"Building a Stronger Community Through Education, Information, and Inspiration"

Published monthly by the Villages of Westcreek Owners' Association

Communications Committee - March 2024, Edition!

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OPEN LETTER - DEEPLY TOUCHED BY YOUR KINDNESS

Dear Villages of Westcreek Community,

I am writing to express my deep personal gratitude for the outpouring of love and support the VWOA Board, Staff, and our community have shown me during this difficult time. Your kind words and thoughtful gestures have been a source of comfort and strength as I navigate the loss of my beloved wife, Yolanda.

I am genuinely overwhelmed by the generosity and compassion of this community. Your willingness to reach out and offer your condolences and help has meant more to me than words can express. It is heartwarming to know that such caring and supportive neighbors surround me.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your kindness and sympathy. Your thoughtfulness will never be forgotten.

Submitted by: Bill Fenstermacher

GOT A NEIGHBOR YOU WANT TO RECOGNIZE?

Remember that neighbors don’t have to live next door, just someone who lives in Westcreek. It could be as simple as a mom who helps out by picking up a child from school, a neighbor who cuts your yard for you just because, or brings in your trash cans. It does not have to be a grand gesture, just something that made your life easier, made you happy, or was just thoughtful.

If you would like to recognize their good deeds and show your appreciation, please submit your recommendation by a deadline of the 20^th day of the month prior to publication to: frontoffice@villagesofwestcreek.com.

BRIAN BUSH

Hello, fellow Villages of Westcreek Homeowners! My name is Brian Bush, and I currently serve on the Board of Directors as your Treasurer. I have lived in Westcreek for the past 5 years and continue to fall in love with the amazing people in our community.

I have been involved with the Owners' Association for the past 4 years, serving as an Alternative and then Regular Member of the ARC – Architectural Review Committee. 2 years ago, I ran for the Board, was elected, and have served as Assistant Secretary, Secretary and now Treasurer for our Community. 

I sit in a Senior Executive Leadership role for an HR Technology Company, where I have worked for the past 13 years. I hold 2 advanced degrees and several professional certifications in both HR and Payroll leadership. I also sit on a Private Board for a local San Antonio-based company. I have extensive experience working with staff, budgets, and projects – all while keeping key stakeholders up to speed. 

HR, People, and Technology are all my passions. I have used this passion to help keep Westcreek a wonderful place to call home! In the past 2 years, I have helped us navigate new (and existing) projects, realigned staffing positions in our office, updated our staff’s outdated computer systems, hired new staff members, updated policies and office hours, and overhauled our finances, all while helping us boost our reserve accounts. I could not have done so without the support of our amazing Community Staff and Volunteers. To say that I have loved being on the Board would be an understatement; I love this community and the people who call Westcreek home. 

I am humbly asking for your vote for the next two (2) years, and I promise to dedicate my time to keeping Westcreek great! I promise to do so with dignity, compassion, honesty, and trust.  

VICTOR ESTELLO

Greetings, community members! My name is Victor Estello, a dedicated community member with a passion for positive change. I am excited to express my interest in joining the Board of Directors for Villages of Westcreek. With a background in operations and analytics, I bring many skills, including leadership, strategic planning, critical thinking, and community engagement.

As a current voting member in the Architectural Review Committee (ARC), I have witnessed the incredible impact, the Board of Directors for Villages of Westcreek has had on our neighborhood, I am inspired to contribute my time and expertise to help further its mission. I believe in the power of collaboration and community-driven initiatives to create a thriving and inclusive environment for all residents.

In my previous role as a U.S. Army service member, I successfully took on several projects and initiatives, showcasing my ability to drive results and implement effective strategies. I am eager to leverage this experience to support the goals of the Villages of Westcreek and contribute to its continued success.

Joining the Board of Directors aligns with my commitment to fostering a sense of unity, addressing community needs, and advocating for positive change. I look forward to collaborating with fellow board members, residents, and stakeholders to enhance the overall well-being of our community.

Thank you for considering my candidacy. I am enthusiastic about the prospect of serving on the Board and working together to make a lasting impact on the future of Villages of Westcreek. 

Best Regards

BRANDON SCHULER

My name is Brandon Schuler; I have been living in the Villages of Westcreek for going on 5 years. I have been in the roles of ARC member and ARC Chair from 2021 to 2022 and have now been on the Board for the past 2 years.

