way by bringing together those who share a love for dance. It has grown exceptionally in the last five years and will continue to do so in the future. Board members include Larysa Koehler, Darcy Scrimpshire and Renee Burgess.

the

Boots on the Rail Ranch is a rare gem, situated just outside of Boerne, Texas and a short drive from San Antonio. Care and thought has gone into virtually every detail of this stunning 118-acre property. It features two immaculately designed custom homes and an array of stunning amenities that any ranch enthusiast would love to call their own.

An Angel Among Us

AND AN AMBASSADOR FOR CHILDHELP

ARTICLE BY MICHAEL OAKES

PHOTOGRAPHY

BY

SARAH BROOKE LYONS

Cheryl Ladd sits in the library of her Boerne home, surrounded by books and movie scripts. But she’d rather talk about helping kids than about her long career in Hollywood. Ladd learned early on that she could use her influence to help others, and this intersection of celebrity and child advocacy has defined her life for decades.

Cheryl Ladd grew up as Cheryl Jean Stoppelmoor in Huron, South Dakota, where her father worked as an engineer on the Chicago Northwestern Railroad. “It was the perfect place to grow up,” she says. “It was all safe, good schools and great teachers, lots of friends.”

From early on, Ladd’s interests were clear: “Singing, acting, dancing. Everything about me was performing.” While in high school, Ladd traveled and sang with a local band, playing popular songs in clubs and bars she wasn’t legally allowed to be in. Ladd was “discovered” while singing in Wyoming, which led to an invitation to California and her first Hollywood job: a singing role as Melody Valentine in the animated series “Josie and the Pussycats.” Parts on TV shows like Happy Days and The Partridge Family followed.

Cheryl Ladd

A Big Break

“I’d worked for Aaron Spelling several times,” Ladd recalled. “He reached out to me when Farrah Fawcett was leaving Charlie’s Angels and asked me to join the show.” Ladd initially said no. “I hadn’t seen Charlie’s Angels, and I wanted to be a ‘serious actor.’ I took myself very seriously,” she said, laughing. But Spelling was persistent. After an extensive search, he came back to Ladd to discuss the role of Kris Munroe. “That was Aaron’s genius, making me Farrah’s little sister. I wouldn’t be replacing Farrah. I would already be in the family.” Ladd suggested playing Kris as a rookie and bringing in some humor. “I could see it working,” she said. So she took the role in Charlie’s Angels’ second season and stayed for four years. “That was the rocket ship,” she remembers.

But fame, Ladd learned, wasn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Ladd’s daughter Jordan was two-yearsold when she started Charlie’s Angels. “That was tough, to spend all that time away from my daughter. You know, it’s funny, you get this big part, all your hard work is paying off, and then you’re not spending time with your daughter. I was really torn, constantly.” It was also hard on her marriage with her first husband, David Ladd. “We just didn’t make it. It was too big a change, too fast, too much. I had to be Cheryl Ladd all the time. Very few moments of my life then were Cheryl Jean Stoppelmoor.”

Ladd was “discovered” while singing in Wyoming, which led to an invitation to California and her first Hollywood job: a singing role as Melody Valentine in the animated series “Josie and the Pussycats.”

Finding Purpose in Fame

Reflecting on her journey, Ladd notes: “Sometimes things happen and you ask, ‘Why is this happening?’ And then eventually you figure out that God wanted you to turn in this direction or that direction. And sometimes he has to give you a little push.” One divine push led to a lifelong passion and a mission. “I’m reading the newspaper one morning,” Ladd remembers. “Jordan is playing on the floor, and I see this headline: Father kills child. It just struck me, and I couldn’t sleep. It kept coming into my mind. My sister and brothers and I were so loved by our parents. I just couldn’t imagine anyone hurting a child. I did some research and learned that child abuse was an epidemic in our country. And I just couldn’t bear it.”

Charlie’s Angels was a hit, and ABC wanted to do a “movie of the week” starring Cheryl Ladd. And she was ready with a pitch. “I told the executives, ‘I want to do a movie about child abuse and I want to play the abuser.’ You could hear crickets!” “’I know, it’s a tough subject,’ I told them, ‘but it needs to be brought out in the open.’” Though still a young actor, Ladd’s celebrity gave her leverage, and she fought for the show. “Maybe that’s why I got to be a Charlie’s Angel,” she mused. “Because we got to do this movie.” The movie, “When She Was Bad”, gave Ladd a platform. While talking about the need to raise awareness of child abuse on the Dinah Shore show, she asked for anyone working to fight child abuse to contact her.

