“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.” Colossians 3:23
Life seems to move a lot faster than I remember being told in the grocery store when I was a young mom. Do you remember hearing those words?
“Enjoy them while they’re young. It goes so fast.”
Or this one: “You sure do have your hands full.”
At the time, those comments frustrated me. I was in a season of simply trying to survive one day at a time with four young kids, and their words didn’t ring true to me. But they sure do now!
Now I am trying to savor any minute I can get with my family. They are all growing up right before my eyes and I love every single minute of it! One thing that I have learned is that they are watching me and I get the privilege of setting the best example I know how to show them my why. Working for the Lord in every aspect of my life: my marriage, my parenting, my friendships, my community, and my job.
Maybe you are in a season where your why feels unclear or distant. May this be a sweet reminder: when you fix your eyes on Jesus and align your heart with His, He is faithful to remind you of your why.
Jamie Amerman REALTOR®
210.315.8122
jamerman@phyllisbrowning.com
Hill Country Masterpiece Complete with a Casita
2939 PALOMINO SPRINGS, BANDERA, TX 78003
3 BEDS | 2 FULL, 2 HALF BATHS | 3.63± AC
3,910 SF MAIN HOUSE | 872 SF CASITA
LISTED FOR $1,699,000
Perched on a 40-foot bluff, this 3.63-acre masterpiece offers the ultimate in Hill Country luxury. The main residence features soaring 18-foot stone walls and a primary retreat with a private outdoor shower, while a separate 872-sq.-ft. casita provides a perfect guest sanctuary. From the poolside walkway to the riverfront flagstone deck and fire pit, every detail is designed for seamless entertaining and breathtaking stargazing.
Not gonna lie… Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros gets the closest to how I feel. But what defines a home for you? Let’s just take a moment and think about it together. Is it the location? The memories? Is it how long you’ve lived there? Maybe it’s the other people who live there too?
I’ve been thinking about this a lot recently because my wife and I are working on becoming certified foster parents. The process is rigorous, to say the least, but it should be. It’s important that as a society we’re able to trust that foster parents can sufficiently care and provide for kids who are often going through some terrible challenges. But for my wife and I, what is it that we hope to provide the children who we’ll care for beyond the food and shelter?
Love.
Joy.
Peace.
Purpose. Community.
These are our family values. We recite them every night as we say bedtime prayers with our daughter. And as I ponder the question of what defines a home, I keep coming back to them. This is what I hope we are able to give to the children we someday care for. And I hope we are able to give it to each other every day.
I even see those values in this “Home & Design” issue we’ve put together. You can really feel the love Tamara Strait has for her family, friends, and neighbors when you sit down with her over a freshly baked pie (“What Home Is All About,” p. 80). We explore the way live plants bring life and joy to any space (“Rooted By Design,” p. 30), and how a sauna cave can be a place of peaceful relaxation anytime of the year (“Winter Steam Meets Summer Breeze,” p. 66). We discover how apps can actually do you good when used with intention and purpose (“Tech For Good,” p. 88). And the community is sure to come to you when you celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with our recipes from The Lion & Rose (“The Leprechaun’s Share,” p. 98).
Those traits work for our family as we consider what makes our house a home. What traits work for you? Whatever they are, I hope you find them at home and everywhere.
Caroline Mitchell, Daniel Gertson, Brian McVey, Connor Mullins, Rey Lopez, Tanesha Dillard, Angelica Romo
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Paula VM, Jessi Edison, Joshua Aldama, Angelica Romo, Fancy Fox Photography, Blue Bruin Photography, Creative Estudios Photography, Housi Media, Alex Tynberg
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 Brandy Thomas
DANIEL GERTSON, EDITOR @BOERNELIFESTYLE
Texans value independence, so do we. ALLIANCE is owned by its members, reinvesting earnings back into local growth and better services that support your financial journey. That’s how we’re For People, Not Profit.
We believe a great home-buying experience starts with strong financial guidance. Our experienced lending team provides tailored mortgage solutions with an understanding of your goals and the community you’re investing in.
With local decision-making and down payment assistance, we’re here to help you feel right at home.
city scene
1: Sweet Annabella was all smiles in the snow! 2: Snow day in Boerne meant these sisters were outside making the most of the magic! 3: Snow, ice and a trampoline! These siblings made winter their playground. 4: No sled, no problem! Luke, Zach, and Dillon made a boogie board work on ice. 5: Residents all over the Hill Country bundled up to play outside. 6: Soccer in the snow? It was a frosty “yes” for Parker and Hayden. 7: Tiny adventurers braved the cold for their favorite cozy stops.
a spectacular event this year and every year. 11:
their excellence, passion, and hard-earned success. 12: Business of the Year (Under 50 Employees), Singing Water Vineyards. 13:
8: New Business of the Year, The Boerne Life. Owner and founder, Chris Brantner. 9: Nonprofit of the Year, Boerne Blaze Special Olympics.
Pictured: Mark Olson, Jenny Cashion, and Adam. 10: The Boerne Chamber puts on
Celebrating the 2026 Awards Gala winners for
Businesswoman of the Year, Patti Mainz, owner of Black Rifle Coffee Company. 14: Lance Pettigrew with SEnergy, Business of the Year (Over 50 Employees). Photography by Mark Nanez- NineYes Marketing
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.
Hicks Flooring Carpet One
Hicks Flooring Carpet One is grateful to welcome spring alongside the Boerne and Hill Country communities they're proud to serve. Their team has been spending the season helping homeowners plan thoughtful updates and flooring projects for their homes. They've also been preparing for their Spring Sale, which runs from March 5 through April 20. As a family-owned business, Hicks is honored to serve the Boerne Lifestyle families who make their work so meaningful!
Mission Golf Cars
Spring break is here—are you ready? Mission Golf Cars of Boerne is incredibly grateful to everyone in the area for the continued support you’ve shown. Thanks to you, they were finally able to update the store! They've replaced the carpet in the offices, resurfaced the entire showroom, and welcomed a new salesperson, Chad Simecek, to the team. Stop by to say "hello" and check out all the improvements for yourself!
Ace Handyman Services - Northwest
Think of Ace Handyman Services as your friendly neighborhood professional for home repairs and improvements. Serving the northwest San Antonio area for over nine years, including Boerne, Fair Oaks Ranch, and The Dominion, their multi-skilled craftsmen handle everything from "to-do" lists to complex remodels. With a focus on punctuality, clear communication, and a one-year labor warranty, they treat every project with expert care. Professional, background-checked, and locally owned, Ace Handyman will help make loving your home easy.
BY DANIEL GERTSON
DISCOVER HOW INTRODUCING PLANTS CAN REJUVENATE A ROOM, WELCOME MEMORIES, AND EXTEND AN INVITATION TO LINGER.
ROOTED BY DESIGN
“Design is rooted in nature. We are instinctively inspired to create by creation itself.”
This is the starting place for Donen Kemnitz, principal designer at Favorite Design Co. In the world of interior design, she says we often try to mimic the outdoors through a carefully curated
palette of earth tones, botanical patterns, or the rugged texture of stone. However, there is no substitute for the real thing. "Plants bring an organic authenticity to a space in a way that only they can," Kemnitz says. "You can take a plain, empty, and even boring room, introduce a few living elements, and suddenly you’ve created instant interest."
Being a designer means Kemnitz’s own home serves as her constant muse. It is the one place where she has complete creative freedom to experiment with her personal style and reflect her family’s journey. In a household where both she and her husband, Matt, run small businesses while raising two teenagers, downtime is a rare and precious commodity. "Our favorite thing to do together is simply being outdoors," Kemnitz shares. "We love being in the quiet, together."
This desire for a peaceful sanctuary led them to look upward—specifically, to a neglected balcony. When they bought the house, the space was far from inviting. The tile was lifting, and the railing was wobbly and peeling. Still, the view was undeniable. It was the perfect vantage point to watch Hill Country thunderstorms roll in or catch the fireworks on New Year’s Eve, but the environment didn't encourage anyone to linger.
“DESIGN IS ROOTED IN NATURE. WE ARE INSTINCTIVELY INSPIRED TO CREATE BY CREATION ITSELF.”