I’m a retired Army veteran with 4 deployments under my belt. I have been part of many of the decisions of day-to-day operations that happen within the boundary of VOWC. I have 5 plus years of maintenance background that has helped us out with many of the decisions that have come across the HOA table and helped us make better decisions to save costs where we can.  

I feel that my contributions to the community have benefited us, and I will continue to serve the best welfare of the community and its residents. 

ANNUAL MEETING OF THE MEMBERS

The Annual Meeting of the Members to elect three of our Board members is scheduled for Thursday, April 18, 2024, at 6 PM in the Community Center Hall. This meeting will also be available on Zoom. While the deadline has passed to submit your nomination to appear on the written ballot to be mailed out to the homeowners or on the Electronic Voting System ballots, new nominations will be accepted at the annual meeting. Votes cast at the annual meeting will override previous absentee ballots and Electronic Voting Systems ballots.

MEET THE CANDIDATES EVENT

The "Meet the Candidates" event will be held during the Board of Directors Meeting scheduled for Thursday, March 21, 2024 at 6 PM. Also, homeowners who missed the deadline for getting on the ballot will have the opportunity to state their intentions to be nominated from the floor at the Annual Meeting of the Members in accordance with our Bylaws. Thus, this would be a good time for these individuals to let the other members of the Association know their qualifications and goals and encourage them to please consider submitting a write-in vote for him or her. This meeting will be held in person at the Community Center as well as on Zoom. The Zoom link will be sent out on Constant Contact as we get closer to that date.

Submitted by: Lynette Bradley - VWOA Board of Directors, Secretary

The Villages of Westcreek Owners' Association (VWOA) is accepting applications for pool monitors throughout the 2024 pool season. Candidates with a strong orientation toward customer service are highly encouraged to apply. Eligible applicants must be at least 16 years of age and legally authorized to work in the United States. High school students and retirees are welcome to apply. These part-time positions require availability during pool hours, between 10 am and 10 pm. The starting wage is $11.00 per hour. All Pool Monitors are required to have a cell phone. 

Applications are available at the VWOA office located at 12395 Military Drive West, San Antonio, TX 78253, during regular business hours.  

For further inquiries, please get in touch with the Activities Department at 210-679-8761 or by email at activities@villagesofwestcreek.com.

Submitted by: Melissa - VWOA Assistant Community Manager

If you're looking for ways to get involved in your community and make a difference, why not consider volunteering to serve on one of the many committees that help keep the neighborhood running smoothly? You have a wide variety, including Architectural Review, Strategic Planning, Suggestion and Recommendations, Communications, Finance, and Nomination committees, in addition to community-wide events.

To get started, contact the Villages of Westcreek Community Manager by email at cm@villagesofwestcreek.com or 210-679-8761. The Community Manager will be able to provide you with more information about the different committees and help you find the right fit for your skills and interests.

Volunteering on a committee is a great way to meet your neighbors, have a say in community decisions, and contribute to the overall well-being of the Villages of Westcreek. So don't hesitate - reach out today and see how you can make a difference in your community!

Submitted by: Melissa - VWOA Assistant Community Manager

When the weather is nice, hosting an outdoor party is a great way to enjoy the sunshine and fresh air with friends and family. However, it's important to be a considerate neighbor and minimize noise that could disturb those living nearby. Here are some tips for hosting a fun yet respectful outdoor party:

1. Let your neighbors know in advance: Informing them about the party beforehand will go a long way in making them feel respected. This will give them time to plan or make arrangements if they have sensitive pets or young children needing a quieter environment.

2. Set a reasonable time limit: It's important to be mindful of the time of day and set a reasonable time limit for the party. Keep in mind that most people work during the week and would appreciate some quiet time at night. Consider ending the party by 10 pm on weekdays and 11 pm on weekends.

3. Adjust the volume: Music is often an essential part of any party, but keeping the volume at a reasonable level is important. Keep the speakers pointed towards your house and away from the neighbors' homes. Avoid having the music or any noise going on continuously for too long.

4. Be mindful of the number of guests: Hosting a large party is great but could easily increase the noise level. Consider the size of your yard and the number of guests you can comfortably accommodate without disturbing your neighbors. 

5. Clean up after the party: Leaving the party area clean and tidy is a sign of respect for your neighbors. Ensure you clean up the trash, remove any decorations, and return any borrowed items before the night ends.

Following these simple steps, you can enjoy your outdoor party without disturbing your neighbors and ensure everyone has a good time. Remember, being a considerate neighbor is not just the right thing to do; it also helps maintain healthy and friendly relationships with those around you.

