May is the month for Mother's Day and a time for showing thanks. While quality time with her children surely ranks high on any Mom's gift list, an added show of appreciation is always welcome - and worth the extra smile.

With help from the GO TEXAN program, making Mom's day is easy. From traditional gifts of flowers, jewelry and confections to fine dining, wines and weekend getaways, GO TEXAN offers a long list of possibilities.

"Our GO TEXAN members offer a variety of unique gifts for Mother's Day," said Mary York, Texas Department of Agriculture's state marketing coordinator for fiber. "If it's produced by a GO TEXAN company, you can be sure it was crafted with care, quality and pride. When you shop GO TEXAN, you're not only giving a great gift, you're also supporting Texas producers."

Ever met a mom who didn't appreciate jewelry? Neither have we. Sparkly, shiny, bright and beautiful, jewelry always makes a great gift for Mom, and there's plenty of it produced right here in the Lone Star State. Whether reflecting a popular Southwestern flair or the classic appeal of gold, silver or diamonds, jewelry of every shape and size is always sure to please. Mix and match, buy in complementary pairs or shop for that special something that adds a personal touch - a custom engraved piece that happily suits Mom on her special day.

Breakfast in bed? A long suds-filled bath? Mom certainly won't say no to either of those fun options, but add a little extra to the day by showering her with something sweet, such as perfume, lotions, candles or soaps from one of Texas' unique GO TEXAN members that knows firsthand how to pamper Mom on Mother's Day. 

Mothers love flowers and what better way to show your thoughtful appreciation than with the best Texas-grown choices. An inviting fragrance of colorful fresh-cut floral varieties will have Mom delighted and overwhelmingly appreciative on her big day. Here are a few Texas garden bouquet suggestions: delphiniums, snapdragons, achillea, coreopsis, campanula, dianthus, Queen Anne's lace, centaurea (cornflower), agrostemma (corn cockle), and Asiatic and Oriental lillies. Also, be on the lookout for beautiful blooming chrysanthemums. 

Allow Mom to sit back and enjoy the spectacular rural Texas scenery while visiting a Texas winery on Mother's Day. Our award-winning wineries are happy to share the fruits of their labors this May with special celebratory stopovers. Travel with Mom to a Texas winery, sit and sip a while, and then spend the night. More than a handful of our well-known and noteworthy wineries also offer the easy comforts of a relaxing bed and breakfast. Chart a course to a Texas winery and enjoy the journey as much as the destination. 

Need a travel suggestion to take in the breathtaking beauty of rural Texas? We've got plenty. Rural Texas covers approximately 80 percent of the state's total land area. Ours is a proud rural culture with a distinctive flavor, and Mom will love to get out and take part in one of the many exciting events that one of our rural communities has to offer.

You can't go wrong giving Mom the gift of GO TEXAN this Mother's Day. Launched in 1999 by TDA, the GO TEXAN program promotes the products, culture and communities that call Texas home. As a mark of Lone Star pride, the GO TEXAN logo - a glowing brand in the shape of Texas - can be found on everything that calls Texas home, from grapefruit to cowboy boots to scenic destinations. Find out more at www.gotexan.org/.

SIDEBAR

Going out to eat? GO TEXAN

Most Moms have served more meals than their kids could ever repay. This Mother's Day, why not turn the tables and take Mom out to dinner? And when you dine out on Mother's Day, choose a restaurant with a big Texas accent.

The GO TEXAN Restaurant Program, established as part of the Texas Department of Agriculture's GO TEXAN program, links participating Texas restaurants to local producers and other Texas-grown or processed food products to bring the quality of Texas to the table.

Visit www.gotexan.org/ to find a restaurant near you and treat Mom to a great meal while helping promote the bounty of Texas. The GO TEXAN Restaurant Program - Bringing Texas to the Table.

By David Glessner
Texas Department of Agriculture
December 2007

For a gem of a gift this holiday season, shop for the jingle of jewelry. From chains and charms to bangles and beads, jewelry is a classic gift with a timeless twist.

"Jewelry can be a very personal and treasured gift that lasts a lifetime," said Mary York, TDA's coordinator for fiber marketing. "Texas artisans and jewelry makers have always been known for their unique style and quality craftsmanship. Whether your style is big and bold or delicate and refined, there are plenty of Texas jewelers with something to brighten your holidays."

