Young & Free
CELEBRATING THE BRAVE, THE WILD, & THE WONDERFUL
Set on nearly 10 private acres in Cordillera Ranch, this custom farmhouse pairs timeless design with exceptional equestrian amenities, a resort-style pool, and the privacy of true Hill Country living. 643
Surrounded by mature oaks on 1.7 private acres, this custom home offers expansive living spaces, resort-style outdoor amenities, and the convenience of being just moments from downtown Boerne.
Set on more than four private acres in Coveney Ranch, this exceptional residence offers expansive living spaces, breathtaking Hill Country views, an incredible entertainment-ready basement, and an oversized eight-car garage.
426 CORDILLERA TRACE, BOERNE, TX 78006
Introducing: Nicotinamide Riboside (NR)
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Minimal Side effects with shorter infusion time
O ur Wellness program includes:
• MaviX TM
• Intradiscal Ozone
• EBOO/Ozone Dialysis
• Lahodny/Rowen Modified High Dose Ozone Therapy (10 Pass)
• Platelet R ich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
• NAD+/Intravenous Immune Booster Therapy
• High Dose Vitamin C
• HOCAT T-Hyper thermic, Ozone and Carbonic Acid, Transdermal Technology
• Phototherapy (Red & Infrared)
• Pulse Elec tromagnetic Field Therapy (PEMF)
• Methylene Blue Infusion
• Hormone Replacement Therapy
• Weight Loss Program
• EDTA Chelation Therapy
• Molecular Hydrogen Therapy
• Nitric Oxide
NIGHTLASE ®
Sleep
No Matter the Distance
As we age the flaccidity(looseness) of tissues increases. This is especially important for the entire airway. Upper airways become more restricted due to hard structures and soft tissue hypertrophy (Enlargement). The result is less airflow or volume. This resistance can be detrimental to sleep quality and athletic performance.
NightLase ® utilizes a twin laser system patented by Fotona Lasers. This procedure is a nonablative(no surgical cutting) technique utilizing laser impulses to tighten connective tissue, muscles, and their attachments to hold open the soft palate area and the upper nasal passages. The net result is increased airflow and volume during normal function, sleeping, and athletic performance.
This twin laser system is FDA approved for safety and effectiveness on the tissues treated. The standard procedure takes approximately 45 minutes and needs to be repeated 21 days apart for 3-4 sessions. No anesthetic is needed, and there is no downtime. Protocol maintenance is usually a one-session touch-up every 1-2 years or as needed.
Our latest—and last—addition to our beautiful community is the all-new Vistas neighborhood. Featuring stunning architectural design, spacious luxury apartment homes, and incredible amenities like covered parking, a massive courtyard and much more, The Vistas will be a sight to behold. This new neighborhood represents the very best of elevated living at Menger Springs.
• Spacious homes up to 2,450 sq. ft.
• Large outdoor courtyard
• Above-ground parking garage
• Community clubhouse
Blessing Grapes of the
Blessing the grapes on this day signifies the transformation and transfiguration of all creation.
This brief, outdoor service brings an ancient Antiochian Orthodox harvest tradition right into the heart of the vineyards, offering prayers of gratitude for the season’s bounty. It’s a wonderful, family-friendly way to celebrate the local harvest before staying to enjoy the winery. If you love the beauty of this special blessing, we invite you to experience the full depth of our ancient faith by visiting us at our website.
SATURDAY AUGUST 22, 2026
WHATLEY WINES
4076 N US Hwy 87 Fredericksburg, TX 78624
A SPECIAL BLESSING
RSVPs WELCOME
Please reach out to St. Thomas to purchase tickets or donate to our mission
In partnership with...
Followed by a silent auction, refreshments, and fellowship for more information, visit stthomasorthodoxchurch.org or email stthomasfbgtx@gmail.com
The Chaos Worth Living With
I saw a meme once that said something like: Plants are the new pets. Pets are the new kids. And kids are the new exotic pets: they’re very expensive, and you need to be a little crazy to have them.
As a parent of two toddlers (including a foster child—hello, instant twins!), I feel that deeply. Some days, it’s dealing with unplanned yard repairs because your dog dug through the neighbor’s flowers. Other days, it’s the sheer chaos of managing two tiny humans who melt down over a toy they just discarded with prejudice.
This “Kids & Pets” issue reminds me why we choose to live inside such an unhinged zoo. On the one hand, our children and furry friends reflect who we are. We dress them in clothes we think are cute, we offer them our favorite foods, and hope they fall in love with the same music we did. At the same time, they’re also completely distinct, individual creatures that we get to know and watch grow. It still fills me with awe every time my daughter does something new, tells me how she feels, or shows me something she’s excited about. Getting to be so up close and personal with the way life grows and changes reminds me that—in the long run and the right now—the chaos is worth living with.
We see that in several of the stories in this issue. Sometimes, it’s in big ways, like how kids fighting cancer show strength, resilience, and determination that challenge and inspire (“Defining Their Future,” p. 72). At other times, a team of pre-teens makes a magical baseball run and writes a legend that echoes today (“On Fields of Dreams,” p. 34). We’re also checking out the looks that will have your young ladies excited to go back to school (“To School In Style,” p. 90). And star photographer Paula VM captures adorable portraits of your little ones that will make every heart melt (“The Look of Love,” p. 102).
At the end of the day (when they finally go to bed!), they may cost us sleep, sanity, and a not insignificant chunk of our savings, but we wouldn’t trade the wild ride for anything.
Holding on for dear life and love,
DANIEL GERTSON, EDITOR @BOERNELIFESTYLE
August 2026
PUBLISHER
Tara Bové | tara.bove@citylifestyle.com
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Kevin Bové | kevin.bove@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Daniel Gertson | daniel.gertson@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Jessie Schultz | boerne@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Kylee Krause
COPY EDITOR
Rocio S. Teniente
INTERN
Emma Miller
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Emma Miller, Timothy Christ, Connor Mullins, Rey Lopez, Caroline Mitchell, Jessi Edison, Daniel Gertson
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Paula VM, Jade Quick, Jessi Edison, David Hernandez
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
3:5-6
The sky’s the limit for Lemonade Day star and budding entrepreneur Olivia Gruner. Photography: Paula VM
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Fishing and having fun is what it’s all about! 2: Volunteers at Joshua Creek Ranch Texas Hill Country Game Fair created an unforgettable weekend. 3: A special thanks to Infinity Memories for the awesome photo booth! 4: One of the participants in the Buckaroo Que wild game cookoff. 5: Enjoying some much needed pets. 6: The lovely ladies Katie Leibold (left) and Kelsey Jackson (right). 7: The Boerne Lifestyle table at the Texas Hill Country Game Fair.
Photography by Emma Miller
8: Das Festival crowd for Father’s Day Weekend! 9: Some of the dogs in attendance. 10: An adorable dachshund t-shirt. 11: The official merchandise table for Das Festival. 12: Delicious variety of foods. 13: All ages welcome at the fun weekend festival. 14: Kicking off the 3rd annual Das Festival!
Photography by Kylee Krause
15: Summer Block Party at Fair Oaks Ranch 2026. 16: Homemade dog treats were a hit. 17: The Fair Oaks Ranch community showed out. 18: Beautiful flowers and succulents thanks to Blume Haus. 19: The kids had a blast! 20: Thank you to Blume Haus for helping organize the Summer Block Party.
Photography by Melissa Ashley Photography
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Frill Seekers Has Grown!
Frill Seekers is excited to share their recent store expansion, including a fully dedicated Jon Hart room and a brand-new baby and kids' products suite. They've expanded our wide assortment of both cash-andcarry and personalizable gifts and accessories for newborns through young children. Frill Seekers custom embroidery makes the perfect gift for showers, birthdays, and holidays. Go check out their bigger place and say "hi!"
gala is on Tuesday, September 15th, at The Cana Ballroom in Boerne. Join them for either a lunch or dinner event and support them finan cially to keep their services free to the community.
