Our Family’s Bat-Watching Adventure On a warm October evening, our family decided to embark on a bat cruise in downtown Austin to witness one of the city’s most remarkable natural phenomena—the flight of the Mexican free-tailed bats. It was a perfect evening for a nature study, and we were all excited, especially my young son…
Author: Tanya Reilly
Brown Sugar Brandy Pumpkin Pie from Scratch Recipe
As the leaves turn shades of orange and gold and the air becomes crisp, there’s no better way to celebrate fall than with a homemade pumpkin pie. I love to make this Brown Sugar Brandy Pumpkin Pie, from scratch as it is a favorite during Thanksgiving. It fills your home with the comforting aroma of spices and also delivers a rich, indulgent taste that perfectly captures the essence of the season.
How to Grow Texas Sunflowers + 5 Creative Ways to Use the Seeds
How to Grow and Use Sunflowers We have a neighbor whose front yard is completely covered with massively tall sunflowers, probably because of the latest trend to attract bees, encourage native flower growth, and save money on cutting lawn grass. The neighbor told us we could take as many sunflowers as we want since he…
Traditional Georgian Khinkali Dumplings
How to Make Georgian Dumplings (Khinkali) Georgian cuisine, with its rich flavors and aromatic spices, is a treasure trove of culinary delights. Among its many gems, Khinkali stands out as a beloved and iconic dish. These succulent dumplings, filled with juicy meat and aromatic herbs, are a staple in Georgian households and a must-try for…
10 Tips for Exhausted Toddler Parents
Are you on the struggle bus with your kids? Parenting toddlers can be a whirlwind of emotions, from joy and laughter to frustration and exhaustion. It’s a phase that tests patience, creativity, and resilience. For parents juggling one or multiple toddlers, (like me, I had 2 under 2 and now I have 2 toddler boys)…
Pecan Tree Growing Guide: From Seedlings to Harvesting Your Own Pecans
About Pecan Trees: One sunny afternoon, my young son Neil discovered the fascinating world of pecan trees. Our front yard boasts a giant, mature pecan tree that regularly drops green pecan pods. Intrigued by these mysterious nuts, Neil started collecting them in the storage compartment of his push car. Although the nuts were not yet…
Apple Cake with Homemade Yogurt
How to Make Apple Cake: One of the most heartwarming experiences in my kitchen is baking apple cake for my one-year-old son, Leon. His curiosity and joy make the process even more delightful. This particular apple cake recipe enriched with homemade yogurt has become a family favorite. Watching Leon’s little face light up with every…
15 Things on My Summer Bucket List in Austin, Texas
Wondering what to do this summer in Austin? Summer in Austin is a magical and hot time of year, filled with vibrant colors, lively music, and an endless list of activities that make the most of the sunny weather. This year, my summer bucket list is packed with quirky and quintessential experiences that capture the…
Texas Summer Eggs in Purgatory
How to Make “Texas Summer Eggs in Purgatory”: Shakshuka, a dish of eggs poached in a spicy tomato sauce, has been a staple in North African and Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries. It is both hearty and versatile, perfect for any meal of the day. Today, we’ll explore a unique twist on this beloved dish:…
How to Teach a Child to Play Ball Safely
Our son Neil is a sporty little boy and loves to play ball all sorts of ways! We have been practicing toss and trying to dribble. He can’t wait for his baby brother to be able to join in on the fun! We have noticed that toddlers don’t know anything about safety and trying to…