A phone call came in before she even walked off the stage. It was Sara O’Meara and Yvonne

“Having celebrity and success, I thought that was going to make my life. I see now that God had a different plan. I’m so honored that I get to use my celebrity to raise awareness and help others. That’s what is really important.”

Cheryl Ladd on Dancing With The Stars

Fedderson, former actors who gave up their acting careers to found Childhelp, a non-profit organization dedicated to the prevention and treatment of child abuse. That was 44 years ago, and Ladd has been an ambassador for Childhelp ever since. In that time, she has seen the horrible impacts of child abuse as well as great transformation and healing that can happen when kids receive genuine care and love. “I’ve seen miracles happen,” Ladd says.

Ladd has stayed busy acting on television, in feature films and recording music. Her recording career led her to meet Brian Russell, recording artist, producer, novelist and her husband of 42 years. This long and diverse career has helped Ladd maintain her platform and her influence. Ladd’s advocacy, and that of others like Reba McEntire, has helped grow Childhelp into one of

the largest child abuse prevention and treatment organizations in the United States. “God wanted me to be part of it. I have been for a long time, and I will be for as long as I can do it. Just like Sara and Yvonne, who are still going strong to protect children. They’re my heroes.”

Ladd looks back gratefully on her journey. “Having celebrity and success, I thought that was going to make my life. I see now that God had a different plan. I’m so honored that I get to use my celebrity to raise awareness and help others. That’s what is really important.”

And what does Cheryl Ladd see looking back on her life and career? “God had it all worked out from the beginning.”

From design tailored to our clients’ style sensibilities and spacial requirements to exclusive shopping experience in our Fair Oaks Ranch showroom. We offer in-home or in-store consultation by appointment, high end furniture and decor, as well as full scale design for new construction and remodeling.

Fashion Forward

TO FIT SPRINGTIME TEXAS WEATHER

ARTICLE BY CONNIE CLARK AND AUBREY MATSON

PHOTOGRAPHY BY J.FORKS DESIGNS BY PAULA VM PHOTOGRAPHY

It is that time of year in Texas when the weather changes constantly from warmer days and cooler nights to hot days and warm nights. A fashion must is to layer during the spring months. Adding a sweater or scarf to an outfit makes that transition from warm to cool. Even short light-weight jackets are really popular for layering. We've seen long sweaters over casual full-length dresses for nights out.

| J.FORKS DESIGNS

Embroidery is very popular and you'll find gorgeous tops and dresses with elaborate embroidery along the sleeves, hems and down the middle of garments. We've seen some oversized blouses that enhance the amount of embroidery to make a extraordinary statement piece. The colors of the threads are numerous and mix well with either pants or skirts.

Spring has also brought small-patterned summer florals and long flowy skirts. Cropped tops with jeans, shorts, highwaisted pants or skirts are very popular. And pleated skirts are back in fashion. Flutter sleeves are so pretty and seem to dress up even a pair of jeans.

| JOLI BOUTIQUE

We can't forget those bright bold colors for summer in blue, pink, and green. And what about  graphic t-shirts? Add a jacket over that to make it a little fancier. I don't think denim jackets will ever go out of style in Texas. And don't be afraid to try something new, whatever your age, style or size.

Zelah Bucket Bag made from upcycled leather & hides $79.95

Camden Leather Bag, made from upcycled leather & hides $89.95

Zelah Bucket Bag, made from upcycled leather & hides $79.95

BUY YOURSELF FLOWERS

How to DIY an Arrangement

Thank you to Mary Pat Williams from The Flower Shop for providing instructions for creating beautiful arrangements.

// Supplies:

• Container

• Plant food

• Sprigs of greenery

• Variety of stemmed flowers

• Clippers, scissors or knife

// Step One

Choosing a container is the first step in making a beautiful flower arrangement. Once you find one you love, fill it two-thirds full with water. Next, add plant food to keep the flowers fresher longer. Picking your individual stems from the amazing selection at The Flower Shop can prove challenging because of the wide array of colors and varieties, but choosing groups in odd numbers is recommended. You may choose classic favorites, discover something new or choose flowers to fit a particular theme or color scheme for an event. We chose Hydrangea, Roses, and Oriental Lilies for this arrangement

// Step Two

ARTICLE BY JENNIFER EDWARDS PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAYNA DE HOYOS

Once you have selected beautiful stems and greenery, measure them in comparison to the container. The greenery’s purpose is to help support the flowers but

all of the stems should be cut to one and two-thirds of the height of the container. For example, if your container is nine inches tall, your flowers should be cut to fifteen inches.