Boerne 100
Boerne 100, a nonprofit organization that connects men who make a dif ference in the community, recently selected the San Antonio Coalition for Veterans and families as the recip ient of a $10,000 donation. “We’re proud to support the incredible work they’re doing to serve veterans and families when they need it most. This is what community looks like!” Want
PLEASE JOIN US FOR OUR ANNUAL FUNDRAISING GALA!
PLEASE RSVP BY AUGUST 31
REGISTER ONLINE AT HCPCCGALA.ORG OR SCAN THE QR CODE.
Thank you, Boerne Lifestyle, for your partnership and underwriting support!
TWO YEARS LATER, A LEGENDARY SUMMER OF BOERNE BASEBALL STILL INSPIRES.
On Fields of Dreams
ARTICLE BY TIMOTHY CHRIST
City of Boerne
Boerne Chamber
Now two years later, many of our “Boerne Boys” are still around and loving the game.
There’s something special about a warm summer night in Texas, a particular magic when the air hangs heavy with the scent of cut grass and worn leather, the distant hum of crickets fills the quiet moments, and the staccato ping of a bat echoes through the neighborhood like a crack of lightning. These nights somehow feel timeless, like childhood dreams are being stitched into the fabric of each stained jersey. Two years ago, that kind of magic alighted upon Boerne, following a group of twelve kids whose historic run to the Little League World Series became the stuff of local legend.
The odyssey that began under the heat of the Hill Country sun turned into a journey that eventually stretched across the map. Beginning with a dominant 17-0 showing against Ingram, the team set a tone of ferocity that would carry them through the gauntlet. They dismantled rivals at Sectionals, steamrolled through the State Tournament, and stared down highstakes tension in Waco by knocking off Arkansas, New Mexico, and Louisiana to punch their tickets to Williamsport, Pennsylvania. With every win, the legend grew—a 17-game streak that felt almost cinematic, culminating in the heart-pounding pressure of the US Championship game. Though they fell just shy of the ultimate prize against Florida, the legacy they scuffed into the dirt of those ballfields remains.
Now, two years later, many of our “Boerne Boys” are still around and loving the game. Several came out to the Little League All-Stars tryout night in May to encourage the contenders for the 2026 team. They even pitched to the kids, allowing coaches a chance to see how the hopefuls would fare against 70-mile-perhour fastballs. They also made a showing at Boerne ISD’s baseball camp in June. Eleven of the kids are
entering high school this fall, so they wanted to show Coaches Geoff Curtin (Boerne) and Ben Woodchick (Champion) all their skills. Watch the boys compete in baseball tryouts in January for the 2027 spring season.
When looking back on the 2024 season, the kids told us that some of their favorite memories were meeting players from other states and countries. They thought seeing different cultures in person was very cool. Big lessons learned included the value of working hard, never giving up, and always supporting your team. If you practice and believe in yourself, you can do amazing things!
Let’s check in with some of the players to find out what they’re doing now and see what adventures they have on deck.
JETT MATTHEWS
Jett “The Jett,” who dazzled with his play at shortstop, turning 22 double plays in 2024 while wearing his flashy green cleats, continues to wow with the Lonestar Baseball Club. He had a great season—including a 315-foot home run—and his team competed at the WWBA National Championship this summer. Jett has shot up from 5’5”, 95 pounds over the past two years to 6’, 135 pounds. Jett played basketball and ran track for Voss Middle School, placing third in the district meet for high jump. He enters Boerne High School this fall with a 4.0 GPA as part of the Class of 2030.
KOLE NEWSON
Kole’s family moved to Greensboro, North Carolina, in January 2026 when his dad, Justin Newson (the 2024 team’s General Manager), took a new job. Kole
Big lessons learned included the value of working hard, never giving up, and always supporting your team. “ ”
Kole Newson
Aiden Muñoz
has reached 6’ in height, which he regularly reminds his family. He is playing travel ball for Showcase Baseball Academy and traveling to tournaments across the Southeast in hopes of earning a chance to play college baseball at a D1 school. Oh yeah, he is also playing quarterback for Cuthbertson HS this fall. All of this after undergoing open-heart surgery at 8 years old, proving he’s got no limits!
JULIAN HURST
Julian, who threw 74 miles per hour in the Little League games, is now throwing an incredible 83.
AIDEN MUÑOZ
Aiden has grown a lot, both physically and athletically. He now stands 5’7” and checks in at 150 pounds. Through the growth, he has remained dedicated to baseball, continuing to compete with the Lonestar Baseball Club. Throughout middle school, Aiden played soccer, basketball, and football, demonstrating his athletic versatility, work ethic, and commitment to team competition. Aiden also enjoys playing golf with family and friends, which reflects his appreciation for both competition and recreation. He plans to continue his athletic pursuits at Champion High School, where he
hopes to learn from one of the most respected baseball coaches and continue pursuing excellence both on and off the field.
DOC MOGFORD
Doc has been soaring to new heights, as he recently won the long jump at a local track meet with a distance of 19’ 1.5”.
GAGE STEUBING
Gage Steubing has been off to the races. In ‘24, ESPN dubbed him “Boerne’s fastest kid,” especially when he turned three hits into triples during the World Series run. On the track, he set a record in the 300m hurdles with a time of 41.07 seconds, marking the third-fastest middle school time in the nation.
KALEB CHRIST
As the lone 11-year-old on the Little League team, Kaleb is excited for 8th grade this fall. As a seventh grader at Voss Middle School, he was the quarterback and kicker for the football “A” team, ran cross country, played basketball, ran track, and played tennis. Kaleb also continues to excel on his select baseball teams. He played a pivotal role in his team’s recent tournament success against top-ranked opponents, delivering strong performances as both a pitcher and a hitter.
Kaleb has grown as well, adding 4 inches and almost 30 pounds since the ‘24 season.
As Kaleb’s father, I published the book How Boerne Made History and Played on Their Field of Dreams to chronicle this historic accomplishment for our community and to inspire future generations of baseball kids and families. As we reflect on that historic summer, we remember all the lessons learned and how love, plus focus, plus discipline can equal extraordinary results.
Find the book locally at The Boerne Bookshop (theboernebookshop.com ) and D-Bat Boerne (dbatboerne.com ).
Next-Level Longevity & Regenerative Therapies—Now Available
Advanced laser and light-based therapies designed to optimize your health at the cellular level. Introducing Advanced Cellular Therapy at Avita Wellness & Aesthetics. Typically found in advanced European medical clinics—now available in Boerne.
WE ARE EXPANDING OUR ADVANCED THERAPY OFFERINGS WITH:
• Weber Medical Laser
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WHAT THESE THERAPIES SUPPORT:
• Circulation & oxygen delivery
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• Cellular optimization
• Neurodegenerative issues
• Chronic disease & cancer
IDEAL FOR INDIVIDUALS WHO:
• Feel fatigued or low energy
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• Want to optimize longevity
• Haven’t found answers elsewhere
Schedule your consultation to learn if these advanced therapies are right for you.
Paula VM Photography
Boerne Studio • Texas Hill Countr y & Beyond
Comes to Life LIVING EDUCATION
How one school creates a unique environment where students thrive through connection, nature, and purposeful learning.
ARTICLE BY CONNOR MULLINS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CONNOR MULLINS & AMBLESIDE SCHOOL OF BOERNE
The daily rhythm at Ambleside School of Boerne now includes the morning chorus of Hill Country birds. Since opening its new campus just off Scenic Loop in January, administrators have embraced the natural setting, integrating it into a landscape that primes students to flourish. “It's a perfect area,” Principal Melinda Boshears says. “To be able to have chapel and assembly in nature and hear the birds chirping is just a beautiful way to start our day together as a community and school.”
Since its first class in 2013, consistent maturation has become a theme for Ambleside. The institution outgrew two spaces before moving into its new property. This month, they’ll add a 9th-grade cohort to the existing pre-kindergarten through 8th-grade class list. By moving out of the St. John Lutheran Church and into its new property, the school can now provide middle school students with their own dedicated space, a music building with a baby grand piano, and a room specifically for art. Now, with 11 acres of space for its students, the school can enhance its nature studies and classes by incorporating new educational elements. “This space is allowing us to grow not only in numbers, but also to go out and explore nature as well,” Boshears says. “Charlotte Mason believed that the children should become friends with creation because it was created by God.”
