Well... I'm Back!

If you noticed I disappeared last week, I promise I didn't fall off the face of the earth. Although, for a while, I wasn't entirely convinced my house wasn't trying to disappear.

It all started with what was supposed to be a quick air conditioning project. You know how those go. The AC company said, "We'll just need to cut a small hole," and the next thing I knew, our home was in shambles. There are holes in the walls. Holes in the ceiling. Dust everywhere. Every room has somehow become a construction zone. At this point, I feel like I need to wear a hard hat just to leave my bedroom!

The best part? I had the entire house professionally deep cleaned just a few days before. Talk about perfect timing.

For those who don't know the backstory, our house was struck by lightning back in December 2024. And it wasn't just a little zap. It took out appliances, damaged parts of the house, and kicked off what felt like the longest insurance claim in history. After months of paperwork, phone calls, inspections, and waiting, the insurance company finally settled.

Now comes the rebuilding.

It's messy. It's loud. And it seems like every time one thing gets fixed, another hole appears somewhere else. But little by little, it's all coming together.

So, if you've wondered where I've been, I've been living in what feels like an active construction site—sweeping up drywall dust, moving furniture from room to room, and reminding myself that sometimes things have to get a little worse before they get a whole lot better.

The good news? Soon the house will be better than new.

The even better news? I'm back, the newsletter is back, and I've missed sharing all the great things happening around our community.

Thanks for sticking with me. Now, let's get caught up on everything I missed!

Here's what's been buzzing around while I was dodging drywall dust! From new businesses to exciting projects taking shape and local happenings worth knowing about, here's what's new around our community.

🌿 Hidden in Plain Sight: Dr. Ned & Fay Dudney Nature Center
If you're looking for a peaceful escape without leaving the Bay Area, the Dr. Ned & Fay Dudney Nature Center in League City is a hidden gem worth exploring. This 148-acre nature preserve features a scenic paved trail that winds through coastal wetlands, towering grasses, and native wildlife habitat. Keep your eyes open for egrets, herons, pelicans, owls, and even the occasional migratory bird stopping along the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail. Whether you're taking a morning walk, enjoying a quiet picnic, or simply looking to unplug for a while, this beautiful spot is a reminder that some of the best adventures are right in our own backyard.

Need a break from the Texas heat? I found a few fun indoor happenings and activities around the Bay Area, Houston.

If you have a local event to share, send us the information. [email protected]

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I am not responsible for humidity, heat waves, or sudden mood swings from the sky.

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Spot construction or a new development? Sent us a message and we’ll dig up the details! Know a hometown person or business that deserves a spotlight? Send us the details! Have something you’d love to see each week? Send us your suggestions, and we’ll do our best to make it happen.

Just remember, we’re only human, but we’ll do our best to make this your newsletter.

Jessica Johnson

Publisher/Founder