www.hillcountrycurrent.

com HILL COUNTRY CURRENT December 2009 ★ 1

 submissions
To have your event included on
our monthly calendar, submit it
to events@hillcountrycurrent.
com or by fax to (830) 833-4246.
Events must be sent at least
14 days before the first of the
month. Include contact name,
telephone number, location of
event including address, and
Hill Country Current is a free, monthly publication ticket cost.
covering the Texas Hill Country.

Published the first week of every month in four newspapers

advertise
and distributed around the Hill Country
Country, reaching 13,000 readers.
Want to get your business or
organization seen? We can
Hill Country Current features the businesses unique to the Texas Hill Country.
help with that! Contact the
We’re here to help people find where to eat, sleep, and play. It’s a spotlight on Current’s ad sales staff today.
the Hill Country Lifestyle. The advertising deadline is
5 days before the first of the
month.
The Current is inserted every month into these Hill Country newspapers:
Horseshoe Bay Beacon, Blanco County News, The Llano News, and Johnson
City Record Courier. In addition to being inserted into 4 newspapers and cover photo
distributed throughout their coverage area, the Current is also available in
Lights Spectacular: Hill Country
Driftwood, Dripping Springs, Marble Falls, and Wimberley. Style at the Blanco County
Courthouse in Johnson City.

dining out Photo by Jon Lebkowsky (flickr.

com/photos/weblogsky).

Recommend your favorite Hill Country eateries! the staff

Do you have favorite eateries that you just can’t pass up while
Scott Wesner
traveling around the Texas Hill Country? We’re looking for unique, Publisher
outstanding, and down-right tasty restaurants and other food scott@hillcountrycurrent.com
destinations to feature in future issues of Hill Country Current.
Let us know where you chow down in the hills and why you love it. Charles Willgren
Editor
editor@hillcountrycurrent.com
Drop us a line: food@hillcountrycurrent.com (830) 833-4812

Jill Hunter

sightings! Ad Sales Director

jhunteradsales@gmail.com
(830) 833-4812

There’s a lot to see in the Hill Country. Show us! Francie Dix
From gorgeous views to friendly people, there are great photo Ad Sales
opportunities everywhere. Amazing view? Friends all dressed francie@wesnermedia.com
(830) 598-6740
up for a night out? Meet a celeb? Pull out that camera (or cell
phone!) and grab a shot for us. Let us know who’s in the photo, Amy Brolin
what’s going on, and where you are! Ad Sales
beaconads@nctv.com
Email your snaps: sightings@hillcountrycurrent.com (830) 598-6740

2 ★ December 2009 HILL COUNTRY CURRENT www.hillcountrycurrent.com

 inside
4 Johnson City
Lights Spectacular, Hill Country Style

6 Fredericksburg
Artisans at Rocky Hill
Features Kinetic Sculptures

6 Albert
New Owners of a Little Town
Called Albert, Texas

7 Hill Country
Calendar of Events

13 Wimberley
EmilyAnn Theatre’s Trail of Lights
Tradition Continues

14 Bandera
Silver Bells–Cowboy Style

16 Dripping Springs
The Magic of Christmas on
Mercer Street is Upon Us!

17 Wimberley
Winter’s Eve

17 Fredericksburg
Fredericksburg to Shine Brighter than Ever
This Holiday Season

18 San Marcos
Seven Directions Art Exhibit
Celebrating Native American Culture

www.hillcountrycurrent.com HILL COUNTRY CURRENT December 2009 ★ 3

johnson city
The year was 1990 and the
Garden Club ladies were at work.
“How can we make our little town
more festive during the holiday
season?” A few cups of tea and
these ladies had begun what is
now one of the most spectacular
holiday light shows in the coun-
try. With Norma Honeycutt at the
helm, the first “Lights Spectacular,
Hill Country Style” was underway.
Lights Spectacular continues to
receive nationwide recognition. In
2007, Les Thomas’ article in South-
ern Living magazine described
Johnson City’s Blanco County
Courthouse as “the centerpiece
of one of the biggest shows on
the trail ... shining brighter than
the star of Bethlehem.” Lights
Spectacular, Hill Country Style is a
charter member of the Hill Coun-
For additional events and lodg-
ing, call 830-868-7684 or visit
www.johnsoncitytexaschamber.
com.
For the entire Hill Country Light-
ing Trail, visit www.tex-fest.com/
regional/.
4 ★ December 2009
try Lighting Trail featuring lighted
communities throughout the Hill
Country.
This year marks the 20th anni-
versary of Lights Spectacular, Hill
Country Style. The entire town
is bathed in lights with 100,000
lights twinkling on the Blanco
County Courthouse while Peder-
nales Electric Coop’s Headquar-
ters on Avenue F boasts a lighted
forest of over 1 million lights.
Hayrides and carriage rides are
available throughout the season.
That very first year, a decision
was made to focus on the com-
munity and support local busi-
nesses and non-profits. Each
weekend, the Garden
Club fills the Courthouse
with Christmas orna-
ments and holiday crafts
for purchase. Food and
vendor booths con-
tinue to be offered to
local non-profits and
churches, with Lights
Spectacular remaining a
key community fundrais-
Living Nativity photo by Chelita Riley events.
HILL COUNTRY CURRENT
County Courthouse in Johnson City by Susan Kirchman
Kirchman Galleries - www.kirchmangallery.com
ing event. Merchants offer special operative makes the event even
treats and keep late store hours grander. Over 1 million lights turn
for the thousands of visitors and the trees around PEC’s headquar-
horse-drawn carriage rides are ters into a magical lit forest. One
available November 27 through expects elves to pop up behind
December 26 (except Christmas). the trees with a wink. The scene is
Down the street, the canopy of simply breathtaking. Throughout
lights at Pedernales Electric Co- the community, the city park is
transformed into a Winter Won-
derland and homes and business-
es come alive with traditional and
creative lighting on every corner
as they compete in the Lighting
Contest. Less than five minutes
north of Johnson City, a private
home presents a Hill Country
Lights Display that rivals that of
many communities.
Each weekend brings different
www.hillcountrycurrent.com

mark your
calendar–
Hill Country Christmas
Lights Display
Nightly Mondays through Thurs-
days from 6 PM to 10 PM, or Fri-
days through Sundays from 6 PM
to 11 PM. Free to drive through.
Over 300,000 lights this year.
One Silent Night Live Nativity on
December 11 & 12 from 6:30 PM
to 9:30 PM. This year there will be
even more live animals and the
live nativity will be better than
ever. 1685 N US Hwy 281. Call
Dexter Haynes at 830-868-0827 or
830-992-7646. www.hillcountry-
christmaslights.com.
Carriage Rides
Available through Christmas ev-
ery week (except Christmas day)
Fridays & Saturdays. 20 minute
rides in beautiful ornate carriages,
originating from the (southeast
corner) of the Courthouse Square.
Call for special pick up locations
or destinations, extended trips,
non-holiday and private rides, on
Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays,
& Sundays & after 9 PM on Fridays
& Saturdays. $6/person (age un-
der 3 free), minimum 4 adults per
pull-out.
December 4 & 5, 11 & 12
First United Methodist Church
Living Story of Christmas
A show for all ages and a great
part of anyone’s Christmas. 5
free 10-minute shows per night,
starting at 6 PM and running on
the hour and half hour; the last
show being at 8:30 PM. Bleacher
seating. Children are welcome to
pet the animals after each show.
Large display of nativity scenes
in the church activity center. Free
refreshments (cookies, hot choco-
late and coffee). 830-868-7414.
www.fumcjctx.org.
www.hillcountrycurrent.com
johnson city
December 5 & 6, 12 & 13, 19 & 20 enthusiasts share a meal with the Sauer-Beckmann German farm,
Johnson City Courthouse children and spend the afternoon a children’s nativity scene, and a
Ornaments Sale
Saturdays and Sundays from 6
with them to make their day spe-
cial. Event open to all. Free. Motor-
relaxing ride through the famed
LBJ Ranch to view displays and
PM to 9 PM through December cycle encouraged. Contact: Kevin decorations at the Texas White
20. The Courthouse lobby will Martin, 830-868-4007 or Lisa Lusk House and other treasured sites.
be open during the holiday on 830-868-7693. www.jcpigroast. Yuletide music adds even more
weekends and the Garden Club org/HillCountryToyRunAssoc enjoyment, At night, Johnson
will be selling Christmas orna- family members arrive and extend
ments, crafts, postcards, bird December 19 their holiday wishes, light a beau-
houses, bumper stickers and local 3rd Saturday Sale at Suzy Q’s tiful native cedar tree. Santa also
cookbooks. The ornaments are Join us at Suzy Q’s during our 3rd visits. For more information call
handmade by residents at our Saturday Sale, with 25% to 50% of 830-644-2420 or 830-868-7128 x
nursing home, and they are excel- select home decor and furniture. 245 or visit www.nps.gov/lyjo.
lent decorations for a very mod- Call Suzy Q’s for more informa-
est cost. Proceeds support local tion: 830-868-2919. December 26
non-profit organizations. Joycelyn www.suzyqs.net. Kirchman Gallery Reception
Carter, 830-868-7010. Kirchman Gallery hosts a recep-
December 20 tion the last Saturday of each
December 5, 12 & 19 40th Annual Christmas Tree month, at the Kirchman Gallery,
Lamplight Tours of Lighting and Evening Ranch 213 N. Nugent, Johnson City,
the LBJ Boyhood Home Tours across from the courthouse.
6 PM to 9 PM each evening. Na- 5 PM to 9 PM at the LBJ Ranch in Join us 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Visit www.
tional Park Rangers will provide Stonewall. Celebrating the Sea- KirchmanGallery.com for more
an open house and relive a 1920’s son with an open house at the information.
small town Christmas celebration
in this decked out historic home
located on Elm Street, one block
south of Hwy 290 (Main Street) in
Johnson City. Free. Complement-
ed by stunning lighting display
at the PEC, across the street.
830-868-7128, ext. 244. www.nps.
gov/lyjo.
December 5
Hill Country Toy Run
Celebrating our 26th year! Start-
ing at the Johnson City Court-
house at 9 a.m. (arrive early for
social time with coffee and do-
nuts), the Bikers Toy Run heads
west and swings through Freder-
icksburg, then up Hwy 16 north
through Llano to the small town
of Cherokee, picking up bikers
along the way. With Santa and a
sleigh full of wrapped presents
purchased through donations
and proceeds from the Johnson
City Pig Roast, the children of the
Cherokee Home will be wide-
eyed and smiling as Christmas joy
is delivered and the motorcycle
HILL COUNTRY CURRENT December 2009 ★ 5
 fredericksburg / albert
Artisans Features Kinetic Sculptures
Artisans at Rocky Hill, located in Fredericksburg, Texas, has represented
the serenely beautiful kinetic sculptures of Ralph Moresco for over 4 years.
Ralph’s unique and soothing copper wind spirals are each individually hand-
built using copper, stainless steel and brass. The kinetic movement of his
spirals is constant due to his fine craftsmanship, which is in tune with even
the gentlest of breezes.
When visiting Artisans, a trip to the lovely sanctuary of a courtyard is a
must! There you will find a lovely display of Ralph Moresco’s kinetic art. Var-
ied designs and patinas dance in the breeze and create mesmerizing memo-
ries for gallery visitors. Each copper wind spiral sits in a powder coated steel
post and installation in your own sanctuary is very simple. Ralph’s newest
spiral, though, is a hanging style and features either fish or blades. Custom
orders are available with your choice of available designs and patinas.
Artisans at Rocky Hill showcases the work of artisans and craftsmen from
the Texas Hill Country. Featured on a full-time basis are over 80 area arti-
sans and craftsmen whose talents include paintings in oil, pastel, acrylic and
watercolor, fine furnishings, wood turnings, pottery & ceramics, fused glass,
textiles, lighting, mantles, gourd art, mosaics, copper and iron sculpture,
mixed media, jewelry, and more.
Relocated in 2008 to 234 West Main St. in Uptown Fredericksburg, TX, Arti-
sans at Rocky Hill main focus is promoting education through demonstration
along with providing a venue to showcase on a permanent basis the finest of
talent in the Texas Hill Country. Regular business hours are Monday through
Saturday, 10:00 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. plus, some Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to
3:00 p.m. For more information, please call 830-990-8160 or visit their web-
site at www.artisansatrockyhill.com.
Artisans at Rocky Hill, 234 West Main St., Fredericksburg, Texas 78624