Anyone who takes a shine to silver is sure to find a prize at Avalon Jewelry (www.avalonjewelry.com/). Specializing in fine sterling silver since 1985, the Helotes-based jeweler offers a wide selection of bracelets, earrings, charms and chains. Avalon also offers 10- and 14-karat gold, and welcomes custom orders. Have a loved one who's a sports fan, musician or fantasy fan? Browse Avalon's assortment of charms inspired by dragons, guitars, ice skates, baseballs, cheerleaders and much more. Choose an accompanying chain or bracelet, and gift shopping is a wrap.

For jewelry that truly dazzles, check out the bold and beautiful gemstones at Bitter Creek Designs (www.bittercreekdesigns.com/). Established in Boerne by self-taught jeweler Jenny Forks and recently relocated to San Antonio, Bitter Creek Designs specializes in quality glass beads, coral, turquoise, pearls and other show-stopping stones for men and women. Choose from Bitter Creek's vast and colorful inventory or custom-make your own pieces by scheduling an instructional class, complete with materials and supplies.

At Maverick Rose (www.maverickrose.com/) in Dallas, founder Linda Fisher brings 20 years of jewelry experience and Old West inspiration to her lines of high fashion pendants, belt buckles, earrings and more. Turquoise, Swarovski crystals and the finest metals merge to make unique designs that have been featured in such magazines as Cowboys & Indians and Western & English Today. Read all about it on the Maverick Rose Web site and be sure to check back often for numerous brand-new creations.

Another way to make a holiday splash is with coral, quartz or freshwater pearls from the treasure trove at Seguin-based Mei Mei's Designs (www.meimeidesigns.com/). Each exquisite necklace is uniquely handcrafted and offered with matching earrings and bracelets for an overall look of opulent elegance. Owner Amy Dahlke also offers pendants and charms. Consider hosting a show highlighting Mei Mei designs and receive discounted rates on jewelry for you and yours.

Taking a leap of faith to make a dream come true landed the mother-and-daughter team of Annette and Megan Milliff at Annette's Touch of Class (www.annettestouchofclass.com/) in Willis. Incorporating retro flair with fine metals and bright colors, Annette's offers a wide range of unique belt buckles, rings and accessories that are sure to start conversations. From sacred hearts and rosaries to multi-strand necklaces and novelty charms, Annette's offers plenty to please anyone on your gift list.

Knowing that sparkle is the spice of life, Kerri Lawnsby Studio in Leander (www.foxyfusions.com/) offers its Foxy Fusions line of shimmering rings, charms and men's cufflinks in a range of bold and blended colors. Put a sparkle in someone's eyes with a surprise from Foxy Fusions.

Making your list for holiday cheer? Uncover a jewel at the Texas Department of Agriculture's GO TEXAN Web site at www.gotexan.org/. Click on "Find Product/Members" and browse a comprehensive list of GO TEXAN jewelry makers. For additional information about Texas fibers, fashion and jewelry, contact Mary York at (512) 463-8289 or mary.york@tda.state.tx.us.

By David Glessner
Texas Department of Agriculture
July 2007

When man's best friend deserves the best in return, a doggie bag filled with treats is a great way to show your love.

With help from the Texas Department of Agriculture, your dog will be begging for the gifts of biscuits, bones, soaps and shampoos. Visit TDA's GO TEXAN producers who know that a dog's life should be filled with fun.

"Our pets are like family," said Mary York, TDA's coordinator for fiber marketing. "Watching your pet get excited over a new toy or treat is fun. Plus, it's a great way to reward them for their companionship and loyalty."

The rewards are many at Big Bark Bakery (www.bigbarkbakery.com) where all-natural dog treats are a snack-time specialty. Available in peanut, carob chip and oatmeal/cinnamon flavors, biscuits can be purchased in 1-5 lb. mixed containers. Other options include dippity-doo-dad hand-dipped peanut bones flavored with carob or the mega-bite peanut bone that packs extra crunch. Like it says on the labels, Big Bark Bakery treats are howling good.

