As an outdoor photographer I observe animals being themselves in hopes of acquiring something more interesting than the usual pose when they turn and look at you.

What do you get when you combine the unofficial end of summer, a passion for hunting, and a small town celebration? Hamilton’s Dove Festival of course! Every Labor Day weekend, roads get blocked, portable stages erected.

I had never been to a state park that shared a fenceline with a subdivision and am of the opinion that nature’s enjoyability increases proportionally with its distance from civilization.

Anyone who has shopped in the unique store operated by Ronnie and his wife, Trisha, would instantly know what he means. The little store by the highway on the south side of Brady is a marvel of "unique-ness."

The City of Brady calls itself the "Heart of Texas," based on its location, just a few miles from the geographical center of Texas. From what I observed during my thoroughly enjoyable "research" for this story, this little town deserves the label in a totally different sense: the history of the town and the accomplishments of its people epitomize the "heart" of Texas.

It all started at a card table. The year was 2002. Two restaurants had recently closed in Menard and the eight bridge players were bemoaning the loss of their favorite eateries.