Life + Culture

Her Story

How One Girl From Uganda is Changing Lives Around the World Article by Melissa Svoboda | Photography by Lorelei Murphy Vanessa Lambie grew up in Uganda, a small, lush country in East Africa. As the eldest daughter of her mother—who was her father’s eighth wife—she was one of more than 40 children living on a sprawling family compound with her father and his wives, children, mother, and other relatives. When Vanessa was 5, her mother left after years of abuse, and suddenly Vanessa was expected...

Life + Culture

Give It Away

His Handcrafted Gifts Carry a Simple Message: Kindness is for Sharing Article and Photography by Stacy Berg Before I even stepped out of my truck, I could feel his energy: grounded, calm, and full of joy. There’s something unmistakable about Daryl Giles. He carries a quiet kind of happiness that feels warm, steady, and contagious—like sunlight. Giles learned early on that happiness isn’t something that happens to us; it’s something we choose. A teacher once told him, “You can’t control...

Finance + Legal Services

Giving Families the Tools to Thrive

Legal Guidance for Family Stability, Emotional Wellness, and Financial Clarity Article by Ty Coleman | Photography by Isabella Aldrete Blair Carroll knows the courtroom. But more importantly, he knows what’s at stake beyond it. An experienced attorney, devoted husband, and proud father of three, Blair has seen firsthand how the legal system can either fracture families or help them flourish. Family law touches the most important parts of your life: your children, your relationships, and your...

Home + Design

Texas Iowa Reclaimed

Giving New Life to America’s Oldest Wood Article by Micah Wiener | Photography by Kimber Brown In a world that prizes the new, Emilie Crockett has built a thriving business around what’s old. Very old. As owner of Texas Iowa Reclaimed, a family-run mill and nationally recognized design studio, Crockett spends her days surrounded by wood that has outlived generations. Her materials—reclaimed boards, beams, and planks salvaged from 18th- and 19th-century structures—once framed the barns and...

Fitness

Giving Begins From Within

Resting, Nourishing, and Moving Your Body Lets You Give From Fullness, Not Fatigue Article by Angie Lyngso | Photography by Knoxy Knox Giving to yourself isn’t indulgent or selfish; it’s what allows you to give more freely to others. When you honor your capacity and care for your own well-being—physically, mentally, and emotionally—you create the energy, presence, and connection that real generosity comes from. Maybe giving to yourself looks like starting your day with movement—not to burn...

Food + Beverage

Candy Cane Martini

A Peppermint Twist on Holiday Cheer Article by Drink to Remember | Photography by Isabella Aldrete Whether you’re hosting family, a business get-together, or a festive gift exchange with friends, an elevated seasonal cocktail always sets the mood. This Candy Cane Martini is a fun, merry way to shake up some holiday spirit at your next gathering. Creamy, cool, and perfectly pepperminty, it tastes like Christmas in a glass. A little naughty, a little nice—it’s beautiful to serve and even better...

Wellness

Giving Them Grace

Haven x Campise Farms Provides Loving Care and Dignity for Forgotten Horses Article by Micah Wiener | Photography by Sonya Seth and Jack Thompson In the hills just outside Dripping Springs, a small herd of aging horses moves slowly through the pasture. Some navigate by sound, some by memory; a few can no longer see at all. But here, among the live oaks and limestone, blindness isn’t a burden. It’s simply part of life at Haven x Campise Farms, a nonprofit sanctuary offering end-of-life and...

Life + Culture

Here Comes Santa Claus

Dripping Springs Couple Gives the Gift of Christmas Magic Article by Melissa Svoboda | Photography by Kimber Brown Each year, when the air cools and Christmas lights begin to twinkle, Santa Claus must make an important decision: appointing his most trusted neighborhood representatives to be his special helpers. For the past four years, the honor has fallen to Roger and Kathy Balettie, who turn their Belterra home into an enchanted winter wonderland and cheerfully step into the roles of Santa...

Food + Beverage

Shanny's Shoutouts: Vespa Rossa

Bringing the “Austin Buzz” to Dripping Springs Article by Shannon Holzwarth | Photography by Stacy Berg Every town needs that one spot where good food and good company come together effortlessly. For Dripping Springs, that place just might be Vespa Rossa. Italian for “Red Wasp,” Vespa Rossa is the latest creation from Daniel Brooks and Ryan Sampson, the duo behind Austin favorite Vespaio (which fittingly means “the buzz”). The name connection isn’t just clever; it’s a nod to their signature...

Education

Library Hits the Road

Your Gifts Support the Library on Wheels Article by Christina Thompson | Photography by Kristen Hafner and Cathy Richardson What’s better than a great book? A library on wheels delivering books, pop-up programs, and resources for all ages right to your area! The Dripping Springs Community Library (DSCL) is gearing up to launch its brand-new Library on Wheels, a mobile outreach vehicle bringing books, technology, and inspiration to every corner of the community. And the library needs your help...