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Taking care of your Loved One Is What We Do BEST!

It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always

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Home Care In Bertram, TX

Home Care Bertram, TX

They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.

However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Historical Marker gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.

Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Bertram, TX is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Bertram, TX

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The Always Best Care Difference

Since 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.

Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.

The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.

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TESTIMONIALS

“I work for this team and it's a wonderful team , great communication and support for our clients, their family members and our caring team of staff .”

Antoinette G.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Ken and Bonnie are wonderful people to help care for your loved ones. their staff was so caring to my mother and so nice to my family I highly recommend them to take care of your loved ones. I think there ought to be more than just five stars to give them”

Mark A.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Ken and Bonnie were wonderful to work with. They were able to provide my mother with care and a very short notice. Their staff was some of the most caring people that I've ever met. Not only were they wonderful to my mother but also to my family. I would highly recommend using them.”

Mark A.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Very professional and welcoming people so I would definitely recommend my friends and family to Always Best Care in Boerne.”

Laurie K.
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TESTIMONIALS

“The owner is so understanding and supportive of how I want my loved ones cared for. He and his staff actually listen to what I would like done for my parents. Very thoughtful, very professional and very caring. It’s such a relief to have help in caring for my loved ones”

Kristen B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“ALWAYS BEST CARE is certainly a warm & caring business owned & operated by Ken Thomas. I certainly would recommend them for you or your loved ones excellent care.”

Shirley S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Kenneth is kind, patient, experienced and knowledgeable. We are thankful to him for all his efforts and for going above and beyond.”

Chae S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“For those who are searching for qualified caregivers for their loved ones, contact Ken Thomas at Always Best Care Senior Services. Mr. Thomas provides an authentic and professional guiding hand when discussing available services for your precious senior family members. When it is time for a beloved senior to receive assistance, Mr. Thomas understands the importance of providing trustworthy and quality support.”

Melissa C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Ken leads his Always Best Care Senior Services Agency with compassion for his clients and their families. He is a local senior care expert and leader in his community. If you are need of assistance in navigating your local senior care options, then do not hesitate to give Ken a call!”

Kelly B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Kenneth is knowledgeable and trustworthy. I can’t recommend him enough. You’re in good hands with Kenneth.”

Chae S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I will be forever grateful for the love you showered upon us and my grandmother”

Jill &.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Bertram, TX?

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Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.

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When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.

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The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.

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At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.

 Senior Care Bertram, TX

Types of Elderly Care in Bertram, TX

To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:

Personal Care

Personal Care Services

If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.

Common personal care services include assistance with:

  • Eating
  • Mobility Issues
  • Incontinence
  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Grooming

Respite Care Bertram, TX
Home Helper

Home Helper Services

Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.

Common home helper care services include assistance with:

  • Medication Reminders
  • Meal Preparation
  • Pet Care
  • Prescription Refills
  • Morning Wake-Up
  • Walking
  • Reading
 Caregivers Bertram, TX
Companionship Services

Companionship Services

Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Wild Oats Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.

Common companionship services include:

  • Grocery Shopping
  • Transportation to Appointments
  • Nutritional Assistance
  • Conversation
  • Planning Outings
  • Completing Errands
  • Transportation to Community
  • Events and Social Outings
Home Care Bertram, TX
Respite Care

Respite Care Services

According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local The Standard on Vaughan or visit J.V. “Pinky” Wilson Memorial Statue, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.

At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.

If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.

 In-Home Care Bertram, TX

Benefits of Home Care in Bertram, TX

Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:

Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.

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Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.

In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.

Here are just a few of the reasons why older men and women prefer to age at home:

How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?

A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.

With the help of elderly care in Bertram, TX, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.

Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.

Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.

For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.

More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.

In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.

With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.

 Elderly Care Bertram, TX

Affordable Care

In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.

Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.

At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.

In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:

If your loved one qualifies, Medicaid may help reduce in-home care costs. Review your TX's Medicaid program laws and benefits, and make sure your senior's financial and medical needs meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.
Attendance and aid benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.
Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.
Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.
Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.
 Senior Care Bertram, TX

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers.

When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.

Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.

At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Bertram, TX understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.

Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.

Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.

Assisted Living Referral Services

While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.

Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.


Respite Care Bertram, TX

At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.

Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Recreational Activities
  • Social Outings
  • Emergency Medical Response
  • Medication Monitoring
  • Family Visitation
  • Personal Care
 Caregivers Bertram, TX

At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.

Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.

Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:

  • Bertram Nursing Home & Rehabilitation Center
  • Bluebonnet Community Residence
  • Woodview Community Residence
  • Community Care Inc
  • Assisted Living- Where Do I Turn
Home Care Bertram, TX

For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.

 In-Home Care Bertram, TX

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:

A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way

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A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive

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Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

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Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.

If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.

At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Bertram, TX 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.

When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.

 Elderly Care Bertram, TX

Latest News in Bertram, TX

21+ Things to Do in Bertram, Texas This Weekend

A small town nestled in the Texas Hill Country; Bertram is an underrated city that actually has so many things to do this weekend if you’re in need of a mini vacation. You might be thinking to yourself… How many things to do in Bertram could there possibly be? This quaint town will pleasantly surprise you – There is history, horseback riding, wineries, parks, and so much more! Now, take your pick of all the things to do in Bertram, Texas!Table of ContentsCatch a Film at the Local TheaterEst...

A small town nestled in the Texas Hill Country; Bertram is an underrated city that actually has so many things to do this weekend if you’re in need of a mini vacation. You might be thinking to yourself… How many things to do in Bertram could there possibly be? This quaint town will pleasantly surprise you – There is history, horseback riding, wineries, parks, and so much more! Now, take your pick of all the things to do in Bertram, Texas!

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Catch a Film at the Local Theater

Established in 1935, the Globe Theatre is a historic building whose vintage charm has been revitalized, where locals and visitors can come and watch a classic film, enjoy live music, and partake in holiday events, like scary movies during Halloween.

Go Horseback Riding in the Texas Hill Country

When you’re looking for things to do in Bertram, definitely consider galivanting across the Texas hills on horseback. Colbert Ranch has a wonderful horseback riding program and includes helpful and knowledgeable staff, experienced & calm/friendly horses, and miles of beautiful scenic trails to explore! They also have hayrides, cowboy golf, and fishing, among other things! Create memories with your family that will last a lifetime.

Take a Wine Tour

Among the countless places to visit, Flanigan’s Texas Distillery & Winery is one of the vineyards you have to add to your list of things to do in Bertram! This historic building from 1904 has been transformed into what is now a wine-tasting room, owners Kevin & Dana opened up Flanigan’s to share their love of quality wines and spirits. Blending southern charm with their Irish roots, they have managed to create a cozy, swanky environment with your choice of a sommelier wine-tasting, distilled spirits, or one of their signature cocktails.

Located on 25 acres of land, Decadent Saint Winery doesn’t fall short of the gorgeous views of the Texas Hill Country. Their menu includes a list of fine wines and craft cocktails to choose from. There is also stunning outdoor seating and live entertainment on the weekends!

A winery inspired by Bertram Firefighters, KFire Winery and Vineyard has a broad selection of vino to choose from. Overlooking the stunning Texas Hill Country, you can experience a wine-tasting with your favorite people. The owners also offer Firefighters a complimentary glass of wine if they bring their patch – I’ll cheers to that!

Walk Through an Art Gallery

Going solo, this European artist, Museo Benini, opened his studio to the public back in the 1960s. Benini’s craft encompasses a variety of different styles, like figurative paintings and three-dimensional art pieces. His gallery is open on Saturdays by appointment, so you won’t have to miss out on adding it to your weekend list of things to do in Bertram. You can take a stroll inside the fine arts library or outside with the sculptures that international artists have designed over the years.

Snap Pictures at the Pumpkin Patch

If you happen to visit Bertram in the fall, drop by the Nomad Ranch. Come and take cute pictures and make memories. The pumpkin patch typically opens in early October and lasts until Halloween! To make a whole day out of it, Nomad Ranch also offers hayrides, pumpkin painting, and more!