New Owners of
A Little Town Called
Albert, Texas
The Easley Family of Austin, Texas are the proud new owners of Albert Ice
House and the small town of Albert, Texas. Brandon Easley was unanimously
nominated by the Easley family as Town Manager. Brandon is a Ranch Real
Estate agent in Austin. They are excited to be there, and about the possibili-
ties of the future. There are plans in the near future to start renovation on
the 85 year old dancehall, with hopes to attract musicians and book special
events, such as weddings, and to have food service.
Brandon had visited Albert many times in the past few years, and finally
decided he had to have the place. Easley said, “It has such a draw on people.
I believe it is the family atmosphere and the flavor of the local people that
make it that way. My immediate goal is to get to know and understand the
locals, and for the tourist to realize what is special about these people. I want
to keep the family atmosphere and the impromptu cook outs, pot luck, jam
sessions, and the pickers that make this place so much fun.”
For the present time Albert Ice House is open on Friday evening, Saturdays
and Sundays. Come out and join the family of Albert. For more information,
call 512-663-2848.
Albert, Texas, on RR 1623. south of US 290
6 ★ December 2009 HILL COUNTRY CURRENT www.hillcountrycurrent.com

events calendar
BANDERA
Find out more about Bandera’s
events on page 14.
December 4
Annual Shoppers Jubilee
Begin the evening at 4:45 PM in front of
the Courthouse for the traditional light-
ing of the Courthouse Christmas tree,
performances by local church choirs, live
nativity, and the arrival of Santa and Mrs.
Claus by wagon. After the festivities at
the Courthouse enjoy luminaria lit Main
Street, carolers, and shopkeepers’ open
houses until 9 PM.
December 4-7
19th Annual Christmas
in the Hill Country
Christmas Open House at Country Ac-
cents Antiques located approximately 5
miles south of Bandera on Hwy 16. Hours
10:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
December 5
Holiday Parade
Downtown Bandera. 11:00 AM. Call 830-
796-3280 to enter.
December 5
Holiday Art Show and Sale
Exhibition of works in various media by
members of the Bandera County Artists
www.hillcountrycurrent.com
Association. Texarita’s, corner of Main
and Oak St. 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Call 830-
796-3953 or 830-796-3059 for additional
information.
December 5
A Camp Fire Christmas
Gather around the chuck wagon for
hot chocolate and cookies and enjoy
storytelling and Christmas carols. The
Bandera Riverside Players present a liv-
ing nativity. Bandera City Park along the
banks of the Medina River. 4:30 PM. Bring
your lawn chair. 830-796-4447.
December 12
Singing in the Saddle, Christmas
Caroling Bandera Style
Gather at the Longhorn Saloon for a
Christmas Caroling Trail Ride around
Bandera. Wagons available for non-rid-
ers. Chuck wagon waiting at the end of
the ride for hot chocolate and cookies.
3:00 PM.
December 12
Celebration of the Feast Day of Our
Lady of Guadalupe
Perfomance of Aztec dancers outside St.
Stanislaus Church at 6:00 PM followed
by a special Mariachi mass including the
dramatization of the appearance of the
Blesed Virgin Mary to Juan Diego at 7:00
PM.
HILL COUNTRY CURRENT
December 19-20
Bandera Downs Trade Days
Held at Old Bandera Downs Race Track.
Call 817-832-9936 for vendor informa-
tion.
December 23
Annual “Gifts of Love” Christmas Party
Presented by Dusty Britches and the
Rhythm Ranch Hands. Enjoy good food,
good friends and good music at the
Silver Dollar. 8:00 PM. Admission is a new
toy and/or 4 canned goods or nonperish-
able food items.
December 25
Annual Christmas Day Lunch
Sponsored by the Pipe Creek Presbyteri-
an Church. All are welcome to come and
enjoy. 830-510-6650.
December 31
New Years Eve Dance
Sponsored by Medina Lake Betterment
Association at Lakehills Civic Center.
BLANCO
December 5, 2009
The Starlight Symphony Orchestra
Concert will be held at Old Blanco
High School at 7:30 PM. For additional
info, on the Starlight Symphony 2009-
2010 Season, go to www.starlight-
symphony.org. You may also contact
Suzanne Warmack at 512-797-1178 or
Suzannewarmack@yahoo.com for more
information.
December 12, 2009
Christmas Market Days
9 AM to 4 PM. An annual tradition en-
joyed by locals and tourists alike! Christ-
mas shopping around the Square and at
the Holiday Market Day. Contact the Old
Blanco County Courthouse at 830-833-
2211 for more information.
BOERNE
December 1-6
Gingerbread House Exhibit
The Ye Kendall Inn will host and display
all the Gingerbread Houses that will be
participating in the Gingerbread Deco-
rating Contest for the Holiday in the Hill
Country Event.
December 4
12th Night Masquerade Ball
At Olde Towne from 6 PM to 9 PM. The
Mask Contest will be at 6:30 PM with the
12th Night Cake served at 7 PM Whoever
finds the hidden gemstone in their cake
is crowned Royalty.
December 4-5
Dickens on Main
Start your holidays out right with The
Dickens on Main celebration in Boerne!
There will be many fun festivities includ-
ing “Make it Snow” snow shows every
thirty minutes, a Gingerbread House
Contest at Ye Kendall Inn, a Pet Parade,
Santa at the Gazebo, stages throughout
with live entertainment and food and
beverage booths. Many stores will stay
open until 9 PM for holiday shopping!
December 5
Holiday in the Hill Country Pet Parade
Bring your pet to the Main Plaza from 1
PM to 3 PM in his or her favorite festive
Christmas outfit and they will be parad-
ed around the Gazebo and then judged
on their costumes and their talent!
December 5 & 12 & 19
Honey Creek State National Area
Guided Tour
Meet at Rust House at Guadalupe River
State Park at 9 AM for a guided interpre-
tive tour of Honey Creek State Natural
Area, emphasizing the history, geology,
flora, and fauna or the Natural Area.
Dates of events are subject to
change. Please confirm them
in advance by calling the
event’s phone number or local
chamber of commerce.
December 2009 ★ 7

