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You know Marilyn , my friend from nursing school and fellow ER nurse that worked with me. Yes, that Marilyn, that totally insanely crazy friend of mine had somehow talked me into taking an art class, convincing me that we could hang our pictures proudly in our homes, people would admire  them when they came to visit, stare  at them fondly.  Marilyn thought she had real promise as an up-and-coming artist, as for me, neither of us held out a glimmer of hope. I couldn’t draw if

Holidays or unexpected popover guests don’t need to be stressful, anxiety-provoking, or expensive. Even if it’s an impromptu Halloween party, a cozy fall evening with friends, or Thanksgiving company that pops by, a few simple touches can make your home feel warm and welcoming. With just a few quick tips and ideas, see what works for your group or family. Keep a few items in a box or area of your home for quick access season to season, and let the good times roll! Holidays  o

Marilyn is an original, I’ll give her that. More than outspoken, more than verbose. She is one of a kind, when they made her, they threw away the key. When she was around, if you heard laughter, it was coming from somewhere in her vicinity. She was funny, but I liked to tell her she was funny looking. I hurried across campus, taking the stairs two at a time to Old Red, also known as the Ashbel Smith Building, on the University of Texas Medical Branch Campus in Galveston, Texa

Getting your garden ready for fall planting needn’t be a headache or overwhelming. A few simple tips and techniques can help you start a...

The drive to Aunt Ruby’s wasn’t far, just about forty-five minutes or so to Baytown Texas, from our home In Alta Loma, Texas, but it...

Three weeks before the Halloween party or event, send out invitations via mail or text or email: Let guests know if costumes are required...

This Texas Chocolate-Cinnamon Sheet Cake is the ultimate crowd-pleaser—rich, moist, and full of warm cinnamon flavor, topped with a gooey chocolate frosting studded with toasted pecans. Perfect for family gatherings, parties, or a cozy evening treat, it’s a slice of Southern comfort in every bite.

This delightful, carbonated punch is for any holiday or event, not just Christmas! Its fizzy, refreshing and gets oohs and aahs from far and wide. You’ll be glad you made it, and do have some extra ready, it’s good to the last drop!

Looking for a fresh mustard greens recipe? Learn how my friend Otto inspired my gardening journey and try this flavorful dish straight from the garden.

This hardy tomato-based soup is surprisingly delicious and simple to make. The onions, bell peppers and garlic add depth and richness to this buttery chicken flavored broth that satisfies in a most delightful way!

Karen Hand Allen has always had an active imagination. When she lived in the orphanage, her only companions seemed to be Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox!

It was 1962, the world was expanding, everything from retail to outer space was growing, people were going places, more connected to each...

Life at the Galveston Children’s Home wasn’t easy for Karen Hand Allen, but it was full of imagination and small joys. From quiet moments of reflection to adventures sparked by her vivid imagination, this is the story of a childhood shaped by resilience and wonder.