Get a Workout in

If you don’t have time for all the outdoorsy things to do in Bertram, you can still get some movement in on your next Texas road trip. This all-women’s gym allows you to be surrounded by like-minded ladies who can support you in your health and fitness journey. EMPOWERED Women’s Fitness Center offers workout classes every day by certified instructors, and young ladies 12+ can join in too!

Things to Do Near Bertram, Texas

If you’re looking for a farmhouse-style ambiance and tasty wines, you should pop into the Torr Na Lochs Vineyard & Winery! Inspired by their travels to Scotland, Blake & Karen brought their vision to life by redesigning their ranch property into a vineyard for the public to come and enjoy a glass of vino.

Travel back in time and experience the history that Fort Croghan Grounds and Museum has to offer. To preserve what makes Burnet County what it is today, this lovely museum goes above and beyond to show locals and visitors just how rich the history is here! In October, they host Fort Croghan Day, and guess what? Admission is free!

For even more historical affairs, pay a visit to the Highland Lakes Squadron. A branch of the Commemorative Air Force, it is just a short 14-minute drive away, making it convenient to add to your list of things to do in Bertram. If you are a plane spotter at heart, this museum will blow you away…literally. They are home to some of the oldest aircrafts from the WWII era along with mementos and exhibits. Check out all that this vintage airplane museum has to offer!

In the heart of the Texas Hill Country and in the nearby town of Burnet, Longhorn Cavern State Park is one of those places that you just can’t pass up. They offer guided visits of the cave and walk you through the history of this beautiful Texas wonder.

Roll out your mountain bikes and go explore the Spider Mountain Bike Park, just 23 minutes out from Bertram. This is every cyclist’s dream destination! They have year-round, lift-served trails ranging from beginner to expert level, so there is a path for everyone! You can also find campsites and other lodging options for an overnight stay.

This stunning winery, located just 15 minutes outside of Bertram, is built on California grapes grown right here in Texas. Get the full vineyard experience with one of Thirsty Mule’s wine tastings. Oh, and did I mention that they are the only underground winery in all of Texas? Yeah. Enough said. It definitely needs to be on your list of things to do in Bertram!

If you or your travel buddy is more of a beer fan, there is a brewery in town you can tack onto your list of things to do in Bertram. There is no lack of booze at the San Gabriel River Brewery. This local beer factory is a great spot if you are searching for somewhere to enjoy a nice, cold beer in the Hill Country. They offer tastings, pints, growler fills, and more!

Explore the deep history that lies in the “Saratoga of the South”, otherwise known as the Keystone Square Museum. Helping to translate the story of Lampasas, Texas, this exhibit is full of old-timey antiques like the Hanna Springs Bathhouse, a card table from the early saloon, and a 1911 death basket that they used to use during the time of the Horrell-Higgins Feud in the 1870s!

Take your car out for a spin at this off-roading trail, Hidden Falls Adventure Park. This one is for all the adrenaline junkies who seek exciting experiences! If you want to make a weekend out of it, they offer camping grounds for you to lodge at, as well as shooting ranges. Bring your ride out and see where the road takes you!

Home to some of the most beautiful wildlife like the golden-cheeked warbler, the Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge maintains the animals and their native habitats that are flourishing in the Texas Hill Country. This is what makes the refuge so special!

Everything you desire out of a park is here at Jim Hogg Park, located 29 minutes outside of Bertram, Texas! Alongside a serene lake, you can take your boat out for the day, enjoy the beautiful weather, and go for a splash in the water. Did I mention that they also have great campsites, hiking/biking trails, in addition to hunting & fishing? Go check it out!

Cedar Breaks Park, a picturesque outdoor space, provides you with a fully equipped camping site to stay in along with warm showers & multiple dump stations. The activities are in abundance here, such as paddling, picnicking, boating, hiking, and so much more!

Pick your choice of train rides aboard the Hill Country Flyer. Ride into Bertram from Cedar Park for a 2-hour layover and do some exploring; ride the North Pole Flyer out of Bertram during the holidays; board the Wildflower Express during bluebonnet season with a quick 15-minute stop in Bertram, or the Pumpkin Express for a 30-minute stop at the Bertram depot’s pumpkin patch.