BOERNE
December 5
Randolph Roadrunners Boerne
Christmas Walk
Walk, jog or run at your own pace. It is
open to all and families are encouraged
to participate. Children under the age
of 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
Everyone participating MUST register
and carry a Start Card and turn it in at
the finish. This event will be held regard-
less of weather conditions. Call Joanne
Forinash at 210-493-8543.
December 5
Weihnachts Fest Parade
Celebration of Boerne’s German heritage
with a fun and festive lighted night pa-
rade, starting at 6 PM and lots of festivi-
ties afterward.
December 5-6
Oma’s Christmas Fair
This annual Christmas Fair, held at the
Kendall County Fairgrounds, will feature
wonderful handmade crafts, German
food, and Santa will be there as well.
December 12
2nd Saturday Art & Wine
On Second Saturdays the galleries of
Boerne host joint openings from 5 PM
to 8 PM. Come out and enjoy a glass
of wine and the latest offerings on the
Boerne Art Scene.
December 12-13
Boerne Market Days
Enjoy arts and crafts, antiques, collect-
ibles, food and vendors from all over
Texas! Main Plaza. Call David at 830-249-
5530 or 210-844-8193. www.mainstreet-
inboerne.com.
December 19-20
Cowboy Christmas at
Enchanted Springs Ranch
Spend the weekend before Christmas at
Enchanted Springs Ranch! Cowboy Santa
and two reindeer, Rudolph and Comet,
will delight the kiddos. Enjoy Christmas
Music, the Decorated Old West Town,
a Tractor Wagon ride through the Wild
Animal Park, Pistol Packing Paula, Pony
Rides for the Kids, Woodrow-the Saddled
Longhorn Steer for kids, the Wild Bunch
gunfights, more kids activities, vendors,
food concessions. Take IH 10 West and
exit on Hwy 46. Turn left on Hwy 46. Go
2.5 miles. The ranch is on the right. Buy
your tickets at the gate. 830-249-8222.
www.enchantedspringsranch.com.
BRADY
December 5
Christmas in the Heart
This family event features a lighted trail
in Richards Park, photo opportunities
with Santa, carriage rides through the
8 ★ December 2009
park, and hot chocolate and hot cider
for your enjoyment! Please make plans
to join us as we light up the park! www.
bradytx.com.
BUDA
December 5 & 6
Budafest
The festival runs from 10 AM until 5
PM, Saturday and Sunday on the first
weekend in December. The festival
kicks off on Saturday morning at 10 AM
with a parade. You’ll see local celebri-
ties, marching bands, homemade floats
pulled on flatbed trailers behind pick-up
trucks, veterans groups – all following
the flag in a joyful procession down
Main Street. The greenbelt by the library
in downtown Buda fills up with more
that 125 artisans selling handcrafted
items of every type – jewelry, candles,
holiday decorations, salsas, woodcraft’s,
pottery, and soaps to name but a few.
Local churches and youth organizations
sell many different kinds of food – from
fajitas and tamales to baked potatoes
and turkey legs. The stage by the gazebo
showcases performance throughout
each day; country & pop singers, young
ballet dancers, puppet theater, choirs,
fiddlers, and guitarists. Children can visit
with Santa Claus and get their picture
taken with him. A full carnival with rides
and games sets up across the street at
the city park. There is ample street park-
ing as well as a shuttle bus from outlying
parking lots. www.budafest.org.
December 9-13, 17-20
Buda City of Lights
Winter Wonderland Trail of Lights in
Historic Stagecoach Park. Visit Buda’s
newest park for an enchanting holiday
experience. Santa, Christmas carolers,
and live music.
BURNET
December 4-6, 11-13
Main Street Bethlehem
First two weekends in December, from 6
PM to 9 PM Friday, Saturday and Sunday
evenings. An entire block of permanent
buildings transports you back to the
night of Christ’s Birth. A must-see for the
holidays, free admission & free refresh-
ments served (donations accepted).
Tour buses welcome. Hosted by the First
Baptist Church of Burnet, Texas. www.
FBCBurnet.org.
December 12
Christmas Festival on the Square
Celebrate Christmas on Burnet’s
Historic Square with seasonal activities
and the arrival of Santa. Follow the Trail
of Lights from the Train Depot through
the Historic Square, all the way to Ham-
ilton Creek Park which, as part of the Hill
Country Trail of Lights, is lighted with
HILL COUNTRY CURRENT
thousands of Christmas lights. Contact
the Burnet Chamber of Commerce for COPPERAS COVE
more information at 512.756.4297 or go December 5
visit www.burnetchamber.org. Evening Christmas Parade
6 PM to 7 PM. Downtown.
December 12
Christmas at Fort Croghan December 4-6
The cabins at Fort Croghan (703 Buchan- Krist Kindl Market
an Dr.) are decorated as they would have Downtown. 5 PM to 9 PM on Friday. 9 AM
been in the 1800’s, and are staffed by to 9 PM on Saturday. 9 AM to 3 PM on FR
families dressed in frontier attire. Visitors Sunday.
are welcomed with hot apple cider and
homemade cookies. December 5
Junior College HOT Bowl
2 PM at Bulldawg Stadium. The 9th an-
CANYON LAKE nual CHAMPS Heart of Texas Bowl.
December 10-12, 17-19
North Pole Village
6 PM to 9 PM. Enjoy a magical village DRIPPING SPRINGS
where children can write a letter to Santa December 5
at the Post Office, play with animals at Christmas on Mercer Street
the Petting Barn, adopt a free stuffed toy “It’s beginning to look a lot like Christ-
at Toy Land, make a craft at the School mas” in Downtown Dripping Springs as
House, get their face painted at the businesses and citizens
Elves House, get a free prepare for the 5th An-
book from the Library, nual Christmas on Mercer
decorate cookies at Street. 10 AM to 6 PM.
the bakery, go fishing Find out more about Hosted by the City of
at Frosty’s Ice House, Christmas on Mercer Dripping Springs and
sing at church, see Street on page 16. 4 Dripping Springs Lions
a live nativity, take a Club. Admission is free.
hay ride, shop at the An annual resource for
County Store and visit unique gifts with artistic
Santa. The North Pole originality and quality craftsmanship.
Village is a must see for your Hill Country Santa Claus will make an appearance in
Holiday plans. Admission cost is $3.00 his grand Clydesdale-drawn carriage.
each and children under 18 months are The day’s activities will lead up to the
free. Face painting and decorating cook- highlight of the hometown holiday
ies cost an additional $1.00 each. CRRC event, the annual Lighting of the Tree at
Recreation Center 125 Mabel Jones Dr. the Triangle at 6:15 PM. Christmas carol-
(below the dam). 830-964-2324. www. ers, community holiday lighting contest.
crrcofcayonlake.org. www.cityofdrippingsprings.com.
December 7-8
COMFORT Springs Family YMCA Holiday
Cookie Festival
December
Lucky Bat Contemporary Art presents the December 7 from 9 AM to noon, Decem-
rich wood sculptures of Kevin Rackley ber 8 from 4 PM to 7 PM. Bake a couple
(Center Point, TX), with the mysterious of batches of cookies or candy, donate
and unquantifiable subjects of painter them to the YMCA, and then come back
Dotti Brundrett (Kerrville, TX). Hwy 27 W and buy a whole variety of cookies and
& Water Street at Cypress Creek Landing. other specialty items for your own enjoy-
830-431-0769. www.nancymcgalliard. ment or to give away. Specialty items
com. include fudge, truffles, candies and lots
of other goodies. Proceeds will support
December 31 the Springs Family YMCA Partner of
CAYC New Year’s Eve Party Youth campaign, making it possible for
in Comfort Park everyone to be a part of the Y. 512-894-
Doors open at 7 PM with a buffet dinner 3309.
at 7:30 PM. Jody Jenkins Band from 9
PM to midnight. $100 per couple. Silent December 12
auction, reverse raffle $2,000 grand prize. 2009 Christmas in the Hills
Beer, wine, setups by donation. Reserved Tour of Homes
sponsor tables available with waitstaff. 10 AM to 5 PM. Benefits Dripping Springs
Community Library. Admission is $15;
210-363-8609 or 830-995-2330.
tickets available at Dripping Springs
Tell us about your Hill Country Holidays.
T
Email info@hillcountrycurrent.com with your story!
www.hillcountrycurrent.com
 Community Library, Print Plus, Hemi-
E sphere Marketplace. The delectable Tour
of Homes Bake Sale will be held at the
library this year, and will be expanded
to include savory casseroles, as well as
the traditional cookies and baked treats.
512-829-4537.
FREDERICKSBURG
December 4
First Friday Art Walk
Galleries are open until 8 PM. Fredericks-
burg’s art galleries will be focusing on
some aspect of exhibiting artists’ works,
which may include painting and fine
craft demonstrations, casual art talks, op-
portunities to meet artists, special show-
GS ings and entertainment. Participants
will experience the Fredericksburg art
scene up close and personal while enjoy-
ing fine wines from local wineries and
beyond all day long. Participating gal-
leries are Artisans at Rocky Hill, Charles
Beckendorf Gallery, Fredericksburg Art
Gallery, The Good Art Co., Photography
414, Rodeo Studio Gallery, Uptown Mar-
ket, Whistle Pik Galleries, Fredericksburg
Art Guild and InSight Gallery.
December 4
Community Christmas Parade
It’s amazing, it’s beautiful, it’s Christmas.
Enjoy lighted floats, trailers, animals, atvs,
and fire trucks. This event kicks off St.
Nikolas Markt weekend, Fredericksburg’s
celebration of the holidays.
December 4-5
St. Nikolaus Markt
Marktplatz. 4 PM to 10 PM on Friday, 10
AM to 9 PM on Saturday. St. Nikolaus
Markt features an expanded shopping
area, focusing on juried vendors offer-
ing high quality, unique merchandise
for home and gift giving. Entertainment
includes highlights of the Nutcracker Bal-
let, performed by local ballet students,
and the crowd-pleasing Sauerkrauts.
Holiday foods with a German flare will
tempt festival attendees throughout the
weekend. Holiday arts and crafts will be
available for children attending the festi-
val. 830-997-6523. fbgtxchamber.org.
December 4-6
Holy Ghost Lutheran Church Nativity
Enjoy this display of over 200 individually
owned creches from various cultures and
countries. Hours are Friday 6 PM to 9 PM,
Saturday 5 PM to 8 PM, and Sunday 9 AM
to 10 PM.
December 5
Chorale Christmas Concert
3 PM and 7:30 PM at St. Joseph’s Halle
(212 W. San Antonio). This chorale Christ-
mas concert features original and classic
choral and instrumental Christmas
music. This concert is free and the public
www.hillcountrycurrent.com
is welcome. Donations are encouraged.
830-997-6869. www.fredericksburgcho-
rale.com.
December 5
Rheingold Historic School
Host Open House
11 AM to 4 PM. Join the Friends of Gil-
lespie County Country Schools Trail
for their open house at the Rheingold
Historic School. Color coded maps of the
trail are available at the Visitor Center
at 302 E. Austin Street. www.historic-
schools.org.
December 5-7
Grand Re-Opening of the
George H.W. Bush Gallery of the
National Museum of the Pacific War
President George H.W. Bush will be the
guest of honor at the opening ceremo-
nies of the Grand Opening of newly
expanded National Museum of the
Pacific War, with the opening of a new
32,000 square foot George H.W. Bush
Gallery, as well as house the 16,000
square foot Center for Pacific War Stud-
ies. Activities for Saturday will include
the Pacific Combat Zone Reenactment at
10:30 AM, 1 PM and 3:30 PM. From 3 PM
to 5 PM, the Air Force Band of the West
will perform. On Sunday, World War II
aircraft will be on display at the Gillespie
County Airport and Pacific Combat Zone
Reenactment at 10:30 AM and 3:30 PM.
From 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM there will be a
dedication of the Memorial to the men
of the United States Submarine Service
in World War II, in honor of RADM Charles
D. Grojean, USN. Monday at 9:45 AM, pre-
cision parachute demonstration by the
Golden Knights, Army Parachute Team.
From 10 AM to 10:45 AM will be the
Grand Opening ceremonies and Ribbon
Cutting. Musical performances, films,
lectures and panel discussions will take
place throughout the day at a variety of
venues on the grounds. www.national-
museumpacificwar.org.
December 6
Weihnachten 5K Fun Run/Walk
2:30 PM. This timed 5K race raises money
for the Good Samaritan Center. Cost is
$20. www.fbgathleticclub.com.
December 7
Pearl Harbor Day Memorial Services
The Admiral Nimitz Foundation and the
National Museum of the Pacific War will
host a program in commemoration of
the anniversary of the attack on Pearl
Harbor. www.nimitz-musem.org.
December 10-13
Christmas at the Theater
1668 Highway 87 South. Join the
Fredericksburg Theater Company as
they celebrate the Christmas season.
Fast becoming a family must during
the holidays, “Christmas at the Theater”
HILL COUNTRY CURRENT
presents its third celebration of holiday
cheer. Performances are Thursday, Friday
and Saturday at 7:30pm and Sunday at
2:00pm. 888-669-7114. www.fredericks-
burgtheater.org.
December 11
Artisans 5th Annual Holiday
Celebration of Art
5 PM to 8 PM. Artisans hosts its 5th
Annual Celebration of Art and Holiday
Open House. Anne and Barry Bradley,
along with our artists, invite everyone
to Artisans for a wonderful evening of
art, food, libation and friendship. Most
resident artists will be in attendance and
anxious to meet and thank the many col-
lectors who have supported their work
and the gallery over the years. www.
artisansatrockyhill.com.
December 11
Gillespie County Historical Society’s
Preservation Weekend
Tannenbaum Ball
7 PM to 11:30 PM. Lady Bird Johnson
Park & Golf Course. Enjoy the holidays
at the Tannenbaum Ball “Partridge in a
Pear Tree”. Cocktails and a seated dinner,
dancing, silent and live auctions. Music
is provided by the Bill Smallwood Band.
Proceeds benefit the Pioneer Museum.
Tickets available through Dec. 6, cost is
$100 per person. 830-997-2835. www.
pioneermuseum.net.
December 11-12
Christmas Journey
6 PM to 8:30 PM. Bethany Lutheran
Church (110 W. Austin). Enjoy this drive-
through presentation of the Christmas
story in 9 scenes, all with live characters
and animals, magnificent backgrounds,
special lighting and effects, with Christ-
mas music filling the night air. Donations
gladly accepted and will benefit the Hill
Country Community Needs Council. 830-
997-2069. www.blcfbg.org.
December 11-12
Tin Star Ranch BBQ & Chili Cook-Off
Enter this sanctioned cook-off and cook
up your best BBQ or chili. Enjoy cowboy
action shooting, booths and activities
for the whole family. Food, drinks beer &
wine will be available for purchase. Ad-
mission into the event is $5 per car. Call
830-685-3464 or email tinstar@ctesc.net
for more information about food entry.
www.tinstarranch.com.
December 12
St. Joseph’s Halle Craft Show
9 AM to 5 PM. 212 W. San Antonio.
Need last minute Christmas gifts? Shop
for handmade arts and crafts, florals,
jewelry, stained glass, textiles and much
more. This event is free and the public is
welcome. 512-355-9041.
December 12
Preservation Weekend
Christmas Home Tour
This event is the annual tour of nine
“never before seen” unique Fredericks-
burg homes decorated for the holidays
during Preservation Weekend. Cost is
$25 per person. 830-997-2835. www.
pioneermuseum.net.
December 12
Candlelight Tour
5:30 PM to 8:30 PM. Tour the Pioneer
Museum grounds, Krieger-Geyer House,
Schandua House and the Tatsch House
during this evening holiday tour. Enjoy
period decor, music and light refresh-
ments. Cost is $15. 830-997-2835. www.
pioneermuseum.net.
December 18-20
Trade Days
Shop with over 350 vendors in one
location. Acres of antiques, collectables
and more. Relax in the Biergarten while
listening to live music. $3 parking fee is
good all three days. Hours are Friday and
Saturday 9 AM to 6 PM and Sunday 9 AM
to 4 PM. www.fredericksburgtradedays.
com.
December 26
Zweite Weihnachten Fest
2 PM to 5 PM. Zweite Weihnachten Fest,
a “Second Christmas”, is a traditional Ger-
man holiday party. Enjoy refreshments,
wine, decorations and German Christmas
items. This fest keeps alive the German
traditions of community gathering the
day after Christmas. Admission is free.
830-990-4621.
December 31
Memorial Volkssport Walk
St. Joseph’s Halle (212 W. San Antonio).
End 2009 with this Memorial Volkssport
Walk. The walk starts between noon and
2 PM and must finish by 5 PM. 979-478-
6203.
December 31
Midnight Volkssport Walk
St. Joseph’s Halle (212 W. San Antonio).
Begin 2010 with this Midnight Volkss-
port Walk. The evening begins with a
reception at 11 PM and the walk begins
at midnight and must finish by 3 AM.
979-478-6203.
GOLDTHWAITE
December 5
Christmas Parade of Lights
Downtown Goldthwaite.
December 5
Arts and Crafts Show
Held annually first Saturday in December
at the Mills County Civic Center.
calendar continues 4
December 2009 ★ 9

