Ranching

In the heart of South Texas, nestled at the base of the hill country just south of Utopia, there's a remarkable transformation that has taken place, turning an abandoned horse barn into a dove hunter's paradise. Valdina Ranch & Lodge, a 1700-acre property off of CR 111, was once a cinder block horse barn with a history dating back to 1941. The barn had long been left to the elements, inhabited by owls, swallows, mice, snakes, and spiders, as no one had used it for horses since the untimely deaths of its former owners, Mr. and Mrs. E. F. Woodard, in 1943.

Many of us start off with certain preconceived notions about dogs. They might seem like a nuisance, capable of creating perpetual chaos, and often interfere with our solitary routines. However, sometimes, life takes an unexpected turn, and a faithful four-legged friend becomes an integral part of your world. In this South Texas rancher profile, we delve into a personal journey that began with skepticism but transformed into an unbreakable bond, all thanks to a remarkable hunting dog named Cinco.

In the vast expanse of South Texas, nestled between Pipe Creek and Boerne, lies the towering testament to engineering brilliance, the Double D Ranch, and its creator, L. L. “Dave” Davis. The ranch, a testament to Davis's visionary spirit, spans 740 acres of picturesque hill country landscape. At its pinnacle stands an awe-inspiring 101-foot-tall steel cross, a symbol of Davis's deep-rooted faith and unwavering determination.

In the sprawling landscapes of South Texas, where the legacy of ranching runs deep, there exists a visual storyteller whose lens breathes life into the tales of the land and its people. Larry Trulove, a seasoned photographer with a penchant for finding beauty in the simplest of moments, has carved a niche for himself in the hearts of thousands with his captivating imagery. From the expansive plains to the rugged charm of the oil country, Trulove's lens has faithfully documented the essence of a region where every frame narrates a story of resilience and spirit.

Meet Jason Michalak, a drag racing record-holder turned ranch owner in Con Can, Texas, proving that life's fastest moments can seamlessly transition into the slow, scenic beauty of the Hill Country.

In 2016, Michalak, along with his family, embarked on a bold journey to transform 750 acres of cedar-covered mountains into the Michalak Ranch. Armed with heavy machinery, he carved 30 miles of roads through challenging terrain, creating a haven atop a cedar mountain facing Highway 83.