The Ambleside way is based on the work of Charlotte Mason, a British educator and author of the 19th and 20th centuries.
Her six-volume series on education established a foundation for Ambleside Schools International, which now has a global presence with campuses in the United States, South Africa, Austria, India, Kenya, Mozambique, and Nigeria. “We’re very countercultural, which we say with great respect and pride,” Boshears notes. “We see children as made in the image of God with a vast capacity that goes beyond what we as humans could even think they’re capable of.”
The first Ambleside school was founded in Fredericksburg, Texas, 26 years ago, to foster a new approach to Christian education based on Mason’s philosophy of what she called a “living education.” Ambleside schools avoid using fill-in-the-blank, true-or-false, or multiple-choice text questions and instead emphasize open-ended prompts for their exams. There are also no screens, but idea-rich books fuel discussion-centered learning for every student.
The philosophy is broad and can include students with almost any learning need. Boshears emphasizes that every child at Ambleside is supported through a partnership between parents and the school, with a shared pursuit of the child’s success. “We believe children with all different natural abilities and weaknesses belong in school,” she says. “We teach to the whole child and not just academics.”
The curriculum at Ambleside includes a wide range of subjects with a focus on disciplinary and inspirational topics to engage different parts of each student’s brain. A key feature of Mason’s philosophy is to have shorter lessons on these subjects (no longer than an hour at the highest grades) to reduce fatigue among children in her classrooms. Today, Ambleside students study more than 15 subjects per week to diversify their learning rather than focusing on a single subject for an extended period.
It’s an approach Megan May, office manager at Ambleside, really appreciates. She not only works for the school but also has a daughter who has attended for the past five years. “One of the great parts about Ambleside is the way we teach children to love learning and care about what they’re learning,” May says. “There are so many subjects that they get to study throughout the day, but it's not overburdening. Each subject is 20 or 30 minutes, so my daughter can really use that short period of time to focus all of her attention on that and not get fatigued.” This commitment to individualized attention and progress is personal for Boshears, too, who came to Boerne to lead the school in 2016 after helping found
Ambleside School of Boerne is a private Christian institution serving students from Pre-K through 9th grade. Grounded in the philosophy of Charlotte Mason, the school offers a living education designed to nurture the whole child. Teachers prioritize relational learning and rigorous academic habits over simple testing. Students participate in diverse activities, such as singing, exploring nature, and serving their community. amblesideboerne.com | 830-388-8865 | 49 Scenic Loop Rd.
“We do our best to meet children where they are and bring them along with their growth mindset because we’re in this together.”
—Melinda Boshears
an Ambleside school in San Angelo in the early 2000s.
By adding a 9th-grade cohort this fall, the school will expand its curriculum to include high school for the first time. Even with the desire for scaling up, the school is dedicated to maintaining Charlotte Mason’s holistic approach to education, which limits class sizes to no more than 16 per classroom, allowing teachers to sustain the relational culture instilled in the school. “Ambleside is an education for life,” May says. “My daughter and I were sitting here one day, and she started talking to Melinda about how she once talked about head knowledge versus heart knowledge. Those are beautiful moments.”
Looking ahead, Boshears says Ambleside School of Boerne plans to continue fostering development in both the school's physical space and the intellectual, mental, and spiritual well-being of its students. “I love the way we strive to see children the way that Jesus sees them,” Boshears emphasizes. “We do our best to meet children where they are and bring them along with their growth mindset because we’re in this together.”
Smart ER Fast ER EasiER
That’s why Fair Oaks Emergency Room has emergency care services available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Our emergency care team specialize in caring for patients with any acute illnesses or injuries which require immediate medical attention.
On-Site Medical Equipment:
Bloodwork / CT Scan / Digital X-Rays / Strep test / Splints / Ultrasound / Ventilation-Intubation
Respiratory Panel That Identifies 22 Respiratory Pathogens, Etc.
Emergency Services:
Abdominal pain / Broken bones and Sprains / Chest pain / Fever / Headache / IV Fluids & Medications
Lacerations / Respiratory infections / Stroke like symptoms / Urine infections, etc.
ONE RIDE FROM THE HILLS TO THE SHORE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID HERNANDEZ
From the Hill Country to the Gulf Coast, Mission Golf Cars delivers the ultimate all-terrain family luxury.
As the August sun begins its slow dip below the horizon, a familiar ritual unfolds across the Boerne area’s premier neighborhoods. You know it: the heat breaks, the evening breeze kicks in, and families load up for a favorite pastime: the neighborhood cruise. But today’s personal transportation vehicles have evolved far past the golf course. They are the new family carriage, an extension of the home designed for luxury, leisure, and spontaneous adventure. Whether you are navigating the rolling hills of Fair Oaks Ranch or trailering your fleet down to the Gulf Coast for a weekend on the sand, these rides are your ticket to an elevated, open-air lifestyle. And Mission Golf Cars in Boerne has the best rides around.
For kids and pets alike, a ride in a premium golf car is an open-air thrill. There is an undeniable magic to feeling the warm breeze while zipping down to the neighborhood pool or tracking down the local ice cream truck. For the family dog, wide, secure floorboards and premium seating mean the absolute best snout-in-the-wind co-pilot experience.
The true value lies in the effortless utility. These vehicles double as mobile base camps. Generous cargo decks and under-seat storage easily handle sandy beach
towels, oversized coolers, boogie boards, and sports gear. Because they are highly transportable and easy to trailer, families increasingly take their cars on weekend coastal getaways. From washing off sandy paws on the shoreline to chasing a Hill Country sunset, it is the finest utility vehicle for hyperlocal family adventures.
Finding the perfect fit for your family comes down to choosing the right blend of style, innovation, and performance. Mission Golf Cars carries a premier lineup uniquely suited for both neighborhood pavements and coastal sand.
For families who appreciate a classic aesthetic backed by premium build quality, Club Car is the gold standard. Models like the Club Car Onward offer a sophisticated design complete with plush seating and dual wireless phone charging pads. Crucially for beach travelers, these cars feature a rust-proof, aircraft-grade aluminum frame that stands up beautifully to salty coastal air.
If your family rides are powered by a great playlist, E-Z-GO delivers a futuristic, tech-forward experience. Highly customizable models like the Liberty or the RXV Summit XTL can be equipped with lifted suspension packages to easily clear sand ridges. Inside, multi-function touchscreens, Apple CarPlay, and integrated soundbars transform every evening drive into a rolling concert.
For the modern adventurer, Denago EV brings incredible value and rugged styling to the table. The Rover XL and Nomad XL series feature advanced lithium-ion technology to conquer steep hills or sandy inclines with ease. They also boast four forward-facing seats, ensuring that every passenger enjoys a front-row view of the waves or the neighborhood scenery.
A quality personal transportation vehicle does more than bridge the distance between two points. It slows down the pace of daily life, encouraging spontaneous connection and creating lasting memories. Whether your ideal weekend involves exploring the scenic byways of the Hill Country or navigating the shoreline with the surf at your toes, these vehicles redefine how families interact with their surroundings. They turn routine errands into shared outings and transform simple drives into the highlights of the season. To discover the ideal match for your next getaway, visit the showroom at Mission Golf Cars and select the vehicle that will define your family adventures for years to come.
missiongolfcars.com
830-255-5800 | 28451 IH-10 W
THURSDAY EVENINGS AND SUNDAY MORNINGS
Find YOURPEOPLE, and p ience Jesus THROUGH BIBLICAL TEACHING. thr gh MINISTRIES AND GROUPS
THURSDAYS 7:00 PM | SUNDAYS 9:20 & 11:00 AM
27021 I-10 SAN ANTONIO, TX
Trails, Tails, & Family Fun
Pack up the kids and bring the dog along, too. These Texas parks have something for everyone!