GRUENE
December 5
Breakfast with Santa
Join Santa for breakfast and crafts. Bring
a camera and tell Santa how good you’ve
been while you sit on his lap. Ride the
train with Buster, the Parks & Recreation
mascot! Pre-registration is required and
always sells out. 830-221-4370. $10 per
person.
December 5
Gruene Town Lighting
Enjoy the town lighting in the Gruene
Historic District at 6 PM on Saturday
when Cowboy Kringle rides into town
on horseback. Free admission. 830-629-
5077. www.GrueneTexas.com.
December 5
8th Annual Gruene Pony Express Ride
Gruene Historic District will receive a
Pony Express rider from the Heritage
Trail Riders Association of New Braunfels
at 10 AM. Relay riders carry a “Christmas
Greetings” message from the Governor
of Texas. A temporary Post Office will be
set up next to Gruene Outfitters in Gru-
ene to cancel stamps for mailing. Bring
your Christmas cards to have the stamps
cancelled with the 2009 commemorative
stamp representing Gruene.
December 5-6, 12-13, 19-20
Gruene Christmas Market Days
& Photos with Cowboy Kringle
Nearly 100 vendors in the Gruene Histor-
ic District offer Christmas gifts, uniquely
crafted items, and packaged Texas foods.
Perfect for everyone on your holiday
shopping list. Market hours are 10 AM to
5 PM. Free admission. Have your photo
taken with Cowboy Kringle. Pictures
will be taken on Saturday and Sunday.
Packages available. 830-832-1721. www.
gruenemarketdays.com.
December 5-6, 12-13, 19-20
Cowboy Kringle Kid’s Workshop
benefiting Communities In Schools
Bring the kids out to Gruene the first
three weekends in December to make
and wrap one-of-a-kind handcrafted
Christmas presents to give family mem-
bers. Parents will be able to safely leave
their children (5 and older) at the gift
center while they shop, eat, or enjoy the
sights of this beautiful historic district.
10 AM to 5 PM on Saturday and 12 PM
to 5 PM on Sunday. 830-620-4247. www.
cisnewbraunfels.org.
December 31
New Year’s Eve at Gruene Hall
with Delbert McClinton
A Gruene Hall favorite returns to help
ring in the New Year at Texas’ Oldest
Dance Hall. For information or to pur-
chase tickets, visit our web site at www.
gruenehall.com, call 830-629-5077 or toll
free from San Antonio 830-606-1601, or
10 ★ December 2009
stop by Gruene Hall in person. Advance
tickets are recommended.
HAMILTON
December 5
Christmas on the Square
Join in our holiday festivities at Jayson
Harris Pavillion! 254-386-5954.
December 5
Lighted Christmas Parade
7 PM. After you enjoy the festivities the
Christmas festival has to offer, come
down to the square and watch the
parade!
December 5-8
Hamilton Civic Theatre:
“Tuna Christmas”
7:30 PM. Tickets will be $8 for adults and
$4 for children under 12. Reservations
are recommended. 108 Ross St. 254-386-
3854.
HORSESHOE BAY
December 3
2nd Annual Holiday Open House
5 PM to 7 PM. “Open House” activities
with entertainment, refreshments, wine
tasting, and more. Then a Block Party
from 7 PM to 8:30 PM with live music and
a visit from Santa. Central HSB business
district on FM 2147 between Tall Texan
Building and Bottle Shop Building.
INGRAM
December 1-12
Christmas Belles
Comedy about a church Christmas
pageant that spins wildly out of control
as three feuding sisters try to reign in
the mayhem. Friday & Saturday 7:30 PM,
Sunday 2 PM. The Point Indoor Theatre,
Hill Country Arts Foundation, Hwy. 39,
Ingram. 830-367-5121, 800-459-HCAF.
JOHNSON CITY
December
20th Annual Lights Spectacular,
Hill Country Style
Blanco County Courthouse glows with
100,000+ lights for a full month. Also
featured is a one million light display
at the PEC headquarters on Avenue F,
Christmas in the Park and light displays
throughout the community.
See all the Johnson City events with the
Lights Spectacular article on page 5.
KERRVILLE
December 1-5
Annual Texas Furniture Makers Show
Statewide competition of the finest
custom furniture makers in Texas. Tues-
HILL COUNTRY CURRENT
day-Saturday 10 AM to 4 PM, Sunday 1-4
PM. Kerr Arts & Cultural Center, 228 Earl
Garrett. 830-895-2911.
December 3, 6
Rising Stars
A performance by the Symphony of the
Hills. Thursday 7:30 PM. Kathleen C. Cail-
loux Theater, 910 Main St. 830-896-9393.
December 5
Hill Country Chorals Christmas Concert
Christmas music from the classics to
modern. Saturday 4 PM. First Presbyte-
rian Church, 800 Jefferson St. 830-895-
3710.
December 6
18th Annual Kerrville School of Dance
White Christmas in the Hills
Kerrville School of Dance and San
Antonio Performing Arts Classical Ballet.
Saturday 7 PM. Cailloux Theater, 910
Main St. 830-896-9393.
December 6
The Best Christmas Present Ever
Children’s Christmas Musical. Sunday 6
PM. Trinity Baptist Church, 800 Jackson
Rd. 830-895-0114.
December 12
Supper with Santa
First annual Supper with Santa event for
ages 3 to 10 years. Join us for an evening
of fun with a candy cane hunt, dinner of
hotdogs and hamburgers, holiday crafts,
a movie and, of course, Santa. Kerrville
Schreiner Park, 2385 Bandera Hwy. 830-
257-7300.
December 12 & 13
Only Love
A Christmas Musical. Saturday and
Sunday 7 PM. Trinity Baptist Church, 800
Jackson Rd. 830-895-0114.
December 13
Hill Country Youth Orchestra
Christmas Concert
Christmas concert featuring classical and
holiday music, performed by the children
and young people of the Hill Country.
Sunday 3 PM. Cailloux Theater, 910 Main
Street. Street. 830-257-0809.
December 13
Candle Light Carols
A traditional Candlelight Christmas
Celebration of carols and readings to
celebrate the season, followed by a
reception in Tucker Hall. Sunday 7 PM.
St. Peters Episcopal Church, 956 Main St.
830-257-8162.
December 16
Holy Cross Children’s
Christmas Program
Holy Cross Lutheran Church & School’s
annual children’s Christmas program.
Wednesday 7 PM. Holy Cross Lutheran
Church, 204 Spence St. 830-257-4433.
December 17
Christmas Concert
Also a play by children. Thursday 7 PM.
Calvary Temple Church, 3000 Loop 534.
830-895-3000.
December 17 & 18, 21-23
Christmas Like It Used To Be
Step back in time to a vignette that looks
and feels like Grandma’s kitchen. Enjoy
a roaring fire in the fireplace, a cup of
mulled cider or our special “Bluebell-
flavored” eggnog, and our ever popular
homemade “Cookies by Shelley,” all while
taking in the sights and sounds of the
season as presented by various local
artisans and talents. Thursday-Friday 12
PM. Bank of the Hills, 1075 Junction Hwy.
830-895-2265.
December 20
Christmas Cantata
The combined choirs of The First United
Methodist Church will present a Christ-
mas Cantata. Sunday 8:30 AM & 11 AM.
First United Methodist Church, 321
Thompson Dr, 830-257-0800.
December 20
Messiah Sing
The annual Community Messiah Sing will
contain soloist and directors from vari-
ous churches. Sunday 3 PM. First United
Methodist Church, 321 Thompson Dr.
830-257-0800.
December 31
Turn Back The Clock
Celebrate New Year’s Eve in style with
music and dancing to the Sentimental
Journey Orchestra Fabulous big band
music, party favors, champagne toast at
midnight followed by deluxe midnight
breakfast buffet. Thursday 8 PM. Grand
Ballroom, Inn of the Hills Resort Hotel,
1001 Junction Hwy. 830-895-1535, 800-
292-5690.
KINGSLAND
December 5
Christmas tree lighting, photos with San-
ta, arts and crafts, 5K run/walk. Contact
the Kingsland Chamber of Commerce at
325-388-6211.
KYLE
December 2
Kyle’s 11th Annual Santa’s
Arrival & Tree Lighting Ceremony
On the front street between the Historic
Train Depot and Kyle City Hall. Santa
arrives at Kyle City Hall at 4:30 PM. The
tree, located on the south side of the
train depot, is lit at 6 PM. Join us for
free children’s activities, food vendors,
pictures with Santa (offered by Kyle H-
E-B PLUS, or take your own), and more!
See cityofkyle.com for the school choir
schedule.
www.hillcountrycurrent.com