Bark for Peace! (www.barkforpeace.com) is another great source for tail-wagging treats. Specializing in vegan, organic, human-grade and allergen-free, dog treats, Bark for Peace! prides itself on using anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant ingredients like garlic, rosemary, blueberries, goji berries and sweet potatoes in place of gluten, corn, dairy and preservatives. Bark for Peace! not only cares about healthy dogs, the company's cellophane packaging is Earth friendly and biodegradable.

For dogs that fancy gourmet-style treats, La Bella Bistro (www.labellabistro.com/) has the spoils. Made with 100 percent human-grade ingredients and no added chemical preservatives, La Bella Bistro strives for pooch-approved flavor and nutritional value. Whole grains, rice flour, brewer's yeast and USDA grade A meats are mixed with vitamins and minerals that promote a healthy skin and coat. Slow-baked and sealed tight, La Bella Bistro treats arrive full of nutritious flavor and tempting aroma.

Smelling good and being pampered is all part of the package at the Cain and Able Collection (www.cainandablecollection.com/). Bath products, spa accessories and all-natural aromatherapy put your lucky dog in the lap of luxury. Shampoos, spritzes and soaps on a rope are just a few of the all-natural products designed to soothe skin and shine the coat. There is even a paw rub product designed to moisturize, heal and protect against cracked, itchy skin.

Sudsy dog products from Sunfortune Soapworks (www.sunfortunesoap.com/) are another great way to make a splash. An all-natural shampoo in bar form cleans canine coats with the ease of soap while helping repel pests. Another more mild all-natural glycerin soap is designed for sensitive skin, and an all-natural dry shampoo keeps your pup smelling fresh between baths. Gift sets also are available in a cotton tote bag. Even better, Sunfortune's Web site says a portion of all sales goes to help homeless animals in need of extra care.

"We love dogs because they have added so much to our lives, and this is our way of giving back to our beloved canine community," says Sunfortune soap maker Alicia Redden.

For a comprehensive list of GO TEXAN dog gift producers, visit the Texas Department of Agriculture at www.gotexan.org/ and click on "Find Products/Members." You also may contact Mary York, TDA's state marketing coordinator for fiber, at (512) 463-8289 or mary.york@tda.state.tx.us.

In a hearty show of Lone Star appreciation, the Texas Department of Agriculture would like to extend a great big thanks to the 10 Texas Yes! member towns that partnered with TDA during the State Fair of Texas to offer unique rural Texas getaways. The fair took place Sept. 30-Oct. 23 in Dallas.

Texas Yes! is a TDA initiative designed to promote the growth and prosperity of rural Texas.

The following Texas Yes! members offered special "Make Your Getaway" packages to fairgoers that were available as a prize drawing at TDA's Food and Fiber Pavilion.

In case you didn't get a chance to make it to the Pavilion this year, now's your chance to pack up the family and sample what's in store for you in rural Texas.

Make your getaway today! For more information on rural Texas and to see how you can take full advantage of TDA's Texas Yes! program, visit www.texasyes.org and click on the "Make Your Getaway" tab.

Slow Down and Live It Up in Historic Downtown Canadian!

Spend the weekend of your choice in Canadian, with overnight lodging at the Lewis Bed and Breakfast. Enjoy dinner at the Cattle Exchange Restaurant, an evening at the Palace Theatre or a morning of guided bird watching or nature photography instruction with famous wildlife photographer Dick Wilberforce.

To explore more:
www.cookya.com
www.palacetheatre.com
www.canadiantx.com

Discover the "Underground Scene" in Eldorado!

Spend a couple of nights at the X Bar Ranch Lodge in Eldorado and visit the famous underground Caverns of Sonora.

To explore more:
www.xbarranch.com/main.htm
www.cavernsofsonora.com
www.eldoradotx.com

Step Back in Time with a Visit to Marion County!

Discover the beauty of East Texas with a stay in Jefferson at The Pride House Bed and Breakfast - a breathtaking Victorian mansion with 12-foot ceilings, stained glass windows, family steamboat memorabilia, antiques and heirlooms, original art, cozy fireplaces and exceptional service. Enjoy dinner at Lamache's Italian restaurant and visit the Gone With the Wind Museum.

To explore more:
www.jeffersontexas.com

Enjoy a Totally Texas Getaway in Concho County!