The couple decided to move the balcony to the top of their "to-do" list. They replaced the old tile with two shades of travertine in a diamond pattern and commissioned a sturdy new railing from a local welder. Add in plush outdoor furniture, a soft rug, and cozy pillows, and the structural transformation was complete. But it still lacked that "special something."
"The final and most important thing was adding plants," Kemnitz explains. "We wanted flowering plants that would add some color, and we had two blank walls that we wanted to act as a backdrop to plants that could double as art.” So she consulted with the experts at Hill Country African Violets and Nursery, who suggested a climbing rose and a mandevilla. By training them up trellises, the plants became a vibrant, ever-changing mural. A beautiful hibiscus was added to act as a mini-tree, grounding the space. "It’s now a favorite place for Matt and me to have a cup of coffee or talk while watching the sunset.”
Like many people these days, Kemnitz works primarily from home, so she finds that being surrounded by nature fuels her creativity. "When I’m meeting with clients and looking at materials, having plants in the studio gives the space a certain warmth," she says. This is why Kemnitz usually encourages a "plant in every room" approach. "Try a small potted ivy in the bathroom, or a large bowl filled with living moss on your kitchen island," she suggests. "Or a fern planted in something repurposed on your dining table, like my fern in an ironstone tureen.” The point, she says, is to invite interest.
To create professional-level depth, Kemnitz recommends layering. Use taller plants in corners to create height, and tuck smaller pots nearby to create visual layers. She also advises playing with the materials of the containers themselves. Terracotta and concrete are her go-tos for a grounded, earthy feel, while neutral white pots provide a clean, modern edge.
If you’re tight on floor space, Kemnitz suggests looking up. Hanging plants from the ceiling can draw the eye upward, making a room feel more dynamic. She recalls a recent kitchen project featuring wall-to-wall windows. While the natural light was amazing, the lack of wall space meant there was nowhere to hang traditional artwork. "Instead, we hung a really interesting plant from an antique pulley in a beautiful, earthy pot," she says. "Instant art!"
For those who fear they lack a green thumb, Kemnitz offers words of encouragement. She recommends starting with hardy varieties, like ivy or the classic African violet. Fiddle leaf figs are also excellent options for those wanting the impact of a tree with relatively straightforward care requirements.
There’s also help out there. "Two of my favorite online plant experts are Happy Happy Houseplant and Chantel Gray,” Kemnitz says. For assistance closer to home? “Turn to your local experts at Hill Country African Violets. They can help you with recommendations and care. They’ve never steered me wrong!”
When we incorporate plants, we do more than just decorate. We breathe life into our spaces, creating a home that grows just like we do.
Donen Kemnitz, founder and lead designer of Favorite Design Co., believes your home should be your greatest muse. Her playful yet thoughtful approach focuses on turning houses into personal sanctuaries that tell a family’s unique story. Whether she’s reviving a neglected balcony with “living art” or layering interior spaces with warmth and texture, Donen’s signature style blends nature-inspired elements with functional design. By collaborating closely with clients, she ensures every room becomes an inspiring, authentic retreat, truly making your home your favorite place to be.
favoritedesignco.com 210-315-0239
RESOURCES
hcavandnursery.com
830-249-2614 | 32005 IH-10 W.
happyhappyhouseplant.com @happyhappyhouseplant
channygrayhome.com @channygrayhome
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Beat the Heat LANDSCAPING TO
How Benitez Irrigation uses beautiful designs and thoughtful irrigation systems to answer the challenges of today.
ARTICLE BY CAROLINE MITCHELL
With the first hint of warm weather, homeowners start pacing their yards again, eyeing bare corners, sun-scorched patches, and places that never quite turned out the way they imagined. But at Benitez Irrigation, outdoor spaces are always in focus. Everything from hardscaping to flower beds is treated as an extension of the living space. Increasingly, homeowners are prioritizing landscapes that feel intentional, low-maintenance, and resilient in the face of Texas heat and tight water restrictions, and Benitez is designing systems to keep them vibrant.
IT STARTS WITH A CONVERSATION
Hugo Benitez began working in the industry at just 16, and the company he founded has been grounded in that experience. Benitez Irrigation now handles both landscape and irrigation design for projects ranging from modest residential lots to multi-acre properties. For Roxana Benitez, who joined the company in 2023, the appeal lies in watching spaces change. “It’s the results,” she says. “The transformations. What it brings to the home and what it brings to families.”
Consultations typically begin with a walk through the property, followed by budget discussions and sketches. “We talk about the investment they want to put into it so we can give them options,” Roxana explains. “If something needs HOA approval, we do a computerized design. And if it’s irrigation, we design that too.” Existing systems often need to evolve alongside new plans. “If there is already irrigation, sometimes it needs modifications or upgrades based on the landscape they’re choosing,” she adds.
TURF, XERISCAPE, AND THE SHIFT TOWARD EASE
In today’s climate, the team at Benitez has noticed a marked increase in demand for more resilient solutions as water restrictions and conservation considerations become commonplace. Artificial turf has become a growing trend among homeowners seeking a consistent look with minimal upkeep. “Lower maintenance and water conservation,” she says. “That’s the big draw, along with always having a green yard that looks good year-round.”
Xeriscaping, with landscapes dominated by decorative rock and hardy plants, is a rising trend as well. This includes many rock and drought-resistant plants that can survive on rainwater alone. “When it gets hotter, and restrictions get tighter,” Benitez says, “people tend to focus more on xeriscaping."
In Benitez Irrigation’s projects, irrigation blends seamlessly into the design, delivering water precisely without distracting from clean lines or stonework. Still, they are quick to manage expectations. “The biggest misconception is that there is no maintenance at all,” she says. “Everything needs maintenance. Not as frequent, like artificial turf compared to real grass, but it still does.”
That reality has prompted the company to expand its service programs. “We are adding maintenance programs this year because we saw a need for it,” she explains, noting that quarterly upkeep for weed prevention and cleanup can keep xeriscaped yards looking crisp.
DESIGNING FOR THE SEASON AHEAD
As spring planting accelerates, thoughtful irrigation and design decisions now will determine how landscapes perform during the harshest months ahead. “Depending on the project, it can go from two days to up to two weeks,” she says. Either way, the goal is always the same: spaces that support families long after installation. When irrigation is woven into the design, the result is simple: landscapes that look great, no matter how much heat or how little water the Texas weather has to give.
Across Texas, homeowners are rethinking outdoor spaces as water restrictions tighten and summers grow hotter. Benitez Irrigation reports rising interest in artificial turf, drought-tolerant plantings, decorative rock, and irrigation systems. Spring is a prime season for major upgrades, while maintenance helps yards stay polished year-round. No matter the time of year, Benitez Irrigation is ready to help homeowners create inviting outdoor spaces that last.
benitezirrigation.com | 210-791-6788
Hill Country Hail: Are You Ready?
FROM STRUCTURAL SAVVY WITH MAMMOTH ROOFING & SOLAR TO INSURANCE ESSENTIALS WITH STATE FARM, HERE’S YOUR GUIDE TO PRE-STORM PREPAREDNESS.
In this part of Texas, hail season isn’t a question of if, but when. As those spring clouds gather over the Hill Country, the vulnerability of your home’s most critical barrier—the roof— becomes a top priority. To help you weather the storm, we’ve gathered two local heavyweights for an essential education in protection.
Scott Edwards, CEO of Mammoth Roofing & Solar, breaks down the structural “mustdos” to protect your home from impact. Meanwhile, State Farm agent Ruben Cardenas, Jr., navigates the often-cloudy waters of insurance, ensuring your policy is as resilient as your roof.
(Responses edited for length and clarity)
What are some of the biggest dangers to prepare for as hail season arrives?
Edwards: The biggest threats are hail, high winds, and extreme heat, often working together. Hail can damage shingles instantly, wind can lift or loosen roofing materials, and prolonged heat accelerates aging. One of the challenges is that roof damage isn’t always obvious right away, but it can quietly shorten a roof’s lifespan or lead to leaks months down the road.
Tell us about some of the more common damage you see and how it causes problems.