// Step Three

Trim the flowers to the appropriate length, using either clippers, scissors, or a knife. It’s very important to always cut the stems on an angle as this optimizes their ability to stay hydrated  longer. After trimming to the appropriate length, take most of the leaves off each stem, leaving only a few near the top.

// Step Four

Insert the greenery first, placing a few around the edge of the container, followed by a couple in the middle.

Next, place the largest flowers first, followed by the smaller varieties, using the greenery for support to build various heights.

// Step Five

Lastly, add a filler flower such as Seeded Eucalyptus. Analyze the arrangement by viewing it from every side to ensure it looks beautiful from every angle. Place in a desired location and enjoy the benefits of your work for days to come!

You can return to The Flower Shop with your container anytime you need fresh stems to create another beautiful arrangement. They also offer various gift items handcrafted by local artists.  flowershopboernetexas.com

TRADITIONAL NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE IN BOERNE

I wanted to take. Addressing symptoms is not the answer ... addressing the root cause is.

FULFILLING A LIFELONG PASSION AND FINDING MY PURPOSE IN HELPING OTHERS

ARTICLE BY KIMBERLY VERBEKE PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAULA VM PHOTOGRAPHY

I grew up in a wonderful, loving home with my parents and three older brothers. I had an amazing childhood and my momma deserves all the credit for keeping us healthy and happy. I’m confident that I pursued naturopathic medicine because she was so passionate about health and nutrition. While other kids were taken to medical doctors, my mom was taking us to naturopaths, chiropractors, and iridologists. She believed, and still believes, that there is always a root cause and when that is addressed, the body can heal. And I couldn’t agree more!

When I was 35 I had some health issues that a doctor told me to “just accept as a part of getting older”. I realized if I wanted to heal and feel truly healthy again, I would have to find the answers for myself. I decided to pursue becoming a Traditional Naturopathic Physician. I wanted to be a medical doctor when I was in my teens and twenties but after administering medication in a nursing home/rehab facility for a few years I knew allopathic medicine wasn’t the approach

I’ve been so fortunate to learn from some of the very best Functional Medicine Practitioners including Dr. Shallenberger, Dr. Levy, Dr. LaValle and more. Continuing to study and learn has helped me continue to evolve in what I do and how I care for people. I have even had the privilege of spending time in Dr. Shallenberger’s office, shadowing him! All of this has allowed me to see some incredible successes clinically. I love being able to work with people one-on-one as well as speaking at events, but success for me is knowing the lives that I’ve had the opportunity to impact. My clients at Avita Wellness and Aesthetics mean everything to me. I’ve developed some very special friendships with many of them and it has been so fulfilling to see them thrive again.

I’ve seen people heal from addiction, Lyme’s disease, mold and environmental toxicity. I’ve watched as people regained their vitality and energy. People with fractures from osteoporosis mend and diabetics correct their blood sugar and insulin levels when they have the necessary tools their bodies need. We always focus on aging well … since aging is something we’re all doing every day!

A few of my favorite success stories: watching a busy entrepreneur recover from an eating disorder and chronic sickness. Seeing a grandma in her 80s heal from painful bone fractures that medications just weren’t helping to resolve

and having a mom with young children that has been suffering from strange symptoms since her teens, finally get answers and seeing her body heal from Lyme’s disease.

Often I work with people for a six- to twelvemonth period to help them regain their health.  We start with labs that include 121 markers and add additional testing if indicated. Once the testing is complete I create a comprehensive plan that can include anything from IV therapy, peptides and  supplements to dietary changes, exercise recommendations and monthly InBody weighins to look at body composition. We also offer all of the above a la carte.

I love what I do. I sincerely believe that this is my calling and what God put me on the earth to do. Avita feels like a community, rather than a cold, sterile office. I’m very lucky to have my daughter, Sara, working with me as a full time IV technician. She has developed many close relationships with our patients as well. We strive to make Avita feel like a safe haven full of encouraging teammates, positive ambience, and most important, a place filled with hope that if the root cause is identified, anyone can heal.

avitabydrv.com

MOTHER DAUGHTER TRIPS

ARTICLE BY CAROLINE HEIBERG

A TIME TO CELEBRATE A SPECIAL EVENT OR JUST SHARE TIME TOGETHER

Whatever season of life you are celebrating, the key element of an exceptional mother daughter trip is setting aside life’s distractions in order to spend time together. We talked to a few mother daughter duos about their trips to help you get some ideas of your own.

Tamara booked an Airbnb for herself and her six-yearold daughter, Jilli, for two nights in Fredericksburg. They didn’t set out with a schedule or itinerary, only the expectation of a good time. Even though Fredericksburg is a quick drive from Boerne, booking a weekend away let them set aside the thought of chores or homework and give each other undivided attention. The highlight of their trip was ordering in pasta, playing games and talking, the quintessential ladies night in.

