I’m delighted to welcome you to our festive Christmas issue. This issue celebrates tradition, community, and the magic that comes when we gather with the people we love. We have a lot of wonderful stories in this issue, but I first wanted to take a look back at 2025 and share my favorite stories of the year.
Moving With the Military was featured in the February/March issue. Maria Reed and her team are absolute gems. They do so much for the military community and Blair Dupre’s feature really highlights the impact they make.
I absolutely love everything about the April/May issue, where we highlighted things to do in some of the major cities in Texas. From stories to layout, I think it was absolutely brilliant.
Our June/July issue was also filled with exciting stories, but my favorite has to be Tonya Warren’s feature on local community members’ first summer jobs. I love that she highlights, not only what their first summer job was, but also how it helped shape their lives.
For the August/September issue, we decided to do things a little differently and combined back-to-school with our annual health care issue. Let’s just say, the issue is fantastic! Inside, we were able to highlight a lot of the great things going on at the local schools and hospitals.
I loved all the stories in our October/November issue. Many of our stories featured women using their gifts to help others. It’s always inspiring when people do good things in their community. Amy Rognlie has a wonderful gift of sharing what makes a person tick and she did so brilliantly with her feature on Doree Collins and Rockin’ R Retreat Center.
If you haven’t read our past issues, you can find them on our website, www.texappealmag.com.
In this issue, the Grigsby family — Nathan, Megan, Tyler and Logan — is featured on the cover. Almost like stepping straight out of a Hallmark Christmas movie, the family owns a real-life Christmas tree farm in Salado. Their trees sell out fast, so make sure you read their story here and then race over to Salado to experience your own Hallmark Christmas movie magic.
If Christmas lights are your thing, read this. Amy shares where to find dazzling lights in Central Texas. Some are driving tours, while others provide an immersive experience. There’s definitely something for everyone. Throw some hot cocoa in a thermos, bundle up and head out for a Christmas light adventure.
Eric and Moe Elliot, featured here, take dressing up as Santa and Mrs. Claus to the next level. The retired military couple spreads the joy of Christmas year-round.
Our newest writer, John Montelongo, steps inside the kitchen and shares his own family’s cherished tradition — homemade tamales, here. If you’ve ever wanted to test out your own tamale-making skills, we have also included a recipe.
We look forward to a fresh new year filled with kindness, compassion and love. From all of us with the Tex Appeal family, we wish you a blessed holiday season. See you in 2026!
Brandy Cruz
Tex Appeal editor