E: We see a lot of bruised or cracked shingles from hail, lifted shingles from wind, and deteriorating sealant around flashing, vents,
and chimneys. These weak points allow water to get beneath the roof surface, which can eventually lead to leaks, wood rot, mold, and interior damage. Many homeowners don’t realize there’s a problem until it shows up inside the home.
What are some of the biggest surprises homeowners may encounter when filing hail-related claims?
Cardenas: In the Hill Country, we have more metal roofs and standing-seam roofing, which can be vulnerable to aesthetic damage. Confirm with your agent if the policy provides coverage for cosmetic damage, and have them show you in the policy that it is not excluded. A good question to ask is, “Did they give you the option to buy the cosmetic coverage, or is it automatically excluded?”
What can homeowners do to mitigate potential damage?
E: The best preparation is proactive maintenance and regular inspections. Having your roof inspected annually and after major storms can help catch small issues before they become costly repairs. Keeping gutters clean, trimming overhanging branches, and addressing minor repairs promptly all help extend the life of a roof. When replacement is needed, homeowners may also consider impact-resistant materials, which perform better during hailstorms.
How can homeowners ensure their coverage is as robust as possible?
C: Confirm with your agent that your policy provides replacement cost benefits, or you will only be paid your roof’s depreciated value, which is the value of your roof’s remaining life. The depreciated value of a 25-year roof that is 10 years old may mean you will be paid for only the 15 years remaining life after your deductible. That’s probably a lot less than it will cost to replace.
Have there been any recent changes in the insurance landscape?
C: Some carriers are increasing deductibles. The standard has long been a 1% deductible of the home’s value, but some companies are moving it to 2% or higher. Some may be lower than the 1%, but most of those are grandfathered by the company based on your tenure with the company.
Are there any warning signs of roof vulnerability?
E: Common warning signs include missing, curling, or lifted shingles; granules collecting in gutters; rusted or loose flashing; and cracked sealant around roof penetrations. Mold or dark streaks on shingles or siding can indicate trapped moisture or poor ventilation, which may point to underlying issues. Water stains on ceilings or walls, sagging roof lines, or excessive heat and moisture in the attic are also signs that a roof may be compromised. Age is another factor. Many asphalt roofs become more vulnerable after 10–15 years, even if they appear fine from the ground.
What is the most important piece of advice you have for homeowners?
C: If you have recently replaced your roof, be sure to let your agent and insurance company know. If possible, provide them with a copy of your receipt and keep it in a safe place in case you need to verify when it was replaced to maximize your compensation.
E: Don’t wait for a leak to take action. Roof damage is far easier and less expensive to address when it’s caught early. A professional inspection provides peace of mind and gives homeowners a clear understanding of their roof’s condition, enabling them to make informed decisions rather than react to emergencies.
MAMMOTH ROOFING & SOLAR
Providing expert roofing services in Boerne and the surrounding areas to solve problems for their fellow neighbors and help them in their time of need.
mammothroofs.com | 210-263-1144
26669 IH-10 W, Ste. 1
RUBEN CARDENAS, JR. STATE FARM
A dedicated local agent providing personalized insurance solutions, including auto, home, and life coverage, to help Hill Country families thrive.
rubencardenasjr.com | 830-249-3325
410 E. San Antonio Ave.
THE ART OF LIVING
Elegant sanctuaries designed to give you refuge in the rugged beauty of the Hill Country.
Luxury is defined not just by the grandeur of a home here in the heart of Texas, but by the lifestyle it curates. This exclusive collection of estates represents the pinnacle of Hill Country living, where breathtaking natural beauty meets unparalleled architectural artistry. From sunrise coffee overlooking the mist of the Guadalupe River to sunset soirées in hidden courtyards, these properties are designed for those who seek a sanctuary that is as inspiring as it is personal. Join us as we explore a portfolio of homes where world-class design, resort-style amenities, and the wild elegance of the Texas landscape converge to create a life without compromise.
167 Riverwood
146 UPPER CIBOLO CREEK RD.
$1,340,000
Experience the ultimate blend of rustic elegance and tranquil seclusion on this 18-acre Texas Hill Country haven. Perfectly designed for those who value space and freedom, this four-bedroom, 2,800+ square-foot estate on more than 18 acres offers a lifestyle defined by breathtaking panoramic views and timeless charm.
The heart of the home is an inviting kitchen featuring a center island with an electric cooktop, a stunning stone backsplash, and plantation shutters that bathe the space in natural light. Step outside to your private oasis: a sparkling pool with a cascading waterfall, framed by a sprawling deck and a covered porch designed for sunset watching. And with a cozy fireplace and gas grill, the outdoor kitchen makes dining al fresco a year-round delight.
Property Highlights:
• Guest House: A private 535 square-foot retreat, perfect for friends, family, or long-term guests.
• The Barn: A massive 51' x 24' structure with five-car capacity, horse stalls, and ample room for equipment.
• Details: Metal roof, walk-in closets, two fireplaces, and a well.
Whether you’re looking for a remote retreat to unplug and unwind, this estate delivers the quiet beauty of country living without compromise.
Listed by Susan Hallmark and Chris Havens live.kuperrealty.com/146uppercibolocreekroad
Blue Bruin Photography
Blue Bruin
Photography
146/144 RANGER CREEK RD.
$1,600,000
Discover an extraordinary Hill Country retreat where master craftsmanship meets whimsical design on 4.4 private acres. This estate is a true sanctuary, blending refined luxury with the rugged beauty of the Texas landscape to create a home that is as functional as it is beautiful.
The 2,110-square-foot main residence features an airy, open floor plan highlighted by stained-glass accents and exceptional woodwork. Every inch of the home has been thoughtfully utilized, offering maximum storage solutions and custom cubbies. Just steps away, the 2,000+ square-foot guest house and car barn is a marvel of its own. It features a clever "secret" design, including a Murphy bed tucked behind a bookcase and a hidden staircase that leads to a massive upstairs apartment framed by stunning windows. With its own driveway, this space is perfectly suited for a high-end shortterm rental or a multi-generational family compound.
Property Highlights:
• Secret Features: Hidden bookcase staircase and Murphy bed in the guest house.
• Versatile Barn: A massive three-car barn with ample room for projects and storage.
• Eco-Friendly Living: Equipped with a rainwater catchment system, a well house, and a storage building. Experience a home where every detail tells a story and the views never end.
Listed by Susan Hallmark live.kuperrealty.com/146and144rangercreekroad
Photos by
Blue Bruin Photography
102 ARROYO
$1,300,000
Boasting nearly 3 acres within the prestigious, high-end community of Cordillera Ranch, this elegant estate offers a harmonious blend of luxury and privacy. Designed with the modern family in mind, this meticulously crafted home celebrates the relaxed ease of spacious, ranch-style living.
The home is built around an expansive open-concept great room, with soaring vaulted ceilings and a signature rock fireplace. The layout flows seamlessly into a gourmet kitchen, which boasts top-of-the-line appliances, a generous island with its own bar seating, and a walk-in pantry. For those who work or train at home, the layout includes a dedicated office with custom built-ins and a private exercise room. Retreat to the master suite for a spa-style experience, featuring a tranquil en suite bathroom and a large walk-in closet with views of the lush, wooded grounds.
Property Highlights:
• Gourmet Kitchen: Premium appliances and a large center island perfect for hosting.
• Private Grounds: Just under 3 acres with mature trees and ample room to add a pool or garden.
• Outdoor Living: A covered patio designed for dining under the Texas sky.
Come home to one of the area’s most sought-after neighborhoods and find the perfect balance of comfort and sophistication.
Listed by Jamie Amerman phyllisbrowning.com/property/ 102-arroyo-boerne-tx-78006/89083093
167 RIVERWOOD
$5,400,000
Set upon 9.6 gated acres within Cordillera Ranch, this transitional luxury estate offers a level of privacy and sophistication rarely seen in the Texas Hill Country. Bordered by a river on one side and a nature park on the other, this property creates a secluded sanctuary with no neighbors in sight. Completed in 2023, the main residence and separate guest home harmonize traditional architecture with cutting-edge biophilic design, including a stunning interior "Living Wall" with 170 plants.