On the first day of their weekend, the pair invited Jilli’s good friend and her mother. In town, they shopped, had lunch and explored Main Street. They visited the Mercantile twice - a store full of trinkets, crafts and games, engaging for children as well as adults. Later, they lounged in the hot tub, ordered food, played games and stayed up late, the girls in their matching pajamas. The friends left in the afternoon and Jilli and Tamara spent the rest of the weekend on their own. When planning a trip of your own, remember that Fredericksburg’s shopping, restaurants and wineries can’t be beat.

Tamara and Jilli Strait

Dr. Jackson gave the reins to her daughter in planning a trip for her sixteenth birthday. She chose the California coast, spotlighting San Francisco, Carmelby-the-Sea and Big Sur in one long weekend. The duo took a direct flight into San Francisco before driving south on the famous Pacific Coast Highway. They managed to fit in hiking at Big Sur, sightseeing in Carmel and an afternoon massage at the spa. For an unforgettable birthday dinner, L’auberge Carmel was a fine dining experience that checked all the boxes. The L’Auberge boasts a celebration of seasonality and creativity throughout eight courses. Every course was a conversation piece, mixing interesting flavors and unique presentations, and above all, was an experience neither will ever forget. On a bucket list trip, Dr. Jackson and her daughter went to the Maldives. Traveling to the unique region in South Asia required multiple flights, culminating in a seaplane ride that delivered them to an island resort. They stayed in water villas, a style of bungalow that hovers over the water, where snorkeling and swimming are available immediately outside the front door. On a night snorkeling swim, accompanied by marine biologists, they viewed eels and octopi. People travel for different reasons: food, experience, learning the culture, but few things can match the experience of viewing a nocturnal creature like an octopus in its natural habitat.

Garner State Park, nestled on an ideal portion of the Frio River, is centered around river tourism. Spring is a tranquil visit, before the weather gets too hot or the crowds get too noisy. The trails still have peace and quiet left over from winter when the water in the river is too cold to swim. I took my mom Nancy on a day trip to the park in early March ... a day trip through Utopia from Boerne. The drive is winding and picturesque, a source of inspiration for artists throughout the region. With her retirement on the horizon, serene settings and meditative exercise will soon be taking up more of her time than chatting with coworkers.

Kate and Amy Jackson

Garner has a wide range of hiking trails that welcome all skill levels. Caves can be seen on two different trails, while those opting for a challenge can aim for a view on one of the summits. My personal favorite trail hugs the bank of the Frio. When the water is still, it is crystal clear and fish are clearly visible. Pack a lunch and have a picnic by the river, bring good shoes and don’t forget to make reservations ahead of time. Download maps in advance because cell phone service can be unreliable. If the park is full, nearby lodges offer similar river activities; tubing, canoeing, paddleboarding, hiking, miniature golf, camping, and fishing.

Planning a trip can seem like a monumental task when considering coordinating work and family schedules. Opting for a staycation is always a reliable option. Jennifer and her young daughter, Emily have an annual tradition of spending the weekend together when the guys are away.

Ideal mother daughter days can be found close to home by creating memories that make a special bond. Thrift shopping, having their nails done, baking and going out to eat at Emily's favorite places are good times for Emily and Jennifer. Sometimes a trip to the coast is an option. There are countless local experiences that create fun and unique moments. Take a class at one of the venues in Boerne. Eat somewhere new! Shop outdoor markets. Stay at a local Airbnb. Get away from distractions of home, chores, and work. Pick somewhere with a pool or hot tub and relax without having to travel!

Motherly travel tips: Keep it simple and close by for those new to travel. Get to know what you enjoy doing together. When you travel, there are always hiccups. Experiencing minor life challenges shows your daughter how you handle life situations.

Jennifer and Emily Edwards

“Traveling forces you to troubleshoot together and offers the opportunity  to find the fun and lightheartedness when the course takes unexpected turns.”

Make an Impact for Mom

Memorable ways to celebrate the mother figure in your life

The moms and the mother figures in our lives mean everything to us. They deserve the best every day, of course. But at least one day out of the year, we get to shower them with the same love and thoughtfulness they give to us so selflessly.

This year, we hope you’ll consider some memorable ways to make lasting memories with the mom or mother figure in your life. If you haven’t already planned something special, take a look at our list of ideas and circle your favorites. If you have kids, let them join in the fun too!

Whether you decide to spend a day at home or enjoy a day on the town, these innovative celebration ideas will include fun for the whole family and make Mom feel loved. Whatever activity or surprise you land on to show your mom, wife, sister or maternal figure your appreciation for all they do, the most important thing is that you all get to spend some quality time together.

