Cooler Mornings, Country Roads & a Little Rustic Joy
Greetings from the beautiful Texas Hill Country!
October has brought some much-needed rain and cooler temperatures to the Hill Country, and we couldn’t be happier! The change in weather has made it a pleasure to spend more time outdoors, tending to the property, refreshing our landscaping, and filling old water tanks and planters with new flowers and greenery. And, of course, we’ve enjoyed simply sitting on the back porch, taking in the views and sharing good conversations.
Fall has always been our favorite season here at the Inn. There’s something about this time of year that seems to awaken all the senses.
The crisp morning air, a warm cup of coffee on the porch, the sound of birds singing and wild turkeys calling in the distance—these are some of the simple pleasures we treasure most. Then there’s the wonderful aroma of fresh coffee, homemade baked goods, and sizzling bacon greeting guests as they enter the breakfast room. Sometimes breakfast is a treat for the senses before the first bite is ever taken!
And the evenings are every bit as special. The sunsets seem especially beautiful this time of year, painting the Hill Country sky in glorious shades of gold, pink, and orange. Whether we’re gathered around the firepit with a glass of wine, enjoying an outdoor movie, stargazing, or simply visiting with friends, these are the moments that remind us how blessed we are to call this place home.
A Little Road Trip & Some Sweet Reunions
Late last month, we managed to slip away for a quick road trip to Illinois to spend time with family. What a wonderful visit it was! We enjoyed precious time with loved ones, caught up with dear cousins I hadn’t seen in several years, and even attended a fun reunion with friends from Lynn’s eighth-grade class.
We’ve always loved a good road trip. There’s something special about having uninterrupted time together—to talk, listen to favorite music, explore antique shops, and discover interesting little restaurants along the way. We often find that the unexpected stops become some of our favorite memories.
One such discovery on this trip was The Table Restaurant in Springfield, Missouri, tucked inside a beautifully decorated old mill. The food was delicious, the atmosphere was inviting, and the setting was full of character. It was just the kind of place we love to stumble upon in our travels. And, as it turns out, we brought home a little more than a wonderful memory.
Finding Joy in Unexpected Places
The restaurant had a charming little shop, where I found a pretty apron and a beautiful cookbook by Danielle Kartes titled Rustic Joyful Food: My Heart’s Table.
Anyone who knows me knows I’m always on the lookout for a good cookbook! I love discovering new recipes and finding special dishes to prepare for our guests at the Inn. But this cookbook turned out to be much more than a collection of delicious recipes.
A few days after we returned home, I finally sat down and began reading the introduction. I was deeply moved by Danielle’s honesty, her faith, and the story she shared about the difficult seasons of her life. She writes about how struggles and brokenness helped shape her, deepen her faith, and remind her that God was with her through it all.
Her words touched my heart in a way I hadn’t expected. What began as a simple purchase during a road trip became a beautiful reminder that God can use even the difficult chapters of our lives to shape our purpose and bring something good into the world. I can’t wait to try some of her recipes, but I’m equally grateful for the encouragement I found in her story. Sometimes inspiration comes when we least expect it.
Perhaps a Cookbook of Our Own Someday?
I love sharing recipes with our guests, and over the years, many have asked whether I have a cookbook of my own.
Lynn and I have often talked about writing down our story—our adventures, the unexpected turns along the way, and the journey that eventually brought us to this little slice of heaven here in the Texas Hill Country.
Perhaps someday we’ll write that story. Or maybe it will take the form of a cookbook filled with favorite recipes, family memories, and stories from life at the Inn. For now, we’ll keep sharing a little of our lives through these monthly newsletters, along with the recipes, memories, and simple joys that make this place so special to us.
And speaking of recipes, I’d love to share one of our favorite fall treats!
From Our Kitchen to Yours: Pumpkin Bread
Adapted from an old Lone Star Legacy Cookbook
There’s nothing quite like the smell of pumpkin bread baking in the oven on a cool fall morning. This recipe has become a seasonal favorite, filled with warm spices, pecans, and just a hint of orange. It’s wonderful with a cup of coffee and even better when shared with someone you love.