The interior is a showcase of world-class craftsmanship, featuring Italian Snaidero cabinetry, Porcelanosa marble, and hand-hewn oak beams. Ten-foot stacking glass doors dissolve the boundaries between the sleek living spaces and a resortstyle backyard. The heated negative-edge pool, oversized spa, and covered and heated outdoor space make every moment outside luxurious. You can practice on your private par-3 golf course, relax in the Hemlock wood sauna, or host friends or family in the sunken outdoor lounge. Every inch of this nearly-new estate is designed for an unparalleled entertainment experience.
Property Highlights:
• Exceptional Privacy: Bordered by a river and nature park; gated and secure.
• Smart Home Luxury: Automated screens, curtains, and state-of-the-art A/V systems throughout.
• Chef’s Amenities: Gourmet kitchens, a dedicated wine bar with dual towers, and a large walk-in pantry.
• Garages & Maintenance: 7+ garage spaces, a fullhouse generator, and drought-tolerant landscaping with artificial turf.
Experience a lifestyle of adventure and serenity in this unparalleled Hill Country estate.
Listed by Jamie Amerman phyllisbrowning.com/property/ 167-riverwood-boerne-tx-78006/91426337
118 OBSCURE WAY, SPRING BRANCH
$1,299,000
Perched on a 1.16-acre corner lot in The Peninsula at Mystic Shores community, this 2025 new-construction masterpiece by BCM Custom Homes defines sophisticated lake living. Spanning over 4,200 square feet, this single-story estate masterfully balances modern design with a warm, inviting atmosphere. From the moment you enter, a grand foyer showcases glass walk-through wine rooms, setting the tone of high-end elegance that carries throughout the home.
The soul of the residence is an expansive family room with a custom concrete fireplace and soaring windows framing breathtaking Hill Country views. Culinary enthusiasts will gravitate to the chef’s kitchen, anchored by double islands with stunning waterfall quartz countertops. For entertainment, transition to the massive game room or step onto the oversized covered patio, where a built-in grill and outdoor fireplace await. Situated on the shores of Canyon Lake with no city taxes, this home offers a rare opportunity to be the first to experience a lifestyle of pure Texas luxury.
Property Highlights:
• Chef’s Kitchen: Double islands with waterfall quartz and professional-grade finishes.
• Master Retreat: Luxurious marble flooring, a multi-head spa shower, and a boutique-style walk-in closet.
• Versatile Floor Plan: 4 bedrooms (all en-suite), a private study, separate dining, and an additional flex room.
This is a true "never lived in" gem, ready for its very first owner to call it home.
Listed by The Grimes Group grimesgroupproperties.com/118obscureway
Photos by Creative Estudios Photography
2219 CLUBS DR.
$2,999,999
This 4+-acre masterpiece in the elegant Clubs Village of Cordillera Ranch offers an unparalleled sensory experience. The four-bed, four-bath, almost 4,500 square-foot home immediately captivates with a stunning, architecturally designed koi pond that flows gracefully from the front yard to the back, passing directly beneath a striking glass entryway. This unique feature creates a serene, floating sensation as you enter a residence where every detail was meticulously planned for both luxury and tranquility.
The interior showcases hand-finished wood floors and an open-plan layout bathed in natural light from expansive windows. The culinary center is an unmatched Thermador chef’s kitchen, featuring Wood-Mode “Knotty Alder” cabinetry and a Turbo Chef oven for world-class efficiency. For relaxation, the master suite offers heated floors and a spa-like bath, while a dedicated media room with a projector provides the ultimate theater experience. Even the four-legged family members are pampered with their own climate-controlled room and turfed dog run.
• Masterful Kitchen: Thermador 6-burner gas range, steam oven, warming drawer, and granite finishes.
• Outdoor Paradise: Heated natural stone pool and spa, plus an extravagant kitchen featuring a Blackstone, Primo grill, and pizza oven.
• Miles of Views: Elevated panoramas with remote-controlled shades for privacy.
Located within the highly rated Boerne school district with no city taxes, this estate offers the ultimate resort-style lifestyle in an extremely private setting.
Listed by The Grimes Group grimesgroupproperties.com/2219clubsdrive
Photos by Creative
Estudios Photography
317 LIMESTONE CREEK, HILL COUNTRY VILLAGE
$7,990,000
Designed by renowned architect Don McDonald, this extraordinary 10-acre gated estate is a masterwork of European Transitional design. Offering rare privacy just minutes from the best of San Antonio, the property is a veritable love letter to architecture, blending timeless structural beauty with a warm, modern livability. The estate’s layout revolves around a central courtyard, creating a cohesive sense of place between the main residence, the lush gardens, and a resort-style Keith Zars pool.
The main home is a sanctuary of light and space, featuring a library, a sunroom, a garden room, and a dedicated scullery. Culinary enthusiasts will appreciate the kitchen’s wood-burning pizza oven and garden views, while the expansive family room captures the serene spirit of the grounds. For hobbies and hosting, the secondary structures are equally impressive: a German barn-inspired 5-car garage with a massive upper-level recreation suite, and a fully independent 2,500 square-foot guest house complete with its own 2-car garage.
Property Highlights:
• Architectural Distinction: A signature Don McDonald design blending timeless European influence with Texas scale.
• Refined Amenities: A full-size tennis court, manicured gardens, and resort-style pool.
• Expansive Accommodations: A total of five bedrooms and multiple bonus rooms and offices across three distinct structures.
• Unrivaled Privacy: 10 gated acres providing a remote retreat feel just minutes from San Antonio’s vibrant urban core.
This property is truly a landmark estate where heritage, privacy, and modern luxury live in harmony.
Listed by Tamara Strait straitluxury.com/properties/317-limestone-creekhill-country-village-tx-us-78232-1907544
Photos by Housi Media
115 SEALE HILL RD., COMFORT
$4,449,000
Resting on 12.5 acres with hundreds of feet of deep, sparkling frontage on the Guadalupe River, this Comfort estate is a breathtaking departure from the Hill Country norm. This visionary home fuses elegant luxury with the rugged, soulful comfort of a riverside retreat.
The architecture is defined by its tactile, organic finishes, most notably the tadelakt plaster, which serves as the primary medium for all walls and counters, offering a seamless, velvet-like texture throughout. Reclaimed timber beams and antique wooden doors ground the modern silhouette, while a clever "split-wing" floor plan separates the public entertaining spaces from the private quarters. Every room features floorto-ceiling sliding glass doors, ensuring the river’s deep blue vista is a permanent fixture of your interior experience.
Property Highlights:
• Global Aesthetic: Old World-inspired tadalakt plaster surfaces and hand-painted wall details.
• Deep Waterfront: 342 feet of private access to a gorgeous stretch of the Guadalupe River.
• Resort Grounds: Lush, award-winning landscaping by Land West Design Group of Austin.
• Masterful Flow: A breezy primary hallway connects a chef’s kitchen and oversized family room to four spacious bedrooms and a versatile office/bunk suite.
• Outdoor Living: Multiple vignettes, including a front courtyard with a fireplace, a riverside covered patio, and a vast, flat lawn for hosting.
More than a home, this estate is a curated sanctuary designed for the family that seeks to build traditions within a one-of-a-kind work of art.
Listed by Tamara Strait
Photos by Alex Tynberg
At TNT Services Co., ranch restoration isn’t just about moving dirt it’s about restoring life to the land. We transform overgrazed, eroded, or inaccessible properties into thriving, functional, and beautiful ecosystems tailored to each landowner ’s vision. With decades of hands-on experience and a commitment to trust, longevity, and sustainability, we deliver results that last for generations. Whether you’re looking to increase land value, improve wildlife habitat, or preserve your family’s legacy, we’re your partner in purposeful land stewardship.
TNTServicesCo com 830-955-1857
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAN JENKINS, AMANDA PROUDFIT
MID-CENTURY WARMTH, REIMAGINED
There’s a certain moment when a house stops feeling new and starts feeling like home. It isn’t marked by square footage or finishes alone. It is something quieter, more emotional. In this home, designer Kate Manz set out to do exactly that: give a newly built home a heartbeat and a soul.
Rather than treating the house as one sweeping statement, she approached each room as its own story, layered with meaning, memory, and texture. The result is a home that feels collected, personal, and deeply lived-in.
“Tackling each space and room as its own story and concept is how to make a new space feel personal,” Manz explains. “But bringing it all together cohesively is always the challenge.”