ARTICLE BY EMMA MILLER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TEXAS PARKS & WILDLIFE DEPARTMENT
PEDERNALES FALLS STATE PARK
tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/pedernales-falls
Once you stand on the limestone ledges and watch the water cascade down in layers, you’ll understand why Pedernales Falls State Park is at the top of the list of places to visit this summer. The park is located in the middle of the Texas Hill Country near the quaint town of Johnson City. This destination is perfect for hikers, bikers, families, pets, and anyone who loves the outdoors.
In designated swimming areas, kids can wade through the sunwarmed water and explore the natural pools when water levels are safe. To access the swimming area, you must complete a quarter-mile hike; the falls themselves do not allow swimming. Beyond the water, hiking and biking trails range from easy to challenging. The Twin Falls Nature Trail offers many scenic overlooks and is great for families and people looking for a leisurely stroll.
Camping, horseback riding, fishing, and bird watching are other activities offered in the park. Dogs are welcome but should remain leashed throughout. Some important things to note before starting your trip to Pedernales Falls include the entrance fee ($6 per day for those 13 and older) and campsite fees ranging from $10 to $20 per night, depending on the site you choose. Reservations are strongly recommended for campsites and horseback riding, especially on weekends, as this is a popular summer destination. Be sure to check the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website for current water conditions or closures before making the drive!
“With over 40 miles of trails for hiking and biking, camping for families, and attractions for youngsters, it’s a fantastic short summer getaway.”
GARNER STATE PARK
tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/garner
With scenic peaks and the cool of the Frio River, it’s easy to understand why Garner State Park is one of the most popular summer destinations in the state. Located near Concan and Leakey, the park has something unique for every visitor. For trekkers, there are 16 miles of scenic trails, including a hike to the iconic peak of Mount Old Baldy. To keep cool, you can float the Frio, go canoeing, and wade in the shallow, calmer stretches of the river that are perfect for young swimmers. You can even close out the evening with dancing under the stars.
Cabins and screened shelters are available, and the park offers concessions and a visitor center where paddle boats, kayaks, inner tubes, and fans can be rented. Leashed pets are welcome in most areas, but they are not permitted in buildings or in group camp facilities. Entrance fees are $8 for ages 13 and up. Reservations are a must, so check the TPWD website before you go.
GOVERNMENT CANYON STATE NATURAL AREA
tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/government-canyon
A mere 25 miles northwest of downtown San Antonio, you’ll find one of Bexar County’s best attractions, Government Canyon State Natural Area. With over 40 miles of trails for hiking and biking winding through the Hill Country’s limestone terrain, camping for families, and attractions for youngsters, it’s a fantastic place to bring your family for a short summer getaway.
You’ll find 104-million-year-old dinosaur tracks on the Joe Johnston Route. The frontcountry section has two pet-friendly trails, which are also the two easiest. The backcountry area features many more hikes ranging from moderate to challenging, but pets are not permitted. Kids will also enjoy the playscape and Discovery Trail.
Entrance fees are $6 per day for 13 and up, and campsites range from $18 to $40 per night. Remember to pack lots of water before you head out!
DINOSAUR VALLEY STATE PARK
tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/dinosaur-valley
While Dinosaur Valley State Park is the farthest of the parks on our list, the extra miles are well worth the trip. Just an hour’s drive south of Fort Worth in Glen Rose, you can trek through the prehistoric past. Because your family can hunt for 113-million-year-old dinosaur footprints, this is one of the most uniquely kid-friendly state parks in Texas.
As you wade through the clear waters of the Paluxy River, look for the footprints of Sauroposeidon , the official state dinosaur of Texas, believe it or not. The tracks are located in the riverbed, and visibility depends on water levels and weather, so be sure to check the park’s website or social media before making the drive.
Beyond the dinosaur tracks, the park has 20 miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking, plus camping, fishing, swimming, kayaking, geocaching, and even horseback riding. You must bring your own horse to ride around the park and water. Eagle Eye Ranch Carriage Company offers a variety of guided equestrian tours for all ages, with excursions ranging from horse-drawn wagon rides to wrangler-assisted trail rides for children ages 3 to 14. Reservations are required prior to arrival.
The park store stocks souvenirs, camping supplies, fishing gear, and Junior Ranger Explorer Packs for the kids to use throughout the day. Leashed dogs are welcome in most areas of the park, but they are not permitted inside any park buildings. Day use fees are $8 per person for ages 13 and up, and the park gates are open daily until 10 p.m. The park often reaches capacity and is very busy on the weekends, so reservations for all amenities and day-use passes are strongly encouraged. Pack plenty of water, sunscreen, your camera, and your sense of adventure!
LOST MAPLES STATE NATURAL AREA tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/lost-maples
While Lost Maples is best known for its fall attractions, summers in the state natural area are just as magical. Located about two hours northwest of San Antonio in Vanderpool (very close to Garner State Park), this park features steep canyon walls, colorful wildflowers, and the serene Sabinal River, a beautiful escape into the Texas Hill Country.
The entire family can enjoy over 10 miles of hiking trails, with easier routes and cliffside views. Camping, fishing along the river, and bird watching are other popular activities. Lost Maples is home to a wide variety of birds, including the endangered golden-cheeked warbler. The park even loans fishing gear on site, no license required. Leashed pets are welcome throughout the area, but remember to clean up after your furry friends. There is no cell service in the park, but Wi-Fi is available at headquarters. Day-use passes are $6 for ages 13 and up, and the park is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Reservations are strongly encouraged.
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TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
ON MARRIAGE, KIDS, AND THE COMEDY OF REAL LIFE
Trey Kennedy makes a living finding comedy in regular life. Marriage. Toddlers. Yoga pants. The Thursday-night scramble between school dropoffs, soccer practice, and whatever has to be done by morning. Twelve years in, it shows: millions of followers across every platform, three stand-up specials, a sold-out Relatable Tour, and a style of humor fans send each other captioned, “Are you watching me?” He delivers the kind of comedy that travels because everyone’s living some version of it.
Katie, his wife of six years, is a former biomedical engineer who also built a modeling career. She’s now raising their kids and co-hosting Correct Opinions alongside Trey — the show where the two of them swap takes on marriage, parenting, and whatever came up that week.
Trey has been at this longer than people realize. An Edmond, Oklahoma kid who grew up playing basketball described himself as a “shy kid who never thought he’d be an entertainer.” He started making videos while attending Oklahoma State University. After building millions of followers on Vine before the platform shut down, he gave himself six months on Instagram and Facebook to see whether he could rebuild from zero. He did. Stand-up soon followed. His first special, Are You For Real?, streams on YouTube; the second, Grow Up, on Amazon Prime; the third, built around the Relatable Tour, wrapped earlier this year. “I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now,” he says. A slow climb, made one bit at a time.
ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
“I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now.”
Most of what Trey writes lately starts in his own kitchen. Thomas is three and a half, and he is, in his father’s words, “a movie.” He narrates his own life from the moment his eyes open and mispronounces words in ways his parents now repeat to each other because no one else would believe them. His younger sister, Eva, is what Katie calls “the calm one.” With a third now in the mix, the Kennedys are officially outnumbered.
After six years of marriage, Trey and Katie have learned that the partnership runs best when it gets its own time on the calendar. So once a week, they leave the kids with a sitter and go out for coffee. “You need a system,” Katie says. “It’s about taking time to look each other in the eye. Not the kids. Not the cameras. Just each other.”
The same instinct shapes the work. Most of Trey’s trial and error happens onstage or on Instagram, but the first read is always Katie’s. “There’s only been one time ever I’ve had to be like, ‘you’re not doing that,’” she says. The rest of the time, she just laughs first.
FEATURING TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
Trey and Katie talk about marriage, parenting, and the moments that don’t make the Instagram feed.
Watch or listen to the full conversation wherever you get your podcasts.
HAIR & MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE
Partners in Your Pet’s Care
Meet the team at Fair Oaks Ranch Veterinary Clinic who love your pets almost as much as you do.