Ingredients
● 2⅔ cups sugar
● ⅔ cup avocado oil
● 2 small eggs
● 2 cups canned pumpkin
● 3⅓ cups all-purpose flour
● 1 tablespoon baking soda
● ½ teaspoon salt
● 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
● ½ teaspoon ground cloves
● ¾ cup raisins
● ¾ cup chopped pecans
● ⅓ cup orange juice
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two 9 x 5-inch loaf pans.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar and avocado oil. Beat for several minutes until well blended.
3. Add the eggs and beat thoroughly, then blend in the pumpkin.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and cloves.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture, stirring until combined.
6. Fold in the raisins, chopped pecans, and orange juice.
7. Divide the batter between the prepared loaf pans and bake for approximately 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the loaves to cool in their pans for 10 minutes before removing them to finish cooling.
A little tip from our kitchen: This bread is delicious, served slightly warm with a pat of butter. It also makes a thoughtful homemade gift during the fall and holiday seasons!
Fall Adventures in the Texas Hill Country
Autumn is one of the loveliest times to explore Wimberley and the surrounding Hill Country. Cooler weather invites leisurely strolls through town, visits to local art galleries, outdoor markets, live music, festivals, and evenings under the stars.
Whether you’re planning a fall getaway or looking for something fun to do while visiting us, here are a few upcoming events worth exploring.
October 10 — Wimberley Chili Cook-Off & Music Fest
Willow Lake, 110 Old Kyle Road, Wimberley
Chili tasting begins at noon, followed by live music from 6–9 p.m.
October 10 — Wimberley Oktoberfest
Wimberley Valley Winery, Driftwood
Beginning at 11 a.m., enjoy German-inspired food, seasonal beer, and live polka music from 1–4 p.m.
October 16–18 — Dripping Springs Songwriters Festival
Mercer Street and Old Fitzhugh Road, Dripping Springs
Enjoy live performances by more than 40 songwriters across eight stages, with performances scheduled from approximately 1:30–8 p.m.
October 17–18 — Wimberley Arts Fest & Blue Agave Art Fair – Wimberley
A wonderful opportunity to explore local and regional art, meet artists, and enjoy the creative spirit of the Hill Country.
November 6 — Outdoor Movie: Cars
Blue Hole Regional Park, Wimberley | 6:30–8:30 p.m.
Bring a blanket and enjoy a family-friendly movie outdoors.
November 7 — Wimberley Market Day
Lions Field, Wimberley | 7 a.m.–3 p.m.
Browse hundreds of booths filled with antiques, handcrafted gifts, artwork, clothing, and unique finds.
November 7 — Wimberley Film Festival
Blue Hole Regional Park, Wimberley | 4–8 p.m.
An evening celebrating film in a beautiful outdoor setting.
November 7 — Outside the City Limits Music Festival
Vista Brewing, Driftwood | Noon–8 p.m.
An outdoor music festival featuring live performances, local food, and a relaxed Hill Country atmosphere.
November 13 & 20 — Owl Prowl & Nocturnal Animal Hike
Blue Hole Regional Park, Wimberley | 7:30–8:30 p.m.
Join a guided evening walk in search of owls and learn about the fascinating wildlife that comes alive after dark. Listed admission: $10.
November 15 — Harvest Moon Dinner & Dance
Fischer Hall, Fischer, Texas
Enjoy a memorable evening of food, music, and dancing in a historic Hill Country setting.
Until Next Time…
As we settle into this beautiful fall season, we’re reminded once again that some of life’s greatest blessings are found in the simplest things—a cool morning, a shared meal, a familiar voice, a good story, and time spent with those we love.
We’re so grateful for the wonderful guests who find their way to Sunset Mill Ranch. Whether you’ve stayed with us before, are planning your first visit, or simply enjoy keeping up with our little corner of the Hill Country, thank you for being part of our story.
We hope this season brings you moments of peace, renewed joy, and plenty of opportunities to make beautiful memories.
With warm wishes from the Hill Country,
Diana & Lynn
Inn at Sunset Mill Ranch
Wimberley, Texas