Enjoy a stay amidst the wide-open spaces of Dry Hollow Hideaway, located on a spacious and secluded 700-acre landscape. Golf at the Concho Springs Golf Course and dine at Lowake Steak House. Get to know the history of Concho County with tours of the Painted Rocks Indian Pictographs, the Ernest & Dorothy Barrow Foundation Museum and the Don Freeman Memorial Museum.

To explore more:
www.thegolfcourses.net/golfcourses/TX/36408.htm
www.lone-star.net/mall/txtrails/paintrock.htm

Get Back to Basics at the Wildcatter Ranch and Resort in Graham!

Get in touch with your cowboy roots with a stay at the Wildcatter Ranch and Resort. Located northwest of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex in the scenic Palo Pinto Hill Country, the Wildcatter is one of Texas' newest guest ranches, offering more than 4,000 acres of diverse Texas landscape bordered by the historic Brazos River.

To explore more:
www.wildcatterranch.com

It's Your Choice in Lake Texoma!

Treat yourself to a weekend's stay at the Bed and Breakfast of your choice in the Lake Texoma area. Lake Texoma is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the Southwest, and is famous for its great fishing, marinas, resorts, natural beauty and lively nightlife. Just 75 miles north of Dallas, this 89,000-acre lake on the Red River awaits you!

To explore more:
www.laketexoma.com

Discover How the West Was Fun in Fort Davis!

Delight in a weekend at the charmingly old-fashioned Old Texan Inn and then get set to explore the territory with a two-hour sunset horseback ride. In the evening, scan the night skies at the famous McDonald Observatory. A guided trip to the Paradise Ranch includes a chance to do some rock hunting and view Native American rock shelters and pictographs. Save some energy for a canyon hike guided by the Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute followed by dinner on the front porch as you round out your Wild West adventure!

To explore more:
www.mcdonaldobservatory.org
www.cdri.org

Comfort in Clifton!

Enjoy some down home county comfort at Lake Haven Bed & Breakfast Inn. This bed and breakfast and fine dining club overlook Lake Whitney at Walling Bend Park in Clifton.

To explore more:
www.clifton.centraltx.com

"A Nature Lover's Dream" in Clifton!

Enjoy a stay at the River's Bend Bed & Breakfast in Clifton. Peaceful and quiet, you'll enjoy the natural beauty of this private 240-acre farm located 35 miles from Waco.

To explore more:
www.bedandbreakfast.com/texas/the-rivers-bend-bed-and-breakfast.html

Fun on the Open Plains with the Bar H Working Dude Ranch in Clarendon!

Get ready to ride at the Bar H Working Dude Ranch that includes lodging, meals and horseback riding. Take a guided tour of the restored Donley County Courthouse and the Saints' Roost Museum or visit the Sandell Drive Inn, which is open every Friday and Saturday.

To explore more:
www.barhduderanch.com
www.texasescapes.com/TexasPanhandleTowns/Clarendon-Texas.htm

South Texas Splendor in Rio Grande City!

Margo Ranch Bunkhouse

Get away from it all with a weekend at the famous Margo Ranch Bunkhouse. Enjoy this South Texas wildlife and nature retreat located just outside of Rio Grande City with its pristine mornings and cool nights. The ranch offers the opportunity to view a wide array of native Texas flora and fauna.

To explore more: www.hotel-guides.us/texas/rio-grande-city-tx-hotels.html

La Borde House

Enjoy a weekend stay at La Borde House in Rio Grande City. This 1897 two-story brick structure was originally built as a store and residence by French immigrant immigrant Francoise La Borde and later converted to become the Ringgold Hotel. After falling into disrepair the hotel was restored to become the beauty that it is today, complete with a bougainvillea-covered courtyard.

To explore more:
www.city-data.com/city/Rio-Grande-City-Texas.html La Borde House (956) 487-5101

Unable to make your getaway this cool, cool season? Be sure and keep up-to-date with what's happening in rural Texas by checking the Texas Yes! Web site, www.texasyes.org and clicking on the Events tab.

David Glessner
Texas Department of Agriculture
May 2007

Practical, soothing and always appreciated, body care products make perfect scents. Give them as gifts or pamper yourself, then relax in a shower of thanks.

As Mother's Day approaches (May 13), the Texas Department of Agriculture reminds you to remember Mom with a personalized basket of soaps, lotions and other assorted body care products. Decorative and aromatic, body care products make a great addition to any tub or sink while also helping to restore the skin's luster.

