During a 2015 visit to Goldfield Ghost Town in Apache Junction, I photographed The Church on the Mount, a small desert chapel perched against the backdrop of the Superstition Mountains. It’s one of those places where the Old West feels close enough to touch—sun‑bleached wood, quiet air, and a sense of history that settles in around you.
Goldfield built this church with authentic period details, giving it the charm of a true 1800s frontier chapel. It’s a simple structure, but that simplicity is exactly what makes it so striking in the Arizona light. The moment I captured it, the whole scene felt timeless.
The church features:
An organ from the 1880s
A pulpit repurposed from a Hammond Theatre pipe organ
1931 pews built in late‑1800s style
Wagon‑wheel chandeliers
A rough‑hewn wooden cross
Goldfield jokingly calls it a great place to “get hitched or ditched”
You can find this image in my Picfair Store — The Church on the Mount. It’s a little slice of Arizona history framed in warm desert tones.
Skeletal Rider: A Galveston Snapshot with Grit and Grin
Today’s spotlight focuses on an existing image to my Picfair Store: Skeletal Rider — a stylized tribute to Galveston’s outlaw charm and the playful spirit of the Gulf Coast.
This photo captures the iconic Skeleton Bike from Doc Holliday’s Roadhouse a Galveston bar known for its quirky, Americana-meets-pirate, vibe. The skeleton rider is part of the bar’s themed decor, a nod to Doc Holliday’s Wild West legacy, and the island’s rough-and-tumble mystique.
Here’s the scoop on the Skeleton Bike:
It’s Decor: A signature piece of the bar’s outlaw/pirate aesthetic, often featuring a skeleton rider.
Galveston Vibe: Embodies the island’s adventurous spirit, pirate lore, and outlaw history.
Photo Op: Designed to spark imagination and storytelling — more atmosphere than solemn monument.
Check it out on my Picfair Store and license it for your own storytelling or design projects.
As the fireworks fade and the calendar turns, I want to take a moment to wish each and every one of you a very Safe & Happy New Year. Whether you’re ringing in 2026 with family, friends, or a quiet cup of coffee, I hope this fresh start brings a sense of peace, possibility, and purpose.
This year, may we all strive to be:
Healthier — in body, mind, and spirit. Let’s take care of ourselves and each other.
Wealthier — not just in dollars, but in time, relationships, and joy. True wealth shows up in the moments we share and the memories we make.
Wiser — learning from the past, staying curious, and growing with intention.
Here in Texas, I’m grateful for the chance to build something meaningful — through creativity and connection. I’m excited to keep sharing stories, graphics, and ideas that reflect both warmth and digital savvy.
Thanks for being part of the journey and wishing you Peace, Love, and Joy throughout the year! Let’s make 2026 a year to remember.
Loyal Spirit, Loyal Morning: Enjoying This Black Rifle Coffee Roast
There’s something about a quiet morning that makes a good cup of coffee feel like a handshake with the day. For me, that handshake comes in the form of Loyal Spirit — a light roast from Black Rifle Coffee Company that’s as smooth as a quiet morning and faithful as a pawsome pal sitting beside me.
I first tried Loyal Spirit on a mid-morning break, the kind where the sun is high, the air is warm, and the world feels just right. I popped one of the 22-count K-Cup pods into my Keurig, and within moments, the aroma filled the room — bright citrus, a hint of chocolate, and a whisper of berries. It’s a light roast, but don’t let that fool you. It’s got character. It’s got heart.
The flavor is smooth and drinkable, perfect for folks like me who want a coffee that doesn’t punch you in the throat but still stands tall. I sip it slowly, usually outside, letting the morning light stretch across the yard while the steam rises like a promise. It’s a moment of calm, a ritual of readiness. Always faithful, always delicious.
That tagline isn’t just marketing fluff. It’s how this roast feels. Loyal Spirit is the kind of coffee that shows up for you — whether you’re tackling a busy workday, planning your next vacay, or just enjoying a quiet moment with your dog and the breeze.
And here’s the part that makes it even better: every box helps support the veteran community. That means every sip is a small act of gratitude. It’s America’s Coffee, and it’s brewed with purpose.
Compatible with Ninja, Keurig (1.0 and 2.0), Hamilton Beach, Chulux, and Cuisinart machines, these shelf-stable pods are ready when you are. I keep a box stocked in the pantry, knowing that when I need a moment of clarity, Loyal Spirit is just a button away.
So here’s to mornings that matter, coffee that connects, and the spirit of loyalty — in every pod, every pour, and every peaceful pause.
Why Microsoft Rewards Is One of the Easiest Wins Online — And Why Signing Up Through My Link Helps Us Both
If you’ve followed my blog for a while — whether for tech tips, digital‑life optimization, or a little Texas‑flavored practicality — you know I love sharing tools that genuinely help people. Not gimmicks. Not “too good to be true” nonsense. Just real value for real folks.
Microsoft Rewards is one of those rare programs that delivers exactly what it promises: free rewards for doing things you already do every day.