Submitted by: Andrea, Spectrum Client Relations Manager

FRAMING YOUR FUTURE AND BECOMING A POSITIVE LEADER!

Are you looking for an exciting opportunity to help your child build valuable leadership skills and make a positive impact in their community? Look no further than the Blue Star Youth Leadership Academy, now being offered for FREE for the children in the Villages of Westcreek in February 2024!

For over 20 years, the Blue Star Youth Leadership Academy has been helping young people develop the skills they need to succeed in life. This 16-week program, broken into 2 blocks of 8 weeks, is designed for children aged 13 to 16 and focuses on providing positive learning experiences to build strengths to overcome challenges faced by youth.

Your child will learn valuable leadership skills, including communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and decision-making, as well as the importance of community involvement and service. And with a safe and supportive environment, you can rest easy knowing your child will be learning and growing in the best possible way.

We urge all parents to seriously consider this program for their children. It's an incredible opportunity for young people to develop their leadership skills and make a real difference in their communities. Don't miss out on this amazing chance to give your child the tools they need to succeed!

For more information about the Blue Star Youth Leadership Academy and registering your child, please visit https://www.yiosa.org/event-details/blue-star-youth-leadership-academy-2024-02-06-18-00-1.

Click here to download the program brochure.

Take advantage of this amazing opportunity for your child!

Submitted by: Melissa - VWOA Assistant Community Manager

If you or someone you know owns a small business or food truck, we are registering vendors for our Easter Egg Hunt and pictures with The Easter Bunny March 23rd, 2024, from 2 pm - 5 pm at the VWOA Sports Park located at 12354 Military Dr. West San Antonio, TX 78253.

It is $25.00 to register for a guaranteed spot! Registration is open now and will close Thursday March 21st, 2024. To register please call the VWOA Front Office at (210) 679-8761.

Submitted by: Anysa - VWOA Lead Resident Specialist

Please join us March 23rd, 2024, from 2 pm - 5 pm for our annual pictures with The Easter Bunny, and this year....THE HUNT IS BACK!!

The Easter Egg Hunt returns to the VWOA Sports Park, 12354 Military Dr. West, San Antonio, TX 78253. This is a free event for all. We look forward to seeing everyone there!

Submitted by: Anysa - VWOA Lead Resident Specialist

The Importance of Community Involvement

As members of the Villages of Westcreek community, we all share a common goal: to make our neighborhood a better place to call home. But have you ever asked yourself, "If not me, who will step up and help make a difference?"

We often wait for somebody else to take the initiative and improve our community. But the truth is, it's up to each of us to do our part and contribute to the betterment of our neighborhood. If not you, then who?

We all have unique talents, skills, and strengths that we can utilize to impact our community positively. It doesn't matter if you're young, old, new to the neighborhood, or have been here for years. There's always something you can do to help.

You can organize a neighborhood clean-up day, volunteer at a local school, or start a community garden. You could host a block party or plan a fundraiser to support a local charity. You can join a community committee or run for the Board. The possibilities are endless, and the impact you can make is immeasurable.

So, if you've ever thought to yourself, "Why me?" or "I'm too busy," consider this: if not you, then who? Your contribution, no matter how big or small, can make a significant difference in the lives of those around you.

Let's take a step towards a better community today. Ask yourself, "If not me, who?" and then take action. Together, we can make our neighborhood a better place to call home.

Submitted by: Elaine Maurer - VWOA Board of Directors, President

WHY IT SHOULD MATTER TO MEMBERS OF AN HOA 

Fiduciary Responsibility is a legal obligation that requires HOA Board members to act in the best interests of the HOA and its members. This means that the Board members must make fair, reasonable decisions that are in the best interests of the HOA as a whole. Some examples of fiduciary responsibility include:

1. Financial Responsibility: Board members are responsible for managing the HOA's finances responsibly. This includes creating a budget, collecting assessments, paying bills, and ensuring the HOA has enough funds to cover its expenses.
2. Transparency: Board members have a responsibility to keep the members of the community informed about the decisions they make and the actions they take on behalf of the HOA. This includes holding regular meetings, providing financial reports, and responding to inquiries from the members.
3. Accountability: Board members are accountable for their actions and decisions. If a Board member acts in a way that is not in the best interests of the HOA, they can be held liable for any damages that result.