Things to Do This Weekend in Bertram, Texas: Final Thoughts

Although Bertram, Texas is a small town, they certainly make up for it with their abundance of things to do. If you are seeking out a road trip into the Texas Hill Country, don’t pass up this cute little city and be sure to use our list of things to do in Bertram for a fun-filled weekend of adventure!

Check out these guides to plan a whole road trip through part of the Texas Hill Country:

Shop, dine, and drink in Bertram

Bertram is a dynamo of a tiny Texas town, overflowing with excellent food, treasured shops, and special spirits. After visiting Bertram to try out Decadent Saint, a distillery that produces fruity, extra-hard mixers, I was interested in returning to the quaint city in the beautiful Hill Country. My day started at one of my favorite types of eateries, Donut Plus on East ...

Bertram is a dynamo of a tiny Texas town, overflowing with excellent food, treasured shops, and special spirits. After visiting Bertram to try out Decadent Saint, a distillery that produces fruity, extra-hard mixers, I was interested in returning to the quaint city in the beautiful Hill Country. My day started at one of my favorite types of eateries, Donut Plus on East Vaughn Street, or Texas 29 to those passing through. I love donuts and Czech kolaches, the latter being part of my family’s heritage. The Louisiana-style boudin-filled kolache I tried hit the spot. The sausage and cheese were wrapped in sweet kolache dough. As I was being served, cars lined up in the shop’s drive-through — it’s obviously a popular spot. Shopping always calls when visiting a new town, and Bertram has plenty of places to peruse. If you’re “outfitting” a patio, kitchen, or garden, step into the cool of . The friendly owner and her grandchildren design and craft most of the wares in the store. She creates the glassworks and holds classes to instruct others in this art. Her granddaughters make dainty earrings and necklaces.

Antiques abound in Bertram at with its beautiful selection of furniture, collectibles, jewelry, and interior accents. You’re sure to find a cherished piece for your home or business. If you’re a Bargain Betty like me, check out the Bertram Library Thrift Store, located next to the library at 140 N. Gabriel St. It’s a huge warehouse of goods, including furniture, clothing for all ages, children’s items, housewares, books, and almost anything you’d find in a department store! A treat is deserved after all that shopping, and BTX Coffee in the Bertram Library offers just that. Along with a full lineup of coffees and espressos, it sells the world-famous Texas Pecan Cakes. A creative couple started the shop with Mom’s recipe in 2016. They entered and won first place in the H-E-B Quest for Texas recipe contest in 2017. Made with loads of Goldwaithe pecans, the cake is an incredible Texas treat.

The city of Bertram was established in 1882 and has buildings that date back to the 1850s. Flanigan’s Distillery and Winery occupies four historic downtown buildings. Staff photo by Alecia Ormsby

In the afternoon, you have your choice of beverages. Flanigan’s Texas Distillery and Winery led the way with tastings of its products. Smooth potato moonshine, corn whiskey, and grape grappa are delightful drinks. The Texas American Gothic was my favorite. Chardonnay, red and white blends, a red table wine, and an unusual Tannat fill the wine list. Creative, homemade sandwiches, meat dishes, and breads are served from a menu that changes daily. Owners Dana and Kevin Flanigan plan to open a coffee shop on the grounds. For entertainment, the historic Globe Theatre shows classic movies on Friday nights in the summertime and hosts live music, special events, and private parties year-round. Built in 1935, it seats nearly 250 people on two levels and features a stage and a dance floor.

Bertram hosts the annual Oatmeal Festival along with the nearby community of Oatmeal. This bench promoting the hometown event sits in front of the Bertram Library Thrift Store, 140 N. Gabriel St. Staff photo by Alecia Ormsby

The city of Bertram puts on special events several times a year. The last weekend in April brings the Art, Wine and Herb Festival, and the fall features the Oatmeal Festival. The event is a grand celebration that takes place in Bertram and the nearby tiny town of Oatmeal with a parade, oatmeal baking contests, live entertainment, and vendors. Holiday gatherings include Halloween Downtown in October and Country Christmas the first Saturday in December. That’s a lot of activity for a small town of fewer than 2,000 people. Bertram really comes alive on the weekends with its shops, restaurants, and bars consistently open. The delightful town of Bertram has friendly residents that welcomed me with a smile. They shared so many bits of history that intrigued me to return for more food, drink, shopping, festivals, and stories.