LLANO
December
Starry, Starry Nights
We invite you to bring your family and
friends and come visit us in the Badu
Park along the banks of the beautiful
Llano River for an evening of sights and
sounds. The Christmas Park is open from
6 PM to 9 PM every evening through
December. Music of the season fills the
air while you stroll through arches of
lights, mesmerized by the charming and
unique lighted art displays along your
way. There is hot chocolate and popcorn
to warm your tummy and marshmallows
are available to toast by the open fire.
After your evening in the park, extend
your stroll over the Llano River Bridge
and enjoy the beautiful picture painted
on the water by the lights of the park!
Friday & Saturday Nights in December
Santa comes to visit with the young ones
(and the young at heart ones) every
Friday and Saturday night from 6 PM to
8 PM. He is tickled to his toes to pose for
pictures while he is here! Local live music
is always a treat at the park on Friday and
Saturday nights. A sampling of Llano’s
talent includes: December 4, FBC: Awa-
na, Praise Band & 4Way Stop. December
5, Methodist Church Praise Band. Decem-
ber 11, Cavalry Youth Choir. Ornament
decorating is available for kids of all ages
Friday and Saturday nights for $4.
December 5
Lighted Christmas Parade
Join us for one of the most unique pa-
rades you’ll ever see as we all turn out on
the Courthouse Square for the Lighted
Christmas Parade.
December 12
Snow Day in the Park
Grab your mittens and bundle up for fun,
fun, fun when we enjoy “Snow Day” in
the Park from 1 PM to 9 PM (or until the
snow melts). $5 admission.
www.hillcountrycurrent.com
LUCKENBACH
December 19
Luckenbach Christmas Ball
8 PM to midnight. Enjoy dancing under
the Christmas lights at the world famous
Luckenbach Dance Hall. 830-997-3224.
www.luckenbachtexas.com.
December 31
Luckenbach New Year’s Eve Dance
8 PM. Ring in the New Year at the world
famous Luckenbach Dance Hall. 830-
997-3224. www.luckenbachtexas.com.
NEW BRAUNFELS
December
Santa’s Ranch
The spectacular Christmas light park
with more than 1.5 million twinkling
lights on 12 acres, opened for its 7th
season. Located on I-35 between New
Braunfels and San Marcos, the park has
become a holiday destination for fami-
lies through out central TX. Open every
night through Jan. 2. Hours: 6-10 PM,
Sun-Thurs and 6-11 PM on Fri and Sat.
830-743-1293. www.santasranch.net.
December 3
Wassailfest
6 PM to 9 PM. Be part of the friendly
downtown competition for the Best
Wassail in New Braunfels! Stroll under
the twinkling holiday lights and sample
wassail from your favorite downtown
merchants! Enjoy music on the plaza and
be sure to pick up your annual collector’s
mug! www.nbtexas.org.
December 8
Tamale Time
Join Mark Segovia, renown local chef
and restaurateur, for a remarkable ex-
perience to enhance your culinary skill!
Make veggie, chicken and cheese tama-
les - as well as traditional pork. Child care
is available during this class at Kids Night
Out (additional $10)! $25 pre-registra-
HILL COUNTRY CURRENT
tion required. 830-221-4370. Landa Park
Recreation Center.
December 18
Sounds of Christmas
Everyone is invited to this annual Fey
Family tradition of Christmas music as
played on the Feys’ Wurlitzer Military
Band Organ (Carousel Organ) and Tang-
ley Calliope. 350 Lark Lane, New Braun-
fels. 830-625-0537.
MARBLE FALLS
December
Walkway of Lights
Nightly from 6 PM to 10 PM. We invite
you to arrive early to dine, shop and visit
the Walkway of Lights in Lakeside Park
located immediately west of the Hwy.
281 river bridge.
Let yourself imagine over one million
tiny, twinkling lights on 130 sculptures
reflecting on the sparkling waters of
beautiful Lake Marble Falls. As you stroll
leisurely on the shoreline, experience a
place where dreams are made. The spirit
of the entire community culminates dur-
ing the Winter Holiday Season in Marble
Falls, Texas, at the Walkway of Lights!
The self-guided winter wonderland walk
will dazzle you with the largest lighted
pole-tree boasting over 17,000 multi-col-
ored lights and a lighted tunnel touting
over 12,000 clear bulbs.
The expansion and continuation of the
Walkway of Lights is 100% dependent
on your generous donations. Admission
is free to the public but donations are
cheerfully and gratefully accepted.
Santa is available for pictures on Thurs-
day from 6 PM to 8 PM as well as Friday
and Saturday from 6 PM to 10 PM.
December 3
Meet on Main
Stroll through Marble Falls Historic Main
Street’s unique shops and galleries, while
enjoying free live entertainment and
in-store special sales and events. Local
growers, artists and crafters are present
at the events’ Homegrown & Handmade
Farmers Market.
INKS LAKE
December 5
Christmas Lighted Boat Parade
Once again, boats will meet at Inks Lake
Village Cove around 5:35 PM and the
Lighting of the ol’ Bridge and fireworks at
6:17 PM.
got an event? send it on: events@hillcountrycurrent.com
SAN MARCOS
Through January 7
Seven Directions Art Exhibit:
Celebrating Native American Culture
See page 18.
December 3-5
Sights and Sounds of Christmas
Nightly from 6 PM to 10 PM. $2 for 11
years old and up, $1 for ages 2 - 10, and
FREE for under 2 years. Shimmering with
thousands of twinkling lights, the banks
of the San Marcos River are the setting
for this annual Yuletide event. Come
hungry and treat your taste buds at the
Food Court. There is something for ev-
eryone, from big juicy burgers to freshly
made tacos, from classic sausage-on-a-
stick to melt-in-your-mouth funnel cake.
Three evenings of Hill Country holiday
fun include twirling under a towering
tree of layered lights, whirling on a clas-
sic carousel, choirs of angels on stage, a
visit to historic Bethlehem, sock-skating,
and lights, lights, lights everywhere! Sug-
arplum Theatre offers continous enter-
tainment for the lil’ ones in the family.
Watch Sahawe Indian Dancers and other
thrilling dance and musical performanc-
es. Pet a camel at Night in Old Bethlehem
and ride the Sights & Sounds Express
train. Children of all ages are invited
to Santa’s River House to whisper their
Christmas wishes in Santa’s ear.
SAN SABA
December 4
San Saba County Pecan Food Show to
be held at the Courthouse. All entries
may be brought between 7:30 AM and 9
AM on that day. Contact Carol or Carolyn
325-372-5416.
December 5
Pecan Capital Trade Days
On the Courthouse Square from 8 AM
until 2 PM. This will be last Pecan Capital
Trade Day until the 1st Saturday in March
2010.
December 12
Christmas on the Square
Children can have their pictures taken
with Santa and Mrs. Claus while families
take advantage of the downtown mer-
chants’ extended hours (until 9 PM) and
complete their last minute shopping, all
the while enjoying vendors, live music
and drawings, and San Saba’s annual
lighted Christmas Parade. Come and
enjoy a beautiful Nativity Scene on the
Courthouse Square while the Howard
Payne Jazz Ensemble performs. 325-372-
5141.
calendar continues 4
December 2009 ★ 11
 December 12
Christmas Breakfast with Santa
9 AM to 11 AM at the Father’s House
Fellowship Hall. Free of charge. Pictures
with Santa, activities, and goodies to eat
and drink.
December 12
Lighted Christmas Parade
The parade includes individuals, busi-
nesses, non-profit organizations, mo-
torized vehicles and much more. The
parade will begin at 6 PM at 8th and
Wallace Streets, across from the San Saba
High School. Take pictures with Santa
and Mrs. Claus.
SATTLER
December 12
31st Annual Canyon Lake
Christmas Parade
Enjoy the Centex Wing flyover, floats,
bands and Alzafar Shrine entries, ending
with Santa’s arrival. Begins at 11 AM. FM
2673.
STONEWALL
December 20
40th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting
and Evening Ranch Tours
5 PM to 9 PM at the LBJ Ranch in Stone-
wall. Celebrating the Season with an
open house at the Sauer-Beckmann
German farm, a children’s nativity scene,
and a relaxing ride through the famed
LBJ Ranch to view displays and decora-
tions at the Texas White House and other
treasured sites. Yuletide music adds even
more enjoyment, At night, Johnson fam-
ily members arrive and extend their holi-
day wishes, light a beautiful native cedar
tree. Santa also visits. For more informa-
tion call 830-644-2420 or 830-868-7128 x
245 or visit www.nps.gov/lyjo.
December 31
Stonewall New Year’s Eve Dance
9 PM to 1 AM. Ring in the New Year in
Stonewall. 830-644-2735.
WIMBERLEY
December
EmilyAnn Theater Trail of Lights
Now in the 12th year, the Trail of Lights
at the EmilyAnn Theatre has become
a Wimberley tradition. Open nightly
(weather permitting) from 6 PM to 9 PM
(until 10 PM on Fridays and Saturdays).
Free, but donations are accepted. Busi-
nesses, individuals and the Wimberley
community volunteer and decorate
glittering holiday displays drawing visi-
tors from all over Central Texas. 512-847-
6969. www.emilyann.org.
Find out more about EmilyAnn Theater’s
Trail of Lights on the next page.
12 ★ December 2009 HILL COUNTRY CURRENT
December 4-6
Wimberley Community Chorus
Holiday Concert
Chapel in the Hills, RR 12. The Wimberley
Community Chorus brings holiday cheer
with its annual winter concert. Get in the
mood with this year’s concert, “Christmas
in Harmony.” Friday and Saturday perfor-
mances at 7 PM, Sunday performance at
3 PM. Performances are free, but dona-
tions are always welcome.
December 5
Wimberley Market Day
Lions Field, FM 2325. The monthly flea
market held the first Saturday in March
through December. Sponsored by the
Wimberley Lions Club with more than
400 vendors.
December 5
Winter’s Eve Festival
Get ready for an enchanting evening
among the stars as you stroll through
over 90 shops in the downtown Wim-
berley area. Stores filled with beautiful
and special holiday gifts, gourmet food
booths downtown, Enjoy the local fine
foods that are represented from around
our local community. Santa will be mak-
ing an appearance in the beautifully
decorated Wimberley Square at 7 PM.
Live music, strolling carolers. Wine, beer,
and hot chocolate.
Read about Winter’s Eve on page 17.
December 6
Starlight Symphony Holiday Concert
The Holiday Concert Series will feature
“A Christmas Festival” by Leroy Anderson
and Arcangelo Corelli’s “Christmas Con-
certo” along with many holiday favorites,
including a sing-along. As always, these
concerts are free but donations are ap-
preciated. St. Stephens Episcopal Church.
512-797-1178.
December 20
Starlight Symphony
Sing Along Messiah
Join the Starlight Symphony Orchestra
for a special holiday performance of
Handel’s Messiah. You are invited to sing
along! Enjoy the timeless music with the
members of the Starlight Symphony and
become a part of this amazing master-
work! One performance only. 512-797-
1178.
WARING
December 5
17th Annual Texas Hill Country
Chili Cookoff
Waring VFD Hall from noon to 4 PM.
CASI Sanctioned Chili Cookoff. Jackpot
Beans, Jackpot Green Chili, Christmas
Decorating Contest. Cooks’ Party Friday
Night. Soup-off Saturday Night. Benefits
the Waring VFD & other local charities.
Public welcome. Shirley at 830-537-4381.
www.hillcountrycurrent.com
 wimberley