So why is fiduciary responsibility so important to the members of an HOA in Texas? For one, it helps to ensure that the community is well-managed and that the needs and interests of the members are being met. When the Board members take their fiduciary responsibility seriously, they are more likely to make decisions that benefit the community as a whole.

In addition, fiduciary responsibility helps build trust between the Board and the community members. When Board members are open and honest about their decisions, members are more likely to feel that their interests are being represented. This can lead to a stronger community and a more positive living experience for everyone involved.

Next month, we will look at how you can help the Board with their Fiduciary Responsibilities.

Submitted by: Brian Bush - VWOA Board of Directors, Treasurer

Dog owners often find themselves dealing with the issue of their furry companions digging under fences and escaping their yards. This can be a frustrating and even dangerous problem, as dogs can get lost, injured, or even hurt other animals or people while on the loose. In this article, we will explore why dogs dig under fences and what you can do to discourage your dog from escaping your yard.

Why do dogs dig under fences?

There are several reasons why dogs may dig under fences. One of the most common reasons is simply boredom. Dogs are active animals, and if they do not have enough stimulation or exercise, they may resort to digging as a way to entertain themselves. Another reason is that dogs may be trying to escape from something, such as loud noises or other animals. Additionally, some dogs may be trying to get to something on the other side of the fence, such as a squirrel or a toy.

What can you do to discourage your dog from escaping?

There are several things you can do to discourage your dog from digging under fences:

1. Provide enough exercise: Ensure your dog gets enough exercise and playtime. A tired dog is less likely to engage in destructive behaviors like digging.
2. Block the view: If your dog is digging in an attempt to get to something on the other side of the fence, you can try blocking their view. You can use privacy screens or plant bushes along the fence line to make it more difficult for your dog to see what's on the other side.
3. Reinforce the fence: You can reinforce the fence by burying chicken wire or rocks along the bottom of the fence to make it more difficult for your dog to dig. 
4. Provide distractions: Provide your dog with toys and chew bones to keep them entertained and occupied.
5. Consider training: If your dog is still digging despite your efforts, consider training. A professional dog trainer can help you teach your dog not to dig and provide them with more appropriate behaviors.

In conclusion, dogs dig under fences for various reasons, but there are ways to discourage this behavior. By providing your dog with enough exercise, blocking their view, reinforcing the fence, providing distractions, and considering training, you can help keep your furry friend safe and happy in your yard.

Submitted by: Brandon Schuler - VWOA Board of Directors, Vice President

BLANCO, TEXAS

Blanco is a small town nestled in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. It is about 58 miles NNE from the Villages of Westcreek, along US 281.



A main highlight is the Blanco State Park, one of the state’s most picturesque parks. It is one of only a few state parks with camping facilities located within a city, making supplies and small-town amenities readily available. This park offers outdoor activities such as fishing, swimming, camping, hiking, and picnicking. The park also features a beautiful river, providing ample opportunities for kayaking and canoeing.

For those interested in history and architecture, the Blanco County Courthouse is a must-see. This beautiful courthouse was built in 1885 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can take a self-guided tour and learn about its rich history. Blanco Market Day is held on the courthouse grounds 9am-4pm on the 3rd Saturday of the month, March through December.

The Buggy Barn Museum and Pine-Moore Town will take you back in time with more than 200 unique buggies, carriages and wagons dating back to the 1860s. Some of the carriages have been used in moves such as: True Grit, Lonesome Dove, Hidalgo, There Will Be Blood, Killers of the Flower Moon, and more. View the buggies and carriages used in The Son, 1883, and Revolution as well. Take in the museum and tour the Old West Town, complete with an old mercantile building, bank, saloon and a church. Admission to the museum is $8-$12 (closed Sundays).

If you're a fan of wine, Blanco has several vineyards and wineries. One of the most notable is the Real Ale Brewing Company. This brewery offers tours and tastings of their locally brewed beers, making it a great spot for beer enthusiasts. The town also has several whiskey distilleries.

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Hill Country Lavender Farm is open April 20-Dec. 16 (Thursdays-Saturdays). It’s free to visit. The Blanco Lavender Festival is held annually in June at the Farm and with a Lavender Market and other events at the Courthouse. Visitors can enjoy live music, food vendors, and even pick their own lavender.

Arnosky Family Farms grows and sells specialty fresh-cut flowers, vegetable and herb plants, potted flowers and hanging baskets. They also have barn-fresh eggs from their chickens, and local goat cheese from Pure Luck Dairy. Be sure to bring cash as the Big Blue Barn is self-service.

