Moments with my mom

Body taking up a bit more space in my head and heart this week. Springtime reminds me of her birthdate, April 28, so I suppose it is only natural to feel a stronger tug to memories and moments shared with her.

Senate, House begin budget reconciliation process

Body unanimously approved a $308 billion two-year budget last week, the Austin American-Statesman reported. The next step is to reconcile that budget with one passed earlier by the Texas House.

What’s in a name?

Body Because it is my name! Because I cannot have another in my life! – John Proctor, “The Crucible” Indulge this quick review of your high school Junior English class.

More than 18,000 cattle killed in Dimmitt explosion

Body What is being called the deadliest barn fire for cattle on record left more than 18,000 cattle dead and one worker critically injured at a dairy farm in the Texas Panhandle, The Dallas Morning News reported.

No-bake Cookie Chocolate Oatmeal

Body This recipe will feel oh-so indulgent—and cooks up to be the texture of a rich, smooth, and silky chocolate pudding. With the combination of oats and chocolate, it stirs up thoughts of the famous no-bake cookies my mom has made for many, many years.

The 501

Body HANABA MUNN WELCH Non-Bruce, EDA and mesquite Someone with the face of my real friend Bruce sent me a Facebook friend request. I accepted. Bruce sent me a message. It was “hello.” Nobody just says “hello.” My response: “Is it really you?

Miles and miles of thoughts

Body While I’ve been writing this week’s column from Florence, Texas, my thoughts are all over the place. I am coming up short for a certain theme, story, commentary,or feature. Much like the vehicle I drove last week, I am all over the place.

House OKs $302 billion budget

Body The Texas House approved a $302 billion budget last week that included an amendment prohibiting the use of state money on private school tuition — a major setback to Gov. Greg Abbott’s plan to establish a school voucher system.

The 501

Body HANABA MUNN WELCH Don’t take the bait “Scatter charcoal throughout your home and see what happens overnight.” Ah, clickbait. The last thing I’m gonna do is click on the hand holding the little piece of charcoal to see what they’re trying to sell me. Charcoal?

Roasted red pepper hummus brightens a spring meal

Body Sunshine on a plate. That’s what I think of when I look at this dish. So bright and flavorful. Hummus is loaded with protein, and a perfect “bean” dip for warm weather; no worrying about mayonnaise or dairy-based dips going bad in the heat for outdoor events.