The Bright Eyed Brunette

 Sometimes, the best getaways aren't a plane ride away--they're tucked into your own backyard (or just a short drive from it). This past weekend Carl and I packed a bag, put our boots on (not actually), and escaped to Southfork Ranch for a little reset--and a whole lot of Texas charm. If the name rings a bell, it's probably because Southfork Ranch was the iconic setting of the TV drama, Dallas . Even if you've never seen an episode, stepping onto the property feels like walking into a chapter of Americana. It's sprawling, picturesque, and just the right blend of historic and kitschy. The iconic white fences, open fields, and horses grazing lazily in the distance made us feel like we had been dropped into a country music video. We were going full tourist mode when we got out of the car and began touring the museum! We also toured the mansion, heard behind-the-scenes stories from Dallas, and even took a few goofy photos pretending we were part of the Ewings. Afterward...

"He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me ? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep. " John 21:16  Have you ever felt like you failed so badly that God couldn't use you anymore? Peter probably felt that way. After all, he denied knowing Jesus three times in His darkest hour. Imagine the weight Peter carried as he returned to fishing, believing he was no longer worthy of following Jesus. But then, Jesus appeared-- cooking breakfast on the shore-- and called out to Peter, offering an invitation, not a judgment. How often do we disqualify ourselves from God's love because of guilt or shame? When Jesus asks Peter, "Do you love me?" it's not to condemn him but to restore him. Peter's three affirmations of love mirror his three denials, showing that every failure can be redeemed. Jesus then gives Peter a new mission: "Feed My sheep." It's as if Jesus is saying,...

 This was a pretty laid-back weekend. Carl and Makena both worked, and Trey worked half a day on Saturday mowing, so it was just me and the dogs. Maggie always looks happy, and Boone always looks grumpy :) Carl could get to work in the fields earlier this week; this was his first Saturday to work this year. We both know there are many more to come.  I get lots of pictures that look similar to this during the day :) I have recently discovered that I really enjoy thrifting. There is a little thrift mall in a town close by and I found this beauty: I have been looking for one of these for a while. Perfect for my jellybeans! Earlier in the week (St. Patrick's Day) Carlie sent me of my sweet Wrenley: How cute is this little turkey?! And it doesn't matter where I go in my car, or in my life, I'm always riding with a little Jesus! The weather has been very spring-like. There are some downsides to the nice weather: GNATS and POLLEN! They have both been pretty bad. Bad enough to keep...

 On Saturday night we headed to the big city of Little Rock to watch the PBR. I just love a rodeo. I like to see the cowboys riding and the people watching. Trey bought tickets for himself and his girlfriend, Alana and we bought ours a little later. We were on opposite sides of the arena!  They sent me a selfie :) Trey won a coupon for 20% off Ariat boots. It was a fun night, but I really wish it hadn't fallen on the beginning of Daylight Savings time. I definitely felt that lost hour the next day! It was so odd because they had actual rodeo clowns the last time we were at a rodeo (probably 2 or 3 years ago).  This time they had this little guy: I mean, he was entertaining and funny but BRING BACK THE RODEO CLOWNS! It was a great night of family fun! Much Love, Beth

In the South, sweet tea isn’t just a beverage—it’s a way of life. Whether served at Sunday suppers, backyard barbecues, or just enjoyed on a front porch swing, sweet tea is a staple of Southern culture. But there’s more to it than just sugar and tea. Let’s explore the history, tradition, and the perfect way to make a glass of Southern sweet tea. A Brief History of Sweet Tea Sweet tea has been a Southern favorite for generations, but its roots go back to the 19th century. The earliest known recipe for iced tea appeared in cookbooks as early as the 1870s, but it was usually made with green tea. By the early 1900s, black tea became more common, and sweet tea as we know it today took off, especially in the Southeastern U.S. During Prohibition, sweet tea became even more popular as a refreshing, alcohol-free drink. Over time, it became a symbol of Southern hospitality—something always offered to guests, no matter the occasion. What Makes Southern Sweet Tea Special? Not all iced tea i...

 Happy Monday, friends!  Since Caleb is away at the Fire Academy, Carl and Caleb's Dad, Dean took Wrenley to the Daddy/Daughter dance at school. It was really sweet and Carl said that Wrenley had a lot of fun.  Pappy's little princess 💗💗 Off they go in Pappy's dirty truck 😌 Pappy and Papa with Wrenley Pappy and Princess, Wrenley and someone's butt, lol Fun with friends! Wrenley with her bestie, Lucy Wrenley has a strong village. It is such a privilege have a sweet granddaughter to love!  Much Love, Beth