Author: Valerie Jennings

So Many Recipes, So Little Follow-Through

Valerie Jennings

I hoard recipes like treasure—stuffed in binders, scattered across Pinterest boards, and saved in dusty corners of Facebook. Most are untested, but all are brimming with good intentions. Now I’m on a mission to break free from frozen pizza nights and finally try some of these gems—starting with cheesy, comforting spinach enchiladas.

Property Taxes, HOAs, and the Price of Options: A 5-10-1 Home Dilemma

Valerie Jennings

I’ve never paid that much attention to property taxes. I just assumed they were standard—something we had to pay, and that was that. But as part of my 10-10-1 plan—or more accurately, my 5-10-1 plan at this point—I’m trying to build a home life that energizes and supports the lifestyle I want. The first step?… Continue reading Property Taxes, HOAs, and the Price of Options: A 5-10-1 Home Dilemma

The Bangs Incident: A Grandson, A Fade, and A Haircut Gone Sideways

Valerie Jennings

My 12-year-old grandson has been growing out his hair since the end of school. He didn’t have a specific hairstyle in mind—he just wanted to grow it out. Normally, he likes it short with a fade, but this summer he was rocking the shaggy look. It had just started to touch his collar and he… Continue reading The Bangs Incident: A Grandson, A Fade, and A Haircut Gone Sideways

Waxing Through the Weird Phases of Life

Valerie Jennings

When I was younger, having electrolysis to keep things tidy and from peeping out of your bikini bottoms was considered cutting edge. Over time, the Brazilian wax evolved and somehow became... normal? I’d honestly love to know what went on in that first brainstorming meeting: “We need something that brings in steady income. Something bold.… Continue reading Waxing Through the Weird Phases of Life

🎬 My Movie Obsession (And Why I Can’t Commit to Country Life)

Valerie Jennings

I love going to the movies. Not just like—love. If there’s an advanced showing, sneak peek, or opening night event, I’m in the front of the line (well, maybe center row… center seat). I even go to those mysterious “sneak preview” nights where you don’t know what you’re watching until the lights dim. Risky? Maybe.… Continue reading 🎬 My Movie Obsession (And Why I Can’t Commit to Country Life)

Racing, Ghosts, and Cornbread Sandwiches: A Weekend in Jefferson, TX

Valerie Jennings

🏁 We’re already more than halfway through the 2025 TCCRA season, and the best news? Both Ray and Iyan are winning their classes! Woohoo! Ray races in the Over-59 Expert class, and Iyan, who jumped into his first race this year on a whim, is absolutely crushing it in the 65 Beginner class. A Weekend… Continue reading Racing, Ghosts, and Cornbread Sandwiches: A Weekend in Jefferson, TX

Tomatoes, Hornworms and Chickens – Another country life adventure

Valerie Jennings

Update: Our brave little tomato plant that took on the hornworms and barely survived is doing its best to recover. Check out these pics. There’s nothing like growing your own food—especially when you’re twelve years old and you love tomatoes. My grandson’s pride and joy this summer has been a cherry tomato plant that has… Continue reading Tomatoes, Hornworms and Chickens – Another country life adventure