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY
JADE RYANN PHOTOGRAPHY
Fair Oaks Ranch Veterinary Clinic (FORVC) is led by a team of co-owners who treat their patients like family. Drs. Kelsey Marquez, Kelsey Smith, and Jaci Carriker bring almost 40 years of combined experience to the clinic, and, for each of them, caring for our four-legged family members has been a lifelong passion. One knew it was her calling in the first grade. Another grew up helping her dad at his own clinic. And the third? She discovered her passion while working at a pet shop as a teenager.
While their paths were different, they all share the same heart for patient care, and that is what has led them to launch FORVC. They love working closely with pet owners to find practical, comfortable medical plans that fit every unique family.
We asked the doctors about their journeys, their philosophy on care, and what makes their work so incredibly rewarding.
fairoaksranchvet.com
830-755-8770 | 28615 IH-10 W.
(Responses edited for length and clarity)
“I truly love formulating a plan that meets the owner and their pet where they are.”
Kelsey Marquez
Years of Experience: 13
What inspired you to become a veterinarian?
In the first grade, I told my parents I wanted to be a veterinarian. I made some backup plans along the way in case it didn’t pan out, but thankfully it did! My passion for animals grew into a curiosity for medicine. I can’t pinpoint one single experience, but it felt like one of God’s callings for my life from the beginning.
Describe your approach to care.
I truly love formulating a plan that meets the owner and their pet where they are. Not everyone can run a full diagnostic workup for every ailment. Not every owner can easily give a pill to their dog. My own dog had a major surgery recently, and I found out that I can barely give her a pill myself, as a trained veterinarian! I’ve really discovered that one of my passions in veterinary medicine is helping owners make their own educated decisions about their pet’s care. When there is mutuality in a diagnostic plan, that is a win!
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
The most rewarding aspect of my work is helping pet owners feel confident and at peace with the medical plan we create together for their pet. Veterinary medicine often involves difficult decisions, and when an owner truly understands the options, feels heard, and trusts the path forward, I know I’ve made a meaningful difference. That outcome doesn’t happen every time, but when it does, it is incredibly rewarding.
Kelsey Smith
Years of experience: 10
What inspired you to become a veterinarian?
Veterinary medicine has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. My dad was a veterinarian, and I grew up helping around the clinic. Watching the relationships he built with families and the difference he made in their pets’ lives inspired me to follow the same path. From an early age, I knew I wanted a career that combined science, problem-solving, and the opportunity to help both animals and their owners.
Describe your approach to care.
My approach to care is centered on the individual needs of both the pet and the owner. Every family, lifestyle, and patient is unique, so I believe it is important to take the time to understand each pet’s specific situation and the goals their family has for their care. My goal is to provide thorough education, discuss all available options, and help owners make informed decisions that are right for them and their pets. I want to create a partnership with pet owners built on trust, communication, and compassion.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is being actively involved in the community and having the opportunity to give back to the people and pets who make it such a special place. Veterinary medicine allows me to make a difference beyond the exam room through education, outreach, and supporting the human-animal bond that is so important to families. I enjoy building long-term relationships with pet owners, helping them make informed decisions, and being a trusted resource throughout their pets’ lives. Knowing that our team can positively impact both the health of pets and the well-being of our community is what makes this profession so meaningful to me.
“I enjoy building long-term relationships with pet owners, helping them make informed decisions, and being a trusted resource throughout their pets’ lives.”
“My goal is always to provide compassionate guidance and help clients make informed decisions that support the best possible quality of life for their pets.”
Jaci Carriker
Years of Experience: 14
What inspired you to become a veterinarian?
My first job as a teenager was working in a pet shop, where I quickly realized how much I loved being around animals. At the same time, I was always drawn to science and problem-solving. When it came time to choose a career, veterinary medicine felt like the perfect combination of those passions. I found a profession that allows me to help animals while using critical thinking and medical knowledge to solve complex challenges every day.
Describe your approach to care.
My approach centers on practical, individualized medicine. While there is often an ideal treatment plan from a medical standpoint, every pet and family has unique circumstances. I believe the best care happens when veterinarians and pet owners work together to create a plan that is both medically sound and realistic for that particular pet, family, and situation. My goal is always to provide compassionate guidance and help clients make informed decisions that support the best possible quality of life for their pets.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work? Without question, the most rewarding part of my work is being a member of the Fair Oaks Ranch Veterinary Clinic (FORVC) team. Our staff feels like family, and I am fortunate to work alongside an incredibly dedicated group of people who genuinely care about both our patients and our community. Sharing a common purpose—helping pets and the people who love them—creates a special environment, and being part of that mission every day is something I find deeply meaningful.
– Darren&JuliePatrick
DEFINING Their Future
EXPLORING THE POWERFUL PATHS OF YOUNG SURVIVORS AS THEY BUILD DREAMS FAR BEYOND THEIR DIAGNOSIS.
ARTICLE BY REY LOPEZ PHOTOGRAPHY BY JADE RYANN PHOTOGRAPHY
In January 2025, Tara and Kevin Bové found themselves making a drive no parent ever wants to make. For weeks, their four-year-old daughter Annabella had complained of pain in a specific spot on her arm. At first, doctors suspected ordinary childhood aches and pains. But Tara felt something wasn’t right. After multiple visits, she pushed for blood work.
The next morning, their pediatrician handed them a sheet of numbers and told them to go immediately to a children’s hospital emergency room. “I remember looking in the rearview mirror at Annabella in her car seat,” Kevin says. “And thinking, this is not good.” Two days later, doctors confirmed the diagnosis: B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (B-ALL), the most common form of childhood leukemia.
Today, Annabella is five years old and in the maintenance phase of treatment. She is back in school, making friends, and looking forward to first grade. Her story is still being written, and it is one of thousands that connect families across Texas through the difficult reality of pediatric blood cancer.
Blood Cancer United reports that blood cancers account for 40% of all pediatric cancers. Each diagnosis impacts more than just the patient. It affects entire families and even communities as they move into an altogether new reality. For many survivors, the lessons learned during treatment remain long after the treatments themselves end.
Now at 18, Carter Thompson remembers surprisingly little about his own leukemia treatment. Diagnosed at age five and in treatment until he was nearly nine, he says he remembers people more than procedures. “The people along the way were the ones that really impacted me,” Carter reflects. “I don’t wish that I’d never had cancer, but I think I talk to different kinds of people better now, and I don’t judge anyone for what they look like.”
That approach will come in handy as he heads to Texas A&M University. Meanwhile, Carter spends his time fishing, golfing, wakeboarding, and planning a future that includes owning his own business. Looking back, he believes cancer shaped the way he sees both people and life itself. “Nothing’s promised,” he says. “One day I was at a basketball game, and the next day I was in a hospital bed.”
Like Carter, 15-year-old Ella Navarette wants people to see more than a diagnosis. As a sophomore who loves volleyball, swimming, and spending time with friends, Ella describes herself as outgoing, energetic, and funny. Her mother, Lindsey Navarette, describes her succinctly: “She’s a light. She just loves life.”
Diagnosed at 13 with Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS), Ella approached treatment with a resilience that still amazes her family. One of Lindsey’s strongest memories came when chemotherapy began causing Ella’s long hair to fall out. After volleyball practice one day, it had become so tangled that there was no way to save it. Ella decided to shave her head. The very next weekend, she went to a volleyball tournament. “She just went and rocked her cute little bald head,” Lindsey remembers. “She was beautiful.”
Ella’s clearest memory of treatment matches her optimistic personality. “I remember the good times more than the bad,” she says thoughtfully. She remembers growing closer to her family, building relationships with doctors and nurses, and discovering a deeper appreciation for everyday life. “It taught me how lucky I
am to be alive,” she emphasizes. “Every day, whether it’s good or bad, is still a gift.”
Halo Botha says overcoming Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma revealed a strength she didn’t know she had. “I am most proud of surviving cancer not only physically, but mentally as well,” she says. She recalls nurses reading to her during chemotherapy sessions and points to her family and friends as an invaluable support during her treatment. Halo plans to work in the medical field to help others as others have helped her. “I realized how strong I was when I was able to handle chemotherapy better than many people expected,” she reflects. “Even on difficult days, I was still able to move around, laugh, and stay positive.”