IF YOU GO

Donut Plus 317 E. Vaughan St. Donuts and coffee, tacos, smoothies, and sandwiches for breakfast or lunch. El Rancho Mexican Restaurant 535 Texas 29 East Jalisco-inspired Mexican food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Fratelli Pizza 240 Texas 29 West Authentic Italian pizza for dine-in, takeout, or delivery. Hill Country Smokehouse 525 Texas 29 East Meat, meat, and more meat along with tacos, burgers, salads, and sides. Junction Cafe 102 Castleberry Ct. Classic American food for breakfast and lunch; dinner on Monday nights only.

The Red Rooster 260 Texas 29 West Antiques galore! Carefully cultivated and displayed. Bertram Library Thrift Store 140 N. Gabriel St. Wall-to-wall selection of everything AND the kitchen sink. Mosaic Garden Treasures 143 E. Vaughan St. Locally produced, creative works with a few vintage items.

Decadent Saint 3547 Texas 29 West Tantalizing extra-hard mixers served in an enticing space. Flanigan’s Texas Distillery and Winery 330 N. Lampasas St. Sample wine and spirits in an early 1900s building and former movie set.

The Globe Theatre 132 W. Vaughan St.

Summer movies and live music in a renovated art deco-style theater. Twisted Ranch 7345 FM 243 West in Oatmeal A gem of a place for a wedding, family reunion, or business event. Bertram Flyer Depot 170 S. Gabriel St. The 1912 depot is a stopping place for a 44-mile vintage train ride. This is by no means a comprehensive list. So, locals, let visitors know your favorite places to shop, dine, and drink in the comments section below. [email protected]

Bertram's annual Oatmeal Festival to be held this weekend

Bertram will come alive once again this weekend as it hosts the 46th annual Oatmeal Festival.The event is deeply rooted in local traditions and draws in residents and visitors from across Texas to celebrate the cultural heritage of oats and the close-knit community of Bertram.In years past, the festival has always been held during Labor Day weekend, but John Baladez, Oatmeal Festival board president, said the board narrowed down the festival’s move to one friction point: weather."In hopes of cooler weather, we...

Bertram will come alive once again this weekend as it hosts the 46th annual Oatmeal Festival.

The event is deeply rooted in local traditions and draws in residents and visitors from across Texas to celebrate the cultural heritage of oats and the close-knit community of Bertram.

In years past, the festival has always been held during Labor Day weekend, but John Baladez, Oatmeal Festival board president, said the board narrowed down the festival’s move to one friction point: weather.

"In hopes of cooler weather, we decided to move the Oatmeal Festival from Labor Day weekend to the end of the month,” he said.

The festival will take place over two days, on Saturday, Sept. 30, from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday, Oct. 1, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

It will kick off Saturday with the annual "Run for Your Oats" 3.3-mile run at 8:03 a.m. Following the run, the grand parade will take place at 10:30 a.m. on Vaughan Street, featuring colorful floats from local businesses and community groups.

The festival will also feature the annual oatmeal bake-off, where bakers and food enthusiasts can compete to create the most delicious oatmeal-based dishes, and festival goers will have the chance to taste and vote for their favorite oatmeal creations.

Baladez added that the festival will have more than 100 vendors, from jewelry and clothing to paintings and home décor, for visitors to browse.

“Around 110 vendors will be open for business, selling everything from arts and crafts to wine and wares,” he said.

A pet parade, washer tournament, live music and a street dance will fill the Saturday agenda. The street dance will begin at 8 p.m. in downtown Bertram with local band The Steel Belts. The headliner for the evening will be JesseLee Jones and BRAZILBILLY.

Beyond the food and fun, the Oatmeal Festival in Bertram is a celebration of community, Baladez said.