Tucked up on a hillside in Wimberley is a holiday gem--The

EmilyAnn Theatre & Gardens’ 12th Annual Trail of Lights. Here
you’ll find more than 7 acres filled with lighted displays created
by families, schools, community organizations and businesses.
A visit to the Trail of Lights makes for an unforgettable family
excursion—from a life-sized dinosaur to the beautiful hilltop
EmilyAnn Tree, the magical displays offer something for ev-
eryone. An old-fashioned Yule Log burns nightly where young
and old alike can roast hot dogs and marshmallows and enjoy
family-friendly entertainment. Little ones will enjoy riding the
Jingle Bell Express (Friday & Saturday nights only; $2.00 sug-
gested donation), playing in the musical garden, and visiting
Santa’s post office. Santa, himself, will be in residence to hear
those special wishes from December 11th – December 23rd.
Admission to the Trail of Lights is free, but the EmilyAnn
gratefully accepts donations to help pay for the electric bill and
other costs of the event. The Trail will be open nightly (weather
permitting) through December 31st from 6:00 – 9:00 Sunday
– Thursday and 6:00 – 10:00 Friday and Saturday.
Special events include a benefit for Brown Santa on Dec. 6th,
(please bring a new unwrapped toy to donate), the lighting
of the menorah for Hanukkah on Dec. 11th and a Los Posadas
celebration on Dec. 20th. Live entertainment is featured most
evenings. Please check the EmilyAnn’s Web site www.emilyann.
org for a current list of entertainment and events.
The Trail of Lights is a walking path. Golf cart rides up to the
Yule Log are available. Visitors who need special assistance
should contact the EmilyAnn at 512-847-6969. Please note--
dogs, alcohol, and firearms are not allowed at the Trail of Lights.
The EmilyAnn is a non-profit, outdoor theatre located on 12
acres at 1101 FM 2325 in Wimberley, TX. In addition to the
Trail of Lights, the EmilyAnn offers indoor studio theatre pro-
ductions, outdoor musicals, a spring Butterfly Festival and
Shakespeare Under the Stars. Visitors are welcome daily to walk
through our gardens, enjoy our life-size chess/checker board
and interactive musical garden, visit the hilltop Veterans Memo-
rial Plaza, eat a picnic lunch or spend time bird and butterfly
watching. For a more information about the EmilyAnn visit
www.emilyann.org.

