Lifestyle

Italian Oregano of flavorful meals!

Planting Perennial Herb Plants - Part 1

The best perennial herbs are year-round and long-lasting. In the typical Falls County, TX, climate, that means special attention to soil condition and watering schedules. The greatest news this month is that early Spring (March to April) is the best time to plant perennial herbs like rosemary, thyme, oregano, lavender, sage, mint, and lemon balm. Planting now will allow roots to establish in a still cool, moist soil before intense summer heat.

Photograph by Derinda Austin

Cowboy Stew Recipe by Derinda Austin

“I have enjoyed making this quick and easy recipe for many years. It is a favorite go-to meal because it’s easy to keep the ingredients on hand for use. This Cowboy Stew was especially simple to prepare after church services when a quick lunch allowed more time to visit. One of the many favorites of Jeanette Brothers and myself,” acclaims Derinda Austin.

Heritage House Residents, Valentine’s Day Queen Charlotte and King Noah
Photos courtesy of Heritage House Facebook

Heritage House Crowns Valentine’s King and Queen in Holiday Party

Over the weekend, Heritage House Nursing and Rehabilitation celebrated Valentine’s Day with a party full of love, organized by Activity Director Frances Embers. Noah and Charlotte were recognized as the resident King and Queen, and the party was a resounding success, with all residents enjoying themselves immensely.

Pauline Shaw and Angela Shaw Ross in Kingstree in 2025. Pauline’s DNA also linked families in Marlin and South Carolina. Photos courtesy of Sharon Johnson Styles
Cousin Tammy presents King Moore Jr an award at the 2018 Shaw Reunion in Marlin. His DNA connected families in Marlin and South Carolina.
Sharon Styles and Geneva Shaw in Kingstree in 2017. Geneva’s DNA linked families in Marlin to South Carolina.

More Than A Family Tree: What DNA Reveals

The use of DNA testing in genealogy has exploded in the last decade or so. We use DNA testing on a regular basis and it’s been a game changer. What could take years to find with traditional genealogy methods is uncovered, seemingly overnight. We were able to make connections between several Shaw Families in Falls County with the DNA results of the late Bishop King Moore Jr., grandson of Priscilla Shaw Moore. In 2017 while in Kingstree, South Carolina we DNA tested Geneva Shaw who matched all of our Shaw elders in Marlin. Last May, we also tested Pauline Shaw while in Kingstree. She too matched the Shaws in Marlin. This was concrete proof of our South Carolina connection.

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