Take a Flower Arranging Class Mother’s Day arrives just as spring is in full bloom. Take advantage of the season by going to a flower arranging class with mom.

Play a Family Board Game

If Mom likes strategizing, challenge her to a friendly board game competition. (And, no, you don’t have to let her win just because it’s Mother’s Day.)

Pick Your Own Fruit

This activity is especially fun if you have a lot of kids who want to get in on the action. Then, when you all get home, you can whip up a treat for Mom with your selections. (Maybe give her a strawberry in a Champagne glass while she waits.)

Book Her a Weekend Away

There’s no day like Mother’s Day to be impulsive! Book a weekend trip for the two of you at a cute B&B in a city Mom has always wanted to visit.

Complete a Jigsaw Puzzle

Find a puzzle with an image you know your mom will love (or make a custom one using a photo of the two of you) and put it together over wine and snacks. You’ll be amazed at how much chatting you can get done while puzzling.

Get Theater Tickets

Go to a play or a musical — lots of towns even host outdoor theater events.

Invite Her To High Tea

Whether you make the brews and treats yourself or head out to an official tea house, Mom will love sipping her beverage out of fancy china and snacking on tea sandwiches.

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MAY

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

MAY 6TH

Texas Mini MilkersDairy Goat Show

KENDALL COUNTY

FAIRGROUNDS LIVESTOCK BARN

Come learn about dairy goats at the Texas Two-Step Dairy Goat Show! Watch as exhibitors and their goats strut their stuff in this MDGA and ADGA show! From 8am until 5pm. TexasMiniMilkers.org

MAY 6TH

Boerne Lemonade Day

DOWNTOWN BOERNE AND VARIOUS NEIGHBORHOODS

Enjoy a glass of tasty lemonade while you stroll the Hill Country Mile. Support these young entrepreneurs from 11am to 2pm. boerne. lemonadeday.org

MAY 6TH

Moondance Concert

CIBOLO CENTER FOR CONSERVATION

Moondance is a longstanding, beloved tradition at the Cibolo. Enjoy live music and dancing from 7 until 9pm. cibolo.org

MAY 6TH

A Day at the Farm and Farmers Market

HERFF FARM

Vendors will be set up at Herff Farm to supply you with some of your local favorites. Check their calendar for special events and programs each week. Open from 9am to 1pm every Saturday in the month. cibolo.org

MAY 6TH

Boerne Garden Club Plant Sale

MAIN PLAZA PARK

The Boerne Garden Club will host their annual plant sale on Saturday, May 6th, at the Gazebo on Main Street from 9am to 2pm. Plants can be had for a donation. All proceeds go to local scholarships and projects. facebook.com/BoerneGardnenClub

MAY 12TH

Boerne Art Waddle

DOWNTOWN BOERNE

The 11th Annual Boerne Art Waddle is held May 12th and 13th 2023, along Cibolo Creek and River Road in downtown Boerne. hccarts.org/art-waddle/

MAY 12TH

Boerne Handmade Market

THE CANA BALLROOM

A two-day market event featuring 75+ handmade-only vendors. Opens on Friday at 10am and closes at 4pm on Saturday. boernehandmademarket.com

MAY 13TH

Boerne Market Days

MAIN PLAZA PARK

Spend a day browsing the market and visiting the many downtown boutiques, galleries, and restaurants for a unique hill country experience. There are a variety of bargains to be found such as jewelry, plants, art, handcrafts, collectibles, antiques, and more. Opens Saturday at 10am and closes Sunday at 4pm. boernemarketdays.com

CONTINUED >

Wellness

MAY 18TH

Men's Night at Free Roam Brewery

FREE ROAM BREWING COMPANY

From 6 until 8pm the brewery is inviting men out to the beer garden once a month for some brews and inspirational speeches from a variety of guest speakers. freeroambrewing.com

MAY 19TH

Movie In The Park : PARTY TIME!

MAIN PLAZA PARK

Boerne Parks and Recreation hosts

Movies in the Park during the spring and summer months. These free, family friendly screenings are a great time for everyone. The fun begins at 7pm. linktr.ee/boerneparksandrec

MAY 27TH

Music in the CaveProud to be an American CAVE WITHOUT A NAME Underground concert with some of San Antonio's most talented singers. 7:30 until 9:30pm  cavewithoutaname.com

MAY 28TH

Boerne Concert Band

MAIN PLAZA PARK

The Boerne Concert Band plays a wide range of music that people of all ages can enjoy. Concert starts at 7pm. boerneconcertband.com

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