In my last column, I shared some experiences I had on a business trip and my first-ever visit to New Orleans, LA, particularly the French Quarter, where I took in historical sites like the Blacksmith … more

For over 47 years, I had managed to resist the temptation to visit New Orleans, LA, specifically the legendary French Quarter. In fact, I felt an odd sense of pride in this accomplishment, like … more

In our family, we’ve always tried to focus on the fun, lighthearted aspects of Halloween.  Imagine Charlie Brown and the Great Pumpkin (which always makes me cry a little), or Winnie the Pooh … more

Once a year, or so, I feel an uncanny need to atone for my sins against our household budget by holding a garage sale. When our home begins to look like it should be featured on the season finale of … more

Once every few decades, East Texas experiences a brief taste of early autumn weather. All East Texans know, though, that these few crisp days are simply a prank by Mother Nature, who’s hiding … more

This year, my wife and I made a surprise trip to New England so that I could accept an award from the National Society of Newspaper Columnists in Manchester, NH. I suspected that the prize would … more

Bring a friend and join the fun at the Dinner Tonight Healthy Cooking School, which will be presented by the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service on Thursday, September 21st from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at … more

It’s time for another installment in the series “I don’t like to pick on mistakes in published writing, but look at this mistake I found in published writing,” in which my disclaimer is … more

I don’t like to complain about typos. Mistakes happen. Even the best writers and editors can let them slip by. And lord knows I’ve made my share.  Nor do I like to point to typos and say, … more

The innocent look cats give us when they misbehave may melt our hearts, but like any pet, cats need to be properly trained. For both the first-time cat owner and a “kitty veteran,” Dr. Sarah … more