Her solution? Warmth, intention, and a strong belief in the power of people. In new builds it can take years for a home to shed its newness. For this project, the goal was to fast-track that sense of belonging by layering in pieces with history and heart. Vintage market finds, local artists, and meaningful objects play a starring role throughout the home.
“My love for design goes hand in hand with the people and stories that bring it to life,” she says. “I absolutely love seeing the evolution from concept to completion and all the elements and people that help bring those ideas to reality.”
That philosophy becomes especially important in the home’s expansive open-concept living area, where scale could easily overpower intimacy.
THE OPEN CONCEPT, REIMAGINED
The main living space is defined by bringing the outside in with sweeping outdoor views and generous proportions. Rather than fighting that openness, embrace it.
“The big open concept room really highlights the expansive outdoor views,” she says, “but making intimate spaces within that open room was really important.”
A layered niche wall, created in collaboration with the interior architect Nick Flower, brings both structure and softness to the room. It introduces texture, depth, and a place for unique objects and family heirlooms to live, turning negative space into a personal gallery.
RECHARGES TRINITY & EDWARDS AQUIFERS
SUPPORTS DIVERSE ECOSYSTE S
SUSTAINS LOCAL WILDLIFE HABITATS T he C ib o lo C r eek
WINTER STEAM MEETS SUMMER BREEZE
By combining fire and stone, this innovative sauna cave ensures homeowners enjoy their outdoor living space all year long.
ARTICLE BY BRIAN MCVEY PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAULA VM
RicoRock has carved out a distinctive place in the outdoor living industry by turning nature into a repeatable art form. Known for manufacturing realistic rock waterfall kits, the company has long bridged the gap between natural
aesthetics and engineered reliability. However, their latest project pushes the boundaries of "engineered art" even further: a fully functional, convertible sauna cave.
As demand grows for immersive, year-round outdoor spaces, Bruce Riley, owner of RicoRock, is shifting the focus from purely aesthetic water features to multi-sensory experiences. This innovation was born of a structural necessity that became a design breakthrough. What began as a pool repair became the foundation for the company’s first "sunken" sauna.
A SUBTERRANEAN SOLUTION
The pool maintenance project began without any spa concepts in mind. After digging a 4-foot-deep pit for structural footings, Riley saw an opportunity in the earth itself. “We had this big hole, and I thought, ‘Well, we build caves. Why not build a sunken cave?’” Riley explains.
By building downward, RicoRock avoided the visual bulk of a massive above-ground structure. “It’s only
five or six feet out of the ground,” Riley says. “But that extra three feet of space below ground makes it nice and big, so you can walk around in there. There’s an 8-foot ceiling height in there.”
TURNING STONE INTO STEAM
The inspiration to transform the cave into a sauna came from a crew member from South Dakota, where saunas are a staple. The transition required sealing the traditionally open-air rock structure. “The hardest part is closing off the openings,” Riley notes. “If the steam escapes, obviously, you’re not going to heat up the room. You want to heat up the room to like 120º or 140º.”
To achieve this, the team designed removable plexiglass windows and doors to trap heat during the winter months. This convertible design allows the feature to serve as a cozy retreat in winter and an open-air "cool cave" in summer, requiring only an hour to dismantle the panels when the seasons change.
THE CONCRETE ADVANTAGE
While traditional saunas rely on wood, RicoRock’s cast concrete panels offer a unique thermal advantage. The structure was built using block walls and a concrete roof, with RicoRock’s signature rock panels attached for a natural finish. Juan Pablo Rodriguez of Rockstar Formations ensured the entire structure looked elegant and refined.
“It’s a concrete structure, and the concrete helps hold the heat. A concrete structure is ideal for a sauna,” says Riley. Beyond thermal mass, the durability is unmatched: “It’s a permanent structure, so it’ll last longer than people’s houses. The concrete construction is the best there is.”
REDEFINING THE POOL EXPERIENCE
For many homeowners, the pool area becomes a ghost town once temperatures drop. The sauna cave changes that dynamic, turning the backyard into a year-round destination. “During the winter months, people don’t use their pool very much,” Riley observes. “But in this case, I use the heater and get the pool up to 85 or 90 degrees. Then we can go back and forth from the sauna to the pool. It’s just a real neat experience.”
While these full-scale custom grottos are a significant investment, the modular nature of RicoRock’s technology means the "sauna cave" concept is the new frontier for high-end outdoor design, proving that with a bit of fire and stone, a backyard pool can be enjoyed in any season. ricorock.com | 830-379-7900 | 971 Schriewer St., Seguin
“We can go back and forth from the sauna to the pool. It’s just a real neat experience.”
Juan Pablo Rodriguez
Don’t sacrifice style for accessibility. Our new ADA-compliant trailers provide a seamless, high-end experience for all of your guests. Featuring premium interiors, full climate control, and porcelain flushing toilets. Perfect for the VIP experience at events and weddings. We also have plastic units for every occasion such as a job site or backyard party.
LUXURY OUTDOOR LIVING Designed to Last
ARTICLE BY CONNOR MULLINS
MIKE LOGSDON IS REIMAGINING OUTDOOR SPACES THROUGH SUSTAINABLE INNOVATION.
Over the past few years, beautiful outdoor spaces have become an expectation rather than a luxury. Hill Country patios stretch farther than ever, pools appear in once barren backyards, and carefully curated landscapes function as extensions of the home.
But as drought conditions persist, the appeal of water-heavy features collides with the imperative to conserve resources in an increasingly fragile environment. Few people in the area understand this dilemma better than Mike Logsdon.
Logsdon is the founder of Land Design, an outdoor design business he started in 1983 in Oklahoma. In 1985, Logsdon moved to San Antonio, and in 1998, he settled in Boerne. In all that time, he has created countless pools, patios, landscapes, and hardscapes across the Hill Country. Today, demand for outdoor living spaces continues to rise, leading Logsdon to consider how much water his industry consumes and how to address future challenges responsibly as a designer. “I waste water for a living,” Logsdon says, chuckling. “I mean, I have a pool. Who doesn't want a pool?”
Logsdon’s career began in murky waters, as he struggled at Texas Tech and felt unsure about his future. All of that changed when his mother introduced Logsdon to the idea of a different career. “It was actually my mom telling me to look up landscape architecture,” Logsdon recalls. “I read the description of it, but I didn't know anything about landscape architecture. I did know I couldn't handle trigonometry and physics, so I went, ‘Wow, none of that. Let me design everything.’ I knew at that point that it was a kind of a no-brainer.”
This discovery set the course for a career spanning four decades. Land Design approaches each space with the same curiosity that first drew Logsdon to the field. When he started, outdoor design was often treated as an afterthought. “When I graduated, they didn't call it ‘outdoor living,’” Logsdon says. “They called it ‘landscaping.’” And that landscaping was considered merely decorative and an optional finishing touch rather than an essential design element.
As the expectations for outdoor spaces grew, so did the scale of Land Design’s projects. Fire features, outdoor kitchens, covered patios, and pools became regular requests. But in a region prone to drought, Logsdon has begun to reshape how he executes each project. Instead of expanding his team's workload, Logsdon scaled it back. Today, Land Design takes on six to eight projects a year with intentional focus on sustainability-driven design. Grass-heavy landscapes have evolved into hardscape solutions, reducing irrigation demands and longterm water use.
turf. It's extremely expensive to put in, but longterm, it ultimately is a good solution.” Logsdon says that synthetic turf lets homeowners significantly reduce water use and expenses over time, offsetting those higher upfront costs.
For Logsdon, business decisions are guided by more than design. They’re anchored by his faith. “It really is God's business,” Logsdon says. Logsdon handles all design work; his wife, Nancy, continues to manage the bookkeeping; and Homar Rodriguez oversees all construction for each project. “Homar and I both believe the first person we work for is God. We're here to serve people.”
“It’s a fight, but let’s do something that can keep us from wasting more water than we have to.”