"Different dates, same great small-town festival,” he added. “Bring your sugar to the Oatmeal Festival, and we will see you there.”

For more information on different events occurring at the festival, including pricing, times and locations, visit oatmealfestival.org.

One of Texans’ favorite ways to ring in the new year is by celebrating with fireworks, from hand-held sparklers to huge shows with many pops of bright colors. However, Texas has laws to ensure safety during the holiday season.

Fireworks became available for purchase Dec. 20, and will stay open until Jan. 1 for New Years. Also, firework stands and sellers must obtain a permit, according to the Texas Department of Insurance.

“The very last day, I will have people lined up down County Road 214 [to purchase fireworks],” Karman Tindell with American Fireworks said. “There were 308 customers that day [last year].”

Some firework stands in Liberty Hill include:

There are also plenty of stand options around the Liberty Hill area, including:

Tindell with American Fireworks said one of the most popular fireworks she sells in Liberty Hill includes artillery. This is any of the fireworks that people must operate themselves.

“Liberty Hill people like the ones that you drop in the tube because it seems like they want to be in on the action,” Tindell said. “They don’t want to just light it and let it go, they want to be the ones actually doing it. So they drop the balls in the tubes and light them individually.”

Tindell is also a teacher in Liberty Hill Independent School District and said her favorite part about selling fireworks is connecting with the community. She started selling fireworks in 2020.

“I have the best customers,” Tindell said. “They come back year after year. I’ve seen their kids grow up; it’s been pretty cool.”

It is important to follow safety guidelines put in place by the county and state. It is illegal to set off fireworks inside city limits and 5,000 feet out of them. It is also important that all firework festivities are supervised and operated by an adult. However you choose to celebrate 2024, be sure to follow these rules to keep the city and its residents safe.

“I think that some people have a negative attitude about [fireworks],” Tindell said. “Maybe because they haven’t tried them. Give them a try.”

TXDW Houston — Dragons, Pagodas and All Things Chinoiserie

Aldous Bertram at Found (Photo by Johnny Than)School is in session! For the final event of Texas Design Week Houston, guests came with notebooks, pens, and cocktails in hand for a master class on dragons, pagodas, and all things chinoiserie led by the eternally charming Aldous Bertram. Designer, illustrator, and art historian Bertram — who holds a Ph.D. from T...

Aldous Bertram at Found (Photo by Johnny Than)

School is in session! For the final event of Texas Design Week Houston, guests came with notebooks, pens, and cocktails in hand for a master class on dragons, pagodas, and all things chinoiserie led by the eternally charming Aldous Bertram. Designer, illustrator, and art historian Bertram — who holds a Ph.D. from Trinity at Cambridge on the historical influence of China on English garden design and architecture — shared knowledge and gorgeous images from his book Dragons & Pagodas: A Celebration of Chinoiserie (Vendome), which is filled with stunning imagery, as well as delightful illustrations by Bertram himself.

The tome has quickly become a must-have for interior design insiders and chinoiserie enthusiasts alike. Found proprietor Ruth Davis was on hand as guests shopped the stunning assortment of home goods, chinoiserie included. Aldous, we can’t get enough. Some ideas for your next book: All Things Blue and White; How Much Chinoiserie Is Enough? (obviously a trick question); Hand-Painted Wallpaper: A History; and Lusting for Lacquer. You have my card.

PC Seen: Daphne Laplante, Linley Stroud, David and Peggy Matthews, Kat Matthews, Austin Estes, Devon Liedtke, Michael Mandola, Sari Imber, Lexi Killion, Diandra Anwar, Dolores Cavatore, Karen Sachar, Sandra Lucas, Abbi Parker, Emmy Davis, Carol Isaak Barden, Neill Davis, Callie and Dillon Baker, Gilbert Blattner, Vinicius Kobylko, Tereza Blattner, Shannon Smith, Blair Ushnick, Silvana Batllori, Martha Duhne, Paola Neri, Courtney Hill Fertitta, Kristy Geary, AJ Bogs, Mimi Williams, and Bret Duhon.