And now, thanks to Microsoft’s Refer‑and‑Earn program, you can get an even bigger boost when you sign up using my referral link — and I get a little something too. It’s a simple, friendly win‑win.
What Is Microsoft Rewards?
Microsoft Rewards is a free loyalty program built into the Microsoft ecosystem. If you use Bing, Microsoft Edge, Xbox, or even just your Microsoft account, you’re already halfway there.
Here’s why people love it:
Earn points automatically for searching, browsing, quizzes, shopping, and Xbox activities
Redeem points for gift cards, sweepstakes entries, or charitable donations
No fees, no subscriptions, no catch
Daily streaks and bonuses keep things fun
Family‑friendly activities like trivia and quizzes
It’s one of the easiest passive‑earning programs online.
The Referral Program: Bigger Bonuses for Both of Us
Microsoft’s official referral program adds a whole new layer of value — and the details are surprisingly generous.
Here’s what Microsoft states:
Earn up to 15,000 points per month just by referring friends
You can refer friends using your unique link, and Microsoft will reward you for helping others join the program.
What YOU get when someone signs up using your link
1 point for every Bing search they make
Points can add up fast if your friends use Bing regularly
You can earn up to 15,000 points per month from referrals alone
That’s a lot of free gift‑card potential.
What THEY get when they join through your link
Up to 1,300 bonus points after completing the Welcome Quest
A head start toward their first reward
Access to all the daily sets, streaks, and bonuses
It’s a friendly nudge that helps them start strong.
What Can You Redeem With Microsoft Rewards?
This is where the fun begins. Your points can be redeemed for:
Why I Thoroughly Enjoy Arrowhead Coffee Pods by Native Ground Coffee
Every now and then, you come across a coffee that doesn’t just wake you up—it centers you. For me, that coffee is Arrowhead, the medium roast coffee pod from Native Ground Coffee. I’ve tried plenty of blends over the years, but Arrowhead has earned a permanent spot in my morning routine for one simple reason: it delivers exactly what I want from a cup of coffee without ever trying too hard.
Arrowhead is described as a tribute to precision and balance, inspired by the timeless strength of the arrowhead itself. And honestly, that’s exactly how it feels in the cup. It’s smooth, steady, and reliable—never bitter, never overpowering, never fussy. Just a clean, balanced flavor that helps me start my day with clarity.
A Flavor Profile That Just Works
What first hooked me was the medium body and medium acidity. I love a coffee that has presence without punching me in the face at 5 a.m., and Arrowhead hits that sweet spot beautifully. The flavor is rounded and approachable, the kind of cup you can sip slowly during a quiet morning or enjoy on autopilot when you’re rushing out the door.
But the real star here is the sweet, smooth chocolate note that runs through every sip. It’s subtle—not sugary, not artificial—just a natural richness that makes the coffee feel comforting and indulgent without being heavy. It’s the kind of flavor that makes you pause for a moment and appreciate it.
Crafted for Simplicity and Strength
Native Ground Coffee describes Arrowhead as sharp, purposeful, and reliable, and I couldn’t agree more. There’s something refreshing about a coffee that doesn’t try to overwhelm you with exotic tasting notes or complicated roast profiles. Arrowhead is crafted for people who appreciate simplicity done well.
It’s the kind of roast that feels right for:
Early mornings when you need a steady start
Quiet moments of reflection
A mid-day reset when you want something smooth and grounding
Guests who appreciate a universally enjoyable cup
Because it’s a medium roast from Central America, it brings out the natural complexity of the beans without overshadowing their delicate flavors. Every cup feels intentional—balanced, smooth, and consistent.
Why It Stands Out for Me
I enjoy Arrowhead because it fits seamlessly into my day. It doesn’t demand attention, but it rewards it. It’s dependable, flavorful, and incredibly easy to enjoy. Whether I’m gearing up for a busy morning or taking a moment to breathe, Arrowhead gives me exactly what I need: a clean, balanced cup that keeps me steady.
In a world full of overcomplicated coffee trends, Arrowhead feels like a return to what matters—good beans, thoughtful roasting, and a flavor profile that always finds its mark.
If you’re looking for a medium roast that’s smooth, grounded, and quietly exceptional, Arrowhead by Native Ground Coffee is absolutely worth trying. It’s become a staple in my kitchen, and I have a feeling it’ll become one in yours too.
Be sure to visit Native Ground Coffee and pick up a box of Arrowhead Coffee Pods for yourself.
Golden Light and Blue Skies: Arizona’s Winter Magic
Late December in the Sonoran Desert… where the sun still blazes, the skies stay impossibly blue, and the mighty saguaro stands tall like a sentinel of the Southwest. There’s something timeless and majestic about this landscape — rugged mountains, golden light, and cacti that seem to reach for the heavens. Arizona knows how to do winter with style.
Buy prints & digital downloads from my Picfair store by clicking or tapping the link below. Your generosity and support are appreciated!
Christmas Eve has a magic all its own, and one of the most delightful traditions is keeping an eye on Santa’s journey around the world. Whether you’re cozying up in your town with hot cocoa or helping the kids set out cookies, you can follow Santa in real time thanks to the NORAD Santa Tracker.