These days, Logsdon adamantly recommends three solutions: rainwater harvesting, automatic pool covers, and synthetic turf. By regularly capturing rainfall, homeowners can reduce their use of groundwater. “I'm an unpaid salesman for rainwater harvesting,” Logsdon says with a laugh. “Even if you have a cover, you should consider rainwater harvesting. Also, if I'm going to be preaching about water, I'd better start considering synthetic
That mentality is on display in his connection to Hill Country Daily Bread Ministries. In the late 1990s, he worked for Agnes Hubbard and Sherry Klein, known then as the “Garden Angels.” Years later, Logsdon and his family were volunteering at HCDBM when Hubbard—who founded the organization—said “hello.” “Agnes comes over and taps me on the shoulder, and we start reconnecting. It ended up being one of the best projects I’ve ever done. Agnes is like a sister to me now.” He holds onto that experience as a reminder of what he values most: long-term relationships rooted in serving others.
He relates to his team the same way. “Homar is like a son to me,” Logsdon says. “We have a 100% satisfaction rate because he's doing such a great job with our clients.” And the ideals of long-term relationships and service even drive his emphasis on water conservation and stewardship.
Now in the 43rd year of Land Design, Logsdon continues to adapt, balancing luxurious outdoor design with serious responsibility in a region where water scarcity is no longer temporary. “The drought is here to stay,” Logsdon says. “I don’t think it’s going away, and even if it is, we’ve got to be more sustainable-minded.” But instead of viewing that as a limitation, Logsdon believes the future of outdoor living depends not only on restraint but also on creativity. “Use less grass, cover a pool if you can,” he encourages. “Just because you can do something, doesn’t mean you should… It’s a fight, but let's do something that can keep us from wasting more water than we have to.”
landdesigntx.com | 830-816-6670
Paula VM
LOVE IS Moving In
HELPING MAKE HOMES IN OUR COMMUNITY WHOLE, HEALTHY, AND STRONG.
HILL COUNTRY DAILY BREAD MINISTRIES - FAMILY MENTORING PROGRAM hillcountrydailybread.org/family-mentoring-program
Based right here in Boerne, this organization transforms lives through its Family Mentoring Resource Program. Beyond emergency spiritual support and food, they offer personalized, ongoing support to help people navigate the complex issues contributing to crises or persistent poverty and build functional, dignified, and stable homes.
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY (KERR COUNTY & SAN ANTONIO) habitatkerr.org | habitatsa.org
Serving the corridor from Kerrville down to Bexar County, these affiliates provide a "hand up" through affordable homeownership and critical repairs. By combining volunteer labor with homeowner "sweat equity," they build energy-efficient homes and offer "Aging in Place" modifications, ensuring Hill Country residents have safe, permanent foundations.
REBUILD TOGETHER (AUSTIN SAN ANTONIO) rtasa.org
This nonprofit specializes in critical home repairs and modifications for low-income seniors, people with disabilities, and veterans across Central Texas and the Hill Country. The Safe At Home program focuses on making homes safer and more accessible, while their Community Revitalization Partnerships empower communities by revitalizing parks, schools, community centers, and more.
SOCIETY OF ST. VINCENT DE PAUL (ST. PETER THE APOSTLE CATHOLIC CHURCH) stpetersboerne.com/st-vincent-de-paul
Serving the Boerne community, this ministry provides direct aid to neighbors in financial distress. Last year, the Southwest Texas chapters awarded $600,458 in rental assistance to help keep individuals and families in their homes. Beyond immediate assistance, they focus on housing stability by helping families secure essential household items, ensuring local residents remain safely housed and treated with dignity.
ARCADIA RECOVERY COLLABORATION (THE IMPACT GUILD) theimpactguild.com/arc
This innovative collaboration focuses on long-term housing recovery and community resilience, especially in the wake of the devastating floods last July. By connecting skilled tradespeople, designers, and resources, they help families navigate the complex path of restoration and transform rebuilt houses into lasting homes.
Arcadia Recovery Collaboration
Hill Country Daily Bread Ministries
Your Dream Backyard is Just a Call Away!
Specializing in Sports Courts, Outdoor Kitchens, Pergolas, Patio Additions, Turf, Putting Greens, Stone Work, Lighting and Landscaping
STEP INTO TAMARA STRAIT’S HILL COUNTRY LIFE WHERE FAITH, FAMILY, AND PRESENCE DEFINE WHAT HOME REALLY MEANS.
ARTICLE BY REY LOPEZ PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOSHUA ALDAMA
On a Sunday afternoon in the Hill Country, you can learn a lot about a person just by watching how they host.
At Tamara Strait’s place, “hosting” isn’t polished or performative. It’s a table in use, a potluck turned tradition, friends showing up with dishes in hand, kids moving in and out, and a house that values closeness over square footage. “We have friends over to our house every week,” she told me. “It’s called ‘Sunday dinner,’ and we theme it.” Her children pray over “Sunday dinner,” she says, and they thank God for it because they love it that much.
That’s the kind of detail that doesn’t come from branding. It comes from somebody who believes home is not only spiritual, but also emotional, long before it’s a real estate term. “Home to me is my family,” she said. “Wherever they are. It does not matter.” When they’re away, even in her own living room, Strait says it doesn’t feel like home. For her, home is presence, people, and shared space.
Tamara grew up in a world where “home” was both a place and a moving target. She’s an Air Force brat, born in Madrid, Spain, with early childhood memories that include Okinawa, Japan, before landing in the San Antonio area when her father was stationed at Randolph Air Force Base. Her father served 23 years as an aircraft mechanic, the kind of job that doesn’t just pay the bills, but subtly shapes a child’s worldview. She remembers being brought onto the flight line, watching the uniformed men work, being close enough to the machinery and the discipline to absorb something you can’t really teach in a classroom.
Later, when her parents divorced, and her father raised the kids, that work ethic became less of a concept and more of a daily reality. He was providing on his own, and the lesson that left the deepest mark wasn’t that they had a lot, but that they didn’t go without. He worked hard, and the family learned to interpret hard work as a form of love.
That’s a lesson Strait holds on to, and it’s a big part of why she champions small business. She grew up watching her father do whatever was needed to support the family: running a vacuum shop, taking a second job, and working hard without complaint. That’s one trait she strives to demonstrate every day.
Other traits, Strait just exudes. When asked what someone would quickly understand about her if real estate never came up, she didn’t hesitate. They’d know she loves Jesus, she says. They’d know her family is everything. They’d sense she’s “justice-driven”—the kind of person who isn’t especially comfortable in moral ambiguity. She described herself as strong, firm in her beliefs, and someone who loves deeply. The overarching message in Strait’s story is clear: she values real connection and devotion to family over outward appearances. This theme threads through her personal life and professional path alike.
Along those paths, Strait has had to work for what she’s built. Just like she saw her father do for all those years, she’s worked hard for the success she’s achieved. “I started Strait Luxury with $500,” she recalls. She’s proud of the fact that none of her accomplishments came as a handout. She built it, not wanting help. She wanted it to be hers.
Through these experiences, her understanding of “home” continued to evolve and became even more refined. In 2017, Strait and her family built what she called their “forever dream house.”
But then, they left, moving closer to their children’s daily activities and embracing a life with more space outdoors, less time driving, and more opportunities for community. It meant an older, smaller house with no garage, an outside laundry room when they bought it, and half the space of the dream house. But ultimately, the people who inhabited it revealed the simple truth: it feels more like home than any other house ever did.
The kids didn’t care about size. They cared about being close to friends, activities, and each other. That shift changed how Strait approaches real estate; location is now essential for her. “You can’t change a location,” she says, “but you can change the house.” Living near what matters, especially when family life revolves around community, can transform a family’s quality of life.
Her brand name includes the word “luxury,” and Strait recognizes that it sometimes intimidates people who assume she only serves a certain price point. She regrets that misconception, because she’s pretty down-to-earth. She enjoys spending her solo time cooking and baking, reading, and doing puzzles. She also regrets the misunderstanding because she believes something people can often forget: that owning a home—any home—is a luxury. She lights up when she talks about first-time buyers, walking them through the front door, watching them look at a simple place like it’s a mansion.
Is there anything she wishes she could tell her younger self?
Perhaps unsurprisingly, Strait didn’t go for a slogan; she went for the truth. When you grow up without much money, she says, you carry the worry, even if your parents tried to protect you from it. She was focused on the present because she was trying to help her dad. And now, looking back, she’d tell that younger Tamara to trust God because he provides.