A similar desire to serve others drives Kenzie Nichols after surviving ovarian cancer at a young age. Now 15, Kenzie is part of Champion High School’s athletic training program and a healthcare-focused P-TECH pathway. Her long-term goal is even more specific: pediatric oncology nursing. After spending years around doctors and nurses, she wants to give back in the same way.
Kenzie remembers seeing other children finish treatment and ring the hospital bell, moments that gave her hope during her own journey. Today, she carries a perspective that helps her keep challenges in perspective. “Not everything is that big of a deal,” she says. “There’s been so many other things.” It’s a circular journey: the hope she received from others has now become the blueprint for her own career.
Ella Navarette
Carter Thompson Halo Botha
Jen & Kenzie Nichols
Tara & Annabella Bové
What emerges from each of these stories is a common theme: “I don’t want to be labeled as a cancer kid,” Carter notes. “I want to be known as being a hard-working kid who works for his dreams and goals.” Cancer does not define them.
Organizations like Blood Cancer United share the same vision for each child they encounter. Formerly known as the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Blood Cancer United has supported more than 80% of FDA-approved blood cancer treatments since 2017, according to Christine Martinez, local “Light The Night” Campaign Director. And a number of those discoveries reach beyond blood cancers. She says, “Many of the treatments that we research initially for blood cancers go on to help other types of cancers and diseases as well.” Last year alone, Blood Cancer United served 1,962 patients across South Central Texas through patient support programs, advocacy, education, and financial assistance.
One of the organization’s most visible local efforts is “Light The Night,” which celebrates the resilience we see in each child’s story. This annual community walk brings together survivors, patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and supporters to carry red lanterns in support of current patients, gold lanterns in memory of loved ones lost, and white lanterns representing survivors and patients. “It’s so much more than a walk,” Martinez emphasizes. “It truly is a community event.”
For the Bové family, that spirit of community became intensely personal. As owners and publishers of Boerne Lifestyle, Tara and Kevin are accustomed to
“It taught me how lucky I am to be alive. Every day, whether it’s good or bad, is still a gift.”
—Ella Navarette
telling other people’s stories. This year, however, they found themselves living one.
As Annabella returned to school after a long absence, she feared something that had almost nothing to do with her treatments and tests. The week before classes started, she told her dad that she didn’t want to go back. “I hate my head,” she remembers saying. “I have no hair. They’re going to think I’m a boy.”
A gathering with future classmates helped ease her fears, but on her first day back, another child pointed at her and called her a boy. That’s when a classmate named George courageously stepped in and defended her. Later that day, Annabella announced she would marry him. She has since changed her mind, but the story serves as a reminder that children are often so quick to care. That compassionate spirit is what families, survivors, and organizations like Blood Cancer United hope to nurture.
From that scary drive to the emergency room to her first day of kindergarten, Annabella’s journey highlights that while the diagnosis was a chapter, it doesn't define the story. It’s the support from friends, family, and community that becomes the anchor we hold on to as we overcome.
“LIGHT THE NIGHT”
Join Annabella as this year’s “Pediatric Honored Hero” for “Light The Night” on October 10, 2026, at The Rock at La Cantera. This annual walk brings together survivors, patients, caregivers, and supporters for a powerful evening of unity. Millions of dollars have been raised through this event over the years, all of it ensuring families continue to receive vital patient advocacy and financial assistance in their time of need. Join the movement to help create more memories for patients and their families.
Get involved at lightthenight.org/events/san-antonio.
Olde Town Plumbing
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VISIT TEXAS STATE OPTICAL FAIR OAKS AND KEEP YOUR VISION HEALTHY ALL SUMMER LONG!
tsofairoaks.com | 210-361-0006 | Vtsofairoaks 9091 Fair Oaks Pkwy Ste 306, Fair Oaks Ranch, TX
Squeeze the Day
A LEMONADE DAY WINNER TURNS ONE SUCCESSFUL IDEA INTO NEW, DELICIOUS OPPORTUNITIES.
ARTICLE BY CAROLINE MITCHELL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAULA VM & MELISSA ASHLEY PHOTOGRAPHY
There is an old saying about what to do when life gives you lemons. Most people make the proverbial lemonade and stop there. Now entering sixth grade, Olivia Gruner is a Lemonade Day winner, a national competition winner, a charitable giver, and a budding entrepreneur whose latest idea turned her signature lemonade recipe into custom frozen flavors.
PART OF THE RECIPE
From the beginning, Olivia seemed to understand that the lemonade was only one part of the game. She started off strong when she participated in her first Lemonade Day as a second grader, earning “Entrepreneur of the Year” honors. The following year, she placed again, proving herself to judges as a business leader and forward thinker. While lemonade was the centerpiece, she quickly discovered that understanding customers matters just as much as having a good recipe. “I wanted to make frozen lemonade because it was really hot. I wanted people to enjoy it, be refreshed, and cool down,” Olivia says. “I just wanted to bring people joy.”
Alongside fresh lemonade, she created and sold teacher gifts timed around Teacher Appreciation Week. Inspired by her mother’s background in education, she offered decorated pens and handmade earrings, even taking custom orders. Rather than focusing on products she personally liked, Olivia considered what other people might want. She advises, “It’s important to sell stuff that everyone would like, not just what you would like. You gotta have fun and just live your life and do things.”
BIGGER THAN LEMONADE
As Olivia’s lemonade business grew, so did her ambitions. Her local success eventually led to national recognition through a Lemonade Day competition associated with entrepreneur and Shark Tank investor Daymond John. After winning Little Daymond’s Lemonade Day at the national level, she had the
opportunity to meet him via Zoom and gain access to future mentorship opportunities. “It was crazy, but I was very happy,” Olivia recalls.
Recognition was exciting, but Olivia was equally interested in experimenting with new ideas. Over the years, she developed multiple lemonade recipes and themed flavors, each with its own personality and purpose. One of her most meaningful creations was a blue lemonade inspired by her grandfather, a police officer who died in the line of duty. Called “Back the Blue Lemonade,” the drink helped support the Boerne Police Department through donated proceeds. The project combined creativity, community involvement, and entrepreneurship—three things that continue to shape her approach to business.
LEARNING TO LEAD
Along with the success, challenges have also come up. Running a stand requires more than mixing ingredients and collecting money. Olivia learned that leadership can be difficult, especially when working with friends and volunteers. “It’s hard to be a boss,” she says. One of the tough lessons was discovering that managing people sometimes requires hard conversations and clear expectations.
Those lessons gave her an early awareness of realities that many business owners only encounter much later in life. Whether she is creating new flavors, developing products, or imagining future businesses, Olivia approaches each project with the same mindset that helped her win “Entrepreneur of the Year”: pay attention, solve problems, and look for opportunities others might miss.
FROM LEMONADE TO SORBET
That mindset recently led to Olivia’s latest venture: a collaboration with Parker’s Ice Creams. Working from her own lemonade recipes, Olivia helped create and
“I just wanted to bring people joy...
Sell stuff that everyone would like, not just what you would like. You gotta have fun and just live your life and do things.”
name three custom sorbet flavors. The lineup includes “Squeeze the Day,” a classic lemonade sorbet; “Strawberries and Sunshine,” a strawberry lemonade variation; and “Squeeze the Night,” a boozy version for grownups inspired by her original lemonade recipe.
The partnership gave Olivia an opportunity to see one of her ideas move beyond the lemonade stand and into a local business. The sorbet collaboration showed how far one lemonade recipe could travel once Olivia started asking what else it might become.
THE NEXT SQUEEZE
While she is stepping away from the Lemonade Day competition for now, she is far from finished exploring new opportunities. “I kind of stepped away from that because I wanted to try other things,” Olivia says. “I want to become a vet, and I want to start my own vet clinic, so it was nice to learn about business and money and inventory and stuff." Whether it’s lemonade or anything else, Olivia sees entrepreneurship as valuable preparation for that future, helping her learn how businesses operate and how to serve customers effectively.
