By: Velda Tiblets
I was born and raised in San Angelo, TX. My dad worked for the railroad so he was transferred to Slaton in the panhandle for three years when I was seven. The flat land and sandstorms that blocked out the sun increased my appreciation for San Angelo. Its muddy rivers and lakes, mesquite and cactus thickets seemed like an oasis when we moved back.
My mother grew up on a ranch in San Saba County, and the ranch is still in the family. As a kid we spent a lot of time playing in the creek, climbing the bluff, and exploring the fields. It was always the best of times with our cousins. It made the land important to us, and it instilled in us a desire to conserve it for the next generation.
Charles and I have been married for 38 years.s We moved a couple of times before we landed in our “forever home” here in Gordon. I was a primary care nurse for 25 years. I was fortunate to experience the full range of primary care in pediatrics, internal medicine and family practice, each with its challenges and rewards. I retired from nursing in 2019, just before COVID.
I enjoy our family farm here in Gordon. After years of working in an office I am so happy to be outside. I was excited when I discovered the Master Naturalist program because it was all about being outside. The opportunities to learn more about our state’s many diverse ecosystems while having fun is a win all around. Charles and I enjoy packing up our RV with supplies and our dogs and heading out. We are going to try to make all the Texas State Parks and a few in other states for comparison. So far, Texas is winning. We’re sprinkling in a few of the National Parks along the way for good measure. It is all about exploring the beauty we don’t always take time to appreciate.