Texas Design Week Houston sponsors: New Orleans Auction Galleries, Monogram Luxury Appliances, Decorative Center Houston.

On a lush corner lot near Dallas’ “Private School Corridor” sits an unassuming mid-century modern house. The one-story classic looks diminutive beneath the wealth of mature trees that surround it, but the 1957 home’s unique story looms as large as its towering oaks. Designed by a man named Harley Lee Tracy for his family, the Dallas home was first sold in 1960 when Tracy was tapped by Rockwall International to help design the space shuttle for NASA. At the end of 2023, 3960 Cobblestone Drive hit the market for only the second time in its 66-year history, with Tracy’s original vision almost entirely intact.

Sure, you may balk at the long stretches of beige carpet and ancient light switches, or recoil at the schoolmarm-era-esque built-ins. But that would be letting less-than-in-vogue (and easily changed) aesthetics distract you from the true magic within its bones — the exquisite walls of windows, the dramatic vaulted pine ceilings, and the meditative landscaping.

In the right hands, 3960 Cobblestone Drive could become one of the most interesting cases of preservation in Dallas. However, a more likely alternative fate is one the current sellers are well aware of.

In a statement to Circa, a digital platform showcasing notable historic homes for sale across the United States and Canada, the sellers shared the following message (along with childhood photos and newspaper clippings to back up the home’s bonafides):

Take a virtual tour of the mid-century stunner and pass it along to those who might preserve its beauty. 3960 Cobblestone Drive is for sale with Brent King Group and is currently listed for $849,000.

Significant storm damage not caused by tornado in Bertram, NWS says

BERTRAM, Texas (KXAN) — In its initial investigation, the National Weather Service says straight-line winds caused significant storm damage in Bertram in Burnet County during Monday night’s severe thunderstorms.At least one century-old building in Bertram collapsed in heavy winds possibly caused by a microburst just before 10 p.m. There was a possibility a tornado caused the damage, but NWS officials don’t believe that is the case. A full assessment should come later Tuesday.The damage is spread all over town,...

BERTRAM, Texas (KXAN) — In its initial investigation, the National Weather Service says straight-line winds caused significant storm damage in Bertram in Burnet County during Monday night’s severe thunderstorms.

At least one century-old building in Bertram collapsed in heavy winds possibly caused by a microburst just before 10 p.m. There was a possibility a tornado caused the damage, but NWS officials don’t believe that is the case. A full assessment should come later Tuesday.

The damage is spread all over town, and one of the most damaged buildings housed a local business, the Bertram Blend and Boutique.

“Oh my god, what are we gonna do? It’s tough,” owner Amanda Powell said. “COVID was tough, I mean, this is definitely going to be another hurdle to cross. Hopefully we’ll be able to do it. I built the business up from nothing.”

Bertram Volunteer Fire Chief Bobby Huffstuttler posted a Facebook Live showing the damage. In the video, he says he believes a possible small tornado hit the town. He walked around showing and detailing all the damage and asking everyone to stay home.

“The A.B. McGill building is heavily damaged. The Boutique, a lot of damage to the Boutique. See all these huge rocks, came off the A.B. McGill building,” Huffstuttler said in the video.

Huffstuttler added traffic is being diverted, and Pedernales Electric Cooperative crews are out working trying to restore power. In the video, you could see the storms also toppled a street light, which was laying in the road.

A.B. McGill & Co. General Store, which was built in 1905, was reduced to rubble.

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KXAN’s Avery Travis went out to Bertram shortly after storms passed through the area and spoke with business owners and emergency officials.

KXAN Chief Meteorologist David Yeomans and Meteorologist Nick Bannin identified what may have been a small tornado in Bertram just before 10 p.m.

Red colors indicate winds moving away from the radar. Green indicates winds moving toward the radar. Anytime you get bright green next to bright red, it indicates that the storm’s winds close to the ground are rotating.

The bright pink spots also indicate straight-line winds, which could be as powerful or as damaging as a small tornado even if a tornado does not actually form.

If the radar structure of the storm shows a curve or “hook,” it can also be a sign of a tornado.

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