At the same time, she is already brainstorming other ventures. One idea involves a coffee partnership she’s calling “Boston Beans,” named after her Boston terrier. For now, Olivia is keeping her options open. If her track record is any indication, the next idea may be only a matter of time. If the old saying about lemons is true, Olivia may have found a loophole. When life gives her lemons, she makes lemonade, turns it into sorbet, wins awards, and starts planning her next business. Whatever comes next, she seems determined to keep squeezing every opportunity she can find.
LEARN MORE: Experience the fun of Boerne Lemonade Day next May. Join the Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce as young entrepreneurs set up stands and learn vital business skills, one cup at a time. It’s a community-wide celebration of bright ideas, sweet treats, and future leaders!
LOCAL.LEMONADEDAY.ORG/BOERNE PARKERSICECREAMS.COM
teaches & curiosity leads
“Thanks
Kathy L.
INSPIRATION SET IN STONE
Way to Go!
Shout-out to these awesome local kids who are at the top of their game and making their community a better place.
01
Boerne is full of incredibly talented, hardworking, and inspiring young people, and we love the opportunity to shine a spotlight on them. From the classroom to the competition floor, local kids are doing extraordinary things, and they deserve to be recognized for it. Here are just a few of the amazing young people making Boerne proud!
01 GEMMA PECHACEK | This 10-year-old phenom is a homeschooled gymnast who is the “flyer” in her trio. This year, they brought home first place in their age and skill category at the state and regional competitions. Gemma and her teammates are competing in the USA Gymnastics Championships this summer, where they hope to qualify for the International Development Team. Go, Gemma!
02 BISD P-TECH GRADUATES | 36 Boerne ISD students made history this spring when they became the district’s first official P-TECH cohort to earn an Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity & Information Assurance from Northwest Vista College—all while completing high school. The graduating class leaves Boerne ISD not only with a diploma, but with college credentials and CompTIA Security+ certifications in hand.
03 KAI MCKINNEY | He’s an outstanding fighter who’s kind and humble, too. The 16-year-old brought home the gold in his division at the IBJJF World Championships, the largest and most prestigious tournament in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Kai says he finds strength through his faith. “I competed with faith, knowing that my identity is found in Christ.” Oss!
04/05 CHAMPION GIRLS SWIM TEAM & KATE CANALES | In the 2025–2026 season, the team solidified its spot at the top with a second straight UIL State Swimming and Diving Championship. That dominance is thanks in part to Kate Canales, a junior and University of Florida Gator commit, who captured four gold medals. She broke some of her own records along the way to a No. 1 ranking in Texas and a 25th-place ranking nationwide.
06 BOERNE HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL TEAM | The Greyhound football team had a fabulous 2025–2026 season, finishing third in the state. They were back-to-back Regional Champions and State Semifinalists. They finished with a 13-2 overall record, a perfect 6-0 in district, and a beautiful 13-game winning streak.
07 KIDS HEART CHALLENGE | Five Boerne ISD elementary students ranked in the top 50 fundraisers out of 15,000 regional participants in the American Heart Association’s Kids Heart Challenge, earning the district its 2026–2027 “District of Lifesavers” designation. Through their efforts, Kellen, Victor, Ruby, Jaxson, and Samuel are helping fund life-saving research and heart health education across their community. Woohoo!
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To School In Style
Make your kids’ return to the classroom on trend with the assist from 248 N. Main St. Chateau.
ARTICLE BY EMMA MILLER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAULA VM
When it comes to dressing your kids and teens for the new school year, look no further than 248 N. Main St. Chateau, one of Boerne’s most charming shopping experiences. Tucked right next to the Boerne Visitors Center on Main Street, this sweet co-op boutique brings together a curated mix of ladies’, men’s, and kids’ clothing all under one roof. With a wine bar and even a custom hat bar where shoppers can design their own one-of-a-kind trucker hat, Main St. Chateau makes back-to-school shopping an exciting event. Here’s a look at some of the season’s best styles for your kids and teens.
| IMAGE 2
Georgia sports the bright pink Sunkissed Hat from The Sharing Kind ($24).
| IMAGE 3
Ciara poses in the Striped Smocked Blouse ($32) along with a beautiful turquoise necklace ($219), both from Branded J Boutique.
| IMAGE 4
Stella (L) is wearing the sporty Camo 2-Piece Set from The Sharing Kind ($30).
Everly (2nd R) is dressed in the Leopard Print 2-Piece Set from The Sharing Kind ($30).
5
Featured are luxury, hand-embellished crystal cowgirl boots from The Ruby Sparkles ($89).
| IMAGE 6
Everly is wearing the adorable Checker Romper ($28) paired with the Denim Bucket Bag ($24), both from The Sharing Kind.
| IMAGE 7
Georgia (L) and Stella (R) complete their looks from The Sharing Kind with the Girly Tank Dress ($35) and wide-leg, high-rise jeans ($49.50).
| IMAGE 8
Everly is posed in the Be Kind Hat ($24), the Linen Look Top ($27), and straight, high-rise jeans ($43).
| IMAGE 9
Ciara (L) has on the Checkerboard T-Shirt and Skort 2-Piece Set ($42) from Real Fashion Boutique, while Stella (R) is dressed up in The Sharing Kind’s Rouched Dress ($32).
| IMAGE 10
Georgia is posed in the Floral A-Line Dress ($37) from The Sharing Kind.
| IMAGE 11
Chateau owner Ashlyn Booth and her daughter Everly match in pink, wearing the Dream Pink Mini Dress from Real Fashion Boutique ($42) and Pleated Drop Waist Dress from The Sharing Kind ($62).
This season, pinks and blues, along with pops of brighter colors, are taking over the school halls. The looks featured here are inspired by floral and pastel tones, adding some softer colors to your kiddos' wardrobes. Lightweight fabrics and relaxed denim are refreshing some older trends, keeping your kids comfortable, stylish, and age-appropriate as they head back to school. Have a great year, everyone!
boernechateau.com | 210-630-9025 | 248 N. Main St.
Models Georgia Lindquist | Ciara Lindquist | Stella Lindquist | Everly Booth | Ashlyn Booth
TASTY Tail Waggers
The whole family can help whip up these healthy, easy snacks for your favorite furry friends.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSI EDISON
If you’re searching for a wholesome, fuss-free dog treat recipe, these Banana Oatmeal Dog Treats are exactly what you need. Mash up some banana, toss in some oats and peanut butter, and the result? Tail wags for days!
The best part? These are a simple way to get the whole family involved. Kids can help mix and cut the dough into fun shapes while everyone enjoys creating something special for the family pup.
BANANA OATMEAL DOG TREATS
Ingredients:
• 1 ripe banana
• 1 cup rolled oats (whole or ground)
• 1 egg (for binding)
• 1 tablespoon xylitol-free peanut butter
Directions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350ºF.
2. In a medium bowl, mash the banana until smooth.
3. Add the egg and mix well.
4. Stir in oats and peanut butter to form a dough.
5. Scoop the dough into balls, press them into cookie cutters, or scoop them into a silicone mold.
6. If not using a mold, place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Let cool completely before serving.
Pro Tips:
• Silicone molds for pet treats can be easily found online.
• You can store the dough in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 to 5 days.
• The dough will last in the refrigerator for up to 7 days, or for up to 2 months when frozen.
Nutritional Benefits:
• Banana: A great source of potassium, fiber, and vitamin B6
• Oats: Gentle on the stomach and good for digestion
• Eggs: Protein-rich and help bind the treats naturally
• Peanut Butter: Adds flavor and healthy fat
Bones and Bubbles Dog Spa
Bones and Bubbles Dog Spa is where pups enjoy sparkling self-wash stations and expert grooming that feels like a five-star spa day. Fresh, fluffy, and fabulously styled-every visit ends in tail-wagging charm.
