Publisher's Letter
Did anyone else feel like they were not ready for January to arrive, only for it to disappear in the blink of an eye? I am still a little salty about Thanksgiving being so late—it completely threw off my rhythm for the holiday season. Add in the most underwhelming snow day ever, and it did not feel like the new year had truly begun until we were halfway through the first month. But here we are, already in February.
This month brings big changes for our family. My husband is starting a new job after working eight wonderful years at Texarkana Funeral Home. We are so grateful to Vickers and Thomas Fuqua for leading a locally owned business that has been more like a second family to us. Their support and kindness will always hold a special place in our hearts. While this transition is bittersweet, sometimes life surprises you with opportunities you never saw coming. Now, we are excited to cheer on the Texas A&M–Texarkana Eagles as Fred joins their team. Here’s to new adventures and new friendships.
We are also celebrating another big change—my dad recently got married! Seeing him find his perfect match in Ginger has been such a blessing. He has achieved so much as a business owner, but watching the happiness and light Ginger has brought to his personal life has by far been my favorite thing. She was the missing piece we didn’t even know our family puzzle needed, and we are beyond grateful to welcome her into our family.
February, a month dedicated to love and heart health, feels like the perfect time to share truly inspiring stories. Don’t miss Vonnie Hale’s incredible journey. It is a teen romance turned lifelong partnership with her husband, a local cardiologist, Dr. Seth Hale, who has been her steady anchor through life’s scariest moments battling a “broken” heart. It is a beautiful reminder that God goes before us, preparing the way. I also have to mention we had the best time during her photoshoot. Her bright and kind personality shined through every photo and outfit change. We are also spotlighting the Honorable Evelyn Palfrey McKee, whose extraordinary journey took her from Paul Laurence Dunbar, to the courtroom seated on the bench, and later, to writing romance novels fit for the “marvelously mature.”
As always, this issue is packed with features we know you will enjoy. Bailey Gravitt and Liz Flippo share their fabulous columns, and we are showcasing a stunning cabin renovation by local designer Brittany Brooks. For those caring for senior family members, our Senior Living section is filled with helpful tips and resources. There is definitely something for everyone.
We poured so much love into this issue, and we are endlessly thankful for every reader and advertiser who makes that possible. Your support allows us to do what we love, and for that, we are truly grateful.