Top: Roast a hot dog and listen to live entertainment at the EmilyAnn’s old
fashioned Yule Log. Middle: Come visit Santa and Mrs. Claus, Dec. 11-23.
Bottom: You can’t miss this life-sized dinosaur, built in memory of Joe
Saunders. The dinosaur debuted at the 2008 Trail and will be joined by a
life-sized Pterosaur.

www.hillcountrycurrent.com HILL COUNTRY CURRENT December 2009 ★ 13

bandera
BY STACY LALANNE
Christmas means so many things
to so many people, but the one
thing you will find when you talk
to almost anyone about Christmas
is ... it’s all about the memories.
One fond memory most people
have is of the wonderful music
associated with it. Well, this year
should be no different. Bandera,
Quick Look the Cowboy Capital of the World,
offers a month filled with musical
For expanded calendar listings,
see Bandera on page 5. memories cowboy style and fun
and unique shopping experiences
December 4 as well.
Annual Shoppers Jubilee
It all starts on Friday evening, De-
December 4-7 cember 4, around 4:30 pm on the
19th Annual Christmas Courthouse Lawn where you will
in the Hill Country
enjoy the sweet sound of children’s
December 5 voices as choirs bring us their ver-
Holiday Parade sion of what makes Christmas spe-
December 5 cial. Local church choirs will offer
Holiday Art Show and Sale their Christmas message in song
and you can settle in for the arrival
December 5
A Camp Fire Christmas of Mary and Joseph and the Living
Nativity provided by the students
December 12 of Pipe Creek Christian School.
Singing in the Saddle,
Christmas Caroling Bandera Style David Busby, Pastor of Pipe Creek
Community Church, will be nar-
December 12 rating the Christmas Story to the
Celebration of the Feast Day
of Our Lady of Guadalupe backdrop of some beautifully
sung, traditional Christmas carols.
December 19-20 The celebration on the lawn will
Bandera Downs Trade Days
come to a close with a visit from
December 23 Santa and Mrs. Clause, who are
Annual “Gifts of Love” Christmas Party making a special visit to Bandera
December 25 County to visit all of the kids on his
Annual Christmas Day Lunch “Nice” list. Bandera Merchants will
open their doors until 9:00 p.m.
December 31
New Years Eve Dance and welcome shoppers for the
29th Annual Shopper’s Jubilee.
14 ★ December 2009 HILL COUNTRY CURRENT
Bandera truly has some unique
and fascinating shopping oppor-
tunities not available in crowded
city malls. Not only is the shop-
ping great, but Christmas carolers
will accompany shoppers as they
mosey around Main Street look-
ing in the many shops that will be
open late for this festive occasion.
Carolers, musicians, and many
of our Cowboy singers from the
Frontier Times Museum’s Cowboys
on Main program will dazzle shop-
pers in the stores and on the street
corners.
Bandera’s musical celebration
of Christmas continues Saturday
morning, December 5, at 11am,
when the Chamber of Commerce
is hosting the yearly Christmas Pa-
rade. Bring your lawn chair and
watch as the many beautifully
decorated floats go by; each float
a representation of how we cele-
brate Christmas, Bandera style. Fi-
nally, bring this musical weekend
to a close with the Cowboy Camp-
fire in the City Park. Join us at 5:00
pm in the City Park on the Medina
River where you will see amazing
displays of Christmas lights, which
grow more and more beautiful as
the sun goes down. You will be
welcomed by the soothing vocal
styling of the Kemp Family Sing-
ers, after which local celebrity Lee
Haile will regale you with some
wonderful Christmas stories. There
is no one around who will make
the stories come to life quite like
Lee can. The Kemp family singers
will continue the musical evening
by bringing us some Old Time
Christmas songs, like the ones you
probably remember singing when
you were a child. The Christmas
stories will continue with Pastor
Cliff Hargrove from Western Heri-
tage Cowboy Church, who is also a
renowned storyteller. This Christ-
mas evening celebration would
not be complete without the Ban-
dera Riverside Players presenting
their interpretation of the Christ-
mas Story. They will display the
precious story of Christmas that
brings cause for all of this musical
celebration. This Living Nativity is
beautifully spotlighted against the
banks of the Medina River. Bring
your lawn chair and a hanky; there
is rarely a dry eye there!
The following weekend of De-
cember 12, the Longhorn Saloon
will feature the annual Christmas
Singing in the Saddle event. This
is Christmas, Bandera style. Bring
your horse and join the ride from
the Longhorn Saloon for Christ-
mas caroling down Main Street.
The singers will visit both the Ce-
dar Hills Nursing Home and Ban-
dera Rehabilitation and Health-
care Center. A chuck wagon with
hot chocolate and cookies will be
awaiting the participants at the
end of the ride. Following the ride,
stick around for the 6:00 p.m. Cel-
ebration of the Feast Day of Our
Lady of Guadalupe at St. Stanislaus
Catholic Church. The event will in-
clude Aztec Dancers followed by a
special Mariachi Mass.
Saturday, December 19, visit
www.hillcountrycurrent.com
Bandera for the last performance
of the year by the Frontier Times
Museum’s Cowboys on Main Liv-
ing History Project. Singers and
trick ropers will perform between
1:00 pm and 4:00 pm.
On Wednesday December 23, join
the community at the Annual “Gifts
of Love” Christmas Party presented
by Dusty Britches and the Rhythm
Ranch Hands at Arkey Blue’s Silver
Dollar Saloon. Admission is a new
Merry Christmas, from the Bandera Business Association!
www.hillcountrycurrent.com
toy and/or 4 canned goods or non
perishable food items.
Music is the language which
reaches across all boundaries, and
touches all people, no matter what
age. Let Bandera’s Cowboy Christ-
mas be in your musical memory
for years to come. Visit Bandera,
Shop Bandera and take home
some Christmas memories – Cow-
boy Style.
HILL COUNTRY CURRENT December 2009 ★ 15
 The Magic of Christmas on day and into the evening for the annual Christ-
mas Tree and Town Lighting,” Seay said.
Mercer Street is Upon Us!
Christmas on Mercer Street Offering a great opportunity for some holiday
shopping, Christmas on Mercer Street will
Set For December 5
once again provide an annual resource for
unique gifts with artistic originality and quality
“It’s beginning to look a lot like Christ-
craftsmanship. Last year more than 90 ven-
mas” in Downtown Dripping Springs
dors participated in the event and the festival
as businesses and citizens prepare for the
continues to grow. Don’t miss out on a great
5th Annual Christmas on Mercer Street. The
opportunity to Buy Local!
day-long festival has been set for Saturday,
December 5 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and will be
Helping bring the spirit of Christmas to town,
hosted by the City of Dripping Springs and Drip-
Santa Claus will make an appearance in his
ping Springs Lions Club. Admission is free to the
grand Clydesdale-drawn carriage. The day’s
public.
activities will lead up to the highlight of the
hometown holiday event, the annual Lighting
As in years past, the street will be closed to motor-
of the Tree. This special tree lighting ceremony
ized traffic and filled with the magical sights and
will be held at the Triangle at 6:15
sounds of an old-fashioned Christmas. With arts and
p.m. See the brilliant illumination
crafts booths, Santa Sleigh Rides, children’s activi-
of the spectacular Christmas
ties, delicious food and drinks, free music and holiday
tree and downtown
entertainment, there is no place better than the charm-
area as it is trans-
ing surroundings on Mercer Street around
formed into
the holidays.
a winter
wonderland.
City of Dripping Springs
Parks Director Ashley
Seay said the 2009 event
will be one of the best
holiday
festivities
yet. “This year
we will have a
trackless train ride,
pony rides, an entertainment
stage, mouth-watering food selec-
tions, Christmas caroling and
activities to keep people busy all
16 ★ December 2009 HILL COUNTRY CURRENT www.hillcountrycurrent.com

The Wimberley Merchants As-
sociation would like to invite you
to the Winter’s Eve Festival on the
Wimberley Square on Saturday,
December 5, 2009. Get ready for
an enchanting evening among the
stars as you stroll through over 90
shops in the downtown Wimberley
area. The stores are filled to the
brim with so many beautiful and spe-
cial holiday gifts that you will surely
enjoy. What you will find in Wimber-
ley is an array of products that you
will not find just anywhere.
As you stroll through the down
town, stop by the gourmet food
booths that will be serving a variety
of foods that will make your palette
wimberley / fredericksburg
dance with joy. Enjoy the local fine
foods that are represented from
around our local community.
The Wimberley Square will delight
your senses with all the beautiful
decorations and lights that grace this
historic town. You will surely feel like
you have stepped into Santa’s Work-
shop. And speaking of Santa, he will
be making his appearance around
7:00 pm on the Wimberley Square.
As you make your way from shop
to shop you will notice the six hours
of live music that will fill the air with
that festive feeling of the Christmas
holidays. You might even pass the
strolling carolers along the way.
Stop by the fire pits to warm up
and enjoy a hot cup of chocolate or
something a bit more tantalizing
such as wine and beer as you make
you way by the food court.
The Wimberley Merchants Associa-
tion hopes that you will join us for
this very special evening. It will be
an evening to remember while tak-
ing in the holiday sights and sounds
of the season in the Texas Hill Coun-
try style!