Finally, if you're looking for a bit of relaxation, then book a stay at one of Blanco's charming bed and breakfasts. These cozy accommodations provide the perfect setting for a relaxing weekend getaway. Twin Sisters Hall, built by German immigrants in the nineteenth century, hosts public dances on the first Saturday of every month.

Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, history buff, or simply seeking a weekend escape, Blanco has something for everyone.

Submitted by: Michelle de Jongh - VWOA Communications Committee, Secretary

There are two main types of batteries: single-use and rechargeable. Both contain toxic metals that can affect the environment and should be disposed of carefully.

Rechargeable batteries can be charged many times, so they can be used over and over. They’re found in cordless phones, smartphones, and digital cameras. Cordless power tools and similar devices use them, too. These batteries contain reactive chemicals and metals such as lithium-ion and nickel-cadmium, among others that can harm the environment if disposed of improperly.

Rechargeable 9-volt, AA, AAA, and D cell batteries for household use look like alkaline batteries, but they can be reused with compatible plug-in chargers and can be recycled. Look for battery recycling seals on rechargeable batteries. The most common places for recycling are Home Depot and Lowe’s. Home Depot partners with Call2Recycle, a nonprofit battery recycling program.  Rechargeable batteries and their chargers can be dropped off in in-store bins, or you may contact Call2Recycle to join their mail-in program.

Alkaline batteries are not accepted for recycling at the recycling centers, yet they, too, contain hazardous but valuable chemicals and metals. When single-use batteries can no longer run devices, collect used batteries in a container, such as a cardboard box or plastic tub, and even though they are no longer useful, they can still produce current. Tape 9-volt battery terminals before getting rid of them and keep them in a safe place to recycle when possible, using a Call2Recycle mail-order kit or contacting manufacturing companies that will accept them.

Button cell batteries are also known as coin batteries and are used in watches, toys, remote car starters, and other items. Button cell batteries contain silver and mercury and must be recycled. Home Depot and Lowe’s accept these for recycling, and you may also find watch repair shops that will take them.

Laptop batteries are lithium-ion batteries that are accepted at Home Depot and Lowe’s, and some office supply stores will accept them. 

Hopefully, this information serves two purposes: (1) to answer the question we all have when the batteries no longer work, “what do I do with all these batteries?” and (2) to encourage proper disposal of them to protect our environment. Face it, we can’t do without them, so let’s do the right thing.

Barbara Lee - VWOA Communications Committee, Member

How Morning Coffee Can Bring Neighbors Together

As we go about our busy lives, we often forget that human connections make life truly meaningful. In today's fast-paced world, it's more important than ever to take a break from our daily routines and connect with those around us. A straightforward way to do this is to encourage community members to have morning coffee together.

Coffee has long been a social beverage, and for good reason. It's an easy and affordable way to bring people together. Gathering for coffee in the morning allows community members to get to know each other better, share stories, and build relationships. Whether you are a long-time resident or new to the area, coffee can be a great way to connect with others in your community.

To encourage morning coffee meetups:

• Consider organizing a weekly or monthly event.
• Choose a local coffee shop or community center as the meeting place and advertise the event through social media or flyers.
• Encourage people to bring a friend or neighbor and make it clear that all are welcome.

Another option is to create a coffee club. Members can take turns hosting the group in their homes or meeting at a designated location. This can be a great way to build deeper relationships with a smaller group, allowing for more intimate conversations.

Of course, only some people are coffee drinkers. Consider offering tea, hot chocolate, or other beverages to create a more inclusive event. The goal is to create a welcoming space where people feel comfortable connecting with others.

The benefits of morning coffee meetups go beyond just building relationships. Studies have shown that social connections can positively impact our overall health and well-being. By connecting with others in our community, we can reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation and improve our mental health.

In conclusion, morning coffee meetups are a simple and effective way to create connections within our communities. By connecting with others over a cup of coffee, we can build stronger, more resilient communities that support and uplift one another. So why not give it a try? Your next enjoyable conversation could be just a cup of coffee away.

Joyce Oliver - VWOA Communications Committee, Member

Improving Lighting to Prevent Crime

As residents of the Villages of Westcreek may have noticed, there is limited lighting in certain areas of the neighborhood. This lack of lighting can create a perfect environment for criminals looking to engage in nefarious activities such as vandalism and theft. With adequate lighting, it can be easier for homeowners to prevent crime and protect their property.