In the end, Strait said she hopes the takeaway isn’t the assumptions, and not some surface-level version of who she is and what
she’s about. She hopes people are left with the story of where she came from, why she works so hard, and that she built what she built with grit and intention, with a supportive family behind the scenes.
And maybe that’s the point of a good home, too. The feeling that home is when you’re surrounded by people who love you, work hard to provide for you, and simply enjoy being together.
straitluxury.com | 210-790-3277 23702 IH-10 W., Ste. 105, San Antonio
Lemon Creek Leon Springs
Tech
ARTICLE BY TANESHA DILLARD
Psychiatrist Yajaira Paparone says our devices can actually help improve our mental health—if we use the right apps in the right ways.
for Good
Apps may be here for good, but many apps are not good for us. Functionality like gamification and infinite scroll is often blamed for keeping us glued to our phones and negatively affecting our productivity, relationships, and overall well-being. But believe it or not, there are apps that can support our overall health. And as we discovered, some even get a psychiatrist’s stamp of approval.
Mental health professional Yajaira Paparone, MD, has been helping patients with all aspects of their mental health for years and has seen concerns change as technology and its use have evolved. “I read that social media works to steal our attention, and artificial intelligence is working to steal our attachment, which is crazy and scary,” she says. “But it's also a good reminder that, when used appropriately, there is benefit in modern electronics.”
Paparone explains, “I do psychotherapy with individuals, kids, and families. And I would say a lot of the work is on being present in managing the experience and the feelings that come with having full access to yourself.” Apps should never replace medical attention, she says, so it’s important to consult a health professional to address concerns and needs. Still, she believes that some apps can enhance the work done during the therapeutic hour.
For example, Paparone notes, “Insomnia is a big deal; a lot of times people have a hard time sleeping.” Insomnia is often a symptom of diverse health issues. “It can run with anxiety; it can run with depression," Paparone says. “It can run in the perimenopausal/menopausal cohort of women. So insomnia shows up a lot. And the longer it's gone on, the more challenging it is to treat. So mindfulness apps can be a helpful tool.”
There are many apps to choose from to meet your personal needs and preferences. Abide is a Christian meditation app that also offers sleep stories and devotional reading plans. The Insight Timer app offers goal and intention setting, as well as meditations. While both offer free and paid tiers, Insight Timer includes a significant amount of free content. CONTINUED
Fancy Fox Photography
“I READ THAT SOCIAL MEDIA WORKS TO STEAL OUR ATTENTION, AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IS WORKING TO STEAL OUR ATTACHMENT, WHICH IS CRAZY AND SCARY. BUT IT’S ALSO A GOOD REMINDER THAT, WHEN USED APPROPRIATELY, THERE IS BENEFIT IN MODERN ELECTRONICS.”
Fancy Fox Photography
“I've also heard good things from therapists in the field on the journaling apps,” Paparone shares. Abide and Insight Timer have journaling features, and Apple includes a Journal app on its devices. With full access to your phone (with robust privacy protections), the app will produce writing prompts based on recent activities, media, contacts, and places you’ve traveled. It also offers “state of mind” suggestions based on the moods and emotions you log. The Day One app offers similar features, and Daylio also provides activity-tracking options. Paparone says, “I think that's a great example of modern technology being used to augment health and not as a substitute.”
When considering apps for your well-being, you don’t have to restrict yourself to meditation and journaling. Paparone says she used the Ovia app throughout her pregnancies and found it gave her peace of mind. The app can also be used to track monthly cycles and manage perimenopause and menopause. “That would be just an example where there was so much information synthesized at my fingertips that I found useful because education can also be calming.”
Relationships can even be strengthened by apps designed for entirely different purposes. Paparone says her husband and daughter used the PictureThis app to identify plants. “He'd be able to name it, and then my daughter internalized that knowledge. She can tell you what different plants are that are native to this area.” Paparone affirms, “He used an app to enhance an experience.” Similarly, the Merlin Bird ID app lets you learn about birds in your region and identify them by sight and sound. Paparone says apps like these can enrich an already awesome experience, especially with kids.
Yet, she warns against children using apps and devices unsupervised. “As a child psychiatrist and as
a parent, there is nothing like the neural input that comes from being face to face,” Paparone cautions. “Kids need faces. So, a large caveat is no electronics, no apps, for children.” Putting it more bluntly: “Parents need to lock up their iPads, the way they lock up guns.”
Paparone encourages an honest assessment of your current app usage and a comparison with how you want to interact with them. Notably, the apps she mentioned require user engagement, whether through participating in an activity, sharing your thoughts, or learning more about your experience. These apps can support being present, fostering a broader sense of self and your environment. Engagement, rather than passivity, can be a marker of healthier app usage.
In fact, Paparone shares that her mom's group is using an app to read the Bible together. “There's a sense of community. That's the foundation,” she says. “The app remains a tool. It's not a substitute. Community and relationships come first.”
individualpsychiatry.com | 210-951-1676
“Beyond
Renee
Learning Is Out There
Let’s go discover why the best classrooms have no walls!
Spring Break is finally here! While the school bells have the week off, the quest for knowledge never takes a vacation. And just because the kids aren’t in school this week, doesn’t mean they have to be bored at home. There is a unique kind of magic that happens when a child moves from reading about gravity in a textbook to feeling the power of a robotic hand or descending into the cool, dark heart of the Texas Hill Country. So we’re venturing outside the traditional classroom to explore the world as our laboratory.
Interactive, hands-on learning isn’t just about memorizing facts; it’s about sparking “lightbulb moments" that stay with a child forever. When kids can touch, build, climb, and experiment, their curiosity takes the wheel, and learning goes into overdrive. These tactile experiences turn abstract concepts into tangible memories, fostering a deeper connection to science, history, and the environment.
Whether it’s the grit of a 1918 farmstead or the high-tech glow of a modern science lab, these nearby destinations offer more than just a day out—they offer a chance to see the world through a lens of wonder. So, pack the snacks, load up the car, and get ready to turn this Spring Break into a season of discovery!
ARTICLE BY DANIEL GERTSON
“Interactive, hands-on learning isn’t just about memorizing facts; it’s about sparking “lightbulb moments” that stay with a child forever. When kids can touch, build, climb, and experiment, their curiosity takes the wheel, and learning goes into overdrive.”
The DoSeum
Just a short drive into San Antonio, Texas’ premier kids' museum is a playground for the mind! Children can become secret agents in the Spy Academy, design gadgets in the Innovation Station, or tell any story they can think of at Imagine It! It’s a high-energy environment where interactive exhibits turn complex concepts like physics and literacy into pure, unadulterated fun.
thedoseum.org
Travel back to 1918 at this authentic working farm. Located at LBJ State Park, kids can watch costumed characters churn butter, shear sheep, and cook over wood-burning stoves. It’s an immersive, sensory-rich lesson in Texas heritage where every corner of the farm offers a hands-on glimpse into the grit and heart of settler life, and even the “chores" are fascinating!
Housed in a converted 1880s grist mill in Johnson City, this cutting-edge museum is a STEM lover’s dream. Kids can control a giant robotic hand, explore a bio-lab, or visit alien worlds in the 3D theater. Blending historic architecture with futuristic functionality, it inspires the next generation of scientists and engineers through high-tech exhibits that feel like magic.
Adventure runs deep at Texas’s largest cavern system! Families can trek 180 feet below the surface to see breathtaking limestone formations before conquering the Twisted Trails above ground. Between the hidden wonders of the Discovery Tour and the hands-on fun of mining for fossils, it’s a full day of exploration that can take you high in the sky and deep underground.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY
BY ANGELICA ROMO
LEPRECHAUN’S
Follow the rainbow to a savory treasure of beef and potatoes paired with a pint o’ gold.
Dust off your greenest attire! St. Patrick’s Day is here, and it’s time to celebrate the Irish way: with traditions, community, and the kind of comfort food meant for a crowded pub table. Rooted in centuries of working-class tradition, Irish cuisine is defined by hearty ingredients, simple preparation, and bold flavor. Food designed to fuel long days and spirited conversations.