Fredericksburg to Shine Brighter than Ever This Holiday Season

The holiday season in this Hill
Country town will shine brighter
than ever this year. The center-
piece of new holiday decorations
in downtown Fredericksburg,
founded in 1846 by 120 settlers
from Germany, is a 26 foot tall
Christmas pyramid, crafted in
Germany for Erzgebirge Palace,
headquartered in Mainz, Germany.
“Fredericksburg is just a wonder-
ful place to experience a home
town Christmas, and we wanted to
emphasize our German heritage
with our new Christmas pyramid
and other holiday decorations,”
noted Jeryl Hoover, Mayor of Fred-
ericksburg. “The Germans have
provided so much that is associat-
ed with Christmas – the Christmas
tree, nutcrackers, great carols and
the Christmas pyramid.”
Christmas pyramids had their
roots in the Erzgebirge (Ore
Mountains), a mining region in the
eastern part of Germany. When
the mining industry lost impor-
tance, the people of the region
decided to use their woodworking
skills to start a new trade. Today,
the skilled craftsmen of the Erzge-
birge manufacture internationally
collected Christmas pyramids, nut-
crackers, smokers, candle arches,
music boxes and many other
wooden figurines.
Traditional Christmas pyramids
are wooden carousel-like structures with a wonderful Old World holiday Gillespie County, please call 1-888-
that have several levels depicting experience this year,” Hoover con- 997-3600 or email visitorinfo@fbgtx.
Christmas motifs, such as angels, cluded. org. To book accommodations for
nutcrackers and manger scenes. The To request a free 2009 holiday your holiday getaway to Fredericks-
rotating motion of the pyramids is guide, with a listing of holiday events burg or to view the complete holiday
traditionally achieved by the ris- from Thanksgiving weekend through calendar of events on-line, visit www.
ing heat from candles spinning the New Year’s Eve in Fredericksburg and FredTexLodging.com.
propeller at the top of the pyramid.
Christmas pyramids are popular in
homes across Germany and now in
many parts of the United States.
Today In many cities and towns in
Germany, large-scale outdoor Christ-
mas pyramids powered by electricity
are located at the Marktplatz or other
locations associated with Christmas
celebrations. Nodding to its German
heritage, Fredericksburg’s 26 foot tall
Christmas pyramid will be located at
the Marktplatz, or the town square at
the heart of town on Main Street.
As has been the tradition for many
years, all of the buildings along Main
Street in Fredericksburg’s historic
district will be outlined with white
lights, and new five foot Christmas
wreaths will adorn utility poles along
Main Street.
The Christmas pyramid and City
Christmas Tree at the Marktplatz in
Fredericksburg will be illuminated
with a short ceremony on Friday,
November 27, at 7:00 p.m. The holi-
day decorations will extend through
Epiphany or Wednesday, January 6th.
“We hope to provide our residents
and many visitors to Fredericksburg

www.hillcountrycurrent.com HILL COUNTRY CURRENT December 2009 ★ 17

san marcos
Walkers’ Gallery Hosts
Native American Culture
Art Exhibit
The spirit of Native American
culture comes alive in “Seven
Directions” through the work
of twelve distinguished, award
winning American Indian artists,
showing from November through
December at The Walkers’ Gallery
in the San Marcos Activity Center
on 501 E. Hopkins, San Marcos,
Texas. The featured artist is Don-
ald Vann, “One of the best known
Indian artists working in this cen-
tury,” according to the Cherokee
National Historical Society.
To celebrate the exhibit’s open-
ing, the artists will attend a re-
ception in their honor on Friday,
November 13 from 6:00 PM to
9:00 PM at the gallery. The public
18 ★ December 2009
is invited to enjoy Native Ameri-
can performances, a silent auction
with art donated by the artists,
Native food, flute performances,
Native poets, and a reception-
night-only exhibit of original
pieces. The reception and exhibit
are free and open to the public.
“In the twelve years of Walkers’
Gallery exhibits, ‘Seven Directions’
will be one of the most extraordi-
nary and professional ever. We
are very excited to be presenting
the work of these nationally rec-
ognized Native American artists,”
says curator Linda Kelsey-Jones,
who is also president of the San
Marcos Area Arts Council, one of
the exhibit sponsors. “The variety
HILL COUNTRY CURRENT
WHAT: Seven Directions Art
Exhibit: Celebrating Native
of media and styles represented– American Culture
–from painting, printmaking and
textile sculpture, to beadwork, WHEN: Exhibit through
clothing and artifact reproduc- January 7, 2010.
tion––will make this a vibrant and
inspiring celebration of Native WHERE : The Walkers’ Gallery,
American culture.”
The exhibit was developed by San Marcos Activity Center, 501
local nonprofit Indigenous Cul- E. Hopkins, San Marcos, TX
tures Institute to celebrate Native
American heritage and to raise WHO: Featuring Donald Vann,
awareness about the myriad of “One of the best known Indian
contributions made by indig- artists working in this century,”
enous people.
and eleven award winning
“American Indians from the top
of the Western Hemisphere to the Native American artists.
tip of South America have made
incredible contributions to soci- www.IndigenousCultures.org
ety,” says Dr. Mario Garza, board
chair of the institute. “Our ex-
hibit’s artists capture the beauty Indigenous Cultures Institute,
and magnificence of the cultures the San Marcos Area Arts Council
of several tribal groups, and also and the City of San Marcos, and
reflect our unique and inspiring funded by the San Marcos Minor-
world view as American Indians.” ity Tourism Development Com-
This exhibit is sponsored by mission.
About the Artists
Donald Vann creates images designed to make people see with their hearts.
He was honored by the Smithsonian Institution’s Museum of the American Indian
with their top painting award for watercolor medium. Bonnie Woodie’s wearable
art designs are a blend of Native Indian and high fashion couture and are best
known for their elaborate appliqué and beadwork. Joseph Skywolf’s beadwork
and artifact reproductions have received worldwide recognition and have been
displayed at the Smithsonian Institution and the Museums of Natural Science in
London, Scotland, Venezuela, and Japan. Dana Tiger is the daughter of nationally
acclaimed artist Jerome Tiger and an amazing artist and author in her own right.
Gabriel Gaytan has produced original works for clients such as the McDonald
Observatory and is best known for his mural-sized paintings and bold “Native-
Mexican” art pieces. Sam Coronado is an Austin based artist celebrity of Mayan
ancestry who has achieved international recognition through his serigraphs,
illustrations, and paintings. Andrew Saldaña’s work has been exhibited in mu-
seums and galleries across the country and is best known for its elegant simplic-
ity that exults serenity and idyllic romance. Julia Nava creates one-of-a-kind
“ojos de dios” that combine subtly colored textile interweavings with miniature
paintings. Emma Ortega’s delightfully playful paintings celebrate grandmothers
and children. Ramon Vasquez y Sanchez is a native Coahuilteco, whose award
winning Mission Indian art has been exhibited in numerous galleries and private
collections. Aaron Pyle is a member of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, a re-
cent graduate of Texas State University, and an emerging visual artist. Dr. Mario
Garza, from the Meakan/Garzas band of Mier, toured the Indian Market circuit for
over ten years and will exhibit one of his lauded medicine shields.
www.hillcountrycurrent.com

Blackbird
Antiques’
Unique
Employees
BY HEATHER WAGNER
Karen Frias, owner of Blackbird
Antiques in Comfort, Texas, can
rest assured that her store greet-
ers are most unique. Molly and
Hudson began coming to work
with her six years ago, and have
been pleasing visitors with their
personalities ever since. Molly
and Hudson are no ordinary
greeters-they are Karen’s Pug
dogs, and have been ‘working’ at
Blackbird Antiques ever since they
were just seven weeks old.
When they first started coming
to work with Karen, they took
their naps in antique baby cradles.
Now Karen has turned one area of
the store into their own personal
boudoir.
The Pugs sleep on antique sam-
ple beds, complete with antique
quilts and pillows, have their own
1940 playhouse furniture–all to
scale, of course–two phone lines,
and a display of their favorite
antique perfume bottles.
For the holidays, Frias decorates
their space with a Christmas tree
and stockings that hang by the
fireplace with care.
Molly and Hudson are celebrities
www.hillcountrycurrent.com
comfort
in Comfort and receive fan mail Molly and Hudson greet visitors in their room
from local kids; they are even at Blackbird Antique in Comfort, Texas. Photo by Karen Frias.
pen pals with members of Mrs.
Oliphant’s fourth grade class from
Comfort Elementary.
The letters and homemade
birthday cards they receive are
displayed behind them on the
Doggie Wall. Visitors send in
pictures of their pets to be put on
display.
Molly and Hudson love the
attention they receive and are
always willing to pose for pictures,
especially Hudson who cheeses
it up on his distressed leather
couch.
Being the trendsetters that
they are, Molly and Hudson have
inspired several people to get
Karen’s help in creating doggie
suites for their beloved pets.
The next time you are in Com-
fort, stop by and say hi to Molly
and Hudson at Blackbird An-
tiques. While you are there, check
out the other exciting things that
Karen has on display.
HILL COUNTRY CURRENT December 2009 ★ 19
20 ★ December 2009 HILL COUNTRY CURRENT www.hillcountrycurrent.com