NORAD has been tracking Santa for 70 years, and they make it easy for families to join the fun. You can:
Call 877‑446‑6723 to hear the latest updates from NORAD’s Santa-tracking volunteers
It’s a simple way to bring a little extra wonder into your home tonight. So gather the family, refresh the map, and enjoy the countdown as Santa gets closer to Texas. Merry Christmas Eve, y’all!
Merry Christmas Eve, Y’all — A Little Light for the Season
Christmas Eve has a way of slowing the world down, even if just for a moment. The lights glow a little softer, the air feels a little sweeter, and the simple act of pausing reminds us how much goodness still lives in everyday life. As we gather tonight—whether around a bustling table, a quiet living room, or a late‑night shift—we’re all sharing the same season of hope.
So from my family to yours, I want to wish each and every one of you a Merry Christmas Eve. May this day wrap you in warmth, comfort, and the kind of joy that lingers long after the decorations come down.
Be Kind, Be Safe, Be Well
This time of year invites us to slow down and look around. Kindness doesn’t have to be grand to be meaningful. A smile at the grocery store, a patient moment in traffic, a quick message to someone you haven’t talked to in a while—these small gestures ripple outward in ways we may never see.
As you travel, cook, celebrate, or simply rest today, I hope you stay safe and take good care of yourself. The season shines a little brighter when we’re all well enough to enjoy it.
A Gentle Reminder: No One Should Feel Alone Tonight
For many, Christmas Eve is full of laughter and tradition. But for others, it can be a quiet or even heavy night. If you know someone spending the holiday alone, or someone far from their family, consider reaching out. A short visit, a phone call, or even a warm message can mean more than you realize.
And if you happen to be one of those spending this evening in solitude, please know this: you are seen, you are valued, and you are part of a much bigger community than you may feel in this moment.
Open Your Heart — And Maybe Your Home
If you’ve been thinking about adding a furry friend to your family, Christmas Eve is a beautiful time to remember the pets waiting in shelters. Dogs, cats, and all kinds of companions are hoping for a warm home and a loving human to call their own. Adoption changes their lives—and yours—in ways that are nothing short of magical.
Let Peace, Joy, and Love Lead the Way
Tonight, let the spirit of the season settle in. Let peace soften the edges of your day. Let joy find you in the small moments. Let love guide your words, your choices, and your connections.
Christmas Eve isn’t just a date on the calendar—it’s a feeling. A reminder that even in a busy world, we can choose gentleness. We can choose compassion. We can choose to be a light.
Wherever you are, whatever your traditions look like, and however you’re spending this evening, I hope your heart is full and your home—whether loud or quiet—feels warm.
Merry Christmas Eve, y’all. May peace, joy, and love surround you tonight and carry you into the days ahead.
There’s a unique warmth in these final days before Christmas arrives. The world feels like it’s holding its breath—lights glowing a little brighter, kitchens warming up a little earlier, and hearts stretching just a little wider. With only two days left until Christmas, y’all, the countdown is officially real.
Santa’s Almost Here
Whether you’ve got little ones pacing the hallway or grown-ups pretending they’re not checking NORAD every hour, the excitement is building. Stockings are hanging, cookies are planned, and the question on every kid’s mind is the same: “Do you think Santa’s close yet?”
There’s a sweetness to this anticipation—those quiet moments when the house settles down and you can almost imagine sleigh bells in the distance. These are the memories that stick.
Cooking Up the Favorites
This is the time when kitchens across Texas start smelling like pure holiday joy. Maybe it’s your family’s famous tamales, a perfectly glazed ham, or that one dessert that only comes out once a year. Maybe you’re mixing up a batch of Christmas margaritas, hot buttered rum, or a simple bourbon neat to sip while the oven does its thing.
Whatever your traditions look like, these last two days are for leaning into them—slowly, intentionally, and with a whole lot of love.
Gathering Close With Family
The best part of Christmas isn’t the gifts or the glitter—it’s the people we share it with. These final days before the big morning are perfect for slowing down, turning off the noise, and soaking in the moments with the folks who make life feel full.
Board games on the table. Christmas movies on repeat. Kids running around with that unmistakable December energy. Laughter echoing through the house. These are the scenes that make the season feel real.
Holding Space for Those We Miss
As joyful as this time is, it’s also a season of remembering. Many families have empty chairs at the table this year—loved ones who are far away, serving, traveling, or no longer with us. If that’s you, know that you’re not alone.
Take a moment to honor them. Light a candle. Share a story. Say their name. Christmas has a way of bringing both joy and tenderness to the surface, and there’s room for all of it.
Two Days to Go
So here we are—just 48 hours from Christmas morning. The lights are twinkling, the lists are nearly checked off, and the spirit of the season is settling in like a warm blanket.
May these next two days be filled with good food, good company, and good memories. May your home feel peaceful, your heart feel full, and your hope feel renewed.
Merry (almost) Christmas, to all. Let’s make these last moments count.
realgilmorris 