Author: Techpro

By Kristi Antley There is no magic recipe for success when it comes to romance. Even when you think you have found “your person”, longevity and bliss aren’t promised. While we all have basic needs such as affection, security, companionship, and acceptance, how those needs are recognized, met, and maintained can vary from individual to individual. Although there are no easy solutions, genies in a bottle, or guarantees in the realm of love, studies prove that the most solid relationships are built primarily on friendship, mutual respect, patience, and open communication. These components must be evident along with daily, intentional…

By Warren McInnis Hughes What’s the best way to say, “Happy Valentine’s Day” to a loved one? This could be a boyfriend, girlfriend, husband, wife, family member, or a special friend. Think about why they mean so much to you and what you appreciate most about your relationship. Recognizing loved ones doesn’t need to be expensive or complicated; a successful Valentine’s Day results from thoughtful planning and paying attention to the small details. Think about the person’s interests, hobbies, health, and schedule— would they appreciate flowers, tools, candy, or an intimate dinner the most? If they have small children, perhaps…

2024 is here! Whoop, whoop! Every January I get so excited anticipating what is to come. My daily routine seems to run uniformly for the most part, but then there are always a few “surprises” along the way that keep things interesting. This year I will turn the big 5-0, half a century–FIVE decades! However you choose to say it, I am just happy to be here. For those who may not have reached this milestone, YES, it truly is just a number, not a death sentence! Nanny used to say, “It doesn’t matter how old you get, in your…

By Tara Hammond “How do we change the world? One random act of kindness at a time.” -Morgan Freeman As 2024 makes its grand entrance, most of us begin to revisit our previous New Year’s resolutions. You may have successfully improved your physical, mental, or financial health, or perhaps you “missed the mark” because of unrealistic goals. Regardless of the outcome of your past attempts, there is a way to guarantee personal satisfaction in 2024: resolve to do more to help others, the environment, and your community. Research shows that helping or contributing without expecting something in return leads to…

By Martha Brown We often hear people exclaim, “It’s so hard raising kids today!” Unfortunately, they are right–every generation has its challenges. In today’s technology-driven and fast-paced society, effective communication and common courtesy are more crucial than ever. As parents and guardians, we should ensure that children are raised in a way that promotes essential skills and manners. “Children are not born simply good or bad, and we should never give up on them. They need adults who will help them become caring, respectful, and responsible for their communities at every stage of their childhood,” reports Richard Weissbourd, Harvard University…

By Celeste Humphries Congratulations! Once you and your special someone have decided to “tie the knot,” one of the first and most important tasks is choosing the perfect location for the ceremony. Whether you are planning a simple or extravagant event, the venue itself will influence many future decisions, including how your matrimonial budget is dispersed. There is no such thing as the “right” engagement length; every couple’s timeline is different with varying resources, visions, and circumstances. Unless you have a specific sentimental day in mind, venue availability, size, and seasonal weather patterns will naturally narrow the list of potential…

By Mary Ann Hutcheson If you aren’t familiar with Chapin’s Chickenbutt Donuts, drop by the popular donut shop and meet owners Tre and Sue Dabney. The whimsical business name comes from the beloved playground song, “Guess What, Chicken Butt?” In case you’re wondering, chicken does not appear in the donut ingredients. Although both Dabneys had extensive experience in the service industry, they took jobs at Amazon for six years after their children were born. “Grownup jobs,” says Tre. But the couple’s dream of opening their donut shop called for a change; their frequent discussions soon blossomed into an actual possibility.…

By Scott Vaughan Communicating “I love you” remains the most powerful message we can share with another human being. I’m not talking about “Love you, mean it,” or “Love you more” or “Love ya.” Nothing replaces the power of looking into another person’s eyes and saying, “I love you.” My great Aunt Mary (May) was tall and poised. Filterless, stern, and straightforward, when you visited Aunt May you had better have on your best behavior with hair combed and shirt tucked in. It saddened me to overhear an adult saying, “I have never heard May express her love for another…

As the seasonal temperatures plummet, the need to crank up the heater multiplies. What’s a quick way to knock the chill off without adjusting the thermostat? Thaw from the inside out with a piping hot bowl of soup! Wrap your hands around a bowl of the warm goodness and feel the chill in the air melt away. Our Town Magazine invites you to let these hearty, homemade comfort foods keep you toasty this winter. French Onion Soup Submitted by: The Blended Bakery Makes 4 to 6 servings INGREDIENTS: 6 sweet onions, large, roughly chopped 4 tbsp. Extra Virgin Olive Oil…

Whether visions of sugarplums are dancing in your head, or you’re toasting the approaching new year, these desserts are sure to brighten holiday celebrations before any New Year’s resolutions take effect. Throw caution to the wind and satisfy your sweet tooth with Our Town’s assortment of December Desserts submitted by Lexington locals. We wish you a joyous holiday season and delicious merriment as you enjoy these tasty treats! Easy New York Style Cheesecake with Raspberry Purée Submitted by: Kevin Boyd, Diablo’s Southwest Grill INGREDIENTS: 16 oz. cream cheese 1 3/4 c. sugar, divided 1/2 c. sour cream 2 eggs 2…