For help with good, clean, gift-giving fun, visit the many GO TEXAN member companies specializing in quality body care products.

"The variety of Texas-produced soaps and skin care products reminds us that the scope of Texas agriculture is as vast as it is diverse," said Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples. "Agriculture is an everyday part of our lives, and our Texas producers are committed to bringing consumers the finest quality products."

If soapsuds are Mom's idea of squeaky-clean fun, visit Mama Says Wash! (www.mamasayswash.com/) for a full line of handmade, designer bathing products. Packed with fragrant scents that create a luxurious lather, soaps from Mama Says Wash! are derived from natural ingredients and oils and are free of harsh detergents, hardeners, sulfates and other skin-damaging ingredients. Infused with naturally moisturizing glycerin and scented like oatmeal, milk and honey, peppermint, tea tree or lavender, Mama Says Wash! produces soothing soaps that pamper all skin types.

Another oasis of relaxation calls from the wild outdoors where Mother Nature gets put on a pedestal at A Wild Soap Bar (www.awildsoapbar.com/). Try soaps made from olive oil, organic herbs, coconut oil, aloe vera and vegetable butters. Rich in antioxidants and skin nutrients, soaps from A Wild Soap Bar avoid synthetic ingredients that, over time, may dry or damage skin. Choose from soap scents including bluebonnet, honey oat, sassafras, sunflower and pecan praline. Even the packaging is eco-friendly. As they say at A Wild Soap Bar, it's easy to be clean and green.

After the Rayne (www.aftertherayne.com/) is another company that showers customers in bath and body products. Get your hands on Elegant Rayne Lotion and prepare to feel its moisturizing qualities as it soothes and replenishes without all the greasy residue. Made from scratch with natural ingredients including emu oil and a natural sulfur chemical called MSM, Elegant Rayne Lotion leaves hands and body feeling revitalized and silky smooth. After the Rayne also treats your feet with its 100 percent natural Splashing in the Rayne Mint Foot Cream. Awaken those tired toes and heal those heels with the cooling sensations of peppermint, spearmint and menthol.

From the tips of the toes to the end of the nose, Susan's Soaps and More (www.susansoaps.com/) helps put your best face forward with all-natural facial serums, masques and muds. Whether deep cleaning, moisturizing or exfoliating, Susan's Soaps and More can help free your face of impurities while replenishing your youthful glow. Even better, many of Susan's products specifically target dry, itchy skin with a combination of minerals, honey and the essential oils of basil, lime and sage. Face scrubs are offered in scents of lavender, geranium and almond. Also try the body butters, salt glows, sugar scrubs and hydrosols for a full skin-care regime. At Susan's Soaps and More it's only natural to go all-natural.

Man, Oh Man!

The demand for quality skin care products calls for more than flowery fragrances these days, so many GO TEXAN companies are offering masculine bath products for discerning male consumers. From soaps and lotions to shampoos and sports creams, men can get quality skin care and body products from many GO TEXAN companies, including those mentioned above and those listed below:

• Annie's Soap Barn (www.anniessoapbarn.com/) in Kerrville offers a number of men's soaps including one called Good Ol' Boy Beer Soap. Made with the natural moisture-locking humectant qualities of beer and scented in a bay rum fragrance, this soap is enriched with skin-enhancing oils and soy proteins, while smelling as masculine as it namesake.

• Heritage Handmade Soaps (www.heritagehandmadesoaps.com/) of San Marcos offers a rugged men's bath bar called Cowboy soap. Made with coconut, palm and olive, it's perfect for cleaning up after a hard day's work.

• For a clean, close shave with the added protective qualities of aloe vera, try George's Aloe Vera Shaving Cream from Warren Laboratories Inc. (www.warrenlabsaloe.com/) located in Abbott. Say goodbye to razor burn and hello to smooth, soft skin.

For more information about GO TEXAN body care products and producers, visit www.gotexan.org/ or contact Mary York, TDA's coordinator for fiber marketing, at (512) 463-7472 or mary.york@tda.state.tx.us. GO TEXAN is a comprehensive marketing campaign promoting Texas agricultural products, including food, fiber, livestock and horticulture.