The importance of lighting in crime prevention cannot be overstated. It is a deterrent to potential criminals, as they are less likely to engage in unlawful activities in well-lit areas where they may be easily spotted. Lighting also improves the chances of identifying criminals and gives residents a sense of security.

Fortunately, residents can take steps to improve the lighting around the exterior of their homes. One option is to install motion-activated outdoor lights. These lights automatically turn on when someone approaches, which can scare off potential criminals and alert homeowners to suspicious activity.

Another option is to install landscape lighting around the property. This lighting not only adds an aesthetic appeal to the home but also helps to illuminate the area, making it difficult for criminals to go unnoticed. Residents can also opt for low-voltage lighting, which is energy-efficient and provides a soft glow around the property. Residents also need to keep trees and shrubs pruned to maximize lighting around their homes.

Remember that lighting is just one aspect of effective crime prevention. Installing security cameras, securing doors and windows, and being vigilant about reporting suspicious activity are just a few measures to keep the community safe.

In conclusion, limited lighting in the Villages of Westcreek can significantly impact crime prevention. Residents can proactively improve the lighting around their homes and deter potential criminals. By working together as a community and taking the necessary precautions, residents can help create a safer and more secure neighborhood.

Submitted by: Bill Fenstermacher - VWOA Communications Committee, Vice-Chair

TIPS FOR REMOVING HARD WATER STAINS ON BRICK

If you're a homeowner in San Antonio, you may have noticed hard water stains on your exterior brick. These unsightly stains can make your home look dirty and unkempt, which is why it's important to take action to remove them.

Fortunately, several effective ways exist to remove hard water stains from exterior brick. Here are a few methods to consider:

1. Use a pressure washer: A pressure washer can effectively remove hard water stains from bricks. Use a low-pressure setting and a wide spray pattern to avoid damaging the brick. Start at the top of the wall and work your way down, rinsing the wall thoroughly with clean water when you're finished.

2. Use a vinegar solution: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the stained areas and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Scrub the area with a stiff-bristled brush, then rinse the wall with clean water.

3. Use a commercial cleaner: Several commercial cleaners are available designed to remove hard water stains from bricks. Be sure to choose a cleaner that is safe for use on brick and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.

Regardless of which method you choose, it's important to take precautions to protect your safety. Wear protective eyewear and gloves when working with cleaners or a pressure washer, and use a sturdy ladder if you need to reach high areas.

By removing hard water stains from your exterior brick, you can improve the appearance of your home and help protect the longevity of your brickwork. With a little effort and the right tools, you can easily tackle this common problem.

Submitted by: Bill Fenstermacher - VWOA Communications Committee, Vice-Chair

INTRODUCING YOUR CHILDREN TO SENSORY GARDENING

Introducing your children to the joys of gardening can be a fun and educational experience, and one way to do this is by planting a sensory garden.

A sensory garden is a garden that is designed to engage all five senses and can help children explore and learn about the natural world around them.

In the San Antonio, Texas, area, there are many opportunities to create a sensory garden with the different textures, colors, and scents in the local flora. Here are some tips for getting started:

1. Choose the right plants: When selecting plants for your sensory garden, choose various plants with different textures, colors, and scents. Consider plants like lavender, mint, and rosemary for their fragrant scents and plants like lamb's ear, succulents, and ferns for their exciting textures.

2. Plan your garden layout: Depending on the size of your garden, you may want to section it off into different areas for different sensory experiences. For example, you could have a section for fragrant plants, a section for plants with interesting textures, and a section for bright colors.

3. Get your children involved: Involve them in the planning and planting process and encourage them to take ownership of the garden. Let them help choose the plants, and have them help with planting and watering the garden.

4. Make it interactive: To make your sensory garden even more engaging, consider adding interactive elements like wind chimes, bird feeders, or even a water feature. These elements can help children connect with nature and learn about the different creatures that inhabit the garden.

5. Take time to enjoy: Once your sensory garden is planted, enjoy it with your children. Encourage them to explore the different plants and textures and teach them about the benefits of gardening and spending time outdoors.

In conclusion, planting a sensory garden in the San Antonio, Texas, area can be an excellent way to introduce your children to the joys of gardening and the natural world. With the right plants, layout, and interactive elements, your sensory garden can be a fun and educational experience for the whole family.

Submitted by: Coral Fathy - VWOA Communications Committee, Member

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