CONNECT THEIR CONNECT THEIR POTENTIAL POTENTIAL better internet, better internet, better school year better e r
The Look
Portrait photographer Paula VM brings us a joyful gallery of the laughing faces and furry, fuzzy, and even scaly friends that brighten our homes every day.
paulavmphotography.com
Jackson & Pete PHOTOGRAPHY
Benson & Hank
Eden, Linden, & Hazel
Collette & Mr. Junior
Kaydence & Gigi
Raedyn & Shiner
Parker & Chap
Olivia & Redo
Paulo, Alessio, Marcello & Ruby
Sofie & Tucker
Mason, Frida, & Pumpkin
Caroline & Heidi
Luke & Rover
Trinity & Oakley
Oliver & Rover
Henderson & Hank
Cole, Deisel, & Mia
Olivia & Tucker
AUGUST 1ST
Restorative Yoga
101 Oak Ridge Dr. | 10:00 AM
Unwind with a gentle, grounding yoga practice designed to reduce stress and anxiety. This restorative session offers a peaceful environment to relax, recharge, and reconnect with your body and mind. To learn more, visit sanantonioyoga.com
AUGUST 1ST
First Saturday on Main
Main St. | 5:00 PM
Enjoy an evening of shopping, dining, live music, and special promotions during this monthly community event along the Hill Country Mile. Stroll downtown Boerne while exploring local businesses and soaking in the festive atmosphere. Admission is free. For more information, visit hillcountrymile.com
AUGUST 7TH
Family Night Hike at The Cibolo
140 City Park Rd. | 8:00 PM
Explore The Cibolo after dark on a family-friendly guided hike. Discover nocturnal wildlife and learn about the plants and animals that call the nature center home. Designed with children in mind, these hikes are perfect for curious explorers of all ages. For more, visit cibolo.org/night-hikes
AUGUST 8TH
Boerne Market Days
Main Plaza | 10:00 AM
Spend the weekend exploring one of Boerne’s favorite monthly traditions. Boerne Market Days brings artists, craftsmen, live music, and local vendors to the heart of the historic district. Browse jewelry, handmade goods, plants, antiques, and artwork while enjoying the surrounding boutiques, galleries, and restaurants throughout downtown. For more information, visit eventsoffmain.com/market-days
AUGUST 8TH
Nature Makers
33 Herff Rd. | 11:30 AM
This family-friendly program invites kids and parents to connect with nature through hands-on learning and play. Held monthly at Herff Farm, each session features a seasonal educational activity paired with movement-based fun, encouraging curiosity and outdoor exploration in an engaging, accessible way. To learn more, visit cibolo.org/calendar/nature-makers
AUGUST 8TH
Summer Luau Night
1 Resort Way | 6:30 PM
The spirit of the islands comes to Tapitio Springs Resort. Enjoy an evening of tropical vibes featuring thrilling fire handlers, graceful hula dancers, and a delicious Hawaiian-inspired buffet. Slip into your favorite tropical attire, gather your family and friends, and celebrate summer poolside with great food, entertainment, and a generous serving of the aloha spirit. Learn more and buy tickets at tapatiosprings.com/event/hawaiian-luau-night.
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AUGUST 20TH
The Chocolate Experience
33 Herff Rd. | 6:30 PM
Take a closer look at the craft behind artisan chocolate during this engaging class led by Chef Sidney Hill. Explore the journey from cacao bean to finished chocolate while learning about sourcing, roasting, flavor development, and techniques that shape texture and taste in fine chocolate making. To register, visit secure.qgiv.com/for/thecibolocenterforconservation/event/chocolate.
AUGUST 21ST
Kendall Country Nonprofit Lunch Bunch Meeting
TBA | 12:00 PM
Nonprofit leaders are invited to connect at this monthly gathering hosted by the Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce. The Lunch Bunch encourages collaboration, mentorship, and community partnerships. Lunch is provided. To learn more and RSVP, email holly@boerne.org
AUGUST 21ST
Adult Night Hikes
140 City Park Rd. | 8:00 PM
Explore the trails after sunset during Adult Night Hikes at Cibolo Nature Center. Designed for mature teens and adults, these guided hikes venture onto unfamiliar trails and offer a chance to experience the outdoors in a quieter, darker setting with possible nocturnal wildlife sightings. To learn more about night hikes at Cibolo Nature Center, visit cibolo.org/night-hikes
AUGUST 27TH
Boerne After Hours Mixer | Hosted by Sendero Wealth Management
153 S. Main St. | 4:00 PM
Network with local professionals and entrepreneurs at this Chamber mixer hosted by Sendero Wealth Management. Build connections, exchange ideas, and strengthen your business relationships in a relaxed setting. Chamber members attend free. Find out more and RSVP by emailing cassie@boerne.org.
AUGUST 29TH
Moondance Outdoor Concert Series
140 City Park Rd. | 7:00 PM
Enjoy an evening of live music beneath the stars during the Moondance Outdoor Concert Series. This longstanding Hill Country tradition brings together locals and visitors for performances, community gatherings, and laid-back summer fun. Bring a blanket, pack a cooler, and settle in for a memorable night outdoors. For ticketing information, visit cibolo.org/moondance.
SEPTEMBER 4TH
Kendall County Fair
1307 River Rd. | 5:00 PM
Get ready for some good old-fashioned fun at the 120th Kendall County Fair! Join the Kendall County Fair Association and thousands of your neighbors for a Labor Day weekend full of fun. Experience a fabulous parade, exciting rides, live music, and three nights of rodeo thrills. Learn more at kcfa.org, and we’ll see you there!
ARTICLE BY PAULI REEP
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
There is little more satisfying to your sweet tooth than ooey-gooey cinnamon rolls. Here is an easy and fun way to make this tearable, shareable treat!
CINNAMON MONKEY BREAD IS A FUN DESSERT FOR CHILDREN TO MAKE AND SHARE!
AROUND
INGREDIENTS
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup firmly packed brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 3 (12 oz.) cans of buttermilk biscuits
COOKING INSTRUCTIONS
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Generously coat the inside of a bundt pan with cooking spray or butter. Melt the butter in a pot or bowl. Mix the sugars and cinnamon in a separate bowl.
Open one can of biscuits, separate, and cut each into four sections. Next, roll each quarter into a ball and then put each one into the sugar mixture to coat. Place the balls in the bundt pan in a single layer and drizzle a little melted butter evenly over the top. Repeat with the other two cans of biscuits. Sprinkle the remaining sugar mixture over the top and bake for 30-35 minutes.
Be sure to let cool for a minute or two before turning the bread onto a plate and carefully removing the pan. If you leave the monkey bread in the pan much longer, it will stick and be hard to remove.
I sometimes make icing, a few tablespoons of milk, to about 1/2 cup of powdered sugar with a splash of vanilla.
Drizzle over the top while warm and enjoy!
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PUP -SICLE
As we all try to stay cool during the scorching dog days of summer, our furry friends need a break from the heat too. Pamper your pup with a refreshing “pup-sicle.” These dog-friendly frozen treats are sure to make your canine companion’s tail wag!
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 cup of plain, unsweetened yogurt (or dog-safe yogurt alternative)
• 1/2 cup of unsweetened, plain applesauce
• 1/4 cup of water or low-sodium chicken broth
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Mix the yogurt, applesauce, and water or chicken broth in a bowl until well combined.
2. Pour the mixture into ice cube trays or silicone molds.
3. Freeze for several hours or until solid.
4. Serve the frozen treats to your dog to help them cool off!
ARTICLE BY KRISTEN HAFNER
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Beating the Dog Days of Summer with a Canine Treat
2026 Orvis Endorsed Wingshooting Lodge of the Year
Joshua Creek Ranch
Texas Hill Country
“Consistently outstanding! I’ve been blessed to visit Joshua Creek Ranch for upland bird hunting at least twice every season for many years. Maintaining this level of excellence is a lot of work and I’m always so impressed by the people, the facilities, and the dining experience. A very special thanks to the guides who work so hard to make the experience special.”
Texaspirate | Orvis.com Review