This year, The Lion & Rose is serving up a lucky charm you can actually eat. Their Irish-inspired hand pie is a veritable treasure chest, stuffed with tender beef, potatoes, and veggies, all tucked inside a flaky, golden crust. It’s the ultimate “pub grub” designed to be held in one hand with a pint in the other.
Speaking of, why settle for a simple stout when you can find the Orange Pot of Gold? This festive cocktail gives the iconic Guinness a citrusy glow-up, blending those rich, smooth notes with a bright pop of orange. It’s a playful twist on Ireland’s most iconic export that even a leprechaun would run for.
Whether you’re Irish by blood or just for the afternoon, you’re sure to love Celtic comfort food. At home or at The Lion & Rose, they’re best enjoyed with good company, a glass raised, and a generous bit of luck. Sláinte! thelionandrose.com | 210-451-5466 | 23330 IH-10 W, San Antonio
IRISH BEEF HAND PIE
(Yield: Approximately 10 pies)
INGREDIENTS: Filling
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound Yukon gold potatoes, diced (¼ inch)
• 6 ounces yellow onion, diced
• 4 ounces carrots, diced
• 3 ounces frozen green peas
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 1½ teaspoons fresh rosemary, minced
• ¾ teaspoon fresh thyme, minced
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 ounces beef stock
Dough (or use your pie dough of choice)
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 4 ounces unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 eggs, separated
• ½ ounce water
DIRECTIONS:
1. To prepare the filling, heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onions, potatoes, and carrots, and sauté until slightly softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
2. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until fully browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Stir in rosemary, thyme, beef stock, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer briefly, then remove from heat and allow the filling to cool completely.
4. To make the dough, combine flour and salt, then cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
5. Add egg yolks and water, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
6. Knead lightly until fully combined. Divide into 10 equal balls and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. 7. Roll each dough ball into a 7-inch circle. Place approximately 3 oz of cooled filling onto one side of each circle. 8. Fold over, seal edges firmly, brush with egg wash, and cut a small vent on top.
9. Bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes, or until golden brown. 10. Serve warm, with HP sauce for a tasty pastie.
CONTINUED >
ORANGE POT O' GOLD:
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 ½ ounces Jumping Goat Coffee Liqueur
• ¾ ounce Crème de Cacao
• ¾ ounce Jameson Orange
• ½ ounce simple syrup
• 2 ounces Guinness
DIRECTIONS:
1. Mix all ingredients without ice until combined.
2. Add ice before pouring and strain into a prepared glass.
3. Garnish with a green sugar rim, orange-tinted foam, and gold glitter coffee beans.
- Stephen P.
MARCH 6TH
Vintage Market Days Spring Market
25665 Boerne Stage Rd.
San Antonio | 10:00 AM
Vintage Market Days returns with a three-day spring shopping experience featuring curated vintage finds, home décor, boutique clothing, handmade goods, and artisan treasures. Enjoy live music, local food, and a lively atmosphere perfect for friends, families, and date days. With new vendors daily, every visit offers something fresh. Visit vintagemarketdays.com/market/greater-san-antonio to learn more.
MARCH 6TH
Family Night Hike at The Cibolo
140 City Park Rd. | 6:30 PM
Explore The Cibolo after sunset on a guided Family Night Hike designed for curious kids and their families. Discover nocturnal plants and animals while enjoying an easy-paced walk perfect for short legs and attention spans. Hikes last about 90 minutes, with start times adjusted seasonally based on sunset. Visit cibolo.org/calendar/family-night-hike to get more details or register.
MARCH 7TH
40th Anniversary “Power of the Past” Show
102 City Park Rd. | 9:00 AM
Step back in time at this unique heritage event featuring antique tractors, engine demonstrations, and local craftsmanship. Kids will love seeing the vintage machinery in action while adults can appreciate the rich agricultural history of the Texas Hill Country. This anniversary show promises extra surprises for history buffs and families alike. Learn more at theagricultural.org
MARCH 9TH
Cibolo Family Days
140 City Park Rd. | 9:30 AM
Spend Spring Break together at the Cibolo Nature Center! Join the nature center for family days, where you can have fun, spend time outside together, and learn about nature as a family. Cost is $15/family per day, or bundle all three days for $30. Buy tickets or learn more at cibolo.org
MARCH 14TH
Boerne Market Days
Main Plaza | 10:00 AM
Main Plaza transforms into a sprawling open-air market featuring hundreds of vendors from across the state. From handmade jewelry and rustic home decor to local honey and gourmet snacks, there is something for every shopper. Enjoy live music from local bands as you browse through this long-standing community favorite. Check out the vendor list at boernemarketdays.com
MARCH 18TH
Coffee with Kylee
121 S. Main St. | 9:00 AM
Join the Boerne Chamber for Coffee with Kylee, a relaxed monthly gathering for members and prospective members. Ask questions, explore Chamber benefits, navigate the online portal, and make connections with Director of Membership Kylee Schuette. Think of it as open office hours, but with coffee provided. Find out more at boerne.org
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MARCH 19TH
Feast of St. Benedict Spaghetti Dinner
202 W. Kronkosky St. | 5:00 PM
The Benedictine Sisters of Boerne invite the community to their annual Feast of St. Benedict Spaghetti Dinner. Enjoy a classic meal while supporting the Sisters’ mission and ministries. Tickets are $20, with sponsorships available. Tickets may be purchased at The Sisters’ Attic, the Monastery office, or at boernebenedictines.org
The dinner sold out last year, so get your tickets early!
MARCH 21ST
Spring Equinox with Rudi and the Rudiments
325 Kreutzberg Rd. | 7:00 PM
Celebrate the Spring Equinox with an immersive underground concert by Rudi and the Rudiments. Set in Cave Without A Name’s Queen’s Throne Room, the performance blends acoustic music, world-beat rhythms, and candlelit darkness to reflect themes of renewal and balance, creating a powerful and unforgettable sensory experience. To purchase tickets, go to cavewithoutaname.com
MARCH 27TH
Boerne Chamber Golf Classic, Presented by Cavender Chevrolet
1 Resort Way | 9:00 AM
Tee off at the Boerne Chamber’s Annual Golf Classic, presented by Cavender Chevrolet. Held at Tapatio Springs Hill Country Resort, the tournament features a 9 a.m. shotgun start, player perks, food and drinks, and networking opportunities. An awards ceremony and happy hour follow the round. To learn more and sign up, go to the Chamber’s website at boerne.org
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CONTINUED
MARCH 28TH
TPWD Landowner Workshop Series
140 City Park Rd. | 8:30 AM
Texas Parks & Wildlife presents Part 1 of a three-part Landowner Workshop Series focused on land stewardship and conservation. Learn land ethics, management goals, and baseline inventory techniques through expert presentations, an interactive workbook, and a guided field tour led by TPWD biologists. Find out more details at cibolo.org
MARCH 28TH
KCFA Community Garage Sale
1307 River Rd. | 10:00 AM
If you’re looking for a treasure or need to clear out the clutter, this community-wide event is for you. Browse dozens of booths featuring antiques, crafts, and unique collectibles. Additionally, a secure shredding truck will be on-site from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. for donation-based document disposal. Find out how to participate at kcfa.org.
MARCH 28TH
Outdoor Family Fair
Main Plaza | 10:00 AM
This community-focused fair connects families with local services, organizations, and youth programs. The event features a variety of entertainment, including an Irish dance performance and interactive demonstrations. It is a great one-stop-shop to learn about everything our town has to offer for children and parents alike. For the full schedule, visit ci.boerne.tx.us
Joshua Creek Ranch
Texas Hill Country
“Every stay at Joshua Creek Ranch is excellent from start to finish. The lodging is always top notch—comfortable, spotless, and designed with a perfect blend of Texas charm and modern convenience. The food is consistently fantastic, with every meal tasting fresh, generous, and clearly prepared with care. The hunting is outstanding every time. The guides are true experts who know the land well, and the dogs are incredibly skilled, making each outing both fun and highly productive. Joshua Creek Ranch remains one of my favorite destinations, and I always look forward to returning. I strongly recommend it to anyone wanting great lodging, great food, and world-class hunting. It’s a place that delivers unforgettable experiences every single visit.”
